Karna's Realization [Old Version]

31. Draupadi's Svayamvara

Four months had elapsed since the profound encounter with Maharishi Ved Vyasa. The Pandavas had settled on the outskirts of the bustling city of Kampilya.

Yudhishthira had assumed his duties as a priest, while Devika devotedly cared for Yudhya and Hidimba, who was now two months pregnant with Bhim's second child.

Nakula and Sahadeva diligently worked in the stables, tending to the horses and cows. Bhima and Arjuna took charge of the security, ensuring the safety of their place of residence. Kunti, on the other hand, immersed herself in prayer, her thoughts consumed by the absence of Karna. Devika, noticing Kunti's longing, softly said, "We owe our lives to Angaraj Karna, Mother." Kunti nodded, suppressing her emotions, and initiated a new conversation.

One day, they heard news about Draupadi's upcoming swayamvar, scheduled to take place in just one month. The decision was unanimous—they would all attend the svayamvara.

***

At Hastinapur, the royal court was in full swing when a soldier burst in and announced, "A messenger has arrived from Panchal!"

The room fell into an air of skepticism, except for Karna, who had gathered intelligence through his vast spy network and knew the purpose of the messenger's arrival.

Shortly after, the messenger entered and addressed Maharaj Dhritarashtra, saying, "Pranipaat, Your Majesty. I am here to extend an invitation to all the Kuru princes for the svayamvara of our princess, Draupadi."

"Are you referring to Yagyaseni Draupadi, the one born from fire?" Shakuni inquired.

"Yes, Gandhar Raj," replied the messenger.

"The invitation also includes Angaraj and Maharaj Shon," the messenger added.

"I will not attend the svayamvara, as I am already married. I decline your invitation," Karna asserted in a commanding voice.

"The same applies to me," Shon added.

"But Angaraj, you should go," Shakuni interjected.

"Why should I? And who are you to offer me advice? I haven't sought any counsel from you, Gandhar Raj. Do not interfere in my personal matters. I warn you," Karna warned sternly, rendering Shakuni speechless. He lacked the courage to confront Karna directly.

The messenger acknowledged Karna's decision and said, "It's alright, Angraj and Maharaj Shon. We accept your refusal, as Lord Vasudev Krishna had already informed us that neither of you would attend the svayamvara due to your existing marriages. Emperor Prithvi has also declined the invitation for the same reason. So, Maharaj, I await your decision," the messenger concluded.

"All the 101 princes will be present at the svayamvara of Rajkumari Draupadi," Dhritarashtra declared before anyone could object. He desired Draupadi to be wedded to one of his sons and sought Panchal's support for Duryodhana.