Even Vyasa Maharishi, the author of the Mahabharata, cannot definitively answer this question. This is because all the main characters in the Mahabharata have many layers. It is impossible to categorically state who is great and who is not. Similarly, we cannot label any character as purely evil for (Arjuna Vs Karna) their mistakes. From a philosophical perspective, Vidura’s wisdom that “one should not do to others what causes oneself great sorrow” is unparalleled. Yet, many firmly believe and argue that Lord Krishna, who delivered the Bhagavad Gita, is the true philosopher. This depth and complexity in characters make the Mahabharata a standard for comprehensive literature. There are no heroes or villains in the Mahabharata!
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Let’s delve into our primary debate. To assess individuals, we must first examine their personalities. So, let’s look at these personalities layer by layer. Karna was abandoned by his mother in a river right after birth. Though it was at the behest of the Sun God, Kunti Devi abandoned Karna, who should have grown up as a Kshatriya, and he was raised as a Shudra, a servant. Despite this, Karna promised Kunti Devi that he would spare all the Pandavas except Arjuna in the Kurukshetra war.
This indicates that Karna recognized Arjuna as his equal and understood that the Kauravas could not win with Arjuna alive. Karna, who would give away anything to anyone who asked, even offered the lives of his four brothers to his mother. This shows the magnitude of his generosity.
Once, Karna fell asleep with his guru’s head in his lap. During this time, a bug bit Karna’s thigh. However, he endured the pain the whole day without moving, as even a slight movement would disturb his guru’s sleep. Upon waking, the guru was amazed by Karna’s endurance and, realizing Karna must be a Kshatriya, cursed him for lying about being a Shudra. Here, Karna’s goodness is evident, but the curse was a tragic twist of fate meant to ensure his defeat.
Karna had immense affection from his father, the Sun God, who broke the rule of not revealing future events to save Karna’s life. The Sun God told him, “Karna, your armor and earrings are not ordinary. As long as you have them, no one in the three worlds can kill you. But Indra, in the guise of a Brahmin, will ask for them to ensure your death.
Do not give them to him.” Karna responded solemnly, “Before worshiping the Sun, my vow is to give anything asked by elders, women, children, or Brahmins. That is my duty. I cannot live by breaking my vow. I crave fame and am willing to sacrifice my life for it. Let my life be sacrificed, but I cannot bear disgrace.” Such discipline and(Arjuna Vs Karna) resolve led Karna to give away his armor and earrings, even knowing it would lead to his death. This demonstrates extraordinary mental strength.
Even though the Sun God advised him to ask for a powerful weapon from Indra in return, the curse of his guru rendered it useless in battle. Interestingly, while Indra tried to protect Arjuna, born from his essence, the Sun God tried to protect Karna. Parental love can compel one to do anything, as seen when Dhritarashtra tolerated Duryodhana’s misdeeds.
Karna’s prowess in battle was unparalleled. He overpowered Dharmaraja with his punches and spared his life, making Nakula, Sahadeva, and Bhima tremble with fear. Despite them fighting together on a chariot, Karna alone would fiercely confront them in the Kurukshetra war, so much so that even Arjuna was afraid and hesitant to face Karna directly. Duryodhana relied on Karna’s valor for the war, believing that Kurukshetra would still be ongoing if Karna were alive. Without Karna, there would have been no Kurukshetra war, just a truce among kings.
Now, let’s examine Arjuna. He was no ordinary archer. His determination to learn and impress his guru was unmatched. Once, Dronacharya promised to make Arjuna the greatest archer in the world. However, when Ekalavya exhibited unknown skills, Dronacharya’s envy led to Ekalavya losing his thumb, causing Arjuna to accuse his guru of breaking his promise.
Arjuna’s battle prowess was extraordinary. He believed that anyone in front of him was a kill-worthy enemy and would not rest until they were defeated. Duryodhana sought a hero to defeat Arjuna, knowing he could not do it himself. Once, in a duel with Karna, Arjuna trapped Karna’s chariot with arrows, making Karna look like a caged rat. Later, Karna returned the favor, showcasing his unmatched speed and battle skills.
Karna’s shortcomings? Many. Despite his generosity, his adherence to adharma until Arjuna aimed the Gandiva at his throat was evident. Once, Dronacharya held a display of skills for his disciples. Karna, filled with arrogance, insisted on showcasing his strength despite Drona’s warning, leading to Drona’s anger. During the (Arjuna Vs Karna)infamous dice game, it was Karna who suggested disrobing Draupadi, a heinous act surpassing all limits. Duryodhana’s courage stemmed from Karna’s backing; without Karna, he would have hesitated to go to war.
