Salva attacks Dwaraka

Krishna said - Listen to me Yudhistira. When I came to your sacrifice, Shishupala died in my hands. Being a friend of Shishupala, Salva was angry. He attacked Dwaraka with along with his army. To avoid him, all the bridges coming towards Dwaraka were drawn up. The roads were laid with iron nails. The waters nearby were poisoned. All the wealth was hidden away.

When Salva came, the brave warriors of Dwaraka came out to fight. Salva had a general who came and fought with Sambha, son of Jambavati. The general could not withstand Sambha's weapons and had to flee. Pradyumna, son of Rukmini also fought bravely and killed many demons.

Seeing his army being destroyed, Salva came to the battlefield. Sambha came and fought with him. Pradyumna and Sambha bravely fought Salva and he fell senseless. When the demon came to his sense, he used to his magic and Sambha nad Pradyumna fainted. Seeing them faint, their charioteers took them and started fleeing. When Pradyumna came to his senses, he said fleeing was not the task of a brave warrior and commaned the charioteer to return back.

Pradyumna fought but was unable to control Salva. He then decided to use divine weapons on Salva, but the Gods intervened. They said these weapons would get wasted but Salva would not die. Salva was destined to die in the hands of Krishna. 

Krishna comes to meet the Pandavas

The news of Pandavas leaving for the forest spread like wildfire. Along with some other kings, Krishna went to the Kamyaka forest to meet the Pandavas.
Pandavas told all about the acts of Duryodhana and how they had to loose all.
Seeing Krishna angry hearing all this, Arjuna said to him - You are the Lord of all. You should not loose your temper. As sage Narayana you had sat for years meditating on the Gandhamadana mountain.

Krishna said to Arjuna - There is not much difference between us. When I was Narayana, you were Nara. Pandavas are no different from me, I am am grieved to see them troubled. Any one who likes you is dear to me, any one who hates you is my enemy too.

Draupadi then came there and said to Krishna - You are the one, from whose navel sprang the lotus on which Brahma was seated. The sky is your head, the nether world your feet. All Gods worship you. You are the lord of all and up-lifter of the down. This is why I can tell you about my griefs.

Saying this, Draupadi spoke of how she was insulted in the court and how the great leaders there had sat quietly

Krishna said - Do not grieve sister. When you were being insulted, you had called out to me. I had helped you. The way you cried, similarly, the wives of the Kurus will cry. This is my promise to you.

Arjuna said - What Krishna said will come true. There will be war. We will win.

Dhristadyumna said - I pledge that I will kill Drona. Shikhandi will become the cause of Bhishma's death.

Krishna said he was delayed in coming to the forest as he had to tackle the demon Salva. Krishna said when he had come for Rajyasuya sacrifice of Yudhistira, Salva had defeated all in Dwaraka using magic. Returning back, he had to fight and eventually kill Salva.

Yudhistira asked what was Salva's enemity with you? Why did he attack Dwaraka? Do tell, Krishna. 

Taking a break

Will be taking a few days break - Work pressures. Hopefully I will restart again, next week.

Pandavas meet Kirmira

Dhritarashtra, having heard of the death of Kirmira in hands of Bhima, when the Pandavas were in the forest, asked Vidura how this had happened. Duryodhana refused to listen to this, and walked away.
Vidura said, what Bhima did was not easy. When the Pandavas left this place, they reached the Kamya forest on the third day. In thsi forest lived the demon Kirmira. Seeing the Pandavas in the forest, the demon bocked their way. He created an illusion of night. So strong was his breath, that trees fell when he exhaled.
Seeing the demon, Draupadi closed her eyes and hid in the middle of her husbands. Bhima consoled her.
The priest, Dhumya, then reversed the magic of the demon. It was day and the Pandavas could see the demon.
Yudhistira asked the demon who he was.
The demon said he lived in the forest and all sages and men who passed by were his food. He then asked Yudhitira who he was.
Yudhistira said He was a son of Pandu and he was there with his brothers and wife.
Kirmira said I am glad you have come here. In Ekachakra lived my brother Baka who was killed by Bhima. Bhima also killed my fiend Hidimb. He will definitely die in my hands.

Angered by the words of the rakshasha, Bhima uprooted a tree and hurled that at Kirmira. Kirmira stood still. The demon then hurled a flaming piece of wood at Bhima, who avoided that. Thinking of the insults of the Kauravas, Bhima jumped and grabbed Kirmira. Throwing him on the ground, he sat on his back. Pressing his knee on the spine of the demon, Bhima pulled the body and broke it into two. With a huge roar, Kirmira died.  

Dhritarashtra and Vidura talk

Dhritarashtra was anxious about the Pandavas leaving. He sent for Vidura. He asked Vidura with teh Pandavas not there, how would he be able to take full control over the people of Indraprastha and Hastinapura.
Vidura said - Stay on the path of truth. Think of the sons of your brother as your own. You kept quiet when the Pandavas were insulted by your son and Shakuni. You were quiet when your daughter in law was insulted. Now you want to make ammends, What can be done? But if you are really wanting to do something, bring the Pandavas back. Give back to them, what has been taken from them. Tell them that you are sorry for what had happened. Get Duryodhana and Karna to have a friendly relation with the Pandavas. If Duryodhana refuses to listen to you, jail him.
Dhritarashtra said - I do not agree with what you said. Why should I punish my son for the sake of other's sons. You are a well wisher of the Pandavas. Go and live where you want to.
Vidura got and while leaving he said - I see the end of the dynasty of Kuru.

Instead of going home, Vidura went to the forest where the Pandavas were. Yudhistira was in the Kamya forest, clad in bark, along with his brothers. Seeing Vidura they wondered why he was coming. Was it for another game of dice? There was nothing to loose now except their lives, and was that something that was needed.

Yudhistira asked Vidura what the king had said. Vidura said he had tried to advise the king but he had been insulted. Thus, leaving the king, he had come to stay with the Pandavas.

Hearing that Vidura had left saddened the king. He was sorry for his words. He went to court but collapsed on the ground. Sanjaya and the others helped the king on his feet. The king said - Vidura has joined the Pandavas. Tell him to come to me at the earliest. Tell him I am sorry for what I had said.

Sanjaya started for the forest to fetch Vidura. Reaching there he said - O Vidura quickly. The king will not live if Vidura does not come.

Vidura and Sanjaya took leave of the Pandavas and reached Hastinapura. On meeting the king, Vidura and Dhritarashtra hugged each other.

Dhritarashtra said he was begging for forgiveness.
Vidura said - Sons of Pandu are the same at me, like your sons.

Hearing Vidura and Dhritarashtra talk, Duryodhana went to Shakuni and said a way had to be made to get rid of the Pandavas, if the king sent for them.

Shakuni said, the Pandavas would not come as Yudhitira would not go against his word. If he even comes back, he will go back again based on the promise, for another thirteen years.

Karna said - The Pandavas would be suffering in the forest. I want to see how they are. I want to see their suffering. They being vulnerable, this may be the right time to get rid of them for ever.

Duryodhana agreed and ordered for the army to get ready.

