Pandavas Sense Danger at Varanavata : Episode 33

Recap of Episode 32 :

Kunti and the Pandavas depart for Varanavata, receiving blessings from the elders. Vidura warns Yudhishtra through cryptic metaphors, alerting him to hidden danger. Meanwhile, Drupada seeks a way to destroy Drona and turns to sages capable of powerful rites. At Hastinapura, Vidura cautions Dhritarashtra that the people suspect foul intent in sending the Pandavas away, though Shakuni and Duryodhana deny any plot. On the road, Yudhishtra interprets Vidura’s hints as warnings of poison and the need for unity among the brothers.

Ashwaththama’s Demand

Drona performs his morning prayers when Ashwaththama asks to be taught the Brahmastra. Drona refuses, saying the time is not right. Ashwaththama argues it is an auspicious day and insists he is ready. Drona remains firm.

Frustrated, Ashwaththama complains to his mother Kripi, claiming Drona is partial to Arjuna and has already taught him the divine weapon. When she asks how he knows, he reveals Arjuna once mentioned he had already received that instruction.

A Suspicious Welcome at Varanavata

Purochana escorts the Pandavas to the new palace at Varanavata. He introduces a cook named Vanjikodi and her five sons, all skilled in martial disciplines. Yudhishtra remains wary.

Food, Fear, and a Hidden Plot

During dinner, the Pandavas hesitate, suspecting poison. They send the cook away on pretext and discuss their concerns. They finally eat cautiously, believing the danger may not come immediately. Even the betel leaves afterward raise suspicion, and they refrain.

Bheema, angered by their helplessness, strikes a wall. Lac-coated fragments fall off, revealing the structure is built with inflammable materials. They realize the true plan: a future fire, not immediate poisoning. Yudhishtra advises restraint and a façade of normalcy until they can plan. Hearing the thud, the cook Vanjikodi and her son rush to the Pandavs, but Yudhishtra dismisses them, dismissing the thud as a friendly pat Sahadeva receives from Bhima!

Elsewhere, Duryodhana grows impatient with the slow pace, but Shakuni warns that killing the Pandavas prematurely will spark rebellion across the kingdom.

Drupada Seeks a Way Forward

Drupada searches for sages Upayaja and Yaja to perform a yajna that would grant him a son capable of killing Drona. He learns their whereabouts from a sage at the riverbank. Finally he locates them outside the icy caves of Kailash mountains.