The Burning of Mathura by Jarasandha : Episode 42

Recap of Previous Episode :

Hidimbi reveals her divine lineage and marries Bhima with Vyasa’s approval, under Gandharva marriage. Drupada, grieving the supposed death of the Pandavas, questions the purpose of his children’s birth, but the sages warn him against doubting divine destiny. Krishna arrives in Hastinapura, speaking in riddles about the Pandavas’ fate, leading everyone except Vidura to believe they are dead. Bhima and Hidimbi begin their life together until the birth of their destined son.

Bhishma Learns the Truth

Bhishma is grief-stricken after the rites performed for the Pandavas. Seeing his sorrow, Vidura summons Kanaka, who narrates the events following their escape from Varanavata. Bhishma is relieved and overjoyed to learn that Kunti and the Pandavas are alive.

Meanwhile, Jarasandha worships Goddess Kali and Shivalinga, distributing gifts to the needy. When he learns his daughters Asti and Prapti refuse food and grieve over Kamsa’s death, he renews his vow to destroy Krishna.

Birth of Ghatotkacha and Farewell to Hidimbi

Bhima searches for his mace and finds a young boy practising with astonishing strength. Hidimbi appears and reveals that the boy is his son. Vyasa explains that beings of rakshasa lineage grow rapidly after birth, and thus the child has matured quickly.

Kunti rejoices at meeting her first grandson, but Vyasa reminds her the moment is brief — the Pandavas must leave, for their journey cannot remain rooted in one place. Hidimbi bows to Kunti and promises to appear whenever they are in danger or whenever Kunti wishes to see her. She departs with her son, Ghatotkacha.

Vyasa instructs the Pandavas to travel to Ekachakrapura and stay at the house of a Brahmana named Upaya.

Drupada Returns to Panchala

Drupada returns to Panchala with Draupadi and Dhrishtadyumna. His wife and brother welcome them with relief. Drupada recounts his journey to Yaja, explaining his despair over the apparent death of the Pandavas and the supposed failure of his vow.

Draupadi explains Yaja’s assurance that their purpose remains intact, and though his words sounded like a curse, it should not be viewed as one — it will unfold in time.

Subhadra’s Doubts and the Birth of Dwaraka

Subhadra sits in anxiety, worried both by the news of the Pandavas’ death and Balarama’s wish for her to marry Duryodhana. Her heart, however, remains with Arjuna, and she believes he is alive. She tells Krishna she suspects he has concealed the truth from their parents. Krishna listens without confirming anything.

Balarama arrives with news of Jarasandha’s invasion. Since Jarasandha cannot be slain due to boons received from Brahma, Krishna and Balarama decide once again to fight briefly, then withdraw.

They vanish from the battlefield as before. Enraged, Jarasandha orders Mathura to be besieged and burned to force Krishna into confrontation.

Krishna instead turns to strategy: he asks Vishwakarma to construct a fortified city at Kushasthali, land gifted to Balarama by his father-in-law. Vishwakarma builds a magnificent city — Dwaraka — with walls, towers and gateways.

Journey Toward Ekachakrapura

As the Pandavas walk through the forest, Bhima grows frustrated by their hardships. A disciple of Vyasa appears and tells them that Vyasa’s words always carry purpose. He speaks of the generosity of Ekachakrapura’s people, especially their host Upaya.

He recalls that when Vyasa once meditated for three days before eating, Upaya’s entire family — including even the young boy — waited without food until the sage opened his eyes. Such devotion, he says, is the nature of the people they are about to meet.

The Pandavas continue their journey with new hope.