Bhishma Takes Command
“The noble warrior accepts command, torn between duty and love. But even in war, honor and rules must be maintained.”
Story Summary
At Kurukshetra, with both armies camped and ready, Duryodhana appoints Bhishma as commander-in-chief of the Kaurava forces. Bhishma, though he loves the Pandavas, accepts the position out of duty to the throne. He sets rules of engagement for the war, establishing codes of conduct that must be followed. Despite his position, Bhishma makes a vow that he will not kill any Pandava, showing his internal conflict between duty and love. The Pandavas acknowledge and respect Bhishma's position, understanding his dilemma. Both sides finalize their strategies, and the stage is set for the great war to begin, marking the transition from Udyoga Parva to Bhishma Parva.