New moon day!

Saguni, Duryodhana and Duchadhana

War is certain. Kurukshetra has been named as the place and both the sides were getting prepared for the epic battle.

“Duryodhana! To win in a battle, we need great soldiers, weapons and mighty warriors and good strategies. Above all, we also need the blessings of our ancestors. Starting the war at an auspicious time, offering sacrifice to Goddess Kali at the right time and all will decide the winner of the war. Offering Tarpan (a ritualistic prayer done for ancestors) to our ancestors on the right day will ensure our victory.” – Said Saguni.

“Yes uncle. I will get our priests to get the auspicious day for offering Tarpan.” – Duryodhana spoke without lifting his head from the map.

         “Go to Sahadeva and ask for the auspicious date.”- Saguni again.

         Surprised, Duryodhana stared at his uncle – “Sahadeva!? Indeed he is the world’s best. Also master in astrology. None is better than him. But, he is our prime opponent. Our nemesis. Do you expect him to say the correct date? What if he says a wrong date to ensure their victory?”

         “Not just master. Sahadeva is wiser than Lord Sukra, the Guru of demons. He can’t lie. It’s his dharma to say the truth in his profession. He is so righteous. Go right now and ask for the exact date.” – Delighted on Saguni’s word, Duryodhana left the palace and rushed to Sahadeva in his chariot.

         The Pandavas and Krishna were discussing about the war preparations.

         A Sentinel came in and said – “O King! Prince Duryodhana is here to see Sahadeva.”

         “Him!? That devil! How dare he visit us after insulting Krishna? I am going to kill him, right now.” – Bhīma said with rage.

         “Bhīma! Control yourself. He is here as our guest. Be nice to him. Though we know he is not here for peace talks, it’s our dharma to take care of our guest. Moreover, he is our brother too.”- King Yudhistra controlled Bhīma and asked the Sentinel to let in Duryodhana immediately.

         Though the Pandavas were confused on the unexpected visit of Duryodhana, King Yudhistra gave him a warm welcome. He ordered the maids to give Duryodhana fruits, honey, water and curd for refreshing.

         “Duryodhana! My brother, May I know the reason of your visit?” – King Yudhistra spoke with serenity.

         “I am here to see Sahadeva. I have something to ask and I would like to talk about it with him, in private.” – Duryodhana spoke with attitude.

         Sahadeva and Duryodhana left the hall on King Yudhistra’s permission. They went to Sahadeva’s guest chamber. “Kindly be seated, brother. Make yourself comfortable.” – said Sahadeva.

Confirming that he is alone with Sahadeva and believing that no one is listening, Duryodhana spoke –“Sahadeva! Dear brother, I know that you are man of your words and will follow dharma. I would like to ask you something and I hope that you perform your duty by speaking the truth. I am here only because I trust you wholeheartedly.”

Krishna who sneaked behind them, waited outside the room with his ears fixed listening to Duryodhana and Sahadeva’s conversation.

“O Duryodhana! You trusted Sahadeva wholeheartedly!?” – Krishna thought to himself and smiled.

“Brother! Feel free and let me know what it is. I will do my best.” – Sahadeva said with respect, though he knew that Duryodhana is twofaced.

“Sahadeva, before the start of war, it’s compulsory to offer Tarpan to ancestors, right?” – enquired Duryodhana.

“Of course, brother. Getting their blessings is more than enough to win the war. Offering Tarpan on the right day will ensure victory.” – said Sahadeva.

“Exactly! Brother, no one is better than you in astrology. I would like you to tell me the auspicious day on which I can perform the ritual, so that the victory in war will be mine.” – Duryodhana spoke with excitement and doubt.

“Brother! Give me few moments. I will get the zodiacal almanac and will tell you the exact date and right time.” – Saying so, Sahadeva went towards his table to get the zodiac calendar.

Sahadeva checked the calendar and said his prophecy – “Brother, if you offer Tarpan on the upcoming new moon day, which is day after tomorrow, the victory of your side is ensured.          Perform the offering at the auspicious time on that day and the victory will be yours.”

Krishna who was eavesdropping smiled to himself – “Your visit here has been successful Duryodhana! You still hope Saguni’s plans are working well!” He then left the place unnoticed by anyone.

Pleased on Sahadeva’s honesty and delighted on his words, Duryodhana hugged Sahadeva and left the room. In the meantime, Krishna returned to the court. Duryodhana entered the court room and bid farewell from Krishna and the Pandavas. Duryodhana then left for Hastinapur overwhelmed on his predicted victory.

“Sahadeva, what was the reason for his visit?”- Bhīma enquired unable to control his curiosity.

Sahadeva explained the conversation he had with Duryodhana.

