Sun TV Mahabharatham

Karna approaches Sage Parasurama and requests that he teach him the intricacies of archery. Knowing Parasurama's animosity towards Kshatriyas, he proclaims himself to be a Brahmin. Parasurama accepts him as his disciple. Finding Karna very dexterous, he teaches him the ultimate weapon, the Brahmastra. He cautions Karna that he should use it only on the battle field against a powerful foe and not against ordinary mortals, as it has the capacity to destroy the world. Arjuna goes to Indra's abode, where he is entertained with a dance by the celestial dancer Urvashi. Arjuna is entranced by her, and Indra orders Urvashi to teach him all the fine arts. Indra also instructs Chitrasena, the king of Gandharvas, to teach him all forms of art. Arjuna learns music as well as musical instruments and dance from Chitrasena. Urvashi goes to Arjuna's room one night and expresses her love for Arjuna, but Arjuna spurns it, saying he considers her as his mother. Urvashi explains tha...

Shakuni and Dushshasana incite Mookasura and tells him that Arjuna is in meditation on Indrakeel mountains at Kailasa. Mookasura assumes the form of a wild boar and charges at Arjuna. Before Arjuna aims a deadly arrow, another arrow from a hunter pierces the boar and kills it. Arjuna feels it is his arrow which had killed the boar, but the hunter claims otherwise. A fight ensues between the hunter and Arjuna, and the hunter overpowers Arjuna in archery and in wrestling. Arjuna realizes that the hunter is not a mere mortal and asks hims who he is. The hunter, who is Lord Shiva, reveals his true form and blesses him. He gives Pashupatastra to Arjuna and tells him he has a mission to accomplish. He calls Indra to take Ajuna to heaven, give him his special weapon Vajrayudha and instruct other gods to provide similar weapons to Arjuna.

Yudhishtra overhears Vidura speaking to Sanjaya sent by Dritarashtra. He comes to know that Dritarashtra had sent away Vidura in an angry moment, but regrets it later. Realizing the deep love between Vidura and Dritarashtra, Yudhishtra asks Vidura to go back to Hastinapura, as it is his duty to help and guide the king. Vidura goes back to Hastinapura and is welcomed by an emotionally charged Dritarashtra and Gandhari. Dritarashtra chides Vidura for deserting them and asks him to promise that he'd never leave them in the future even if he finds fault with him or asks him to get out. Sthulakana, the Yaksha, asks Shikhandini who she is, and Shikhandini tells him about her vow to kill Bhishma, the boon she received from Lord Shiva, her marriage with a princess, the shame she experiences when the bride realizes that she is a woman, which makes her ran away from the palace. The Yaksha is moved by her story and he tells Shikhandini that he could exchange his masculinity with Shikhandin...

Draupadi thanks Krishna for protecting her honor but asks why he delayed helping her and let her be humiliated by Dushasana who tries to disrobe her in the Kuru assembly. Krishna asks Draupadi what she did when Dushasana dragged her by the hair. Draupadi recalls struggling to free herself from Dushasana's grip and protect herself and later asking the elders in the court to intervene. Krishna explains that as long as Draupadi believed that she could save herself with her own efforts, Krishna did not help her but when surrendered herself totally and called out to him he did appear in the next instant and protected her honor. Draupadi understands her folly and asks for Krishna's forgiveness. Krishna reminds Draupadi of the incident that took place at Indraprastha soon after Yudhishtra's Rajasuya Yagna when Krishna cuts his finger and blood starts to pour out of the wound. Draupadi instantly tears a piece of cloth from her upper garment and ties it around Krishna's finge...

As Pandavas, Draupadi and Sage Dhaumya walk along the woods of Kamyaka, they encounter the demon Kirmira, the brother of Bakasura and a friend of Hidimba. A fierce battle ensues between Bhima and the demon, where the two equally matched fighters hurl rocks and trees at each other. Eventually, Bhima emerges victorious. Shakuni and Dushasana, who have brought in Kirmira and secretly watching it from a distance, scurry away. Dritarashtra and Gandhari are worried about Duryodhana whom Sage Maitreya has cursed that his thighs would be broken by Bhima . Dritarashtra feels that Vidura, being wise in all administrative and moral matters, would appease their minds and allay their fears. Yet Vidura is brutally frank that Dritarashtra has brought on all the calamities himself by not heeding to the sagacious advice that he and others like Bhishma have given him, including discarding the new-born Duryodhana who was prophesied to cause the downfall of their dynasty. Dritarashtra is stung by hi...

Shakuni doesn't let Duryodhana become complacent and he keeps drilling the necessity of being on the guard against wounded tigers who may attack them any time. They decide to keep tabs on the Pandavas through spies and kill them at an opportune moment. Gandhari and Dritarashtra, who have come to meet Duryodhana and advise him to forsake enmity towards the Pandavas, are astonished and they return back dejected. Dritarashtra then decides to request Vyasa to advise Duryodhana. Kunti receives a sage who has paid them a visit. The sage notices that Kunti is morose and tells her that he is aware of the concern for her sons who are wandering in the forest. He assures her that with Dhaumya's guidance and blessings from gods, Pandavas have received Akshaya Patra because of which they do not have to suffer hunger pangs. Kunti wants to know who the sage is, who then reveals himself as lord Krishna. He tells her not to worry over sons because he would always protect them. Kunti is overjo...

