Angaraparana: The Gandharva with the Flaming Chariot
Angaraparana was a Gandharva, a celestial musician and warrior, who was known for his flaming chariot. His name, Angaraparana, literally means “flame-wheeled” or “flame-powered”, reflecting his association with fire and his impressive chariot. According to the Mahabharata (Maha:1.172), Angaraparana encountered Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, when they were traveling to Panchala from Ekachakrapura.
The Battle with Arjuna
Angaraparana fought with Arjuna, but was defeated by a divine missile. Despite his defeat, Angaraparana’s wife, Kumbhinasi, pleaded with Arjuna to spare her husband’s life. Moved by her words, Arjuna spared Angaraparana’s life, and the Gandharva was humbled by the experience.
The Friendship with Arjuna
After his defeat, Angaraparana became Arjuna’s friend and teacher. He taught Arjuna the art of creating illusions in war, a science known as Chakshushi. This art allowed Arjuna to create elaborate deceptions and confuse his enemies, giving him a significant advantage in battle. Angaraparana also gifted Arjuna a thousand swift horses, which were highly prized for their speed and agility.
The Gift of the Missile
In exchange for the horses, Angaraparana received the missile that had vanquished him. This missile, which had been used by Arjuna to defeat Angaraparana, was a powerful and sacred object that was highly valued by the Gandharva.
The Story of Tapati and Samvarana
Angaraparana also narrated the story of Tapati and Samvarana, two ancestors of the Pandavas, to Arjuna and his brothers. This story was an important part of the Pandavas’ heritage and highlighted their connection to the gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon.
The Advice to the Pandavas
Angaraparana advised the Pandavas to acquire a priest to guide them on their journey. He suggested Dhaumya, a Brahmana, as a suitable candidate for the post. This advice was an important moment in the Pandavas’ lives, as it marked the beginning of their association with the wise and powerful Dhaumya.
Related Information
The story of Angaraparana is closely related to the mythology of the Gandharvas, who were celestial musicians and warriors. The Gandharvas were known for their beauty, their musical talents, and their bravery in battle. Angaraparana’s story highlights the importance of friendship and the value of learning from others, even in the face of defeat.
The Significance of Angaraparana’s Gift
Angaraparana’s gift of the thousand swift horses to Arjuna was a significant moment in the Pandavas’ lives. The horses were highly prized for their speed and agility, and they played an important role in the Pandavas’ military campaigns. The gift also highlighted the Gandharva’s generosity and his willingness to help those in need.
The Art of Chakshushi
The art of Chakshushi, which Angaraparana taught to Arjuna, was a complex and sophisticated science that allowed the practitioner to create elaborate deceptions and confuse their enemies. This art was highly valued by the Pandavas, who used it to great effect in their military campaigns.
The Importance of Friendship
The story of Angaraparana and Arjuna highlights the importance of friendship and the value of learning from others. Despite his defeat, Angaraparana became Arjuna’s friend and teacher, and he played an important role in the Pandavas’ lives. This story emphasizes the importance of building relationships and seeking guidance from others, even in the face of adversity.