2 Sabhakriya Parva 5 301 6:35:00
1 Sabhakriya 4 13 10:50
1 Maya Danava, grateful to Arjuna, offered to build a palace for Yudhishthira. Krishna requested a magnificent sabha with a combination of godly, asuric, and human designs. Maya built a celestial-like palace, impressing the Pandavas. He then performed rites and measured out a plot for a grand palace. |
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2 Krishna bid farewell to the Pandavas, embracing them emotionally. He performed rites, worshipped gods and Brahmanas, and distributed gifts. As he left, the Pandavas gazed at him until out of sight. Krishna reached Dwaraka, welcomed by Satyaki and Daruka, and entered Rukmini's apartments after worshipping his parents and saluting his brother. |
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3 Maya Danava built a palace for the Pandavas with columns of gold, occupying 5,000 cubits. He retrieved a club and conch-shell from lake Vindu and placed a tank with lotuses and crystal stairs inside. The palace grounds had tall trees, artificial woods, and tanks with swans and ducks, creating a charming environment. |
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4 King Yudhishthira entered the palace, accompanied by athletes, mimes, and bards. Rishis and kings, including Asita and Markandeya, attended. Kshatriyas like Mujaketu and Ugrasena were present, along with Gandharvas and Apsaras entertaining with music. The assembly was like a heavenly conference, filled with laughter and conversation. |
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2 Lokapala Sabhakhayana 9 46.2 38:30
1 King Yudhishthira entered the palace, surrounded by dignitaries. The grand hall was filled with laughter and music, as athletes, mimes, and bards entertained. Rishis, kings, and Kshatriyas were present, along with Gandharvas and Apsaras singing celestial tunes. The palace was adorned with precious stones and beautiful paintings. |
2 King Yudhishthira asked Narada about assembly rooms like his, built of gems. Narada replied he hadn't seen one like it, but would describe the rooms of Yama, Varuna, Indra, Kuvera, and Brahma, exhibiting celestial and human designs, worshipped by gods and ascetics. Yudhishthira eagerly asked Narada to describe them. |
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3 Narada described Indra's celestial assembly room, built by Indra himself, as a place of great beauty and splendor. It's filled with celestial trees, rooms, and seats, and attended by various beings, including Marutas, Siddhyas, and celestial Rishis. Indra sits on a throne with his wife Sachi, surrounded by beauty, fame, and glory. |
4 Narada described Yama's assembly house, built by Viswakarma, as a place of beauty and splendor. Many royal sages, Brahmanas, and Gandharvas worship Yama there. The mansion is filled with celestial trees, fruits, and fragrances, and is a place of joy, music, and dance. Over a hundred kings and many sages, including Agastya and Matanga, are present. |
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5 Narada described Varuna's Sabha as a place of unparalleled splendor, built by Viswakarma. It's surrounded by gem-made trees and plants, and various birds and snakes worship Varuna. Many Daityas and Danavas, oceans, rivers, and mountains also worship him. Gandharvas and Apsaras sing hymns, and Sunabha attends with his sons. |
6 Narada described Vaisravana's assembly house, built by his ascetic power. It's a hundred yojanas long, supported by Guhyakas, and filled with celestial beauty, music, and dance. Vaisravana sits with his thousand wives, attended by deities, Gandharvas, Apsaras, and Yakshas, including Mahadeva, who worships him as a friend. |
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7 Narada described Brahma's assembly house as a celestial mansion defying description. It's a place of delight, where hunger and fatigue disappear. Brahma sits there, surrounded by gods, goddesses, planets, stars, and sages. The four Vedas, sciences, and histories are present. The Wheel of Time and Virtue are always there. Goddesses worship Brahma, who gratifies all with sweet speech and gifts. The Sabha is crowded, energetic, and worshipped by Brahmarshis, unrivalled in all worlds. |
8 Narada told Yudhishthira about King Harishchandra's greatness, achieved through conquests and the Rajasuya sacrifice. He conveyed Pandu's message, urging Yudhishthira to perform the sacrifice to subjugate the earth and join his ancestors in Indra's region. However, he warned of potential obstacles and risks. With that, Narada departed, leaving Yudhishthira to consider the sacrifice. |