“That’s it! We all can rest peacefully, for after the war, you all might be going to forest, forever, this time. We don’t have to worry about winning. Not anymore. Relax and ask Draupathi to get ready for Vanavasa.”-Said Krishna.

“Initially, I thought he was fool to ask you for date. Now, I realize you are the fool. Which fool will do this for the victory of their enemy? Other than you.” – Bhīma said with hesitation.

“Brother, do you expect me to lie? It’s my dharma to not lie in my profession. If I get to die for being truthful to my profession, I will gladly accept it.” – Sahadeva spoke with respect.

 “Krishna, What can we do now? We are in grave danger now. Is there any way to win this war?” – Arjuna asked looking at Krishna with expectation.

Arjuna and Krishna

“What? What more is there? If he had asked in front of all of us, we could have done something to not let Sahadeva give him the date. Also, we can’t go to Duryodhana now and trick him. He won’t believe it either. Things are done. That’s it. I don’t think we need a war to say who the subjugator is.” – Krishna said with ease.

“Even if brother had asked in front of everyone, I would definitely have given the date to him. And I also know that brother Yudhistra will let me to do it. Even if you all persuade me to change the date, I wouldn’t do that. Even if the Paramathma tries to convince me, I wouldn’t lie. We are not like Duryodhana to go against dharma. We are not afraid to die following the path dharma. Isn’t that the reason why you are with us, Lord Krishna? Also, with you by our side, what will fright me to say the truth?” – Sahadeva asked Krishna.

Krishna glanced at Sahadeva and admired at his confidence on Krishna. Krishna kept his delight within himself and smiled at Sahadeva while Arjuna spoke – “Krishna! Help us for this is the only way to sustain dharma. If Duryodhana wins, this world will never be a place for dharma. Day after tomorrow is new moon day. We don’t have time too.”

“You all do something in the name of Dharma and finally come to me for rescue! I will see what I can do. But don’t be assertive that I will sort you all out of this trouble. I am tired. I will retire for the day. Will meet you all tomorrow morning.” – Saying so, Krishna left the hall, smiling to himself about his plan for the next day.

The Pandavas spent a sleepless night on their bed distressed about the situation at hand. After a peaceful sleep, Krishna woke up in the morning and performed his morning rituals.

He then went to the banks of River Ganga. He saw the priests and the brahmins performing their morning rituals. Taking a quick glimpse at the bright sky above, Krishna sat on the bank of the river and started offering Tarpan. Witnessing Krishna, the priests and the brahmins were confused.

“What is this? The Zodiac calendar says that only tomorrow is new moon day. On new moon day only we have to perform Tarpan, right!? Why is Krishna doing today?” – “Somebody go and tell him that the new moon is tomorrow only.” – Confused brahmins spoke to each other.

“Oi...What is wrong with you? It’s Krishna who is performing Tarpan. Is there anything that he doesn’t know? Do you think we are genius to explain him?” – Though puzzled on Krishna’s act, few brahmins spoke in favor of Krishna.

“Yes…Yes… May be what’s written in our calendar might be wrong.” – said a priest.

“What ‘may be’? Definitely, our prediction only is wrong. Krishna is always correct. He knew all the three worlds. He knows the future too. How can someone so genius could be wrong.”- said another priest with his blind belief for Krishna.

“Yes…Yes…without wasting time, let us also perform Tarpan along with him. Think this is the most auspicious time as Krishna himself is offering Tarpan.” – saying so, the brahmin sat on the banks of the river and started chanting the Vedic chants for the ritual.

The brahmins, priests and even the rishis and saints on the banks of the river started offering Tarpan to their ancestors. Witnessing this, Surya Deva (Sun) and Chandra Deva (Moon) were perplexed.

“Chandra Deva! What is happening? What is Krishna doing? Today is not new moon day, right?” – asked confused Surya Deva.

         “Yeah! It’s only tomorrow. I’m wondering about the same. How can Krishna be wrong?” – spoke puzzled Chandra Deva.

         “See! The brahmins and priests, even the great sages too are offering Tarpan watching Krishna. Let’s go and stop them first. We have to inform Krishna too to stop first.” – saying so, Surya Deva ascended on his chariot and reached earth along with Chandra Deva.

         Both Chandra Deva and Surya Deva reached the banks of River Ganga. They descended from the chariot and rushed towards Krishna.

         “O Krishna! Stop what you are doing. Today is not new moon day. It’s tomorrow only. You are creating a cosmological imbalance. There can’t be two new moon days.” – Chandra Deva screamed at Krishna with tense.

         “O Chandra Deva! Surya Deva! Accept my greetings. It’s really a pleasure to see you both, at this time. Well, today is new moon day and that’s why I’m offering Tarpan. Why? What’s wrong in it?” – Asked Krishna.

