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Showing posts from September, 2013

Vidura Suspects Conspiracy Against Pandavas : Episode 31

Recap of Previous Episode : Shakuni pushes Dhritarashtra toward removing the Pandavas, eventually advising him to consult Kanika, whose ruthless statecraft begins to influence the king. Meanwhile, Arjuna meets the gifted archer Ekalavya in the forest, whose dedication to Drona costs him his thumb as guru dakshina. By the end, Dhritarashtra agrees to a subtle first move—sending the Pandavas away from the capital. Vidura Learns about Shakuni's Plans Duryodhana storms into Shakuni’s chambers, furious that Dhritarashtra still refuses to act decisively. He accuses Shakuni of backing down instead of persuading the king to eliminate the Pandavas. Shakuni remains calm. Murdering the Pandavas within Hastinapura, he explains, would draw immediate suspicion. The first step must be to send them away. He proposes sending the Pandavas and Kunti to Varanavata under the pretext of attending the consecration of an ancient Shiva temple, while Dhritarashtra stays back citing administrative duties....

Drona Asks Ekalavya His Right Thumb as Guru Dakshina : Episode 30

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Recap of previous episode : The people of Hastinapura begin favouring Yudhishtra as the next king, leading to heated debate in court. Vidura defends the Pandavas’ claim, while Shakuni and Duryodhana argue for Duryodhana’s right to the throne. With no consensus, Dhritarashtra delays the decision. Meanwhile in Panchala, Drupada withdraws from public life, unable to bear the humiliation of defeat. In the royal chambers, Dushasana urges eliminating the Pandavas, and Shakuni privately persuades Dhritarashtra that the Pandavas must be removed for the Kauravas to retain power. Shakuni’s Counsel Shakuni presses Dhritarashtra to accept Dushasana’s idea: the Pandavas must be killed for Duryodhana to claim the throne. Dhritarashtra is shaken. He recalls Pandu’s love and sacrifice—how he relinquished the kingdom and withdrew to the forest so Dhritarashtra could rule without guilt. Murdering Pandu’s sons feels unthinkable. Shakuni changes strategy and advises Dhritarashtra to seek counsel fr...

Dhritarashtra's Dilemma Over Announcing His Successor : Episode 29

Recap of Previous episode Duryodhana’s attempt to capture Drupada ends in failure, but Arjuna succeeds and brings the king to Drona. In return, Drona divides Panchala—giving the northern half back to Drupada while retaining the southern portion for himself and Ashwatthama. Arjuna’s humility earns Drupada’s respect, while Drona proclaims him the world’s greatest archer, deepening Duryodhana’s resentment. Vidura reminds Dhritarashtra that the time has come to name the future heir to Hastinapura. Whispers of Succession After Arjuna’s triumph over Drupada, Hastinapura buzzes with anticipation. The public murmurs about the next heir, openly favouring Yudhishtra and Arjuna—much to the discomfort of Duryodhana and Karna. Vidura reminds Dhritarashtra that the time has come to announce the coronation. The king responds that he is already contemplating his decision, and before a name is spoken, the crowd erupts with cheers for the Pandavas. Dhritarashtra : Why such applause even before t...

Arjuna Defeats Drupada : Episode 28

Recap From Previous Episode Karna challenges Arjuna at the arena and displays remarkable skill, but his unknown lineage leads to mockery. Duryodhana crowns him King of Anga, securing Karna’s loyalty for life. Later, at Dronacharya’s hermitage, the princes offer guru dakshina, and Drona demands the defeat of King Drupada—revealing their past friendship, Drupada’s broken promise, and the insult that now fuels his resolve. Duryodhana’s Failed Campaign Duryodhana marches to Panchala with boundless confidence, determined to capture King Drupada and prove his superiority. Ignoring warnings about Drupada’s strength, he enters battle head-on and is swiftly overpowered. His forces scatter, and he returns to Hastinapura defeated and humiliated. Arjuna’s Victory Next, Arjuna leads the Pandava forces to Panchala. With disciplined strategy and unmatched skill, he overcomes Drupada, binds him, and brings him before Dronacharya as a captive. The court watches in awe as the young prince fu...

Drona Demands the capture of the King of Panchala; Episode 27

Recap of Previous Episode : At the grand martial display in Hastinapura, the Pandavas and Kauravas exhibit their skills before the court and citizens. Bhima and Duryodhana’s fierce duel exposes deep hostility between the cousins, while Arjuna dazzles the crowd with unmatched archery feats. A mysterious warrior enters and matches Arjuna’s skills—Karna. Duryodhana embraces him as a brother, but Karna is humiliated when his lineage is questioned, leaving Kunti shaken in silent agony. Karna Challeges Arjuna Karna steps in and asks for a chance to display his archery, declaring that he can surpass Arjuna. Kripacharya asks him to declare his lineage, saying a duel with Arjuna is permitted only with a prince of equal birth. Karna remains silent. Duryodhana protests that courage, not birth, defines a warrior. With Dhritarashtra’s approval, he crowns Karna the King of Anga on the spot. Karna, overwhelmed, pledges lifelong loyalty to Duryodhana. Adhiratha rushes forward and embraces Karna,...