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!”

Uluka-The Messenger

    

     It was the night before the great Kurukshetra war. Duryodhana who finds pleasure in insulting the Pandavas made sure he insults them further more before entering the battle field. He was totally certain that he will win the war for sure and he wanted to show his dominance and his contempt towards the Pandavas. So, he asks Uluka, Son of Saguni to go as a messenger to the Pandavas’ camp to convey his message. Saguni, Uluka, Duchadhana and Karna were present in Duryodhana’s camp while Duryodhana was delivering his message .

     Duryodhana looked up at Uluka and said-“Oh Uluka, go as a messenger to the Pandavas’ camp. Speak to those Pandavas the words that I ‘m going to speak, in the manner I say it. Look at Yudhistra directly in his eyes and say this: “Yudhistra, the time has finally come. It’s time for action. No more words and no more sentiments. We are about to fight a frightful war all because of you. Your sentimental and ostentatious peace talks through that juggler Krishna and Sanjaya are now understood that those were just dramas from your end to make everyone look at you as a peace lover. It’s so sad to see that your performances didn’t work well and you get to gather only those few people on your side for that so-called army.”

         Duryodhana narrowed his eyes and laughed in a mocking way. “Oh Son of Pandu, How do you even consider yourself as an honest and honorable man when you try to destroy the world and the life of the people who support you all just for your desire to rule Hastinapur? You present yourself as the most spiritual and virtuous person yet you have wicked intentions covertly inside your heart, like the cat in the story that Rishi Narada told to my father once.”

“If you are wondering which story, here it is: “Once upon a time, there was a cat that went to the Ganges. Standing on the bank of the river with upraised front paws, he said in a firm tone, “I am going to practice asceticism from now on. I will walk on the path of spirituality.” Saying so, the cat started carrying out its austerity, more seriously. The cat’s asceticism and serene conduct made the birds and mice to trust him. They even praised the cat’s devotion and in course time, they even took shelter of him, protected the cat from rain and cold. The birds and mice even forgot that the cat is their natural enemy and that it’s in the cat’s blood to feed on them. They went to the cat one day and said in most humble voice,” Oh great soul, we seek your protection. Be our refuge. Be like a best friend who helps us at times of trouble and protect us from our enemies.” The cat agreed halfheartedly and said-‘I will do whatever I can. You people have helped me during my austerity. It’s all because of your support I was able to carry out my austerity. But there’s a small favor I would need from you guys. My austerities without food has made me weaker and it’s tough for me to walk to the banks of the river to take bath. If one of you can assist me daily in taking me to the river for bath, I will be more grateful to you all.’ The mice and the birds believed in the cat’s words and they agreed to it. Every day morning, when the cat goes for taking bath, either a mice or a bird would assist the cat to the banks of river Ganges. The cat would eat them. While returning, the cat would lie that they left while he was taking bath. The cat would behave like it is eating fruits and vegetables daily. This went on for days and as a result, the cat grew fat and stronger whereas the count of the mice and birds withered. One wise mouse realized what’s happening. The mice gathered all and said, “Friends, if a cat is feeding on just fruits and vegetables, there’s no chance it could become this fat. Those who accompany the cat to the banks are missing daily. It clearly means that the cat is eating them. The cat is only pretending to be following the path of spirituality but in real, it’s feeding on us. We will be safe only if we all escape from the cat.” The other mice and birds agreed to it and they fled away. The abandoned cat came to know that the mice and birds realized its plan and escaped. Saddened, the cat too returned to where it came from.”

Wax house

   “Oh Yudhistra, You are just like the cat. Accompanied by your brothers, you are behaving in the same way. You speak as if you are a gentleman but in real, your acts say otherwise. At least in this battle, come out and fight like you are a Kshatriya. Don’t hide yourself. Your mother, Matha Kunti was crying all the time while you people were in exile. At least try to satisfy her. Win this war, if it is possible, for her sake. She might think at least now that she has given birth to only Kshatriyas. Show us your real strength. Don’t fall for your weakness and go for the peace talks again. Remember all those I have done to you all: Poisoning Bhīma, The wax house, Insulting Draupathi, the dice game…Oh there are lots that I can bring up but I believe these are more than enough to make you people come and fight. With that so-called army! Oh yeah! Army! Yudhistra, don’t get scared tomorrow on seeing the vast army of mine marching to destroy you people and your hope of survival because we are fighting under the mighty Bhishma, Dronacharya, Krpacharya and my Karna.”

