As the legendary Amitabh Bachchan brings the character of Ashwatthama to life in Nag Ashwin's 'Kalki 2898 AD', this post-apocalyptic world inspired by Hindu mythology is definitely going to be a treat for the eyes. But who exactly is Ashwatthama and what role did he play in the epic Mahabharata?


Who is Ashwatthama?

Ashwatthama, born to Drona and Kripi, has had a remarkably eventful life since his birth. After years of penance to Lord Shiva, Ashwatthama entered the world with an extraordinary omen, neighing like a horse instead of crying like a baby. His name, Ashwatthama, translates to ‘sacred voice resembling that of a horse’.

Ashwatthama was born with a gemstone on his head, a divine blessing intended to protect him from evil spirits. He spent his early years in a poor household until his father, Drona, received the opportunity to train the Pandavas. Ashwatthama trained alongside them, becoming a highly skilled warrior.

Lord Krishna’s Curse to Ashwatthama

During the Kurukshetra War, Ashwatthama fought with the Kauravas out of loyalty to his father, Dronacharya. As Drona was invincible by ordinary means, Lord Krishna devised a plan to eliminate him. Krishna had Bheema kill an elephant named Ashwatthama and then proclaim that Drona’s son had died in battle. Devastated by the news, Drona succumbed to his death in the war.

In his grief and rage over his father’s death, Ashwatthama attacked the Pandavas, killing Draupadi’s five sons, mistaking them for the Pandavas, and setting a Pandava camp on fire. His wrath continued as he used the forbidden Narayanastra. Subsequently, a battle ensued between the Pandavas and Ashwatthama, during which he attempted to kill a pregnant Uttara.

Lord Krishna’s Intervention

Lord Krishna intervened, explaining that the unborn child in Uttara’s womb was innocent and protected by divine law. He stressed that it is a deadly sin to harm an unborn child, which goes against the natural laws ordained by God. Krishna then used his divine powers to revive the unborn baby, who was later named Parikshit and became the King of Hastinapur.

Following this, Krishna removed the divine gemstone from Ashwatthama’s forehead and cursed him:

“Oh, Ashwatthama, you will bear the burden of all people’s sins and wander the earth alone like a ghost until the end of Kaliyuga. You will find no hospitality or accommodation, living in total isolation from mankind and society. Your body will suffer from incurable diseases, with sores and ulcers that will never heal. May you lead the most wretched life anyone can ever lead, devoid of love or affection.”

Ashwatthama’s actions, including the invocation of the Brahmastra, were deliberate and calculated. The Vedas condemn the killing of a fetus as a heinous crime, and Ashwatthama knowingly committed this act. As a result, he was forced to give up his divine gem and endure Krishna’s curse. Although he was born with the boon of immortality, Krishna turned this boon into a curse, causing Ashwatthama immense suffering.

Ashwatthama's Connection to the Narmada Parikrama and Significance in Kaliyuga

The legend of Ashwatthama continues to hold significance, particularly in the context of Kaliyuga, the current era. According to folklore, Ashwatthama is believed to be wandering near the Narmada River, participating in the Narmada Parikrama (circumambulation of the Narmada River) as a form of penance. His immortal existence and ceaseless suffering serve as a reminder of the consequences of straying from Dharma (righteousness) and the eternal justice of divine law. Ashwatthama's story underscores the importance of adhering to ethical principles and the severe repercussions of actions driven by anger and revenge.

Source : India Today