Chapter 1: The Royal Sacrifice

The air was filled with an air of anticipation, and a sense of purpose hung over the kingdom of Indraprastha. Yudhishthira, the wise and just king, stood resolute, his eyes reflecting a mix of determination and righteousness. He turned to his brothers, the Pandavas, and spoke with a firm voice. "Well, if you can't do it, I'll answer him myself," Yudhishthira declared, his gaze steady. "Who are you talking to?"

The atmosphere was tense, the time for action drawing near. Yudhishthira continued, "It seems the time is almost here. But you all saw how much he insulted me today. So, I want to send you and the Pandavas to the gathering place together. Come, Janardhana," he beckoned, addressing Krishna with respect and camaraderie, "let's fight. I will strike down the kings who cannot tolerate this ceremony."

The Mahabharata, an eternal epic penned by the great sage Vyasa, had been translated into Bengali by illustrious scholars like Haridas Siddhanta Bagish, Kaliprasanna Singha, and Rajshekhar Basu. Drawing upon these translations and traditional tales, a simple version of the Mahabharata play was being presented by Astral Entertainment.

In the grand narrative, Sage Narada had advised Yudhishthira to perform a royal sacrifice, a significant and auspicious ceremony. The main obstacle to this grand event was the formidable Jarasandha. However, with Krishna's clever plan, Bhima had managed to defeat Jarasandha. With this victory, there was no shortage of wealth in Indraprastha. The four Pandavas then set out to conquer the north, south, east, and west, bringing back abundant taxes and gifts to Yudhishthira.

Seeing this great wealth, Yudhishthira's well-wishing friends encouraged him to start the royal sacrifice. "King Yudhishthira," they exclaimed, "you are the best in wealth, strength, righteousness, and people. From the far north of the Himalayas to the southern island of Lanka, everyone acknowledges your greatness. They willingly pay you tribute. This is the perfect time, King, to begin the grand royal sacrifice."

"I was thinking the same thing," said Mitra Anushehadeva, nodding in agreement. "Give the order, King. Gather the materials for the ceremony as the Brahmins have instructed, brother."

Yudhishthira smiled, a plan already forming in his mind. "That work is already done. Once the auspicious day is announced, the altar will be built. Krishna has arrived, Sahadeva, can you hear? Go, brother, and welcome Vasudeva."

"Brother Nakula is already with Vasudeva, King," Sahadeva replied eagerly. "I'm going right now too."

"Long live the King, all is well, O King," came the voices of the people. "Where Krishna is, there is complete well-being. Come, Vasudeva, come. We cannot start the royal sacrifice without your permission. Give me your blessing, Vasudeva, so I can prepare for the ceremony with my brothers. Or you yourself begin this ceremony for the welfare of all, Vasudeva. There is no better leader for this sacrifice than you in this world."

Krishna, ever humble, replied, "You are the elder brother. The royal sacrifice suits you well. You are fit to be a great emperor. I am just your servant. Whatever task you give me, I will do it, my king. With your permission, I am asking the great sage Vyasa to kindly take charge of this sacrifice. Oh wise sage, oh great Vyasa, please become the priest of this kingdom and help King Yudhishthira complete the royal sacrifice. Please bless us."

Vyasa, with a gentle smile, responded, "Son Yudhishthira, your wishes have come true. Son, look at these wise Brahmins with me, they are all sages and great souls. Together, they will mark your kingdom and the place for the sacrifice."

Yudhishthira bowed deeply, showing respect. "Son, bow to the great sage Vyasa. Accept the blessings of the great Lord Vyasa. King Yudhishthira, allow the sage to guide you. According to the scriptures, these sages are marking the place for your sacrifice. Order your artists to build beautiful structures around this sacred land."

"Your orders are respected, great sage," Yudhishthira replied with reverence. The wise sage Dhaumya and his disciples gathered to discuss and analyze the scriptures. After a long discussion, they began to determine the place for Yudhishthira’s kingdom and the sacrifice. Then, with great celebration, the construction of many large buildings for the royal guests began.

Chapter 2: The Grand Gathering

As the preparations for the grand sacrifice continued, Yudhishthira knew that such a monumental event required the presence of rulers and dignitaries from all corners of the land. With this in mind, he sent out invitations far and wide, ensuring that all kings, Brahmins, merchants, and workers were welcomed to Indraprastha.

