The two epics from the Hindu mythology, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, are based around two epic battles. In Ramayana, we have the battle between Rama and Ravana, and in Mahabharata we have the battle of Kurukshetra. So naturally, the epics are sprinkled with weapons of mass destruction (and I am not being metaphorical here).
True, many of these weapons probably have inspired scientists to create a modern day equivalent. But to think that these weapons might have existed even thousands of years ago, is truly astounding!
1. The Mantras
Throughout Hindu mythology, we see the importance that mantras were given. Whether to invoke spirits, or activate weapons, or please and praise gods, mantras were highly essential.
What does it do – Invokes spirits and weapons that can be used on enemies.
Similar to – Voice-activated devices.
2. Shiva’s teen baan
In Mahabharata, Bhima’s grandson Barbarika was granted this weapon by Lord Shiva.
Similar to – Modern torpedo.
3. Pashupatastra
A shape-shifting weapon that had to be obtained directly from Lord Shiva.
What does it do – Destroys its target completely from the face of the earth, irrespective of the target’s nature.
Similar to – Impact wise, it is pretty much similar to a hydrogen bomb.
4. Indraastra
Owned by the king of Gods, Indra, this powerful weapon could kill many people at once.
What does it do – It can produce a shower of arrows upon the enemy army.
Similar to – Machine guns, obviously.
5. Agneyastra
Owned by the fire god Agni, this weapon could emit flames that were inextinguishable.
What does it do – Throws fire flames.
Similar to – Flame-throwers.
6. Twashtar Astra
This fantastic weapon was owned by the heavenly builder Twashtri.
What does it do – It confuses a band of army to mistake their own for enemies, which would inevitably lead the enemy to destroy themselves.
Similar to – Various gases that get used in todays warfares.
7. Sudarshana Chakra
One of the eminent weapons of Lord Vishnu, this disc like weapon has surfaced in Hindu mythology time and again.
What does it do – Works and stops only at Vishnu’s command, and destroys target completely.
Similar to – Modern day missiles.
8. Pushpak rath/vimana
Ravana, the king of demons, possessed this airborne chariot with which he abducted Sita.
What does it do – Vehicle that flies.
Similar to – Personal aeroplane.
9. Vajra
This is another weapon owned by the king of gods, Indra, and is similar to Zeus’ thunderbolt. The literal meaning of the word is ‘lightning.’
What does it do – It will make the target get struck by lightning.
Similar to – Modern day tasers, that give electric shock.
10. Brahmastra
Created by the god Brahma, this weapon was used in the war of Kurukshetra. It was also used upon Rama and his army by Indrajit, in the Ramayana.
What does it do – Complete Annihilation of the target. It can also destroy multiple realms at once.
Similar to – Nuclear bomb
Source-storypick.com