Balarama is angry with Duryodhana for his malicious behavior towards the Pandavas and the lewd and reprehensible treatment of Draupadi. He is waiting for the return of Krishna who has gone to fight Salwa king who had attacked Dwaraka to avanege Shishupala's death. Krishna returns and is welcomed by Rukmini and Satyabhama who have a small tiff over who should welcome Krishna first and which one of them is more dear to Krishna. Krishna claifies that both of them are like his two eyes and he loves them equally. Balarama's wife Revati narrates to Krishna the abominable incidents that took place at Hastinapur, and Balarama suggests that they attack Hastinapur to seek justice for the Pandavas. Krishna's counter argument is that since Duryodhana hasn't harmed them directly and the Pandavas haven't sought his intervention and accepted their exile without a whimper, there is nothing that they can do. Krishna then suggests that Balarama could visit Hastinapur and chastise ...

Bhishma, Vidura, Drona and Kripacharya caution Yudhishtra against playing the game of dice the second time. Yudhishtra pleads helplessness against Fate, quoting the example of Sri Rama who chased a fake deer into the forest. Shakuni remembers the promise he made to his father and how he came to acquire the dice made out of his bones. The game begins under the same conditions that Bhishma set for the previous game. The player should select the target number before rolling the dice. Whoever scores three passes first is the winner. Yudhishtra magnanimously offers the first throw to Shakuni as the priority offered to the previous winner. Shakuni purposely 'loses' the first throw of dice. Duryodhana suggests that they place some bet for the sake of introducing the 'interest' element into the game. At first, he suggests that the loser spend 12 'நாழிகை'/nadi in the forest. (2.5 nadi is 1 hour and there are 60 nadis in 1 day) and then to make it interesting, the...

The second boon Draupadi seeks from Dritarashtra is to regain Indraprastha and all the weapons. The king asks Draupadi what she wishes as third boon. Draupadi declines saying a kshatriya woman is not entitled for more than two boons. However, Dritarashtra reinstates all the wealth that Yudhishtra has lost in the dice game. He then asks Yudhishtra not to think of retribution, as it would bring about the downfall of the entire clan, but rule Indraprastha just as he did before. Draupadi is weeping alone in her chamber and Kunti consoles her. She is anguished by the cowardly act of her sons that totally broke her pride of having brave sons. She tells Draupadi she should walk with her head held high. It is her sons who should feel the shame. She further tells Draupadi to wipe her tears and tie her hair, as leaving the hair unbraided was practiced only by widows and by those in whose homes death had occurred.

Draupadi continues to lash out at Bhishma and says it was foolish of her to expect justice from him. Bhishma replies lamely that dharma was a complex issue which could be interpreted differently by different people. When he had brought to Hastinapura the Kashi princess Amba, he thought he was acting in accordance with dharma, but his guru Parasurama did not think so. They had a fight but it had to be stopped because both the warriors were equally strong and invincible. When an injustice is meted out to a woman, anybody can stand up and fight for justice so long as she is helpless and single. But Draupadi had five husbands and he had no role to play in protecting her in their presence. Drona simply states that he is bound by the debt to his employer. Kripacharya has no reply when Draupadi reminds him of his duty as the adopted son of King Shantanu. Only Vikarna, the righteous son of Dritarashtra and Gandhari, asks the courtiers to answer Draupadi's question. He raises a cautionary ...

When Yudhishtra loses the dice game after staking himself, Vidura begs King Dhritarshtra to stop the game and set the Pandavas free. Duryodhana intervenes and says either he should keep quiet like Bhishma, Drona, Kripacharya or get out of the game. Karna suggests that Yudhishtra stake Draupadi in the dice game, and Vidura is enraged and once again pleads with the king. Duryodhana guffaws and says that they were playing the game in accordance with the rules set by Bhishma, and the game could be stopped only by Duryodhana or Yudhishtra. Since Yudhishtra was a mere slave now, only Duryodhana could stop the game and Yudhishtra was bound to play as long as Duryodhana wanted. As the elders watch the proceedings in utter dismay, Yudhishtra stakes Draupadi and loses her too. Duryodhana orders Vidura to bring Draupadi since she would have to live with him in his palace. Vidura yells out predictions of doom for the Kauravas, and Drona intervenes with an exposition of dharma, but Duryodhana que...

Yudhishtra wants to quit the game, since he has no property to lose. But Duryodhana taunts and incites him to continue playing. He asks him to wager his own brothers in the game. Bhishma and Vidura object to this, saying he could lay at stake only what he owned. Once again, Duryodhana makes fun of the unity the brothers professed and asks if it was true the brothers would do anything Yudhishtra commanded. Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahadeva grant permission to Yudhishtra to stake them in the game. Yudhishtra loses them one by one and the brothers remove their crown and kneel down in the assembly. Duryodhana jeers at the Pandavas and calls them his slaves. Finally, Yudhishtra loses himself too and declares that he has nothing else to offer. Karna seizes the opportunity to mock Yudhishtra that he could still pledge his haughty wife Draupadi. Bhima protests, but Karna orders him to kneel down. Duryodhana lampoons Yudhishtra by suggesting derisively that by pledging Draupadi, h...

