Ashwatthama, the son of Guru Dronacharya, is one of the most mysterious and intriguing characters in Hindu mythology. Revered as a great warrior, he played a significant role in the Mahabharata. However, his story took a tragic turn when he was cursed with immortality, condemned to roam the earth in suffering. His legend is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures, making him a subject of both awe and fear.
Ashwatthama’s Birth and Lineage
Ashwatthama was born to Guru Dronacharya and Kripi. His birth was extraordinary, as he was gifted with a celestial gem (Mani) on his forehead, granting him immense power, immunity from diseases, hunger, thirst, and fatigue. Being the son of a great warrior and teacher, he was trained in weaponry and warfare from an early age. He became an adept warrior, skilled in celestial weapons (Divyastras) and was a close companion of Duryodhana.
Role in the Mahabharata
Ashwatthama fought on the side of the Kauravas during the Kurukshetra war. Although a formidable warrior, he was overshadowed by great warriors like Arjuna, Bhishma, and Karna. His life took a drastic turn after the death of his father, Guru Dronacharya.
The Death of Dronacharya
During the war, Krishna devised a strategy to demoralize Dronacharya. He instructed Bhima to kill an elephant named ‘Ashwatthama’ and spread the news that ‘Ashwatthama is dead.’ Yudhishthira, known for his truthfulness, confirmed this but hesitated, saying, “Ashwatthama Hatah (killed)...” and then murmured “…Naro Va Kunjaro” (whether it is a man or an elephant, I do not know). Dronacharya, believing his son was dead, laid down his arms in despair, and was beheaded by Dhrishtadyumna.
The Revenge of Ashwatthama
Enraged by his father’s unjust death, Ashwatthama swore revenge. Along with Kripacharya and Kritavarma, he entered the Pandava camp at night and mercilessly slaughtered Draupadi’s five sons (Upapandavas), mistaking them for the Pandavas. He also killed Dhrishtadyumna, Shikhandi, and many others while they were asleep, committing one of the most dishonorable acts of the war.
Krishna’s Curse and Ashwatthama’s Immortality
After realizing Ashwatthama’s heinous act, the Pandavas confronted him. In a desperate move, Ashwatthama invoked the Brahmastra against them. Arjuna, in retaliation, also launched a Brahmastra. Fearing the destruction of the world, the sages and Krishna intervened and ordered both warriors to withdraw their divine weapons.
Arjuna, trained in dharma, successfully recalled his weapon, but Ashwatthama, lacking the necessary knowledge, could not retract his Brahmastra. Instead, he redirected it towards the unborn child of Uttara (Abhimanyu’s widow) to wipe out the Pandava lineage. However, Krishna shielded the baby (Parikshit) and saved the dynasty.
Krishna, infuriated by Ashwatthama’s actions, cursed him:
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He would live forever, bearing the guilt of his sins.
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His celestial gem was removed, rendering him vulnerable.
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He would wander the earth, covered in wounds, never healing.
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He would be devoid of companionship and happiness.
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He would seek death but never attain it.
Thus, Ashwatthama was condemned to immortality, roaming in pain and disgrace.
Ashwatthama in Hindu Scriptures
Ashwatthama’s tale is extensively mentioned in various Hindu texts:
Mahabharata
The epic vividly describes his valor, vengeance, and downfall. His interactions with Krishna and Arjuna define his character as both powerful and tragic.
Puranas
The Puranas, including the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, reiterate his immortality and the consequences of Krishna’s curse. It is believed that he still roams the earth, seeking liberation.
The Bhagavata Purana (Skanda 1, Adhyaya 7, Shloka 35-36) describes Krishna's curse upon Ashwatthama:
"तं शान्तम् आकुटशिरस्कम अद्भुतं बद्धाञ्जलिं सूचि-कृशं दीन-स्वरम् | कृष्णः कराभ्यां प्रसमीक्ष्य विस्मितो विनिःश्वसन्न् आह कृपान्वितो विभुः ॥"
(1.7.35)
"ब्रह्म-बन्धो न हन्तव्य आततायी वधार्हणः | मयैवोभयतोऽमुष्मिन् कृता भ्रूण-हतश्च सः ॥"
(1.7.36)
Translation: "Krishna saw Ashwatthama, weak and trembling, standing with folded hands, in extreme distress. Filled with pity, yet enraged, Krishna addressed him and declared that he would be cursed to wander the earth forever, suffering from his sins."
These verses solidify the notion of Ashwatthama’s immortal suffering, reinforcing his fate as decreed by Krishna.
Ashwatthama’s Presence in Modern Times
Many believe Ashwatthama still exists. Several accounts claim that he has been seen in remote forests, temples, and Himalayas. Some sages and priests narrate encounters with a mysterious, wounded, yet radiant figure seeking medicine or shelter.
Conclusion
Ashwatthama’s life is a tale of unparalleled bravery, vengeance, and divine punishment. While he was one of the greatest warriors of the Mahabharata, his actions led to his eternal suffering. His immortality remains a fascinating subject, blurring the line between mythology and reality. Whether he is a myth or still walks among us, his story continues to intrigue and mystify devotees and scholars alike.
