Ashwatthama, the son of Dronacharya and Kripi, was born with a gem on his forehead as a blessing from Lord Shiva, making him immune to hunger, tiredness, old age, diseases, and weapons. This gem granted him immortality. Known for his profound attachment to his father, Ashwatthama's life took a dramatic turn due to the deceit and betrayals in the events leading up to and during the great Kurukshetra War.
According to the Mahabharata, during the war, Krishna devised a plan to bring down Dronacharya by spreading the false news of Ashwatthama's death, exploiting Drona's deep affection for his son. When Drona, disheartened by the news, lowered his weapons, he was killed, an act that marked a turning point in the war. Devastated by his father's death and the circumstances of deceit, Ashwatthama unleashed his fury, leading to a tragic massacre at the Pandavas' camp, killing many innocents.
His actions led Krishna to curse him with immortality as a form of eternal punishment. The gem on his forehead was removed, causing him endless suffering and pain. Cursed to roam the earth without relief from his pain or the peace of death, Ashwatthama became a figure of eternal wandering and suffering. This curse is why it is said that he should not be seen, as sighting him could bring misfortune.