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9 Yudhishthira wanted to perform the Rajasuya sacrifice, but sought Krishna's guidance, knowing his wisdom and impartiality. He discussed it with his brothers and counselors, who encouraged him, but wanted Krishna's advice to ensure the sacrifice's success and benefit for all. |
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3 Rajasuyarambha 6 23.6 19:40
1 Krishna told Yudhishthira that Jarasandha, who had conquered many kings, was an obstacle to performing the Rajasuya sacrifice. He suggested releasing the imprisoned kings and defeating Jarasandha to succeed. Krishna shared how his people fled Mathura due to Jarasandha's oppression and rebuilt Dwaravati, making it impregnable. |
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2 Yudhishthira praised Krishna's intelligence, expressing doubts about performing the Rajasuya sacrifice due to Jarasandha's power. Krishna urged Yudhishthira to oppose Jarasandha, promising victory would bring great renown and the title of emperor. |
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3 Yudhishthira feared for the safety of Krishna, Bhima, and Arjuna if sent to fight Jarasandha. Arjuna argued that valor and prowess are essential for success and encouraged Yudhishthira to undertake the challenge, promising ease in gaining the imperial dignity if they succeed. |
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4 Krishna told Yudhishthira about Jarasandha's birth. A king's two wives ate a magical mango, conceived, and gave birth to half-bodies. A Rakshasa woman united the fragments, forming a strong child. The king and queens reclaimed him, naming him Jarasandha, who grew up with extraordinary strength and prowess. |
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5 Jara, a Rakshasa woman, united the king's son's fragmentary bodies, bringing him to life. She revealed her true identity and purpose, then disappeared, leaving the king to name the child Jarasandha. The child grew strong, like a fire fueled by libations, bringing joy to his parents. |
6 Chandakausika prophesied Jarasandha's greatness, saying he'd surpass all kings and be unbeatable. Jarasandha ruled wisely, but became Krishna's enemy after Krishna killed King Kansa. He hurled a mace towards Mathura, showing his strength, and had two powerful supporters, Hansa and Dimvaka. |
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4 Jarasandhta-badha 12 45.8 38:10
1 Krishna, Arjuna, and Bhima, disguised as Brahmanas, set out to defeat Jarasandha. Yudhishthira praised Krishna's leadership, and the trio's combined strength made them unstoppable. They journeyed through various lands, finally arriving in Magadha to face Jarasandha, who was believed to be already defeated. |
2 Krishna, Arjuna, and Bhima entered Magadha's capital, Girivraja, disguised as Brahmanas. They broke the Chaityaka peak, a symbol of the city's strength, and walked through the city, admiring its beauty. Jarasandha received them with respect, but Krishna revealed their true intentions at midnight, challenging him to a fight. |
3 Krishna revealed their true identities and challenged Jarasandha to a fight, accusing him of wrongful capture and intended sacrifice of other kings. Jarasandha defended his actions as a Kshatriya's duty and refused to liberate the captive monarchs, choosing to fight instead. |
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4 Krishna asked Jarasandha to choose his opponent, and he chose Bhima. The two engaged in a fierce wrestling match, using various techniques. They fought for 13 days without food or rest, until Jarasandha showed signs of fatigue. Bhima delivered a final blow, killing Jarasandha and emerging victorious. |
5 Krishna, Bhima, and Arjuna defeated Jarasandha, freeing Krishna's relatives. They rode in Jarasandha's celestial car, worshiped by the people of Magadha. Krishna supported Yudhishthira's Rajasuya sacrifice and installed Jarasandha's son as the new king. Returning to Indraprastha, they were welcomed by Yudhishthira, and the Pandavas lived happily, their fame growing. |
6 Arjuna proposed conquering the north to fill their treasury, and Yudhishthira gave his blessing. Arjuna and his brothers set out, conquering their respective directions, while Yudhishthira stayed in Khandavaprastha. Bhagadatta offered his support to Arjuna, asking how he could help. |