Duryodhana ridiculed and mocked the Pandavas and their army. He taunted them reminding about the vows they took during Draupathi’s Cheer Haran- “Oh, I insulted your wife and dragged her to the court and you all stood there doing nothing. How do you all consider yourself as a Kshatriya? How do you even consider yourself as a man when you let someone else drag your wife? Draupathi was not insulted by me or by my brothers but by you all, the Pandavas. She came to this family believing you five and yet you all left her unfortified. Shame on you all, sons of Pandu. You five stood there like dead meat while your wife was insulted and do you all even consider yourself as great warriors!?  If you all are man, don’t let your insult go unavenged.”  He admired himself for all his powers and also his victory in sending the Pandavas to exile. He delivered his individual message to every son of Pandu. He conveyed his message to Krishna too, in his own way.

Cheer Haran

      Duryodhana laughed admiring at his power. He continued his egotistical message as a result of the encouragements from Saguni and Duchadhana. They cheered him to speak more ill of the Pandavas and Draupathi. Duryodhana continued his boastful message,” I am far superior to you all. I have made you guys live in exile. I have made you all live in fear by hiding yourself. The alleged talented Arjuna wore bangles to hide from me. Bhīma, the one who swore to kill me and my brothers, hid himself in the kitchen, cleaning pots and utensils. Is this not enough to prove that I am superior? Remember, I have no fear on Krishna or the Pandavas or any of the fools and chumps who chose to fight against me. No matter what you all try, I will never let you, the Pandavas, to live. I will never give you people land to rule. I, in fact, will remove you all from the face of the earth. Let the battle begin tomorrow. Then you people will realize your idiocy in fighting against me. You all are like the fish in a tank that never knows about ocean. You all think yourself so high and talented than the mighty and multi-talented gurus like Pithamaha Bhishma, Dronacharya and Krpacharya. You all are like ants trying to render a mountain with its teeny-weeny teeth. Come to the battle field tomorrow morning to see how vast my army is. To know how many supporters are there for me. The moment you see the vast limitless army of mine, not only your desire to rule Hastinapur but even your beliefs of ruling the world will disappear. For tomorrow, I am going to prove you all, yet again that I am the rightful ruler of this world.”

Duryodhana concluded his message and told Uluka to deliver the message, as it is. Uluka memorized every single word of Duryodhana’s one hour long message. He mounted on his chariot and rode towards the camp of the Pandavas. Uluka knew that Duryodhana’s message will provoke the Pandavas. He felt his nerves trembling out of fretfulness while he was entering the tent of the Pandavas. Krishna, the Pandavas, Dhrishtadyumna, Sikandi and other chiefs were present in the tent.

Uluka bowed in front of Yudhistra and continued in a quivering tone, "I have come here on the command of Duryodhana. Kindly see me only as a messenger. On hearing my words, don’t get angry on me for I will speak only what Duryodhana has told me to say and nothing more. No part of the message I convey comes from my heart.”

Yudhistra smiled at Uluka and showed him a seat to sit and relax. “Don’t be afraid, Uluka. We have no reason to be mad at you. Speak freely. We all know that my brother, Duryodhana has his own reasons to rule Hastinapur and that he has failed to see what this war means to him and to his brothers. He failed to anticipate the effect of this war on Pithamaha and Guru Dronacharya, for his head is full of pride and insatiability. We know that the news you brought is definitely not peace favoring. Tell us what he has conveyed through you. You are only a messenger and we won’t hurt the messengers.”

Uluka sensed that all pairs of eyes in the tent were fixed upon him. With a heavy burden running through his nerves, Uluka cleared his throat and stood up. He started conveying Duryodhana’s message. While he was continuing, he felt the ire and agitations developing around him. With nerves of fear, Uluka started conveying the message that was meant for the five brothers and the separate message meant for Yudhistra.

Uluka paused to grasp his breath wondering this might even be his last breath. Bhīma utilized the moment of gap and rose from his seat. He started to move towards Uluka with anger. Yudhistra stopped Bhīma saying, “Bhīma, he is just a messenger. Control yourself and be seated. Let’s listen to the rest.”

Yudhistra turned towards Uluka and said in a polite voice,” Uluka, Do you need something to ease your throat? Take your time and relax. You said that Duryodhana has sent message to all of my brothers. Convey the rest too.”

Uluka staggered without words. “Do you really want to hear the rest too?”- He mumbled in fear.

          Of course. We have to, right?”- Yudhistra said with a dejected smile.