Vyasa was sitting in his meditation. He realized what was happening. He left for Hastinapura. There he met Duryodhana and his army, and told them to stop. The sage went and met Dhritarashtra.

He said - You are blind by eyes, and now you have lost sight of justice. What are you doing? Your son, in greed, grabbed what was belonging to the Pandavas. Send your son to the Pandavas and let him let them he is sorry for his behavior. Then your hundred sons will be saved.

Dhritarashtra said - The problem is, Duryodhana does not listen to me.
Vyasa said - Let me tell you something. Once, Surabhi, the mother of cows was crying. Seeing this, Indra asked her the reason. She said she was sad for a son of hers who was old, and was made to make in the fields. The farmers who were using him, were beating him, when he could not walk.
Indra said - he would have rain fall, which would cool the earth and make it easy to till.

Vyasa said, One has to be just to all.

Dhritarashtra said I am unable to talk to my son, if you can, please talk to him.
Vyasa said, I will not do that. The sage Maitreya will come and he will talk to Duryodhana. And if Duryodhana refuses to comply, he may get cursed.

Soon Maitreya came and said he had met the Pandavas who were suffering because of the conduct of Duryodhana.

Talking to Duryodhana, he said - Pandavas are no less superior than you and they deserve that respect. When Duryodhana refused to listen, Maitreya said - the thigh that you had shown Draupadi will be broken by Bhima.

The king asked the sage to withdraw his curse, but he refused.

Overflowing Bowl

Vaishampayan continuing his tale said, Duryodhana cunningly took all that Yudhistira had. The good and king Yudhistira left Hastinapura with his brothers and wife started their journey northwards. People flanked to see them and all were sad to see them go. People were cursing Dhritarashtra and his sons for what they had done to the Pandavas. A land where Shakuni like people lived, was bound to be doomed. They told Yudhistira that they would also go with him to the forests.

Yudhistira addressing them said they should not give more grief to the grieving Kuru elders and leave them. They should be with them.

The Pandavas went till they reached the banks of the river Jhanavi. They chose a spot and rested the night there, watching various sages performing their sacrifices on the banks of the river, by lighting their fires.

In the morning, the Pandavas started their journey entering the dense forest. Many sages wanted to accompany them. Yudhistira said to them that if they went along they would see only grief and troubles, and it would be better if they stayed where they were. A sage called Saunaka told Yudhistira that money was the cause of troubles and grief. Now that the Pandavas had no wealth they were to be mentally free. Men had the thirst for wealth, something that the sages had given up.

Yudhistira said he was not worried about wealth. He was wondering how he would take care of the sages accompanying him. Saunaka said Do not worry about that. You start worshiping and through your meditation gather that power with which you will be able to take care of all.

Dhumya, the sage and priest of the Pandavas, guided Yudhistira on how he should be worshiping and praying. Yudhistira then started praying to the Sun God.
The Sun God appeared and gave Yudhistira a bowl. He said what ever food was kept in the bowl, would keep increasing and overflowing till Draupadi had her meal. Once Draupadi had finished, the vessel would become empty for the day. 

Pandavas leave

The Pandavas along with Draupadi discarded their royal robes and dressed as sages. Dushasana seeing this said to Draupadi - Your father gave you away to beggars. If you wish, I will take you over and treat you royally.
Bhima said Your death is close by which is why you say things like this. When I catch in the battlefield I will remind you of all your words. I will kill all the hundred sons of Dhritarashtra myself.
Arjuna said If there is a war after thirteen years, I will kill Karna. Rivers of blood will be formed from the blood of the Kauravas.
Sahadeva said to Shakuni - You cheated in the game of dice and brought about all evil. I pledge that I will put an end to you.

Yudhistira went to all the elders present in the court and took leave off all.

Vidura said Go to the forests and come back and claim what is yours. In the meanwhile, leave Kunti in my house. In her age, she should not be roaming around in the forests. Also never stay from the path of the righteous.

Draupadi also changed her clothes and got dressed in the garb of a sage's wife, leaving her hair loose.

Kunti fainted seeing her sons leaving for the forest.  Coming to her senses, she was horrified seeing the garb of Draupadi.

Draupadi said to Kunti - Please arise and do not grieve. Please permit me to go to the forests with my husbands.

Kunti said I had known things would happen this way, I would have lived all my life in the forests and never come to Hastinapura. Madri and Pandu were lucky that they did not have to see this. I had to live and see these days. How will I spend my days, not seeing my beloved Sahadeva.

Dhritarashtra wanted to know what was happening. Vidura said the Pandavas were leaving, with their heads bent down. Draupadi walks behind all. Dhumya, their priest goes with them.

Narada then arrived there. He said, With the help of Krishna, fourteen years from now, your dynasty will be gone. Pandavas will come back and they will rule.

Scared on hearing this, Duryodhana and Karna went to Drona and asked him for advise. Drona said I am bound by duty to serve you and I will serve you, even though I am aware that the Pandavas will win, if there is a war. I see my death too, in the hands of Dhristadyumna. You have hurt Draupadi, who is a beloved of Krishna, and that will never be forgiven. There is no escape. All will die in the hands of Bhima and Arjuna.

Dhritarashtra said to Vidura - Please go and get the Pandavas back. If they refuse to come back, then please have them take wealth and chariots with them, in their exile.

Sanjaya said - When all tried to talk to you, O king, you did not listen. Your daughter in law was dragged into the court, by pulling her hair. You have brought about the downfall.

Dhritarashtra could do nothing but lament.

Thus ends Sabha Parva.

Another game of dice

Janmajeya then asked the sage, If Dhritarashtra had pardoned the Pandavas, then why did they have to spend a long time in the forests?

When the Pandavas along with Draupadi had left, Dushasana went to Duryodhana and said Whatever we tried was made futile by the old king.
Along with Karna, Duryodhana, Dushasana and Shakuni went to Dhritarashtra.
Duryodhana said We had captured the lions and you let them free again. An enemy can be vanquished in any way - by right ways or by wrong ways. All the wealth from the Pandavas that became mine was lost, because of you. The Pandavas got their wealth back and they will never forgive me. They will prepare an army and come and attack us. There if Arjuna comes with his Gandiva and his arrows, it would be impossible to defeat the Pandavas.

Dhritarashtra said what was the way out.

Duryodhana said there was a way out. Another game. The loser would go into the forests for twelve years and after that the loser would have to be reside incognito. If spotted, this cycle would continue. If the Pandavas went into the forests, then the kings supporting the Pandavas would come for the support of the Kauravas.

Dhritarashtra agreed and sent a messenger to invite Yudhistira for the game. The elders in the court asked Dhritarashtra not to take this step, but the king blinded by the love for his sons, did not listen.

Gandhari then said to the king, why do you sway when your son says something. Why do you not take a decision on your own. When Duryodhana was born, he had noises like an animal. Do you not remember that? His decisions will bring the downfall of the dynasty. He is your death, in the form of your son. Why are hell bent on ending your dynasty? Listen to me, DO not send for the Pandavas again.

Dhritarashtra said Whet you are telling me, I know already. I can foresee then end of the Kuru dynasty. Let destiny take its path. Let the Pandavas come and play again.

