In Chapter I of the Bhagavad-Gita, Dhritirashtra, the blind king, inquires of his charioteer Sanjaya about the events unfolding on the sacred battlefield of Kurukshetra, where his sons (the Kauravas) and the Pandavas are arrayed for war. Sanjaya describes the scene, conveying the might and readiness of both armies. Duryodhana, the Kaurava prince, particularly notes the formidable array of Pandava warriors and their allies, emphasizing the challenge they pose. In response, he reviews his own warriors, highlighting their valor and readiness for battle.

As the conches and war instruments sound, signaling the start of hostilities, an epic scene unfurls. Key warriors on both sides blow their conches, contributing to the atmosphere of impending war. Among them, Krishna and Arjuna, on their magnificent chariot, stand ready. Arjuna, the Pandava prince, requests Krishna, who is also his charioteer and divine guide, to place their chariot between the two armies. He desires a closer look at those he is about to fight against, including many relatives and revered figures.

Upon viewing the assembly of family members and loved ones on both sides, Arjuna is overcome with deep sorrow and compassion. He argues the futility of the war, expressing his reluctance to kill his kin for the sake of power or a kingdom. Arjuna’s moral dilemma deepens, highlighting his internal conflict between duty as a warrior (Kshatriya) and his love for his family. He reasons against war, considering the destruction of family order and the sin of killing kin as too great a cost for victory. As he contemplates the consequences of the battle, including the disruption of societal and familial norms, Arjuna’s resolve falters. He voices his refusal to fight, casting aside his weapons and succumbing to despair and confusion, thus setting the stage for the teachings that follow in the Gita. This crucial moment emphasizes the themes of duty, righteousness, and the moral and ethical struggles that define human life.