   Uluka turned his eyes towards Bhīma who was already ready to explode anytime. Uluka stood silent for a moment, took a deep breath and continued-"Duryodhana’s next message is for Bhīma. He says: “You boaster! I heard you have become a good cook after working in King Virada’s Kitchen. You vowed that you will rip Duchadhana’s heart and drink his blood, right! Let me tell you something. Holding a knife in kitchen is not the same as holding a mace in battle. Do you even remember how to hold a mace? If you choose asylum, I can allow you to cook in my kitchen, considering your experiences!”

Uluka knew that hearing the message Bhīma would really be enraged. So, he didn’t even pause to give time for Bhīma to respond or react. He turned towards Arjuna and continued, “Duryodhana says-“Arjuna! Partha! The greatest archer in this world,ever!! I heard you spent your time in Virada’s kingdom with women. Singing, dancing and having fun! Heard you were into it. It was difficult to differentiate you from other ladies in the palace it seemed. I wonder how a person like you is going to kill …no… no… no...’Killing’ is a tough effort for you, Hmmm…’stand against’ will be the correct term! Right, how is it that someone like you is going to stand against the great Pithamaha Bhishma and the great warrior Karna? Answer me, Lady! I would really like to know the answer. Are you sure you can hold the pressure in the battle field, Lady!?”

          Uluka turned towards Nakula and Sahadeva while Arjuna was trying to hold his fury and said, "Duryodhana says to you both-” Nakula and Sahadeva! Oh, the darlings of the Pandavas! I believe you both would have realized by now that you both belong only in the stable and cowsheds and not in the battle filed. I would really like to employ you both, the talented and authentic workers in my stable and cowshed, But, I am sorry, for I will be killing you both in the war. It really hurts me to lose such great labors for my country.”

          Uluka hesitated to continue and starred at Krishna with questions filled in his eyes. Sheer moment of silence persisted in the tent. Krishna sensed Uluka’s fear and spoke with a friendly smile on his lotus lips, “Uluka, Duryodhana has sent message for me too, right? Do tell me, he didn’t forget me. I am eager to listen to it. Do convey it fast before I lose my patience.”

  

  Bracing himself, Uluka said, “Duryodhana said-“That illusionist Krishna will be seated there, right! You illusionist Krishna, I am not afraid of your tricks and magic. I am not like one of your cows in Vrindhavan to follow you blindly.  I remember your performance-that entertaining universal form which you exhibited while you were in Hastinapur for peace talks. That was much entertaining. Let’s meet in the battle field. Come in that mystical form and let’s see what difference it will make. Oh! Sorry…I forgot that you will be only controlling the horses in Arjuna’s chariot! You won’t be holding weapons, right! Poor Krishna, after all those illusions and enactments all you get to do is only control the horses. Awww…You are just an escape artist. Just like how you were while stealing butter. Teach some of your moves to those Pandavas. It might be useful for them when they try to run away from the battle field, unable to stand against my terrifying army. I know you and your powers. I, Duryodhana, standing on my simple chariot and holding my most powerful mace, challenge you and Arjuna who have the Gandiva bow and the blessing of limitless quivers and the most powerful chariot given by Lord Agni.  See, now you all will know who is more powerful. You all come to fight with me getting support from the Lord and devas. Doesn’t that say that you all are afraid of me! I still could face thousands of Krishnas and Arjunas and yet will be able to make you people abscond from the battle field.”

Uluka saw Krishna wondering what is running inside Krishna’s head who was listening calmly, without any expression on his face. Uluka turned towards Yudhistra and bowed at him, "That’s the message Duryodhana wanted me to convey to you all. I swear none of those came from my heart.”

 Uluka finished conveying Duryodhana’s message to all. He sensed that everyone were speechless out of rage. The air inside the tent was intense with silence and wrath waiting for the hot explosions. Uluka was sure that this will be his last night on earth. Uluka spun his dreaded eyes on everyone with his head still bowed and noticed Krishna smiling at him while everyone else where fleeting shafts of fury on him.

Sensing Uluka’s fear from his looks, Krishna grinned and said, "Uluka, Go back to Duryodhana and tell him that we got his message and the connotation. Let it be as he has thought and referred. The battle will begin tomorrow and let’s meet in the battle field tomorrow morning.”

