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 Dushshasana. All eyes are on Karna as he lifts the bow, concentrates on the target and would have certainly hit the target when, signalled by Krishna, Draupadi declares she wouldn't marry a suta putra. Duryodhana protests against this saying Draupadi has insulted the brave Karna and Drupada has insulted all the kings on purpose.
Krishna asks the assembly if there isn't a single valorous man who could win the contest. Arjuna gets the nod of approval from Yudhishtra and gets up. He then asks if a Brahmin would be allowed to participate. Draupadi remembers her dream in which garlands a Brahmin. She looks at Krishna, and with the affirmative nod from him, Draupadi nods her consent, and Drishtadyumna asks Arjuna to try his might.
Arjuna is all concentration from the word go and he is able to shoot the target. 
As he bows to Drupada, Draupadi gets up from the seat and walk towards him as if in a dream. Duryodhana, Dushasana, Karna stare in disbelief. Other partcipating kings such as Ashwathama, Jarasandha, Somadaatta and his son Bhurishravas, Shishupala are simply dazed by the Brahmin's skill.
Draupadi looks at Krishna who nods approvingly. 
She then garlands Arjuna to the amazement of all. Drupada, Prishata and Drishtadyumna appear troubled and confused, but Pandavas are jubilant.
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