Karna's Realization [Old Version]

20. First Step

Karna, now the emperor of Prithvi, controlled the entire Middle Āryāvrata and the eastern region as well. He annexed Vanga to unite the people of the east under the banner of nation, freedom, and peace. The liberal policies of Karna endeared him to the people, who saw him as a catalyst for modernization.

Sahadeva, the son of Jarasandha, became a loyal servant of Karna and found happiness by marrying the woman he loved, a commoner. He admired Karna for saving him from his cruel father's clutches, seeing him as a god-like figure. Sahadeva started his new role as the governor of Magadha and enjoyed it, with Karna even providing him a new house as a testament to his loyalty.

Karna had seized Jarasandha's wealth and distributed it among the commoners, effectively eradicating poverty in the eastern Āryāvrata. Beggars were no longer a sight to be seen in the region.

One day, Karna received an invitation from Bhishma to visit Hastinapur. Bhishma planned to announce the crown prince of Hastinapur and also invited the Dwarka family for a Holi celebration. Dhritarashtra and Vidur were diligently managing Hastinapur's affairs, focusing on its structure, laws, and justice system. The revolutionary changes brought by them were well-received by the people.

Karna's popularity soared in Hastinapur as people appreciated the positive changes he had brought to Āryāvrata. They admired his liberal thinking, and women especially blessed him for his support during their darkest days.

The Pandavas realized their mistake in underestimating Karna and were impressed by his progressive schemes that transformed the system they had disliked. They recognized Karna's significance in shaping the future of Hastinapur.

Karna, Madirakshi, and their children decided to visit Hastinapur, while Adhirath and Radha planned to stay at the royal palace of Anga. Karna, recognizing Sahadeva's loyalty, assigned his best men to protect the royal palace.

The children were ecstatic about the journey, jumping around with excitement. Now four years old, they were full of mischief, a characteristic Karna adored and enjoyed.

As they reached Hastinapur, people showed their respect to Karna by showering him with flowers and shouting, "Angraj ki Jay, Angrani ki Jay!" They proceeded to the Hastinapur palace, where their friends warmly welcomed them. Karna embraced his friends and commented, "It seems like you all are quite busy."

"Yes, indeed. We have been quite occupied lately," Dushasana replied teasingly.

"You defeated Jarasandha and annexed his entire kingdom. Jarasandha's sons are now your loyal servants. You are the most powerful king in the entire Āryāvrata, controlling the east," Duryodhana added.