The messenger left for Indraprastha and told Yudhistira about the invitation. Yudhistira said he would not be able to deny the order of Dhritarashtra.

The brothers left for Hastinapura and started the game. Shakuni said the loser of the game would go for twelve years of exile and after that the loser would have to lay hidden for one year. If spotted in that year, another twelve years of exile and one year of hiding would happen and the cycle would continue, if spotted. If not spotted, the loser would claim the kingdom after the thirteen years of exile.

The game started. All asked Yudhistira not to play. He did not listen and Shakuni won the game. 

Pandavas freed

Dhritarashtra was disturbed., He was seeing ill omens. He was hearing the screaming of vultures and owls. He was seeing broken chariots and dead elephants. Temples were falling down.

He came out of the stupor. He heard Bhishma and Drona telling him to act as his time was going by. Duryodhana had performed many misdeeds. Draupadi, who was virtuous, had been dragged into the assembly hall in front of all.

Dritarashtra decided to act. He said to Draupadi - You the eldest and the best among my daughters in law. Look at me, I have to suffer my son's behavior. Please forgive my sons looking at me. Ask for something, that will be granted to you. Please cast away your anger.

Draupadi then said If you want me to ask fro something, then let Yudhistira be free. Let him be a slave no more.

Dhritarashtra agreed to that. He then asked her to ask for something else.

Draupadi said Let the other four brothers be free with their wealth.


Dhritarashtra agreed to that. He then asked her to ask for something else.

Draupadi said she had asked for two things and she would not ask for the third thing and let greed develop in her.

Dhritarashtra said it was find if she asked for something else for the last time.

Draupadi then said all that had been lost in the game, be restored.

All wishes granted, the Pandavas were freed.

Karna laughed and said He was seeing for the first time, a wife coming and freeing her husbands. All wealth was being restored to the Pandavas because of their wife.

Arjuna then said , there was no point in talking to people like this who would always find an excuse to say something wrong. Bhima said he would put an end to the Kauravas but he was stopped by Yudhistira.

Yudhistira then went to Dhritarashtra and asked what he was to do now. The king, ashamed of the events that had occurred, asked Yudhistira to forgive Duryodhana. Go to your land and rule there in peace.

Hearing this, the Pandavas left for Hastinapura.

Bhima vows to break Duryodhana's thigh

Vidura said - Let me tell you about Virochana. Virochana was the son of Prahlada.One day he got into an argument with Sudhanva, the son of sage Angira. Virochana said the king was superior over all. Sudhanva said the brahmana was superior. The argument continued till they decided that the one who lost the argument would have to give up his life.
They approached Prahlada and asked him to decide. Prahlada was in two minds. If he said, the brahmana was superior he would have to loose his son. If he said something else, he would have to go to Hell.
Prahlada then asked the sage Kashyapa for help. Kashyapa asked Prahlada to be fair.
Prahlada went back. He called both the men and said as all men were bowing down to the brahmanas, the brahmana was superior. I consider Angira to be superior and I also believe that Angira's wife is superior to my wife. Now as per the rules, let my son die.

Pleased with the decision, Sudhanva said let your son live for long. You are a just king and shown justice.

All were quiet after Vidura said this. Karna said - Enough talk of justice. Go Dushasana, fetch the maid Draupadi and take her home.

Draupadi was shivering with grief and anger. She looked at her husbands. With her hands on her head she said - When I was in my father's house, all kings had seen me only when I came for the swayamvara. No outsider had seen me before. Today. I am standing in an assembly hall, clad in one garment. I ask a question to all the elders present. I am the daughter of Drupada, wife of the Pandavas and the friend of Krishna. I am being told in front of all to become a slave.

Bhishma said We are all like dead people here. Having seen all this, me and Drona have no words to say. Use the path of justice and get rid of your enemies.

Duryodhana said Draupadi, why do you cry. Your husband Yudhistira has lost you. Why do you ask this again and again.

Bhima then said - This is Yudhistira, the eldest of the Pandavas. We follow his. if he had stopped me, none of you would be alive now. The moment Dushasana touched the hair of Draupadi, his days started getting counted. If he allows me now, I will like to show all how a hungry lion devours a herd of deer.

Karna then said - It is known that a slave's wife is also a slave. So as a Pandava wife, Draupadi is also a slave. Her rightful place is in the palace of Dhritarashtra where she should serve the sons of the king.The thigh that Duryodhana is showing will be broken by me.

The roar of Bhima quietened every one. Vidura said, this was the end of the Kuru dynasty.,

Krishna helps Draupadi

Draupadi the started calling out to Krishna. She said 'Help me O Kind One. Today, in this assembly hall, Draupadi can look to you only for help. You are the one who controls this world. Help your Draupadi. You are the one who helped Prahlada, help me now. With your chakra you helped bring justice to many. '

Krishna heard the pleas of Draupadi. From the skies, garments of many colors started falling. The more Dushasana pulled at Draupadi's garments, the more kept appearing.

Dushasana gave up.

People in the assembly hall started praising Draupadi. Bhima then got up. He said I promise I will tear open Dushasana's chest and drink his blood.

The sages present in the assembly hall started cursing Dhritarashtra. They said You were born blind and your sons are also blind.

Vidura then said There are many kings and noble people in this hall. Why do they not say anything? 

Vikarna intervenes

Bhishma said Yudhistira had lost himself first and then played Draupadi and lost her. Also, Draupadi was not his wife alone, but the wife of the five brothers, so Yudhistira alone could not take a decision about Draupadi. All I can tell you is this. I have no other answer or solution.

Bhima said to Yudhistira - Have you ever seen one's wife being put at stake. There are many gamblers that I have seen, but none have put their women as stake, in their game.We are your brothers and you had right to all of us, but how could you put Draupadi there and now see her condition.

Arjuna said Do not say such things. You are playing the game the enemy wants. They want us to fight here, among ourselves and you are doing just that. The king did not want to play the game in the first place.

Bhima said he was not able to stand this insult and he would like to cut off his hands as he was not being allowed to use them.

Vikarna saw and heard all this. He was a son of Dhritarashtra and a brother of Duryodhana. He shouted - In this assembly, there are many elders. Why are they all quiet. Why are people like Bhishma, Vidura and Dhritarashtra all quiet. Why don't they reply back to Draupadi. Who are you scared off? Time and again Draupadi asks for an answer, but why are you quiet.

All were quiet and no one had an answer.

He said again - 'Is there reason why you do not have an answer? If no one will say a word, let me say something. Shakuni tricked Yudhistira into pawning Draupadi. As Yudhistora had lost himself first, what right did anyone have to ask for Draupadi then? '

Hearing the words of Vikarna, many said this was correct.

Karna said ' Vikarna is talking too much. He deserves death. This child is talking like a big man. Yudhistira gave everything of his away in the game of dice. Draupadi was also a part of everything. Also Draupadi said she was clad in only one garment. So, how many garments does a maid need? Draupadi is like a prostitute. In this world, a woman can have only one husband and Draupadi has five husbands so what else will you call her. '

Duryodhana said 'Vikarna is young and he does not know what is saying.' To Dushasana, he said 'Fetch the clothes and jewels of the Pandavas and Draupadi'. The Pandavas took off their clothes and jewels and gave them to Dushasana. Dushasana then started pulling the garment of Draupadi.

