Arjuna Defeats Drupada : Episode 28

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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 fulfills what Duryodhana could not.

Drona’s Terms

Drona faces Drupada and declares himself now the rightful king of Panchala. He reminds Drupada of his own claim — that friendship exists only among equals — and states that he will gift the northern half of Panchala back to him, retaining the southern half and appointing Ashwatthama as its ruler. They stand as equals once more, but Drupada replies that the future alone will decide their friendship.

Arjuna's Courtesy

Humiliated, Drupada turns away, but Arjuna follows him. He bows respectfully, explaining that he fought only as a disciple fulfilling his *guru’s* command and harbors no personal enmity.

Struck by Arjuna’s humility and recognition of his bravery, Drupada’s bitterness softens.

Reactions in the Court

In Hastinapura, Dhritarashtra is disturbed by Arjuna’s triumph, especially where Duryodhana failed. Gandhari senses his concern and counsels composure, insisting the victory be celebrated with due honor.

Arjuna Declared Supreme Archer

At the gathering, Drona publicly praises Arjuna as the greatest archer in the world. Duryodhana burns with resentment and tries to provoke Ashwatthama, claiming his father favors Arjuna. But Ashwatthama dismisses the accusation and defends Drona’s judgment.

Claim to the Throne

Vidura then steps forward, reminding Dhritarashtra that the time has come to formally declare the future king of Hastinapura.

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