Karna Goes On A World Conquest For Duryodhana : Episode 100

Recap of Previous Episode : Duryodhana attempts suicide out of unbearable humiliation. He is saved by the Daitya king, who strengthens his resolve. Duryodhana returns burning with renewed determination. The forces of adharma consolidate strength against Pandavas. Dark clouds move toward the future war.

Duryodhana Returns to Hastinapur in Shame

Duryodhana returns to Hastinapur after being rescued by the Pandavas from the Gandharva Chitrasena. The Kuru elders already know the full story, including the humiliating defeat and the rescue offered by the Pandavas.

Vidura reprimands Duryodhana sharply, reminding him that he has no right to pursue the Pandavas after unjustly robbing them of their kingdom.

Bhishma scolds him for his childish arrogance and praises the Pandavas for their moral greatness and true kshatriya dignity.

Karna intervenes, defending his friend passionately. Bhishma rebukes him by belittling his strength and taunting him about the mystery surrounding his birth. Enraged and humiliated, Karna vows he will prove his worth beyond doubt.

Karna Conquers the Four Directions

Driven by the burning need to silence every critic, Karna travels across the world with Duryodhana’s army. He defeats kingdoms in all four directions and brings their rulers under Duryodhana’s dominion, compelling them to pay tribute to Hastinapur, thus restoring the pride that Duryodhana had lost.

Reference:
1. Ghosha Yatra Parva — Vana Parva Section 252

Duryodhana Desires a Royal Sacrifice

Proud of his new power, Duryodhana wishes to perform the Rajasuya Yagna, just as Yudhishtra once did. However, priests and astrologers inform him that he cannot, since both Yudhishtra and Dhritarashtra — elders to him — are still alive.

Instead, they advise him to perform the Vishnu Yagna, an equally meritorious sacrifice.

Dhritarashtra sends invitations to the Pandavas, but Yudhishtra declines, honoring his vow not to return to Hastinapur until the thirteen-year exile ends.

Karna Swears a Terrible Vow

After the Yagna, Karna announces a solemn oath before the assembled kings: “Until I slay Arjuna, I shall not allow anyone to wash my feet. I shall not taste meat or wine. And whoever seeks something from me, I shall never refuse.”

This vow spreads quickly and reaches Yudhishtra in the forest. That night, Yudhishtra dreams of dark omens and wakes terrified for his beloved brother Arjuna.