Chapter 20: Pāṇḍu’s death and Mādrī’s following him; Kuntī and the Pāṇḍavas return to Hastināpura, funeral rites are performed, and Satyavatī retires to the forest with Ambikā and Ambālikā.
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_1]
Then, in the great forest on the mountain, Pandu delighted in watching his five handsome sons, whom he protected by the strength of his own arms. (BORI: 1-116-1)
[PV-KDV:01_020_2]
Once, in the season of Madhu and Madhava, when the forest was in full bloom and all creatures were spellbound, the king roamed the woods with his wife. (BORI: 1-116-2)
[PV-KDV:01_020_3]
with palasha, tilaka, mango, champak, and paribhadra trees, and many other trees laden with fruit and flowers... (BORI: 1-116-3)
[PV-PAN:01_020_4]
When Pandu saw the forest adorned with various pools and lotus ponds, desire arose in his heart. (BORI: 1-116-4)
[PV-PAN:01_020_5]
As he wandered there with a joyful heart, like an immortal, Madri followed him alone, wearing a beautiful garment. (BORI: 1-116-5)
[PV-KDV:01_020_6]
As he gazed at the young woman in her thin garment, his desire grew like a fire springing up in a thicket. (BORI: 1-116-6)
[PV-PAN:01_020_7]
Seeing her alone, as dear to him as his own self, the lotus-eyed king, overpowered by desire, could not restrain his passion. (BORI: 1-116-7)
[PV-KDV:01_020_8]
Then the king forcibly seized her when she was alone, though the queen resisted and struggled with all her strength. (BORI: 1-116-8)
[PV-KDV:01_020_9]
But his mind overwhelmed by desire, he gave no thought to that curse as he approached Madri for intercourse, as if by force… (BORI: 1-116-9)
[PV-KDV:01_020_10]
The Kaurava, overcome by passion, cast aside his fear of the curse and forced himself upon his beloved, bringing his life to an end. (BORI: 1-116-10)
[PV-KDV:01_020_11]
His reason, consumed by desire and deluded by Death himself, overwhelmed all his senses and vanished together with his consciousness. (BORI: 1-116-11)
[PV-KDV:01_020_12]
After uniting with his wife, O delight of the Kurus, the supremely righteous Pandu succumbed to death. (BORI: 1-116-12)
[PV-KDV:01_020_13]
Then Madri embraced the lifeless king and again and again uttered exceedingly anguished cries. (BORI: 1-116-13)
[PV-PAN:01_020_14]
Then Kunti and her sons, together with the two Pandavas who were Madri’s sons, came to the place where the king lay in that state. (BORI: 1-116-14)
[PV-KDV:01_020_15]
Then, O king, the anguished Madri said these words to Kunti: “Come here alone. Let the children remain right here.” (BORI: 1-116-15)
[PV-KDV:01_020_16]
Hearing her words, Kunti held the children back there and, crying out, “I am undone!” rushed over. (BORI: 1-116-16)
[PV-KDV:01_020_17]
Seeing Pandu and Madri lying on the ground, Kunti, her whole body overwhelmed by grief, lamented in deep sorrow. (BORI: 1-116-17)
[PV-PAN:01_020_18]
Ever guarded by me, O hero, and always self-controlled, how did you transgress the forest-dweller’s curse, knowing of it? (BORI: 1-116-18)
[PV-PAX:01_020_19]
Surely, Madri, the king should have been protected by you. How then did you tempt the lord of men when you were alone with him? (BORI: 1-116-19)
[PV-PAX:01_020_20]
How did joy arise in him when, ever despondent and mindful of that curse, he found you alone in a secluded place? (BORI: 1-116-20)
[PV-PAX:01_020_21]
You are blessed, Bāhlīkī, and more fortunate than I, for you have seen the face of the delighted king. (BORI: 1-116-21)
[PV-PAX:01_020_22]
Mādrī said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_23]
Though I tempted him and repeatedly tried to restrain him, he did not control himself, wishing to make what was ordained come true. (BORI: 1-116-22)
[PV-KDV:01_020_24]
Kunti said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_25]
I am the senior lawful wife, and the highest reward of righteousness is mine. Madri, do not turn me away from what must inevitably come to pass. (BORI: 1-116-23)
[PV-KDV:01_020_26]
I shall follow our husband here, now that he has passed into the power of death. Rise, release him, and look after these children. (BORI: 1-116-24)
[PV-KDV:01_020_27]
