The Battle of Karan and Arjun

Life is just like a sea that has both high tides and low tides at different intervals. But the best sailor is one who can stay calm and reach to his destination. Every person needs to stick to his/her own roots and never gloat of himself as TIME is the real factor that can transform a person from rags to riches in the blink of an eye. The following story is taken from one of the most famous book in the Hindu mythology, The Mahabharta, which in itself has many lessons for a human being to learn and live life.

In the 18 days long war of Mahabhartha one day Arjuna and Karan were face to face in the battleground. Both of them were the best of the warriors. That day, both of them were on their chariots and fought using bow and arrows. Lord Krishna was the charioteer of Arjuna’s chariot. Lord Krishna vowed not to pick up any weapons in the war but his mere presence was enough to support and guide him throughout the 18 day war. Karan’s son was executed in the battle by Arjuna and Karan refused to grieve his lost son, rather he planned to kill Arjuna to seek revenge for his son. Karan, who was battling from the Kaurva’s side was very furious and agitated to take his revenge.

The battle of bow and arrows between Karan and Arjuna began and every single arrow which Arjuna planted on Karan’s chariot, the chariot used to move backtrack for certain kilometers. Whereas, when Karan used to attack, Arjuna’s chariot would hardly recede for a few feet only. When Karan attacked Lord Krishna used to clap and praise him like anything for his efforts and attacking techniques but he remained silent and did not comment or praise Arjuna for his powerful attacks on Karan. Even if Lord Krishna did not praise him, Arjuna was very proud of himself for pushing Karan back.

After a while, frustrated and hungry for appreciation Arjuna asked Krishna, “Why don’t you appreciate me?” To this, Lord Krishna laughed and said. “You are having me as your charioteer and Lord Hanuman decided to sit on the top of your chariot to watch the war, still Karan’s attacks are powerful enough to move your chariot back. Just think what would have happened to you and your chariot, if we weren’t here?”After listening to this, Arjuna realized that it was not only his powers or efforts which were helping him during the battle but it was the power of God too which has saved him till now.

Success is not always achieved only by one’s own effort. It is only achieved when we have the support of our friends, family and most importantly God. We should not be overconfident of our achievements, we should thank god for his constant support guidance and love. We never know what all problems God has already resolved which were yet to come our way and mess our lives or even take away our lives. Thankfulness and humbleness are key elements of a successful leader.