“Head of the Bharata clan!” said Draupadi, “If it is true you have decided to grant me a boon, I would ask for the redemption from slavery of this rich Yudhishtira, who is the knower of all dharma. Let not ignorant boys call my bosom one Prativindhya, the son of a slave. It is never... Continue Reading →
Chapter 11 – Inauspicious indications
Exactly at that time, the cries of a fox were audible from the place of sacrificial fires (homas) in Dhrutharashtra’s palace. Following this inauspicious sound, donkeys started braying. The birds made weird and awkward sounds in response. Both Vidura and Gandhari were able to understand the shape of things to come from the inauspicious indications.... Continue Reading →
Chapter 9 – Bhima’s wrath
Some of the members present welcomed Duryodhana’s words. Their token of acceptance was indicated by weird utterances and movements of their lips and eyes. Some others could know the innate innuendo in Duryodhana’s words and expressed shock. For those on Duryodhana’s side, his speech was very sweet. All the Kauravas were very happy. Some of... Continue Reading →
Chapter 8 – Draupadi’s fame and shame
After narrating Prahlada’s episode in which he gave an answer fearlessly even at the risk of staking his son’s life, Vidura returned to Draupadi’s vital question. “Hey, Kings!” he said, “At least after hearing this episode, I hope you will break your silence and provide an answer to Draupadi’s question as per tenets of... Continue Reading →
Chapter 6 – Bhima’s revenge
“Rulers from far and near!” he said to them. “Please hear these words patiently and my vow. You would not have heard these in the past. There is no likelihood of your hearing it in the future also. If I do not fulfil the vow I am undertaking, let me not get the fortune of... Continue Reading →
Chapter 5 – Draupadi disgraced
Vikarna’s observations were, however, absolutely unpalatable to one among the wicked gang of four (Duryodhana, Dusshaasana, Shakuni and Karna) namely Karna. Karna was provoked by the praise showered by the respectable ones and by the criticism leveled against his colleague Shakuni. Overcoming by his anger, he admonished Vikarna, raising his handsome hand in the process.... Continue Reading →
Chapter 4 – Draupadi dragged to court
Stung by the bug of arrogance, Duryodhana scoffed at Vidura and protesting against his words, called a messenger. He asked him to bring Draupadi to the court and said, “You need not be afraid of the sons of Pandu. The only one who fears is Vidura. He, however, is not interested in our progress.” ... Continue Reading →
Chapter 3 – Vidura pulls up Duryodhana
Duryodhana, rendered indiscreet by the flush of victory lost even the modicum of mental balance and commanded Vidura to undertake an unpleasant task. “Vidura!” he said to him, “Go at once and bring Draupadi, the love of Pandavas. Let her sweep the floor of the house and keep it clean. That unfortunate one shall... Continue Reading →
Chapter 2 – Draupadi as stake
In the midst of this confusion and total disillusionment in Yudhishtira’s camp, the cunning Shakuni had a brain wave. “You made a mistake”, he said to Yudhishtira, “by staking yourself. However you are left with one more valuable item of wealth. In spite of it, it is unfortunate on your part to have offered... Continue Reading →
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