         “Lord Krishna, you know everything. Tomorrow is only new moon day or Amavasya. Tomorrow only Tarpan should be offered. You, by mistake have offered Tarpan today. Seeing you, the priests and saints too are offering Tarpan.” – Said stressed Surya Deva.

         “What exactly is new moon day?” – asked Krishna with a mischievous smile.

“Krishna, just as the Sanskrit language states, ‘ama’ is ‘together’ and ‘vasya’ is ‘to dwell’. Surya Deva and I will be facing each other, with no earth in between us, to form the new moon day. It’s only tomorrow. Only on that day, Shraadh should be performed and Tarpan should be offered to ancestors. Today is only Chaturdashi, the 14^th day.” – explained Chandra Deva.

         “So, when you both are together, close to each other, it’s new moon day, right?” – Asked Krishna.

         “Yes!” – said both the Devas sounding strong.

         “Well, now you both are together! Facing each other and no earth is in between you. Right?” – Krishna again.

         “Ye…Yes.” – Both the Devas said in lowered voice.

         “Well, then today is new moon day, right!? So, me offering Tarpan is correct only, right?”- Said Krishna with a spark in his eyes.

         Both Surya Deva and Chandra Deva stood unable to argue with Krishna as Krishna’s reason is valid. With their silence, they assured that Krishna is right and left the place in acceptance to Krishna’s words.

Krishna informs Yudhistra to offer Tarpan

         The news of Krishna offering Tarpan reached the Pandavas and they rushed to the river banks. Krishna explained and asked them to perform Shraaadh and offer Tarpan to their ancestors.

         The spies of Hastinapur informed Duryodhana and Saguni about the Pandavas offering Tarpan.

         “Duryodhana, are you sure that it is tomorrow? Did you listen clearly to Sahadeva’s words?” – enquired confused Saguni.

         “Yes Uncle. I heard it clearly. He said, ‘Offer Tarpan on new moon day.’ I am confident on what I heard.”- Said Duryodhana in affirm voice.

         “Are you sure, you asked in private? That Krishna… you can’t trust him. He is a trickster. Are you sure he did not overhear the conversation? Because, he is someone who could do anything unbelievable.” – Saguni asked to confirm again.

         “Uncle, I’m sure the conversation was private. What if even he overheard it or what if he came to know about it? He can’t change the day or change the position of the moon and sun, right? I will win. I heard it from Sahadeva itself. The Pandavas must be scared to death right now and so they must be doing some other prayers to nullify my opportunity. But, I’m sure, Sahadeva said, nothing can change my victory if I offer Tarpan on new moon day. We will do it tomorrow to ensure our victory.” – Duryodhana said with brashness.

         “Yes…Yes… The Pandavas must be scared to death right now for they know that they are going to lose. Even with Krishna by their side!” – Saying so, Saguni laughed cunningly.

 Meanwhile all the Devas gathered in IndraLok to discuss about Krishna’s words and the uncommon situation they are in.

         “Will there be two new moon day this time?” – asked Lord Agni.

         “But, that’s not possible, right? Two new moon day means, he should not be moving tomorrow. That will alter the astral balance. He has to move. But if he moves tomorrow, then the new moon day is one day earlier, without even the knowledge of Chandra Deva and Surya Deva.” – Said Varuna Deva, in a funny tenor.

         “Well, I can’t jump from my position to reduce a day. Also, this has asked for correction in this year’s zodiac calendar. All because of Krishna. But, Lord Narayana is always right and in fact, he won the argument too. What should I do now, Lord Indra? Where should I stand? Should I move tomorrow or not?” – asked Chandra Deva.

         “What should I do? Should I reveal Chandra Deva tomorrow or hide him totally?” – asked stressed Surya Deva.

         “Narayana! Lord Narayana!” – Sighed Lord Indra heavily – “He works out his plans in mysterious ways, for sure. He guaranteed Sahadeva’s words now with this act. He responded to Sahadeva’s confidence. He saved his devotee Sahadeva. He made sure that Pandavas will win now. But what about us now? I haven’t been put in a situation like this. Never. The only person who can solve this confusion is the one who created it. Let’s go and ask him. Surrender to him like Sahadeva.” – Said Lord Indra.

         Lord Indra, Surya and Chandra left in their chariot to see Krishna who was resting in his chamber. 

         “O Lord Narayana! Purushotama! To ensure Pandavas’ victory and to sustain dharma on earth, what you have done is accepted. But we have a lunar imbalance now as a result of the confusion you have created. What day will tomorrow be?” – Lord Indra enquired with respect.

Lord Krishna and Lord Indra

         Krishna smiled for a moment and said in a serene voice – “Indra, For Dharma to sustain, certain regular practice has to be disturbed. One such is this. Though the day started without Amavasya, after their concurrence, this day is in fact a new moon day now. Let this Amavasya be called as ‘Bodhayana Amavasya’, from now on. This new moon day will be an exceptional one that occurs a day earlier than the regular ones.”