Enraged already on the abusive words from Duryodhana, Bhīma’s eyes turned red out of anger and listening to Krishna’s simple response, Bhīma delivered an angry look on Krishna, “That’s it!? Is that all you want to convey to that heartless creature!?” Bhīma turned towards Uluka and roared, "Say this to that callous creature. “You fool, Duryodhana! I remember every single word of my vow. You have pushed your fate to this situation which is not only going to kill you but also your brothers. Be prepared from tomorrow to see your brothers being grounded in the battle field in my very arms that’s going to kill you too. Be prepared to see the death of your beloved Duchadhana while I drink his blood, right in front of your eyes before I grind him and stab him to death. Even before those images will vanish from your mind, I will kill you. I am going to be your worst nightmare from today. To you and to your brothers. I swear by my soul that the death of you and your brothers, your sons, nephews, cousins and kings who support you is near.””

Bhīma came back to his seat relieving Uluka from his fear of being killed by Bhīma. Sahadeva rose from his seat and spoke to Uluka, “Uluka, I have a message for both Duryodhana and your father. Communicate to Duryodhana: "You dupe! You have invited death by yourself. Motivated by Uncle Saguni, you are thinking you can win this world. Remember that you were born only to destroy the life of your own brothers. And you will see it yourself when my brother Bhīma slays everyone, in front of your eyes”. Uluka, convey this to your Father, Saguni: “You fool! You are the one who is behind all this and the Kuru dynasty’s fate has come to this situation, all just because of your tainted heart and brain. You have always behaved with malicious intentions in your heart. Live to see how your plans are going to be the reason for the death of your sons and Duryodhana, till I kill you.”

Uluka sensed that Duryodhana’s message has really stirred what Duryodhana wished for. There was turmoil in the Pandavas’ tent and Uluka started to pray for his time to run back to the Kauravas.

Arjuna stood up and calmed the roar of the kings and looked up at Uluka. “Uluka, convey my message to Duryodhana. “Duryodhana, tomorrow in the battle field you will have my reply delivered through my Gandiva. Do you consider yourself as a Kshatriya? A real Kshatriya fights with his enemies using his strength and not using words. Only eunuchs will do that. You are a coward. A weakling who lives happy life thinking he is powerful. Remember that the life you live now is on the shadow of the mighty strength of Pithamaha Bhishma, Dronacharya and your father’s love. You hide yourself behind all these old man and call yourself as mighty warrior!? Remember, the Sons of Pandu will live by their words. We will do what we have sworn. So, be ready to die.”

Yudhistra who was sitting silent said in a firm voice, “Convey my message to Duryodhana and his brothers. “Duryodhana, I got your message. You have judged me wrongly. I don’t desire even ants and worms. I do not have any desire to rule Hastinapur or to hurt your father’s feelings and your wish. That’s why I agreed for five villages. To avoid this war. You are conquered by lust. You were not ready to take the advices of Uncle Vidhura, Pithamaha, Sanjaya, your father and even Krishna’s. Even Bhīma was ready for  peace, ignoring his vows. But you were never ready to listen with your inadequate understanding. So, remember that it’s only because of you this war is going to happen. A war, to show you that envy and thirst to power will take you nowhere. You have taken the path of evil, my brother. You challenge us to war only based on others’ expertise. There’s still time for you to think but I know you won’t do the rethinking part. So, don’t roar so much.”

Uluka was taken aback listening to Yudhistra’s words. Even the silent Yudhistra has spoken what’s in his heart. Clearly, the message of Duryodhana has kindled the Pandavas like bush fire. Now, Uluka was intensely fretful. He felt the restlessness in the tent. Uluka bowed before Yudhistra and prepared to leave before the Pandavas or anyone in the tent start their flaming message.

Krishna said in an unruffled tone, “Uluka, Go back safely. While you convey the messages from here, add mine too: “Duryodhana, I know that you have sent such a message to me because I have sworn I won’t fight. Remember that I have taken Yudhistra’s words into consideration. That this war is among you brothers and so they have to avenge and pay you back and not me. Else, for what you have done to Draupathi, I would have burnt you and your brothers into ashes on that very day itself. But, I swear to you Duryodhana, awake or asleep, you will hear my voice throbbing you, till death. Neither of the Pandu sons is afraid of you. And same is with the army here. So be prepared to face the vows of Bhīma and Arjuna in the battle field.”

Bhīma mangled his hands, breathed heavily and rose from his seat. Not able to suppress his rage, he spoke harshly, “Add this too, Uluka. “Duryodhana, I confront you sinful creature. You and your brothers should have remained in Hastinapur itself. You all made a mistake coming here. Know me as the death of Dhritarashtra’s sons. It’s going to be a long night for me for I have to wait till the morning to meet you all and kill you people.”"

