Karna’s Dilemma at Kurukshetra: Loyalty vs. Duty in the Mahabharata

Many scholars and enthusiasts remain perplexed about Karna's decision not to engage in the battle against Bhishma and Drona during the famous Kurukshetra war. Was there a specific reason behind his choices, or were they influenced by external factors? This article delves into the motivations and circumstances that shaped Karna's actions during one of the most significant battles in Indian history.

Mythological Context and Karna's Role

In the Mahabharata, Karna is described as one of the four embodiments of Adharma (injustice) during the Adi Parva. He was a prominent character who played a significant role in the Kurukshetra War. Alongside Dronacharya, Karna was a teacher to the Pandavas and other Panchal princes, as well as the Kauravas. Despite his allegiance to the Kauravas, tradition suggests that he did not participate in the combat against Bhishma and Drona, a choice that has both fascinated and puzzled many readers.

Why Karna Did Not Fight Bhishma and Drona

Several factors played a role in Karna's decision. Firstly, Karna feared the consequences of decimating the Pandavas, which could lead to their eventual demise. He hoped to capture the Pandavas and end the war in a way that would spare their lives. His desire to see Bhishma fulfill his duty and responsibility further influenced his decision. Had Karna, Bhishma, and Drona fought simultaneously, the Pandavas' chances of survival would have been significantly diminished.

Secondly, Karna's lack of participation in the initial stages of the war can be attributed to his oath and the promise made by Bhishma. According to legend, Kunti, the mother of the Pandavas, had revealed Karna's birth secret to Bhishma before the war began. As a result, Bhishma was obliged to prevent Karna from joining the battle. This promise remained a secret, and thus Karna could not participate in the early stages of the war. Even when Duryodhana invited Karna, Bhishma, being the senapati (commander-in-chief), allowed Karna to choose to fight with Bhisma on the Kaurava side.

Furthermore, Karna's built-up frustration and emotional tension during the war led him to a different course of action. When the armies marched towards the battleground, Karna remained on the sidelines. Despite his reluctance to fight, Karna's loyalty to Duryodhana and his true friends motivated him to continue serving his cause. With Bhisma's eventual victory over him, Karna was defeated and faced Bhisma's attempt to kill him. In a poignant moment, Karna, with a choked voice and tears in his eyes, fell at Bhisma's feet, and Bhisma, respecting his adversary, hugged him. Bhisma then revealed Karna's true identity but expressed that he did not harbor any ill will.

Conclusion

The mystery surrounding Karna's decision not to engage in battles against Bhishma and Drona is a testament to the complex interplay of loyalty, duty, and family obligations in the Mahabharata. Karna's actions, influenced by his oath, his love for the Pandavas, and his desire to maintain the balance of the war, reflect a deeply layered character that continues to intrigue readers and scholars alike.