         “So, tomorrow will not be a new moon day. Which means…” – Lord Indra paused to get Krishna’s confirmation on his thought.

         “Which means…the Tarpan Duryodhana offers tomorrow will go in vain.” – Krishna said eyeing River Ganga from the balcony of his chamber.

Sources:

§  Mahabharata of Vyasa – K.M.Ganguli

§  Wikipedia.

§  http://www.jagritmind.in/

§  http://prakuti.blogspot.in/

§  http://www.hindu-blog.com/

§  https://tavamithramsarvada.wordpress.com/

§  Stories of Mahabharat

        

         

Game of dice!

      

    

     

       Indraprastha was established and Rajasuya Yaga was conducted within 12 years of the establishment. The growth and success of King Yudhistra made Duryodhana jealous. The insult Duryodhana faced in the enchanted palace of King Yudhistra, in front of Draupathi made him more covetous and he desired for revenge.

      Duryodhana returned to Hastinapur with a bad temper. Filled with rage, he paced swiftly towards his assembly hall, followed by Uncle Saguni and Duchadhana. 

    “I was looking like a dupe in front of all! Draupathi, she laughed at me in such an insulting way. How dare she use that tone to me. –‘Blind man’s son is also blind!’ Ahhh…if she had said those words to me in Hastinapur, I would have killed her right that moment itself! Those Pandavas… no doubt…they invited us only to make me feel envious. They wanted to show off what they have got in such a short time. We still remain the same, whereas those sons of Pandu flourish and have more fun. That’s it! I’m done.” – Duryodhana was bursting out like a volcano.

“Brother!”- said Duchadhana, “Control yourself. We will find some way to kill those Pandavas in war. You will get to rule this whole world. Don’t push yourself so hard.”

“We??? War against the Pandavas!? Come on…open your eyes Duchadhana!”-Duryodhana turned towards Duchadhana and continued, “Pithamaha, Dronacharya and Vidhura all favor only the Pandavas. They will do everything to prevent war against those Pandavas. They will convince our father at all cost to make sure the Pandavas live a happy and prosperous life. In these 12 years, we remained inert while those Pandavas flourished and drenched in fortunes.”

“There will definitely be some way brother. We will defeat those Pandavas.”- Duchadhana tried to console his distressed brother.

“Oh come on! That old man Pithamaha is not even treating me as a prince and not considering my words. That Arjuna will get the whole world for his brother while my generalissimo will do nothing for me or for father, against the Pandavas.” – Duryodhana sounded exhausted.

“There is but one way to win…without war.” – Expert in dice game, Saguni spoke looking at the dice in his hand, “My dear Duryodhana! You need to look for a place to build a new assembly hall for this plan to work!”

Saguni and his dice!

      Duryodhana understood the reference of his uncle Saguni and ordered for the construction of a new assembly room, as soon as possible.

    “Duryodhana, My gift to you in the new hall will be your desire: to insult Draupathi and those sons of Pandu” – Saguni spoke with a cunning smile on his face, just like Duryodhana’s.

    A wide and spacious assembly hall was constructed in no matter of time with all its interiors decorated in gold and silver. The throne for the King was made out of gold and decorated with gems and precious stones.  The other seats for the princes and guests were made out of tusks and decorated with gems. The pillars of the hall were built using tusks and sandalwood. King Dhritarashtra sent invitation to every allied King and friends to see the hall.

“Oh King, dear Father, I would like to invite the Pandavas to see the newly constructed assembly hall. Would you send Vidhura on behalf of Hastinapur to invite them? We could even have a fun game in the hall, just among family! As brothers.” – Duryodhana spoke his next step of Saguni’s plan to King Dhritarashtra.

The king too sent Vidhura to invite the Pandavas and Draupathi. But, grandsire Pithamaha Bhishma and smart minister Vidhura guesstimated something’s devious on Duryodhana’s love towards the Pandavas. Vidhura left to Indraprastha on King’s advice.

“How nice of my brother and Uncle! So kind of them to invite us.”- Yudhistra continued, “Definitely we will come.”

“Yudhistra! I doubt the love for you all from Duryodhana. Something’s definitely suspicious. They need you to see the hall and have a game of dice. Something’s happening and I can say from the looks of Duryodhana and Saguni that it’s all proceeding just like they wish. And from what I know of Saguni and Duryodhana, I can say that it’s not good for you all.” -  Vidhura spoke with a concern.

“Uncle, of course we can’t trust Duryodhana’s love. But I can’t refuse an open invitation from King Dhritarashtra.” – Yudhistra spoke.