As soon as Bhīma has finished, Arjuna rose. Not satisfied in his abrupt response to Duryodhana, he spoke again, “Tell this too, Uluka. "Oh Duryodhana, I know why you have made Pithamaha Bhisma as the commander in chief, you sinful soul. You think we will never attack him or Dronacharya? Although I worship my Guru and my Grandfather more than my life, they are on your side. You are the one in their head. They act and fight only because of you. Such a possessed wisdom and knowledge all are gone waste just because you are taking control of their senses. And for that, Bhīma is going to kill you. And I will kill Pithamaha for taking your side. They chose death by being with you and they knew it. So don’t have any hopes and dreams of killing us or ruling the world.”"

Uluka sensed that Arjuna has finished his message. He bowed to the people assembled and started to leave the tent with a ray of hope and happiness inside him. Even before he could cross everyone, Dhrishtadyumna rose from his seat with his voice echoing the tent, “Uluka, Take my message too to your Prince." Uluka’s ray of hope dimmed and he stood frozen wondering what message it is going to be. Dhrishtadyumna continued when Uluka turned towards him with eyes of fear, “Tell Duryodhana that I was born to kill Dronacharya. There’s no hope for Dronacharya to survive till the end of the war and so there’s no hope for the Kauravas to win too. Duryodhana’s followers will be killed by me. Tell him to lose the talk and dreams. Ask him to come and fight like a Kshatriya.”

Uluka turned his fear soaked eyes towards Yudhistra. Yudhistra nodded his head in an accepting way. Uluka bowed and with his palms folded, he rushed towards the entrance of the tent walking backwards. He ran over to his chariot and leapt aboard, urging his horses back to the Kauravas camp. Yudhistra discussed with Dhrishtadyumna, the commander in chief of the Pandavas and began to move his army into position.

 Night has fallen and with the fierce responses from the Pandavas camp, Uluka went back to Kauravas’ camp. He was able to hear Duryodhana and Duchadhana still mocking the Pandavas and laughing hysterically.  Uluka entered into Duryodhana’s tent. He flicked through the tent and realized that the Kauravas were all celebrating and having fun. Duryodhana and Duchadhana were drunk and were teasing the Pandavas. “Uluka, I was waiting for you all this time. Come, come. Come fast and tell me how those witty brothers of mine responded to my message. How was their face on listening to message? Afraid, scared to death, terrorized! I believe Bhīma would have shouted out of anger, like a dog barking at the one who throws stones on it. Uluka delivered the messages of the Pandavas, Krishna and Dhrishtadyumna. Duryodhana laughed riotously listening to Uluka’s words and said in a mocking way, “Oh! They think they are brave and not terrified! Poor brothers!!! Trying to scare me with their rage filled words! They are afraid. They know that their army will not last more than a day. Not especially against our great Pithamaha Bhishma.  I don’t need anyone else when I have Pithamaha Bhisma, my beloved friend Karna and Dronacharya. Not to exclude the one who cannot be killed- my dear Aswathama.”

Karna who was present in the tent spoke in a firm voice, “That’s true Duryodhana. But you should not be taking them so easily. I won’t be in the battle field. And I don’t think Pithamaha Bhishma will have the inner strength to kill Arjuna or the other Pandavas. So, Arjuna has got a lead there. You should be aware of that.”

Duryodhana who was fully drunk said in a hysterical voice, “Ha Ha Ha… Arjuna!? Against Pithamaha!?  Arjuna will speak bravely. He will also act bravely. He will be valiant, courageous, bold and fearless. All until he sees Pithamaha. His heart will wobble when he sees Pithamaha. Not out of fear but out of respect! I know him. I have seen him for ages. Just wait and see tomorrow. The Arjuna who spoke boldly and vowed that he will kill Pithamaha Bhishma will hardly dare to raise an arrow against his grandfather when he sees him in the battle field.”

Duryodhana was full of confident that he will win the war and that he will get to kill the Pandavas even if Bhisma and Dronacharya failed to do. He assembled the council and discussed with Dronacharya, Saguni, Duchadhana, Aswathama and Pithamaha Bhishma, the commander in chief about organizing the Kauravas army in the attack genre and not in defense genre. With the sunrise, begins the war and Duryodhana was so full of hope waiting to destroy the Pandavas, forever, this time.

Kings in Kurukshetra!

