Ashwathama – The Cursed Immortal Warrior of Mahabharata | Full Story & History
Birth and Early Life
Ashwathama, son of Guru Dronacharya and Kripi, was born with a divine gem (mani) on his forehead. This gem protected him from hunger, thirst, disease, wild animals, and supernatural forces. From childhood, he was destined to be a warrior. Trained by his father, he mastered archery, swordsmanship, and the use of celestial weapons.
Role in the Kurukshetra War
During the Kurukshetra war, Ashwathama fought on the side of the Kauravas. He displayed immense bravery, often clashing with Arjuna and Bhima. After the death of his father Dronacharya, tricked and slain in battle, Ashwathama’s anger turned into uncontrollable rage.
The Night of Revenge
When Duryodhana was fatally wounded, Ashwathama promised to avenge him. That very night, along with Kripacharya and Kritavarma, he entered the Pandava camp. Mistaking the five Upapandavas (sons of Draupadi) for the Pandavas, he killed them mercilessly in their sleep. This act was against all rules of war and dharma.
The Use of Brahmastra
The Pandavas attacked Ashwathama in fury. Cornered, he invoked the powerful Brahmastra. Arjuna countered with his own Brahmastra. To prevent universal destruction, sages and Krishna ordered both to withdraw their weapons. Arjuna obeyed, but Ashwathama redirected his weapon towards Uttara’s womb, aiming to kill the unborn child Parikshit, the last heir of the Pandavas. Krishna intervened and saved the child.
Lord Krishna’s Curse
Ashwathama was captured and brought before Draupadi. Despite losing her sons, Draupadi forgave him, but Lord Krishna declared his crime unforgivable. Krishna cursed him to wander the earth for 3,000 years:
- His gem was removed, leaving a bleeding wound on his forehead.
- He would suffer from disease, foul smell, and loneliness.
- He would long for death but never attain it.
Ashwathama as a Chiranjivi
Ashwathama became one of the Chiranjivis (immortals). Unlike Hanuman or Parashurama, his immortality was not a blessing but a punishment. He was condemned to eternal suffering, carrying the burden of his sins.
Is Ashwathama Still Alive?
Legends and folklore suggest Ashwathama still roams the earth. In Burhanpur (Madhya Pradesh), locals believe he visits a Shiva temple to heal his forehead wound. In Kurukshetra and Gujarat, stories tell of a tall man wandering with a bleeding forehead, begging for herbs. While unproven, these tales keep his mystery alive.
Lessons from Ashwathama’s Story
- Revenge destroys both sides.
- Dharma must guide every action.
- Immortality without peace is the greatest curse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Who was Ashwathama?
Ashwathama was the son of Guru Dronacharya and Kripi. He was a mighty warrior born with a divine gem on his forehead, which gave him protection from hunger, thirst, and disease.
Q2. Why did Ashwathama kill the sons of Pandavas?
Ashwathama killed the Upapandavas (sons of Draupadi) in the night after the Kurukshetra war to avenge Duryodhana’s defeat. He mistook them for the Pandavas themselves.
Q3. Why did Krishna curse Ashwathama?
Ashwathama was cursed by Krishna because he committed the heinous act of killing innocent children and later targeted the unborn Parikshit with the Brahmastra.
Q4. What was the curse given to Ashwathama?
Lord Krishna cursed Ashwathama to live for 3,000 years, wandering the earth with incurable wounds, suffering loneliness, disease, and humiliation, without the relief of death.
Q5. Is Ashwathama still alive today?
According to popular legends and folklore, Ashwathama is still alive. Many people in regions like Burhanpur, Kurukshetra, and Gujarat claim to have seen him, wandering with a bleeding forehead wound.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the ancient Hindu epic Mahabharata and traditional folklore. Interpretations of Ashwathama’s story may vary across different texts and regions. Historical authenticity cannot be guaranteed, and this content is intended for educational and cultural purposes only.