The Rejected Student
Ekalavya, born in a tribal family, desired to learn archery from Droṇa. But Droṇa rejected him due to his caste and loyalty to the Kuru princes.
Undeterred, Ekalavya fashioned a clay image of Droṇa and practiced rigorously in the forest, attaining astonishing skill by sheer determination.
Guru Dakṣiṇā and Sacrifice
When Droṇa later saw his skill, he asked for his thumb as guru-dakṣiṇā. Without hesitation, Ekalavya cut it off and offered it, even though it meant the end of his archery aspirations.
Lessons to Be Learned
1. Real Guru Is Not a Statue—It Is Connection Through Service
Bhaktivinoda Ṭhākura warns against worship of a guru’s image without service or instruction. Though Ekalavya had great dedication, he acted independently without the guru’s instruction, which leads to downfall.
2. Unchecked Ambition Leads to Tragedy
Śrīla Prabhupāda emphasized that even spiritual practices can go wrong if motivated by pride or ambition. Ekalavya wanted fame as the best archer rather than genuine devotion to dharma.
3. True Bhakti Means to Please Guru, Not Imitate Him
Spiritual advancement means acting under the guidance of a true guru, not showing off abilities. Ekalavya’s devotion was sincere, but it lacked alignment with guru’s desire.