    The Kurukshetra war, though it was a fight for throne between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, the allies, trusty kings and friends did participate in the war. Duryodhana took all the lower kingdoms and his allies under his army and so the Pandavas were left with less choice. The mother of all battles made sure that no one can remain neutral. But still, there were also kingdoms which played neutral side in the war.

    

Vidarbha

         The Kingdom of Vidarbha, with its King Rukmi remained neutral in the war. King Rukmi, brother-in-law of Krishna wanted to join the war. Rukmi was rejected in the Pandavas camp by Arjuna as he was not able to tolerate Rukmi’s self-boasting speech and insulting Dronacharya, Bheeshma and about the Kuru dynasty. In the Kauravas camp, Rukmi self-boasted saying that he is the mightiest warrior ever to lead the Kauravas to victory. Duryodhana too rejected Rukmi saying that he himself is a great warrior than Rukmi and he have Bhisma, Dronacharya and Karna by his side and so he doesn’t need Rukmi.

Udupi

         The Udupi King was the only one King who remained neutral on the acceptance from both the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Though it was like the whole of Bharat is supposed to participate in war, The Udupi King was not ready to fight for any side. But he did participate in the Kurukshetra war - as a cook.

        When the King was called by Krishna for talks, the King said, “Krishna, I don’t find any use in participating in this war. It’s not going to bring any change in the lives of the people of my Kingdom other than making it worse. But since, as I cannot avoid the war, kindly allow us to be the cook. My people will cook and serve food for all the soldiers and everyone in the battle field. Someone has to prepare food for the ones who have gathered in greater number. Kindly allow me and my people to do the favor of providing food.”

         “Fine... Someone has to cook. Let it be you!”-Krishna too agreed to the words of King of Udupi.

Cooking camp in Kurukshetra

          Though it sounds easy to cook for millions gathered to battle, it was not easy to prepare food without going waste. But amazingly every day, the food was well quantified for everyone. The food was never cooked in surplus or inadequate. The battle held for 18 days and thousands and thousands of people died each day.  Each day it was never the same quantity of food needed to be prepared. But King Udupi carried out the catering services exquisitely that not a single day it was surplus or scarce. Everyone were admired and astounded at the catering of King Udupi.

        The Pandavas went to the King and asked-“How is it you are able to cook the exact quantity daily? By the time your people go and take count of soldiers in the battlefield and return, the death counts would have increased. None knows how many will die each day. But how is it that you are able to cook and serve for the exact number of soldiers?”

    King Udupi smiled and replied-“Every night, after having dinner, Krishna likes to have a bowl full of boiled peanuts. So, I peel the peanuts, count how many are there and place the bowl in his tent. After he has done eating, the bowl will come back to my tent. I count how many he has eaten. If he has eaten ten peanuts, it means 10,000 will die tomorrow. So the quantity of food to be prepared next day will be for 10,000 people less. Every day I count the peanuts and prepare as per the calculation. And never it has gone wrong and hence there’s no wastage of food too!”

Balram, King of Dwaraka

Balram

    Balram, Krishna’s elder brother too remained neutral in the Kurukshetra war. He said that he won’t participate in the war because the fault was on both the sides and also, he has trained both Bhīma and Duryodhana. Since both the Pandavas and the Kauravas are his relatives, he made sure that he’ll stay out of this war.

      He and Krishna also advised and insisted that other than Satyaki and Kritavarman other Yadava Athirathas and Maharathas should not participate in the war. They were also restrained from entering Kurukshetra. 

Vidhura

         Vidhura, the younger brother of King Drithirashtra and Pandu, did not participate in the war. Though he had the Vishnu Dhanush and is also considered as the best battle strategist, he vowed to not participate in the war and battle with Duryodhana and also broke the Vishnu Dhanush as a result of tricks played by Krishna.

Magadha

         After the death of Jarasandha, his grandsons split the kingdom of Magadha. So, most of the Magadhas fought for the Kauravas while only a few joined the Pandavas.

Kalingas

The Kalingas formed the sea shore of Orissa and Andhra region up to river Godavari of current Indian political map. Prince of Hastinapur, Duryodhana’s wife was from Kalinga. The Kalingas sided with the Kauravas in the war. Kalinga’s mighty King Srutayudha or Srutayush was one of the generals in the Kauravas army. After his death, Kalinga forces were led by another Kalinga ruler. The entire Kalinga army was wiped out from the face of the Kurukshetra war by Bhīma. All the kings and mighty heroes of the Kalingas were killed by Bhīma while they were trying to protect Dronacharya from Bhīma.