(continued from previous episode)Virtuous Vikarna, Dritarashtra's son from a Vaisya woman, has been listening to the conversation between his father and Duryodhana. Dritarashtra throws away in helpless anguish the glass of milk that Duryodhana has brought for him. Vikarna tells Dritarashtra that he has heard Duryodhana's conversations with him and begs him not to permit the playing of the game of dice, as he fears that his brother Duryodhana could use it in vile ways. He requests Dritarashtra to send away the Pandavas soon, else the entire Kuru dynasty may have to suffer the ill consequences. Dritarshtra convenes the game of dice. Yudhishtra seeks the blessings from all the assembled elders. Shakuni asks an unwilling Duryodhana to seek Yudhishtra's blessings, explaining that Yudhishtra's words would never fail, as he is the embodiment of truth. Yudhishtra wishes Duryodhana victory. Shakuni asks Yudhishtra's consent to begin the game. Yudhishtra expresses surprise ...

(continued from previous episode...)Balarama informs Rukmini and his wife Revati that Krishna has returned safely with gifts from King Satrajit, after acquitting himself of Satrajit's charge of stealing Syamantaka gem. Rukmini rushes out to meet Krishna, but is stunned to see him with Satyabhama, with both appearing garlanded. Krishna wedded to Satyabhama She angrily asks Balarama if the woman with Krishna is the gift from Satrajit that he referred just now. Krishna introduces Satyabhma as Satrajit's daughter who used to worship him everyday and has taken refuge in him. He then asks Bhama to seek his brother's blessings. Rukmini is incensed with Krishna's behavior. Krishna had just married Jambavati because she is his devotee and now he has married Bhama citing the same reason once again. If she did not try to put an end to this, the number of Krishna's wives may grow from three to way beyond thirty. Krishna smiles and says that in this birth he is destined to...

Shakuni is busy playing a game of dice when Duryodhana and Dushshasana enter his chamber. Duryodhana taunts him for expressing mighty words of revenge-taking against Yudhishtra but doing nothing about it except playing dice throughout the day. Shakuni says that was the only way left to score over the Pandavas, as they cannot be defeated in a battle. As Pandavas were outside their purview, they couldn't employ other treacherous means either. The only way would be to defeat them in a game of dice. Duryodhana is dubious whether Yudhishtra would accept an invitation for a game of dice. Shakuni assures him that Yudhishtra was very fond of playing dice game and would never refuse an invitation, especially if it came from King Dritarashtra, whose words he always respected. He then asks Duryodhana to hook him with a show of affection and pursuade King Dritarashtra to use threat of death, if need be.

Shishupala continues to rail abuses at Krishna who listens to it calmly. He asks other kings to walk out in protest, but no one follows him. Duryodhana wants to join, but Shakuni dissuades him and tells him to watch the enfolding drama. When Shishupala utters his 101st condemnation, Krishna closes his eyes and his Sudarshana Chakra appears on his finger. Shishupala runs hither and thither, but the Chakra severs his head and returns to Krishna. Yudhishtra wants to know if killing of Shishupala vitiated the ritual cleanliness of the Yagna. Krishna assures him that Shishupala was his ' dwarapalaka ', and it was his wish to oppose Krishna and die at his hands three times. He had previously taken birth as Hiranyakashipu and as Ravana, and in the present birth as Shishupala. He has now taken refuge in Krishna as his dwarpalaka, and all sins pertaining to this would touch only Krishna, and Yudhishtra could contine with the ceremonies.

Vyasa is dictating the Mahabharatha to Ganesha as his disciple Sage Vaishampayana watches on. With Krishna's help, Arjuna marries Subhadra . This increases Duryodhana's envy, and his parents are worried for him. At this juncture, the King of Kalinga arranges for the swayamwaram of his daughter Bhanumathi, in which Jarasandha and Shishupala also participate. Karna fights with these kings and brings Bhanumati for his friend Duryodhana. Duryodhana marries Bhanumati. Karna marries Subhangi, a princess from Chandramalai. In the course of time, Draupadi gives birth to one son each for the five Pandavas. Arjuna and Subhadra have a son called Abhimanyu. Duryodhana and Bhanumathi have a son called Lakshmana and a daughter called Lakshmi. At this juncture Yudhishtra wants to perform the Rajasuya Yagna , and he seeks Krishna's advice.

The priest who saw Satyavati, Ambika and Ambalika perish in the forest conflagration informs King Dhritarashtra, Bhishma and others about the incident. Bhishma offers the ancestors the prescribed final rites. The priest meets Bhishma privately and informs him about Satyavati's meeting with Shikhandi and how the queen pleaded with Shikhandi on behalf of Bhishma. Jarasandha's son Sahadeva seeks Krishna's help in ending the atrocities of Jarasandha. He says he loves his father dearly, but Jarasandha doesn't understand his concern. Krishna assures him of doing his best to end Jarasandha's evil reign, but he says he cannot guarantee his life.

Satyavati, Ambika and Ambalika plod through the forest when Ambika notices Shikhandi. Shikhandi is now a man, but Ambika can still recognize her sister Amba in him. Sayavati remembers Amba's rage when Bhishma turns down her demand for marrying her and how she swore to take revenge on him. Ambika wants to talk to her sister, but Satyavati discourages her, reminding her how Amba had jumped into the fire and killed herself. As the three drink water from a river, a man approaches them, asking if they were the queens of Hastinapur. This man was the priest at a Durga temple and had stopped the daily worship at the temple when he lost his daughter to small pox. At that time, Queen Satyavati had admonished him telling him how she had stoically faced her own bereavement. Satyavati recalls all this, yet refuses to acknowledge or recognize him, saying they are hermits who had renounced everything. Bhoomadevi comes to meet Krishna . A woman carrying a heavy basket on her head comes to Dwa...

