Geethartha Chinthane 73: Those willing to destroy their clan for selfish gains

Arjuna reflects on the nature of good and evil, saying that while it doesn’t matter if his own kin are wicked, he cannot tolerate good enemies. This peculiar delusion grips him. Instead of acknowledging that killing traitors is a righteous act, Arjuna mistakenly believes it will bring sin.

Duryodhana and his allies had promised to return the kingdom after the Pandavas’ vanavasa and ajnathavasa, but they failed to keep their word. Back then, there was no formal system like registration—agreements were based on verbal commitments. This can be compared to modern-day politics, where leaders agree to share the Chief Minister’s post for two terms but then refuse to step down. Such betrayal is considered a great sin. How, then, can it be sinful to kill those who have committed such treachery?

On the other hand, war brings immense destruction. However, people like Duryodhana are so blinded by selfishness that they are willing to destroy the world rather than give up their personal ambitions. Kaikeyi, in the Ramayana, acted similarly. She ensured that even if Dasharatha died, her demand should be honored, even if it meant the ruin of the royal lineage (Kulakshaya). Likewise, Duryodhana and his followers are willing to sacrifice their clan for the sake of their selfish desires.

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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