“All right. Visit the palace and the hall. But don’t play the game.”- Vidhura warned King Yudhistra.

“I won’t. Unless they ask me to. You know, as a king, I can’t refuse a challenge that’s placed in front of me. It’s against dharma to refuse it.” – King Yudhistra spoke with serenity.

“With expert in game of dice, Uncle Saguni by their side, we can easily say that they will cheat us.” – Arjuna cautioned his brother.

      “Of course, they will. But still, I can’t refuse it. It’s an order from our king, King Dhritarashtra.”- Yudhistra spoke about the delicateness of their side.

Bhishma

    Pandavas journeyed to Hastinapur with Draupathi. Allied Kings too visited Hastinapur. The day for the Pandavas went in spending time with Matha Kunti, Queen Gandhari and in visiting the places of the Palace and Hastinapur where they had their memorable childhood days. The queens left the assembly hall and retired to their respective rooms. The hall was left only with the kings.

        “So, it’s been a long time. Shall we play? A game of dice!” – Wicked Duryodhana asked Yudhistra.

      “As a king, I can’t refuse an open challenge from another King.” -  King Yudhistra spoke understanding the outcome.

      “Yes it is, then! Great! I challenge you, King Yudhistra, for a game of dice, in this assembly hall, in front of these assembled great people!” – Duryodhana spoke with happiness.

      "I accept.” – King Yudhistra replied.

    “Wait.” – reckoning something suspicious, Grandsire Bhisma spoke, “King Dhritarashtra, it’s not fair to ask a guest to gamble. We all know gambling is evil. As kings, we should be opposing it. Moreover, King Yudhistra has now only established his city and he needs to be approved as a great king in front of his people. It’s not good to gamble.”

    Listening to Pithamaha’s words, Duryodhana and Saguni’s face turned pale. “So keen to save his favourite Pandavas!”- Duryodhana mumbled to Uncle Saguni with anger.

   “Pithamaha! It’s just a fun game. What’s wrong in it?” - said King Dhritarashtra.

“Even if it’s for fun. We need to set some rules.”- Pithamaha was so firm.

“With great people like you seated in the hall, what might go wrong against dharma, Pithamaha? We won’t cheat and we all know about King Yudhistra.”- Saguni spoke with phoney respect.

“We are sure King Yudhistra will follow the path of dharma. We also know that he will forgive. If you assure nothing will go against dharma, why are you afraid of rules?” – Ingenious Vidhura asked Saguni.

Vidhura and King Dhritarashtra

“Duryodhana, See…another soul to protect the Pandavas. I was just wondering how he stayed silent!” – Saguni murmured to his favourite son-in-law and spoke with a fallacious esteem, “With you great people on the dais, what might go wrong is what I wonder. Fine then! It will be appropriate only if the idol of dharma who follows dharma sets the rules. Let Pithamaha Bhishma set the rules for the game.”

“Uncle! What’re you doing? If he sets the rules how can we execute our plan?!”- Duryodhana whispered in distress.

“Uh…My dear son-in-law! Duryodhana! What makes you think I will follow their orders!? Moreover, don’t underestimate your uncle’s talent. He is not only expert in rolling dice but also in manipulating words. Just stay calm and watch my game.”- Saguni pacified anxious Duryodhana.

Pithamaha sets the rules of the game, “Listen Duryodhana and King Yudhistra, the rules for the game that you are about to play. Though I don’t support the dice game which is only full of ruses, as I’m going to witness it, I want to make sure no adharma is done. Whenever there’s adharma, whenever there’s a disaster, the first person to be affected will be women. Even after the war, it’s the women who go through a lot than men. Hence, my first rule is that, no Kshatriya women should enter the premises till the game is finished.”

“Uncle!?!?!?!”- Duryodhana starred at Saguni, “Hush! Duryodhana! I know…stay calm”, saying so Saguni turned towards Bhishma and spoke, “Pithamaha! Servant maids can be allowed, right? They might help in helping the Kings in providing water and wine, when needed!”

“Yes. Only servant maids can be allowed. Second rule, while betting, one person can place only thing on which they have right to own and that too should be of equal value.”

“Grandsire! What is the meaning of this?!”- Frustrated Duryodhana asked Bhishma.

“Duryodhana, if you place your ornaments for bet, King Yudhistra should bet on the same, his ornaments. Same value. Also, you can’t place something you don’t own. Like, Hastinapur!”- Bhishma spoke in a firm voice.

“What!?!? I don’t have rights on Hastinapur!? How can you say that?!?! You work for Hastinapur! You don’t have rights. But I do!”- Enraged Duryodhana yelled at Grandsire Bhishma.

