The Rule of a Woman-Kashmir

 The Rule of a Woman-Kashmir

This is the story of how Lord Krishna once became the worst enemy of the land of Kashmir.

King Gonanda, the first king of Kashmir, was a relative of the evil king, Jarasandha, whom Krishna was fighting.

"I must go to Jarasandha's aid," Gonanda informed his court.

"But, Sire," protested his ministers, "Jarasandha is wicked and cruel and Krishna has cause to be angry. It is wrong to join forces against Krishna."

"I know all this," said Gonanda, "but when a relative calls for help, I cannot ignore him. It is my duty to support Jarasandha." He glanced around the silent court and was touched by the grief-stricken faces of his ministers. "I must leave now," he said, "God willing, I will return. It will all happen as fate decrees."

The ministers remained desolate. Gonanda's prowess in battle was well known and feared. He was easily the strongest ruler that the land ever had. And yet, his might was combined with a gentleness and compassion that endeared him to all.

Soon after, Gonanda marched forth to Mathura with a large force. They reached their destination after several days and pitched their camp on the banks of the Kalindi (Yamuna) river.

Within the town, confusion reigned. "This king will destroy us," lamented the people. "Mathura is doomed!"

When Gonanda attacked the town, this prophecy was more than fulfilled. The soldiers of Mathura were crushed and the people ran helter-skelter, seeking to avoid retribution at Gonanda's hands. It was then that Balarama, Krishna's brother, stepped into the breach.

"Do not be disheartened," he told the shattered soldiers. "I will engage Gonanda in battle and destroy this mighty foe." Accordingly, armed with his plough, Balarama entered the battlefield and challenged Gonanda to a fight. The clash between the two was terrible to behold. At long last, Balarama, wounded and exhausted, drove home the final thrust that lulled the noble Gonanda.

Mathura rejoiced while Kashmir was sunk in gloom. Gonanda's son, Damodara, was crowned the king of Kashmir while tears of rage gushed from his eyes.