JOIN USThe Pandavas and Kauravas were aware that the war of Kurukshetra had become imminent. They started working towards it because they understood that the success of a project depends on various factors. Their actions stand testimony to this fact.
The Pandavas and Kauravas started scouting for military support in a methodical manner. Both the parties were aware of the power of the Vrishni race. Both sides wanted to garner the Yadavas as allies. Besides Lord Krishna the king of Dwaraka was a common cousin of the Kuru princes. Hence Duryodhana and Arjuna went to see him to seek support.
Duryodhana took the initiative of going early. He found Krishna enjoying his siesta. The Kuru prince decided to wait and seated himself on a seat at the head of the bed to register the fact that he was the first to seek interview with the Yadava king. Arjuna came in after a little while. He saw Krishna in slumber and his cousin at the head side of the royal bedstead. Hence he also decided to wait for Madhava to wake up. So he hovered around the foot of the bed silently.
Eventually Krishna awoke. He saw Partha and greeted him. Duryodhana was miffed. He was aware that the early bird gets the worm, little did he realise that the latecomer would get preference over him. He clarified that he was present much earlier than the Pandava. Krishna smiled and exchanged pleasantries before asking them what brought them there. The Kuru princes spelt out their requirements. Krishna said that one of them could avail his powerful Narayana Sena and the other could avail his personal support albeit unarmed. Even as Duryodahana hastened to speak, Krishna preferred to consider Arjuna’s request not only because he saw him first but also because Arjuna was younger.
Duryodhana seethed with impatience. Soon he chuckled with relief, when Partha opted for Krishna without arms. The contented Kaurava made a graceful exit after being assured of the massive Yadava military support. Then Krishna looked benevolently at Arjuna and queried him about his choice. Arjuna humbly submitted that he valued the presence Krishna in his side. The fact that Krishna would be unarmed did not bother him because he was sure that victory would follow the heels of his lord, for Krishna supported the right.
Planning and taking initiative the cornerstones of success should not be sidelined at any cost. Yet the choice of Arjuna speaks of a more important factor, one of humility towards his well-wisher and friend and irrevocable faith that Truth will establish itself when pursued with earnestness even without weapons.