Where Did Aswathama Hide After Killing Draupadi’s Sons?

The Legend of Aswathama

According to certain versions of the Mahabharata, Aswathama, the son of Drona, sought refuge in Kailash or Kailash Mountain after the tragic incident of assassinating Draupadi's sons. This act of revenge was driven by his desire to escape the wrath of the Pandavas, the family he had wronged. Aswathama’s journey of regret and redemption reveals the complex human emotions and the moral repercussions of war.

Aswathama's Hideout in the Ashram of Rishi Vedavyasa

After his heinous act, Aswathama feared retribution and sought solace in the peaceful environs of the ashram of Rishi Vedavyasa. It is believed that he tried to repent for his crimes, perhaps hoping to find a way to heal his conscience and escape the eternal curse he believed he The wise Rishi who is believed to have provided solace to Aswathama.

The Unfolding of Events

However, Aswathama was not merely looking for peace; he was also driven by a desire for vengeance. After killing five of Draupadi’s sons, he sought to confront the sons of Pandu. Aswathama was once a powerful warrior, as Bhishma had predicted, but his actions led him down a path of darkness. His confrontations with the Pandavas, especially with their most formidable warriors, brought about a series of devastating battles at night.

The night battles were marked by the deaths of numerous warriors, including Dristyadumna, Drupada, Balarama, and Sikandini. These losses greatly disturbed the Pandavas and their allies, including Krishna, who arrived to assist. In the morning, Aswathama confronted them, planning to unleash his powerful weapon—the Brahmasthra—on the unborn child of Uttara.

Flashback to Karna’s Acquisition of the Brahmasthra

It is worth noting that Karna, who also sought the Brahmasthra, had to contend with the same dilemma. Drona had refused Karna, fearing the weapon might fall into the wrong hands. Yet, Karna, driven by his desire for victory, used the Brahmasthra to secure an upper hand in the war against the Pandavas. This choice to use the vast destructive power of the Brahmasthra for personal gain put Karna on a similar path to Aswathama, albeit for different reasons.

The Irony of Aswathama’s Third Eye

Ironically, Aswathama possessed a third eye, a symbol often associated with Shiva, the god of destruction and transformation. This third eye represented his potential for redemption and his ability to see beyond the immediate present. Yet, instead of using his potential for good, Aswathama allowed his anger and desire for vengeance to consume him, leading to a tragic end.

Conclusion

Aswathama’s story is a complex narrative that explores themes of justice, loyalty, and the moral implications of war. While he once had the potential to be a hero, his actions ultimately brought suffering to all involved, including himself. The legend of Aswathama serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the consequences of our choices and the importance of maintaining our moral compass, even in times of conflict and adversity.

Aswathama's path teaches us that true strength lies not in the weapons we wield, but in the righteousness of our intentions and the wisdom with which we wield them. His story is a powerful lesson in the importance of seeking redemption and understanding the full weight of our actions.