Chapter 1: The Gathering Storm

In the ancient kingdom of the Pandavas, a special feature was unfolding, a tale that would echo through the ages. The air was thick with anticipation as the grand assembly of the royal sacrifice commenced. The music of the court played softly, setting the stage for an event that would be remembered for generations.

In the midst of this, a voice filled with despair declared, "There will be no place for me there. I will not keep this life anymore. At this moment, I will give up my life, O King. But you must be ready to take on all the responsibilities of the future. This wrongdoing must be stopped, or else there will be great disaster."

Such was the gravity of the situation, as the great epic, the Mahabharata, narrated by the sage Vedavyasa, unfolded. Many scholars, including Haridas Siddhanta Bagish, Kaliprasanna Singh, and Rajshekhar Basu, had translated this timeless tale into Bengali, making it accessible to all. From these translations and traditional interpretations, a simplified version of the Mahabharata was crafted, just for you.

In the heart of the assembly, Shishupal rose, his voice dripping with scorn. He began to criticize Yudhishthira and Krishna, his insults cutting deep. The hall fell silent as Shishupal's words echoed, each one sharper than the last. He attempted to rally the other kings against Krishna, his intentions clear.

But Krishna, calm and composed, had reached his limit. With a swift motion, he summoned his Sudarshan Chakra, a divine discus with the power to end Shishupal's life. In an instant, Shishupal fell, and the danger threatening Yudhishthira's sacrifice vanished.

With the threat gone, Yudhishthira's sacrifice was declared a success. An elder, with a voice full of warmth and wisdom, spoke, "Then, dear Yudhishthira, your royal sacrifice was successful. You are now the emperor. You have nothing to fear. Now rule in peace and happiness, my son."

Yet, amidst the celebrations, a sage approached Yudhishthira, his eyes clouded with visions of the future. "I wish to return with my disciples, O Sage. I have no more numbers left. Please say this kindly, O Sage. No one but you can reassure me, O King," he said.

The sage's reply was somber. "You are not yet free from numbers. Because of Duryodhana's wrongdoing and Bhima and Arjuna's strength, all the Kshatriya kings will be destroyed. This terrible disaster will happen because of you, O King."

The sage continued, revealing a prophecy that would haunt Yudhishthira's dreams. "You will have a frightening dream. In the dream, Yudhishthira will see Lord Shiva sitting on a bull, holding a trident, and glaring at his enemies. This dream will come true, dear one. But do not be afraid. No one can change destiny, Yudhishthira. Not even I. I just came to tell you about the future. Do not ask me anything more. I will now take my leave. Farewell, O Sage, may you be blessed."

Arjuna, listening intently, was troubled by the sage's words. "O King, the Kshatriyas will not be destroyed because of me. Vyasa's words will not be false. This is my fate. I cannot change destiny with human effort. I am Arjuna, you heard the sage's words. If I am the cause of the Kshatriya's destruction, then I do not wish to live such a life. I will embrace death. Until death comes, I will live a life of penance."

Yudhishthira, grappling with doubt and confusion, replied, "Forgive me, O King. Delusion and doubt destroy a person's wisdom. Such words do not suit a righteous person like you. Consider the importance of the situation and follow the path you believe is right, O King."

With a heavy heart, Yudhishthira made a vow. "Alright, if I live for the next thirteen years, I won't have any friends or enemies, whether I like them or not. I'll treat everyone equally. Then, there won't be any differences between us. Maybe that way, I can avoid disaster and war."

His resolve was met with support. "That's the way, Your Majesty. We are all with you."

But deep down, a question lingered in Yudhishthira's mind. "Is there really a connection between what people think and what actually happens? No, what is meant to happen will happen. It can't be stopped. I told Yudhishthira this, but in his excitement and confusion, he tried to change his fate. Is that even possible?"

Meanwhile, in the grand court of Indraprastha, the invited kings sat, their minds still echoing with the day's events. Though most returned to their kingdoms, Duryodhana stayed behind with his uncle Shakuni. He hadn't yet admired the magnificent hall built by the demon architect, Mayasura, during the crowded festival. Its splendor was unmatched, not even by the halls of Hastinapura.

