Shikhandini, Drupada's Daughter, Brought Up Like A Son : Episode 45

Recap of Previous Episode :

Duryodhana prepares secretly for coronation while Shakuni remains doubtful. The Pandavas begin life as beggars, and Bhima witnesses the suffering caused by Bakasura. In Vidarbha, Rukmini prepares for temple worship. Bhishma senses hidden politics in Hastinapura. In Panchala, Drupada agrees to send Dhrishtadyumna to train under Drona, even as news spreads that Krishna has performed the final rites of the Pandavas.

Bhishma Confronts Dhritarashtra About Secret Preparations

Bhishma and Vidura walk to Duryodhana’s chambers and find him urgently instructing a sculptor on immediate work. Duryodhana is startled to see them. Bhishma questions why key ministers have suddenly been sent away on official duties. Duryodhana pretends confusion and mockingly suggests Bhishma should already know what was happening. He leaves abruptly with Dushasana.

Concerned, Bhishma tells Vidura they must inform Dhritarashtra at once.

Later in the royal chambers, Bhishma asks Dhritarashtra and Gandhari whether they are aware of Duryodhana’s secret activities. Dhritarashtra is clueless. Bhishma warns him gently that it is his duty to find out, for his own good and for the kingdom’s stability.

Pandavas Witness the Suffering in Ekachakrapura

In Ekachakrapura, Upaya’s family weeps in anguish. Each member insists on being the one to be sent as prey to Bakasura, along with a cart full of food — the daily price the demon demands from each household. Bhima and Kunti watch silently as the family struggles, each willing to die to protect the others.

When Kunti asks, the Brahmana explains that their king is powerless against Bakasura’s strength. The demon has subdued the kingdom and enforces this cruel tribute.

Kunti volunteers Bhima to go in their place. The Brahmana protests, saying a host must protect guests or incur sin. Kunti insists they owe gratitude for the hospitality received, and this is their chance to repay it.

Rukmini Declares Her Heart’s Choice

In Vidarbha, Rukmini visits the temple with her companions. A storyteller narrates Krishna’s beauty and divine exploits, leaving her entranced.

Later, King Bhishmaka notices Rukmini deep in thought and she confides in him — her heart belongs to Krishna of Dwaraka.

Rukmi bursts in with triumphant news: Jarasandha has proposed Rukmini’s marriage to his adopted son, Sisupala. Seeing their lack of enthusiasm, he grows irritated. When informed that Rukmini wishes to marry Krishna, he mocks Krishna as a coward who always runs away from battle. But Rukmini declares unwaveringly that she will marry Krishna and none else.

Rukmi storms out in anger. Bhishmaka, helpless before his son’s stubbornness, pleads with Rukmini to reconsider, though he knows her heart is resolute.

Drupada's Regret and Shikhandini’s Past

Drupada sits lost in grief until his wife Prishata reminds him of their first-born daughter, Shikhandini. Drupada avoids the topic, but Prishata insists — they must seek her out, for they share responsibility in her suffering.

A flashback unfolds.

On hearing of his child’s safe birth, Drupada rushes in, only to despair on learning it is a girl. Prishata asks why a son is so necessary. Drupada reveals he seeks vengeance — Vichitraveerya once raided Panchala and stole cattle; Drupada had imprisoned him. Bhishma retaliated, freed Vichitraveerya, and humiliated Drupada further. Drupada prayed to Shiva for a son who could one day kill Bhishma.

Now, he laments that Shiva’s promise has not been fulfilled.

Lord Shiva appears and tells Drupada to raise the girl as a son and name her Shikhandin. In time, she will become male and fulfil the prophecy of Bhishma’s defeat.