Mādrī said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_28]
I myself shall follow my husband, the steadfast/non-fleeing one. (BORI: 1-116-25A)
[PV-KDV:01_020_29]
For I am not satisfied in my desires; therefore let the elder lady give her consent. (BORI: 1-116-25B)
[PV-PAN:01_020_30]
Having approached me, this best of the Bharatas was spent/overcome through desire. (BORI: 1-116-26A)
[PV-KDV:01_020_31]
How indeed could I bring/end that desire of his in Yama's abode? (BORI: 1-116-26B)
[PV-PAN:01_020_32]
Nor could I go on living, noble lady, treating your sons without distinction; for in that case sin would attach to me. (BORI: 1-116-27)
[PV-KDV:01_020_33]
Therefore, Kunti, you must treat my two sons as your own, for this king died while desiring me. (BORI: 1-116-28)
[PV-KDV:01_020_34]
Let this body of mine also be burned together with the king’s body, well covered. Noble lady, do me this kindness. (BORI: 1-116-29)
[PV-KDV:01_020_35]
Be vigilant in caring for the children and act for my good. Beyond this, I see nothing else that needs to be asked of you. (BORI: 1-116-30)
[PV-KDV:01_020_36]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_37]
Having said this, the illustrious daughter of the king of Madra, his lawful wife, swiftly mounted the funeral pyre after that bull among men. (BORI: 1-116-31)
[PV-KDV:01_020_38]
When the wise Phalguna’s fourteenth year was complete … (KUMB: 1-134-11)
[PV-SVO:01_020_39]
and when the benediction ceremony for that wise man began under that same lunar mansion, Uttara Phalguni, in which Partha had been born… (KUMB: 1-134-12)
[PV-SVO:01_020_40]
Distracted by feeding the Brahmins, Kunti forgot to keep watch and served the Brahmins who were gathered with the priest. (KUMB: 1-134-13)
[PV-SVO:01_020_41]
Then, in the eighteenth year, during her fertile season, the illustrious Pandu, his mind overwhelmed, summoned the adorned princess of Madra. (KUMB: 1-134-21)
[PV-SVO:01_020_42]
Hearing those words of hers, Kunti, set ablaze by the fire of grief, suddenly fell to the ground like a tree cut off at the roots. (KUMB: 1-134-37)
[PV-SVO:01_020_43]
She lay motionless on the ground and did not stir, overcome by stupor. At that moment, bathed and wrapped in fresh garments... (KUMB: 1-134-38)
[PV-SVO:01_020_44]
Pāṇḍu, adorned and lying on a beautiful bed; Mādrī then raised Kuntī, whose mind was overcome by stupor… (KUMB: 1-134-39)
[PV-SVO:01_020_45]
Saying, “Noble lady, come,” she showed him to Kunti, O Kaurava. Kunti fell at his feet and then rose again—the king… (KUMB: 1-134-40)
[PV-SVO:01_020_46]
the descendant of Bharata, his body anointed with red sandalwood, clad in crimson garments, and seeming to speak with a smile on his face… (KUMB: 1-134-41)
[PV-SVO:01_020_47]
Then, embracing him, she lamented in bewilderment, her senses overwhelmed; Madri too embraced the king and lamented. (KUMB: 1-134-42)
[PV-SVO:01_020_48]
His sons, the seers, and the Charanas all approached him as he lay there and shed tears of grief. (KUMB: 1-134-43)
[PV-SVO:01_020_49]
Seeing Pandu, tiger among men, like the sun that had set and the ocean run dry, the great seers grieved. (KUMB: 1-134-44)
[PV-SVO:01_020_50]
The seers and the Pandavas were equally grief-stricken. Consoled by the Brahmins, the two blameless women lamented: (KUMB: 1-134-45)
[PV-SVO:01_020_51]
Alas, king! To whom do you leave us as you go to the abode of the gods? Alas, king! How indeed, after uniting with Madri, could you leave wretched me… (KUMB: 1-134-46)
[PV-SVO:01_020_52]
did you meet your death, O king, because my good fortune was utterly exhausted? Yudhishthira, Bhimasena, Arjuna, and both twins— (KUMB: 1-134-47)
[PV-SVO:01_020_53]
In whose care have you left your beloved sons and departed, O lord of peoples? Surely the gods of heaven welcome you, O Bharata. (KUMB: 1-134-48)
[PV-SVO:01_020_54]
For since you have indeed practiced severe austerity in the company of Brahmins, O king, you will go with us both to the blessed heaven. (KUMB: 1-134-49)
[PV-SVO:01_020_55]
O descendant of Ajamidha, “Surely I shall go with you both to the destiny of the descendants of Ajamidha who act according to duty”—what you… (KUMB: 1-134-50)