And so, Duryodhana lingered, captivated by the prosperity of Indraprastha, unaware of the shadows gathering on the horizon.

Chapter 2: The Crystal Palace

Duryodhana wandered through the grand crystal hall of Indraprastha, his eyes dazzled by the reflections and colors that danced across the surfaces. The palace, a marvel built by the demon architect Mayasura, was like nothing he had ever seen. Yet, its beauty was deceptive, and the young prince soon found himself ensnared by its illusions.

He approached what appeared to be a shimmering pond, its surface so clear it seemed to invite him to wade in. Carefully, he lifted the hem of his royal robes to avoid getting wet, only to discover that it was solid ground. Another time, he mistook a crystal floor for a mere reflection and stepped confidently forward, plunging unexpectedly into actual water. His clothes soaked through, the laughter of Bhima and Arjuna echoed around him.

"What are you doing, Duryodhana?" Bhima called out, his voice filled with mirth. "Why have you become a water creature, brother? Is Duryodhana trying to be a fish princess?"

Arjuna joined in, chuckling, "Middle brother, can you help him? What happened, little brother? How did you fall into the water? Come, come, take my hand and get up."

King Yudhishthira, ever the gracious host, intervened. "Where is Duryodhana's attire? Bring the finest clothes for Prince Duryodhana immediately."

"As you wish, Your Majesty," came the prompt reply, as a servant hurried forward with a selection of royal garments. "Brother Duryodhana, here is my finest collection of royal clothes. Wear whatever you like."

Despite Yudhishthira's kindness, Duryodhana felt the sting of humiliation. He could barely meet Bhima and Arjuna's eyes, their laughter still ringing in his ears. But the palace had more tricks in store for him. As he tried to leave, he walked headlong into a crystal door he had not seen. Later, he mistook an open doorway for a solid wall, wandering aimlessly as he sought the exit.

"Oh, what is this?" Duryodhana muttered in frustration, rubbing his sore head. "Another crystal wall? Where is the way out? It was right here. I won't go that way; it must be another crystal pillar. So, which way should I go?"

A gentle voice interrupted his thoughts. "Prince Duryodhana, are you looking for something, elder brother?"

Duryodhana turned to see Nakula approaching. "Who is it? Nakula? Yes, I'm looking."

"How can I help you, elder brother?" Nakula asked, his tone sincere and respectful.

Duryodhana sighed, suspicion creeping into his voice. "Have you come to make fun of me like your brothers, Nakula?"

"No, no, Prince," Nakula assured him. "Why would I make fun of you? Our guest is like Lord Narayana himself. Are you looking for the way out, Prince? Come, come, I will show you the way."

Despite Nakula's gentle demeanor, Duryodhana's heart remained heavy. The laughter of Bhima and Arjuna felt like arrows, wounding him deeply. The splendor of the Pandavas' kingdom made his jealousy burn brighter, and his anger festered as he pondered their prosperity.

Finally, the day came for Duryodhana to leave Indraprastha. As he and his uncle Shakuni journeyed back to Hastinapur, Duryodhana sat in silence, his mind a storm of dark thoughts. Every now and then, a sigh escaped him, as heavy as his heart.

Uncle Shakuni, observing the young prince's troubled demeanor, asked gently, "Duryodhana, what's wrong? Why are you so quiet, my son? Why are you sighing so often? What are you thinking about? Duryodhana, can you hear me? I'm asking you something."

Duryodhana blinked, brought back to the present by his uncle's voice. "Forgive me, Uncle, I didn't hear you."

Shakuni's eyes narrowed with concern. "I can see that, my son. I just can't understand what's troubling you so much."

"My heart feels very heavy, Uncle. Nothing seems good anymore."

"Why? Did someone say something to you? Did anyone insult you?"

"No, Uncle, it's not that," Duryodhana replied, his voice tinged with bitterness. "I can't stay calm after seeing the Pandavas' power. With Bhima and Arjuna's strength, the whole world is under Yudhishthira's control. Yudhishthira performed the same grand ceremony that Lord Indra did. All the kings of the world accepted him as the greatest and paid him tribute. Uncle, didn't you see? Didn't you see how Krishna acted unfairly? He killed Shishupal in the full assembly. All the kings were there, but no one protested out of fear of the Pandavas."

