Vada in Theory and Practice: Studies in Debates, Dialogues and Discussions in Indian Intellectual Discourses c10.s12.7

c10.s12.7

*Śiśupālavadha* of Māgha similarly begins with a debate on the dilemma of Śrī Kṛṣṇa, i.e. whether he should go to attend the Rājasūya ceremony at the invitation of Yudhiṣṭhira or should immediately launch an attack on Śiśupāla, the antagonist, who has been since long remained a threat to all who are virtuous and generous. Like Draupadī and Bhīma in *Kirātārjunīyam*, Balarāma, the elder brother of Kṛṣṇa delivers a passionate discourse in favour of vanquishing the enemy first. Māgha actually uses the word *uttara-pakṣa* (acceptable view) in a sarcastic tone for the outburst of Balarāma. Śrī Kṛṣṇa had signalled Uddhava to give his opinion, but an impatient Balarāma, seized the opportunity to speak first. Uddhava, restrained himself as if allowing the speech of Balarāma to manifest as an *uttara-pakṣa*.³⁵ Balarāma however appreciates the preciseness of Kṛṣṇa and elaborates upon the quality of the speech of adept persons, which can silence even the lords of speech.³⁶