Kauravas’ army general and King Srutayudha of Kalinga with his army and the Nishada army surrounded Bhīma when he was attacking Dronacharya. The Chedis who came to rescue Bhīma turned their backs unable to handle the fierce battling techniques of the Kalingas. Bhīma encountered the forces with his single mace by standing on his chariot whose stallions were slayed.  The battle was ferocious and brutal. Bhīma threw his iron mace at Sakradeva, son of King Srutayudha and killed him.  Bhīma assassinated many princes and sons of the rulers of Kalinga by standing on a grounded chariot. He killed Bhanumat, the prince of Kalinga by ascending the back of Bhanumat’s elephant and cutting his body with sword. Bhīma then encountered King Srutayudha and after a long battle, he killed him by shooting seven iron arrows using his bow. Bhīma also assassinated Satyadeva and Satya, the defenders of King Srutayudha. Srutayudha’s brothers Kalinga and Vrishaka too were exterminated by Bhīma.

Chedi

         Chedi Kingdom was ruled by the Paurava Kings. It covers the regions of Madhya Pradesh that lies to the south of river Yamuna and along the river Vetravati of current Indian political map. Chedi Kingdom was ruled with Suktimati as the capital. Chedi was ruled by King Sisubala, an ally to Duryodhana. Krishna was King Sisubala’s uncle’s (Prince Vasudev) son. King Sisubala was killed by Krishna during Indraprastha’s Rajasuya Yaga. After the death of Sisubala, Dhrishtaketu the elder son of King Sisubala became the King of Chedi. Karenumati, Princess of Chedi was married to Prince Nakula of the Pandavas and they had a son named Narimitra. King Dhrishtaketu of Chedi Kingdom accompanied by an Akshauhini, fought for the Pandavas. Dhrishtaketu was the army general for his Akshauhini with a Maharatha in the army of Pandavas. His talents and battling techniques and the way he commanded the forces under him was highly appreciated by Pithamaha Bhisma. He led the armies of the Chedis, the Kasis and the Karushas.

         Other prominent Chedi Kings who joined the Pandavas’ army were King Damaghosha, King Suvahu, King Uparichara Vasu and his sons and King Sahaja.

Dhrishtaketu was slayed by Dronacharya. Dronacharya also killed the sons of Dhrishtaketu and his younger brother Suketu, a prince of Chedi. Another prince of Chedi was killed by Aswathama.

Kamboja

       Also called as Kamedia, the Kamboja army fought for the Kauravas. The kingdom shared its boundaries with Gandhara. The king of Kamboja, Sudakshina was also a Maharatha in the Kauravas army. The Kamboja rulers were the descendants of Rishi Kondilya. Karna during his Digvijaya conquered Kamboja and so, Sudakshina was under Duryodhana’s territory. Sudakshina was a noble King who felt mortified to fight for Duryodhana. King Sudakshina died at the hands of Arjuna on the 14^th day of war.  In spite of knowing that the Pandavas had dharma on their side, he fought for Duryodhana.

Gandhara

         Led by King Saguni, Dhritarashtra’s wife Gandhari is from Gandhara. Gandhari is King Saguni’s younger sister. Gandhara Kingdom was the key ally in the war for the Kauravas. Gandhara is the old kingdom of Peshawar and the Persian inscriptions say that Gandhara included Afghanistan too. King Saguni spent most of his life in the courts of Hastinapur than in Gandhara. It was King Saguni’s words and tactics that led the Kauravas to fight against the Pandavas. The destiny of Hastinapur, especially the destiny of Duryodhana was more decided and guided by King Saguni. He was the mastermind behind the Kurukshetra war. Saguni had two sons named Uluka and Vrikasur. Saguni vowed to avenge Pithamaha Bhisma, by destroying his clan and Hastinapur for Bhisma insisted on Gandhari’s marriage to blind man Dhritarashtra.

Pragjyotisha

Krishna taking King Bhagadatta's Vaishnavastra 

         Pragjyotisha Kingdom, also named as Kamapura Kingdom hails from Assam in current political map of India. It was accompanied by the Mlechcha tribe. The Kingdom was ruled by King Bhagadatta, the foremost warrior in his period skilled in fighting from the elephant. He fought on the side of the Kauravas. Predominant elephant warriors of the Kauravas’ army were King Bhagadatta’s elephant warriors. He fired Vaishnavastra on Arjuna but Krishna saved Arjuna by taking the weapon on his chest which turned into a garland. 