"Yes, I saw that, my child," Shakuni nodded, his voice soothing yet firm. "Even the wise Bhishma was there, and he didn't protest. Yudhishthira's treasury is overflowing with wealth. I can't bear the Pandavas' happiness, Uncle. I'm burning with jealousy. I don't want to live this life anymore. Death would be better for me."

"Duryodhana, what are you saying?" Shakuni's voice was filled with alarm, but Duryodhana's heart was too heavy to hear it.

The road ahead was long, and the shadows of envy and resentment loomed large over Duryodhana's soul.

Chapter 3: A Dangerous Game

Duryodhana's face was flushed with desperation as he paced back and forth, his voice trembling with intensity. "I'm telling the truth, Uncle. I will either jump into the fire, drink poison, or drown myself. There is no other way for me but death, Uncle. I am not a child or a woman. Can any strong man tolerate his own misery? You tell me."

Shakuni watched his nephew with a steady gaze, trying to calm the storm within him. "Duryodhana, calm down, my child, calm down. Don't you know that anger leads to destruction? Why so much hatred towards Yudhishthira, my son? They have great fortune. They have always been helped by their luck. That's how they won Draupadi."

Duryodhana's eyes darkened with bitterness. "They also have the support of King Drupad and Krishna. No one can control fate, my son," Shakuni continued softly.

"Yes, Uncle," Duryodhana agreed, his voice tinged with frustration. "If it weren't for fate, they wouldn't have any connection to that kingdom."

Shakuni shook his head. "No, my son, don't be mistaken. Your father himself gave them a part of their ancestral kingdom. That means they did have a connection, right? They turned that small part into an empire with their hard work. That's the real truth."

Duryodhana clenched his fists, his mind racing with thoughts of rivalry. "Are you speaking for me, Uncle, or for Yudhishthira? Listen, Uncle, if you allow me, I will join forces with these great warriors and defeat the Pandavas. Then the whole world will be mine, and Yudhishthira's court will also be mine. I am Duryodhana; I will be the ruler of this world. I will take everything from those Pandavas and make them beggars."

Shakuni placed a hand on Duryodhana's shoulder, his voice gentle but firm. "My son Duryodhana, you seem very restless. But you might be forgetting an undeniable truth."

Duryodhana looked at his uncle, curiosity mingling with impatience. "Son, what am I forgetting? Please tell me clearly, Uncle."

Shakuni paused, gathering his thoughts. "Oh, I'll tell you. Just give me a moment to think. Listen, my son, if Lord Krishna, King Drupad, and Dhrishtadyumna stand with the five Pandavas, no power on earth can defeat them. Understand? Even the king of gods, Indra, can't do it. You can't deny this, my son."

Duryodhana sighed, his resolve wavering. "Yes, Uncle, you are right. So, what can we do?"

A sly smile crept across Shakuni's face. "I have a way, Duryodhana. With this plan, you can defeat Yudhishthira without fighting. Listen to me, and it will be good for you, my son."

Duryodhana leaned in, eager for a solution. "Alright, uncle, tell me what I need to do."

"Listen, my son," Shakuni began, his voice low and conspiratorial. "Yudhishthira loves to play dice, but he's not very good at it. If you invite him to play, he will have to come. And you know, my son, no one in the world can beat me at dice. So, do one thing: invite Yudhishthira to play. Then watch, I will bring you all the wealth and kingdom of the Pandavas. Just get permission from King Dhritarashtra."

Duryodhana hesitated, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. "No, no, uncle, I can't do that. You should tell my father everything. If you want, I can do this task for you today."

As soon as they reached Hastinapur, Shakuni went to King Dhritarashtra. After the day's meeting, the king was resting in his chamber. Shakuni entered the room with Duryodhana by his side.

"Long live the king," Shakuni greeted with a respectful bow. "I came here with Duryodhana to discuss something important."

Dhritarashtra looked up, concern etching his features. "What’s the matter, King of Gandhara? You came straight to me after returning from Indraprastha. Is everything alright?"