[PV-SVO:01_020_56]
—was what you promised, O best of the Kurus, when I came to the forest. You will go accompanied by us both, O lord of the people. Wait a moment, O king, and I too shall look upon your face. (KUMB: 1-134-51)
[PV-SVO:01_020_57]
After lamenting bitterly, the two fell unconscious to the ground, like two does in the forest when their stag has been killed by hunters. (KUMB: 1-134-52)
[PV-SVO:01_020_58]
All the Pandavas, led by Yudhishthira and learned in the Vedas, came to their father’s feet and fell unconscious to the ground. (KUMB: 1-134-53)
[PV-SVO:01_020_59]
Embracing Pāṇḍu’s feet, the Pāṇḍavas lamented: “Alas, Father, we are lost! Alas, we are becoming orphans!” (KUMB: 1-134-54)
[PV-SVO:01_020_60]
Without you, O greatly wise one, how can we children live? We are the sons of the lord of the world, yet we have no protector. (KUMB: 1-134-55)
[PV-SVO:01_020_61]
In but a moment, O great king—ah, how strange are the ways of the world! O Bharata, no princes are as unfortunate as we are. (KUMB: 1-134-56)
[PV-SVO:01_020_62]
Because of your death, O lord of kings, and the consequent loss of the kingdom, the Pāṇḍavas and all of us fell into great distress. (KUMB: 1-134-57)
[PV-SVO:01_020_63]
“What shall we do, O king? Please tell us what must be done.” Bhimasena said, “By you, who abandoned the kingdom and its pleasures and lived on Mount Shatashringa…” (KUMB: 1-134-58; KUMB: 1-134-58क्ष्)
[PV-SVO:01_020_64]
O lord of kings, you gained us through great austerity. Renouncing your pride and going to the forest, you personally gathered food... (KUMB: 1-134-59)
[PV-SVO:01_020_65]
You have indeed maintained us with wild greens, roots, and fruits. Having begotten sons, great-souled fathers desire that… (KUMB: 1-134-60)
[PV-SVO:01_020_66]
The time has now come for those who desire the fruits of the three aims of life. O King, descendant of Bharata, you should not depart without enjoying that fruit. (KUMB: 1-134-61)
[PV-SVO:01_020_67]
Having spoken thus to his father, Bhima too lamented. (KUMB: 1-134-62)
[PV-SVO:01_020_68]
The Bharata line, which had died out, was restored by Pandu. When he then withdrew to the forest, the kingless realm fell into ruin. (KUMB: 1-134-63)
[PV-SVO:01_020_69]
Royal power was restored once more by the five sons of Pandu. Having heard this and approved it, you should depart, Shankara. (KUMB: 1-134-64)
[PV-SVO:01_020_70]
Having thus addressed his father, Dhanañjaya lamented. The twins said, “After performing unbearable austerities and obtaining us, O bull of the Bharatas…” (KUMB: 1-134-65; KUMB: 1-134-65क्ष्)
[PV-SVO:01_020_71]
You have gained none of the fruits of the great blessing of having sons, such as their devoted service, just as Daśaratha did not in former times. (KUMB: 1-134-66)
[PV-SVO:01_020_72]
Having spoken thus, the two grief-stricken twins also began to lament. (KUMB: 1-134-67)
[PV-SVO:01_020_73]
Having obtained sons who have achieved their aims, I seek the status of a hero’s wife. (KUMB: 1-134-70)
[PV-SVO:01_020_74]
For it was on my account that this king, the foremost of royal seers, was slain. I do not possess such wisdom, nor are my kinsmen of such a kind. (KUMB: 1-134-73)
[PV-SVO:01_020_75]
I cannot bear to remain alive, bereft of my husband. Therefore I shall follow him as he goes to the abode of Vaivasvata. (KUMB: 1-134-74)
[PV-SVO:01_020_76]
After consoling those truly valiant Pandavas, as well as Kunti and Madri, the ascetic sages said: (KUMB: 1-134-79)
[PV-SVO:01_020_77]
O fortunate lady, you have young sons and must by no means die. We shall also take the Pandavas, those scorchers of foes, to the Kuru realm. (KUMB: 1-134-80)
[PV-SVO:01_020_78]
Dhritarashtra, moreover, is greedy in wrongful matters of wealth; he may one day fail to treat the Pandavas properly. (KUMB: 1-134-81)
[PV-SVO:01_020_79]
Kuntī has the Vṛṣṇis as her protectors, as well as Kuntibhoja; and Mādrī’s brother Śalya is the foremost of the mighty and a great chariot-warrior. (KUMB: 1-134-82)
[PV-SVO:01_020_80]
But dying together with one’s husband is fruitful—of this there is no doubt. Yet the foremost brahmins say that this would be difficult for you both. (KUMB: 1-134-83)
