Ep 72: The Ninth Day: Arjuna’s Dilemma and Krishna’s Fury

Narrated by Kumar Varun.The ninth day of the battle sees Duryodhana accusing Bhishma of not fighting wholeheartedly, prompting the Grandsire to reaffirm his commitment while refusing to fight Sikhandin or kill the Pandavas. Bhishma then wreaks havoc on the Pandava army, demoralizing them. Krishna urges Arjuna to fight with resolve, but Arjuna’s reluctance to attack Bhishma frustrates Krishna, who nearly breaks his vow of non-violence. Bhishma welcomes Krishna’s approach with open arms, but Arjuna intervenes and promises to do his duty. The day ends with Bhishma firmly holding his ground and the Pandavas returning to camp in low spirits.Sources, Bibliography and Suggested further reading:1. Vyasa, The Mahabharata. Translation by C. Rajagopalachari, Chapter 72, "The Ninth Day."2. Ganguli, Kisari Mohan. The Mahabharata of Krishna-Dwaipayana Vyasa, translated into English prose, Book 6: Bhishma Parva.3. Murthy, Ramesh. A Modern Retelling of the Mahabharata. Chapter on the Ninth Day’s Battle.4. Lal, P. The Mahabharata of Vyasa: A Condensed Version, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.