Shakuni's tone was grave, his words deliberate. "If everything were alright..."

The king's worry deepened. "Why did you have to rush to me, King of Gandhara? Is something wrong with my Duryodhana?"

"No, Your Majesty, but it might not be long before something happens. That’s why I came to tell you."

"Then tell me now. I can't wait any longer," Dhritarashtra urged, his voice heavy with concern.

Shakuni nodded, his expression serious. "O great king, your Duryodhana is becoming weak with worry and sadness. Please, check on him yourself."

Chapter 4: The Seeds of Discontent

In the grand hall of Hastinapura, King Dhritarashtra sat beside his son, Duryodhana, his heart heavy with worry. The air was thick with tension, and the king's voice was gentle yet firm as he addressed his son. "Son Duryodhana, what is your uncle saying? I see no reason for you to be unhappy. You have the best food every day. You can have any delicious food in the world. You are healthy and strong. You should be happy. I have given you this vast kingdom, beautiful women, and all the wealth. Your brothers, family, and friends are not against you. So why are you upset? If there’s something you can tell me, please do so immediately."

Duryodhana, his expression troubled, replied, "Your Majesty, you are right. I have good food, drink, and clothes, but I have no happiness in my heart. I am living like a coward."

"A coward?" Dhritarashtra's voice was filled with disbelief. "What are you saying, Duryodhana?"

"Yes, Your Majesty, I am telling the truth. No one can be happy with fear and doubt in their heart, father. I can't either."

The king leaned forward, his brow furrowed with concern. "Who has frightened you, my son? And who is brave Duryodhana afraid of? Tell me, my son. I want to solve all your problems right now."

Duryodhana's eyes flashed with frustration as he spoke. "Yudhishthira's royal wealth is really bothering me, Father. The Pandavas' incredible prosperity feels like a thorn in my heart. I can't stand seeing our enemies so glorious."

Dhritarashtra tried to reassure him. "But remember, son, your kingdom has much more wealth than the Pandavas'. You can be at ease. Now, tell me, Duryodhana, what else do you need? I will get it for you."

The young prince shook his head, his voice filled with despair. "No, Father, you can't compare that wealth. In Yudhishthira's palace, 88,000 Vedic Brahmins and each with 30 servants are fed every day. Ten thousand guests eat fine food from golden plates daily. The Pandavas have wealth that even Indra, Kubera, and Varuna don't have, Father. I've seen kings, Brahmins, and merchants bring treasures as tribute there. During the royal sacrifice, a great conch shell was blown after feeding one lakh Brahmins every day. It was impossible to count how many times it was blown in a day. When Vasudeva performed Yudhishthira's coronation with many jewels, golden pots, and fine conch shells, my heart broke, Father. Seeing the enemy's endless wealth makes me more and more sad, King."

King Dhritarashtra listened intently, absorbing his son's words. He turned to Shakuni, who had been standing silently by. "King, you have heard everything from Duryodhana. Now, please suggest a solution."

Shakuni's eyes gleamed with a cunning light. "Let me think, son. I understand your concerns, but I can't suggest a solution right now. I need to think first."

Duryodhana interrupted, his tone insistent. "I know a solution, Father. Uncle Shakuni is very skilled at dice games. He wants to use his dice to take everything from the Pandavas. Please allow him, Father."

Dhritarashtra hesitated, his mind torn. "I can't make a decision without consulting my minister Vidura. I want to hear his advice on whether this dice game proposal is right or wrong. You must wait, son."

Shakuni frowned. "King, Minister Vidura will never approve this proposal. He will advise you against it, and you will listen to him and not order the dice game."

Duryodhana's face darkened with anger. "Fine, if that makes you happy, so be it. Enjoy the world with your Vidura. I will have no place there. I will not keep this life anymore. I will end my life right now, King."

"Duryodhana, no!" Dhritarashtra cried out, panic gripping his heart. "What are you saying, son? Don't be so cruel to your old father. Nothing is dearer to me than your peace."

