Chapter 25: Duryodhana and Dhṛtarāṣṭra conspire to remove the Pāṇḍavas; the plot at Vāraṇāvata is set in motion to burn them alive.
vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
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prāṇādhikaṁ bhīmasēnaṁ kr̥tavidyaṁ dhanañjayam । duryōdhanō lakṣayitva paryatapyata durmatiḥ ॥BORI: 1-129-1॥
Seeing that Bhimasena was dearer than life itself and that Dhananjaya had mastered his training, the wicked-minded Duryodhana was deeply distressed. (BORI: 1-129-1)
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tatō vaikartanaḥ karṇaḥ śakuniścāpi saubalaḥ । anēkairabhyupāyaistāñjighāṁsanti sma pāṇḍavān ॥BORI: 1-129-2॥
Then Karṇa, son of Vikartana, and Śakuni, son of Subala, sought by many means to kill the Pāṇḍavas. (BORI: 1-129-2)
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pāṇḍavāścāpi tatsarvaṁ pratyajānannariṁdamāḥ । udbhāvanamakurvantō vidurasya matē sthitāḥ ॥BORI: 1-129-3॥
The Pandavas, those subduers of foes, were fully aware of all this, but gave no sign of it and followed Vidura’s counsel. (BORI: 1-129-3)
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guṇaiḥ samuditāndr̥ṣṭvā paurāḥ pāṇḍusutāṁstadā । kathayanti sma sambhūya catvarēṣu sabhāsu ca ॥BORI: 1-129-4॥
Seeing that the sons of Pandu were endowed with virtues, the townspeople gathered at crossroads and in assembly halls and spoke among themselves: (BORI: 1-129-4)
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prajñācakṣuracakṣuṣṭvāddhr̥tarāṣṭrō janēśvaraḥ । rājyamaprāptavānpūrvaṁ sa kathaṁ nr̥patirbhavēt ॥BORI: 1-129-5॥
Dhritarashtra, the lord of the people, though endowed with the eye of wisdom, did not obtain the kingdom before because he was blind. How, then, could he become king? (BORI: 1-129-5)
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tathā bhīṣmaḥ śāntanavaḥ satyasandhō mahāvrataḥ । pratyākhyāya purā rājyaṁ nādya jātu grahīṣyati ॥BORI: 1-129-6॥
Likewise Bhishma, son of Shantanu, true to his word and firm in his great vow, renounced the kingdom long ago and will never accept it now. (BORI: 1-129-6)
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tē vayaṁ pāṇḍavaṁ jyēṣṭhaṁ taruṇaṁ vr̥ddhaśīlinam । abhiṣiñcāma sādhvadya satyaṁ karuṇavēdinam ॥BORI: 1-129-7॥
Let us therefore duly consecrate today the eldest Pandava, young but mature in conduct, truthful and compassionate. (BORI: 1-129-7)
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sa hi bhīṣmaṁ śāntanavaṁ dhr̥tarāṣṭraṁ ca dharmavit । saputraṁ vividhairbhōgairyōjayiṣyati pūjayan ॥BORI: 1-129-8॥
For that knower of dharma will honor Bhishma, son of Shantanu, and Dhritarashtra with his sons, providing them with various enjoyments. (BORI: 1-129-8)
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tēṣāṁ duryōdhanaḥ śrutvā tāni vākyāni bhāṣatām । yudhiṣṭhirānuraktānāṁ paryatapyata durmatiḥ ॥BORI: 1-129-9॥
When the foolish Duryodhana heard those words spoken by men devoted to Yudhishthira, he was deeply distressed. (BORI: 1-129-9)
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sa tapyamānō duṣṭātmā tēṣāṁ vācō na cakṣamē । īrṣyayā cābhisantaptō dhr̥tarāṣṭramupāgamat ॥BORI: 1-129-10॥
Tormented, the wicked-minded man could not bear their words. Burning with jealousy, he went to Dhritarashtra. (BORI: 1-129-10)
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tatō virahitaṁ dr̥ṣṭvā pitaraṁ pratipūjya saḥ । paurānurāgasantaptaḥ paścādidamabhāṣata ॥BORI: 1-129-11॥
Then, finding his father alone, he paid him due respect and, tormented by the citizens’ affection, afterward said this: (BORI: 1-129-11)
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śrutā mē jalpatāṁ tāta paurāṇāmaśivā giraḥ । tvāmanādr̥tya bhīṣmaṁ ca patimicchanti pāṇḍavam ॥BORI: 1-129-12॥
Father, I have heard the ominous words of the townspeople as they talk: disregarding you and Bhishma, they want the Pandava as their lord. (BORI: 1-129-12)
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matamētacca bhīṣmasya na sa rājyaṁ bubhūṣati । asmākaṁ tu parāṁ pīḍāṁ cikīrṣanti purē janāḥ ॥BORI: 1-129-13॥
This is also Bhishma’s view, though he does not wish to be king. But the people in the city seek to inflict the utmost suffering on us. (BORI: 1-129-13)
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pitr̥taḥ prāptavānrājyaṁ pāṇḍurātmaguṇaiḥ purā । tvamapyaguṇasaṁyōgātprāptaṁ rājyaṁ na labdhavān ॥BORI: 1-129-14॥
Pāṇḍu inherited the kingdom from his father long ago through his own virtues, while you, because of your lack of virtue, failed to obtain the kingdom that had come to you. (BORI: 1-129-14)
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sa ēṣa pāṇḍōrdāyādyaṁ yadi prāpnōti pāṇḍavaḥ । tasya putrō dhruvaṁ prāptastasya tasyēti cāparaḥ ॥BORI: 1-129-15॥
If this son of Pandu obtains Pandu’s inheritance, his son will surely obtain it, and after him another of his line, and so on. (BORI: 1-129-15)
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tē vayaṁ rājavaṁśēna hīnāḥ saha sutairapi । avajñātā bhaviṣyāmō lōkasya jagatīpatē ॥BORI: 1-129-16॥
Then we, together with our sons, will be deprived of the royal lineage and despised by the people, O lord of the earth. (BORI: 1-129-16)
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satataṁ nirayaṁ prāptāḥ parapiṇḍōpajīvinaḥ । na bhavēma yathā rājaṁstathā śīghraṁ vidhīyatām ॥BORI: 1-129-17॥
Act quickly, O king, so that we do not live in perpetual misery, dependent on others for our food. (BORI: 1-129-17)
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abhaviṣyaḥ sthirō rājyē yadi hi tvaṁ purā nr̥pa । dhruvaṁ prāpsyāma ca vayaṁ rājyamapyavaśē janē ॥BORI: 1-129-18॥
Had you stood firm in your rule before, O king, we too would certainly have gained the kingdom, even against the people’s will. (BORI: 1-129-18)
