After numerous peace attempts, when the war of Mahabharata was finally declared inevitable, both Arjuna and Duryodhana visited Lord Krishna to see his assistance and blessings. When they arrived at Lord Krishna’s palace in Dwaraka, The Lord put on the act of sleeping. Duryodhana, who was arrogant by nature, stood near Lord Krishna’s head while Arjuna who was humble and devoted awaited God at His feet.

When Krishna woke up, He saw Duryodhana first. He granted both Arjuna and Duryodhana the choice of one of two things: One would get Krishna’s mighty army, full of the most sophisticated weapons and a well-trained force of millions of soldiers while the other would have Lord Krishna alone. Since Lord Krishna’s eyes had fallen on Duryodhana first, He allowed him to make the choice first.

Duryodhana thought, “What will I do with one Lord Krishna alone. I will take His army as it has countless men and women.” Convinced that it was a good idea, he said, “Lord, I choose your powerful army.”

Arjuna, on the other hand said, “Lord, I do not care for pleasures or powers, I need you and you alone.”

The rest is history. Krishna’s presence on Arjuna’s side was the sole reason why Pandavas were able to emerge victorious despite the power and might of Duryodhana’s aides and his army.

Duryodhana chose worldly objects and gains whereas Arjuna decided to follow God Himself. In the end, Arjuna not only won God’s heart, but the rest of the treasures were added on to Him as well.