Balarama reminds Krishna that he has to go to Hastinapur to seek the alliance of Duryodhana for their sister Subhadra, a job he has been constantly postponing on some pretext or the other. Just then, a messenger from Hastinapura brings him a message from Kunti informing him that the coronation of Yudhishtra has been fixed, after which they would move to Khandavaprastha, a region they have been assigned to rule. Balarama expresses the concern that this meant the division of Hastinapura, which is neither a matter to rejoice nor the opportune time to talk of marriage alliances; hence Balarama doesn't want to participate in the coronation ceremony. Krishna says he has promised to Draupadi to come whenever they are in trouble; hence he would go down to Hastinapur. Drupada gets the news about the coronation, and he is delirious with happiness that his sons-in-law have now moved away from his enemy Bhishma and Drona. This would bring him closer to his dream of extracting revenge agains...

Subhadra and Rukmini are seated with a soothsayer woman who predicts the birth of a world renowned warrior son to Subhadra. Subhadra is more concerned about her marriage with Arjuna, as Balarama is already making preparations for seeking Duryodhana's alliance with her. The woman predicts Subhadra's marriage with an old man who is a sanyasi as well. Subhadra is worried by this prediction, but Krishna consoles her with mysterious words as usual, and tells her to have confidence that things will turn out right. Pandavas and Kunti meet Dritarashtra who openly admits that Yudhishtra is the sole rightful heir, but despite this he is still bound by his son Duryodhana's greed and fiercely blind ambition. He asks Yudhishtra to pardon him for his many lapses. He promises to hold Yudhishtra's coronation soon, after which he could go to Khandavaprastha. In fact, if Yudhishtra insists, he is prepared to give the entire Hastinapura to him and he would then leave the palace along w...

Vidura protests that the division of Hastinapura as delineated by Dritarashtra is unjust. Dritarashtra reminds Vidura that Hastinapura itself was a forest in the days of yore and had been cultivated by their ancestors. So Pandavas, being diligent, could do the same. He had entrusted them with the task of finding a solution and Vidura had suggested partition. He, as the king, has now accepted their solution and has devised a plan for the division of the country and it is their duty to obey their king's order. Vidura expresses the fear that the Pandavas might not agree to this gross injustice, but Dritarashtra discounts it saying it was Vidura's duty as a chief minister to force Pandavas into submission. Vidura retorts that it was also his duty to warn the king of dire consequences that might result from his action: in particular, Drupada might send an army in support of the Pandavas. This infuriates Dritarashtra who declares that he is not worried about the threat from Pancha...

After Bheeshma's outburst over Vidura's suggestion of partition of Hastinapura , Vidura pleads with Dritarashtra to try and understand him, but Dritarashtra says he is helpless against the senior's wrath. Vidura returns to his suite utterly shaken. He tells his wife how for the first time he had earned his uncle's displeasure. Bheeshma cannot contain his fury. He goes to the Ganges river and shoots a shower of arrows at the river. He pleads with his mother to appear before him and release him from the dilemma he is stuck in. Seeing her son so desperate, Ganga appears before him. Vidura conveys the happy tidings of Bheeshma's acquiescence to Dritarashtra, who is visibly disturbed and angry. He accuses Vidura of plotting for Yudhishtra's coronation and coercing Bheeshma to agree to his plans. Bheeshma enters and explains to Dritarashtra the consequence of not partitioning Dritarashtra, because it could lead to bloodshed between the cousin brothers. He then tel...

Vidura gets down the chariot to meet Sage Vyasa. Sage Vyasa listens to Vidura's woes and tells him that he is the incarnation of the Lord of Justice. Then he asks his disciple Vaishampayana to bring him a few fruits to quench his hunger. Vaishampayana brings a single mango, and the sage asks his disciple to halve the fruit so that both Vyasa and Vidura could have it. He tells Vidura that he has the answer to the problem and he would understand it once he contemplates on the issue on hand in a dispassionate way. Kunti meets Bhishma and expresses her anguish. Bhishma admits his helplessness in not being able to defend her honor when Duryodhana smeared mud on her reputation. He promises Kunti his support for her cause. Bhishma threatens to kill Vidura for suggesting the division of Hastinapura Dritarashtra asks Bhishma and Vidura to meet him. He tells them that he would not be able to think dispassionately because his mind is muddled with passion and anxiety for his sons. He...

Dhritarastra visits Vyasa Dritarashtra goes to Vyasa's ashram. He tells the sage that he is unable to make decisions because of the predicament he is in. Vyasa asks him whether he is merely unable to take decisions or whether he does not want to take decision; after all he has already made his decision known (about crowning Yudhistra before the Pandavas left for Varanavata). Dritarashtra says Duryodhana refuses to accept that decision. Sage Vyasa points out Dritarashtra failed to tell Duyodhana in his young age itself that his elder brother Yudhishtra living in the forest is the undisputed heir to the throne. Instead he has filled his son with his own greedy thoughts of becoming the future king. Dritarashtra could never follow his righteous advice; after all, he was already aware of the justice but wanted to use the sage's name to further his own cause. Finally Vyasa advises him to remove the garb of father from himself and instead think and act like the king of Hastinapu...

