The entourage set off towards Hastinapur with precision, their procession unfolding across the landscape. At the forefront, Karna, Duryodhana, and Dushasana rode majestic horses, leading the way.
Behind them, a retinue of servants and maids followed, carrying elaborate provisions and luggage. Arya, Shivangi, and Ashwatthama brought up the rear, their horses' hooves beating in unison.
The sun cast long shadows across the rolling hills, illuminating the dust kicked up by the horses' hooves. Anticipation filled the air, each member lost in their own thoughts.
Shivangi gazed out at the passing scenery, her mind whirling with questions. Arya rode beside her, eyes scanning the horizon, ever vigilant.
Ashwatthama seemed lost in contemplation, his gaze fixed on some distant point.
Shivangi turned to Arya, her curiosity piqued. "Arya, I want to ask you something."
Arya smiled. "Go ahead."
"I know you're not just here to show me that Mahabharata actually happened," Shivangi said. "There's more to it. What's the real reason you came to this time?"
Arya chuckled. "You're quite smart, I guess."
Shivangi's eyes narrowed. "Just tell me, stop teasing me."
Arya's expression turned serious. "I came to research about nuclear weapons – Brahmaastra , Asuraastra , Devastra, Agninastra etc... These ancient astras are thousand times more powerful than today's atomic and nuclear bombs."
Shivangi's eyes widened. "Really? But how will you research about them? ."
Arya's confidence was unwavering. "That's exactly why I'm here. I'll find a way. Many Maharathis, like Guru Dronacharya and Kripacharya, possess knowledge about these ancient weapons. I'll learn from them."
Shivangi's gaze lingered on Arya, her mind racing with questions , She pressed on, "But why research Brahmastra and other ancient nuclear weapons? We already have atomic bombs and similar technology."
Arya's eyes gleamed with intensity. "That's precisely why. Modern nuclear weapons require complex systems, but Brahmastra and others rely on mantra-based invocation. Chanting the mantra 600,000 times can unleash its energy into any object, even a blade of grass."
Shivangi's eyes widened in shock. "You mean...?"
Arya nodded. "Yes. That grass can destroy an entire civilization. No expensive infrastructure, no complex technology – just ancient knowledge."
Shivangi's mind reeled. She recalled whispers about the Valley Civilization's downfall, allegedly caused by the Astras . Could it be true?
Composing herself, Shivangi asked, "So, how will this knowledge benefit us?"
Arya's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Imagine if our country could harness the power of the astras . We could revolutionize our nation's defense, energy, and technology. India would become the most powerful nation in the world."
Shivangi nodded, comprehension dawning on her face. "I understand what you're saying. This knowledge could transform our country's future."
Arya's passion intensified. "Exactly! We could:
1. Develop sustainable energy solutions
2. Enhance medical research and healthcare
3. Create advanced technologies
4. Strengthen our national securityIndia would emerge as a global leader, shaping the world's future."
Shivangi's expression reflected her growing understanding. "This is why you're willing to take risks, isn't it? To unlock this ancient secret and empower our nation."
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Bhism Sangini : Echoes of the Mahabharat
FanfictionA brilliant historian and archaeologist, dismissive of India's rich cultural heritage, rejects the Mahabharata and Ramayana as mere superstition. But fate intervenes, and she finds herself transported to the Dwapar Yuga. In this ancient era, she enc...