Question: While the preaching of Sri-Gita by Sri-Krishna to Arjuna was taking place, what were the others doing? Why were they simply waiting even though the war had already commenced by the blowing of holy conches? Why did Arjuna ask to take the chariot to the middle of the battlefield after the start of the war and not before?
Answer by Romapada Swami:
As in the previous answer about setting the stage for the narration of Bhagavatam, the entire Mahabharata, complete with all its intricate plots and drama, sets the stage for this most historic event – the speaking of Bhagavad-gita by the Supreme Lord for the benefit of all conditioned souls. Thus at the most crucial moment, when the attention of the entire world was focused on this great battle, by Krishna’s will, Arjuna was put into illusion, following which the Lord spoke the Gita.
Of course, it was only after much deliberation, and consultation with many saintly persons and Lord Krishna Himself that the Pandavas assembled in Kuruksetra to fight the battle. It was not a whimsical decision, and they knew what to expect. Even so, seeing the countless warriors actually assembled before him, Arjuna desired to take a good look at them, and seeing all around him relatives and friends, he became overwhelmed. It was the perfect moment for spiritual instructions, and seeing the illustrious warrior and his transcendental charioteer engaged in that discussion, the generals on both sides stood back out of curiosity and respect, to watch the outcome of that great discussion.