In the previous episode, Dhritarashtra had announced that the elders' assembly would discuss who should be crowned the future king of Hastinapura. Kunti has an inkling that the elders in the assembly would request the Pandavas to give up their claims to the throne for the sake of peace. She tells Yudhishtra not to yield if such a request is ever made. Yudhishtra and others agree entirely with this. Drona sees a man bringing a sack of rice to Ashwathama who directs him to take it inside. On Drona's enquiry, Ashwathama reveals that this is a tribute Drupada is paying them after his defeat by Arjuna. Drona disapproves and advises him not to continue the practice, as he considers Drupada his friend. Ashwathama points out that Drona is thankless and always regards Drona only as an adversary. On two occasions he sought the help of Drona: once for training his son under Drona and subsequently for devising the swayamwara contest for Draupadi. Yet, he failed to thank Drona after Drau...

Bhishma, Kunti, Gandhari, Draupadi, Vidura and others offer prayers Bhishma, Vidura, Gandhari and Kunti bless Draupadi and ask her to light the lamp to drive away the darkness in their lives and illuminate it with divine light. Kunti prays that her sons who have known no happiness till now should start living happily with Draupadi and start their marital life now.

(In continuation with the previous episode,) Kunti expresses her gratitude to Vidura, but Vidura kneels down before her to seek her blessings. Vidura says he is assailed by guilt for remaining a mere spectator when Pandavas were meted out several injustices. He has been helpless because he doesn't have sufficient proof of Kaurava's evil designs. Kunti consoles him saying he would always have Pandu's blessings. Draupadi takes Vidura's blessings for a long and prosperous married life enriched with many good sons. Gandhari is excited about the home-coming of the new bride, but Dritarashtra pronounces unequivocally that Draupadi is going to be the source of all troubles in the future. He reminds Gandhari that prior to departing for Varanavat, Yudhishtra was declared the crown prince. And now the problem will rear its head just where it was nipped. With Yudhishtra being the first to marry (before Duryodhana), the odds against Duryodhana becoming the future emperor have gain...

Scene 1 After Gandhari leaves teary-eyed following his censure(previous episode), Dhritarashtra is anxiously waiting her arrival. Gandhari tiptoes into the room and Dhritarashtra asks her if she is angry. Gandhari says she is one amongst the several servants in the palace and she doesn't have any right to be offended. Dhritarashtra is piqued by her words and tells her not to singe him with harsh words. Gandhari says it is not her intention to hurt him. Dhritarashtra asks her if she had gone to see Vidura and what he has told her. He is relieved to hear that Vidura has only reaffirmed Dhritarashtra's love for Gandhari. He tells Gandhari that he isn't angry with her at all, but was rattled when she asked Shakuni to leave the country. In his view, Shakuni is truly interested in their welfare, as Gandhari herself has told him once. Gandhari expresses her concern that Shakunii might lead her sons along the wrong path. She doesn't want the Hastinapur throne for her sons at...

Scene 1 [Continued from previous episode where Vidura and Shakuni have an intense argument]. Bhishma explains it would be morally wrong not to give Pandavas the right to rule. Dhritarashtra thanks Bhishma for guiding him in discharging his duties. Then he orders Vidura to take precious gems, gold and diamond jewellery and other expensive gifts to Panchala and escort Pandavas to Hastinapura. Balarama has decided to give his sister Subhadra in marriage to Duryodhana. Subhadra, who loves Arjuna, is anxious and expresses her concern to Krishna. Krishna teases her playfully. Just then Balarama joins them. Balarama justifies his selection of Duryodhana saying that Arjuna has married Draupadi first, and hence Draupadi's son would become the king in the future. After Balarama leaves, Krishna assures Subhadra that it would be Krishna who would fix the alliance and that he would take care of her.

Scene 1 Vidura and Bhishma are ready to go to the assembly convened by Vidura to read publicly the message sent by King Drupada. Just then a messenger comes with the news of the arrival of Duryodhana and others. Vidura and Bhishma hurry to the assembly, worrying what they had wanted to avoid has come to pass. Scene 2 Duryodhana, Dushshasana and Shakuni arrive at the Hastinapur palace after Somadatta advises them not to go for war with Panchala. However, as they near the gate, once again Duryodhana is reluctant to enter the palace fearing criticism for having lost at the Draupadi Swayamwara . Shakuni explains that success and failure are part of a kshatriya's life and should be taken as teaching them a lesson, but the Kaurava brothers are not convinced. Then Shakuni tells them that people would talk of their failures as that constitutes an important event but if they could divert the court's attention with other matters, they could easily avert their attention from Kaurava ...

Kunti asks Bheema to be calm Kunti, her sons and Drupada are discussing the next steps to be taken. Bheema would like to fight with the Kauravas and drive them out of the city. Kunti explains to Bheema that his father Pandu was so attached to his elder brother that he did not hesitate to abdicate the kingdom in his favor; that being the case, how could they drive the Kauravas to the forest? She expresses the belief that Dhritarashtra would have no role in the conspiracy against them, and even if he had any role, Kunti would never permit Bheema to be disrespectful to his uncle.

