Story Summary
Discover The Burning of Khandava Forest from the Mahabharata, where Arjuna and Krishna assist Agni in consuming a wilderness to restore his divine power and glory.
Agni, the God of Fire, suffered from a severe loss of appetite after consuming too much clarified butter from King Swetaki’s endless sacrifices. To regain his strength, Agni needed to consume the lush Khandava Forest, which was rich in medicinal herbs. However, every time he tried to burn it, Indra, the King of Gods, sent torrential rains to protect his friend Takshaka the serpent who lived there. Agni approached Krishna and Arjuna for help. Recognizing his plight, the heroes agreed. Agni gifted Arjuna the legendary Gandiva bow and two inexhaustible quivers, while Krishna received the Sudarshana Chakra. As Agni began to consume the forest, Indra attacked with clouds and storms. Arjuna created a vast canopy of arrows so dense that not a single drop of rain could reach the fire. Krishna patrolled the perimeter to ensure no creature escaped the divine consumption. Despite Indra’s fury, the forest was reduced to ashes, curing Agni. In gratitude, the architect Maya Danava, whom Arjuna spared, built the Pandavas the magnificent palace of Indraprastha.
The Moral
The destruction of the old is often a necessary precursor to the creation of something magnificent and new.
“When the divine fire hungers, even the King of Gods cannot quench its flames.”
Fun Fact
This event is pivotal in the Mahabharata because the palace built by Maya Danava on this land was so illusory that it later caused Duryodhana's humiliation, triggering the Great War.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Burning of Khandava Forest?
The story teaches that change is inevitable and sometimes destruction is necessary for renewal. It also highlights the importance of fulfilling one's duty and aiding the divine cycle of nature.
Why did Agni want to burn the Khandava Forest?
Agni had lost his digestive power after consuming too much ghee from a king's long sacrifice. He needed to consume the medicinal plants within the Khandava Forest to restore his health and divine energy.
What gifts did Arjuna and Krishna receive for this task?
Agni provided Arjuna with the legendary bow Gandiva and two inexhaustible quivers of arrows. Krishna received the Sudarshana Chakra, a powerful celestial discus, to aid in the battle against Indra.
Who survived the burning of the forest?
Most inhabitants perished, but six survived: the architect Maya Danava, the serpent Ashwasena, and four Sharngaka birds who prayed to Agni for protection. Takshaka was away at the time.
Why did Indra try to stop the fire?
Indra was the protector of the forest because his close friend, the Naga king Takshaka, resided there. He used his power over the weather to douse the flames with heavy rain whenever Agni tried to consume it.
What happened after the forest was burned?
The clearing of the land allowed for the construction of Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas. Maya Danava, out of gratitude for being saved, built a celestial assembly hall that was the most beautiful in the world.