Karna’s curse by Parasurama was a result of a series of events that unfolded during Karna’s training with his guru. After falsely claiming to be a Sudra, Karna, unaware of his true Kshatriya heritage, excelled in mastering all the skills taught by Parasurama. However, his modesty, courage, reverence for his teacher, and love for learning brought about a curse that would play a pivotal role in his destiny.
Parasurama, a Brahmin, had previously vowed not to impart weapon skills to any warrior after losing a battle to his student Bhisma. Karna’s admission as a student was based on a false claim of being a Sudra. One day, while Parasurama was resting on Karna’s lap, a bug bit Karna, causing a wound on his thigh. Despite the pain and bleeding, Karna endured it silently to avoid disturbing his guru’s sleep.
Upon waking and seeing the blood, Parasurama realized Karna’s true identity and became angry, thinking Karna had lied to him. It was in this moment of anger and disappointment that Parasurama cursed Karna.
The curse stated that Karna would forget the skills and usage of all his mighty weapons precisely when he needed them the most during moments of crisis.
This curse haunted Karna during his final battle with Arjuna. When stuck in the mud and left without a charioteer, Karna attempted to use the potent Brahmasthira weapon to turn the tide. However, due to Parasurama’s curse, Karna forgot the mantra required to unleash the weapon, contributing to his defeat and eventual demise at the hands of Arjuna.