[PV-SVO:01_020_81]
After her husband’s death, a good and virtuous woman who remains under a vow of celibacy, purified by restraints and observances of mind, speech, and body… (KUMB: 1-134-84)
[PV-SVO:01_020_82]
Thinking of her husband, that virtuous woman would deliver him; her husband would be saved, as would she herself and her son. (KUMB: 1-134-85)
[PV-SVO:01_020_83]
Therefore, we consider this very life best for you both. (KUMB: 1-134-86)
[PV-SVO:01_020_84]
I have placed upon my head the command of Pandu, as well as that of the company of Brahmins, and I shall act accordingly. (KUMB: 1-134-87)
[PV-SVO:01_020_85]
Whatever you venerable ones say, I consider supremely good for my husband, my sons, and myself—of this there is no doubt. (KUMB: 1-134-88)
[PV-SVO:01_020_86]
Kunti is capable of safeguarding her sons’ welfare. Even Arundhati, were she here, would not equal her in wisdom. (KUMB: 1-134-89)
[PV-SVO:01_020_87]
The Vrishnis are Kunti’s protectors, as is Kuntibhoja; and I am not as capable as you are of caring for the sons. (KUMB: 1-134-90)
[PV-SVO:01_020_88]
Since I was not sated by our lovemaking, I shall follow my husband. May the senior queen of our husband’s household grant me permission. (KUMB: 1-134-91)
[PV-SVO:01_020_89]
I shall attend upon the feet of that wise man who knows righteousness, is grateful, and is true to his word. Therefore, may my noble lady grant me leave today. (KUMB: 1-134-92)
[PV-SVO:01_020_90]
Having spoken thus, O king, the lovely Mādrī, daughter of the king of Madra, bowed her head and entrusted the twins to Kuntī. (KUMB: 1-134-93)
[PV-SVO:01_020_91]
After paying homage to the great seers, embracing the Pandavas, and repeatedly kissing Pritha’s sons and her own two sons on the head, she then… (KUMB: 1-134-94)
[PV-SVO:01_020_92]
Taking Yudhishthira by the hand, Madri said, “Kunti is your mother, and I am your nurse; but your father is dead.” (KUMB: 1-134-95)
[PV-SVO:01_020_93]
Yudhishthira is always, by right, both father and eldest brother to the four. Those devoted to serving their elders and wholly committed to truth and righteousness... (KUMB: 1-134-96)
[PV-SVO:01_020_94]
People such as these do not perish or suffer defeat. Therefore, all of you must tirelessly conduct yourselves toward your elders as toward teachers. (KUMB: 1-134-97)
[PV-SVO:01_020_95]
Then Mādrī, wretched with anguish, repeatedly bowed to the seers and to Pṛthā and replied to Pṛthā: (KUMB: 1-134-98)
[PV-SVO:01_020_96]
May these words, as uttered in the presence of the sages, not prove fruitless for me, who longs to behold heaven. (KUMB: 1-134-99)
[PV-SVO:01_020_97]
Blessed are you, O Vārṣṇeyī; no woman is your equal. The valor, splendor, power, greatness, and glory of the illustrious… (KUMB: 1-134-100)
[PV-SVO:01_020_98]
Kunti, in your five sons of immeasurable vigor, you will see… You are noble, worthy of homage, and in every way deserving of my reverence. (KUMB: 1-134-101)
[PV-SVO:01_020_99]
O goddess, you are the elder and the foremost, adorned with your own noble virtues. I wish to receive your permission, O Yāvanandinī. (KUMB: 1-134-102)
[PV-SVO:01_020_100]
For your sake, may I attain righteousness, heaven, and fame. Arrange matters here in whatever way is necessary, and do not hesitate. (KUMB: 1-134-103)
[PV-SVO:01_020_101]
Her voice choked with tears, the illustrious Kunti said, “You have my leave, noble lady. May you be reunited in heaven…” (KUMB: 1-134-104)
[PV-SVO:01_020_102]
O wide-eyed beauty, may you be reunited with your husband this very day and rejoice in heaven for everlasting years. (KUMB: 1-134-105)
[PV-SVO:01_020_103]
Then the priest, an expert in funeral rites, having bathed—pieces of gold, ghee, sesame seeds, curds, and rice... (KUMB: 1-134-106)
[PV-SVO:01_020_104]
having gathered the water jars and the axe with the ascetics’ help, and having fetched the Aśvamedha fire, in full accordance with prescribed procedure… (KUMB: 1-134-107)
[PV-SVO:01_020_105]
Kashyapa had that rite performed for the deceased Pandu. Following the procedure prescribed by the priest, Pandu’s son Yudhishthira… (KUMB: 1-134-108)