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guṇaiḥ samuditāndr̥ṣṭvā paurāḥ pāṇḍusutāṁstadā । kathayāñcakrirē tēṣāṁ guṇānsaṁsatsu bhārata ॥KUMB: 1-152-4; NILA: 01.141.023॥
Seeing that the sons of Pandu were endowed with virtues, the citizens then spoke of their qualities in public assemblies, O Bharata. (KUMB: 1-152-4; NILA: 01.141.023)
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rājyaprāptiṁ ca saṁprāptaṁ jyēṣṭhaṁ pāṇḍusutaṁ tadā । kathayanti sma saṁbhūya catvarēṣu sabhāsu ca ॥KUMB: 1-152-5; NILA: 01.141.024॥
Gathering in public squares and assembly halls, they said that Pāṇḍu’s eldest son had now become eligible to receive the kingdom. (KUMB: 1-152-5; NILA: 01.141.024)
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vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
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dhr̥tarāṣṭrastu putrasya śrutvā vacanamīdr̥śam । muhūrtamiva sañcintya duryōdhanamathābravīt ॥BORI: 1-130-1॥
When Dhritarashtra heard these words from his son, he reflected for a moment and then said to Duryodhana: (BORI: 1-130-1)
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dharmanityaḥ sadā pāṇḍurmamāsītpriyakr̥ddhitaḥ । sarvēṣu jñātiṣu tathā mayi tvāsīdviśēṣataḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-2॥
Pandu was ever devoted to righteousness, always doing what pleased and benefited me. He was likewise disposed toward all his kinsmen, but especially toward me. (BORI: 1-130-2)
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nāsya kiñcinna jānāmi bhōjanādi cikīrṣitam । nivēdayati nityaṁ hi mama rājyaṁ dhr̥tavrataḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-3॥
There is nothing he wishes to do—not even take a meal—that I do not know about; steadfast in his vows, he always places the kingdom at my disposal. (BORI: 1-130-3)
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tasya putrō yathā pāṇḍustathā dharmaparāyaṇaḥ । guṇavām̐llōkavikhyātaḥ paurāṇāṁ ca susaṁmataḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-4॥
His son Pandu is likewise devoted to righteousness, virtuous, renowned throughout the world, and highly esteemed by the citizens. (BORI: 1-130-4)
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sa kathaṁ śakyamasmābhirapakraṣṭuṁ balāditaḥ । pitr̥paitāmahādrājyātsasahāyō viśēṣataḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-5॥
How can we forcibly dispossess him of the kingdom inherited from his father and grandfather, especially when he has allies? (BORI: 1-130-5)
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bhr̥tā hi pāṇḍunāmātyā balaṁ ca satataṁ bhr̥tam । bhr̥tāḥ putrāśca pautrāśca tēṣāmapi viśēṣataḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-6॥
For the ministers were supported by Pandu, and the army was constantly maintained; their sons and grandsons too were especially well provided for. (BORI: 1-130-6)
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tē purā satkr̥tāstāta pāṇḍunā pauravā janāḥ । kathaṁ yudhiṣṭhirasyārthē na nō hanyuḥ sabāndhavān ॥BORI: 1-130-7॥
Those Paurava people were honored in the past by Pandu, my son. Why would they not kill us and our kinsmen for Yudhishthira’s sake? (BORI: 1-130-7)
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duryōdhana uvāca॥
Duryodhana said:
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ēvamētanmayā tāta bhāvitaṁ dōṣamātmani । dr̥ṣṭvā prakr̥tayaḥ sarvā arthamānēna yōjitāḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-8॥
Father, I too have considered this matter in just this way. Recognizing the danger to myself, I have won over all the leading citizens with wealth and honors. (BORI: 1-130-8)
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dhruvamasmatsahāyāstē bhaviṣyanti pradhānataḥ । arthavargaḥ sahāmātyō matsaṁsthō’dya mahīpatē ॥BORI: 1-130-9॥
They will certainly be our principal allies. The treasury, together with the ministers, is now under my control, O king. (BORI: 1-130-9)
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sa bhavānpāṇḍavānāśu vivāsayitumarhati । mr̥dunaivābhyupāyēna nagaraṁ vāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-130-10॥
You should therefore quickly send the Pandavas away to the city of Varanavata, using only gentle means. (BORI: 1-130-10)
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yadā pratiṣṭhitaṁ rājyaṁ mayi rājanbhaviṣyati । tadā kuntī sahāpatyā punarēṣyati bhārata ॥BORI: 1-130-11॥
When the kingdom is securely established in my hands, O king, Kunti and her sons will return, O Bharata. (BORI: 1-130-11)
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dhr̥tarāṣṭra uvāca॥
Dhritarashtra said:
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duryōdhana mamāpyētaddhr̥di samparivartatē । abhiprāyasya pāpatvānnaitattu vivr̥ṇōmyaham ॥BORI: 1-130-12॥
Duryodhana, this too has been turning over in my mind. But because the intention is wicked, I do not disclose it. (BORI: 1-130-12)
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na ca bhīṣmō na ca drōṇō na kṣattā na ca gautamaḥ । vivāsyamānānkauntēyānanumaṁsyanti karhicit ॥BORI: 1-130-13॥
Neither Bhishma nor Drona nor Kshatta nor Gautama will ever consent to the sons of Kunti being banished. (BORI: 1-130-13)
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samā hi kauravēyāṇāṁ vayamētē ca putraka । naitē viṣamamicchēyurdharmayuktā manasvinaḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-14॥
For, my son, in the eyes of the Kauravas, we and these men are equal. Righteous and high-minded, they would not wish for unequal treatment. (BORI: 1-130-14)
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tē vayaṁ kauravēyāṇāmētēṣāṁ ca mahātmanām । kathaṁ na vadhyatāṁ tāta gacchēma jagatastathā ॥BORI: 1-130-15॥
How then, dear son, could we avoid becoming deserving of death at the hands of the Kauravas, these great-souled men, and likewise the world? (BORI: 1-130-15)
