Ep. 70 : The Seventh Day: Bhishma’s Might and Duryodhana’s Despair

Narrated by Kumar Varun.On the seventh day of the Kurukshetra war, Duryodhana, disheartened by repeated defeats, sought solace from Bhishma, who reassured him and rallied the Kaurava army into a circular formation. The battle raged across multiple sectors with fierce clashes: Bhishma against Arjuna, Drona against Virata, and Aswatthama against Sikhandin. Bhima decimated Kritavarma and other Kaurava warriors, while Ghatotkacha fought Bhagadatta but had to retreat. Duryodhana narrowly escaped capture in a duel with Dhrishtadyumna, saved by Sakuni. Yudhishthira displayed uncharacteristic wrath, wounding Srutayu and forcing him to flee. The day ended with Bhishma holding his ground against the combined might of the Pandavas. As the sun set, the weary warriors found a brief moment of peace and solace.Bibliography, Sources and Suggested further readings:1. C. Rajagopalachari, Mahabharata: This retelling provides the foundational structure and insights into the seventh day’s battle, focusing on the vivid interplay of emotions and combat.2. Kisari Mohan Ganguli, The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa (translation): Reference for detailed accounts of the battlefield formations, key clashes, and specific events on the seventh day.3. P. Lal, Mahabharata: An Inquiry into the Epic: Consult for understanding the moral undertones and reflective elements in the seventh day’s narrative.4. Krishna Dharma, Mahabharata: The Greatest Spiritual Epic of All Time: Provides interpretative perspectives on Yudhishthira’s wrath and the temporary harmony amidst chaos.