Drona Helps Drupada Devise a Challenging Swayamwara Contest : Episode 55

Recap of Previous Episode : This episode reveals Shakuni’s secret ritual to hasten Gandhari’s delivery, guided by Atharva Veda practices that open the way for Kali Purusha’s influence. Vyasa explains the cosmic purpose of darkness and the inevitability of dharma’s triumph through Krishna. Meanwhile, the Pandavas are captivated by thoughts of Draupadi, Shalya prepares to attend the swayamvaram with the hidden intent of avenging the Pandavas, and destiny tightens its grip as all roads converge toward Panchala.

Drupada Seeks Drona’s Guidance

Drupada arrives at Drona’s ashram. As he walks toward his old friend, a thorn pierces his foot and he cries out in pain. Drona rushes to him, removes the thorn, and feels embarrassed that a king should be put in such a position. But he also remembers their youthful friendship and tells Drupada he will always remain his friend.

Drupada thanks Drona for training Dhrishtadyumna even though he knows the purpose of the prince’s birth. Drona smiles and asks if Drupada has come all the way only to express gratitude. Encouraged, Drupada hesitates but finally admits why he has come. He wants Drona’s help in designing Draupadi’s swayamvara contest—one that will suit Arjuna’s exceptional skills.

Drona recalls Arjuna’s rare ability to aim at a target without looking at it, a talent he had discovered when he saw the boy practicing archery in darkness. Arjuna had explained that the idea came from a simple experience—one night, after a gust of wind blew out the lamp, he ate his meal effortlessly in the dark. That clarity inspired him to attempt the same with archery. Drona shares suggestions on how to create a challenging test worthy of Arjuna’s precision and confidence.

Bhishma and Vidura’s Dilemma

In Hastinapura, Vidura and Bhishma quietly discuss whether it is time to announce that the Pandavas are alive. After much thought, they decide to delay the revelation until the right moment.

Shakuni arrives with Duryodhana and Dushasana, seeking blessings before they depart for Panchala. He then makes a disturbing suggestion: the princes should also offer salutations to their departed ancestors, including Kunti and the Pandavas. Bhishma tries to dissuade him, but Shakuni persists. Reluctantly, and to avoid raising suspicion, Bhishma performs the rites — even though every gesture pains him.

Drupada’s Preparations and His Faith in Arjuna

In Panchala, Drupada and Dhrishtadyumna supervise the stay arrangements for kings, artists, and guests. Drupada takes special care to prepare accommodations suited for Arjuna. He has even gathered information about Arjuna’s food preferences and has commissioned a special crown decorated with precious gems in case Arjuna wins.

Curious, Draupadi asks why her father is so certain she should marry Arjuna. Drupada speaks of the day Arjuna rescued his dignity. After defeating him in battle, the Pandavas had brought Drupada bound before Drona. Ashwathama declared that Drupada was no longer a king, having lost his crown, and must bow to his teacher. Arjuna intervened. If Drupada was no longer a king, he argued, then he was Drona’s friend — and compelling a friend to bow was against dharma. Drona agreed and thanked Arjuna for preventing him from committing an unethical act. Arjuna then personally apologized to Drupada for taking part in the war. That moment had stayed with Drupada. Draupadi listens, moved.

His minister adds that Drupada also has political reasons. Drupada acknowledges this. He still remembers the sting of being defeated by Bhishma years ago during the Vichitraveerya episode. A strong ally like Arjuna would ensure that Panchala stands protected and respected.