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duryōdhana uvāca॥
Duryodhana said:
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madhyasthaḥ satataṁ bhīṣmō drōṇaputrō mayi sthitaḥ । yataḥ putrastatō drōṇō bhavitā nātra sāṁśayaḥ ॥BORI: 1-130-16॥
Bhishma is always neutral, but Drona’s son stands with me. Wherever his son is, Drona will be too; there is no doubt of this. (BORI: 1-130-16)
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kr̥paḥ śāradvataścaiva yata ētē trayastataḥ । drōṇaṁ ca bhāginēyaṁ ca na sa tyakṣyati karhicit ॥BORI: 1-130-17॥
Kripa, son of Sharadvata, will likewise be wherever these three are. He will never abandon Drona and his nephew. (BORI: 1-130-17)
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kṣattārthabaddhastvasmākaṁ pracchannaṁ tu yataḥ parē । na caikaḥ sa samarthō’smānpāṇḍavārthē prabādhitum ॥BORI: 1-130-18॥
The chamberlain is bound to us by material interests, though secretly devoted to the others; and alone he is not capable of thwarting us on behalf of the Pandavas. (BORI: 1-130-18)
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sa viśrabdhaḥ pāṇḍuputrānsaha mātrā vivāsaya । vāraṇāvatamadyaiva nātra dōṣō bhaviṣyati ॥BORI: 1-130-19॥
So, without misgivings, send the sons of Pandu away with their mother to Varanavata this very day. No blame will attach to this. (BORI: 1-130-19)
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vinidrakaraṇaṁ ghōraṁ hr̥di śalyamivārpitam । śōkapāvakamudbhūtaṁ karmaṇaitēna nāśaya ॥BORI: 1-130-20॥
By this act, extinguish the terrible fire of grief that has arisen, causing sleeplessness and lodged in my heart like a dart. (BORI: 1-130-20)
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vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
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tatō duryōdhanō rājā sarvāstāḥ prakr̥tīḥ śanaiḥ । arthamānapradānābhyāṁ sañjahāra sahānujaḥ ॥BORI: 1-131-1॥
Then King Duryodhana, together with his younger brothers, gradually won over all the subjects by bestowing wealth and honors upon them. (BORI: 1-131-1)
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dhr̥tarāṣṭraprayuktāstu kēcitkuśalamantriṇaḥ । kathayāṁ cakrirē ramyaṁ nagaraṁ vāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-131-2॥
Meanwhile, some skillful advisers, prompted by Dhritarashtra, began to speak of the charms of the city of Varanavata. (BORI: 1-131-2)
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ayaṁ samājaḥ sumahānramaṇīyatamō bhuvi । upasthitaḥ paśupatērnagarē vāraṇāvatē ॥BORI: 1-131-3॥
This great festival of Pashupati, the most delightful on earth, is now taking place in the city of Varanavata. (BORI: 1-131-3)
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sarvaratnasamākīrṇē puṁsāṁ dēśē manōramē । ityēvaṁ dhr̥tarāṣṭrasya vacanāccakrirē kathāḥ ॥BORI: 1-131-4॥
“in that place, filled with every kind of treasure and delightful to men.” Thus, at Dhritarashtra’s bidding, they spoke in this way. (BORI: 1-131-4)
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kathyamānē tathā ramyē nagarē vāraṇāvatē । gamanē pāṇḍuputrāṇāṁ jajñē tatra matirnr̥pa ॥BORI: 1-131-5॥
O king, as the delightful city of Varanavata was being described in this way, the sons of Pandu conceived a desire to go there. (BORI: 1-131-5)
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yadā tvamanyata nr̥pō jātakautūhalā iti । uvācainānatha tadā pāṇḍavānambikāsutaḥ ॥BORI: 1-131-6॥
When the king thought, “They have grown curious,” Ambikā’s son then said to the Pāṇḍavas: (BORI: 1-131-6)
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mamēmē puruṣā nityaṁ kathayanti punaḥ punaḥ । ramaṇīyataraṁ lōkē nagaraṁ vāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-131-7॥
These men of mine constantly tell me, again and again, that the city of Varanavata is the most delightful place in the world. (BORI: 1-131-7)
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tē tāta yadi manyadhvamutsavaṁ vāraṇāvatē । sagaṇāḥ sānuyātrāśca viharadhvaṁ yathāmarāḥ ॥BORI: 1-131-8॥
My sons, if you wish to attend the festival at Varanavata, enjoy yourselves there like the gods, together with your companions and retinues. (BORI: 1-131-8)
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brāhmaṇēbhyaśca ratnāni gāyanēbhyaśca sarvaśaḥ । prayacchadhvaṁ yathākāmaṁ dēvā iva suvarcasaḥ ॥BORI: 1-131-9॥
Give jewels freely to the Brahmins and singers according to your pleasure, like the radiant gods. (BORI: 1-131-9)
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kañcitkālaṁ vihr̥tyaivamanubhūya parāṁ mudam । idaṁ vai hāstinapuraṁ sukhinaḥ punarēṣyatha ॥BORI: 1-131-10॥
After spending some time in this way and experiencing the greatest delight, you will return happily to Hastinapura. (BORI: 1-131-10)
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dhr̥tarāṣṭrasya taṁ kāmamanubuddhvā yudhiṣṭhiraḥ । ātmanaścāsahāyatvaṁ tathēti pratyuvāca tam ॥BORI: 1-131-11॥
Realizing Dhritarashtra’s wish and his own lack of allies, Yudhishthira replied to him, “So be it.” (BORI: 1-131-11)
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tatō bhīṣmaṁ mahāprājñaṁ viduraṁ ca mahāmatim । drōṇaṁ ca bāhlikaṁ caiva sōmadattaṁ ca kauravam ॥BORI: 1-131-12॥
Then Bhishma, the profoundly wise Vidura, Drona, Bahlika, and Somadatta the Kaurava... (BORI: 1-131-12)
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kr̥pamācāryaputraṁ ca gāndhārīṁ ca yaśasvinīm । yudhiṣṭhiraḥ śanairdīnamuvācēdaṁ vacastadā ॥BORI: 1-131-13॥
Kripa, the preceptor’s son, and the illustrious Gandhari—Yudhishthira then softly spoke these sorrowful words to them: (BORI: 1-131-13)
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ramaṇīyē janākīrṇē nagarē vāraṇāvatē । sagaṇāstāta vatsyāmō dhr̥tarāṣṭrasya śāsanāt ॥BORI: 1-131-14॥
Dear ones, we shall stay with our attendants in the delightful, populous city of Varanavata, in obedience to Dhritarashtra’s command. (BORI: 1-131-14)
