Krishna in Hastinapur!

Krishna leaving for Hastinapur

“I will go to the court of Hastinapur for the sake of both of you. Though I know how it will end, I will talk in favor of peace, for you two’s satisfaction.”

Krishna recalled the words he spoke to King Yudhistra and Arjuna. The sun was mildly supping the dew drops embracing the grasses as Krishna performed his morning rites.

 “Satyaki, kindly prepare my chariot for my journey to Hastinapur. Get all my weapons and my conch too. Though I go in favor of peace, it’s hard to expect the same from Duryodhana and Uncle Saguni.” – Krishna said to Satyaki.

 Krishna then went to the chambers of Draupathi.

“Draupathi, I am leaving for Hastinapur. Favoring peace.”- said Krishna.

“O Madhava! Krishna! Is the womanhood of this earth not worth for being respected and be treated with honor? If you go in favor of peace, then how will this world and Duryodhana will know how to respect women? I know that your smile and talks can change even the minds of Mother Nature. Duryodhana is nothing for you.”- Draupathi spoke with distress.

Krishna smiled - “Draupathi, worry not. War is inevitable. Trust in Duryodhana and Uncle Saguni, in this case, than in your husbands. They will make it happen, no matter what.”

Meanwhile, on Satyaki’s command, his deputies prepared Krishna’s chariot swiftly. The chariot was decorated with fragrant filled flowers and precious gems. The golden flag staff was furnished and was bearing the flag of the King of birds, Garuda. The four famous steeds of Krishna that swift quicker than light and air – Saivya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa and Valahaka were attached to the chariot. The steeds were covered in golden ornaments and studded with gems and pearls. The celestial chariot appeared divine and magnificent with Krishna on it.

Krishna bid farewell to the Pandavas and started for Hastinapur. The citizens of Upaplavya came to the streets to get a glimpse of the illustrious Krishna. Though his steeds were riding faster than light, chill breeze blew in the chariot where Krishna was seated. It rained Lotus all through the way wherever the chariot went. The lotus covered the thorns and even the prickly and tetchy grasses on the road. The people gathered at the corners of the road and welcomed Krishna to their place. They worshipped him and honored him with curd, lotus, fruits, honey and sweets. Accepting the pure devotion, Krishna continued for Hastinapur. Fragrance of Lotus filled the whole area and the wind carried it with pleasure to the nearby villages to indicate the arrival of Krishna.

Hastinapur

In the meantime, darkness covered the elegant city of Hastinapur. The clouds poured relentlessly. The wells, lakes and ponds were flooded in few hours. The wind carried the dusts of the city and spread it all over the streets and even the into the houses. King Dhritarashtra witnessed the sudden change in climate in his city and was helpless.

“O Vidhura! Why the sky and wind is being so harsh towards us today? What is this indication, like a bad omen?” – Confused King asked his minister Vidhura.

“It is, in fact, an indication of bad omen, King, indicating us about the depravities we have done. The spies informed that Krishna has left for Hastinapur. It’s as if like the rain and wind is washing away the immoralities of Hastinapur to welcome him. He will be here, expecting peace from our side. In case, if you listen to Duryodhana and Saguni and go in favor of them, the peace talk measures will be unsuccessful and will end in war. A war in which, for sure, Duryodhana will never be able to win, with Krishna on Pandavas’ side. The bad omen is the indication of annihilation of your dynasty and sons. The decision is in your hands now, dear brother.” – Vidhura said with concern.

Krishna in Vrikasthala

With Krishna nearing Hastinapur, the wind and rain stopped and retired for the day. With twilight nearing, Krishna reached the city of Vrikasthala.

“Daruka, free the steeds. Let them rest. We’ll stay here for the night.”- Saying so, he descended from the chariot and prepared himself for the evening rituals and prayers.
Daruka and the servants prepared a temporary bivouac for their stay and prepared delicious food and drinks for supper. People of Vrikasthala and Brahmins came to know of Krishna’s stay and honored him. The servants honored the guests and provided delicious sweets and food. After spending his time with the saints and Brahmins, Krishna had his dinner and retired for the day.