Bhishma, who displayed no reaction on Duryodhana’s words, spoke strongly and calmly, “You are only Prince. That’ doesn’t make you a King. So, you can’t place things that you don’t own or have rights on it. Bet on something that you own. No matter how small it is. I assure you, King Yudhistra too will be having the same thing, of same value.”

“Where’s the fun in it?!” – Duryodhana screamed irately.

“I don’t think dice game is the only way to have fun and relax in the lavishing city of Hastinapur. Gambling is clearly no fun game. If you don’t want to play, then stop the game right here, at this moment itself.”- Bhishma eyed sharply at Duryodhana for a moment and turned towards King Yudhistra and spoke, “Forgive me, on behalf of Hastinapur and Duryodhana for this trouble...”

Even before Pithamaha could finish his sentence, Saguni hindered and spoke, “Forgive us Pithamaha! We are fine with the rules. We’re playing only for relaxation. For fun, we should not cross lines with adharma. That’s bad. Wrong. So, we’re fine with the rules. All fine. If the rules are fine with the King then we can start the game.”

Saguni starred at Duryodhana and advised him to stay calm. With rules set, King Yudhistra and Duryodhana approved to play by the rules. King Yudhistra walked towards the board to play the game that’s going to be responsible not only for the change of his future but also for the future of the whole Bharat. Seated in his throne, King Yudhistra invited Duryodhana to take his seat.

“Well, King Yudhistra, I do have a small bit of change. My uncle Saguni will play on behalf of me.”- Duryodhana proceeded as per Saguni’s plan.

King Yudhistra spoke, “My dear brother, don’t you think what you are doing is heretical? Doesn’t seem like a fair play to me.”

“Well, playing this game is my right and I have the right to give it to anyone. I’m giving it to my uncle Saguni. It is dharma! Are you going to decline? I thought you just gave your word to play!” – Duryodhana prompted King Yudhistra.

King Yudhistra looked at the game board. “I know my incapability to resist for I have given my word. Well, what has to occur will occur. Uncle Saguni, please be seated. Let’s play.”

Game of fate!

Everyone in the hall knew that Saguni is not only an expert in dice game but also a finest trickster. There’s no chance for any player opposing him to win or even manipulate the game like him. Saguni and Duryodhana were both confident that Saguni will defeat King Yudhistra and that way, Duryodhana can have his revenge on the Pandavas and Draupathi, while Saguni could have his revenge on Hastinapur, silently, by paving path for its destruction through the dice game.

“Let the game begin.” – With Pithamaha Bhishma’s words, the game of fate begun.

“King Yudhistra, I would like to honor you. You are the guest here. So kindly you bet first. Here’s the dice. Roll it, to decide your fate!” – Saguni gave the dice to King Yudhistra with an illusive smile on his face.

“Thank You, King of Gandhara! I place one lakh worth gold coins as wager for the start.”-saying so, Yudhistra rolled the dice and in turn, his fate.

Of course, Yudhistra lost, as expected. But he didn’t stop. The game continued as planned by Saguni and Duryodhana. Yudhistra, with every roll of the dice lost everything- his ornaments, his palace, his chariots, his steeds, his servants, his land and unto the clothes he was wearing. With everything lost, Yudhistra was unable to continue.

“I have nothing to wager. I think this is it.”- King Yudhistra said with eyes on the board.

“Oh King! You do have things left.”- Saguni said to King Yudhistra and paused for a moment. He glanced at Duryodhana with wickedness and spoke to King Yudhistra, “You have your brothers!”

Everyone in the hall was taken aback. “That’s not fair. Stop the game right now.”- Vidhura was the one to break the silence.

“Oh! Minister Vidhura! Do you think an elder brother have no rights on his younger brothers?”-Saguni replied with a question and without expecting an answer, he turned towards King Yudhistra and spoke, “Is it so, Son of Pandu? Elder brothers have no rights on his younger brothers!?” Is it adharma? Enlighten me, O follower of dharma!”

Pithamaha Bhishma, Vidhura and Dronacharya understood the plan of Saguni and Prince Duryodhana, though they did not have a clue that it was only part of the plan.

“King of Gandhara! It’s dharma. An elder brother does have rights.”-saying so, he turned towards Duryodhana. “Prince Duryodhana, brother, do you consider this as a wise man’s act? The way you are playing the game: Is this even sagacious?”

Yudhistra on the losing side!

“It’s gambling, King of Indraprastha! Sorry…you aren’t the king anymore right! The game is going as per the rules worded by Pithamaha. Do you refuse?”- Duryodhana starred at Yudhistra and his brothers like a cunning fox staring at its prey.

“I know what I’m about to do. And I do know my brothers won’t forgive me for it.”- Saying so, Yudhistra rolled the dice again. Just four rolls to lose all of them-Nakula, Sahadeva, Arjuna and finally Bhīma!