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prasannamanasaḥ sarvē puṇyā vācō vimuñcata । āśīrbhirvardhitānasmānna pāpaṁ prasahiṣyati ॥BORI: 1-131-15॥
With joyful hearts, all of you utter auspicious words. Strengthened by your blessings, we shall not be overcome by evil. (BORI: 1-131-15)
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ēvamuktāstu tē sarvē pāṇḍuputrēṇa kauravāḥ । prasannavadanā bhūtvā tē’bhyavartanta pāṇḍavān ॥BORI: 1-131-16॥
Thus addressed by the son of Pandu, all the Kauravas brightened and approached the Pandavas. (BORI: 1-131-16)
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svastyastu vaḥ pathi sadā bhūtēbhyaścaiva sarvaśaḥ । mā ca vō’stvaśubhaṁ kiñcitsarvataḥ pāṇḍunandanāḥ ॥BORI: 1-131-17॥
May you always fare well on your journey and be safe from all beings in every way. May no misfortune befall you from any quarter, sons of Pandu. (BORI: 1-131-17)
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tataḥ kr̥tasvastyayanā rājyalābhāya pāṇḍavāḥ । kr̥tvā sarvāṇi kāryāṇi prayayurvāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-131-18॥
Then, after auspicious rites had been performed for their attainment of the kingdom, the Pandavas completed all their preparations and departed for Varanavata. (BORI: 1-131-18)
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tatō duryōdhanō rājā sarvāstu prakr̥tīḥ śanaiḥ । arthamānapradānābhyāṁ saṁjahāra sahānujaḥ । yuyutsumapanīyaikaṁ dhārtarāṣṭraṁ sahōdaram ॥KUMB: 1-155-1॥
Then King Duryodhana, together with his younger brothers, gradually won over all the people by bestowing wealth and honors upon them, except for Yuyutsu alone, his brother and a son of Dhritarashtra. (KUMB: 1-155-1)
[PV-SVO:01_025_65]
adhītāni ca śāstrāṇi yuṣmābhiriha kr̥tsnaśaḥ । astrāṇi ca tathā drōṇādgautamācca śaradvataḥ ॥KUMB: 1-155-7॥
You have studied all the scriptures here thoroughly, as well as weaponry under Drona and Gautama, the son of Sharadvat. (KUMB: 1-155-7)
[PV-SVO:01_025_66]
kr̥takr̥tyā bhavantastu sarvavidyāviśāradāḥ । sō’hamēvaṁ gatē tātāścintayāmi samantataḥ । rakṣaṇē vyavahārē ca rājyasya satataṁ hitē ॥KUMB: 1-155-8॥
You have accomplished all that was required and are proficient in every branch of learning. Therefore, dear sons, now that matters stand thus, I am constantly considering from every angle the kingdom’s protection, administration, and welfare. (KUMB: 1-155-8)
[PV-SVO:01_025_67]
nivasadhvaṁ ca tatraiva saṁrakṣaṇaparāyaṇāḥ । vailakṣaṇyaṁ na vai tatra bhaviṣyati paraṁtapāḥ ॥KUMB: 1-155-13॥
Remain there, wholly devoted to its protection; nothing will go amiss there, O scorchers of foes. (KUMB: 1-155-13)
[PV-SVO:01_025_68]
kr̥pamācāryaputraṁ ca bhūriśravasamēva ca । mānyānanyānamātyāṁśca brāhmaṇāṁśca tapōdhanān ॥KUMB: 1-155-16; NILA: 01.143.013॥
Kripa and the preceptor’s son, as well as Bhurishravas, the other honored ministers, and Brahmins rich in austerity... (KUMB: 1-155-16; NILA: 01.143.013)
[PV-SVO:01_025_69]
purōhitāṁśca pautrāṁśca gāndhārīṁ ca yaśasvinīm । sarvā mātr̥̄rupaspr̥ṣṭvā vidurasya ca yōṣitaḥ । yudhiṣṭhiraḥ śanairdīna uvācēdaṁ vacastadā ॥KUMB: 1-155-17; NILA: 01.143.014॥
After paying his respects to the priests, the grandsons, the illustrious Gandhari, all the mothers, and Vidura’s wives, the dejected Yudhishthira then softly spoke these words. (KUMB: 1-155-17; NILA: 01.143.014)
[PV-SVO:01_025_70]
vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_025_71]
ēvamuktēṣu rājñā tu pāṇḍavēṣu mahātmasu । duryōdhanaḥ paraṁ harṣamājagāma durātmavān ॥BORI: 1-132-1॥
When the king had spoken thus to the noble Pandavas, the wicked Duryodhana was filled with supreme delight. (BORI: 1-132-1)
[PV-KDV:01_025_72]
tataḥ subalaputraśca karṇaduryōdhanāvapi । dahanē saha putrāyāḥ kuntyā matimakurvata । mantrayitvā sa taiḥ sārdhaṁ durātmā dhr̥tarāṣṭrajaḥ ॥KUMB: 1-156-2॥
Then Subala’s son, Karna, and Duryodhana resolved to burn Kunti together with her sons. After consulting with them, the wicked son of Dhritarashtra… (KUMB: 1-156-2)
[PV-KDV:01_025_73]
sa purōcanamēkāntamānīya bharatarṣabha । gr̥hītvā dakṣiṇē pāṇau sacivaṁ vākyamabravīt ॥BORI: 1-132-2॥
O best of the Bharatas, he took his counselor Purocana aside, grasped him by the right hand, and said: (BORI: 1-132-2)
[PV-KDV:01_025_74]
mamēyaṁ vasusampūrṇā purōcana vasundharā । yathēyaṁ mama tadvattē sa tāṁ rakṣitumarhasi ॥BORI: 1-132-3॥
This earth, full of riches, is mine, Purocana. Just as it is mine, so it is yours; therefore you should protect it. (BORI: 1-132-3)
[PV-KDV:01_025_75]
na hi mē kaścidanyō’sti vaiśvāsikatarastvayā । sahāyō yēna sandhāya mantrayēyaṁ yathā tvayā ॥BORI: 1-132-4॥
For I have no other ally more trustworthy than you, with whom I could consult in confidence as I can with you. (BORI: 1-132-4)
[PV-KDV:01_025_76]
saṁrakṣa tāta mantraṁ ca sapatnāṁśca mamōddhara । nipuṇēnābhyupāyēna yadbravīmi tathā kuru ॥BORI: 1-132-5॥
Keep this counsel secret, my dear, and eliminate my enemies by a skillful stratagem. Do as I tell you. (BORI: 1-132-5)
[PV-KDV:01_025_77]
pāṇḍavā dhr̥tarāṣṭrēṇa prēṣitā vāraṇāvatam । utsavē vihariṣyanti dhr̥tarāṣṭrasya śāsanāt ॥BORI: 1-132-6॥
Dhritarashtra has sent the Pandavas to Varanavata. At his command, they will enjoy the festival there. (BORI: 1-132-6)
[PV-KDV:01_025_78]
sa tvaṁ rāsabhayuktēna syandanēnāśugāminā । vāraṇāvatamadyaiva yathā yāsi tathā kuru ॥BORI: 1-132-7॥
Therefore, arrange to go to Varanavata this very day in a swift chariot drawn by donkeys. (BORI: 1-132-7)
[PV-KDV:01_025_79]
tatra gatvā catuḥśālaṁ gr̥haṁ paramasaṁvr̥tam । āyudhāgāramāśritya kārayēthā mahādhanam ॥BORI: 1-132-8॥
Once there, have a very costly four-winged house built beside the arsenal, thoroughly enclosed. (BORI: 1-132-8)
[PV-KDV:01_025_80]
śaṇasarjarasādīni yāni dravyāṇi kānicit । āgnēyānyuta santīha tāni sarvāṇi dāpaya ॥BORI: 1-132-9॥