In Hastinapur, Krishna’s visit to the city spread like wildfire and the people cleaned their house and streets to welcome Krishna. The Palace of Hastinapur was restless. Decorators were called upon to decorate the palace with flowers and pearls and precious gems. Great chefs were called to prepare delicious sweets, drinks and dishes. The servants and servant maids of the palace cleansed the floors and gardens. King Dhritarashtra failed trying to calm himself. He called for the council in the palace court.

Vidhura rose from his seat and said – “O great souls of Kuru, the mighty Krishna is visiting Hastinapur on behalf of the Pandavas. He deserves to be honored. Make arrangements to welcome him, majestically. The citizens will wait for him not minding the hot sun. Set up cupolas and towers for them. Also, set marquee on the road, from the city gates to the palace, so that Krishna and his people can stay away from the scorching sun and heat. Water the streets at regular intervals so that the roads will be dust-free. Duryodhana, as a prince of the city, make sure you take care of all these activities to gratify him. Confirm with Pithamaha regarding the arrangements for Krishna’s stay.”

“He is just a cowherd. And you all welcome him and treat him like god! That Krishna is visiting to Hastinapur to shatter my dreams and you all want me to welcome him wholeheartedly!” – Duryodhana thought to himself and glimpsed Vidhura and nodded in acceptance.

King Dhritarashtra

Seated restlessly on his throne, King Dhritarashtra said – “Krishna will be here. I am going to honor him like no other Kings. Krishna would never have and never ever will receive such an honor from any king of this world. We should welcome him from the gates itself. I want all my sons and grandsons to go to the gates and welcome Krishna. They should wear silk attires and precious gems studded ornaments. The horses they ride should also be adorned with gold and precious gems studded ornaments. Let them be led by thousand beautiful young dancing girls. Make them wait in front of the gates to receive him. They too should wear silk attires and gold ornaments. Duryodhana, you alone stay in the palace for, as a prince, you should receive him while he is entering the palace. Oh...and during his stay...in the palace… we can’t ask him to stay in the regular guest house. Duchadhana, your manor is spacious and has got a balcony with a magnificent view. Prepare your manor for Krishna’s stay. Change the mattresses and every other stuff. I want your manor to be cleaned and decorated immediately. Fill the rooms with new furniture and couches. Make sure they are made out of sandalwood and gold, Duchadhana. And the bed and pillows should be softer than feather. Even the chairs should be made out of gold and studded with gems. The utensils he uses should be made out of gold. The lawn, floors and walls should be spotless.”

Duchadhana and Duryodhana shared looks mocking at the state of their father. On receiving the King’s command, Duchadhana took permission and left the council to prepare his castle for Krishna’s stay.

“As a King, I should receive him and honor him, right! What will impress him?” – King Dhritarashtra thought for a moment and said, “I will present him 16 carts filled with gold ornaments, precious gems and rare pearls. The carts too will be made of gold. Each cart should be drawn by four healthy Vahlika breed steeds, all of them of same color, size and weight. I will give him eight gigantic elephants, each with enormous and whitish tusks. And 18,000 woolen blankets and coverlet made from the wool of the sheep of the Himalayas. An
d a thousand deer skins those came from China. Then...my new chariot! The one that was made out of gold…even the seats made out of gold and adorned with gems and drawn by mules. Oh…Vidhura...get that precious gemstone that we got from the merchants; the stone that shines bluish even in daylight too. It’s really exquisite and one glimpse at it will compose the heart. Only Krishna is worth holding such an exquisite gemstone.”

"Your acts define your purpose, O King"- Vidhura

Listening to King’s words, Vidhura spoke, “O King! Everyone knows your purpose of welcoming and handling Krishna majestically. Your acts define your purpose. What you are trying to do won’t impress Krishna. We all know that Krishna cannot be impressed by wealth and richness. He won’t even set eyes on your presents. All these presents of yours, will not bring Krishna to your side or even make him speak in favor of Duryodhana. Instead, give what the Pandavas desire and Krishna will definitely favor you by saving your sons.”