Scene 1 [Continued from the previous episode]Dhritarashtra asks about the outcome of the contest at Panchala and Vidura replies that Kauravas have won and that Draupadi is now their daughter-in-law. Bhishma too confirms the news but is confused and wonders why Vidura is hiding the truth. Dhritarashtra is happy and asks Vidura to make all arrangements for a grand welcome for the royal couple. In private, Bhishma asks Vidura how long the news of Kauravas' defeat could be kept away from the King. Vidura says he told only the truth. He explains the word Kaurava is normally taken to be the sons of Dhritarashtra, but actually refers to the descendents of the Kuru vamsa or dynasty; so it refers to both Pandavas as well as Kauravas. Bhishma is still not very clear. Vidura tells Bhishma that it is Arjuna who has won in the contest, and since Arjuna belongs to the Kuru dynasty, he had mentioned that Kauravas have won the contest. Then Vidura tells Bhishma that all the Pandavas are safe a...

Scene 1 Draupadi enters and re-emerges from Fire for marrying each of the Pandva Draupadi marries each of the prince after entering and re-emerging from the fire as a virgin, as per Vyasa's directive. Dushasana is in disguise and is watching them with disgust and anger. After the marriage, the Pandavas and Draupadi pay obeisance to Vyasa ad he blesses them for a long and prosperous life. He tells them that Sage Narada would meet and instruct them on how to live their married life. Till then, they would have to wait. The Pandavas then bow to Drupada and his wife and to Kunti. They express their happiness over the marriage. Kunti blesses them. She tells Draupadi that She should be like what Indrani was to Indra, as Swaha was to Agni, as Rohini to Chandra, as Damayanti to Nala, as Bhadra Devi to Kubera, as Arundati to Sage Vasishtha and as Mahalakshmi to Narayana. She should always offer food and shelter to children and to the old and the needy. She should take care of the king...

Scene 1 Kaurava's camp in the forest. Shakuni sitting beside a blazing fire and lost in contemplation. Duryodhana asks him the reason for looking so tormented and disturbed. Shakuni : Are you aware that a disembodied voice said that Draupadi will bring about the downfall of the Kauravas? That is why I wanted to have a check over that by getting her married to you, but that that didn't happen. But destiny has destiny has played a different game. It now appears that all the enemies have formed a union. Durodhana : I don't understand what you are saying! Shakuni : Shikhandi was born to kill Bhishma, Drishtadyumna was born to slay Drona, and Panjali was born to wreak vengeance on the Kauravas. And all these are Drupada's children. And if the person who won at the contest at Draupadi's swayamvaram turn out not to be a Brahmin but... Duryodhana : Don't increase my frenzy with your words... Shakuni : It is not my intention to upset you with my words. My fear is ...

Scene 1 Karna is furious, reminiscing Draupadi's words humiliating his birth and his family. He is angry and sorrowful that his god-like parents should be insulted thus. He swears he will not rest till he bridles Draupadi's vanity and make her repent her mistake. Duryodhan promises his support to Karna. Karna says no matter how hard he tries, the tumult in his heart refuses to quieten. Duryodhana says Karna should have killed the Brahmin (Arjuna) at the marriage site itself. Karna says he has already been cursed by a Brahmin, and he didn't want to risk another. Duryodhana is surprised, and Karna recounts the story of how he got cursed by a Brahmin. Once Karna was returning from a hunting expedition when he saw two children playing on the street. Suddenly he noticed a snake about to bite the boy and he aims an arrow at the snake, but hits the boy by mistake. The boy's father, a Brahmana, doesn't believe Karna's explanation. He accuses Karna of mindless cruelt...

Scene 1 The potter's grand children are hungry and Kunti plans to make dinner for them. The potter leaves to bring back his wife. Kunti and Krishna at the potter's hut Krishna calls out for his aunt Kunti and she is delighted to see him. She enquires about her brother Vasudeva, sister-in-law Devaki and Subhadra, her niece. Krishna tells her he and Balarama came to attend Draupadi's swayamwaram. Balarama rushes back, expecting trouble from Jarasandha and Shishupala.

Scene 1 After the exchange of garlands, Arjuna starts walking with Draupadi, when Karna intercepts them and wants to know if Arjuna is a kshatriya, Arjuna replies he is above the kshatriyas. In fact, kshatriyas come and learn archery and martial weapons from Brahmins like Drona and Parashurama. Having been born in a low caste, Karna does not have a right to question or criticize him. Karna flares up. Karna : Truly learned persons and warriors are beyond caste. How dare you compare yourself with them? You are speaking with so much courage, you cannot be a Bramin. Who are you? Arjuna : I am your sworn enemy. Karna : To call me your sworn enemy, you must be a systematically trained prince. Tell me the truth, who are you? Arjuna : How does it matter who I am? If you have any courage, fight with me and prove yourself to be a kshatriya! Bheema tells Yudhishtra to take Nakula and Sahadeva with him and go home to avoid somebody identifying them, while he would remain and assist Arjuna if...

