05.144
Vaiśampāyana spoke:
Then Karna heard the affectionate and formidable speech that emerged from the sun, spoken by Bhaskara as if he were a father.
Kunti spoke truthfully, 'O Karna, follow your mother's advice. It would be better for you, O great warrior, to act accordingly.'
Despite being urged by his mother, father, and Bhanu, Karna's resolve, firm in truth, remained unwavering.
Karna spoke:
I do not believe your words spoken to a warrior by you; this may be my gateway to righteousness through your assignment.
You have committed a great sin against me, causing a great disaster. I am disgraced by you, and that act is the destroyer of fame and glory.
I was born a warrior but have not received the honor due to one. What worse harm could an enemy do to me for your sake?
Today, at the time of action, without showing compassion, you have hurt me in this period of low refinement.
You did not act for my welfare like a mother before. Now, she enlightens me, being solely a well-wisher of herself.
Who would not be troubled by Arjuna when he is with Krishna? Who today would not recognize me as having gone to the assembly of the Pandavas?
Previously known as brotherless and revealed during the time of war, if I go to the Pandavas, what will the Kshatriya say to me?
How could I, who is always excessively worshipped and fulfilled with all desires, make the efforts of the sons of Dhritarashtra fruitless?
Those who have bound enmity by others and always worship and salute me, just as the Vasus do to Indra.
Today, those who are capable of opposing enemies with my life, wonder how I might shatter their hopes.
With my help, they wish to cross the difficult battle. How can I abandon those who wish to cross the boundless ocean?
Indeed, the time has come for me to act upon the dependents of Dhritarashtra without regard for their lives.
Those who are successful and well-nourished act appropriately when the time for action arrives, while the evil ones, being unstable, act wrongly without consideration.
For those who have committed sins against the king and have stolen offerings meant for the husband, there is no existence in this world or any other for the evil-doers.
I will fight with your sons for the sake of Dhritarashtra's sons, relying on strength and power. Indeed, I do not speak falsehood to you.
Then, protecting conduct that is kind and befitting a noble person; therefore, even though it is beneficial, I do not follow your words today.
However, your efforts will not be wasted on me. I will spare your sons in battle, except for Yudhishthira, Bhima, the twins, and Arjuna.
An equal battle with Arjuna is mine in the strength of Yudhishthira. Indeed, if I slay Arjuna in battle, I would attain the desired outcome. Even if slain by the ambidextrous one, I would be joined with fame.
O illustrious one, your five sons will never perish, regardless of whether they are without Arjuna, with Karna, or with Arjuna, even if I am slain.
Vaiśampāyana spoke:
Upon hearing Karna's words, Kunti, trembling with sorrow, embraced her son Karna and spoke with unwavering courage.
Thus, indeed, the Kauravas will meet their destruction by this means, as you say, Karna, but fate is stronger.
O tormentor of enemies, you have given fearlessness to the four brothers; now promise their release from battle.
Pṛthā then spoke to Karṇa, wishing him well-being and freedom from illness. Karṇa, pleased with her words, replied, and then they both went their separate ways.
