Karna's Realization [Old Version]

26. Merriment

The sun rose over Hastinapur, casting a warm golden glow on the city. The grand court was abuzz with activity as council members and royal dignitaries gathered, eager to begin the day's proceedings. However, there was one notable absence - Shakuni.

Karna, the head of the council of ministers and a powerful king, took his seat on the throne. Beside him sat his brother, Shon, who had earned a special place in the council for his expertise in politics and weaponry.

Duryodhana and Yudhishthira occupied the thrones of yuvraj, their faces beaming with satisfaction. Both had honed their skills and become capable and efficient heirs. Together, they brainstormed and resolved matters pertaining to internal and external affairs. Karna had suggested they disguise themselves and venture outside the palace to gauge the political climate and the condition of the people.

Arjuna and Dushasana, seated beside Bhishma, were responsible for matters concerning arms and weaponry. They provided answers to Bhishma and Dhritarashtra, assisting in decision-making.

Nakula, Sahadeva, Vikarna, and Yuyutsu occupied their thrones, adjacent to Vidur's. The thrones of Bhishma, Vidur, Karna, Yudhishthira, and Duryodhana were all placed at the same level, signifying their equal importance.

Madirakshi, Bhanumati, Amrita, Meenakshi, and Devika represented the women's committee and held significant roles in the Rajya Sabha. Gandhari, Kunti, and Dushala sat together in the women's balcony.

The court proceedings commenced, delving into various topics such as security, revenue, kingdom management, and the establishment of rules and regulations. They also held a public court session to dispense justice to the common people of Hastinapur, which concluded within an hour.

Suddenly, a peculiar voice echoed through the court, catching everyone's attention. It was Shakuni, dressed in women's attire and carrying a basket filled with vegetables and meat.

He entered the court, ready to perform a comedic act orchestrated by Karna, his mastermind.

Shakuni stood in the middle of the sabha and exclaimed, "Fresh and affordable vegetables for just a few cents!"

Laughter erupted among the courtiers. Bhishma and Vidur struggled to contain their amusement. Duryodhana and the other Kauravas were initially puzzled but soon joined in the laughter, entertained by their uncle's antics. The Pandavas, too, burst into laughter, and even Dhritarashtra, Gandhari, and Kunti found themselves thoroughly enjoying the spectacle.

Madirakshi and the other women relished Shakuni's performance, recalling the spell her husband had cast on him. She remembered that moment vividly:

"Shakuni shall forget all his duties and become a vegetable vendor who will entertain with antics and dance to a women's song."

As Madirakshi watched the drama unfold, she couldn't help but be amused by the hilarious transformation of her husband.

"Prince Bhima, you have the appetite of a food connoisseur, much like my foolish husband Shakuni. Please take a look at my fresh vegetables and meat, the finest in the world," Shakuni proclaimed, cheekily putting his thumb in his mouth.