Draupadi brought to the assembly hall

Duryodhana said to Vidura - Yudhistira has lost Draupadi in the game. Go to Indraprastha. Give her the news. Tell her to come here.
Vidura said - Be careful of the words you use. Do not say just what you feel like. Also, what right did Yudhistira have to play Draupadi, when he had lost himself already. Ask the elders prsent here. See what they say. Ask your father, whose greed seems to show in his face. You act like the bamboo plant which flowers before it is about to die. The gourd will always float on water when it is ripe and a stone will always sink. That is their nature. The Pandavas are quiet because it is in their nature. I had advised many times, to stop the game but it was never listened to.

Duryodhana then called a servant and said Do not fear the Pandavas and Vidura. Go and fetch Draupadi.

The servant went to Indraprastha, and went to Draupadi. With folded hands he told her what had happened. She said first go and ask if Yudhistira had lost himself first or had he lost her first. If he had lost himself first, how could he put her at stake. If there was an answer, she would herself come and talk in the assembly hall there.

Duryodhana , thinking the servant had not said anything to her, said Go and bring her here and tell her to ask her questions in front of all.

The servant went back to her and she sent him back saying if she went into the assembly hall , it would bring downfall of the dynasty.

The servant went back to Duryodhana, who told her to not to listen to anything that Draupadi said but to bring her here. The servant said what would he do if Draupadi refused to come.

Duryodhana then called Dushasana and said the servant would not be able to do anything. You go and fetch Draupadi.

Draupadi saw Dushasana coming and she went and hid in the inner quarters of the women. Dushasana tried to enter but was stopped by Kunti who wanted to know why he had come there.

Dushasana pushed Kunti aside and dragged Draupadi by her hair and started pulling her. He pulled the screaming Draupadi on a chariot and brought her swiftly to Hastinapura.

Draupadi said she was having her periods and was in a single garment and it was not proper for her to go to the court like this. Dushasana said he did not care about that.
Draupadi said how would she stand in front of the elders in that way.

Dushasana dragged her by her hair. On the floor, Draupadi wanted to grab onto something on the floor, but was unable to do so. She saw all the Kuru elders there, standing quietly.

Karna and Shakuni said get the maid in, and Dushsana, dragging Draupadi by her hair, brought her in the center of the assembly hall.

Pandavas are insulted

Karna laughed and said to Duryodhana - Look at the Pandavas. These were the same ones who had laughed to you in Indraprastha. Today, they are the laughing stock. Now they are your slaves. As your slaves, they cannot sit where they are sitting now. They are slaves and they should be sitting with slaves. They should be assigned tasks like the other servants and slaves. Yudhistira should bear beetle nut. Bhima is strong and should be used to do heavy lifting jobs. Arjuna should be given the task of serving you as your personal servant. The sons of Madri should fan you. Draupadi should be made a maid.

Duryodhana laughed and told the Pandavas to go and sit with the other servants. Dusshasana pushed Yudhistira and told him to leave the royal seat and immediately go and take his due place. Bhima became angry. He picked up his mace but kept it down when he saw Yudhistira not showing encouragement. Arjuna also told him to calm down and not do anything rash.

The Pandavas took off their ornaments and went and sat on the floor with the other servants.

Duryodhana then asked Vidura to bring Draupadi in the hall.

The game of dice

In the morning, Yudhistira entered the hall where the game would be played. All sat in their designated seats. Shakuni then came with the dice and the mat on which the game would be played.
Shakuni said he had heard like to play dice, so let us have a game. Yudhistira said he had heard that the game was trouble for the one who played.
Shakuni said the game was a just game. One needed to think and play, like war.
Yudhistira said It seems you are bent on winning the game by unjust ways.
Shakuni said If you are not interested in the game, you may return back to your kingdom.
Yudhistira said As he had come there, he would not leave.
Duryodhana said Shakuni would play on his behalf.

The game started and all came to have a look. Vidura watched, feeling uneasy.
Yudhistira said he would lay Indraprastha and its wealth at stake. Shakuni won that in the game.
Yudhistira then played the horses of Indraprastha. Shakuni won that,
Yudhistira then put his chariot at stake, which was won.
Yudhistira played the elephants, which was won.
Yudhistira played all maids in his kingdom, they were won too.

Yudhistira played the brahmans serving Indraprastha. They were won.
He then played the horses given by the gandharva Chitraratha. They were won.
The army of Indraprastha was then played, which was won by Shakuni.

Vidura said to Dhritarashtra - Stop this game. Stop your son. Remember your son who had brayed like a donkey when he was born. He will bring about your downfall. Your son is intoxicated with grief. Stop him and let things be. Let the Pandavas go and you be separate from them. Let there be no connections between the two. Do not invite your downfall and the death of your sons. Shakuni is scheming. He has left his own land to bring about the downfall of your clan.

Turning to Shakuni, Vidura said - Shakuni, stop this game.

Angry, Duryodhana said - Who has asked for your opinion and advise. You have always thought ill for Dhritarashtra. You have always preferred the sons of Pandu.

Vidura said I did not say anything to you, but I spoke to your father. He is not listening to me.

The game resumed.

Yudhistira played his cattle. That was won.
Yudhistira played the lands that had been won by m. That was won.
Yudhistira then played the ornaments he and his brothers were wearing. That was won.

Shakuni asked the king. what would be play now.
Having nothing, he then played the most handsome of his brothers, Nakula. Nakula was won.
Yudhistira then played the learned and wise Sahadeva. He was won too.
Shakuni then asked the king did he want to stop as he had given by brothers who were from a different mother.
Yudhistira then said he did not see any differences between any of his brothers.
Yudhistira then played Arjuna who was won. He then played Bhima. Shakuni won Bhima too.
Seeing nothing else left, Yudhistira then played himself.
After winning him, Shakuni said you still have Draupadi. Why don't you play her too?

In a daze, Yudhistira said, roll the dice.

Hearing this, Karna and Duryodhana started laughing.

Dhritarashtra asked what was the result. His evil nature, was coming out.

Bhishma, Drona, Kripa and Vidura had tears in their eyes.

Invitation for the game

Janmajeya asked the sage - Please tell me about the game of dice where my ancestors lost everything and went through lot of grief and trouble. Who all played the game? Who were in the all when the game was played?

The sage said Hearing the words of his son, disturbed the blind king. He called Duryodhana and said - Stop this game of dice. Vidura has not given his consent to this. Why are you jealous of the Pandavas? You gave the land the Pandavas have and they have made the best of it.

Duryodhana said - It was natural to admire what the other person had. Pandavas have prosperity which I do not have. Krishna and the kings listen to Yudhistira. I was in charge of the treasury during the sacrifice and I saw the wealth they have. I was also insulted in their palace. When I could not figure out where to go, I was laughed at when I tried to lift my clothes thinking the floor was water. When I saw water, thinking it to be crystal, i unknowingly stepped into it and I was laughed at by the Pandavas and Draupadi. I was then given dry clothes. I find this insulting. When I was trying to go out, I kept bumping my head into the crystal walls. The sons of Madri came and helped me. I desire what the Pandavas have.