Pithamaha who was silent spoke, “O King, after what Duryodhana has done to Draupathi and to her husbands, the Pandavas still favored peace, forgiving your sons and asked for only five villages. You weren’t eager to make peace with them even though the fault is in our side. If you think showing off your wealth will bring Krishna to your side, then I can say that what you are thinking is idiocy. Devotion and love is the only thing to which Krishna surrenders. Such is Krishna’s nobility. Arjuna and Draupathi have devoted themselves to Krishna and so, trust me; you cannot separate Krishna from the Pandavas. This foolish act of yours will lead only to the annihilation of your sons, grandsons and Kinsmen. Instead of this madness, respect Krishna’s desire and go in peace with the Pandavas. Give five villages to them or at least Indraprastha. That way, you can earn respect in Krishna’s heart and also you can save your sons and grandsons. And… of course… the throne that you desire, desperately. Think as a father and engage in measures to protect your sons.”

Dronacharya spoke favoring Pithamaha and Vidhura – “O King, Krishna knows the difference between deceitfulness and honesty. Listen to Vidhura and Pithamaha’s words. Go in peace with the Pandavas. Accept to Krishna’s desire. It’s the only way to save your sons.”

Duryodhana who was staying calm all this time stood from his seat and said – “O Great souls of earth, I accept your words. Krishna cannot be separated from the Pandavas. Father’s acts won’t impress him. But, I cannot worship him like you all. To me, he is just a Gopa who got lucky. You all are afraid of his strength, his magic, his Narayani Sena and his charm. I’m not afraid of him. It’s a shame for a Kshatriya to be afraid. Afraid of his strength and accepting to whatever he says is a disgrace to me and to my Kshatriya dharma. The people will insult me when they hear that I surrendered to him. War, for sure, is going to happen. So, his charisma and tricks aren’t going to work this time for he is going to return with failure.”

Pithamaha said – “Duryodhana! Krishna is your final protector. His visit is your only chance to live a happy life, as a King. You respect him or disrespect him, it doesn’t matter to him. But, for your old man’s sake, for your mother’s sake, this one time, listen to Krishna and go with peace. It only benefits you.”

“Pithamaha! I cannot live by sharing my property with the Pandavas. You all support Pandavas because of that Krishna. With Krishna by their side, you all fear that the Pandavas will win. Believe me; we have Uncle Saguni, a better trickster than Krishna. We have the mighty Narayani Sena by our side while Krishna is going to participate only as a charioteer. My Guru, Krishna’s brother, Balram is mighty and strong. He is an influential warrior. This Krishna has got only charming smile and an appealing charisma. I will prove you all who is strong and who is weak, tomorrow. I will incarcerate that Krishna in front of you all and prove my valor. At least, witnessing that, I hope, you all get enthused to fight against the Pandavas. And by doing so, you all will also be embarrassed for being terrified of a butter-thief and also, for thinking stumpy of my talents and strength.”

"I have no fear for that Krishna!" - Duryodhana

Listening Duryodhana’s words, everyone in the council were stunned. “O Son! Duryodhana! Don’t ever speak or even think like that. He is visiting Hastinapur as peace envoy. He is loved and respected by everyone here and also, it was you who favored Narayani Sena over Krishna. You did not feel bad for losing Krishna when Arjuna asked for Krishna than the army. It is not his fault to be in Pandavas’ side. Above all, he is our relative. Treat him like a guest and show some respect. We have tinted our soul with sins and don’t thicken the layer. Your measures will drag us all into an inexorable death.”- the King spoke with distress.

“Father, as a future King, I have no fear for that Krishna like you all. You all think he is god. You all believe he is our creator and protector. I will prove that you all are wrong.” – Duryodhana spoke with arrogance.

“Duryodhana! What we have for Krishna is not fear. It’s devotion. Allegiance. Surrender. Don’t do anything foolish. Don’t even think anything unwise for he knows everything even before it could happen.” – Vidhura warned Duryodhana.

“Ah…Now I see it. It’s only because of listening to your words, my father too fears that Krishna.” – Duryodhana spoke without descending from his level of ego.

“Duryodhana!” – Roared Pithamaha – “Remember that you are inviting your death with every word you speak ill of Krishna.”

He then turned towards the King and said – “Dhritarashtra! Your son has lost his senses completely. He did not think about his brothers, his son, his followers, kinsmen and friends. He is going way beyond rescue precinct. Stop him immediately or be prepared to mourn for the death of your sons in the nearing future.”

