The Fateful Evening part 2

Part 14

The mighty Bhagadutta of Magatha along with Mlecha tribes came with great fervour. He was once the friend of Pandu so he made it a point to meet Kunti and pay his regards. Your third son troubled me like no one did. Pandu would have felt immensely pleased on seeing his valour. His praises made Kunti feel proud because she knew even Pandu fought with him but could not defeat him ever. Bhagadutta's Elephant Supratika attracted the attention of citizens as well as Pandava children. Abhi and Iravan spent much time trying to go nearer and observe it thoroughly. Arjun warned them not to try to play with that as it is ferocious and revengeful.

Abhi asked curiously. But how did you fight with the king on that Elephant? Did your arrows hurt the Elephant? Arjun took his beloved son in his arms and explained. Yes. I did hurt the Elephant. But not fatally. I want to defeat them but not to kill them. Remember always. Unless it is too important for us we should not kill the opponents.

Iravan raised his doubts. But they may think to kill us Pitasri,How can we take risk? Arjun patted him with affection.When you are in the battlefield you will know it Iravan.Whether to kill the rival or not. Your instinct will guide you more than my teachings. ...

Indraprastha is flooded with guests of Higher ranks as well as common people who want to see the glory of Pandavas and Ofcourse the living God Krishna Vaasudeva.People touched his feet wherever he went and sought blessings for their children.King Virat of Matsya Kingdom came with his  sons Sankha and Uttara. His wife did not come as she is pregnant and expecting her baby. The Matsya king took pleasure in playing Chausar with Duryothan and others and sometimes with the Emperor.

Panchali and Satya are too busy as that day happened to be the Godh Bharai of Karenu. The inner apartments are decorated for the purpose with beautiful flowers. Nakul personally looked after Karenu's clothes and ornaments much to her displeasure. Sahadev criticised Nakul for his obsession for make up. Why don't you think of her convenience rather? Is it necessary to wear that many ornaments? He questioned.

But Nakul is adamant and struck to his choice. Panchali's Pragati won every one's hearts with her cuteness and smile. Like mother like daughter. The praises came from all quarters.

The Asirvad was done by the Brahmins under the leadership of Dhaumya. Kunti offered ornaments and nice silk clothes to Karenu. Gandhari blessed her and made Bhanumati offer gifts on behalf of Hastinapur. Arjun asked Krishna to predict daughter or son for Nakul.Krishna smiled and said. Son only. No daughters.

Arjun is miffed. Who will play with my Pragati then? Dhaumya sage says Alli will get two boys.Krishna teased him.Are you planning for another daughter with your beloved wife? Not possible Parth,Future will demand much from her.Dont put much pressure on my Sakhi now.

Arjun  looked confused. Again his Madhav is predicting the unpredictable. What will,happen to her? He just could not fathom and Krishna won't tell further. He came out of his thoughts and pressed Krishna's hand. Krishna smiled and assured. I repeat . She is my responsibility. Now let us move over otherwise we will be trapped by Satya.

The two friends walked away and reached the Yajnasala which will be the centre of action in the Coming days. Why should these sacrifices be done Madhav, Don't you see the envy on the faces of those kings and our cousins? Clearly they are not happy with our glory. I feel depressed.Arjun expressed his concern.

Krishna told him. Don't pay attention to other's feelings. Irrespective of the reaction an action should take place.it is the rule of Dharma. You do your bit don't bother about such things.

The night feast became the talk of the city. It was arranged in the royal garden with important royal guests attending it. It looked like the day with the lightening all,over.The recipes were too good and Balram praised Bheem and Panchali.My Sishya Duryothan also found them too good . He said.Bheem retorted. These days Duryothan started liking our food too much. I fear he may decide to stay back in Indraprasth.

Duryothan turned red and commented Ofcourse Indraprasth is colourful it lured my heart. Isn't it Jayathrath? He asked his friend and both of them looked at Panchali with lust.

Draupadi turned away from them and thought. How could Dussala lead her life with Jayathrath who is too disgusting.As every one dispersed Panchali stayed back to see the arrangements for next day . Bheem is tired and told her he will leave . Malini held Pragati who is still awake. Kirti refused to go to the chamber without his mother and slept on the asan there. Panchali finished her work and took Pragati from Malini.

Arjun came suddenly and lifted Kirti to his shoulders. As they started walking towards her chamber,Panchali lost her balance and she would have fallen with Pragati had he not supported her from behind. Arjun almost held her on his shoulder with the baby as Malini already went ahead to arrange the beds. When they reached inside,Malini took Pragati and placed her in the Jhoola . Kirti is murmuring in his sleep.No I won't go. Mata will come . Arjun placed him on the couch and turned to Draupadi. By this time the boys are used to be with Priyamvada Masi. Why you are pampering him too much? He asked. Panchali kept silent kissed Kirti on his forehead and standing on her toes kissed her husband on his curls . Arjun rounded her waist and smiled.Dont pamper us that much. It may cost you too much. His words are met with an inviting smile and passionate look from the most beautiful woman who rewarded him with a close hug.