One day, as the sun cast a golden glow over the bustling city, Yudhishthira called his brother Nakula to his side. "Dear Nakula," he began with a gentle smile, "I need you to take the chariot and travel to Hastinapura. Invite our revered Grandfather Dhritarashtra, Teacher Dronacharya, our Family Guru Kripacharya, Vidura, and the Kaurava brothers, including Duryodhana. Extend our respect and ask them to join us in Indraprastha. Also, do not forget to invite the friends and allies of the Kauravas."

Nakula nodded, understanding the importance of his task. "As you wish, my king," he replied with a bow, setting off on his journey with haste and purpose.

Soon, the roads leading to Indraprastha were filled with the sound of chariots and the sight of colorful processions. Kings and warriors from distant lands arrived, each bringing their own retinues and gifts. Among them were Karna and the Kaurava allies, along with Duryodhana, Dushasana, and their brothers. They came to witness the spectacle of Yudhishthira’s sacrifice. Esteemed figures like King Subala of Gandhara, Prince Shakuni, King Bhagadatta, King Shalya, Shishupala, and Jayadratha also graced the occasion with their presence.

The atmosphere was electric with excitement as Balarama led the Yadava kings, princes, and warriors into the city. Indraprastha was alive with dance, music, and the aroma of sumptuous feasts. Treasures were exchanged as gifts, each contribution aimed at supporting the grand event.

Amidst the joyous celebrations, Yudhishthira, accompanied by his brothers Nakula and Sahadeva, approached the wise Bhishma, Kripa, and Vidura. With deep reverence, he bowed before them. "O greatest teachers," he said humbly, "please accept the greetings of your servant Yudhishthira. May you live long, and may my grand sacrifice be successful. I offer all the wealth and splendor of my kingdom for your service. Please consider me your servant and command me as you wish."

Bhishma, with a kind smile, responded, "Dear Yudhishthira, no one can complete this great task alone. You must assign responsibilities based on importance and interest to ensure the success of your sacrifice."

Taking these wise words to heart, Yudhishthira began to delegate duties. Ashwatthama was entrusted with the task of welcoming the Brahmins, while Sanjaya was given another important role. Kripacharya took charge of serving the kings, managing the distribution of wealth and gifts. Vidura was tasked with overseeing the expenses, ensuring everything ran smoothly. Dushasana handled the arrangements for food and water, and Duryodhana took on the responsibility of managing gifts and donations. To honor Dhritarashtra, Yudhishthira appointed him as the chief of the sacrificial grounds.

In this bustling scene, Yudhishthira made it clear that Bhishma and Dronacharya would have the final say on all decisions regarding the event’s tasks and their significance. With everyone assigned their duties, Yudhishthira turned to Krishna, who stood nearby with a serene expression.

"Keshava," Yudhishthira said, "I can't decide which task suits you best."

Krishna, with a gentle smile, replied, "O King, I have chosen a task myself, and now I await your approval."

Curious, Yudhishthira asked, "Just tell me, Keshava, what responsibility do you wish to take?"

"O King," Krishna said, "I will wash the feet of all the Brahmins arriving at the entrance. Please do not deny me this chance to earn merit."

Yudhishthira, touched by Krishna’s humility, nodded. "O King, I cannot deny your wish, Keshava. So be it."

As the grand sacrifice commenced, the sacred ground was filled with the presence of great sages like Brahmarshi Jajna, Rishi Dhaumya, and others. Krishna Dvaipayana Vyasa himself took his seat at the altar. The air resonated with the chanting of mantras, hymns, and the sacred rituals that marked the culmination of the sacrifice. Countless gold coins, cows, and valuable gifts were offered to the Brahmins, as well as appropriate gifts for all other groups, in accordance with tradition.

Finally, the long-awaited day of the coronation arrived. At the end of the Rajasuya sacrifice, Maharaja Yudhishthira was to be crowned as the emperor. The sacrificial ground shone brightly with the presence of devoted Brahmins and sages. Their collective chanting of mantras and Vedic recitations made the place shine like the heavenly assembly of Lord Brahma. The colorful presence of countless Kshatriya kings left the princesses of Hastinapura in awe.