Dhritarashtra said - It is not good to desire what the other has. Organize a sacrifice like Yudhistira did. Invite kings. All kings will come. You will also get a lot of wealth and gifts. Do not look for short roads to success.

Duryodhana refused to listen.

Seeing his son would not listen, Dhritarashtra sent for Vidura. Vidura said - The entire clan will be destroyed because of this game. Stop this.
When Vidura saw the king was going to listen to his son, he set forth for his journey.

He went to Indraprastha where he was heartily welcomed. Vidura said to Yudhistira that the king, Dhritarashtra wanted him to come to Hastinapura along with his brother for a game of dice.

Yudhistira said Dice is known to be a game that destroys all. Please advise what I should do.

Vidura said I know of the evils of Dice. I told the king to not have the game but the king did not listen.

Yudhistira said the game of dice was like war and if invited, a kshatriya would attend the same.

Along with his brothers , Yudhistira started for Hastinapura.

They reached Hastinapura in the evening and went greeted Gandhari and all women of Hastinapura. 

Duryodhana leaves for Hastinapura

When the kings started leaving, after the sacrifice, Krishna went to Yudhistira and said it was time he too left for Dwaraka. He asked Yudhistira to look after his subjects well. Krishna then went to Kunti to take leave off her. He then went to Draupadi and Subhadra, took their leave and greeted all five brothers and then left for Dwaraka.
Soon all had left except Duryodhana and Shakuni who wanted stay back and see Yudhistira's palace. They explored and were amazed to see the palace studded with gems, comparable with the abode of the Gods.
He approached a crystal floor and thinking it to be water, folded his garments before he stepped into it. Stunned, he kept looking at the floor and not noticing where he was going, he stepped into a small pond and fell into it. Every one around started laughing. The pandavas pulled Duryodhana up and gave him dry clothes to wear.
Duryodhana then decided to leave but kept bumping into walls made of crystal. Again, everyone started laughing. Seeing this, Yudhistira asked Nakula to show Duryodhana the door.
Insulted, Duryodhana left for Hastinapur along with Shakuni.

Duryodhana was quiet on his way back. Shakuni asked him the reason. The prince said he was shocked to see the luxury and wealth of Yudhistira. Also Yudhistira had the command of the kings of the world.
Shakuni said it was impossible to win over the Pandavas in war. He knew of a way to defeat the Pandavas. Shakuni said Yudhistira liked to play chess but he was not good at it. Dice was like war. If Yudhistira was invited for a game of dice, he would suffer defeat.

Duryodhana then went to Dhritarashtra and told him he wanted all that Yudhistira had, and he would use a game of chess to win everything. Dhritarashtra said he would talk to Vidura.
Vidura said this was the sign of bad times and this should not be allowed. 

Shishupala

The sacrifice continued. The worships happened. Once the worship was over the elders had to be worshipped. Yudhistira asked Sahadeva to ask Bhishma who the person who was to be worshiped first. Bhishma said Krishna deserved this honor. Happy, Sahadeva went to Krishna with flowers and fruits, and worshiped him. Seeing Krishna being worshiped, Shishupala, the king of Chedi, became angry.
He said to Bhishma - There are many kings who are here, many of them are old with age and wisdom, and some of them deserve the honor that is being shown to Krishna. There is Drupada here. There is Krishna's father, Vasudeva present. Why worship the son when the father is present. Vyasa is also present and he can be given the honor. There is a great warrior like Karna present, who is a disciple of Parasurama. Why not Karna? If the worship of Krishna was beacuse, he was a well wisher of the Pandavas, then why had the other kings been invited?
Saying this Shishupala decided to leave the place, along with his followers. Seeing this, Yudhistira said , Do not leave this place. Krishna's worship was agreed by all and the sages present are happily worshiping him. Bhishma himself suggested the name of Krishna.
Bhishma said, Let Shishupala go. He is here to destroy the peace. When all three worlds worship Krishna, whom I to say something against that. Krishna is the greatest and other kings are compared against Krishna.
Sahadeva said, An insult of Krishna was a grave insult and I will not stand that.

Sishupala asked his followers to destroy the sacrifice. Chaos started. Yudhistira appealed to Bhishma for help. Bhishma said Any one who has worshiped Krishna will not be harmed. Let these tiny animals play while the lion sleeps. Once the lion awakes, these animals will run. Till the time Krishna does something, these people will act like this.

Shishupala then said , You have grown old. Act like your age. With age people get wise. You are losing your wisdom. What has Krishna done? He killed a woman, Putana. He is proud of having killed animals in the forests. He hypnotized Kamsa and killed him. He moved around with the Gopis and did not have holy men for company. What should I say about Bhishma who abducted the daughters of Kashi - Amba and her sisters, and was the reason for Amba's death. You are like the old swan. He used to stay with a group of swans. Thinking the old swan was wise, the other swans would leave their eggs with him to guard and the old swan would eat up the eggs. When the other swans realized this, they killed him. You, Bhishma, will also die in the hands of these people. Krishna killed Jarasandha cunningly.

Hearing all his, Bhima jumped and caught hold of Shishupala. With great difficulty, Bhisma managed to control Bhima had had him release Shishupala.

Bhishma said Let me tell about Shishupala. When he was born, he had four hands and three eyes and he brayed like a donkey. His parents wanted to discard him, but they heard a voice from the heaven. The voice said - This boy will become a big strong king. He will loose his extra limbs when he is placed on the lap of his killer.
The king and queen invited all to hold the child, hoping the child will look normal. One day Krishna and Balarama also visited the king. The king was related to them, as his wife was a cousin of Vasudeva, Krishna's father. The moment Krishna held the child, the extra limbs fell off and the third eye vanished.
The queen went to Krishna and asked him to forgive the sins of Shishupala. Krishna said he would forgive a hundred sins of Shishupala.
The hundred sins are not yet over, which is why Krishna is quiet now.

Shishupala said Why do you worship someone who is my enemy? If he was someone who deserved your worship, he would have blessed you by now. You should have chosen Karna or any other great warrior. There is a bird called Bhulinga living on the other side of the Himalayas. Bhishma, that bird always keeps saying Never do anything rash, but itself acts in a very rash manner. Having little intelligence the bird picks food from the lion's mouth the pieces of flesh sticking between the teeth, when the lion is still eating. You are living only because of these kings.

Bhishma said - You keep talking ill of the one whose praises are sung by Shiva and the other Gods. Shishupala is alive now, only because Krishna wishes so.

Shishupala said If that is so I will now kill Krishna and the son of Pandu who worships Krishna.

Krishna said this person is a sinner. He has always looked for options to trouble people, especially me. He has forcibly abducted girls who were his cousins. The king Bhishmaka's daughter Rukmini, who none other than Lakshmi, wanted to marry me, and this Sishupala wanted her.