Speaking furiously, Pithamaha Bhishma left the court room swiftly. Duryodhana left the court room with his uncle Saguni to proceed with his plans to imprison Krishna.  The night seemed long as King Dhritarashtra was sleepless and disturbed, worried on Duryodhana’s attitude and the effects it possibly will bring.

*** Strategy to seize Krishna ***

Duryodhana, Uncle Saguni and Duchadhana gathered in Duryodhana’s chamber to discuss about the plans for seizing Krishna.

Hastinapur lighted!

“Its late night and still these people are awake, decorating their homes, as if he is going to visit everyone’s house, individually!” – Sneered Duchadhana from the balcony, watching the people bright and excited.

“Forget about them. Focus here, brother. We have less time.” – Warning his brother, Duryodhana turned towards Saguni and said– “Are you sure of this plan? Why not seize him in front of all? Why this hole and all?”

“O Duryodhana! Don’t think of Krishna like us. He is capable of doing things unimaginable. Best trickster ever. Illusionist… Chief Juggler. Moreover, if that eagle–eyed Pithamaha notices our soldiers in front of the court, he will command them to leave and the soldiers too will follow his orders only. How’s the progress in the courtroom?” – Enquired Saguni.

“O they are decorating the court room.”- replied Duchadhana nonchalantly.

“Duchadhana!! He’s asking about our plan’s progress.” – Yelled Duryodhana and replied to Saguni – “O Uncle, I have asked the people to dig a hole near the King’s throne, where Krishna’s seat will be. It will be done before sunset. The hole will be closed using slackly fixed wooden board and a highly decorated carpet will cover it all. Above it, his chair will be placed.”

Duchadhana continued, “I have gathered few of our loyal soldiers to seize him, once he falls into the pit. Soldiers will be waiting with weapons and chains.”

“It’s going to be an unforgettable day for all of the old ones tomorrow. May be, will be a haunting day.” – smiled Saguni cunningly.

“For us…it will be most cherished and treasured day.” – grinned Duchadhana.

*** IN HASTINAPUR ***

Hastinapur awaiting Krishna's arrival!

        The sun rose in the east, eager to wake up Krishna. Krishna finished his morning prayers and had his breakfast. Bidding farewell from the Brahmins and the people of Vrikasthala he set out for Hastinapur.

       The whole of Hastinapur was shining with a dazzling look, to welcome Krishna. People dressed up in new clothes were waiting to welcome Krishna. The whole city was bustling in festive mood, celebrating the arrival of Krishna. Pithamaha Bhishma, Dronacharya, Krpacharya and the sons of King Dhritarashtra except Duryodhana gathered in front of the city gates to welcome Krishna. Witnessing the arrival of grandsire Bhishma, people too gathered on the streets with flowers. The moment conch was blown signifying the arrival of Krishna, the whole of city was excited and everyone gathered on the streets. The men did not go to work, the women did not perform their household activities, even the youngsters and kids did not go to have fun and play games. Everyone remained on the streets to welcome Krishna and to get a glimpse of him.

Krishna in Hastinapur streets

         Grandsire Bhishma gave a warm welcome to Krishna. Following Krishna’s chariot, the sons of the King rode their steeds while Dronacharya and Pithamaha escorted Krishna from the front. Krishna’s chariot entered the city and the gathered crowd cheered reciting loudly Krishna’s name and showered at him with the flowers and garlands they have brought. Though the city was exquisitely decorated not only with flowers but also with precious gems and pearls, Krishna was not seen to be impressed at all. He didn’t even care to take a glimpse. Rather than the decorations, Krishna kept his eyes only on the delighted people of Hastinapur. Daruka rode Krishna’s chariot slowly so that every single citizen of Hastinapur will get to witness Krishna.

        The chariot reached the palace gates. King Dhritarashtra, accompanied by Queen Gandhari, Matha Kunti, Duryodhana, Vidhura, Aswathama and Saguni welcomed Krishna. King Dhritarashtra and everyone gathered greeted Krishna for his arrival. Krishna greeted everyone. The King himself escorted Krishna to the court room. King Dhritarashtra honoured Krishna with presents. Krishna spent time with the King, the saints, Pithamaha, Dronacharya and everyone else. Pithamaha and Dronacharya enquired about the well-being of the Pandavas. Krishna then took permission from the King and left to Matha Kunti’s chamber. Spending time with Matha Kunti and Queen Gandhari, Krishna bid farewell and went to the court again.