Chapter 3: The Gift of Honor

The day of the grand coronation ceremony had finally arrived, and the air was filled with excitement and reverence. The sacrificial ground was a dazzling sight, alive with the colorful presence of countless Kshatriya kings and the sacred chanting of mantras by devoted Brahmins and sages. It seemed as though the heavenly assembly of Lord Brahma had descended upon the earth.

Amidst this majestic gathering, the wise sage Narada entered, his presence commanding respect. King Yudhishthira, with a warm smile, approached him. "Sage Narada, please accept my respects. I offer you my heartfelt greetings," he said, bowing slightly.

Narada smiled back, his eyes twinkling with ancient wisdom. "May everyone be happy and blessed," he replied, taking his seat among the illustrious assembly. As he glanced around at the warriors present, a thoughtful look crossed his face. He remembered the words of the creator Narayana, who had once foretold that these mighty warriors would eventually return to heaven after defeating one another. The time seemed near, for Narayana himself was among them, destined to bring about their end. "Narayana, Narayana," Narada whispered to himself, the truth as clear as daylight.

After the ceremony, Bhishma, the venerable son of the Ganges, called upon Yudhishthira. "King Yudhishthira," he began, his voice deep and steady, "prepare to honor the most deserving. There are six types of people worthy of worship: the teacher, the priest, the scholar, the householder, the king, and the true friend. It's rare to have all six together, but today they have gathered to bless you. You can offer them gifts. If you wish to give only one gift, there is a way to choose. Please tell me that way, Grandfather."

Yudhishthira nodded, listening intently. "King, among these six, you can choose the best person to honor. That gift will be meaningful," Bhishma continued. "Grandfather, in this assembly, every guest is the best in their field. I don't have the courage to choose the greatest among them. If I must give a gift to one, whom should it be? Please tell me."

"King Yudhishthira," Bhishma replied, a gentle smile playing on his lips, "the greatest person is right before your eyes. Just as the sun lights up the darkest places, Vasudeva Krishna lights up your assembly. In strength, power, and valor, Krishna is the greatest among all present. Offer your gift to him."

Yudhishthira's face brightened with understanding. "Grandfather, as you command. I will give the main gift of this royal ceremony to Vasudeva. Sahadeva, on behalf of King Yudhishthira, offer the gift to Vasudeva."

Sahadeva stepped forward, his voice filled with respect. "Your command is my honor, Grandfather. O Vasudeva, O Keshava, please accept this gift from King Yudhishthira. I am grateful to offer it to you."

Krishna accepted the gift with graciousness. "I am pleased to accept your gift, Sahadeva. You have my congratulations."

But not everyone was pleased. King Shishupal of Chedi, his voice sharp with disapproval, challenged Yudhishthira. "Yudhishthira, what have you done? Why did you make this mistake at the end of such a great ceremony?"

Yudhishthira turned to him, puzzled. "Did I do something wrong? Please tell me, honorable King Shishupal of Chedi."

Shishupal's eyes flashed with anger. "Only a king deserves the offering in this royal ceremony. Today, you gave it to Krishna, but he is not a king. How can he receive your worship? I cannot support your decision, Yudhishthira. This is the biggest mistake of the Pandavas. Is it really a mistake, or did you do it on purpose, Yudhishthira?"

Yudhishthira, maintaining his calm, replied, "Forgive me, King of Chedi. Grandfather, I followed the world's wishes. Besides, I believe Krishna is worthy in every way."

Shishupal scoffed, his voice dripping with disdain. "Oh, Grandfather, you have grown old and your wisdom seems clouded. You might not even realize what you're saying. And you young ones, you are just boys. He has led you astray, and you have made this big mistake by listening to him. The world praises you as righteous, but they do not know your true self. There is no one more unrighteous than you."

Arjuna, his eyes blazing with anger, stepped forward. But Yudhishthira quickly intervened, placing a calming hand on his brother's shoulder. "Arjuna, whom are you speaking to like this? He is our honorable guest. Do not speak to him that way. Calm down, brother."

Arjuna clenched his fists, his voice a low growl. "You do not know how selfish the world can be. It calls its desires principles and righteousness. If you think Krishna deserves worship, remember his father Vasudeva is present here. He should receive the honor."

