Episode 20……
A transformed Duryodhana.
It was a
precarious situation. Almost all the ministers of his court were gone.
Helpless, Dhritarashtra called a common family meeting of Pandavas and
Karuavas. In addition, Krishna, Balarama, Kripacharya were also invited.
Incidentally, Ashwattaama was asked to stay away from the meeting. An effort to
locate Vidhura failed.
Duryodhana’s
proposal along with the opinions of women members was discussed threadbare.
Duryodhana felt the absence of Shakuni mama much.
All the ninety-nine
Kauravi widows had held a discussion with Duryodhana, under the leadership of
Bhanumati, prior to the meeting. They had appreciated the courageous way he had
ruled Hastinapur for fourteen years, and that he was brave enough to face the tricks
and trades of none other than Krishna. Bhanumati had opined that Duryodhana
should now denounce everything and lead a peaceful life.
For the first
time, a semblance of transformation was observed in him. He did not evince
interest in the proceedings. He had decided to simply obey his parents. His
only priority was to have Karna as the King as a matter of solace, depriving
Yudhistira of the crown.
Dhritarashtra
sought the opinion of those present about making Karna the king of Hastinapur,
Indraprastha be handed over to Duryodhana and that Pandava’s will move to
Hastinapur. Bhanumati’s suggestion of appointing a Queen, instead of a King
this time, found little support.
Draupadi vehemently opposed handing over her dear Indraprashta
to Duryodhana. Bhima in a raising voice declared that Duryodhana, either go on
exile out of the bounds or get ready to fight him in mace. He should attenuate
all the wrong deeds done so far. Bhima also demanded that Ashwattaama be
subjected to torture leading to slow death for the killings of Pandava
siblings.
Now Karna, the King to be, was asked to
give his opinion. Karna spoke to Duryodhana. Duryodhana, analysing the
precarious condition that he is in now, made it clear that he is no more
ambitious of worthily pleasures as he was instrumental in the death of his
brave brothers. He went to Draupadi and apologised for all that happened and
that he is prepared to undergo any kind of punishment she deems fit. This
magnanimity shook all gathered. There was a pin drop silence. Draupadi was left
spellbound, and not knowing what to do, she apologised him. Bhima unable to come
to terms just fumed. Kunti pressed his shoulders to calm down.
Krishna cautioned that two kingdoms
like, Hastinapur and Indraprastha may again cause tensions and escalate the situation with Duryodhana still around.
Dhritarashtra then gave his final
verdict.
To be continued in next episode 21….
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