During a battle with the Gandharvas, Karna advised Duryodhana to fight, but they suffered a severe defeat. Karna abandoned Duryodhana in the midst of battle, showcasing a lack of loyalty. Despite being hailed as a friend who would sacrifice anything, Karna often fled from battles, leaving Duryodhana vulnerable.
Karna’s desire for fame sometimes led to questionable actions. (Kalki 2898 AD Context) He refused to fight while Bhishma was alive, only joining the war after Bhishma fell. In contrast, Arjuna was willing to abandon the war to avoid killing his kin, showing compassion that Karna lacked.
During another battle, Karna defeated Drupada, but the Pandavas triumphed over Drupada’s kingdom. In the end, Karna’s arrogance often clouded his judgment. When a serpent sought revenge against Arjuna, Karna’s pride led him to refuse its help, determined to defeat Arjuna himself.
The most heart-wrenching event is the death of Arjuna’s son, Abhimanyu, trapped in the Padmavyuha. Karna played a crucial role in his death, showing no mercy. This fueled Arjuna’s rage against Karna. Similarly, Karna’s own son(Arjuna Vs Karna) was killed by Arjuna, leading to Karna’s breakdown and renewed ferocity in battle.
At the climax, Karna’s chariot got stuck in the mud due to a curse. He pleaded for time to free it, but Krishna reminded him of the adharma he had committed, silencing Karna. Arjuna, following Krishna’s orders, killed Karna. As Karna’s head fell to the ground, the chariot wheel rose, signifying his destined defeat.
Karna’s Strengths
- Exceptional Skills: Karna is known for his unmatched archery skills and warrior abilities. He was a disciple of Parashurama, one of the greatest warriors and teachers.
- Courage and Loyalty: Karna is celebrated for his(Arjuna Vs Karna) bravery, loyalty to Duryodhana, and his unwavering sense of duty.
- Generosity: Karna is also renowned for his generosity, often called “Daanveer” for his willingness to give away anything, even at great personal cost.
Arjuna’s Strengths
- Divine Weapons: Arjuna possesses numerous divine (Kalki 2898 AD) weapons granted by the gods, including the Pashupatastra from Lord Shiva and the Gandiva bow from Agni.
- Guidance from Krishna: Arjuna benefits from the guidance and support of Lord Krishna, who acts as his charioteer and spiritual guide.
- Versatility and Strategy: Arjuna is known for his strategic thinking, versatility in combat, and adherence to dharma (righteousness).
Key Points in Their Rivalry(Arjuna Vs Karna)
- Archery Contest: Karna and Arjuna are often compared in terms of their archery skills. In several instances, they prove to be nearly equal.
- Kurukshetra War: Their direct confrontation during the Kurukshetra War is one of the epic’s highlights. Despite Karna’s prowess, he faces several challenges, including the curse from Parashurama and the curse from a Brahmin.
- Final Battle: In their final battle, Arjuna emerges victorious with the help of Krishna. Karna’s chariot wheel gets stuck, rendering him vulnerable, and Arjuna kills him while he is defenseless, which is considered against the rules of fair combat.
| Warrior | Wins | Losses | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bhima | 57 | 6 | 20 |
| Arjuna | 48 | 0 | 13 |
| Satyaki | 32 | 6 | 17 |
| Abhimanyu | 25 | 1 | 10 |
| Yudhishthira | 12 | 7 | 8 |
| Drishtadyumna | 6 | 9 | 12 |
| Sahadeva | 5 | 2 | 6 |
| Nakula | 5 | 3 | 3 |
| Drona | 25 | 9 | 12 |
| Karna | 12 | 14 | 8 |
| Ashvatthama | 10 | 11 | 14 |
| Shalya | 7 | 6 | 12 |
| Kripa | 6 | 2 | 4 |
| Bhagadatta | 4 | 2 | 4 |
| Bhishma | 4 | 0 | 13 |
| Duryodhana | 4 | 20 | 6 |
This table categorizes the warriors into their respective groups (Pandava and Kaurava) with their corresponding wins, losses, and NR (No Result) records.
In conclusion, though Arjuna killed Karna, Krishna’s guidance was crucial for Arjuna’s survival and victory. Without Krishna, Arjuna would have perished long before. In the end, Arjuna raised Karna’s son, Vrishaketu, with love and care. So, who is greater—Arjuna or Karna? Or is it Krishna, who used both for the establishment of dharma? Many believe that without Karna, there would have been no Kurukshetra war. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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