Shishupal continued, undeterred. "Do you Pandavas consider Krishna your dearest friend? Then what wrong did King Drupada do? He also wishes well for the Pandavas, perhaps even more than Krishna. King, maybe you do not know that... Oh, I do not know, but your grandfather knows everything, right? I am amazed at your wisdom, Yudhishthira. If you worship Krishna as a teacher, did you forget your royal teacher Drona? Guru Drona himself is present here; how can Krishna take away his honor?"

The tension in the air was palpable, the assembly holding its breath as the debate unfolded. But Yudhishthira, with the wisdom of a true leader, remained calm, ready to face the challenges ahead.

Chapter 4: The Storm Before the Coronation

The grand hall was filled with murmurs, the assembly hanging on every word as the tension grew with each passing moment. Yudhishthira stood resolute, his calm demeanor a testament to his leadership, even as the storm of accusations swirled around him.

"Yes, yes, that is true," Shishupal's voice rang out, dripping with sarcasm. "Guru Drona is here, along with Kripacharya. So what did Bhishma do? See, Yudhishthira, even your guests do not support this action. Krishna is neither a teacher nor a king, not even a priest. Sage Vyasa is present in the assembly; can anyone else be a priest over him?"

Yudhishthira listened patiently, his eyes steady and unyielding. Shishupal continued, his voice rising with each word. "Well, the world may be confused, but you know, Yudhishthira. Your grandfather has the blessing to choose the time of his death, a fortune no one else has. Worshiping him would not have been wrong. The master of all weapons, Ashwatthama, the great King Jayadratha, even the mighty Duryodhana stood before you. And Karna, the favorite student of Parashurama, did you not see him, Yudhishthira?"

In the background, whispers of agreement and dissent filled the air. Arjuna, unable to contain himself any longer, turned to Krishna. "What is Shishupal saying, Krishna? Are you just going to sit quietly and listen? Won’t you say anything back?"

Krishna, serene and composed, placed a reassuring hand on Arjuna's shoulder. "Calm down, brother. When elders like Bhishma, Dronacharya, and Kripacharya are present, there’s no need for unnecessary arguments. Shishupal is just saying a few words; he’s not doing anything else. He hasn’t used any weapons in this gathering."

But Arjuna was not satisfied. "No, Krishna, no. I can’t accept this as easily as you do. Will Shishupal get away with insulting you like this? Never, never. I will handle him myself..."

Krishna's eyes twinkled with patience. "Hey, hey, what are you doing, elder brother? Shishupal is insulting not just me, but everyone in this assembly. He’s not sparing even the wise Bhishma or King Yudhishthira. So why should I see my insult as the biggest one?"

Arjuna's frustration was palpable. "Then why aren’t you protesting, Krishna? Why won’t you stop him when such a big injustice is happening right in front of you?"

Krishna's voice was calm as he replied, "The time hasn’t come yet, elder. Have you forgotten the promise I made to Shishupal’s mother? In trying to insult Krishna, King Shishupal is actually insulting Bhishma, the son of Ganga, the most. And also Yudhishthira, the son of Dharma."

Nearby, Sage Vyasa, silent until now, spoke with a voice that commanded respect. "He’s spreading lies. Yes, I, Krishna Dwaipayana Vyasa, am also sitting in that assembly, watching Shishupal’s actions, but I’m not saying anything. Even though Bhishma, Yudhishthira, and the other Pandavas are eager to speak up sometimes, I remain completely silent. Why? It’s about timing. I cannot ignore the time that Krishna himself is waiting for. I am also counting the moments for that time. No one can rush or delay destiny. In the endless flow of time, small bubbles rise and fall, then disappear into infinity."

As the assembly listened, the gravity of Vyasa's words settled over them. Just before Yudhishthira’s grand coronation, Shishupal was creating a storm of bad omens. Despite Balram’s orders, Krishna hadn’t disciplined him yet. Now, Shishupal was trying to rally the other kings present to support his views, attempting to stir up conflict around this sacred ceremony.

Shishupal addressed the gathered rulers, his voice a mix of challenge and persuasion. "To all the kings and rulers gathered here, I have a question. You all paid tribute for this ceremony, right?"

The kings nodded, their voices a chorus of agreement. "Yes, yes, we did. We all contributed to your ceremony, Yudhishthira."

