Pandavas Enter Hastinapur to a Grand Welcome : Gandhari Hears Eerie Laughter : Episode 68

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Recap of Previous Episode :

Gandhari and Dhritarashtra reconcile after their heated quarrel, with Gandhari finally agreeing to align her wishes with her husband’s ambitions. In Panchala, Arjuna refuses to teach Drishtadyumna the Brahmastra. Draupadi, Kunti and the Pandavas prepare emotionally for their return to Hastinapura, while reactions in Hastinapura vary—from joy among the elders to fury in Duryodhana. Vidura arrives in Panchala, and Kunti expresses deep gratitude for his lifelong protection.

Vidura’s Arrival and Blessings

Kunti expresses her gratitude to Vidura for protecting her sons at every turn. But Vidura immediately kneels before her, seeking her blessings instead. His voice trembles as he admits that guilt has weighed on him—guilt for remaining a helpless spectator while the Pandavas suffered injustice after injustice. Without proof of the Kauravas’ schemes, he could not act openly, and that helplessness has tormented him.

Kunti consoles him gently, assuring him that he always has Pandu’s blessings and the Pandavas’ unwavering trust.

Draupadi then bows to Vidura, seeking his blessings for a long, prosperous married life filled with good sons. Vidura blesses her with affection and dignity.

Dhritarashtra’s Fears Return

In Hastinapura, Gandhari eagerly awaits the arrival of her new daughter-in-law. But Dhritarashtra is uneasy. He tells her bluntly that Draupadi will be the source of many future troubles.

He reminds her that before the Pandavas left for Varanavata, Yudhishtra had already been declared the crown prince. Now, with Yudhishtra marrying first—before Duryodhana—the path to the throne becomes even clearer. The very issue once silenced is now returning with renewed strength.

Vidura’s Counsel to the Pandavas

The Pandavas confide in Vidura that they feel uneasy about living again under the same roof as the Kauravas, knowing their past treachery. Vidura advises them to stay calm, ignore their doubts, and carry themselves with clarity and restraint. Their conduct, he reminds them, will shape how the kingdom sees them.

Welcome Preparations in Hastinapura

Dhritarashtra calls his sons and instructs them to prepare a warm welcome for the Pandavas and Draupadi.

Duryodhana refuses outright. His resentment burns openly, and he declares he will not participate in any ceremony. Karna and Shakuni support him, saying they too want nothing to do with the celebrations.

But on the following day, Shakuni appears with Bhishma and the elders, joining the ceremonial welcome for Kunti and the Pandavas — his motives unreadable, his smile calculated.

A Foreboding Sign

Gandhari is joyful as she prepares to receive the returning Pandavas. Dhritarashtra, however, is burdened—trapped between his affection for them and his inability to restrain Duryodhana.

At that moment, Gandhari suddenly hears a loud, unsettling laughter—harsh, mocking, and filled with ill-omen. No one else hears it. A chill runs through her as a sense of approaching misfortune settles upon her heart.

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