In his love for his son, King Dhritarashtra found himself unable to stand up to what he knew was right and wrong. He knew that gambling was wrong, which is why he sought advice from his elders. But in the end, Duryodhana’s wishes were all that mattered to him. The king was defeated by his own son’s desires. So, Dhritarashtra ordered his servants, "Send word to all the artists in the land immediately. Build a magnificent hall adorned with precious gems. It should have a thousand pillars and a hundred doors."

"Yes, Your Majesty, we will call the artists right away," a servant responded promptly.

Dhritarashtra gave orders to build a beautiful hall for gambling. However, he never did anything without informing Vidura. So, despite his love for his son, he did not forget to send word to Vidura, even though Duryodhana might not like it.

Chapter 5: The Seeds of Destruction

The air was thick with urgency as the messenger raced through the corridors of Hastinapur's grand palace. His heart pounded with the weight of the news he bore. Bursting into Vidura’s chamber, he exclaimed breathlessly, "Oh no, Your Majesty, what have you done? The hall you are building will be the gateway for great misfortune. From this hall, the seeds of destruction for the Kshatriyas will spread. No, no, I must go to the king immediately. This wrongdoing must be stopped, or else there will be great disaster."

Vidura, ever the wise counselor, understood the gravity of the situation. Without delay, he made his way to the royal court where King Dhritarashtra sat in regal splendor. With a heavy heart, Vidura approached the throne, bowing deeply as he spoke, "Your Majesty, please forgive me. I cannot praise your decision to hold this gambling match. It will lead to great disaster, Your Majesty, great disaster. A conflict will arise between your sons and the Pandavas. You must not let this happen, Your Majesty. You must not let it happen."

King Dhritarashtra, with a calm demeanor, responded, "Vidura, if the gods are with us, no such misfortune will occur. Do not be afraid. Competing is not wrong, and a friendly game is not unethical. Both sides will maintain courtesy, Vidura. And even if something does happen..."

He paused, then continued with a reassuring tone, "Then our elders, the wise Guru Drona, the family teacher, you, I, and many other wise people will be present in that hall. Can we not handle the situation, Vidura? We can, but Vidura, do not disobey my orders. I believe in fate, and fate has led me to this path. Now, quickly take a fast chariot to Indraprastha and bring Yudhishthira here for the gambling match as per my orders."

Meanwhile, in the quiet chambers of the palace, Queen Gandhari learned of the impending gambling match from a maid. Her heart filled with worry, she hurried to her husband's private quarters, interrupting his rest.

"Your Majesty, Queen! You’ve come at such an odd time. Is there a special reason?" King Dhritarashtra asked, surprised.

"The matter is quite serious, Your Majesty, so I couldn’t stay away," Gandhari replied, her voice laced with concern.

"Yes, yes, tell me, Queen. You sound very worried," the king encouraged.

"Good, I'm glad you noticed my concern. But have you thought carefully about what's going to happen in Hastinapur, Your Majesty?" Gandhari inquired.

"Are you talking about the dice game, Queen? So, you've heard the news too, Gandhari? Don't worry, it's just a friendly game. There's no need to be so anxious about it," Dhritarashtra assured her.

"Are you reassuring me or trying to hide your own worries, Your Majesty? By listening to Duryodhana and his uncle Shakuni, are you inviting disaster? You are the ruler of this kingdom; are you being influenced by others? Do you agree with what you're about to do? Have you forgotten that the dice game can bring great harm, especially since my son and brother are always plotting against the Pandavas?" Gandhari pressed on, her voice firm and unwavering.

"I assure you, Gandhari, nothing bad will happen. You're worrying for no reason. Besides, the elders like Bhishma, Guru Drona, the family priest, and I will be there. So why are you so afraid, Queen?" Dhritarashtra replied, trying to calm her fears.

"Have you consulted Vidura, Your Majesty?" Gandhari asked pointedly.

"Vidura? Well, you know, Gandhari, Vidura always speaks of justice and righteousness. So, are you planning to do something that Vidura doesn't support, Your Majesty?" Gandhari's words were sharp and probing.

"I am the king; what I decide will happen. Vidura is my advisor; he can only give me advice, nothing more. He doesn't have the power to make decisions," Dhritarashtra declared, his voice tinged with finality.