“You do have yourself still! Your honor. Your liberty. And, your authority!”- Saguni dared Yudhistra.

Obviously, Yudhistra lost himself too. “Oh man! You lost. You have nothing to lose and you are nothing more than my servant! – Duryodhana laughed deviously.

“Duryodhana, don’t be hard on Yudhistra. He is still the follower of dharma! He is better than anyone in the game of dice and only today luck is not by his side, unluckily. Given a chance, he will definitely win back everything he lost to you. He is wise and challenging. Still he has not stopped playing. That’s Yudhistra! The ruler of Dharma!”- Saguni stormed at Duryodhana deceptively and starred at Yudhistra who was seated with head looking at ground, filled with shame.

“This is the end, uncle Saguni. What is left for me? I have nothing to lose!”- Yudhistra said halfheartedly.

“You still have one thing in your possession, Yudhistra. Wager it and win all that you have lost.”-Saguni said to Yudhistra. While every pair of puzzled eyes in the chamber was staring at Saguni, he had his eyes fixed on Yudhistra’s.

Seeing the uncertainty and mystified look in Yudhistra’s face, guileful Saguni said, “Wager your wife!”

Kunti meets Karna!

Sri Krishna, after informing Karna about his life’s secret and failing in persuading Karna made his second attempt in preventing the war. He informed Kunti about who her first son is. He asked Kunti to meet Karna and reveal the truth of her love for him.

The next day, early morning, by the time of sunrise, Kunti went to the banks of river Ganga where Karna will be worshipping the sun god. She waited patiently for Karna to finish his prayers.

Karna finished his prayers and saw Kunti waiting for him. Though Kunti’s eyes were filled with tears out of happiness and love for Karna, Karna was so calm. He bowed to Kunti and said, “Rajamatha! Karna, son of Adhiratha and Radhae bows to you with respect from the heart. Could you wait for a few moment while I go and donate to the Sadhus who are waiting for me?”

Kunti was impressed on Karna’s conduct. She watched proudly at Karna bestowing offerings to the Sadhus and getting blessings from them. After getting the blessings, he went towards Kunti and bowed again, “Rajamatha! Forgive me for my impolite manner of making you wait. Rajamatha! How may I assist you? What can I do you?”

Kunti felt gratified and spoke, “Oh Karna!  I’m delighted to see my son grown up in such a cultured manner. Karna, you are not Adhiratha’s son. You are not born to them. You…You…”-her words stumbled with mixed feeling of happiness, heaviness and humiliation. Kunti grasped her breath and continued, “Karna! You are my son. You were born to me. You were born as a result of a boon which I used on the sun god, trying to test the boon and Sun god unexpectedly… You are my son! You were born to me when I was in my parents’ house. You are my son!”

Karna was listening to Kunti’s words silently. Not delighted or shocked, Karna spoke calmly, “Matha! I know who you are. Krishna told me yesterday. I was born to you accidentally is what you are trying to say, right?”

Kunti was shocked listening to Karna’s words, “Karna! Forgive me for my choice of words. Forgive me for what I have done to you. It’s my fault. It’s my mistake. Being a princess, I felt ashamed and was afraid to take you to the palace or to introduce you to the people as my son, as you were born before me getting married. So I had no other choice but to leave you with a hope that someone will take care of you.”

“Of course, you felt ashamed. And as a result of that, I was treated gravely in front of all as a Charioteer’s son. Even your sons did it. My parents Adhiratha and Radhae took care of me. Right from the moment they took me in their hands, they have fed me, taught me, took care of me, were concerned about me, gave me strength and consoled and encouraged me when I was depressed. They were everything how a parent should me. Parenting is not only in giving birth but also in taking care of the kid and also in the way how you grow your kids and present them to the world. So, for everything that I’m now and for all the good things I do and for all the goodness and dharma in my heart, it’s all because of my parents, Adhiratha and Radhae. You have lost the right to call me as your son for you have abandoned me. You might have introduced me to this world but yet they are my parents. I wouldn’t leave them for this world.”-Karna spoke firmly yet reverently.

Kunti was moved to tears on listening to Karna’s words. Yet she regained her strength and spoke, trying to get Karna to her side, “Karna! I’m proud of you. Now that you know who you are, you can at least come to the Pandavas side, right? You will have five brothers to support and defend you. You will be the King. After this war, you will get to rule Hastinapur and even the world. You know that Duryodhana and his brothers are doing adharma and as a humanitarian you know that you have to support dharma. Pandavas are fighting for dharma. Join them. Battle against Duryodhana and his army. You, as an elder brother, can fight for your brothers, right?”