Have all the flammable materials available here—hemp, resin, and anything else of that kind—brought there. (BORI: 1-132-9)
[PV-KDV:01_025_81]
sarpiṣā ca satailēna lākṣayā cāpyanalpayā । mr̥ttikāṁ miśrayitvā tvaṁ lēpaṁ kuḍyēṣu dāpayēḥ ॥BORI: 1-132-10॥
Mix clay with ghee, oil, and a large quantity of lac, and have the walls coated with it. (BORI: 1-132-10)
[PV-KDV:01_025_82]
śaṇānvaṁśaṁ ghr̥taṁ dāru yantrāṇi vividhāni ca । tasminvēśmani sarvāṇi nikṣipēthāḥ samantataḥ ॥BORI: 1-132-11॥
You should place hemp, bamboo, ghee, timber, and various devices throughout that house. (BORI: 1-132-11)
[PV-KDV:01_025_83]
yathā ca tvāṁ na śaṅkēranparīkṣantō’pi pāṇḍavāḥ । āgnēyamiti tatkāryamiti cānyē ca mānavāḥ ॥BORI: 1-132-12॥
It must be made so that neither the Pandavas nor any other people, even upon examining it, suspect you or think that it is combustible. (BORI: 1-132-12)
[PV-KDV:01_025_84]
vēśmanyēvaṁ kr̥tē tatra kr̥tvā tānparamārcitān । vāsayēḥ pāṇḍavēyāṁśca kuntīṁ ca sasuhr̥jjanām ॥BORI: 1-132-13॥
Once the house there has been prepared in this way, you should receive the sons of Pandu with the highest honors and lodge them there, along with Kunti and their friends. (BORI: 1-132-13)
[PV-KDV:01_025_85]
tatrāsanāni mukhyāni yānāni śayanāni ca । vidhātavyāni pāṇḍūnāṁ yathā tuṣyēta mē pitā ॥BORI: 1-132-14॥
There you must provide the sons of Pandu with the finest seats, conveyances, and beds, so that my father may be pleased. (BORI: 1-132-14)
[PV-KDV:01_025_86]
yathā ramēranviśrabdhā nagarē vāraṇāvatē । tathā sarvaṁ vidhātavyaṁ yāvatkālasya paryayaḥ ॥BORI: 1-132-15॥
Everything must be arranged so that they may enjoy themselves without suspicion in the city of Varanavata until the appointed time has elapsed. (BORI: 1-132-15)
[PV-KDV:01_025_87]
jñātvā tu tānsuviśvastāñśayānānakutōbhayān । agnistatastvayā dēyō dvāratastasya vēśmanaḥ ॥BORI: 1-132-16॥
But once you know that they are sound asleep, fully trusting and free from fear, you must then set fire to the house at its door. (BORI: 1-132-16)
[PV-KDV:01_025_88]
dagdhānēvaṁ svakē gēhē dagdhā iti tatō janāḥ । jñātayō vā vadiṣyanti pāṇḍavārthāya karhicit ॥BORI: 1-132-17॥
Then, once they have thus been burned in their own house, the people—or even their relatives—will eventually say of the Pandavas, “They were burned to death.” (BORI: 1-132-17)
[PV-KDV:01_025_89]
tattathēti pratijñāya kauravāya purōcanaḥ । prāyādrāsabhayuktēna nagaraṁ vāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-132-18॥
Having promised the Kaurava, “It shall be so,” Purocana set out in a donkey-drawn carriage for the city of Varanavata. (BORI: 1-132-18)
[PV-KDV:01_025_90]
sa gatvā tvaritō rājanduryōdhanamatē sthitaḥ । yathōktaṁ rājaputrēṇa sarvaṁ cakrē purōcanaḥ ॥BORI: 1-132-19॥
Having gone there swiftly, O king, Purochana, intent on carrying out Duryodhana’s plan, did everything as the prince had instructed. (BORI: 1-132-19)
[PV-KDV:01_025_91]
tataḥ subalaputraśca karṇaduryōdhanāvapi । dahanē saha putrāyāḥ kuntyā matimakurvata । mantrayitvā sa taiḥ sārdhaṁ durātmā dhr̥tarāṣṭrajaḥ ॥KUMB: 1-156-2॥
Then Subala’s son, Karna, and Duryodhana resolved to burn Kunti together with her sons. After consulting with them, the wicked son of Dhritarashtra… (KUMB: 1-156-2)
[PV-SVO:01_025_92]
balvajēna ca saṁmiśraṁ madhūcchiṣṭēna caiva hi ॥KUMB: 1-156-11॥
mixed with balvaja grass and also with beeswax… (KUMB: 1-156-11)
[PV-SVO:01_025_93]
lākṣāśamamadhūcchiṣṭavēṣṭitāni mr̥dāpi ca । lēpayitvā gurūṇyāśu dāruyantrāṇi dāpaya ॥KUMB: 1-156-13॥
After coating the heavy wooden contrivances, wrapped in lac, hemp, and beeswax, with clay as well, have them installed at once. (KUMB: 1-156-13)
[PV-SVO:01_025_94]
yathā ca tanna jānanti nagarē vāraṇāvatē ॥KUMB: 1-156-17॥
so that they do not learn of it in the city of Varanavata. (KUMB: 1-156-17)
[PV-SVO:01_025_95]
tēṣāṁ tu pāṇḍavēyānāṁ gr̥haṁ raudramakalpayat ॥KUMB: 1-156-22॥
But he prepared a dreadful house for those sons of Pandu. (KUMB: 1-156-22)
[PV-SVO:01_025_96]
vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_025_97]
pāṇḍavāstu rathānyuktvā sadaśvairanilōpamaiḥ । ārōhamāṇā bhīṣmasya pādau jagr̥hurārtavat ॥BORI: 1-133-1॥
The Pandavas yoked their chariots with fine horses like the wind and, as they mounted, clasped Bhishma’s feet like men in distress… (BORI: 1-133-1)
[PV-KDV:01_025_98]
rājñaśca dhr̥tarāṣṭrasya drōṇasya ca mahātmanaḥ । anyēṣāṁ caiva vr̥ddhānāṁ vidurasya kr̥pasya ca ॥BORI: 1-133-2॥
and those of King Dhritarashtra, the great-souled Drona, the other elders, Vidura, and Kripa. (BORI: 1-133-2)
[PV-KDV:01_025_99]
ēvaṁ sarvānkurūnvr̥ddhānabhivādya yatavratāḥ । samāliṅgya samānāṁśca bālaiścāpyabhivāditāḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-3॥
Thus, after saluting all the elder Kurus, those faithful to their vows embraced their peers and received the salutations of the younger ones... (BORI: 1-133-3)
[PV-KDV:01_025_100]
sarvā mātr̥stathāpr̥ṣṭvā kr̥tvā caiva pradakṣiṇam । sarvāḥ prakr̥tayaścaiva prayayurvāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-133-4॥
Having taken leave of all their mothers and all the citizens, and having circumambulated them, they departed for Varanavata. (BORI: 1-133-4)
[PV-KDV:01_025_101]
viduraśca mahāprājñastathānyē kurupuṅgavāḥ । paurāśca puruṣavyāghrānanvayuḥ śōkakarśitāḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-5॥
The exceedingly wise Vidura, the other foremost Kurus, and the citizens, worn down by grief, followed the tigers among men. (BORI: 1-133-5)
[PV-KDV:01_025_102]
tatra kēccidbruvanti sma brāhmaṇā nirbhayāstadā । śōcamānāḥ pāṇḍuputrānatīva bharatarṣabha ॥BORI: 1-133-6॥
Then some fearless Brahmins there, grieving deeply for the sons of Pandu, said, “O best of the Bharatas,” (BORI: 1-133-6)
[PV-KDV:01_025_103]
viṣamaṁ paśyatē rājā sarvathā tamasāvr̥taḥ । dhr̥tarāṣṭraḥ sudurbuddhirna ca dharmaṁ prapaśyati ॥BORI: 1-133-7॥
