Vrata (vrata)

A vrata is a vow, a self-imposed and publicly binding undertaking that generates power through the discipline of keeping it. The Mahabharata's plot is a lattice of vows: Bhishma's lifelong celibacy, Bhima's oath to break Duryodhana's thigh and drink Dushasana's blood, Draupadi's refusal to bind her hair until it is avenged, Arjuna's promise to kill Jayadratha before sunset or burn. The epic admires the strength a vow confers and is clear-eyed about the wreckage caused by people who will not break one.