Ashwatthama's Mistakes and Their Consequences in Mahabharata

The epic tale of Mahabharata is replete with tales of valor, betrayal, and divine interventions. One such character who stands out due to his grave mistakes and the subsequent punishment is Ashwatthama, the son of Drona. In this article, we will delve into the grave mistakes of Ashwatthama and the consequences that followed.

Mistake 1: Using Weapons Beyond Their Proper Scope

Using Nārāyanastra and Higher Caliber Agneyastra on Normal Soldiers

During the Mahabharata war, Ashwatthama displayed an alarming level of audacity by using heavenly weapons like the Nārāyanastra and higher caliber Agneyastra against ordinary soldiers. The Nārāyanastra is a weapon of extreme power that can even destroy the very fabric of creation. Using such a lethal weapon on normal soldiers is a gross misdemeanor that highlights Ashwatthama's lack of restraint and respect for the sanctity of war.

Mistake 2: Treacherous and Unprovoked Attacks

Using Brahmashira Astra to End the Lineage of Pāndava Brothers Even Before They Were Born

After the night battle where Duryodhana was defeated, Drona's son Ashwatthama took a grave and treacherous action. He used the Brahmashira Astra, a weapon that can destroy an entire lineage, against the sleeping Pandavas, even before they were born. This act of defiance against his own oath and the moral code of war brought about a severe backlash, leading to his own suffering.

The Night of Darkness and Devastation

The Night of Reckoning

The night that followed the battle was one of the darkest in the Mahabharata. Ashwatthama, accompanied by Kritavarma and Kripacharya, entered the Pandava camp and mercilessly slaughtered Shikhandi, Dhrishtadyumna, and the Upapandavas. The weapons he used were enormous, including a giant shield and a golden sword. These acts of violence against innocent souls and the adverse consequences reflect the depth of his betrayal and the fateful pact he broke with Lord Krishna.

The Curse from Shri Krishna

The Cursing of Ashwatthama

In a moment of profound wisdom, Lord Krishna, who had witnessed the atrocities, imposed a heavy curse on Ashwatthama. He would wander on earth for three thousand years, plagued by diseases and unable to converse with anyone. This curse serves as a powerful reminder of the self-inflicted vengeance and the wisdom in adhering to ethical codes in times of war and strife.

Lessons from Ashwatthama's Mistakes

Lessons for Modern Times

The story of Ashwatthama serves as a poignant reminder of the perils of misuse of power and the importance of ethical conduct in all circumstances. It teaches us that the consequences of treachery and the abuse of power can linger for generations, affecting not just the perpetrator, but also the entire world around him.

Prashant Yadav

As we reflect on the story of Ashwatthama, we can take solace in the blessings of Lord Rama and seek to follow a path of righteousness and ethical conduct in our lives.

May the blessings of Shri Ram always be by your side.