Iravan Sacrificed and Shikhandi Gets Ready to Fight Bhishma : Episode 140

Recap of the Previous Episode :

On the ninth day, Bhishma shatters the Pandava formations, forcing Krishna to lift a weapon. At night, Bhishma agrees to reveal the only way he can be defeated: through Shikhandi. Duryodhana is devastated by the news, and the tenth day begins with fatal consequences.

Bhishma Grants His Life as a Gift to Dharma

Yudhishtra and Krishna return to the camp and announce the success of their mission. Bhishma has agreed to surrender his life for the sake of dharma. The Pandavas, Draupadi, Drupada and the allies rejoice, but Krishna reminds them that they are about to lose the greatest kshatriya of their time.

The War Sacrifice Requires a Worthy Offering

Krishna reminds the assembly that the war sacrifice must still be performed. Sahadeva consults the shastras and declares that only those possessing the thirty-two auspicious lakshanas are eligible. Only Arjuna, Krishna and Iravan fulfill this condition. Arjuna and Krishna are too important to be offered, and discussion turns to Iravan.

Iravan Offers Himself and Requests a Final Wish

Iravan steps forward and insists that he be chosen, as he swore to his mother that he would give up his life for the Pandavas’ victory. Sahadeva explains that his final desire must be fulfilled before the sacrifice. Iravan expresses that he has never known the joy of marriage, and wishes to wed before giving up his life.

Krishna Marries Iravan

Messengers search in all directions, but no maiden is willing to marry a man destined to die instantly after the wedding. Finally, Krishna assumes female form and marries Iravan. Soon after, Iravan is ritually sacrificed at the altar of Goddess Kali. Kali blesses his noble offering and grants him the boon of living to witness the war until its end. She declares that transgender women will forever regard Iravan as their eternal husband, honoring him with marriage rituals and mourning ceremonies.

Shakuni Celebrates Internally

The Kaurava leaders learn of the happenings. Shakuni advises reinforcing Bhishma’s protection, but inwardly rejoices that Bhishma’s death is near. His son Uluka warns him to conceal his joy.

Bhishma Receives the Blessing of Mother Ganga

Bhishma prays to his mother, Ganga. She appears, and he confesses that he feels he has failed in protecting Hastinapura. Ganga consoles him and says that she values his dedication to dharma above all else. Bhishma’s guilt dissolves and he smiles peacefully, prepared for his fate.

Arjuna Prepares for the Tenth Day

As Arjuna gets ready for battle, Krishna instructs him to wait for Shikhandi. Arjuna objects, calling it a violation of martial norms, but Krishna and Yudhishtra insist. Arjuna agrees reluctantly, and Shikhandi joins his chariot.

Armies Form Deva-Vyuha and Asura-Vyuha

Sanjaya narrates the beginning of the tenth day to Dhritarashtra. The Pandavas array their forces in Deva-vyuha, and the Kauravas form Asura-vyuha, as the decisive day dawns.