Jarasandha’s war was won not just by strength but by intelligence

Shri Krishna, Bhima and Arjun disguised themselves as Brahmins and reached Girivraj, the capital of Magadha. Their objective was to challenge the tyrannical king Jarasandha and free the kings imprisoned in his prison. This is considered to be one of the most important campaigns of Mahabharata.

King Jarasandha honored the three guests, but also expressed doubt on their behaviour. Then Shri Krishna gave his real introduction and clearly said that he has come for war. As soon as the truth came out, the atmosphere of the meeting became serious and tense.

Accepting the challenge of war, Jarasandha chose Bhima as his opponent. Both the great warriors were of equal strength and bravery. A wrestling match started between them, which everyone was eager to see. This war became a tough test of strength, patience and courage.

Bhima and Jarasandha attacked each other with full force. Sometimes the battlefield echoed with grip, sometimes with stake and sometimes with strong collision. Both the warriors were not ready to accept defeat at any cost. Their war was surprising to all the spectators.

Days passed, but there was no result of the war. Instead of getting tired, both the warriors continued fighting with more enthusiasm. Everyone was surprised to see his amazing stamina and fighting skills. This struggle became a symbol of extraordinary strength and patience.

Even after the war that continued for several days, Bhima could not defeat Jarasandha. Then Shri Krishna gave a signal and reminded Bhima of the birth story of Jarasandha and his weakness. This signal later became the biggest reason for victory.

Shri Krishna tore a straw from the middle and indicated to Bhima how it was possible to end Jarasandha. Bhima understood the signal and adopted a new strategy. Now the war was not only about force, but also about intelligence and decisions taken at the right time.

Bhima caught hold of Jarasandha with all his strength and tore his body into two parts. This time both the parts were thrown in different directions, due to which he could not come alive again. In this way the tyrannical king ended and religion won.

After the killing of Jarasandha, many kings imprisoned in his prison were freed. Everyone expressed gratitude to Shri Krishna and Bhima. Peace was established in Magadha and the objective of protecting religion was successful. This victory was not just the victory of a king, but the victory of justice.

The lesson learned from this story is that physical strength alone does not lead to success. Right guidance, patience, intelligence and decisions taken at appropriate time become the greatest power. When courage is accompanied by religion and prudence, then even the most powerful enemy can be conquered.