Bheema Kills Bakasura : Episode 48

Recap of Previous Episode : Drupada recalls Shikhandin’s past and his search ending in uncertainty, while Draupadi’s divine declaration restores his faith in her destined role. In Ekachakra, Kunti reveals Bhima’s hidden power gained from the Naga realm and sends him to confront Bakasura. Meanwhile in Hastinapura, debates arise over Duryodhana’s coronation; Bhishma delays it, Shakuni unexpectedly supports the postponement, and tensions deepen as Karna’s loyalty clashes with the elders.

Bhishma’s Verdict and Duryodhana’s Rage

Bhishma leaves after dismissing the idea of Duryodhana’s coronation. Furious, Duryodhana loses control and smashes whatever he can find — just as Dhritarashtra once did in grief and frustration.

Later, Duryodhana sits with Dushasana and Karna, lamenting that even his own father has become his enemy. Shakuni joins them, calmly advising patience. He explains that Duryodhana is obsessed with sitting on the throne, whereas Dhritarashtra believes true rulership requires timing, acceptance, and stability.

Shakuni reminds Duryodhana that he has overlooked the uncle whose cunning cleared the path by removing the Pandavas. Duryodhana apologizes for his lapse in acknowledgment.

Karna steps forward. "From now on, your nephew will not even breathe without informing you!"

Shakuni :

You are his friend. Teach him only what is good.

Shakuni walks out, leaving Karna unsettled by his cryptic statement.

Bhima Confronts Bakasura

Bhima reaches the outskirts of the forest cave where Bakasura dwells. When the demon’s guards summon him, Bhima refuses to go and instead begins eating the food he has brought, demanding Bakasura come to him.

Enraged, Bakasura storms out with his scimitar. A ferocious battle follows, ending with Bhima killing him. The villagers rejoice, and Upaya tearfully declares that if anything had happened to Bhima, he and his family would have sacrificed their own lives. Bhima displays Bakasura’s corpse on a bullock cart for all to see.

The king of Ekachakrapura rewards the Pandavas with gold and offers them positions in his administration. Kunti politely declines. The king observes their noble bearing and suspects they belong to royalty. An onlooker remarks that they resemble the Pancha Pandavas.

Just then Sage Vyasa appears and says they are his disciples, sent on a mission to rid Ekachakrapura of the demon. He blesses them for completing the task.

Drishtadyumna Arrives at Drona’s School

At Drona’s training ground, an arrow falls at his feet. It is an Agneyastra — a weapon known only to Drona and Drupada. Dhrishtadyumna approaches, bowing, and asks to be accepted as a disciple.

Drona identifies him by name and asks where Drupada is. From behind a tree, Drupada steps forward, humbly confessing he felt ashamed to approach directly and wanted the best teacher for his son.

Drona reminds him that he returned half of Panchala and accepted him again as a friend after defeating him.

Drupada :

I still sought retribution. Through penance, this son was born to kill you.

Drona :

Seeking vengeance is a kshatriya’s nature.

Drupada :

Bless him and accept him.
Drona : I must sharpen the sword that fate has forged for my death. How can I refuse when my dearest friend asks?

Drupada entrusts his son to Drona, who accepts him with grace.

Karna’s Generosity and Loyalty

Karna distributes wealth to the needy, who bless him and praise his kindness. Karna humbly replies that though he gives, the wealth belongs to Duryodhana, and gratitude should be directed to the king.

Duryodhana, witnessing this, embraces Karna with deep affection.