Devaki and Vasudeva Decide to Participate in the Divine Design : Episode 20

Recap

Devaki and Vasudeva grieve the killing of their first child. Determined to prevent further deaths, they take a vow to live austere life in devotion and refrain from having more children.

The Gods React to the Vow

At Vaikuntha, Vishnu explains why he has chosen to be born as the son of Devaki and Vasudeva: they are righteous, composed in suffering, and do not blame others for their fate. Bhoodevi and Sridevi remind Him of their vow not to have more children. Narada joins the discussion.

Narada :

We often say humans think one way and the gods think the opposite. But here, it is the reverse. You prepare for an avatara, and Devaki and Vasudeva act in a way that prevents it.

Vishnu :

Speak plainly, Narada.

Narada :

You plan Your descent, yet they refuse to bear more children. Meanwhile Kamsa’s atrocities are rising. He has imprisoned his own father and terrorises the citizens. Soon, he may even eye Indraloka.

Bhoodevi :

If You have decided to take birth, why as the eighth child? Why not sooner?

Narada :

Can such a birth happen easily? A mango seed takes years to bear fruit. For Paranthama’s birth, the preparation is far greater. Every child Devaki bears becomes a herald — announcing Your arrival and increasing the pressure on Kamsa.

Sridevi :

All this is acceptable. But how will You reverse their vow?

Vishnu :

That task is yours. Remind them of their duty, calm their grief, and prepare them for what is to come.

The Divine Message to Devaki and Vasudeva

Vasudeva and Devaki sit absorbed in meditation. Devi appears before them.

She speaks with compassion, acknowledging Devaki’s sorrow, yet reminds them that destiny has chosen them to bring forth the eighth child who will destroy Kamsa.

Their first children, Devi says, are not truly dead—they are divine beings, beyond mortal loss. She urges them to resume their married life and be ready for future events without fear or despair.

Her blessings restore their resolve.

Pandu Prepares for Exile

Pandu, Kunti, and Madri take leave of Ambalika before their departure to the forest. Ambalika wishes to accompany them, but Pandu gently dissuades her.

Vidura arrives, wanting to accompany Pandu with his wife, comparing himself to Lakshmana accompanying Rama. Pandu refuses. Vidura interprets it painfully, wondering if Pandu finds him unworthy. Pandu takes him aside to speak privately.

Satyavati overhears their conversation.

Pandu explains that Dhritarashtra, still unsettled by Pandu’s coronation, may not survive another emotional blow. Gandhari would likely follow him in grief. Satyavati has already endured much to secure the lineage; he does not want further turmoil. Dhritarashtra, being blind and ambitious, needs Vidura as his guide in Hastinapura — without him, the sacrifices of Bhishma and Satyavati may go in vain.

Satyavati is moved by Pandu’s selflessness and clarity.

Pandu then takes leave of Dhritarashtra, and finally Bhishma, who understands the true intention behind the seemingly simple forest retreat.

Pandu Enters the Forest

Pandu, Kunti, and Madri arrive in the forest. They pause to admire the lush trees, flowing streams, and abundant wildlife.

Pandu decides to go hunting. As he sets out, he stumbles, and Kunti sees it as an omen. She urges him to wait, but he brushes aside her concern and ventures deeper into the forest.

He spots movement at a distance. His eyes narrow. He draws his bow.

The arrow is released.