         Greeting everyone gathered, Krishna spoke – “O King, I will take leave now. Will meet you all in the court by tomorrow morning.”

         Seated in his throne, Duryodhana spoke – “O Krishna! We have made arrangements for your stay. You can have food and rest here. We have prepared delicious food for you.”

         Krishna smiled – “Duryodhana! So kind of you. But, as I’m here as an ambassador of peace and not as relative, I cannot have food here and I cannot stay here. An envoi is not supposed to eat or have pleasure till their mission is successful. I am here on behalf of the Pandavas and you have an unreasonable hatred towards them. So, I can’t accept your food and pleasures. I will stay in Vidhura’s abode. I will take leave now, O King!”

Waiting for Krishna in front of the Palace!

    Bidding farewell, Krishna left the palace along with Vidhura and Kunti. 

People followed Krishna from the palace gates till he reached Vidhura's house. With delight filled heart, Krishna blessed everyone gathered in front of Vidhura’s house as Vidhura and Satyaki along with their servants treated the devotees with food, gold and precious gems.
       Delighted and at the same time, thrilled on Krishna’s stay in his abode, Vidhura gave Krishna a warm welcome. He offered honey and curd to Krishna. “I have no words to explain my happiness and bliss. I’m really blessed to have you stay in my home. Compared to your palace in Dwaraka or the manor prepared for your stay here, my house is a small cottage. My happiness has got no boundary, O Krishna. Do feel free to ask. I will do everything to make your stay comfortable.” – Vidhura spoke with delight. 

*** IN VIDHURA’S HOUSE ***

        
     Vidhura, with great care took care of everything for Krishna’s hassle-free stay. Kunti and Vidhura’s wife prepared delicious dinner for everyone. Everyone dined together after pleasing the Brahmins with good food.
      After dining, Krishna and Vidhura sat for refreshment in the balcony. Vidhura was peeling oranges and bananas and grapes for Krishna. Vidhura never took his eyes off Krishna. Even a slight change of expression in Krishna’s face too was noticed by Vidhura. Vidhura delighted himself without taking his eyes from Krishna. He even at times gave orange skin instead of the fruit. Krishna too ate the skin without a word. Though Krishna knew about it, he smiled to himself and behaved as if he didn’t notice any of it.

Krishna and Vidhura

“O Madhava, forgive Duryodhana for his disrespect towards you in the court. His ego is leading him in the path of destruction. Gandhara King Saguni too is implanting evil thoughts in Duryodhana’s mind. Years of practice and Saguni’ words and activities have made Duryodhana a sinister. He never listens to great people; he disrespects everyone and even stopped obeying his father’s words. To him, only he is wise and talented. Even his brothers too inflexibly believe his words, except for Vikarna. Vikarna understands the fact but his words, Duryodhana never listens to him. He is totally obsessed by greed, desire, throne and ego. I believe peace is unachievable. Especially with Duryodhana and Saguni not ceasing their lunacy.” -  Said Vidhura.

Krishna smiled – “O Vidhura! I know the badness in Duryodhana’s heart. I know that he won’t be ready for peace. Yet I visited Hastinapur. All the wise words of Pithamaha or Dronacharya or yours or even the King’s is not making any impact on Duryodhana. Not anymore too. Those words are like clouds carrying rain water. The clouds will make impact only on earth but it will not affect the sky above. Duryodhana is the sky, in this case. If Duryodhana fails to listen to my words, it’s only an act of destiny. War is upon Hastinapur and the reason will be Duryodhana and Saguni. I have full confidence that dharma will be sustained on earth, no matter what.”

“Regrettably, the destruction of the world is at hand. And it’s happening all because of one man’s greediness to rule as the King.”

“Indeed Vidhura. Showing disrespect towards a woman and greediness are indeed the worst sin. And Duryodhana has sadly done both the sins. Tomorrow, Duryodhana’s behaviour is going to decide the world’s fate.” – Krishna said in a concerned voice.

Vidhura took permission from Krishna and left to his room. Krishna too retired for the day and went to his bed to get a good sleep, for he knows, the next day is going to be a big day.