[PV-SVO:01_020_106]
With that fire, the Pandava cremated Pandu and performed the rites. Then, weeping and tormented by grief, he fell to the ground. (KUMB: 1-134-109)
[PV-SVO:01_020_107]
Clad in a new garment, the blameless one, together with his brothers, offered water there in accordance with the priest’s instructions. (KUMB: 1-134-112)
[PV-SVO:01_020_108]
The ascetics and Charanas, together with the rishis, duly performed the rites for that worthy resident of Shatashringa. (KUMB: 1-134-113)
[PV-SVO:01_020_109]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_110]
After performing Pāṇḍu’s final rites, the godlike great seers, those ascetics, assembled and deliberated. (BORI: 1-117-1)
[PV-KDV:01_020_111]
Having abandoned his kingdom and realm, that great-souled man of mighty austerities sought refuge among the ascetics in this place in order to practice austerities. (BORI: 1-117-2)
[PV-KDV:01_020_112]
King Pandu entrusted to you here, as a sacred charge, his newborn sons and his wives, and then departed for heaven. (BORI: 1-117-3)
[PV-KDV:01_020_113]
After consulting one another, they, devoted to the welfare of all beings, with Pāṇḍu’s sons at their head, toward the city called Nāgasāhvaya… (BORI: 1-117-4)
[PV-KDV:01_020_114]
The noble-minded ascetics resolved to go and entrust the Pandavas to Bhishma and Dhritarashtra. (BORI: 1-117-5)
[PV-KDV:01_020_115]
At that very moment, all the ascetics set out, taking with them Pandu’s wives and sons, as well as his body. (BORI: 1-117-6)
[PV-KDV:01_020_116]
She, who had once been happy and was ever devoted to her sons, embarked on the long journey but thought it short. (BORI: 1-117-7)
[PV-KDV:01_020_117]
Before long, the illustrious woman reached Kurujangala and came to the gate of Vardhamanapura. (BORI: 1-117-8)
[PV-KDV:01_020_118]
When the people of Nagapura heard of the arrival of those thousands of wandering sages, they were filled with wonder. (BORI: 1-117-9)
[PV-KDV:01_020_119]
When the sun had been up for a short while, all the townspeople, with righteousness foremost in their minds, set out with their wives to see the ascetics. (BORI: 1-117-10)
[PV-KDV:01_020_120]
Groups of women and Kshatriyas, riding in companies of vehicles, set out with the Brahmins; the Brahmins’ wives went as well. (BORI: 1-117-11)
[PV-KDV:01_020_121]
Likewise, there was a great mingling of the groups of Vaishyas and Shudras. No one felt envy; they were all righteous-minded. (BORI: 1-117-12)
[PV-KDV:01_020_122]
Likewise Bhishma, son of Shantanu; Somadatta; Bahlika; the royal sage whose wisdom was his sight; and Vidura himself, the chamberlain… (BORI: 1-117-13)
[PV-KDV:01_020_123]
The queen Satyavati, the illustrious Kausalya, and Gandhari, surrounded by the royal ladies, came out. (BORI: 1-117-14)
[PV-KDV:01_020_124]
Dhritarashtra’s hundred heirs, led by Duryodhana and adorned with splendid ornaments, came forth. (BORI: 1-117-15)
[PV-KDV:01_020_125]
After bowing their heads to all those great sages, all the Kauravas, together with their priests, sat down nearby. (BORI: 1-117-16)
[PV-KDV:01_020_126]
Likewise, all the townspeople and country folk bowed their heads to the ground in reverence and then took their seats. (BORI: 1-117-17)
[PV-KDV:01_020_127]
Seeing that the entire multitude was utterly silent, Bhishma then presented the kingdom and the realm to the great seers. (BORI: 1-117-18)
[PV-KDV:01_020_128]
Then the eldest among them, a great seer wearing matted locks and a deerskin, rose, ascertained the opinion of the great seers, and said: (BORI: 1-117-19)
[PV-KDV:01_020_129]
That heir of the Kauravas, the king named Pandu, renounced sensual pleasures and went from here to Shatashringa. (BORI: 1-117-20)
[PV-KDV:01_020_130]
While he observed the vow of celibacy, this son of his, Yudhishthira, was born directly from Dharma through divine agency. (BORI: 1-117-21)
[PV-KDV:01_020_131]
Likewise, Mātariśvan gave that great-souled king this son, Bhīma by name, mighty in strength and foremost among the powerful. (BORI: 1-117-22)
[PV-KDV:01_020_132]
This man of unfailing valor was born to Kunti by Puruhuta; his fame will surpass that of all great archers. (BORI: 1-117-23)