Shishupala laughed and said Rukmini was promised to me but Krishna abducted her.

Krishna said I have excused Shishupala's many sins. He has long crossed the hundred mark.

Saying this, Krishna, called for Sudarshana. The discus went and cut off Shishupala's head. A ray of light came out of the his body and entered Krishna's feet. The kings who had been shouting along with Shishupala were now quiet.

Sishupala's son was made the son of the kingdom of Chedi.

The sacrifice and all its formalities finished. 

Krishna shows his real self

Vibhishana was happy. He had heard that Narayana had been born as the son of Vasudeva. This was the same Narayana whom he had served. There was nothing more wonderful other than the fact that Narayana himself had sent for Vibhishana.
Calling his well wishers and friends, he decided to leave for Indraprastha.
Vibhishana, entering Indrapratha saw Krishna. Tears started flowing from his eyes at the sight of the Lord.
Krishna went to Vibhishana and hugged him. Vibhishana presented all the gifts that he had got, to Krishna.
Krishna said he would take Vibhishana to Yudhistira. Vibhishana said he said come there to see Krishna and would not like to see or meet anyone else.
Krishna said the invitation was from Yudhistira who was performing the sacrifice, and as the son of Dharma, he deserved respect.
Vibhishana said he had made a bow that he would not bend down in front of anyone else other than Krishna. Take me to meet anyone, I will come with you, but I will not bend down in front of anyone else.
When Krishna tried to enter the main sacrificial hall with Vibhishana, he was stopped by people guarding the gates. They said Vibhishana would have to wait outside till the news came to allow them into the main hall. There were many kings and guests who had been waiting for days to go inside, and Visbhishana was asked to go and sit with them till he was called.

They waited for their turn and were finally able to go in. Finally Sahadeva came got them inside.

The moment Krishna entered, string winds started blowing. All started falling down in a faint. Krishna started increasing his size and  the entire universe was in him. He had thousands of faces, thousands of eyes

Yudhistira bowed down at Krishna and calmed him. He asked for the reason for this. Krishna said he was a slave of his devotees and if the devotee was insulted, he felt greater insult. For days Vibhishana had been made to wait, and the reason that was given was , that the king was busy

Yudhistira realized his mistake. He gave orders for the kings and nagas and Gods who had been waiting were to be brought inside. .

Off the people inside only Vyasa and Narada knew about Krishna's form. The rest all forgot seeing the real self of Krishna.

Hidimba Draupadi quarrel

Hearing the news of the sacrifice, Drupada along with Dhristadyumna and Shikhandi started for the sacrifice. His daughter would become an empress. He told many gifts along with him. Nakula came and greeted Drupada. The gifts were handed over to Duryodhana who would be handling those. Drupada and kings accompanying him went inside.
Ghatotkacha, son of Hidimba, hearing the news of the sacrifice, Riding on a white elephant along with many rakshasas and carrying many gifts, he started for Indraprastha. Sahadeva told Yudhistira that Ghatotkacha along with his mother had come.
Hidimba went where the other women were while Ghatotkacha went where Yudhistira was sitting.
Hidimba went and greeted Kunti and cleverly avoided Draupadi. This offended Draupadi who said this was in Hidimba's character. This was someone who had married the killer of her brother.
Hidimba was angry. She said - Draupadi, your father was bound and captured by Arjuna and he gave his daughter away to the same Arjuna. My brother was evil and he deserved death. Also, I was married to Bhima long before you came in the life of the Pandavas. Your sons have no identity while my son is well known and has control over the beings of the forest.

Draupadi angry said I curse your son to die in the hand of Karna. Hidimba said You cursed my son for no reason. You will loose all your sons. My son will die in battle but your sons will be murdered.

Kunti seeing things going out of control, went to intervene.

Rajsuya sacrifice starts

Yudhistira asked Sahadeva to ask Dhuamya, their priest, to provide a list of items needed for the Rajsuya sacrifice. Whatever Dhaumya said was to be noted carefully and the double of that quantity was to be purchased and kept. All people of all sects were to be invited for the sacrifice. All types of food was to be prepared.

Getting permission from Yudhistira, Sahadeva got ready. He started getting buildings constructed and temples decorated. Houses were constructed for people to stay. The houses were filled with food of every kind.

Yudhistira then asked Nakula to go to Hastinapura and invite all for the sacrifice. Nakula went and announced the same and all citizens of Hastinapura started their journey towards Indraprastha. Bhishma and Drona began overseeing what was to be done. Duryodhana took over the responsibility of looking over the kitchen and Dusshasana was given the responsibility of providing food to all. Aswatthama was asked to attend on the Brahmanas. Sanjaya was appointed to offer gifts to the kings who came. Kripa took over the task of giving gifts to the brahmanas. Krishna took the task of looking after all. Karna took the task of welfare of the people and giving gifts to them. The others took over the tasks of guarding the gates and making sure all was fine.

Many kings came and were taken care of well.

Janmajeya then asked who were the kings and who came. The sage said :


Yudhistira then asked Krishna who all should be inviting as guests. Krishna said starting with the Gods in the heaven to the Nagas in the nether world, all were to be invited. Yudhistira wanted to know who would go where, for inviting them. Krishna asked Yudhistira to send Arjuna to the heavens. Arjuna, happy to be of service, started on his journey.

He first went north and invited Kubera to come along with all the kings in his area. Kubera accepted the invite. Arjuna asked Kubera what was the way to go to Indra. Kubera asked Chitrasen, to accompany Arjuna and take him where he wanted to go.
On his chariot with Chitrasen, they started their journey. On their way, Arjuna saw the abode of Shiva. Arjuna stopped there and prayed to Shiva and asked him to attend the sacrifice. Shiva and Parvati both agreed to attend the sacrifice along with the kings they knew.
Chitrasen took Arjuna then to Indra. Arjuna asked Indra to come and attend the sacrifice along the celestial sages, kings and all the people he knew. Indra said he had already started preparing himself for the journey.
Arjuna then went southwards. At the end the world, was the land of Yama. Arjuna  Arjuna reached that land and was welcomed by Yama, who wanted to know the purpose of his visit. Arjuna said he had come to invite Yama for Rajsuya sacrifice. Yama accepted the invite and said he would bring along with him all he knew. Arjuna then said he had from Narada about Yama's assembly hall and then dead people resided there. If that was the case, could he meet his father? Yama said that would not be possible for a living mortal to see the dead.
Arjuna, from the land of Yama, went to the land of Varuna, which was on the west. Arjuan went and told Varuna the reason for his arrival and invited him. Varuna  said he would come with all the kings he knew. From there he went to meet, Maya, the demon. He invited him to come and attend the sacrifice. Maya said he would come along with the kings he knew.
From there, Arjuna went south towards Lanka, Vibhishana ruled, Vibhishana was happy to hear of the sacrifice of Yudhistira. He said he could come to attend the sacrifice and also to see Narayana there.
Taking leave, Arjuna started back for Indraprastha.
Arjuna came and told Krishna who all he had invited. Krishna then told him to go to the nether world and invite the Nagas.
Arjuna went to the nether world and met Vasuki, the king of the Nagas who had a thousand hoods. Arjuna with folded hands requested Vasuki to attend the sacrifice.
Vasuki said why he being invited when Krishna was there. Krishna was everything in this world and with Krishna being there, no one else was needed. Arjuna still requested him to come. Vasuki said he held the earth on his head. If he went off from there, the earth would collapse.. Arjuna said Krishna had specifically asked for Vasuki, and if that was the case, he Arjuna would hold the earth till Vasuki returned.
Vasuki laughed and said he would like to see that. Arjuna then lifted his Gandiva. He took the name of Shiva, Krishna and remembered Dronacharya, his Guru.  He then took a wonderful weapon and fitted that on his bow. The weapon, when released, took the entire weight of the earth. Amazed, Vasuki, Shesha and the other nagas left for attending the sacrifice.

