Karna's Realization [Old Version]

38. Predicament

Yudhishthira's elation knew no bounds as he effortlessly and seamlessly gained the support of Hastinapur, encountering no obstacles along the way.

After a two-day journey, he returned to Indraprastha and commanded his brothers to commence preparations for the grandiose Rajsuya Yagya. Assuming responsibility for the east, Bhima excluded Ayodhya and Anga from his dominion, handling minor affairs in the Āryāvrata region. Nakula ventured towards the west, while Sahadeva set his sights on the southern territories of Āryāvrata. Arjuna, on the other hand, chose to embark on a northern trajectory. The women, too, eagerly prepared for the forthcoming Rajsuya Yagya.

The following day, Bhima embarked on his journey to the east. In due course, Nakula delivered a missive from Karna and Prithvi, stating, "Jyesht, Anga, and Ayodhya have declined our invitation to participate in the Rajsuya Yagya. What shall we do?"

"First and foremost, we must conquer the entirety of Āryāvrata before addressing this matter. Do not waste your time on this arduous affair, for both parties are known for their shrewd negotiation tactics. I shall personally visit Anga and Ayodhya to convey your perspective. Fear not, they shall be made aware of your stance, but it will undoubtedly prove to be an arduous task for me as well," Shri Krishna uttered with an impassive countenance.

"Very well, Vasudev. Anujo, now go and fulfill the dream our father cherished," Yudhishthira responded. Subsequently, the Pandavas set forth on their campaign.

As per the decree of the eldest Pandava, Yudhishthira, Sahadeva embarked on a southward path. His selection for this direction was based on his exceptional swordsmanship skills and Bhishma's belief that Southerners possessed remarkable prowess in the art of swordplay. Sahadeva's conquests in the south included numerous kingdoms, such as Surasenas, the Pandyan Dynasty, Matsya, King Dantavakra, kings Sukumara, Sumitra, and other Matsyas and Patacharas.

Additionally, Sahadeva encountered the descendants of Vibhishana, the king of Lanka and Ravana's brother, who presented him with a cornucopia of precious jewels, gemstones, fragrant sandalwood, celestial adornments, exquisite attire, and valuable pearls.

In Kishkindha, the monkey kings Mainda and Dwivida engaged in a seven-day war and met defeat. Sahadeva also triumphed over the city of Mahishmati, ruled by King Nila. The kingdom, bestowed with the blessings of Agni, initially thwarted Sahadeva's invasion with a formidable conflagration. However, through prayer to Agni, Sahadeva overcame the obstacle and successfully completed the conquest.

King Rukmi of Vidarbha, the territories of Bhojakata, the Nishadas, the Gosringa hill, and King Sreenimath were all subdued by Sahadeva. He further claimed victories over Navarashtra under King Kunti-Bhoja, King Jamvaka on the banks of the river Charmanwati, kingdoms situated along the Venwa River, and those along the Narmada River. Avanti, with kings named Vinda and Anuvinda, a town in Bhojakata, the King of Kosala, the King of Tripura, the King of Saurashtra, the Surparaka kingdom, Talakatas, and Dandakas also succumbed to Sahadeva's indomitable spirit.