Khandavadaha

Khandavadaha is a significant event described in the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. It refers to the burning of the Khandava forest, a sacred and dense woodland inhabited by various creatures and divine beings. The primary instigators of this event are Krishna and Arjuna, two central heroes of the epic.

The narrative states that Krishna and Arjuna sought permission from the fire god Agni to burn the forest. Agni desired to consume the forest to regain his strength, which had been diminished by consuming offerings that had been rendered unpalatable by the sage Drona. In exchange for their assistance, Agni promised them divine weapons. Arjuna, a formidable archer, played a crucial role in preventing any escaping creatures from being harmed by Agni, while Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, provided strategic support.

During the burning, the serpent king Takshaka, the ruler of the Khandava forest, was away. This allowed the fire to spread extensively. However, not all inhabitants were consumed. The divine architect Maya Danava managed to escape the inferno, and in gratitude for his survival, he later constructed a magnificent palace for the Pandavas in Indraprastha. The burning of Khandava forest is often interpreted as a symbolic act of purification and the clearing of obstacles to pave the way for the establishment of the Pandavas' kingdom.