In the heavens, on his elephant, Indra arrived with many kings and celestial beings. Gandharvas, Kinnaras, Apsaras all came to the sacrifice. All mountains and rivers also went to attend along with Varuna and the kings Varuna knew. Shiva, with his matted hair along with Parvati came. Thousands of kings and millions of Gods and celestial beings came and attend the sacrifice. 

Arjuna goes to conquer kings

Arjuna said to Yudhistira that he wanted to help in the Rajyasuya sacrifice. He said he would help conquer kings and take their acceptance. Yudhistira permitted Arjuna to do so. Arjuna marched off, on his chariot, with his Gandiva and an army following him.

Arjuna fought and won over some kings. In his journey he landed in the kingdom of Pragjyotish. This was ruled by Bhagdatta. A fight ensued between the two. For eight days the fight continued till Bhagdatta said he was pleased with Arjuna's skills. He said his family had been friends with Pandu and wanted to know why Arjuna wanted the fight. Arjuna said he had come in behalf of Yudhistira and wanted the king to accept the allegiance of Yudhistira. The king agreed.

Arjuna continued his journey. Defeated many kings and winning over many, he reached the kingdom of Trigarta. It was wonderful land with multi colored horses and parrots, the color of peacocks. Arjuna fought and won over the king.

Arjuna then went to Kailasha. Kubera ruled there. Arjuna fought with Yakshas of Kubera and won over the yakshas.

From there Arjuna went to the lake Mansarovar. North of that he reached the land of Harivarsha. The guards rushed towards Arjuna with iron maces. They said humans do not come here. They said he would not be able to see anything there. Arjuna said he would not enter their land if they gave him wealth for Yudhistira. The guards gave him a lot of wealth which Arjuna took.

Having completed his journey, Arjuna started southwards towards Indraprastha.

Krishna hearing of Arjuna's return, also started from Dwaraka towards Indraprastha.

Yudhistira welcomed Krishna and told him he was now ready for the Rajsuya sacrifice. 

Death of Jarasandha

Bhima and Jarasandha fought non stop. First it was with maces. Jarasandha said to Bhima You have invited your death by coming to Magadha. Bhima said Death is calling out to you. I have come as death's messenger.
Maces discarded they started wrestling. They started throwing each other around, in the arena.
The sounds they made were loud. Slapping of bodies and their voices were the only sounds that could be heard.
They picked up the maces again, and sparks flew when the maces struck each other. For fourteen days they kept fighting.

The two were tired. Constant fighting without a break and food was getting to them.

Jarasandha soon collapsed on the ground. Taking this as an opportunity, Bhima picked up Jarasandha and swinging his body around, dashed it against the ground. He was surprised to see Jarasandha alive.
Bhima looked at Krishna for help. Krishna said to Bhima, you have forgotten about Jarasandha's birth. To kill him, you will have to tear his body into two.

Bhima taking that as a clue, went back. Pressing one foot of Jarasandha, he ripped the body apart and threw the body pieces away. Jarasandha was dead.

Hearing this, Sahadeva, son of Jarasandha came to Krishna and fell at his feet. Krishna consoled him and announced that he would be the next king of Magadha. All the imprisoned kings were released. Krishna asked the kings to return to their kingdom and show their good will when Yudhistira would be performing the Rajsuya sacrifice.

Krishna along with Bhima and Arjuna then left Magadha in a chariot and reached Indraprastha. They bowed down before Yudhistira and told him all that had happened.

Krishna then set forth for Dwaraka. 

Krishna goes to Magadha with Bhima and Arjuna

Seeing an auspicious day, Krishna along with Arjuna and Bhima left for Magadha. They went in the guise of ascetics. Crossing rives, lakes and mountains, they reached the kingdom of Magadha. It was surrounded by five hills. Krishna said he would tell them about the five hills. The hills would embrace the city if enemies approached. The gates were guarded by two ferocious snakes. The gates could scream and if the enemies came till the gates unannounced, the gates would raise a huge noise and awake the city and make the citizens aware.

Krishna said they would need to enter the city very carefully. The screaming gates and hills had to be avoided. Krishna thought of Garuda. Garuda, the enemies of snakes arrived. Seeing him, the sankes fearing their lives fled.

Arjuna said he would tackle the gates. With an arrow he shot down the gates. They then climbed the mountains. The peaks started trembling, trying to close but Bhima broke the mountains. Bhima, with Krishna and Arjuna quickly jumped into and entered the city.

It was a beautiful city. Peaceful, with flowers scattered around. They got three garlands and put those around their necks. They roamed around till they reached the palace of Jarasandha. As they were dressed as brahmins, they were not stopped from entering.

They saw the king, sitting in a sacrifice.

Seeing three brahmanas enter, the king got up and welcomed them. He gave them seats to sit. He then looked at them closely. These brahmanas had broad shoulders, long arms and their hands had marks that came from yeilding weapons.
The king said, sages wear garlands around their necks, which brahmanas usually do not. You are dressed like brahmanas but have marks Tell the truth. Who are you? Why are you here?

Krishna said, Flowers and garlands are beloved of Lakshmi, and those who worship prosperity (Lakshmi) adorn themselves. You said we did not ask permission for entering but walked in straight. We have not come in peace which is why we barged in.

Jarasandha said he did not recall having had a feud with the three of them. He said he did not attack without being provoked and did not go around making enemies.

Kirshna said It was the opposite. Jarasandha had captured ninety five kings and had made them prisoners. He was awaiting five more. When he had a hundred captured kings, he would sacrifice them in front of Shiva and proclaim himself emperor. Krishna said he was against this kind of practice and he wanted to put an end to this. He then he said he was the same person had got defeated and had run away to Dwarka. He was Krishna, son of Vasudeva. Two of the sons of Pandu, Bhima and Arjuna, were with him.
Krishna asked Jarasandha to surrender or have fight.

Jarasandha got angry. He said You talk of the olden days. You ran away and hid in the middle of the sea when you were defeated. You tell me to release kings, whom I have fought and capture using my force. You have no right to say anything. The kings will be sacrificed in front of Shiva. Do not talk of olden days, O son of cowherd. You ask for a fight even after facing defeats.

Bhima hearing this started shaking in anger. Krishna said Jarasandha was free to choose that one person of the three he wanted to fight.

