42. Arjun gets Brahmastra from Dronacharya

Over the next few days the Guru kept a track of both the disciples. Although he had a natural bias for his son, he could not help liking Arjun equally if not more, as the Pandava prince was proving to be more devoted, talented, self-possessed and above all a worthy learner.

In an auspicious day, the Master called Arjun and said,

‘Son, I am satisfied by your progress and intend to hand you over one of the most powerful divyastras. this is a brahmastra by category and as such infallible. Most certainly it would destroy the target. Are you ready to receive?’ he asked Arjun.

‘It is my fortune Sir, that you deem me to be fit for the weapon. I am at your feet to learn.’ – Arjun replied.

Dronacharya gave a brief background:

‘This weapon is called “Brahmashir’. My Guru Agnivesh received it from Saint Agastya and gave it to me after I pleased him with hard work and devotion. And now I give it to you as I find you to be the fittest of all my disciples including my son Aswathama, to tell you the truth. But..’ he seemed to be pondering a while keeping Arjun in great suspense.

‘But what Sir? Kindly order me. I am prepared to undergo any hardship as you may ask of me, whether you give me this weapon or not. I count your blessings more important than anything else.’ – Arjun submitted with poise, dignity and devotion.

Dronacharya did not seem to listen these words. After some pause, he continued from where he had left,

‘ But you need to promise me two things. First, you must never make a wrong use of it – in fact, on the humans as they are too weak to withstand its immense force. May be you would find it useful against brute force like demons or extra territorial forces like Gandharvas. Second, you must give me words that, should the situation demands, you will not be afraid to fight against me, your Guru,.’

Arjun agreed. Touching the lotus feet of Dronacharya, he said, ‘Master, I promise’. As the hugely powerful weapon passed from Guru to his disciple, there was a metamorphosis in Arjun’s life. His confidence grew enormously at one stroke. He had a feeling he could now fight against any force in the creation – in the world, netherworld and heaven.