A – Arjun ~ A-Z Blogger Challenge 2014

Whenever I hear this name, the first thing that comes to mind is, all-rounder, the one who is best in everything and takes on every challenge passionately. Arjun means, someone of unadulterated fame, who glows like silver. There are ample reasons why I chose Arjun to start with the A-Z blogger challenge 2014 with one being, my son carries that name too! So, allow me to introduce the powerful mythological character from Mahabharata – Arjun.

Going by names such as Partha, Dhananjaya, Falguna, Kiritin, Vibhastu, Savyasachi, Jishnu, Vijaya and Swetavahana, this warrior prince from epic Mahabharata was the third son of Kunti, the wife of King Pandu. Being blessed with powers to invoke the Devas (Celestial beings of Heaven), by Sage Durvasa, Kunti bore Arjun with the mighty powers of Lord Indra, God of thunderstorms. Of his four brothers Yudhishtir, Bhima, Nakul and Sahadeva, Arjun was the best archer. Being ambidextrous, he could perform any skill using both hands with aplomb. But, he is best known for his devotion to Lord Krishna, his charioteer and spiritual guru who guides him in his hour of karma. When Arjun, in his weak moment becomes indecisive over fighting the final war in Mahabharata against his guru Dronacharya and cousins, the Kauravas, Krishna preaches.....

Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshou kada chana

(English meaning: You have all the right to perform your actions but you must not expect the fruit of your actions)

Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani

(English meaning: The fruit should not become the purpose of your action lest you become attached to not doing what is your duty)

And, Arjun follows those words of wisdom and wins the great war of Kurukshetra. His untainted respect for his guru Dronacharya, his unquestionable faith in his charioteer cum guide Krishna, his unconditional love for his family and his absolute focus on goals to be achieved, remains unparalleled till date. That is the reason children are often told,

“Be like Arjuna when you want to achieve something in life. You will see nothing but your goal”