Shishupal sneered, "Do you know why? It wasn’t out of fear, persuasion, or any selfish reason. You are the son of Dharma, establishing a kingdom of righteousness. You will be the emperor of that kingdom. We paid tribute to help establish that kingdom of righteousness, Yudhishthira."

He paused, letting his words sink in before delivering his final blow. "But now I see that accepting your invitation was a mistake. Worshiping Krishna is actually an insult to kings. Your title of 'righteous' is nothing but a joke. Yudhishthira, the son of Dharma, is accepted by the whole world as virtuous. All the kings, both senior and junior, respect him. What you said about being righteous today will have consequences for you, King Shishupala."

Arjuna, his eyes blazing, turned to Krishna again. "Arjuna, can't you see the wrong your elder brother has done? Is it truly righteous to honor Krishna, who unfairly killed Jarasandha like a coward? Krishna, who was raised on Kansa's food, did not hesitate to kill him. How grateful is Yudhishthira to honor such a person?"

As the assembly watched, the tension crackled like a summer storm, the future uncertain and fraught with the potential for conflict.

Chapter 5: The Unyielding Assembly

Shishupala's voice rang out, slicing through the heavy tension in the assembly hall. "I've heard enough of your complaints," he spat, his eyes narrowing on Krishna. "Stop now, if you want to be safe. Ask Krishna for forgiveness."

A murmur rippled through the gathered kings, but Shishupala continued, undeterred. "Forgiveness? From Krishna? He is nothing but a thief, not even a king, yet he steals the rights of kings. Krishna and Yudhishthira may have made a mistake, misled by the world. But you?" He pointed accusingly at the assembly. "Why did you let it happen?"

The air was thick with anticipation as he turned back to Krishna, his voice dripping with disdain. "Krishna, don't you know you have no glory of your own? Are you so greedy? Like a dog that boasts when it finds ghee, you too have become proud. You take others' share and feel accomplished, just like Yudhishthira and this Krishna."

Shishupala paused, his chest heaving with the force of his words. "How can you be different? I have learned your true nature. There is no need for me to stay here. I will leave immediately."

With that declaration, King Shishupala turned on his heel, ready to depart the assembly with the support of the kings behind him. But before he could take another step, Yudhishthira, without a word to his brothers, rose and approached him. His voice was calm, yet firm, as he sought to quell the storm of Shishupala's pride and anger.

"King of Chedi," Yudhishthira began, his tone gentle, "you did not speak like a king. Speaking harsh and wrong words is a sin. Why would you commit such a sin? Everyone knows that the great Bhishma is the most righteous on earth. How can you say he doesn't understand righteousness? You cannot insult the wise Bhishma like this."

Yudhishthira gestured to the assembly, his gaze sweeping across the gathered kings. "If the elder kings in this assembly have no objection to Krishna's worship, why do you? You do not know Krishna as the world does. King of Chedi, behaving like this without knowing everything does not suit you."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing, "Gentleness is not suitable everywhere. If someone objects to worshiping Krishna, do not speak sweetly to them. Krishna, who is the greatest among all and the supporter of this entire world, deserves everyone's worship. Krishna's qualities, wealth, and power have no end. That is why, even though there are many elder kings here, I have reserved the highest honor for Krishna."

The assembly listened intently as Yudhishthira spoke of Krishna's virtues. "Krishna has not only defeated warrior kings in battle, but he also knows everything about the past, present, and future. He is present everywhere in the world. I have served many wise elders to hear about all of Krishna's deeds. In the world of humans, there is no one greater than Kesava. If Shishupala thinks worshiping Krishna is wrong, let him do as he wishes, do not stop him."

As Yudhishthira's words echoed in the hall, Bhishma, the son of Ganga, rose from his seat, his face flushed with emotion. He walked back to his seat with a firm step, and the seriousness of the assembly seemed to increase a hundredfold.

Then, Sahadeva stepped forward, holding a worship plate in hand. His voice boomed through the hall, deep and thunderous. "I will worship the mighty Kesava, the slayer of Kesi. I will kick the heads of those kings who cannot tolerate this worship. If they wish to fight, I will send them one by one to the abode of death. And the wise and knowledgeable kings will surely approve of this worship. Is there any king who wishes to fight me now?"