Scene 1 Drishtadyumna explains the contest to the kings assembled at Panchala. He says the bow called Simburam to be used in the contest was given to Saint Vyagrapadha's son Saranjaya by Devas. Ordinary persons would not be able to lift it, leave alone stringing and aiming a single arrow at the target fish on a revolving machine atop a huge pole by looking at its image on the pool of water below. One is permitted to look at the fish above once. Only those who are strong armed and steel willed can lift the bow. Paundrika Vasudeva provides a comic interlude by claiming he's the chosen one but he's unable to lift it. He is followed by Shalya, but he too returns back unsuccessful. Jarasandha and Shishupala have a go at it, but just as they are about to string and aim arrows at the target, they turn to find Krishna smiling rather sarcastically and they drop it. Duryodhana is able to lift the bow, but he's distracted by Draupadi's beauty. same is the case with Dushsh...

Scene 1 (Continued from the previous episode) Explaining the animosity with the Kuru dynasty, Drupada tells Draupadi how Bhishma had attacked and defeated Panchala and rescued Vichitraveerya. Drupada has reckoned that Hastinapur has several warriors like Kripa, Bhishma and Drona. To defeat Hastinapur, he would have to get Arjuna on his side. With Arjuna as an ally, he believes he can settle old scores.

Scene 1 Drupada comes to Drona's ashram. As he walks towards Drona, a thorn pokes into his feet and he cries out in pain. Drona rushes to him and takes out the thorn. Drona is embarrassed that an acharya of stature should touch his feet, but Drona recalls their earlier days of friendship and says he always considers Drupada as his friend. Drupada thanks him for training his son despite knowing the purpose and objective of his birth. Drona smiles and asks whether he came that far just to thank him. Drupada and Drona Drupada is hesitant to broach the subject but Drona insists he speak up without any hesitation. Drupada then tells him that he desires to design Draupadi's swayamwaram contest, keeping in mind Arjuna's unique strength. Drona recalls arjuna's special talent for aiming accurately at the target without looking at it. This he had come to know when he saw Arjuna practicing archery in the dark. Drona had been surprised when he saw this and Arjuna told him he ...

Scene 1 Shakuni, the representative of Dwapara, is worried about the delay in the delivery of Gandhari, though she has completed the full term. He sends for Kanika, the counsellor well versed in political affairs. Kanika suggests that he should conduct a mid-night pooja on amavasya day, chanting mantras from atharvana veda and give the offerings to Gandhari. This would ensure that she gets a strong son. Shkuni convinces Gandhari to take part in the worship. Though reluctant, Gandhari is easily manipulated by Shakuni. At the end of the ritual, she partakes the offerings. The evil spirits in the nether world laugh uproariously.

Scene 1 Drupada and Dhrishtadyumna are supervising the arrangements for the stay of guests and the artistes. They notice Draupadi quite worried. They soothe her fears about Arjuna being not alive, and remind her she was the one with unwavering fortitude and unshakable confidence about their life's mission getting fulfilled. Scene 2 Pandavas and Kunti once again begin their journey. On the way they see a old potter stamping a pool of mud. Seeing him tottering, the Pandavas offer to help him. The potter is thankful and offers them a place to rest and spend the night. Scene 3 Shishupala sits meditating in a spot surrounded by fire. A messenger conveys this news to Jarasandha, who forces him to give up the penance he has undertaken because of failing to get Rukmini as wife. Jarasandha tells him of the invitation to attend Draupadi's swayamvaram , where he could win the hands and heart of the most beautiful woman on earth. He assures that Krishna would attend the swayamvaram ...

Scene 1 Drona Blesses Drishtadyumna At Vyasa's kutir where Pandavas have camped, Kunti finds her sons sleeping in the day time. Her eyes fill with tears as she realizes how tired they must have been and wonders how long they would have to suffer this way. Vyasa finds her sad and upset. Kunti asks Vyasa why, despite Vyasa bleessing both herself and Gandhari with progeny, she and her children have to struggle for food everyday, whereas Gandhari and her children have a secure and royal life. Vyasa asks Kunti if she knew Gandhari's inner mind. Kunti says she doesn't. Vyasa says it is Kunti's illusion that Gandhari is really happy. How could anyone know the inner turmoil that goes on in others minds, he asks Kunti. Life is a drama and before the final end, how can one decide the climax? That is in the hands of God. He cannot reveal the significance of Bhima's marriage with Hidimbi, or for that matter, other similar incidents that she might consider as sufferings...

Scene 1 Krishna-Rukmini Wedding The Pandavas decide to keep moving despite fatigue. Since the forest was dangerous at night, Yudhishtra suggests they use a flambeau (this word has originated from French and is nearest equivalent to fire torch or தீப்பந்தம்). Accordingly they prepare the torches so that they could frighten away wild animals. At this time a Gandharva chief called Chitratha is passing by in his aerial car with his two wives. One of the wives wants to bathe in the River Bhageerathi flowing on the earth and they come down. While they are enjoying the cool water, the Pandava brother appear there carrying their torches. The Gandharva gets furious with the Pandavas. He says the time between the falling of twilight and the dawn is reserved for Yakshas, Gandharvas and Rakshasas and they kill any man who come near pools. His name was Angaraparna(Blazing chariot). Arjuna gets angry with the gandharva for preventing him from crossing the river and says human have every right ...

Scene 1 The people of Ekachakrapura find dead a man with multiple injuries on the main street. This was the man who had identified the people living in the house of the Brahmin Upaya as the Pandavas who were supposed to have perished in the fire at Varanavata. Pandavas are going through forests, and Kunti wants to rest. Sahadeva is wise: he notices flocks of birds flying towards north and he concludes that in the southern direction, there must be water bodies likely to attract wild animals. So he concludes the pace was too dangerous to rest. They then move on.