"You are right, Your Majesty. But be prepared to bear all the responsibility for what happens in the future," Gandhari warned, her voice softening as she prepared to leave.

"Very well, Your Majesty, I will return to the inner chambers," she said, retreating with a heavy heart.

As Gandhari left, King Dhritarashtra pondered her words. "Responsibility? What responsibility is the Queen talking about? I see the dice game as a divine command. Can humans control fate, Vidura? Doesn't Vidura see it as divine?"

With these thoughts swirling in his mind, King Dhritarashtra sent Vidura to Indraprastha to bring Yudhishthira to Hastinapur for the dice game. But Vidura knew he wasn't going willingly. He also heard Queen Gandhari's objections. Since then, all his enthusiasm seemed to wane.

"Has he really lost it? Is he doing something wrong?" King Dhritarashtra wondered, troubled by the doubts that now plagued him. After Vidura left, he called Duryodhana in private one day.

Chapter 6: The Invitation

King Dhritarashtra sat in his chamber, the weight of his thoughts heavy upon him. He summoned his son, Duryodhana, and spoke with earnestness. "Son," he began, his voice steady yet concerned, "listen to me carefully. There is no need for this dice game. Vidura does not agree with it, and I have always valued his counsel. Vidura speaks for the good of Hastinapur. Listening to him will benefit you, my son. He knows the teachings of wise Brihaspati. Just as Uddhava is the wisest among the Vrishnis, Vidura is the same for the Kurus. I'm telling you, son, this game will only create unnecessary conflict among our relatives."

Duryodhana's eyes flashed with frustration. "Father, you seem to care more about the minister than your own son. So, what's the point of me living anymore?"

Dhritarashtra's heart ached at his son's words. "No, my son, that's not true. You are the apple of my eye. But remember, you have inherited my kingdom. If you wish to perform a grand ceremony like Yudhishthira, I can arrange it for you. You can give gifts to the Brahmins as you wish. Or if you want to enjoy something, there's no restriction. You can go to a beautiful place with your wife. Duryodhana, all the wealth of Hastinapur is yours. So why are you jealous of Yudhishthira, my son?"

Duryodhana shook his head, his voice filled with longing. "Father, I've told you before, I have no interest in an ordinary kingdom. Ever since I saw the splendor of Indraprastha, I have longed for it. Father, kings who are the richest and most powerful in the world, even those as mighty as Indra, have submitted to Yudhishthira. In the royal court of Indraprastha, they bowed their heads. Only two clans in this vast world have not paid tribute to Yudhishthira—the Panchalas because of marriage ties, and the Andhakas and Vrishnis because of friendship. Yet, to honor Arjuna, Vasudeva Krishna gifted several thousand elephants. I was in charge of receiving gifts in Indraprastha's court. Father, I have seen Yudhishthira's wealth with my own eyes."

"Son Duryodhana," Dhritarashtra replied, "if you wish to have all that wealth, I can arrange it right away."

Duryodhana's voice was now tinged with bitterness. "But Father, can you soothe the pain of the humiliation I faced in that crystal hall of Indraprastha? The Pandavas, Draupadi, and even the servants laughed at my ignorance. I haven't been able to forget that insult. Father, if my humiliation doesn't hurt you, then listen to Vidura. You don't need me anymore."

The king's voice wavered with emotion. "King Duryodhana, my son, why do you keep saying the same thing? You are my eldest child, my everything. You are the only light in my dark world. You don't know how helpless I am without you. Duryodhana, why do you keep hurting me like this?"

As the conversation ended, the air was filled with a tense silence, broken only by the soft strains of music that seemed to underscore the unresolved conflict between father and son. "Son, your wishes will be fulfilled. Please calm down," Dhritarashtra finally said, his voice a mixture of resignation and hope.

With the king's reluctant blessing, Vidura set off with King Dhritarashtra's message, his heart heavy with the knowledge of the turmoil brewing within the palace walls.

Vidura's chariot rolled swiftly towards Indraprastha, the majestic city gleaming under the sun. As he arrived at Yudhishthira's palace, which shone like the court of Kubera, the god of wealth, Vidura pushed aside any admiration. He hurried to stand before Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas.