A hushed silence fell over the assembly as Sahadeva's bold challenge hung in the air. No king dared oppose him. Suddenly, flowers began to rain down on Sahadeva's head from the heavens, and great sages praised him for his courage.

Rising from his seat, the sage Narada spoke, his voice ringing with authority. "Prince Sahadeva, know that those who do not worship Krishna are as good as dead in this world. Never associate with them."

With Narada's blessing, Sahadeva began the worship of the worthy individuals in King Yudhishthira's assembly. He touched the feet of the elders one by one, finally beginning the worship of Vasudeva Sri Krishna, the most deserving of all. "Om Namo Jagatpate Namah, Om Namo."

"Vasudevaya Namah. Om Namo Govindaya Namah," he chanted, his voice filled with reverence.

But even as the sacred ritual unfolded, Shishupala's anger burned hotter than ever. His face flushed with rage, he stepped forward and addressed the assembly of kings. "O kings, do you still remain silent after seeing this wrongdoing? The youngest Pandava, Sahadeva, has insulted all of you, and you will not respond appropriately? I am ready to be your commander. Why are we not declaring war together? I want to see the end of Yudhishthira and his brothers. Krishna's dominance will end now."

The assembly held its breath, the tension rising once more as Shishupala's words echoed in the grand hall.

Chapter 6: The Reckoning of Shishupala

The hall was filled with murmurs of agreement as Shishupala's words lingered in the air. A chorus of voices rose in support.

"Yes, yes, Shishupala is right," one king declared, his voice carrying over the assembly. "Sahadeva has insulted us all, and we must respond to that insult. They are worshiping Krishna and treating us with such contempt after inviting us here! Let the combined royal power attack Yudhishthira."

Yudhishthira stood amidst the tension, his heart heavy with the weight of the situation. He turned to Bhishma, his grandfather, seeking guidance. "Grandfather, if the kings of Aryavarta decide to unite and attack, Indraprastha will be in great danger," he said, his voice low and urgent. "The people here are unarmed and busy celebrating. If an attack happens now, there will be a lot of damage. What should I do for the welfare of the people? I am confused. Please guide me, Grandfather."

Bhishma, with a reassuring smile, placed a comforting hand on Yudhishthira's shoulder. "Yudhishthira, my child, do not be afraid," he said gently. "Shishupala's time to meet Krishna has come, so he is acting foolishly. As long as the mighty Krishna is here, these kings will continue to behave like insects. When Krishna awakens his true power, these foolish kings will run into the lion's mouth like mice."

Shishupala, his eyes blazing with defiance, sneered at Bhishma. "Oh, foolish Vishva, just like you!" he spat, his voice dripping with contempt. "You are a senseless fool, and your mind is lost. You compare a mouse like Vishva to a lion and scare the kings. You are blind, and just as the Kauravas blindly follow you, they are following you into darkness. Amazing!"

He turned his glare to Krishna, his words venomous. "Krishna is just a cowherd, you see, a cowherd! He has no qualities. Moreover, he has done things forbidden in the scriptures. He has killed his protector and harmed women, and yet you talk about worshipping him? You are a liar, Vishva, a liar! You are a hypocrite and a coward. That's why you never married. I see, you wear the mask of righteousness but do wrong."

Bhima, fists clenched in anger, stepped forward. "Shishupala, if you say one more word, I will crush you here," he warned, his voice a low growl. "Stop now. He is heading towards his own end. Shishupala was born with three eyes and four arms. He screamed like a donkey at birth. His mother, Krishna's aunt, wanted to abandon such a strange child. But a prophecy said that this child would not die until the person who causes his extra eye and arms to fall off touches him, and that person will also be his end."

Bhima paused for a moment, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. "When Krishna touched Shishupala, his extra arms and eye fell off. After that, Shishupala's mother begged Krishna to forgive her son's offenses. Krishna promised to forgive 100 of Shishupala's mistakes. It seems that number is about to be reached."

Shishupala's voice rose again, defiant and unyielding. "Don't show your foolishness. You think you are alive because of Krishna's mercy. Right now, I challenge Krishna to a battle. Krishna, if you have the courage, come and fight me. I want to send you and the Pandavas to the afterlife together. Come, Janardana, and fight."

