Mahabharata in Prose – Part 44 (continued)
( A story of Dvapar Yuga based upon the Odiya Sarala Mahabharata) by Lokanath Mishra, Jenamath Lane, Puri
The day of departure arrived.
The citizens of Indraprastha wept openly as they watched their beloved rulers leave the city. Yudhishthira walked ahead, clad in simple garments, his royal ornaments cast aside. Behind him followed Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva, along with Draupadi.
They crossed the boundaries of their kingdom and entered the forest, leaving behind the comforts of palace life for the कठोर reality of exile.
In the forest, life was harsh. The heat of the sun, the cold of the night, and the uncertainty of each day tested them. Yet, their unity remained unbroken.
Seeing their suffering, many sages visited them, offering guidance and solace. Among them were great ऋषि who reminded Yudhishthira that exile was not merely punishment, but an opportunity for spiritual growth.
Still, one concern troubled Yudhishthira deeply—how to provide for the many ब्राह्मण and followers who had accompanied them into exile.
Moved by his sincerity, he prayed to the सूर्य देव. Pleased with his devotion, the Sun granted him the Akshaya Patra—a divine vessel that would provide unlimited food each day until Draupadi had eaten.
With this blessing, their immediate hardship was eased.
Meanwhile, far away, Krishna came to know of their condition. He visited them in the forest, offering comfort and assurance.
“Time will turn,” he said. “Dharma cannot remain oppressed forever.”
His words became a source of strength for the Pandavas.
Thus, amidst suffering, the seeds of resilience began to grow.
(Continued in Part 45…)
⸻