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7 Arjuna conquered various kingdoms and tribes in the north, exacting tributes and uniting with kings. He defeated rulers and tribes, including Vrihanta, Senavindu, Puru king, Kashmira, and others, obtaining valuable tributes like exceptional horses. He ultimately arrived at the White mountains, having conquered all Himalayas and Nishkuta mountains. |
8 Arjuna conquered Limpurushas and Guhakas, subdued Gandharvas at lake Manasa, and obtained excellent horses. He avoided North Harivarsha, but received tribute for Yudhishthira, returning to Sakraprastha with wealth and animals. |
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9 Bhimasena marched east, conquering various kingdoms, appointing Sudharman as commander, and defeating Rochamana. He then conquered Pulinda and finally marched against Sisupala, who received him respectfully and offered his kingdom. |
10 Bhima conquered various kingdoms, defeating powerful kings like Suvahu, Kratha, Janaka, and Karna. He subjugated the Sakas, barbarians, Kiratas, and Mlechchha tribes, exacting tributes and wealth, including sandalwood, gems, and pearls. Returning to Indraprastha, he offered the wealth to Yudhishthira. |
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11 Sahadeva conquered many kings and tribes, including Surasenas, Matsyas, Patacharas, Nishadas, and others. He defeated king Nila with Agni's help and made the Kerakas, a one-legged tribe, pay tribute. He also conquered various countries and received tribute from the Yavanas and Vibhishana, king of Lanka, before returning to his kingdom and presenting his wealth to Yudhisthira. |
12 Nakula conquered the western direction, defeating various tribes and kingdoms, including the Mattamyurakas, Dasarnas, and others. He subdued the Mlechcha tribes, wild tribes like the Palhavas and Kiratas, and made them pay tributes. Nakula's conquests included the countries of Rohitaka and the five rivers region, and he returned to Indraprastha with a vast treasure. |
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5 Rajasuyika 7 23 19:10
1 Yudhishthira's kingdom prospered under his just rule, with abundant rainfall and prosperous cities. He decided to perform a grand sacrifice, and Krishna arrived with treasure to encourage him. The sacrifice was performed with grandeur, attended by numerous kings and Brahmanas, and Yudhishthira generously gifted cows, gold, and treasures to the Brahmanas. |
2 Nakula invites Bhishma, Dhritarashtra, and other Kuru elders to Yudhishthira's sacrifice. Many kings and princes attend, including Karna, Salya, and Bhagadatta, with their retinues. The Vrishnis also come. Yudhishthira assigns grand mansions to the visiting monarchs, who are worshiped and entertained with feasts and gifts. The sacrifice is performed with grandeur, with large gifts to Brahmanas. |
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3 Yudhishthira asks for help from Bhishma, Drona, Kripa, and others in conducting the Rajasuya sacrifice. He appoints them to various tasks. Kings bring tributes and honor Yudhishthira with jewels. The sacrificial compound is grand, with palaces and celestial cars. Yudhishthira commences the sacrifice with generous gifts, gratifying everyone. |
4 Narada recognizes Krishna as the supreme lord Narayana, born to fulfill a promise to the celestials. Bhishma suggests offering Arghya to the kings, with Krishna first. Yudhishthira agrees, but Sisupala objects, rebuking Bhishma and Yudhishthira. The assembly is filled with tension as Sisupala's criticism sparks a debate about Krishna's worthiness of worship. |
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5 Sisupala criticizes Yudhishthira for worshipping Krishna, citing his lack of royal insignia and past actions. He accuses Yudhishthira of acting out of motives of gain and insults Krishna, comparing him to a dog lapping up clarified butter. Sisupala argues that Krishna doesn't deserve the first worship, and leaves the assembly in protest, accompanied by other kings. |
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6 Bhishma defends Krishna's worthiness of worship, citing his unmatched strength, wisdom, and accomplishments. He notes that many warriors have been vanquished by Krishna and that he is the origin and dissolution of the universe. Bhishma rebukes Sisupala for his ignorance and immaturity, urging him to recognize Krishna's supremacy. |
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7 Sahadeva declares devotion to Krishna, offering to place his foot on heads of kings who refuse to acknowledge Krishna's worthiness. The assembly remains silent, and a divine voice approves. Sisupala, enraged, rallies kings to oppose Vrishnis and Pandavas, seeking to disrupt sacrifice and withhold approval of Krishna's worship. |
