Latest news with #Yudhishthira
Indian Express
2 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
The stray dog crisis is real. But the solution cannot be cruelty
Towards the end of the Mahabharata, the five Pandavas and Draupadi renounce their kingdom, wear clothes of bark and begin the arduous walk to Mount Meru. Only the most righteous gain heaven, and this is their goal. During their long walk, a stray dog tags along, as strays tend to do. One by one, each of the Pandavas drops dead because each has a flaw that makes them unfit for heaven. Only Yudhishthira, son of Dharma, reaches the gates of Heaven — with the dog. They are met by Indra, who welcomes Yudhishthira in, but tells him to leave the dog behind: 'Dogs disrupt sacrifices and offerings, make them impure. You abandoned your wife and brothers on the journey. Now abandon the dog!' To this, Yudhishthira says he would rather give up heaven than a loyal friend: 'This dog is alive and has taken refuge with me. I will not abandon one who is devoted to me. That would be a sin equal to killing a woman, robbing a Brahmin, or harming a friend.' It turns out that Dharma himself has taken on the guise of a dog. The test of integrity in this greatest of epics is a man's treatment of a stray dog. Indra tells Yudhishthira, 'King, you are the greatest of kings, with intelligence, morality and compassion. You have given up a chariot to heaven for the sake of a loyal dog. Because of this you have gained the highest heaven.' It would be futile and wrong to deny that the population of stray dogs in our country, and their capacity to cause injuries and fatal disease, is a huge problem. Other countries manage stray dogs efficiently, and we have only to look to the West or to China for two templates. The former is based on respect for non-human lives, sanity and compassion; the latter is as brutal and draconian as ethnic cleansing. India long ago opted for the former, with policies to control dog populations and make it safe for both animals and humans. Corruption, laziness, and apathy have made sure those policies failed. As a consequence, humans and animals both suffer. Stray dogs multiply, they starve, they are subjected to horrifying cruelties. Human lives are lost to rabies and the dogs die wounded and in pain. This is not a situation that ought to continue. But the solution is not an authoritarian sweeping of the streets; it needs to be more humane, knowledge-based, and measured than the recent order of the Supreme Court. It needs to take into confidence those who look after strays all over the country: Ordinary people, NGOs. A couple of years ago, there was a rabies outbreak in Ranikhet, where I live. A few dogs died of it, and panic spread. The response from the population at large was to arm itself with sickles and lathis and attack any passing dog. The solitary animal NGO here, Himalayan Tails, went around tirelessly and fearlessly netting stray dogs and vaccinating them against rabies while euthanising those that were infected. In time, the threat passed. Since there is no government sterilisation facility here, the NGO holds camps, the public contributes funds, and dogs are vaccinated, sterilised, and returned to their spots on the streets. 'Why should that stray dog come back to that locality… What's the idea behind it?' asks Justice Pardiwala. This reveals a lack of understanding about animals, most of whom, from birds to dogs, have a homing instinct embedded in their genes. Like leopards and tigers, dogs are territorial. There are legendary stories of lost dogs running alone for hundreds of miles to return home. When you propose to vacuum them from their streets and cram thousands together in cages, it is an extermination order in disguise. The dogs have no idea that a cleansing is around the corner. There they still are: Wagging their tails and trying to be friends, cadging a bit of paneer here or a biscuit there, ambling around, scrounging for scraps, trying to survive somehow, as they always have. Those who look after them have long been pilloried for caring about dogs but not for humans — as if the two are mutually exclusive. In this myopic, petty, vindictive worldview, if you care for animals you do not care for the suffering of the underprivileged or oppressed human, nor for the mother who has lost her child to rabies. Compassion for animals is seen as the lordly affectation of the privileged. I've seen how at dawn, in Kolkata, patient knots of street dogs wait — for ordinary people, who are neither rich nor privileged, to come around with tubs of food and medicines. In the worn-out parks of East Delhi, I've seen labourers share scraps of their rotis with dogs. The stray dogs of our cities have always been cared for this way rather than by the state. A starring role in the Mahabharata hasn't cut much ice for strays in the ages since. Bulls get away with goring people to death because they are holy, and when tigers turn maneater, those particular animals are tranquillised and caged. The former is protected by religious beliefs, the latter by wildlife laws. The dog has neither. It is time for that to change, for protection to be put in place for this most gentle and loyal of animals. Those who have never known the love of a dog have never known heaven. Ever since 9/11, entire human populations have been punished for acts of violence by a few. If the Supreme Court has its way, all of Delhi's strays will pay the price for the few that have caused death or disease. What should the Indian state choose: Yudhishthira's dharma or blind brutality? Roy is a writer based in Ranikhet
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Who Were The Heaviest Drinkers In The Mahabharata?