The king, shrouded entirely in darkness, sees things wrongly. Dhritarashtra is utterly foolish and does not perceive what is right. (BORI: 1-133-7)
[PV-PAN:01_025_104]
na hi pāpamapāpātmā rōcayiṣyati pāṇḍavaḥ । bhīmō vā balināṁ śrēṣṭhaḥ kauntēyō vā dhanañjayaḥ । kuta ēva mahāprājñau mādrīputrau kariṣyataḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-8॥
For the sinless Yudhishthira will not approve of evil, nor will Bhima, foremost of the strong, nor Kunti’s son Dhananjaya. How much less would Madri’s two exceedingly wise sons commit it? (BORI: 1-133-8)
[PV-PAN:01_025_105]
tadrājyaṁ pitr̥taḥ prāptaṁ dhr̥tarāṣṭrō na mr̥ṣyatē । adharmamakhilaṁ kiṁ nu bhīṣmō’yamanumanyatē । vivāsyamānānasthānē kauntēyānbharatarṣabhān ॥BORI: 1-133-9॥
Dhritarashtra cannot abide the kingdom they inherited from their father. How can this Bhishma condone such utter injustice—the sons of Kunti, bulls of the Bharatas, being wrongfully driven into exile? (BORI: 1-133-9)
[PV-PAN:01_025_106]
pitēva hi nr̥pō’smākamabhūcchāntanavaḥ purā । vicitravīryō rājarṣiḥ pāṇḍuśca kurunandanaḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-10॥
For Shantanu’s son, our lord, was formerly like a father to us, as were the royal sage Vichitravirya and Pandu, delight of the Kurus. (BORI: 1-133-10)
[PV-KDV:01_025_107]
sa tasminpuruṣavyāghrē diṣṭabhāvaṁ gatē sati । rājaputrānimānbālāndhr̥tarāṣṭrō na mr̥ṣyatē ॥BORI: 1-133-11॥
Now that that tiger among men has met his appointed fate, Dhritarashtra cannot tolerate these young princes. (BORI: 1-133-11)
[PV-KDV:01_025_108]
vayamētadamr̥ṣyantaḥ sarva ēva purōttamāt । gr̥hānvihāya gacchāmō yatra yāti yudhiṣṭhiraḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-12॥
All of us, unable to endure this from the foremost man of the city, will leave our homes and go wherever Yudhishthira goes. (BORI: 1-133-12)
[PV-PAN:01_025_109]
tāṁstathāvādinaḥ paurānduḥkhitānduḥkhakarśitaḥ । uvāca paramaprītō dharmarājō yudhiṣṭhiraḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-13॥
Deeply distressed by the suffering citizens who spoke in this way, the righteous king Yudhishthira addressed them with great affection: (BORI: 1-133-13)
[PV-KDV:01_025_110]
pitā mānyō guruḥ śrēṣṭhō yadāha pr̥thivīpatiḥ । aśaṅkamānaistatkāryamasmābhiriti nō vratam ॥BORI: 1-133-14॥
The king is our father, worthy of honor, and our highest teacher. Whatever he commands, we must carry out without hesitation—such is our vow. (BORI: 1-133-14)
[PV-PAN:01_025_111]
bhavantaḥ suhr̥dō’smākamasmānkr̥tvā pradakṣiṇam । āśīrbhirabhinandyāsmānnivartadhvaṁ yathāgr̥ham ॥BORI: 1-133-15॥
You are our friends. Walk around us clockwise, bless us with your good wishes, and then return to your respective homes. (BORI: 1-133-15)
[PV-KDV:01_025_112]
yadā tu kāryamasmākaṁ bhavadbhirupapatsyatē । tadā kariṣyatha mama priyāṇi ca hitāni ca ॥BORI: 1-133-16॥
But when we have need of you, you shall do what is both pleasing and beneficial to me. (BORI: 1-133-16)
[PV-PAN:01_025_113]
tē tathēti pratijñāya kr̥tvā caitānpradakṣiṇam । āśīrbhirabhinandyaināñjagmurnagaramēva hi ॥BORI: 1-133-17॥
They promised, “So be it,” circumambulated them, blessed them, and then returned to the city. (BORI: 1-133-17)
[PV-PAN:01_025_114]
paurēṣu tu nivr̥ttēṣu viduraḥ sarvadharmavit । bōdhayanpāṇḍavaśrēṣṭhamidaṁ vacanamabravīt । prājñaḥ prājñaṁ pralāpajñaḥ samyagdharmārthadarśivān ॥BORI: 1-133-18॥
When the townspeople had turned back, the wise Vidura, knower of every duty, skilled in discourse and discerning dharma and artha correctly, instructed the wise foremost of the Pandavas and spoke these words: (BORI: 1-133-18)
[PV-KDV:01_025_115]
vijñāyēdaṁ tathā kuryādāpadaṁ nistarēdyathā । alōhaṁ niśitaṁ śastraṁ śarīraparikartanam । yō vētti na tamāghnanti pratighātavidaṁ dviṣaḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-19॥
Understanding this, one should act so as to escape danger. Enemies do not strike down one who recognizes the sharp, non-iron weapon that cuts the body and knows how to counter it. (BORI: 1-133-19)
[PV-PAN:01_025_116]
kakṣaghnaḥ śiśiraghnaśca mahākakṣē bilaukasaḥ । na dahēditi cātmānaṁ yō rakṣati sa jīvati ॥BORI: 1-133-20॥
The fire that consumes dry grass and dispels the cold would not burn creatures dwelling in holes in a vast thicket; whoever thus protects himself survives. (BORI: 1-133-20)
[PV-PAN:01_025_117]
nācakṣurvētti panthānaṁ nācakṣurvindatē diśaḥ । nādhr̥tirbhūtimāpnōti budhyasvaivaṁ prabōdhitaḥ ॥BORI: 1-133-21॥
A blind man does not know the path or discern the directions; one without fortitude does not attain prosperity. Understand this, now that you have been instructed. (BORI: 1-133-21)
[PV-PAN:01_025_118]
anāptairdattamādattē naraḥ śastramalōhajam । śvāviccharaṇamāsādya pramucyēta hutāśanāt ॥BORI: 1-133-22॥
A man accepts a weapon not made of iron when it is given by those he does not trust. By reaching a porcupine’s shelter, he may escape from a fire. (BORI: 1-133-22)
[PV-KDV:01_025_119]
caranmārgānvijānāti nakṣatrairvindatē diśaḥ । ātmanā cātmanaḥ pañca pīḍayannānupīḍyatē ॥BORI: 1-133-23॥
By traveling, one comes to know the roads; by the stars, one finds the directions. By mastering one’s five senses through self-control, one is not afflicted. (BORI: 1-133-23)
[PV-KDV:01_025_120]
anuśiṣṭvānugatvā ca kr̥tvā cainānpradakṣiṇam । pāṇḍavānabhyanujñāya viduraḥ prayayau gr̥hān ॥BORI: 1-133-24॥
After instructing and accompanying the Pandavas, and circumambulating them, Vidura took his leave of them and departed for home. (BORI: 1-133-24)
[PV-KDV:01_025_121]
nivr̥ttē vidurē caiva bhīṣmē paurajanē tathā । ajātaśatrumāmantrya kuntī vacanamabravīt ॥BORI: 1-133-25॥
When Vidura, Bhishma, and the townspeople had departed, Kunti addressed Ajatashatru and said: (BORI: 1-133-25)
[PV-PAN:01_025_122]
kṣattā yadabravīdvākyaṁ janamadhyē’bruvanniva । tvayā ca tattathētyuktō jānīmō na ca tadvayam ॥BORI: 1-133-26॥
