Gandhari Realizes She is a Mere Puppet in Hastinapur Affairs : Episode 66

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Meta Keywords Recap of Previous Episode : Duryodhana storms the Hastinapur court with a distorted account of the swayamvara, but Vidura counters with truth. Dhritarashtra learns the Pandavas are alive and considers their return. A fierce argument erupts in the next assembly, ending with Bhishma defending Vidura’s honour.

Bhishma’s Stand and Dhritarashtra’s Order

Bhishma reminds the court that denying the Pandavas their rightful share would be a moral failure. Dhritarashtra accepts his guidance and orders Vidura to proceed to Panchala with jewels and gifts, and escort the Pandavas back to Hastinapur with full honour.

In Dwaraka, Balarama decides to give Subhadra in marriage to Duryodhana. Subhadra, secretly in love with Arjuna, confides in Krishna. Krishna teases her gently, and when Balarama leaves, assures her that he will take care of her future—and her marriage.

Duryodhana’s Fury and Gandhari’s Pain

Dhritarashtra sits in gloom when Duryodhana storms in, enraged that Pandavas have been invited home. Shakuni fuels his anger, accusing Dhritarashtra of favouring his nephews. Dhritarashtra tries to reason: allowing the Pandavas in does not mean giving them the throne, and they would return to Hastinapur regardless of his approval.

When Shakuni suggests killing the Pandavas secretly during their return, Duryodhana brightens—but Gandhari is horrified. She accuses Shakuni of poisoning her son’s mind and orders him to leave Hastinapur.

Dhritarashtra sharply defends Shakuni, wounding Gandhari deeply. Shaken and humiliated, she leaves in tears, while Shakuni follows her asking forgiveness—receiving none.

Vidura and Karna: A Quiet Understanding

Vidura sits troubled after the court dispute. Karna visits him with respect, asking permission to address him as uncle. Vidura accepts warmly.

Karna apologizes on Duryodhana’s behalf for Shakuni’s insult. A person’s merit, he says, must matter more than birth. The sincerity moves Vidura. The two embrace, both with tears in their eyes.

Vidura acknowledges Karna’s loyalty, saying he tries to bring light into Duryodhana’s life—but Duryodhana is like a cave where light cannot enter. Karna agrees, yet says friendship binds his heart.

Vidura’s mind finds peace through Karna’s words.

Gandhari Confides in Vidura

Late at night, Gandhari comes to Vidura, distraught. She feels voiceless — one who blinded herself for her husband’s sake, only to be dishonoured by him publicly.

She confesses her helplessness: Shakuni misguides her sons, yet she cannot stop him.

Vidura consoles her gently, reminding her that Dhritarashtra’s harshness comes from fear and blind love for his sons—not lack of love for her. Gandhari leaves, calmer, though still wounded.

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