Sahadeva , 'Maharaja! Just by giving up your possessions, you will not attain bliss. You may or may not attain perfection by giving up your desire and anger within you! But, you will be happy by ruling the kingdom without self-interest. It is also dharma. If you go and live in the forest, it is possible that you may keep thinking of things which you gave up, this state of mind will result only in death. I do not know if I am right! But, I have told you what I feel with utmost devotion.'
Yudhisthira does not react to the opinions expressed by his brothers in their attempt to change his
mind. Draupadi then looks at her quiet husband, "Maharaja! Your brothers are eagerly waiting
for your reply. Make them happy with a suitable reply. While we were in Dvaithavana, looking
at the difficult time they had in the forest, constantly facing rains, wind and the hot sun, you
had said, 'We will kill Duryodhna and his warriors, get our kingdom back and enjoy its wealth.
While you are now suffering in our vanavasa, good times are waiting for us!' Why are you hurting
us now?'
'Kauravas gave up dharma and turned wicked. There was no sin in killing them! You did
not get the kingdom easily. It was not gifted to you! You fought heroes like Drona, Kripa
and Karna and killed them to achieve this. What is wrong in enjoying such an achievement?
Your brothers, strong like the elephants and bulls, are like the devatas. Look at them and
feel happy, and make them happy. Stop worrying, rule the kingdom with dharma.'
As I keep at it, Shantiparva reminds me of the panel discussions on TV channels. The discussions go on endlessly! Only reason it is stopped is to make room for the advertisements! Anyway Draupadi has spoken and Yudhisthira now has to decide or take a call, as it is said in to-days lingo! |
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