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6 Sisupala-badha 42 146.2 2:01:50
1 Yudhishthira seeks Bhishma's counsel as kings angrily protest Krishna's worship. Bhishma compares them to dogs barking at a sleeping lion (Krishna), and warns Sisupala's ignorance will lead to downfall. Sisupala responds with harsh words. |
2 Sisupala criticizes Bhishma, accusing him of hypocrisy and ignorance. He mocks Bhishma's praise of Krishna, citing his actions as a child and killing of Kansa. Sisupala brings up Bhishma's past, including abducting Amba and his celibacy, taunting him about his flawed morality and fruitless virtue. He tells a story of a deceitful swan, warning Bhishma of a similar fate. |
3 Sisupala ridicules Krishna, calling him a coward and a slave, and criticizes Bhima and Arjuna. He insults Bhishma, saying he leads the Pandavas astray. Bhima is enraged, but Bhishma calms him down, urging self-control. Sisupala taunts Bhima, challenging him to fight, boasting of his own prowess. Bhishma intervenes, speaking words of wisdom, urging patience and restraint. The tension is palpable, and the monarchs watch with bated breath. |
4 Bhishma tells the story of Sisupala's birth with three eyes and four arms, and how his parents were instructed to raise him despite ominous signs. Krishna caused the prophecy to come true, and the queen begged him to spare Sisupala's life. Krishna agreed to pardon his offenses, despite Sisupala's wicked nature. Bhishma shares this story to illustrate Sisupala's history and his reliance on Krishna's mercy. |
5 The king of Chedi, enraged by Bhishma's praise of Krishna, questions why he doesn't praise other powerful kings and warriors. He accuses Bhishma of being ignorant and foolish for constantly praising Krishna. Bhishma responds, saying he doesn't regard the kings as equal to even a straw, and dares anyone who wishes for death to summon Krishna to battle. |
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6 Krishna kills Sisupala with his discus, forgiving his 100 offenses. The assembled kings are amazed as Sisupala's energy enters Krishna's body. Yudhishthira completes the Rajasuya sacrifice, and the kings depart. Krishna returns to Dwaraka, advising Yudhishthira to cherish his subjects. Duryodhana and Sakuni plot their next move, filled with anger and jealousy. The scene marks the end of the Rajasuya sacrifice and the beginning of a new era of tension. |
7 Vyasa appears before Yudhishthira, congratulating him on the Rajasuya sacrifice. Yudhishthira asks about the portents, and Vyasa predicts the destruction of Kshatriyas in 13 years due to Duryodhana's sins and Bhima and Arjuna's might. Vyasa departs, leaving Yudhishthira anxious. Arjuna persuades him to live virtuously, avoiding conflict. Yudhishthira takes a vow to live in harmony, and his brothers approve. |
8 Duryodhana, filled with jealousy, mistakes crystal surfaces for water and doors for open passages, causing him to fall and injure himself. He is laughed at by the Pandavas and returns to Hastinapore, his heart burning with envy and resentment towards their prosperity. He confides in Sakuni, expressing his desire to die or take drastic measures. |
9 Sakuni advises Duryodhana to challenge Yudhishthira to a game of dice, exploiting his weakness for gambling. He promises to win Yudhishthira's kingdom and prosperity for Duryodhana, boasting of his exceptional skill at dice. |
10 Duryodhana, jealous of Yudhishthira's prosperity, plots with Sakuni to challenge him to a game of dice. Sakuni promises to win Yudhishthira's kingdom and prosperity for Duryodhana, exploiting his weakness for gambling. Despite knowing the risks, Dhritarashtra allows the game, believing fate will determine the outcome. Vidura warns of potential dangers, but his words are ignored, setting the stage for a disastrous sequence of events. |
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11 Duryodhana, jealous of Yudhishthira's prosperity, confides in Dhritarashtra, recounting instances where he felt belittled and mocked by the Pandavas. He seeks revenge, determined to surpass Yudhishthira, despite warnings from Dhritarashtra and Vidura. His pride and ego wounded, Duryodhana sets the stage for a devastating conflict. |
12 Duryodhana describes the wealth brought to Yudhishthira's court, including skins, blankets, horses, serving girls, gold, silver, and jewels from various kings and tribes, fueling his jealousy and desire for revenge. |