Jarasandha said, if a fight was needed, it would happen. He was ready. The three were not. They were not prepared for war. Krishna said a war between armies was known. How about a man to man combat.

Jarasandha said he was fine with that. He looked and said Arjuna was a child in front of him. Krishna was not eligible. Bhima came close and he would choose Bhima for a wrestling match.

The king got up and got two strong maces. He gave one to Bhima. They went to the arena where they would wrestle.

Krishna tells Yudhistira about Jarasandha

Yudhistira told Krishna about the conversation that he had had with Narada and about Pandu's wish.
Krishna said he was absolutely fine with Yudhistira performing Rajsuya sacrifice. Along with Yudhistira needed to be aware of the fact that the consent of a hundred thousand kings was needed for this, and they needed to accept Yudhistira's supremacy.
In Magadha, Jarasandha was ruling and he had many followers. Jarasandha's two daughters had been married to Kamsa, Krishna's maternal uncle. Kamsa had died in Krishna's hands. The two wives of Kamsa asked their father to attack Krishna.
Seventeen times Jarasandha attacked Mathura, and every time Krishna and Balarama fought with Jarasandha but were defeated him. When Jarasandha tried attacking for the eighteenth time, Krishna decided Mathura was no longer safe. They moved to Dwaraka. The people who did not go with Krishna to Dwaraka, were made captive my Jarasandha.
Saying this, Krishna said, Yudhistira needed to defeat Jarasandha and free the prisoners. Jarasandha needed to be killed.
Yudhistira said he was fine with that but before killing someone he wanted to try and see if the method of friendship and peace worked, before attacking Bhima disagreed and said it was good to finish him off upfront.
Krishna said he would think of a way of killing Jarasandha and for that he needed Arjuna and Bhima.
Yudhistira said Jarasandha was the reason why Krishna had to flee from Mathura. If this was the power of Jarasandha, then there was no point in performing a sacrifice like that.
Arjuna said No one was immortal and all would have to die one day. It was good to die a hero's death rather than running away.
Yudhistitra asked Krishna to tell more about Jarasandha. Krishna then started telling Yudhistira :

The land of Magadha was ruled by the king Brihadratha. He was a powerful king, married to the two princesses of Kashi. He had no children. Frustrated, he left the kingdom and along with his two wives retired into the forest. As soon he entered the forest, he met the sage Chandakaushika. He prostrated himself in front of the sage and asked for blessings. The sage asked him where he was going. The king said he was frustrated as he had no children and was going to the forest along with his wives. Suddenly a mango fell on the lap of the sage, who was sitting below a mango tree. He gave the mango to the king and asked him to give the fruit to his chief queen. A child would be born to her.

Taking the blessings of the sage, the king returned back. He divided the mango equally among the two queens. The two queens soon were pregnant and gave birth at the same time. Each had given birth to half a child. The queens asked the maids to throw the delivered parts away.

A rakshashi named Jara happened to be passing by. She saw the two parts and put the two, together. The moment they came together, it formed a child and it started crying out.

Jara, who was hungry decided not eat the baby. This would not satisfy her hunger. On the contrary if the king was pleased, he would give her gifts. Changing into a human form, she took the child to the king and told the king all that had happened. The king rewarded Jara and she left. As the child had been joined by Jara, it was named Jarasandha.

When he was of age, Jarasandha was handed the throne of Magadha. He was a very powerful and ruled by force. It was impossible to defeat him in war. The only way to defeat him was to wrestle with him.

Saying this, Krishna said Bhima was capable of defeating Jarasandha. He said would go with Bhima and Arjuna to Magadha and put an end to Jarasandha, 

Narada comes to visit Yudhistira

One day Narada came to visit Yudhistira. Everyone got up when they saw him. Yudhistira bowed down to him, offered him a seat and worshiped him. The sage asked Yudhistira how things were in his land. Yudhistira said all his subjects were happy and he had everything under his control. Yudhistira showed him the grand assembly hall and the sage said he not seen anything like this.

He started describing the assembly halls he had seen. Indra's assembly hall was built by Vishwakarma. Countless sages and Gods sat there along with Harishchandra. Narada spoke of the assembly hall of Yama which which was built in way to maintain uniform weather all through out the year. Many kings lived there with Yama. Varuna's assembly hall was inside the water. It was called Pushkarmali. All rivers of the world could come and assemble there. Kubera's assembly hall was built by Vishwakarma on Kailasha. It was a joyous place where constant song and dance was performed. Vibhishana lived there, serving his brother, Kubera. Close by lived Shiva with Uma and his children.

Narada said the assembly hall of Indraprastha was beyond comparison.
Yudhistira asked why alone was Harischandra in Indra's court while the other kings were in Yama's court.

Narada said Harishchandra had successfully completed the Rajyasuya sacrifice. Other kings who tried this sacrifice did not survive, so their sacrifices were incomplete.

Narada said Pandu had sent his greetings to Yudhistira and had said that of all the sacrifices, Rajyasuya was the biggest and Yudhistira should perform that.

Yudhistira sent for his brothers after Narada left. he asked them what they felt about what Narada had said about the sacrifice. They all agreed and thought it was best to ask for Krishna's advise. Yudhistira sent a message to Krishna. On hearing that Krishna. climbed on Garuda and came to Indraprastha. 

Assembly Hall built

Janmajeya asked the sage - Arjuna and Krishna had helped Maya escape. How did Maya repay this?
The sage said :
Maya said to Krishna. You saved me from my death. My live is yours now. Please let me know what I can do for you.
Krishna said if you want to help, please construct an assembly hall for Yudhistira.
Maya constructed an assembly hall, the likes of which one was not visible in the three worlds.

Krishna then decided to take leave and return to Dwaraka. He took leave of Kunti and then went to Subhadra. He told her to take care of Kunti and the Pandavas and hold no ill will towards Draupadi. He then went to Draupadi and took leave of her.
He went and greeted Yudhistira and the priest Dhumya and asked for their permission to leave.
With teary eyes they bid him farewell. Krishna then took leave of the other Pandavas and got his chariot ready and left for Dwaraka.

After Krishna left, Maya approached Arjuna. He said he would be going to the Mainaka mountain, north of Kailasha. A demon called Vrishaparva had once built a grand palace there using rare gems. Along with that, there was a wonderful mace equal to that given to Krishna. Bhima deserved that. There was a wonderful conch shell there called Devadutta. He said he would get that for Arjuna. He asked for Arjuna's permission.

Arjuna said, if that was what he wanted to do, he was welcome. Maya went to the mountain and came back with a lot of wealth. He gave the conch shell to Arjuna and the mace to Bhima. He got wonderful crowns for the Pandavas. He remodeled the palace of Indraprastha using pillar of crystal and rare gems. Wonderful gardens were created with rare trees, with bees flying around the flowers.
One walking around walked carefully as they were not sure whether they were on high ground or low ground, on water or on land.

In a month Maya completed the construction and every thing was ready. Brahmanas and priests were invited for the grand opening of the same.

Pandavas with their well wishers and brahmanas started ruling from the new assembly hall in Indraprastha.