What Kshatta said amid the people, as though saying nothing, and to which you replied, “Yes”—we do not understand it. (BORI: 1-133-26)
[PV-PAN:01_025_123]
yadi tacchakyamasmābhiḥ śrōtuṁ na ca sadōṣavat । śrōtumicchāmi tatsarvaṁ saṁvādaṁ tava tasya ca ॥BORI: 1-133-27॥
If it is proper for us to hear it and there is no fault in doing so, I wish to hear the entire conversation between you and him. (BORI: 1-133-27)
[PV-PAN:01_025_124]
yudhiṣṭhira uvāca॥
Yudhishthira said:
[PV-PAN:01_025_125]
viṣādagnēśca bōddhavyamiti māṁ vidurō’bravīt । panthāśca vō nāviditaḥ kaścitsyāditi cābravīt ॥BORI: 1-133-28॥
Vidura told me, “You must be alert to poison and fire.” He also said, “Let no path at all be unknown to you.” (BORI: 1-133-28)
[PV-PAN:01_025_126]
jitēndriyaśca vasudhāṁ prāpsyasīti ca mābravīt । vijñātamiti tatsarvamityuktō vidurō mayā ॥BORI: 1-133-29॥
He also told me, “With your senses under control, you will gain the earth.” I replied to Vidura, “I understand all that.” (BORI: 1-133-29)
[PV-PAN:01_025_127]
vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-PAN:01_025_128]
aṣṭamē’hani rōhiṇyāṁ prayātāḥ phalgunasya tē । vāraṇāvatamāsādya dadr̥śurnāgaraṁ janam ॥BORI: 1-133-30॥
They set out on the eighth day of Phalguna, under Rohini. Upon reaching Varanavata, they saw the townspeople. (BORI: 1-133-30)
[PV-PAN:01_025_129]
prājñaṁ prājñaḥ pralāpajñaḥ pralāpajñaṁ vacōbravīt ॥NILA: 01.145.020॥
The wise man, versed in cryptic speech, spoke to the wise man who was likewise versed in it: (NILA: 01.145.020)
[PV-SVO:01_025_130]
yō jānāti paraprajñāṁ nītiśāstrānusāriṇīm ॥KUMB: 1-157-20; NILA: 01.145.021॥
who understood another’s wisdom when it accorded with the science of statecraft. (KUMB: 1-157-20; NILA: 01.145.021)
[PV-SVO:01_025_131]
ēvamuktaḥ pratyuvāca dharmarājō yudhiṣṭhiraḥ । viduraṁ viduṣāṁ śrēṣṭhaṁ jñātamityēva pāṇḍavaḥ ॥KUMB: 1-157-26; NILA: 01.145.027॥
Thus addressed, Dharma King Yudhishthira, the Pandava, replied to Vidura, foremost of the wise: “It is understood.” (KUMB: 1-157-26; NILA: 01.145.027)
[PV-SVO:01_025_132]
kuḍyāścaviditāḥkāryāḥsyācchuddhiriticābravīt ॥KUMB: 1-157-31॥
“The walls, too, must be investigated; then there will be certainty,” he said. (KUMB: 1-157-31)
[PV-SVO:01_025_133]
vaiśampāyana uvāca॥
Vaiśampāyana said:
[PV-KDV:01_025_134]
tataḥ sarvāḥ prakr̥tayō nagarādvāraṇāvatāt । sarvamaṅgalasaṁyuktā yathāśāstramatandritāḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-1॥
Then all the citizens of Varanavata, equipped with every auspicious object and diligently following the prescribed rites… (BORI: 1-134-1)
[PV-KDV:01_025_135]
śrutvāgatānpāṇḍuputrānnānāyānaiḥ sahasraśaḥ । abhijagmurnaraśrēṣṭhāñśrutvaiva parayā mudā ॥BORI: 1-134-2॥
On hearing that the sons of Pandu had arrived, they came by the thousands in various conveyances to meet those foremost of men, filled with supreme joy at the news. (BORI: 1-134-2)
[PV-KDV:01_025_136]
tē samāsādya kauntēyānvāraṇāvatakā janāḥ । kr̥tvā jayāśiṣaḥ sarvē parivāryōpatasthirē ॥BORI: 1-134-3॥
The people of Vāraṇāvata approached the sons of Kuntī, and after all had offered blessings for their victory, they gathered around them and stood in attendance. (BORI: 1-134-3)
[PV-KDV:01_025_137]
tairvr̥taḥ puruṣavyāghrō dharmarājō yudhiṣṭhiraḥ । vibabhau dēvasaṅkāśō vajrapāṇirivāmaraiḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-4॥
Surrounded by them, Yudhishthira, the king of dharma and tiger among men, shone like a god—like the wielder of the thunderbolt among the immortals. (BORI: 1-134-4)
[PV-KDV:01_025_138]
satkr̥tāstē tu pauraiśca paurānsatkr̥tya cānaghāḥ । alaṅkr̥taṁ janākīrṇaṁ viviśurvāraṇāvatam ॥BORI: 1-134-5॥
Honored by the townspeople, those blameless men in turn honored them and entered Varanavata, adorned and thronged with people. (BORI: 1-134-5)
[PV-KDV:01_025_139]
tē praviśya puraṁ vīrāstūrṇaṁ jagmurathō gr̥hān । brāhmaṇānāṁ mahīpāla ratānāṁ svēṣu karmasu ॥BORI: 1-134-6॥
After entering the city, those heroes quickly went, O king, to the homes of Brahmins devoted to their own duties… (BORI: 1-134-6)
[PV-KDV:01_025_140]
nagarādhikr̥tānāṁ ca gr̥hāṇi rathināṁ tathā । upatasthurnaraśrēṣṭhā vaiśyaśūdragr̥hānapi ॥BORI: 1-134-7॥
Those best of men also visited the homes of the city officials and chariot warriors, as well as those of Vaishyas and Shudras. (BORI: 1-134-7)
[PV-KDV:01_025_141]
arcitāśca naraiḥ pauraiḥ pāṇḍavā bharatarṣabhāḥ । jagmurāvasathaṁ paścātpurōcanapuraskr̥tāḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-8॥
Honored by the townspeople, the Pandavas, bulls of the Bharata line, then went to their residence with Purochana leading the way. (BORI: 1-134-8)
[PV-KDV:01_025_142]
tēbhyō bhakṣyānnapānāni śayanāni śubhāni ca । āsanāni ca mukhyāni pradadau sa purōcanaḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-9॥
Purocana provided them with food and drink, fine beds, and the finest seats. (BORI: 1-134-9)
[PV-KDV:01_025_143]
tatra tē satkr̥tāstēna sumahārhaparicchadāḥ । upāsyamānāḥ puruṣairūṣuḥ puranivāsibhiḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-10॥
There they were treated with honor by him and furnished with exceedingly costly amenities; attended by men of the city, they remained there. (BORI: 1-134-10)
[PV-KDV:01_025_144]
daśarātrōṣitānāṁ tu tatra tēṣāṁ purōcanaḥ । nivēdayāmāsa gr̥haṁ śivākhyamaśivaṁ tadā ॥BORI: 1-134-11॥
After they had stayed there for ten nights, Purochana told them of the inauspicious house called “Auspicious.” (BORI: 1-134-11)
[PV-KDV:01_025_145]
tatra tē puruṣavyāghrā viviśuḥ saparicchadāḥ । purōcanasya vacanātkailāsamiva guhyakāḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-12॥
At Purocana’s bidding, those tiger-like men entered it with their retinue and belongings, like the Guhyakas entering Kailasa. (BORI: 1-134-12)
[PV-KDV:01_025_146]
