The Rise and Fall of Sunda and Upasunda: A Lesson in Power, Desire, and Self-Destruction
- nasturtus
- Feb 26
- 5 min read
The Mahabharata contains profound lessons on human nature, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. One such lesson is found in the tale of Sunda and Upasunda, narrated by Sage Narada to the Pandavas as a cautionary warning.
Sunda and Upasunda were two powerful asura brothers who were inseparable. From childhood, they did everything together—eating, sleeping, and even waging war. Their bond was so strong that they shared every experience without conflict.
Determined to rule the three worlds, they undertook severe penance and austerities to please Lord Brahma. Impressed by their devotion, Brahma granted them a boon, making them nearly invincible. The brothers then unleashed terror across the world, defeating the gods and establishing their dominance. However, their downfall was set in motion by their own desires.
Realizing that no external force could defeat them, the gods devised a plan. At Brahma's behest, Vishwakarma, the architect of the gods, created Tilottama, an apsara of such extraordinary beauty that even the gods couldn't resist stealing glances at her.
Brahma sent Tilottama to enchant Sunda and Upasunda, and as soon as they saw her, they both fell in love and desired her for themselves. Their unbreakable bond was shattered by lust and jealousy. In their struggle to possess her, they fought fiercely and ultimately killed each other, fulfilling the gods’ strategy to end their reign.
Why Did Narada Narrate This Story?
Narada Muni recounted this tale to the Pandavas during their early years of prosperity in Indraprastha in order that no misunderstanding occurs among the brothers on account of Draupadi, their shared wife.
To prevent disputes, they had established a strict rule: if one brother was alone with Draupadi, any other brother who entered would have to go into exile.
Narada, knowing human nature, warned them that no matter how strong their bond seemed, unchecked desire and lack of discipline could destroy them. The cautionary tale of Sunda and Upasunda served as a reminder that even the closest relationships can crumble due to passion and power struggles.
Parallels from Other Cultures
The tragic fate of Sunda and Upasunda is not unique to the Mahabharata. Throughout history and mythology, we find similar stories of sibling rivalries that ended in destruction.
Cain and Abel
One of the oldest known tales of sibling rivalry comes from the Bible.
Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam and Eve, presented offerings to God. When God favored Abel’s offering over Cain’s, jealousy consumed Cain, leading him to murder his brother.
This story highlights the destructive power of envy and unchecked emotions. Like Sunda and Upasunda, Cain and Abel’s brotherhood was shattered by desire—this time, the desire for divine favor and recognition.
Romulus and Remus
The founding myth of Rome tells the story of twin brothers Romulus and Remus, who were raised by a she-wolf after being abandoned as infants. As adults, they sought to establish a new city but clashed over its location. Romulus ultimately killed Remus and became the sole founder of Rome.
This tale echoes the dangers of ambition overpowering family bonds. Just as Sunda and Upasunda’s desire for Tilottama led to mutual destruction, Romulus’ hunger for power led him to commit fratricide, demonstrating how unchecked ambition can destroy even the strongest of relationships.
Eteocles and Polynices
In Sophocles’ tragic cycle, the sons of Oedipus, Eteocles and Polynices, were meant to rule Thebes in alternating years. However, after Eteocles’ first term, he refused to relinquish power. Polynices, feeling betrayed, raised an army to reclaim the throne, leading to the devastating war known as the Seven Against Thebes.
In the climactic battle, the two brothers fought and killed each other, mirroring the fate of Sunda and Upasunda. This story illustrates how the thirst for power, once unleashed, leads to inevitable ruin, even within families.
Modern Lessons from Ancient Tales
Though these stories are ancient, their lessons remain incredibly relevant in modern times.
Power and Success Are Fragile
The rise of Sunda and Upasunda to ultimate power was followed by a swift fall, caused by their own internal conflict. This pattern is seen in history, business, and politics—when internal rivalries overshadow the greater vision, downfall is inevitable. Companies collapse, families disintegrate, and nations suffer when ambition overrides unity.
Discipline and Boundaries Are Essential
The Pandavas' rule about Draupadi was meant to prevent disputes. In our own lives, clear boundaries—whether in personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or governance—are critical for maintaining harmony. When boundaries are ignored, conflicts arise.
Desire Must Be Managed
From Sunda and Upasunda to Cain and Abel, unchecked ambition—whether for power, love, or recognition—has been the downfall of many. Learning to balance ambition with wisdom is crucial for sustainable success.
Internal Conflicts Are More Dangerous Than External Ones
History shows that nations, companies, and families often crumble not because of external threats but because of internal divisions. Recognizing and resolving conflicts before they escalate is key to long-term stability.
Why the Story of Sunda and Upasunda Still Matters Today
The story of Sunda and Upasunda is more than just a cautionary tale from the Mahabharata—it is a reflection of human nature that spans cultures and eras. Whether in mythology, history, or our modern world, unchecked desire and internal discord continue to be the greatest threats to unity and success.
By learning from these ancient stories, we can strive to build relationships, organizations, and societies that are resilient, disciplined, and driven by wisdom rather than unchecked ambition.
Will we learn from the past, or will we repeat the same mistakes? The choice, as always, is ours.
Post script
The Pandavas established their rule and lived happily with Draupadi.
One day, a brahmana's cattle were stolen by thieves. He came to the Pandavas seeking help, crying out in distress. Arjuna heard the brahmana's plea but faced a dilemma. Yudhishthira was in the weapons room with Draupadi, and they had a rule not to enter without permission.
After careful consideration, Arjuna decided to enter the room, believing that protecting the brahmana was more important than following the rule. Arjuna took his weapons, pursued the thieves, and successfully recovered the brahmana's cattle.
Upon returning, Arjuna informed Yudhishthira that he had broken their rule and must now go to the forest for twelve years as punishment. Yudhishthira attempted to dissuade Arjuna, explaining that no offense was committed and that younger brothers were allowed to enter when elder brothers were with their wives.
However, Arjuna insisted on adhering to the truth and their original agreement. He prepared for his exile and left for the forest for twelve years.
This episode highlights the Pandavas' commitment to dharma, even when it resulted in personal hardship. It also showcases Arjuna's valor and dedication to protecting those in need, as well as his unwavering adherence to his principles.
Quiz
Who created Tilottama?
Brahma
Indra
Vishwamitra
Vishwakarma
Answer
Why did Arjuna enter the room when Yudhisthira was with Draupadi?
To warn Yudhisthira of an attack
To seek Yudhisthira's urgent advice
To seek Yudhisthira's blessings before leaving for a battle
To get his weapons
Answer
What did Arjuna do to punish himself for having entered the room when Yudhishtira was with Draupadi?
He decided to fast for one week
He sought Narada's forgiveness
He vowed never to return to Indraprastha
He exiled himself for 12 years
Answer
