Why did Ashwatthama fight for Kauravas in Mahabharata?

The question of Ashwatthama fighting for the Kauravas in the Mahabharata is a complex one that has often been misunderstood. To fully understand this, we need to delve into the intricate tapestry of loyalty, duty, and the ideological battles fought by these ancient warriors.

Background and Family Obligations

Ashwatthama was not only a master warrior but also the beloved son of Kaurava's commander-in-chief, Drona. His education and training were personally overseen by his father, who dedicated his life to ensuring that Ashwatthama became the best warrior India has ever seen. This familial bond was foundational and deeply influential in shaping Ashwatthama's loyalty and actions.

Factions and Loyalty

It is essential to understand that while Ashwatthama formed a 'friendship' with Duryodhan, this alliance was not driven by personal affection but rather by his allegiance to his family and duty.

Friendship Allegations

The portrayal of Ashwatthama and Duryodhan as 'close friends' is often exaggerated. In reality, Duryodhan had a generous disposition and easily made friends, as noted by Satyaki during the war, who mentioned how emotional Duryodhan became over his desire not to fight him. However, Satyaki maintained his decision to fight for the Pandavas, just like Ashwatthama did with his father's teachings at heart.

Mahabharata Warriors and Their Allegiances

It is a common misconception that all major warriors of the Kaurav side were fighting for the opposite of their family's interests. Let us examine the loyalty and actions of key figures such as Ashwatthama, Bhishma, Drona, Kripacharya, and Karna.

Bhishma

Bhishma, known for his unwavering loyalty, never fought to his full potential. He explicitly stated that he would not kill any Pandav and refused to lead Karna. His defeat and subsequent surrender when Pandavas seemingly submitted to him highlight his noble, yet impractical, adherence to chivalric codes.

Drona

Drona's strategies during the war, such as capturing Yudhishthir and setting up the Chakravyuh, showed his commitment to the Kauravas. However, he fought below his potential, allowing Pandav warriors like Arjuna, Bhima, and Satyaki to bypass protective formations. His ultimate surrender and death at the hands of Yudhishthir's false claim about the death of Abhimanyu reveal his principle-driven approach to war.

Ashwatthama

Ashwatthama, like his father Drona, fought with the Kauravas out of familial and traditional obligations. Despite frequent defeats at the hands of Pandav warriors, he fought with renewed vigor after Drona's death. His famous vow to avenge his father led him to unleash powerful weapons like the Narayanastra, but ultimately, his determination to fulfill his promise overpowered his sense of right and wrong.

Bhurishravas and Kripacharya

Warriors like Bhurishravas and Kripacharya fought for the Kauravas, but not out of affection for Duryodhan. Bhurishravas sought to avenge his family, while Kripacharya remained loyal to his teachings and principles. Both fought below their potential, ultimately revealing the ineffectiveness of traditional warfare in achieving true victory.

Karna

Karna's involvement in the war after learning his true identity is a significant twist. His decision to fight selflessly for the Kauravas demonstrates his guilt and sense of duty. Karna's fight was marked by a noble spirit, despite the betrayals he faced.

Final Betrayal and Legacy

The Mahabharata's narrative highlights the change of heart of Karna as a tragic event. His betrayal after his true identity was revealed was a turning point in the war, reinforcing the idea that even great warriors can be swayed by personal loyalties.

In conclusion, Ashwatthama's fight for the Kauravas was deeply influenced by his familial bonds, traditional loyalties, and the ethical codes of warfare. The Mahabharata presents complex motivations and human struggles that defy simple categorizations, illustrating the intricate nature of ancient Indian warfare and the moral complexities of heroism.