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 dharma.... Continue Reading →
Vidura on Prahlada
The well-known asura king Hiranyakashipu, killed by Vishnu in the avatar of Narasimha, had a famous son Prahlada, who succeeded his father to the throne. “Prahlada” recounted Vidura, “had a son called Virochana. There ensured a conflict between Virochana and Sudhanva, son of Angirasa, over a damsel each wanted to marry. In order to resolve... Continue Reading →
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 →
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 →
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.” Duryodhana... Continue Reading →
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 live... Continue Reading →
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 yourself... Continue Reading →
Yudhishtira loses all in the game of dice
The game of dice and the crescendo of Kaurava’s delight in a stormy and tempestuous atmosphere continued unabated as Yudhishtira suffered successive defeats. Victory appeared to be unknown to him. Addressing the losing Yudhishtira, Shakuni said, “Yudhishtira You have staked and lost all the wealth belonging to Pandavas. Is there anything valuable which has not... Continue Reading →
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