13 Duryodhana describes Yudhishthira's court, filled with extravagant wealth, including gold, skins, serving girls, and precious stones. Even Gandharvas and Vrishnis have presented tribute. Yudhishthira's power and generosity are evident, fueling Duryodhana's jealousy. The court has a vast retinue of servants and soldiers, with 88,000 Brahmanas and 10,000 ascetics receiving support. Only Panchalas, Andhakas, and Vrishnis don't pay tribute due to close relationships. |
14 Duryodhana describes Yudhishthira's grand Rajasuya sacrifice, where kings and sages gathered to pay tribute. He recounts the gifts and services offered, feeling jealous and distressed by Yudhishthira's prosperity, while his own family declines. |
15 Dhritarashtra advises Duryodhana to not be jealous of the Pandavas, as it leads to unhappiness. He encourages him to perform a sacrifice to gain dignity and wealth, and to be content with his own possessions. He values perseverance, humility, and protecting one's own earnings, and reminds Duryodhana that the Pandavas are his brothers and friends. |
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16 Duryodhana scolds Dhritarashtra for inaction, citing examples from history and nature to stress the importance of competitiveness and strategic thinking. He's determined to surpass the Pandavas or die trying, seeing their prosperity as a threat to his own. Success is the ultimate criterion, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to achieve it. |
17 Sakuni offers to help Duryodhana win Yudhishthira's prosperity through a game of dice. Duryodhana convinces Dhritarashtra to allow the game, despite warnings of danger and destruction. A grand assembly house is built, and Yudhishthira is invited to play a friendly game of dice, setting the stage for a pivotal confrontation. |
18 Vidura warns Dhritarashtra that playing dice with Yudhishthira will lead to destruction and dissension among their sons, but Dhritarashtra resigns himself to fate and orders Vidura to summon Yudhishthira anyway. |
19 Vidura invites Yudhishthira to play a friendly game of dice in Hastinapore, but Yudhishthira is hesitant, knowing gambling can lead to quarrels. He agrees to go, citing fate, and asks about the other gamblers, including Sakuni, a skilled and desperate player. Yudhishthira sets out for Hastinapore with his relatives and is greeted by Kuru leaders, entering the assembly house for the fateful game. |
20 Yudhishthira is invited to play dice by Sakuni, but he's reluctant, calling gambling sinful and deceitful. Sakuni persuades him to play, arguing it's a common practice. Yudhishthira agrees, but only if the stakes are fair and equal. Duryodhana offers to supply the wealth, and Sakuni plays on his behalf. |
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21 The game of dice begins between Yudhishthira and Duryodhana, with Sakuni casting the dice. Yudhishthira stakes a wealth of pearls, while Duryodhana accepts the challenge without specifying his counter stake. Sakuni declares that he has won, indicating Yudhishthira's loss. |
22 Yudhishthira stakes his wealth against Sakuni's unfair dice playing, offering: Royal car, Serving girls and men, Elephants, Cars and steeds, Warriors, Jewels. Each time, Sakuni declares "Lo, I have won!" using unfair means, depleting Yudhishthira's fortunes. |
23 Vidura warns Dhritarashtra about Duryodhana's destructive nature, comparing him to a jackal in the house. He advises sacrificing a harmful member for the good of the family and cautions against pursuing the Pandavas for profit, lest he suffer regret. Vidura urges a peaceful relationship with the Pandavas, warning that even the chief of the celestials wouldn't dare fight them together. |
24 Vidura warns Dhritarashtra that gambling will lead to destruction and cautions against quarreling with the Pandavas. He advises seeking wealth through legitimate means and valuing relationships over material gain. Vidura distrusts Sakuni's gambling skills and suggests sending him away to avoid conflict, but Dhritarashtra refuses to listen. |
25 Duryodhana accuses Vidura of disloyalty, favoring the Pandavas. Vidura defends his guidance, saying a true friend speaks unpleasant truths. He warns Duryodhana of destruction, advises humility, and takes his leave, cautioning against provoking powerful enemies. |
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26 Sakuni taunts Yudhishthira, who stakes his brothers Bhima and Arjuna, and eventually himself, but Sakuni wins each time using unfair means. In a shocking turn, Sakuni suggests staking Draupadi, Yudhishthira's wife, to win back his losses. The assembly is outraged, with some expressing dismay and grief, while others mock Yudhishthira's misfortune. |
