The Crooked Warrior: Arjuna's Deceptive Tactics in the Mahabharata

The term 'crooked warrior' often evokes images of unethical or dishonest actions in combat. However, Arjuna of the Mahabharata, one of the most revered warriors, is often associated with deceptive tactics. This article explores instances in which Arjuna used cunning and underhanded methods to achieve victory, questioning his reputation as a 'crooked warrior.'

Deceptive Tactics Their Justifications

Arjuna's use of deceit is not without reason. Here are several critical instances where Arjuna resorted to unconventional, if not outright unethical, tactics during battles:

1. Attacking from Behind

One of the most notable instances of Arjuna's dishonorable tactics is his strategic attack on the army from behind in the battle of Kurukshetra. According to the Drona Parva (Section 114) in Debroy's translation of the Mahabharata, Arjuna deliberately attacked the enemy from a hidden position, using clouds of arrows shaped like hawks and not adhering to conventional warfare rules.

"And unwilling to commit the daring act of sin of slaying them that were defenceless Arjuna suddenly fell back and ATTACKED THE ARMY FROM BEHIND by means of clouds of keen-edged arrows proceeding towards their aims like hawks let off by fowlers."

2. Deception for Gain

Another example of Arjuna's cunning is his deception of his opponent, Karna. In the battle, Bhima used his skills to distress Karna. However, Karna, driven by pride, was deceived by Bhima's act of hiding and achieving a temporary advantage over Bhima (Drona Parva, Section 114).

"The angry Bhimasena was powerful and truth was his valour. He distressed Karna by leaping up into the sky. On witnessing the conduct on the part of the one who wished to be victorious in the battle, Radheya deceived Bhimasena by hiding. His senses were benumbed and he hid on the floor of his chariot. On seeing this he grasped his flagpole and remained stationed on the ground."

3. Striking Defenders Unawares

Arjuna's audacity extended to defeating an army devoid of defense, as mentioned in the same section of the Drona Parva, where he rallied the army against Bhurisrava and damaged his arm. This action demonstrates his willingness to break rules to gain an advantage.

"The Satwata hero rapidly whirled his head with the arm of Bhurisravas that held it by the hair like a potters wheel whirled round with the staff. Beholding Satwata thus dragged in battle by Bhurisravas the son of Pandu fixed on Gandiva a sharp razor-headed arrow. That arrow shot by Parthas hand and resembling a meteor flashing down from the firmament cut off the Kuru warriors arm with the sword in the grasp and decked with Angada."

4. Veiled Arrows and Unfair Advantages

Another significant instance showcases Arjuna's utilization of unethical means, especially with Nalika arrows. These arrows were explicitly banned for use in fair battles, yet Arjuna employed them against Karna. Thus, he not only broke the rules but also intensified the unfairness of the combat.

"Rubbing his two arms and also of Gandiva that fierce bowman Arjuna then sped showers of cloth-yard shafts and Nalikas and arrows equipped with heads like boars ears and razors and Anjalikas and crescent-shaped arrows. Arjuna that victor over all foes with furrowed brow and angry glances sped at Karna ALL THOSE SUCCESSIVE SHOWERS OF SHAFTS shot by the son of Pandu WERE CUT OFF by the Sutas son with his own arrows."

5. Inducing Dishonesty in Allies

Arjuna's influence on his allies extended to influencing their actions, as seen in the incident where he instructed Bhima to attack Duryodhana below the navel, which is against the rules of mace fight. This act not only violated ethical norms but could also be considered a form of treachery.

"Having heard those words of the high-souled Keshava Dhananjaya STRUCK HIS OWN LEFT THIGH before the eyes of Bhimasena. Understanding that sign Bhima began to career with his uplifted mace making many a beautiful circle and many a Yomaka and other kinds of manoeuvres."

Conclusion

Despite these instances of unethical behavior, it's important to recognize that Arjuna's actions were often driven by complex motivations and the high stakes of the Mahabharata war. His willingness to break the rules and use underhanded tactics can be interpreted as a strategic survival in a brutal conflict. Nevertheless, these actions have contributed to Arjuna's reputation as a 'crooked warrior,' a term that continues to challenge the ethical boundaries of a revered warrior in the Mahabharata lore.