Karna was now dazed on hearing Kunti’s words. “Matha! How can you even say those words? Duryodhana may be following adharma, what he is doing now might not be what everybody wants, but, yet, he is my friend. I’m indebted to him. How do you expect me to come to the Pandavas? They are Duryodhana’s archenemies. And with the war, they will be my nemesis too. Especially, Arjuna. How do you expect me to come and live with you all? Draupathi insulted me in her Suyamwar, calling me as a low-caste. When Arjuna and others insulted me in the arena calling me as a non-Kshatriya, it was only Duryodhana who defended me. He was the only one who valued my talent irrespective of my caste. He was the one who gave this life that I’m living now, as a King. All those offerings I do are from his money. This life, wealth and recognition are all given by him. If I leave him now, I will be this world’s most selfish hearted person forever. Moreover, Duryodhana knew that Pithamaha and Dronacharya won’t kill the Pandavas. So, he has started this war trusting me. He has supported me all my life like any friend would do and I would not betray him at this time of need. If I betray him now, then there’ll be no difference in the way you have betrayed me and what you ask me to do now. So, I won’t leave Duryodhana for this world for I’m grateful to him, forever.”

Kunti felt ashamed and cried for all the insults Karna has faced because of her abandoning him. Karna was silent for few moments and spoke, “Matha! I wouldn’t leave Duryodhana. I don’t have a reason to fight in Pandavas side. This war is Draupathi’s war. Not my brothers’ war. And, my brothers have the right to fight on behalf of their wife. I have no reason at all. Even if I have reason, I wouldn’t raise my bow against Duryodhana. I know that what Duryodhana is doing is adharma. But to me, the world’s dharma and the Pandavas’ dharma don’t count. Even if I’m on the side of adharma, I’m happy to follow my dharma. And my dharma is, ‘to protect my friend Duryodhana and be there for him, when he needs me.’ Even if I’m getting killed because of me following my dharma, I will die with peace in my heart.”

Kunti spoke in a pain filled voice, “Oh Karna! I’m proud of you. I’m honored on giving birth to you. But, no mother will have the heart to watch her sons fighting against each other. As a mother, I don’t have a heart to see the Pandavas killing you or you killing them. So, kindly come to the Pandavas side.”

Karna was calm for a moment, smiled and spoke, “Well, So this is what Krishna sent you here for. If dharma has to be sustained, the Pandavas should live. Well, it’s dharma that will sustain on this earth for its Krishna’s desire. And I’m on its way, blocking it. Well…” Karna looked at Kunti and spoke, “Matha! As you are here to see me, I don’t wish to send you back empty-handed. So, here’s my promise. I promise you that among the Pandavas, I will kill only Arjuna. I will not kill the rest four of the Pandavas. So, after the war, if I die, you will have the Pandavas with you. If Arjuna dies, then I will be there for you along with the other four of the Pandavas. So, you will always have five sons. All you will bear is the pain of losing one son.”

Kunti spoke, “Karna. Could you do me a favor? It’s a favor from a mother for her son. Could you assure me that you will use the Brahmastra at Arjuna only once?”

         “From a mother… for her son! To her son!”-Karna understood Kunti’s favor and spoke, “And I was wrong. It’s not the Pandavas but only Arjuna who Krishna wants. I believe, now I know who you will be losing in the war. I’m happy that at least Krishna acknowledged my strength and talent against Arjuna, though sadly, I get to know it only this way. Well, as a favor to my mother, I promise you that I will use the Brahmastra only once at Arjuna. And I’m sure Krishna has got plans for that one time too! Matha, as a son, I would also like to ask for a favor from you.”

         Kunti sobbed for her selfish and disgraceful act and spoke, “Karna! I don’t think I have the right. I’m not a good hearted person like you. It’s the first time you are asking for. Ask me whatever you want.”

         “Matha, I would like you to keep this secret as a secret itself. I don’t want the Pandavas or the Kauravas to know about it. If the Pandavas know about it, they won’t fight against me. If Duryodhana comes to know about it, he won’t have the courage to win this war. Also, it will stir a mixed up emotions and confusions in everyone. So, I would like you to keep it as a secret, till the war ends. In case, if I die in the battle ground, I would like you to be there for me. You can only then reveal that I’m your son.”

         Kunti was terrified on hearing Karna words. “Karna! My son! I don’t have the heart to even think of you dying. It’s ripping my heart apart. If only I have kept you with me, you would not have gone through all those insults and sufferings. I’m the one who is responsible for you to be like this! For everything!”- Kunti started crying.

         “Matha, I would like you to do me only this favor. I know Krishna won’t be saying the truth to the Pandavas or to Draupathi. I would like you to do the same. I have to do preparations for the war and Duryodhana will be expecting me. I will take leave from you.”- Karna spoke in a humble voice and took her blessings and left for the palace.

         Kunti, unable to bear the truth and holding responsibility for Karna’s destiny left the banks with a heavy heart.