27 Vidura rebukes Duryodhana for his cruel treatment of Draupadi, warning him that his actions will lead to the downfall of the Kuru dynasty. He emphasizes the importance of kindness, compassion, and honesty, and forewarns Duryodhana that his refusal to listen will hasten his own demise. |
28 Vidura scolds Duryodhana for humiliating Draupadi, warning of the Kuru dynasty's downfall. He cautions that Duryodhana's jealousy and pride will lead to destruction, urging him to follow dharma. Vidura's words fall on deaf ears, setting the stage for devastating events. |
29 Draupadi, humiliated and helpless, appeals to the assembly, lamenting her fate and questioning her status as a servant or princess. Bhishma, acknowledging the complexity of morality, declines to answer, praising Draupadi's commitment to virtue and suggesting Yudhishthira should decide her fate. |
30 Duryodhana tells Draupadi her fate depends on her husbands, urging them to declare Yudhishthira isn't their lord, which would free her. Bhima responds, boasting of his strength, saying he could kill the Kauravas but is held back by respect for Yudhishthira and virtue. |
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31 Duryodhana taunts Draupadi, calling her a slave. Bhima vows to break Duryodhana's thigh in battle. Vidura warns of calamity, urging recognition of Yudhishthira's lost status. Dhritarashtra grants Draupadi two boons: Yudhishthira's freedom and his brothers' freedom with weapons and chariots. |
32 Karna praises Draupadi, but Bhima's rage boils over, seeking to slay the Kauravas. Arjuna calms him, urging nobility, but Bhima's fury intensifies, flames seeming to issue from his body. Yudhishthira intervenes, embracing him, pleading for peace, and finally, Bhima's anger subsides. |
33 Dhritarashtra advises Yudhishthira to rule with wisdom, humility, and peace, praising his virtues and those of his brothers. He encourages brotherly love and virtue, blessing them as they depart for Khandavaprastha, filled with hope for a bright future. |
34 Duryodhana, Karna, and Sakuni manipulate Dhritarashtra to undo his decision, citing Vrihaspati's advice to destroy enemies. They propose a new dice game, with the winner claiming the throne and the loser facing exile. Dhritarashtra, blinded by love for his sons, summons the Pandavas back to play dice again. |
35 Gandhari urges Dhritarashtra to abandon Duryodhana's evil ways, warning that wicked prosperity is fleeting, while virtue brings lasting success. However, Dhritarashtra, bound by paternal affection, refuses to listen, dooming their race to destruction. |
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36 Yudhishthira accepts Sakuni's proposal to play dice, despite knowing the risks. The assembly is dismayed as Sakuni wins, and Yudhishthira prepares to leave for exile, bound by his promise. The downfall of the Kuru dynasty is imminent, and the Pandavas' journey into exile will test their courage and loyalty. |
37 The Pandavas, clad in deer-skins, prepare to depart for exile. Dussasana taunts them, calling them powerless. Bhima vows to slay Dussasana and Duryodhana, Arjuna pledges to kill Karna, and Sahadeva vows to slay Sakuni. Nakula swears to avenge Draupadi's humiliation and slay the sons of Dhritarashtra. The Pandavas depart, determined to fulfill their vows and reclaim their kingdom. |
38 Yudhishthira bids a sorrowful farewell to his kin and allies, thanking Vidura for his guidance. Vidura offers words of encouragement, reminding Yudhishthira of his past lessons and urging him to remain virtuous in exile. With a final bow, Yudhishthira departs, embarking on a journey into the unknown. |
39 Kunti bids a tearful farewell to her sons and Draupadi, lamenting their fate and her own helplessness. She recalls their virtues and begs Draupadi to care for Sahadeva. The Pandavas console her and depart for the forest, leaving behind their royal life. Vidura leads Kunti to his house, offering comfort. The royal household ladies and Dhritarashtra himself are filled with anxiety and grief, foreseeing the dangers ahead for the Pandavas. |
40 Dhritarashtra asks Vidura about the Pandavas' departure. Vidura describes their gestures and symbols, revealing their emotions and intentions. Yudhishthira covers his face, Bhima displays strength, Arjuna scatters sand grains, and Draupadi mourns. Ominous portents appear, predicting the Kauravas' downfall. A celestial Rishi predicts their destruction in 14 years, and D
uryodhana's pride and cruelty are seen as the causes of the impending doom. |
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