Karna's Realization [Old Version]

8. Kala Pradarshan

A multitude of invitations, adorned with regal elegance, were dispatched to the illustrious Kingdoms of Āryāvrata. Bhishma and Vidur, bearing the weighty responsibility of overseeing the grand spectacle, known as the Kala pradarshan, had assumed their roles with utmost dedication. Within the resplendent palace, Kunti and Gandhari, their hearts brimming with exultation at the imminent reunion with their sons, adorned every nook and cranny in a jubilant display.

In the hallowed halls of Ayodhya's court, an invitation of utmost prestige, one that beckoned the newly-anointed emperor, Prithvi, and his empress, arrived. This document, symbolizing honor and recognition, was presented to Maharishi Vashistha and Karna (also known as Prithvi) during their routine visitation to the kingdom.

Anxiety gripped Karna as he turned to his revered mentor, inquiring with trepidation, "Lord, what course of action should we pursue?"

"In your stead, I shall embark on this journey alongside Madirakshi," proclaimed Maharishi Vashistha, his voice brimming with sagacity. Karna, acknowledging this wisdom, offered a nod of assent. Thus, Maharishi Vashistha proceeded to pen a letter addressed to his pupil, Bhishma.

The missive was entrusted to the envoy from Ayodhya, who promptly departed for Hastinapur upon perusing its contents. Upon reaching the opulent city, the envoy tendered the epistle to Bhishma, who proceeded to read its contents aloud.

Respected Shishya Bhishma,

The emperor and empress of Ayodhya, burdened with obligations in Ujjain, have beseeched the council of Ayodhya to appoint me as their envoy. The passage of time has separated us, rendering this encounter long overdue. Thus, I seize this opportunity to reunite with my esteemed disciple.

May divine blessings be upon you,

Your venerable teacher,

Vashistha

Shakuni, upon learning of Maharishi Vashistha's imminent arrival in Hastinapur, revealed a sinister display of his gnarled teeth. His machinations, intricately woven, were reluctantly cast aside, for he dared not incur the wrath of such a revered sage. Bhishma, conversely, rejoiced at the prospect of reuniting with his revered guru after a protracted absence. Gandhari and Kunti, their spirits uplifted by the presence of the esteemed sage in Hastinapur, delighted in the opportunity to offer their humble services to one of the saptarishis. Vidur, knowing that Shakuni's devious schemes would be hindered, found solace in this turn of events. Dhritarashtra, while outwardly composed, remained acutely aware of the eminent presence of these illustrious sages. Dronacharya, elated at the prospect of meeting the esteemed mentors of Shri Ram and Lakshman, reveled in a profound sense of satisfaction.