"Yudhishthira, I offer my respects," Vidura greeted, bowing slightly.

Yudhishthira gestured for him to sit, concern etched on his face. "Please take a seat. You came so suddenly without any news, and you look worried. Is everything alright?"

Vidura nodded, trying to reassure him. "Yes, my child, everything is fine. Is the old king of Hastinapur and his family well? Are his hundred sons and subjects still loyal to him?"

"Yes, my son," Vidura replied, "King Dhritarashtra is well. His sons and the people of the kingdom all follow his orders. So, what is troubling you, Khulata?"

Vidura took a deep breath, preparing to deliver the message. "Listen, Yudhishthira, I have come to you as a messenger from King Dhritarashtra of Hastinapur with a special message. He has sent word that they have built a special hall in Hastinapur, just as beautiful as yours. You should come to Hastinapur, see the hall, and enjoy it. Sit with your brothers and play dice like friends. We will be happy to see that. Skilled dice players have been brought for your enjoyment. Come with your family to Hastinapur and join the dice game. I have come with this order from King Dhritarashtra, Yudhishthira. Now, you should do what you think is right."

Yudhishthira looked thoughtful, his brow furrowed with concern. "But playing dice is not fair, Khulata. It can cause disagreements with relatives and create divisions among us. What do you say about this? We all look to you for guidance."

Vidura paused, the weight of his responsibility heavy upon him, knowing that the path ahead was fraught with peril and uncertainty.

Chapter 7: The Call of Destiny

Vidura stood in the dimly lit hall, his voice steady but laced with a hint of resignation. "I know that dice games can lead to trouble, Yudhishthira," he said, his eyes meeting Yudhishthira's with a grave sincerity. "I have warned the king many times about this. I even tried to stop this plan. But the king sent me to you anyway. Yudhishthira, now you should do what you think is right."

Yudhishthira sighed deeply, the weight of his duty pressing down on him. "Khulata," he began thoughtfully, "I have a question for you. Besides the 100 Kauravas, are there any other skilled dice players present there? Please tell me."

Vidura nodded, understanding the implications of the question. "Yes, Prince Shakuni of Gandhara, King Vibhishana, Chitrasena, Satyavrata, Purumitra, and Jay are all there, Yudhishthira," he replied.

Yudhishthira's expression turned contemplative. "I see," he murmured, "the most patient and cunning dice players have gathered. It seems like the will of fate. Even the creator has made this world subject to destiny."

He paused, his resolve hardening. "Khulata, I cannot disobey King Dhritarashtra's order. Since he has called me, I must go. But let me tell you the truth, I am not interested in playing dice at all. Yet, it is the king's order, so what can I do? If someone calls me, I never refuse, that is my lifelong vow. But unless the king himself asks me to play with Shakuni, I will not play."

That night, Vidura stayed in Indraprastha, the air thick with unspoken worries. The next day, Yudhishthira gave orders to prepare for the journey to Hastinapur at the appointed time, taking Draupadi and other family members with him.

As the Pandavas set off on their chariots with Vidura towards Hastinapur, the wheels clattering against the earth, Yudhishthira turned to Vidura and spoke with a somber tone. "Khulata, just as a bright light can take away a person's sight, fate can take away a person's wisdom. People become like captives to their own destiny."

Vidura glanced at Yudhishthira, his voice gentle yet firm. "Yudhishthira, my son, you are wise and patient. What more can I tell you? I am just a messenger of King Dhritarashtra. I am here only to deliver his message and cannot discuss anything else."

Understanding Vidura's advice, Yudhishthira remained silent. However, he probably didn't misinterpret the signs of fate. Even though he didn't want to play the dice game, he had to come to Hastinapur. Was Yudhishthira preparing himself for what destiny held? Only time would tell.

In the grand game hall, the tension was palpable. A tense exchange began between Shakuni and Yudhishthira, the air crackling with anticipation. Tricked by Shakuni's cunning words, Yudhishthira found himself drawn into the game. The dice rolled, sealing his fate with each turn. He lost his precious jewels and kingdom, leaving him with nothing. His family was all he had left. What would happen next? The story would continue, and destiny's hand would soon reveal its next move.