The Pandavas, though known for following religious rules, are believed to have consumed alcohol occasionally, with Yudhishthira reportedly influenced during the gambling episode Alcohol consumption is believed to have been common during the times of the Mahabharata, with popular accounts suggesting the Kauravas indulged heavily. Shakuni and Duryodhana are said to have been frequent drinkers, often plotting conspiracies under the influence. The Pandavas reportedly consumed alcohol in moderation, while Karna is also believed to have enjoyed drinking, according to various interpretations of the epic. In the Mahabharata, alcohol (referred to as Sura) is frequently mentioned in the context of assemblies and drinking. During this period, it is believed that alcohol was prepared from rice, wheat, barley, or fruits. Popular accounts suggest that Mairey, a sweet and intoxicating drink made from honey and fruit juice, was widely consumed, as was Asava, made from grains or fruits. The use of Somras, a sacred drink from the Vedic period, is thought to have declined by the time of the Mahabharata. Several incidents highlight the role of alcohol in the Mahabharata. It is believed that during Draupadi's swayamvar, alcohol was served. Popular accounts suggest that Shakuni and Duryodhana's drinking fueled their arrogance and cunning. Karna's fondness for alcohol is mentioned in his dialogues with Shalya. Shakuni, regarded as the heaviest drinker, is believed to have often given Duryodhana poor advice while intoxicated. He is said to have orchestrated the infamous dice game under the influence of alcohol, which led to Draupadi's disrobing. Duryodhana, also a drinker, is thought to have made arrogant decisions, including insulting Draupadi by calling her a 'maid." It is believed that Karna, while intoxicated, revealed his intentions to kill Arjuna during a conversation with Shalya, who reportedly dismissed it as drunken bravado. In another account, a drunken Karna is said to have mocked Draupadi, claiming she was a slave lost by the Pandavas in gambling. Did The Pandavas Drink Alcohol? The Pandavas, generally known for adhering to religious rules, also reportedly consumed alcohol occasionally. It is believed that Yudhishthira, called Dharmaraj, was influenced by alcohol during the gambling episode, where he wagered everything. In the Mahabharata's Sabhaparva, it is mentioned that Shakuni made Yudhishthira drink alcohol and ensnared him in gambling. Yudhishthira later reportedly admitted, 'Drinking alcohol and gambling are both destructive for a human being." Bhima enjoyed food and wine; he drank wine after killing Keechaka and, in some versions, before slaying the demon Bakasur. There is no direct mention of Arjuna drinking, though it has been reported that he was offered wine in Madra Desh, which he refused. Vidur Niti in the Mahabharata describes drinking as adharma. In the Puranas, the Pandavas are depicted as abstinent. Liquor Served Even During Rajasuya Yagna During the Rajasuya Yagna, it is believed that the Pandavas organized a grand feast where liquor was also served. Popular belief holds that Shishupal, who became more aggressive after drinking, was beheaded by Krishna during this event. During the Rajasuya Yagna (Sabhaparva, Chapters 33-40), it is believed that Kshatriya kings were served sura and maireya in abundance. Popular belief holds that kings like Shishupal received special wine, while sura was also given to the general public in controlled quantities. Keechak, the powerful commander of Matsya, is believed to have been fond of alcohol. Popular accounts say he teased Draupadi (disguised as Sairandhri) while inebriated, leading Bhima to kill him. Did Women In The Mahabharata Drink Alcohol? There is no direct mention of women drinking alcohol in the Mahabharata. In Sabhaparva, Draupadi is said to have been called to the gathering where the Kauravas drank alcohol, but there is no record of her drinking. Women reportedly participated in major events like the Rajasuya Yagna, but serving alcohol was believed to have been limited to Kshatriya men. The Mahabharata also mentions Apsaras, such as Urvashi and Menaka, consuming wine, but these were divine women, not ordinary humans. Some Puranas, like the Devi Bhagavata Purana, are believed to note that wives of sages drank Somras, an intoxicating drink, though this dates back to the Vedic period rather than the Mahabharata era. In Shanti Parva (Chapter 167), Bhishma is believed to have told Yudhishthira that women drinking alcohol was considered inauspicious. Kautilya's Arthashastra is believed to mention that prostitutes could drink wine, but it was forbidden for ordinary housewives. Greek historian Megasthenes, in his work Indica (Vol. 10), also observed that Indian women did not drink sura, according to popular belief. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- General
- The Hindu
Sadhus follow the Pandavas
We should be in the company of those who belong to virtuous families. We should seek the company of educated men, and of those whose actions are blemishless. It is, of course, possible for us to study the Sastras to know the right path that we have to take in life. But the Sastras are difficult to understand and even more difficult to interpret. An easier way to know the right path is to be with good people and learn from their conduct, said Kidambi Narayanan in a discourse. The people of Hastinapura tell the Pandavas that since the five brothers are righteous, they — the citizens of Hastinapura — must be with the Pandavas, for the goodness of the Pandavas will give them the desire to keep to dharma always, even in the face of suffering. The Pandavas have jnana, say the people following them. Yudhishthira tells them that he is grateful for their love and concern, and their praise of the attributes of the Pandavas. But there are others who are sorrowful too, because of what has happened. Kunti is staying behind in Hastinapura. Bhishma, Vidura and other well wishers of the Pandavas are there. Who will console them if everyone follows the Pandavas to the forest? They need someone to speak kindly to them. So those following the Pandavas should return, says Yudhishthira. Some people turn back. But the sadhus insist on being with the Pandavas. Yudhishthira tries to convince them too. He tells them that the life of the Pandavas is sad. There is no room for happiness in their lives. Yudhishthira has no kingdom or wealth. What can he give them, he asks. The Vedic scholars reply that whatever hardships he and his brothers face in the forest, they are ready to face too. They are prepared to eat whatever is available in the forest. Yudhishthira has no option but to agree.
