The story of Drona (Dronacharya)

Drona, also known as Dronacharya, is a revered figure in Indian mythology, particularly within the epic narrative of the Mahabharata. As a master of advanced military arts, teacher of the Pandavas and Kauravas, and a key figure in the Kurukshetra war, Drona’s life is a tapestry woven with threads of wisdom, valour, complexity, and enigma. His character embodies a unique blend of righteousness and ambiguity, loyalty and betrayal, making him one of the most fascinating personalities in Indian epics. This essay delves into the life of Drona, exploring his character traits, pivotal events, and the enigmatic aspects that surround him.

Birth

Drona was the son of the sage Bharadvaja, who lived on the banks of the Ganges. One day, while bathing in the river, Bharadvaja saw the celestial maiden Ghrtaci. Embarrassed, she ran away, leaving her clothes behind. Upon seeing her fully unclothed, Bharadvaja had a seminal discharge, which he collected in a Drona (trough). From this, Bharadvaja fathered a child, who he named Drona. He grew up in the hermitage.

Education and Marriage

Drona learned weaponry from his father and the hermit, Agnivesh. Learning that Parasurama was giving away his fruits of penance to brahmans, Drona approached him. Unfortunately, by the time Drona arrived, Parasurama had given away all his belongings to other brahmans. Taking pity upon the plight of Drona, Parasurama imparted his knowledge of combat to Drona.

After completing his education, Drona married Kripi, the daughter of Saradvan, brother of Kripacharya, the then teacher of the Kaurava and Pandava princes and they had a son named Ashwatthama, who neighed like the horse Uchchaihshravas at birth.

Drona and Drupada

He was a close friend of a fellow student of Drupada, the prince of Panchala. For the sake of his wife and son, Drona desired freedom from poverty and, remembering the promise given by Drupada, he approached him for help. However, drunk with power, King Drupada refused to even recognise Drona and humiliated him by calling him an inferior person. Drupada gives Drona a long and haughty explanation of why he is rejecting him. Friendship, says Drupada, is possible only between persons of equal station in life. As a child, he says, it was possible for him to be friends with Drona, because at that time, they were equals. But now Drupada had become a king, while Drona remained a luckless indigent. Under these circumstances, friendship was impossible. However, he said he would satisfy Drona if he begged for alms befitting a Brahmin rather than claiming his right as a friend. Drupada advised Drona to think no more of the matter, and to be on his way. Drona went away silently, but in his heart, he vowed revenge.

Becoming the Teacher of the Pandavas and Kauravas

Vowing revenge, Drona moved to Hastinapura and stayed incognito. One day, he demonstrated his skills to the Pandava and Kaurava princes by retrieving their ball and a ring from a well using enchanted grass. Impressed, the princes reported this to Bhishma, who appointed Drona as their teacher

Training the Princes

As the teacher of the Pandavas and Kauravas, Drona’s role was pivotal in shaping the future warriors of the Kurukshetra war. His instruction included advanced military strategies, archery, and the use of divine weapons. Drona’s training was rigorous and impartial, despite the political and familial complexities of his students.

(a) First Vow: Drona asked his students to promise a favour upon completing their education. Arjuna alone vowed to fulfil his teacher’s wish.

(b) Favourite Disciple: Arjuna proved to be Drona’s most dedicated and brilliant student, surpassing even Drona’s son Ashwatthama in some respects. Drona taught Arjuna special techniques and the use of divine weapons.

(c) Ekalavya: One of the most controversial episodes in Drona’s life involves Ekalavya, a talented tribal prince who sought to learn archery under Drona’s tutelage. When Drona refused him because of his low caste, Ekalavya created a clay image of Drona and practiced diligently. Upon discovering Ekalavya’s prowess, Drona demanded his right thumb as guru Dakshina (teacher’s fee) to protect Arjuna’s position as the best archer. This act is often seen as a blemish on Drona’s otherwise illustrious character, highlighting the complexities of his principles and decisions.

(d) Mastery of Skills: Arjuna excelled in all aspects of weaponry, while his brothers specialized in their respective fields.

(e) Bird Test: Drona tested his students by asking them to aim at an artificial bird. Only Arjuna focused on the target, impressing Drona.

(f) Crocodile Test: When a crocodile attacked Drona during a bath, Arjuna swiftly killed it, earning Drona’s favour and the knowledge of the Brahma Sirastra, a powerful weapon.

(g) Demonstration: At the end of their training, the princes demonstrated their skills. Arjuna’s performance was exceptional, drawing admiration from all, including his teacher.

Revenge on Drupada

As a teacher’s fee, Drona asked his students to capture Drupada. While Duryodhana and Karna failed, Arjuna succeeded in capturing and bringing Drupada to Drona. Drona spared Drupada’s life but took half his kingdom, leaving the other half to Drupada.

Oath to Fight Against Drona

Drona asked Arjuna to vow that he would fight him if they ever faced each other in battle. Arjuna took this oath, which allowed him to fight without hesitation in the Kurukshetra War.

Role Before the Kurukshetra War

(a) Drona advised the Kauravas to reconcile with the Pandavas after the latter’s survival from the lac house incident.

(b) He attended Yudhishthira’s Rajasuya sacrifice.

(c) He witnessed and disapproved of the dice game between Yudhishthira and Shakuni.

(d) He supported peace negotiations but ultimately prepared for battle

Why Drona Fought for the Kauravas?

Although Drona favoured the Pandavas, he fought for the Kauravas because of his obligation to them for financial support. He advised Yudhishthira to kill him early in the battle by making him hear unpleasant news, revealing the only way to defeat him.

Drona in the Kurukshetra War

(a) Fought and defeated many warriors, including Dhrishtadyumna and Shankha.

(b) Became the commander-in-chief after Bhishma’s fall.

(c) Created the Chakravyuha formation.

(d) Drona’s death is shrouded in tragedy and deceit. On the fifteenth day of the war, he was informed of the death of his son Ashwatthama, a misinformation tactic devised by the Pandavas. Overwhelmed by grief and a sense of betrayal, Drona laid down his arms and was killed by Dhrishtadyumna, fulfilling the destiny set by Drupada’s curse.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Dronacharya’s legacy transcends the boundaries of myth and history. His teachings on warfare, ethics, and governance continue to inspire generations of scholars, warriors, and leaders. The enduring popularity of his stories in Indian epics, folklore, and performing arts underscores his cultural significance and timeless relevance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dronacharya emerges as a multifaceted figure in Indian mythology and literature, revered for his unparalleled skills in archery, warfare, and education. His life journey, from humble beginnings to becoming the preceptor of princes and commanders, reflects the complexities of duty, honour, and sacrifice. Despite the controversies surrounding his decisions, Dronacharya remains an emblem of wisdom, integrity, and martial prowess, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts and minds of millions. His decisions, though controversial, provide valuable insights into the complexities of human ethics, caste dynamics, loyalty, and the pursuit of righteousness in olden days.