[PV-KDV:01_020_133]
And these two mighty bowmen, foremost of the Kurus, whom Mādrī bore by the Aśvins—these two tigers among men also stand here. (BORI: 1-117-24)
[PV-KDV:01_020_134]
By the illustrious Pandu, ever devoted to righteousness, who lived in exile in the forest, this ancestral lineage was restored. (BORI: 1-117-25)
[PV-KDV:01_020_135]
As Pandu continually watched his sons’ birth and growth and their study of the Vedas, his abiding joy increased. (BORI: 1-117-26)
[PV-KDV:01_020_136]
Living according to the ways of the virtuous and having gained sons, Pandu went to the realm of the ancestors seventeen days later. (BORI: 1-117-27)
[PV-KDV:01_020_137]
Knowing that he had been placed on the funeral pyre and offered into the mouth of the fire, Madri entered the flames, relinquishing her own life. (BORI: 1-117-28)
[PV-KDV:01_020_138]
Devoted to her husband, she has gone with him to his world. Then let whatever must be done for her and for him be performed. (BORI: 1-117-29)
[PV-KDV:01_020_139]
Here are the bodies of those two, and here are their noble sons. Let these scorchers of foes, together with their mother, be received with the proper rites. (BORI: 1-117-30)
[PV-KDV:01_020_140]
And when the rites for the dead are complete, may the illustrious Pāṇḍu, knower of every duty and upholder of the Kuru line, receive the ancestral rites. (BORI: 1-117-31)
[PV-KDV:01_020_141]
Having thus addressed all the Kurus, all the Charanas vanished in an instant before the Kurus’ very eyes, together with the Guhyakas. (BORI: 1-117-32)
[PV-KDV:01_020_142]
Seeing the host of seers and Siddhas, which resembled a city of Gandharvas, vanish there once again, they were filled with the utmost amazement. (BORI: 1-117-33)
[PV-PAN:01_020_143]
Let us take the body, wife, and these sons of that great-hearted man back to their kingdom, for this is held to be our duty. (KUMB: 1-135-4; NILA: 01.126.004)
[PV-SVO:01_020_144]
The ascetics said to the doorkeeper, “Inform the king.” They then went and were announced in the assembly within moments. (KUMB: 1-135-10; NILA: 01.126.010)
[PV-SVO:01_020_145]
After duly honoring them with water for washing their feet and a respectful offering, O lord… (KUMB: 1-135-20; NILA: 01.126.020)
[PV-SVO:01_020_146]
The king renounced worldly pleasures and became an ascetic. Subsisting on leaves, roots, and fruit, he practiced austerities as prescribed. (KUMB: 1-135-23)
[PV-SVO:01_020_147]
For some time, the righteous man remained tireless together with his two wives. Through that ascetic’s conduct and observances, and through his austerity... (KUMB: 1-135-24)
[PV-SVO:01_020_148]
The ascetics dwelling there on Shatashringa were pleased; restraining him when he wished to go to heaven, they… (KUMB: 1-135-25)
[PV-SVO:01_020_149]
As he was setting out with his two wives, the Brahmins said to him, “O king of kings, no blessed worlds await you, for you are childless.” (KUMB: 1-135-26)
[PV-SVO:01_020_150]
Therefore, O king of kings, worship Dharma, Vāyu, Mahendra, and the Aśvins together with your wives. (KUMB: 1-135-27)
[PV-SVO:01_020_151]
Pleased, the deities will grant you sons, and you will be freed from your debt. Through austerity, and because we possess divine sight, we can see those sons of yours. (KUMB: 1-135-28)
[PV-SVO:01_020_152]
Then, having heard our words, she propitiated the gods. (KUMB: 1-135-29)
[PV-SVO:01_020_153]
When this mighty archer was born, Indra said to Pritha, “Kunti, through my grace this son has been born, one whose valor is true—” (KUMB: 1-135-32)
[PV-SVO:01_020_154]
He will conquer even unconquerable foes, beginning with the gods—there is no doubt of it. (KUMB: 1-135-33)
[PV-SVO:01_020_155]
Through his brothers’ prowess, Yudhishthira will perform the Rājasūya sacrifice. This hero will conquer all men, Gandharvas, and Rākṣasas. (KUMB: 1-135-34)
[PV-SVO:01_020_156]
He will conquer Duryodhana and the other Kauravas. Through the exploits of this hero, Yudhishthira, Dharma’s son… (KUMB: 1-135-35)
[PV-SVO:01_020_157]
will perform sacrifices beginning with the Rājasūya, always holding dharma alone supreme. (KUMB: 1-135-36)
[PV-SVO:01_020_158]