Pandyas

         The Pandyas from the south fought alongside with the Pandavas. Pandya King Darshak’s warrior skills were appreciated while opposing the Kaurava army fearlessly. The Pandya kings packed with heroic energy, skills in weapons and talents were the foremost warriors of the Pandavas side.

Pandya King Sarangadhwaja fought against Aswathama. His main opponent was Aswathama and Bhisma rated the King’s battling talents as a great Ratha, referring highest grade in chariot warriors. King Sarangadhwaja destroyed the army of Aswathama with different battling tactics and shafts. His shafts even pierced the skin of the elephants. He slayed the enemies using his sharp pointy arrows and his diversified knowledge in weapon usage slewed most of the soldiers who were trying to stop him. He was killed by Aswathama.

OTHER TRIBES AND KINGS

         The smaller kingdoms and tribes accompanied Duryodhana and his army. The smaller Kingdoms include:

§  Anga Kingdom (Led by Karna) - Includes Anga, Vanga, Suhma, Kalinga and Pundra.

§  Andhaka (led by Kritavarma) – A branch of the Yadava alliance.

§  Andhra – Also called as Dasyus. (Associated with Pulinda, Khasa and Nishada army)

§  Abhisara – territory in the hill states of Rajapuri. (Most of them joined the Kauravas)

§  Ambastha – Also referred as Ambastai (from lower Chenab, Punjab).

§  Avanti (From Western Malwa).

§  Aśvātaka.

§  Ajāneya – Part of Gandhara Kingdom.

§  Abhīra (Hailed from Punjab and Mathura region)

§  Aratta (Part of Kritavarman’s tribe)

§  Arevaka (From Baluchistan)

§Karṇaprāvaraṇa (A Vindhya tribe, paid tribute to the Pandavas)

§  Kitava (Led by King Uluka, Son of Saguni) – Ancient Makran tribe. (Paid tribute to the Pandavas)

§  Kukura - Branch of Yadava confederacy.

§  Kasapaundras

§  Kuntala (Southern Kuntalas fought for Kauravas)

§  Kuluta

§  Kosala – A Solar Dynasty, led by King Brahadvala. (Ramayan era tribe)

§  Kaṣudraka

§  Karashakas

§  Mahishakas

§  Keralas

§  Karkotakas

§  Virakas

§  Mālava

§  Khaśa ( tribe in Nepal and southwest Kashmir)

§  Govāsana (Paid tribute to the Pandavas)

§ Chichchhila(Joint army with the army of Mekala and Traipura)

§  Chīnā (North-western tribe linked with the Kiratas.)

§  Cūcupa

§  Tuṣāra

§  Tuṇḍikera (From parts of Madhya Pradesh)

§  Trigata

§  Darvīka

§  Dasameya

§  Narayaia (nārāyaṇa) – Also called as the Gopala, the cowherd tribe, personal army of Sri Krishna. Warriors from Anarta.

§  Pañcanada

§  Pahlava

§  Pāṇibhadraka

§  Pārada (from west of river Indus)

§  Pulinda (A Vindhya tribe)

§  Prasthala (Branch of Trigarta tribe)

§  Bhoja - Descendants of Yayati's son Druhyu

§  Māhiṣmatī (Ruled by King Nila)

§  Muṇḍa

§  Mekala

§  Naimishas

§  Lalittha

§  Vaṅga (Paid tribute to the Pandavas)

§  Vanāyu – Special force under General King Saguni. (Hailed from the Wana valley, Pakistan)

§  Vasāti (Tribe from Baluchistan)

§  Vāṭadhāna (from Varana near Kurukshetra)

§  Vikarṇa

§  Vikuñja

§  Veṇika

§  Sālva

§  Sūrā

§  Sūrasena

§  Samsthana

§  Siṃghala

§  Sindhu-suvīra (Led by Jayadratha) –Kingdom from Sindh

§  Surāṣṭra

§  Haṃsamārga

     

    The Kingdoms and tribes who fought for the Pandavas are:

§  The Chedis.

§  The Yadavas.

§  The Kasayas.

§  The Matsyas.

§  The Srinjayas.

§  The Kasis.

§  The Kuntalas. (North)

§  The Panchalas.

§  The Abhisaras (few joined the Pandavas)

§  The Kekayas.

§  The Pandyas.

§  The Karushas.

§  The Pauravas.

§  The Kurushas.

§  The Kosalas.

§  The Kaikeyas.

§  The Somakas.

§  The Prabhadrakas.