Scene 1 Dhrishtadyumna if worshipping Shiva Ling with flowers when Kripi and Ashwaththama enter. They ask him who he is. Drishtadyumna falls at Kripi's feet and seeks her blessings. When Kripi repeats the question, Dhrishtadyumna reveals his name. Ashwaththama flares up on hearing the name, because he and Kripi recognize him as the son Drupada obtained from the fire for wreaking vengeance on Drona. Ashwaththama pushes him out despite Dhrishtadyumna's protests that he cannot leave the place without Drona's permission. Drona finds Drishtadyumna standing outside and asks him the reason. Drishtadyumna tells him Kripi and Ashwaththama had chased him out. Drona asks him to sit down for dinner and asks his wife to serve him food. When they object saying Drishtadyumna had taken birth to destroy Drona, Drona says that like the rain, a Guru was meant to disseminate knowledge equally to all. So it was his duty to teach martial weapons when an able and competent kshatriya requests ...

Scene 1 Bhishma leaves after dismissing Duryodhana's plan of coronation. Duryodhana gets enraged and getting out of control, breaks everything in sight just like Dhritarashtra did under similar circumstances. A few hours later, Duryodhana, Dushshasana and Karna are chatting. Duryodhana regrets his father himself has become his enemy. Shakuni tells them that he ought to be more patient. Duryodhana is mistaken in assuming that simply ascending the throne is enough to make one happy, but Dhritarashtra, being more experienced, believes in waiting for more time and assure everybody's approval for lasting happiness. Therein lay the difference between Duryodhana and Dhritarashtra. Shakuni seizes the opportunity to tell Duryodhana that he has forgotten his uncle, whose help he utilized in driving the Pandavas out of his path. Duryodhana says that wasn't his intention, and apologizes for any lapse on his part. Karna : From now on, your nephew will not even breathe without t...

Scene 1 This is a continuation of Drupada's flashback regarding Shikhandin. After Narada tells King Hiranyavarman to produce proof of the lack of masculinity in Shikhandin, Hiranyavarman is forced to leave. Drupada and Prishata heave a sigh of relief. End of flashback. Drupada says he did try to look for Shikhandin, but couldn't trace her. Prishata says if Drupada had paid even a fraction of the efforts he had put in taking revenge on Drona, he would have found Shikhandin. Dhritadyumna, who had been listening to the conversation, tells Prishata not to be so hard on Drupada; all that had transpired way the divine play of Shiva alone. It was their duty to give solace to Drupada who is mired in dejection and confusion. Their attention is now caught by commotion in the adjoining room. Draupadi is dancing as if possessed. As she falls down exhausted, she tells Drupada she came from fire; she is the incarnation of goddess Durga and a part of Krishna. How could he doubt the objecti...

Scene 1 Nilavan asks Shakuni why he exposed Duryodhana's misdeeds and made Dhritarashtra angry. Shakuni explains his strategy – of pinching the baby and rocking the cradle – saying he wanted Dhritarashtra to know the extent to which duryodhana would go to achieve his goals and his own goal was, no doubt, to see Duryodhana as king. Shikhadini's marriage to a girl Yudhishtra and others return from their rounds of collecting alms and find a bullock cart laden with food and Bheema standing next to it. A large crowd has gathered, some of the people moaning the lot of Bheema and some questioning the ethics of putting the life of an atithi in danger. Yudhishtra goes inside and calls out for his mother. Dhritarashtra and Gandhari meet Shakuni. Gandhari expresses disbelief that her son would act on his own will and fancy without consulting elders. Shakuni says this was to be expected; after all, he was the son of Dhritarashtra who had behaved similarly in the past. Then he sug...

Scene 1 Bheeshma and Vidura go to Duryodhanaa's chamber where he is discussing the work that the sculptor has to do immediately and urgently. Duryodhana is surprised to see the two. Bheeshma asks Duryodhana what the matter is, since all the important ministers seem to have gone on some official mission. Duryodhana feigns surprise and asks if he was joking since he ought to have known what was going on. Then he leaves abruptly with Dushasana. Bheeshma tells Vidura that they ought to inform Dhritarashtra and find out what was going on. Bhishma asks Dhritarashtra and Gandhari whether they knew about the various activities Duryodhana was pursueing. Dhritarashtra is totally unaware of Duryodhana's activities. Bhishma gently warns him to find out for his own good.

Scene 1 Duryodhana and Dushasana come to Shakuni to discuss when Duryodhana could be crowned as the king. Shakuni advises them to wait a little longer because he is uncertain about Pandava's death, and he feels any undue hurry in Duryodhana's coronation would be counter productive. Duryodhana and Dushasana feel that Shakuni is over-cautious and decide to do their own investigation. They send a spy with some instructions. Then they send for an astrologer for consultation. Shakuni's confidante, the clownish Nilava, asks what the matter was, so that he could report to Shakuni. Duryodhana doesn't reveal much, but sends away Nilava. Then they send for a jewelry-maker and instruct him to make the most exquisite and unique throne that would outshine Indra's throne. The jeweller promises to make the best throne and crown and departs. Nilava is overhearing all this conversation. Nilava informs Shakuni that his nephews called for an astrologer for fixing the date for corona...