Nakula and Sahadeva too, those two of immeasurable splendor… (KUMB: 1-135-37)
[PV-SVO:01_020_159]
May they both duly accept Pṛthā, who has sought refuge, and the illustrious Pāṇḍavas, for this is the eternal law. (KUMB: 1-135-43)
[PV-SVO:01_020_160]
Dhritarashtra said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_161]
Vidura, have all the funeral rites of Pandu, that lion among kings, performed in royal fashion, and especially those of Madri as well. (BORI: 1-118-1)
[PV-KDV:01_020_162]
For Pandu and Madri, give cattle, garments, jewels, and various kinds of wealth to whomever and in whatever measure is desired. (BORI: 1-118-2)
[PV-PAN:01_020_163]
Show Madri the same honor that Kunti would, and keep her so well covered that neither the wind nor the sun may see her. (BORI: 1-118-3)
[PV-KDV:01_020_164]
The blameless Pandu is not to be mourned; that king is worthy of praise, for he has five heroic sons, equal to the sons of the gods. (BORI: 1-118-4)
[PV-KDV:01_020_165]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_166]
Vidura agreed to this and, together with Bhishma, had Pandu’s funeral rites performed in a very secluded place, O Bharata. (BORI: 1-118-5)
[PV-KDV:01_020_167]
Then Pandu’s royal priests swiftly carried the blazing fires out of the city, preceded by offerings of clarified butter. (BORI: 1-118-6)
[PV-KDV:01_020_168]
Then, after covering him completely with cloth, they adorned the bier with seasonal perfumes and various splendid garlands. (BORI: 1-118-7)
[PV-PAX:01_020_169]
The ministers, relatives, and friends gathered around the bier, thus adorned with garlands and costly fabrics. (BORI: 1-118-8)
[PV-PAX:01_020_170]
They bore that lion among men together with Madri, completely covered, on a splendidly adorned, man-drawn conveyance of the finest kind. (BORI: 1-118-9)
[PV-PAX:01_020_171]
Then they adorned him with a white parasol, a yak-tail fan, and the music of every kind of instrument. (BORI: 1-118-10)
[PV-PAX:01_020_172]
Taking up many hundreds of jewels, the men gave them there to all who desired them as offerings for Pandu’s funeral rites. (BORI: 1-118-11)
[PV-PAX:01_020_173]
Then they brought fine white parasols, large and pale, and splendid garments for the Kaurava. (BORI: 1-118-12)
[PV-PAX:01_020_174]
The sacrificial fires, into which white-robed priests were pouring oblations, went blazing before him, beautifully adorned. (BORI: 1-118-13)
[PV-KDV:01_020_175]
Thousands of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, weeping and overcome with grief, followed the king. (BORI: 1-118-14)
[PV-PAX:01_020_176]
Where will this king, our supreme protector, go after abandoning us, consigning us to unending sorrow, and leaving us without a protector? (BORI: 1-118-15)
[PV-PAX:01_020_177]
All the Pandavas, Bhishma, and Vidura, lamenting aloud, at a delightful woodland spot on the fair, level bank of the Ganges… (BORI: 1-118-16)
[PV-PAX:01_020_178]
Then those truthful men had the bier bearing Pāṇḍu, the tireless lion among men, together with his wife, set down. (BORI: 1-118-17)
[PV-PAX:01_020_179]
Then his body, perfumed with every fragrance, anointed with pure kālīyaka and scented with the finest bathing essences, was quickly sprinkled with water from golden jars. (BORI: 1-118-18)
[PV-PAX:01_020_180]
They anointed him with the finest white sandalwood paste, blended with black aloe and fragrant resin. (BORI: 1-118-19)
[PV-PAX:01_020_181]
Then they arrayed him in white garments made in his own country. Covered with those garments, that tiger among men—the best of men, accustomed to a costly couch—shone as though alive. (BORI: 1-118-20)
[PV-PAX:01_020_182]
With the permission of the officiating priests, who were well versed in funeral rites, the king, anointed with ghee and richly adorned, together with Mādrī… (BORI: 1-118-21)
[PV-PAX:01_020_183]
They cremated them with fragrant sandalwood mixed with tuṅga and padmaka, and with abundant aromatic substances of various other kinds. (BORI: 1-118-22)
[PV-PAX:01_020_184]
Then, seeing their two bodies, Kausalyā was overcome with grief. Crying, “Alas, my son!” she suddenly fell to the ground. (BORI: 1-118-23)