News18
30-07-2025
- Health
- News18
Everything You've Wanted To Ask About Death — But Never Did
Last Updated: People often struggle to talk about death, yet many have pressing questions about dying, grief, and what happens afterward. Let's shed light on these concerns In the Mahabharata, during the Pandavas' exile, the five brothers felt thirsty and sought water from a lake guarded by a Yaksha. The Yaksha demanded that they answer his questions before they could drink. However, none of the four younger brothers complied and drank forcibly, which resulted in their deaths as a punishment. The eldest brother, Yudhishthira, then approached the lake, answered the Yaksha's questions wisely, and was asked the final question: 'What is the greatest truth of life?" Yudhishthira replied, 'Death." Indeed, death is a truth we all must face eventually. Yet, discussing death is often challenging because many people are unprepared when it finally arrives. Common Questions About Death And Dying Recently, The New York Times invited readers to submit their questions about death and dying, covering a wide range of topics including inheritance and funeral planning, coping with grief, and maintaining control over one's final days. While there may be cultural differences, many of these questions and situations are universal and relatable to people everywhere. Here, some of those questions and their answers are shared. Everyone's final days are unique, but medical experts and hospital staff observe some common patterns. In the weeks leading up to death, people often eat and drink less and tend to sleep more. They may also feel restless, anxious, or confused, and some even experience hallucinations. Vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate become irregular or slow. These symptoms usually worsen in the final days. At this stage, individuals may struggle to swallow, their skin might turn blue, and their facial muscles can droop. Breathing becomes irregular and sometimes pauses altogether. The body temperature may fluctuate, becoming hot with fever or cold to the touch. Consciousness fades, and the person gradually slips into unconsciousness. What Is A Death Rattle? The 'death rattle' is a sound that comes from the back of the throat when a dying person breathes. It is estimated that around 40% of patients experience this sound at least once before death. The death rattle can begin a few hours or days before death, occurring when the person has difficulty swallowing and clearing their throat, causing mucus and saliva to build up in the windpipe. When air passes through this accumulation, it creates a snoring, gurgling, or rattling noise. Although it may seem as if the person is choking, they are not. Doctors believe the death rattle is neither painful nor uncomfortable for the dying person, who is often unaware of the noise, though it can be distressing for family and friends to hear. Can A Dying Person Hear Those Around Them? Experts in hospital care suggest that dying individuals can often hear and understand what is happening around them, even if unconscious. Some evidence indicates that patients in comas can respond to sounds and voices. A small study in 2020 recorded brain activity in unconscious patients near death, showing they reacted to familiar sounds in a manner similar to healthy young adults. Will I Know I Am Dying? Possibly. Interviews with people who were revived after cardiac arrest suggest that many had some degree of awareness during the event, implying that there may be an instinctual recognition of approaching death. Is The Time Near Death Painful? Pain near death varies depending on the cause and the effectiveness of pain management. For some, particularly those with severe injuries or advanced stages of disease, suffering may continue until the very end. However, the use of appropriate pain relief medications can significantly reduce or eliminate discomfort. What Are Near-Death Experiences? Dr Peter Fenwick, a leading researcher who passed away in 2024, extensively studied near-death experiences and documented over 300 cases in his 1995 book The Truth in the Light. More than half of the people interviewed described travelling through a tunnel, and around three-quarters reported seeing a bright light or having a sensation of choosing to return to their earthly life. What Is A Death Café? A Death Café is a gathering where people come together to talk openly about death and dying. These events aim to raise awareness about death, reduce fear, and encourage individuals to make the most of their lives. Death Cafés provide a safe space for sharing experiences, asking questions, and discussing concerns without judgement. The original Death Café was held in London in 2011, and since then, thousands have taken place worldwide, often accompanied by breakfast. In India, similar forums have emerged, offering platforms for open dialogue about death, addressing fears, and helping participants find answers to their questions. For example, in Kerala, regular Death Café sessions are held with up to 20 participants. A facilitator guides the discussion to encourage everyone to share their thoughts and concerns freely. What Happens To The Body After Death? top videos View all After death, the body undergoes several changes. Initially, muscles and joints relax completely, causing the skin to loosen. It is common for the bladder and rectum to release their contents involuntarily, leading to soiling. The body begins to cool down as circulation stops, and blood settles due to gravity, resulting in pale and blotchy skin. Within a few hours, rigor mortis sets in, causing the muscles to stiffen. This stiffness can last several days before the body relaxes again. These changes are a natural part of the body's post-mortem processes. News18's viral page features trending stories, videos, and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : deaths General Knowledge Interesting facts viral news viral news daily view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 30, 2025, 12:46 IST News viral Everything You've Wanted To Ask About Death — But Never Did Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