Krishna, calm and composed, addressed the assembly. "I want to say something to all the kings present here. We, the Yadavas, have not harmed Shishupala in any way. Shishupala is my relative, yet he took advantage of our absence to set fire to Dwaraka and killed the king's companions. Not only that, this wicked person also stole my father's horse meant for the Ashwamedha Yagna. He even dared to ask for Rukmini's hand without understanding his own worth. I tolerated him for my father's sake, but today you have all seen how much he insulted me."

Shishupala laughed mockingly. "You had no shame in saying in front of everyone that my wife Rukmini could have been yours. But why would you be ashamed? I know all about your thoughts and understanding. Listen, Krishna, whether you forgive me or not, it doesn't matter to me because you can't harm me."

Krishna's patience had reached its limit. "Stop, Shishu, don't say another word," he warned, his voice steady. "What will you do? What can you do?"

With a swift, commanding gesture, Krishna called upon his divine weapon. "Sudarshan!" he commanded, and the Sudarshan Chakra appeared, spinning brilliantly in the grand assembly. The kings watched in awe as the chakra, like a blazing sun, moved swiftly towards Shishupala.

Despite his attempts to evade it, Shishupala could not escape his fate. The Sudarshan Chakra, with a swift and decisive arc, separated the arrogant warrior's head from his body. The hall fell silent, some kings stunned in disbelief, while others began to praise Krishna for his divine justice.

Thus, the prophecy was fulfilled, and the assembly witnessed the power of Krishna, the protector of dharma.

Chapter 7: The Aftermath of the Rajasuya

As the dust settled in the grand hall, Yudhishthira, the newly crowned emperor, stood amidst the echoes of Krishna's divine justice. He turned to his brothers with a solemn expression. "We must honor the fallen," he instructed gently. "Quickly perform the last rites for the brave Shishupala and cleanse the sacrificial site."

With a nod, his brothers set to work, ensuring that the rites were performed with the utmost respect. Meanwhile, Shishupala's son was declared the new King of Chedi, a mantle passed on amidst the somber air of the ceremony. With these duties fulfilled, the Rajasuya Yagna reached its glorious conclusion, crowning Yudhishthira as the emperor.

Throughout the ceremony, Yudhishthira remained vigilant. He personally guarded the sacred grounds with his chakra, mace, and bow and arrows, ensuring the sanctity of the event until its very end. As the yagna concluded, the kings who had gathered from far and wide began to depart, their voices raised in chants of victory for Emperor Yudhishthira.

In the quiet aftermath, Krishna approached Yudhishthira to bid him farewell. "Your Majesty," Krishna said with a warm smile, "please allow me to return to Dwaraka now."

Yudhishthira's eyes were filled with gratitude. "Krishna, it is because of your grace that this yagna was successful. It is because of your favor that I stand as emperor today. How can I let you go, Keshav? You are the sun of Indraprastha, but I know you must return to Dwaraka. How can I hold you back, Krishna?"

Krishna's expression was serene as he replied, "Your Majesty, now is the time for your joy. This is not the time for such proposals. You must carefully protect your subjects, Your Majesty. Just as all creatures take shelter in the clouds and the gods rely on Indra, let your subjects and friends find refuge in you. Become the support for everyone, Your Majesty. Establish a righteous kingdom, which is Yudhishthira's duty."

With those words of wisdom, Krishna set out on the road to Dwarka. His parting advice about relationships and governance lingered in the air, leaving the Pandavas with a deep sense of peace and purpose. Yet, beneath this tranquility, Yudhishthira felt a subtle unease, as if a storm loomed beyond the horizon.

After the guests had departed and the echoes of the celebration had faded, I, Krishna Dvaipayana Vyasa, approached Yudhishthira. He greeted me with a question that revealed his inner turmoil. I could see the worry etched in his eyes, and I knew I had to tell him the harsh truth. Whether he could bear it, only time would reveal.

Meanwhile, in the shadows of his mind, Duryodhana was consumed with envy at the wealth of Indraprastha and the success of the Pandavas. It wasn't long before Shakuni, ever the schemer, devised a plan to put the Pandavas in danger. King Dhritarashtra, unaware of the brewing storm, invited Yudhishthira to play a game of dice.

But that, dear reader, is a tale for another time.