[PV-PAX:01_020_185]
Seeing her fallen and grief-stricken, all the people of the city and countryside cried aloud, moved by compassion and devotion to the king. (BORI: 1-118-24)
[PV-PAX:01_020_186]
As if exhausted, all creatures—even those born as animals—wailed in anguish along with the people. (BORI: 1-118-25)
[PV-PAX:01_020_187]
Likewise Bhishma, son of Shantanu, the wise Vidura, and all the Kauravas cried aloud, deeply afflicted with grief. (BORI: 1-118-26)
[PV-PAX:01_020_188]
Then Bhishma, Vidura, the king with his kinsmen, and all the Kuru women offered water for him. (BORI: 1-118-27)
[PV-KDV:01_020_189]
O king, all the people, grieving, gathered around the sorrow-worn Pandavas after they had offered the water rites. (BORI: 1-118-28)
[PV-PAX:01_020_190]
Just as the Pandavas slept on the ground with their kinsmen, so too, O king, did the townspeople, beginning with the Brahmins. (BORI: 1-118-29)
[PV-PAX:01_020_191]
For twelve nights, the entire city, down to its children, remained joyless, distressed, and dejected along with the Pandavas. (BORI: 1-118-30)
[PV-PAX:01_020_192]
Bahlika, Somadatta, and King Bhurishravas embraced one another and followed in their thousands. (KUMB: 1-136-16; KUMB: 1-136-17)
[PV-SVO:01_020_193]
All the officiating priests, together with the family priests, performed the rite with the fire of the horse sacrifice, according to the procedure prescribed in the Veda and accompanied by the appropriate mantras. (KUMB: 1-136-23)
[PV-SVO:01_020_194]
with sarala and deodar wood, guggul resin and lac, as well as logs of yellow sandalwood, haribera, and vetiver… (KUMB: 1-136-25; KUMB: 1-136-26)
[PV-SVO:01_020_195]
All the Pandavas, Bhishma son of Shantanu, Vidura, and the relatives wailed aloud and also performed the water rites. (KUMB: 1-136-32; NILA: 01.127.029)
[PV-SVO:01_020_196]
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_020_197]
Then the chamberlain, the king, and Bhishma, together with their kinsmen, offered Pandu a śrāddha consisting of the nectar of ancestral offerings. (BORI: 1-119-1)
[PV-PAX:01_020_198]
having fed thousands of Kurus and eminent Brahmins, and given heaps of jewels and excellent villages to the foremost of the twice-born… (BORI: 1-119-2)
[PV-PAX:01_020_199]
Then the citizens took the Pandavas, those bulls of Bharata’s line who had completed their purification rites, and entered the city named after the elephant. (BORI: 1-119-3)
[PV-KDV:01_020_200]
All the townspeople and country folk continually mourned that bull of the Bharatas as they would a kinsman of their own who had died. (BORI: 1-119-4)
[PV-PAX:01_020_201]
Then, at the conclusion of the funeral rites, Vyasa saw the people in distress and spoke to his mother, who was bewildered and afflicted with pain and grief. (BORI: 1-119-5)
[PV-KDV:01_020_202]
Happy times have passed, and dreadful times are upon us. Day by day, the days grow worse; the earth has lost her youth. (BORI: 1-119-6)
[PV-PAN:01_020_203]
A terrible age will come, rife with deceit, beset by many evils, in which the practices and observances of dharma have vanished. (BORI: 1-119-7)
[PV-PAN:01_020_204]
Go, embrace renunciation, and live a disciplined life in the ascetic forest, so that you do not witness the terrible destruction of this family of yours. (BORI: 1-119-8)
[PV-KDV:01_020_205]
Having assented, saying, “So be it,” she went in and said to her daughter-in-law, “Ambika, we have heard that because of your son’s misconduct, the Bharatas will perish together with their kin, and the grandsons as well.” (BORI: 1-119-9)
[PV-KDV:01_020_206]
So, if you agree, let us take this afflicted Kausalyā, tormented by grief for her son, and go to the forest. May all be well with you. (BORI: 1-119-10)
[PV-KDV:01_020_207]
When Ambikā replied, “So be it,” the virtuous Satyavatī took leave of Bhīṣma and went to the forest with her two daughters-in-law, O Bhārata. (BORI: 1-119-11)
[PV-KDV:01_020_208]
After performing extremely severe austerities, those noble women gave up their bodies and then attained their desired destination, O great king, best of the Bharatas. (BORI: 1-119-12)
[PV-KDV:01_020_209]