The Divine Charioteer: How Krishna Sided with Arjun

Image generated using ChatGPT 4 from the prompt: image depicting Lord Krishna with blue skin, asleep in his bed, as Arjuna and Duryodhana enter the bedroom.

The Humble and the Arrogant: Arjun and Duryodhan's Quest for Krishna's Aid

Arjun and Duryodhan went to Dwarka to seek Krishna's help for the looming war between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. They entered Krishna's room, where he was sleeping. The arrogant Duryodhan sat near Krishna's head, while the humble Arjun sat near Krishna's feet. When Krishna awoke, he first saw Arjun and smiled. Then, his attention went to Duryodhan, who was standing behind him. Duryodhan said, "Arjun and I have come to ask for your help in the war. I came first, so you should help me first."

The Divine Dilemma: Krishna's Offer and Arjun's Choice

Krishna said, "I will not wield any weapons during the war; I will merely be available as a counselor. You may choose between me and my army. I saw you first, Arjun. So, you may choose first." Thus, Krishna put forth two alternatives before Arjun and Duryodhan. 

"I would like you on my side," Arjun immediately declared. 

"So be it," replied Krishna.

Duryodhan was elated as he got what he wanted, namely Krishna's army. Thus, Krishna became Arjun's charioteer during the Mahabharat.