tattvagāramabhiprēkṣya sarvadharmaviśāradaḥ । uvācāgnēyamityēvaṁ bhīmasēnaṁ yudhiṣṭhiraḥ । jighransōmya vasāgandhaṁ sarpirjatuvimiśritam ॥BORI: 1-134-13॥
After inspecting that house, Yudhishthira, well versed in every duty, smelled the odor of fat mixed with ghee and lac and said to Bhimasena, “My dear Bhima, this is combustible.” (BORI: 1-134-13)
[PV-KDV:01_025_147]
kr̥taṁ hi vyaktamāgnēyamidaṁ vēśma parantapa । śaṇasarjarasaṁ vyaktamānītaṁ gr̥hakarmaṇi । muñjabalvajavaṁśādi dravyaṁ sarvaṁ ghr̥tōkṣitam ॥BORI: 1-134-14॥
It is clear, scorcher of foes, that this house has been made highly combustible. Hemp and sarja resin have plainly been brought in for its construction, and all the materials—muñja grass, balvaja grass, bamboo, and the like—have been soaked in ghee. (BORI: 1-134-14)
[PV-KDV:01_025_148]
śilpibhiḥ sukr̥taṁ hyāptairvinītairvēśmakarmaṇi । viśvastaṁ māmayaṁ pāpō dagdhukāmaḥ purōcanaḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-15॥
It was expertly built by trusted, obedient craftsmen skilled in house construction. This wicked Purocana intends to burn me when I am unsuspecting. (BORI: 1-134-15)
[PV-KDV:01_025_149]
imāṁ tu tāṁ mahābuddhirvidurō dr̥ṣṭavāṁstadā । āpadaṁ tēna māṁ pārtha sa sambōdhitavānpurā ॥BORI: 1-134-16॥
But the highly intelligent Vidura had foreseen this danger, O Partha, and for that reason had warned me beforehand. (BORI: 1-134-16)
[PV-KDV:01_025_150]
tē vayaṁ bōdhitāstēna buddhavantō’śivaṁ gr̥ham । ācāryaiḥ sukr̥taṁ gūḍhairduryōdhanavaśānugaiḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-17॥
Warned by him, we realized that the deadly house had been skillfully built by craftsmen secretly acting under Duryodhana’s orders. (BORI: 1-134-17)
[PV-KDV:01_025_151]
bhīma uvāca॥
Bhima said:
[PV-KDV:01_025_152]
yadidaṁ gr̥hamāgnēyaṁ vihitaṁ manyatē bhavān । tatraiva sādhu gacchāmō yatra pūrvōṣitā vayam ॥BORI: 1-134-18॥
If you believe that this house was built to be set on fire, then we should go back to the very place where we stayed before. (BORI: 1-134-18)
[PV-KDV:01_025_153]
yudhiṣṭhira uvāca॥
Yudhishthira said:
[PV-KDV:01_025_154]
iha yattairnirākārairvastavyamiti rōcayē । naṣṭairiva vicinvadbhirgatimiṣṭāṁ dhruvāmitaḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-19॥
I think they should remain here unrecognized, like men who are lost and searching for a safe and desirable way out of here. (BORI: 1-134-19)
[PV-KDV:01_025_155]
yadi vindēta cākāramasmākaṁ hi purōcanaḥ । śīghrakārī tatō bhūtvā prasahyāpi dahēta naḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-20॥
For if Purocana were to discover our whereabouts, he would act swiftly and burn us by force. (BORI: 1-134-20)
[PV-KDV:01_025_156]
nāyaṁ bibhētyupakrōśādadharmādvā purōcanaḥ । tathā hi vartatē mandaḥ suyōdhanamatē sthitaḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-21॥
Purocana fears neither public condemnation nor wrongdoing; for the fool acts in this way because he is devoted to Suyodhana’s designs. (BORI: 1-134-21)
[PV-KDV:01_025_157]
api cēha pradagdhēṣu bhīṣmō’smāsu pitāmahaḥ । kōpaṁ kuryātkimarthaṁ vā kauravānkōpayēta saḥ । dharma ityēva kupyēta tathānyē kurupuṅgavāḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-22॥
And even if we were burned to death here, why would our grandfather Bhishma become angry or provoke the Kauravas? He would be angry only for the sake of dharma, as would the other foremost Kurus. (BORI: 1-134-22)
[PV-KDV:01_025_158]
vayaṁ tu yadi dāhasya bibhyataḥ pradravēma hi । spaśairnō ghātayētsārvānrājyalubdhaḥ suyōdhanaḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-23॥
But if we fled for fear of being burned, Suyodhana, greedy for the kingdom, would have us all killed by his spies. (BORI: 1-134-23)
[PV-KDV:01_025_159]
apadasthānpadē tiṣṭhannapakṣānpakṣasaṁsthitaḥ । hīnakōśānmahākōśaḥ prayōgairghātayēddhruvam ॥BORI: 1-134-24॥
Secure in power while we are dispossessed, supported by allies while we have none, and possessed of a vast treasury while ours is depleted, he would surely have us killed through stratagems. (BORI: 1-134-24)
[PV-KDV:01_025_160]
tadasmābhirimaṁ pāpaṁ taṁ ca pāpaṁ suyōdhanam । vañcayadbhirnivastavyaṁ channavāsaṁ kvacitkvacit ॥BORI: 1-134-25॥
Therefore, we must live a hidden life, now here, now there, outwitting both this wicked man and the wicked Suyodhana. (BORI: 1-134-25)
[PV-KDV:01_025_161]
tē vayaṁ mr̥gayāśīlāścarāma vasudhāmimām । tathā nō viditā mārgā bhaviṣyanti palāyatām ॥BORI: 1-134-26॥
We are accustomed to hunting, so let us roam this land. In that way, the escape routes will become known to us. (BORI: 1-134-26)
[PV-KDV:01_025_162]
bhaumaṁ ca bilamadyaiva karavāma susaṁvr̥tam । gūḍhōcchvasānna nastatra hutāśaḥ sampradhakṣyati ॥BORI: 1-134-27॥
Let us make a well-concealed underground passage this very day. Because it has a hidden outlet, the fire will not burn us there. (BORI: 1-134-27)
[PV-KDV:01_025_163]
vasatō’tra yathā cāsmānna budhyēta purōcanaḥ । paurō vāpi janaḥ kaścittathā kāryamatandritaiḥ ॥BORI: 1-134-28॥
We must act vigilantly so that neither Purocana nor any of the townspeople realizes that we are living here. (BORI: 1-134-28)
[PV-KDV:01_025_164]
tr̥ṇabalvajakārpāsavaṁśadārukaṭānyapi । āgnēyānyatra kṣiptāni paritō vēśmanastathā ॥KUMB: 1-158-16॥
Grass, balvaja grass, cotton, bamboo, timber, and mats as well—all combustible—have likewise been placed here all around the house… (KUMB: 1-158-16)
[PV-SVO:01_025_165]
nityamasmaddhitaiṣiṇā ॥KUMB: 1-158-19; NILA: 01.146.018॥
by one who always seeks our welfare… (KUMB: 1-158-19; NILA: 01.146.018)
[PV-SVO:01_025_166]
pitrā kanīyasā snēhād ॥KUMB: 1-158-20; NILA: 01.146.019॥
by our younger paternal uncle, out of affection, (KUMB: 1-158-20; NILA: 01.146.019)
[PV-SVO:01_025_167]
darśayitvā pr̥thaggantuṁ na kāryaṁ pratibhāti mē । aśubhaṁ vā śubhaṁ vā syāttairvasāma sahaiva tu ॥KUMB: 1-158-22॥
Having shown ourselves, it does not seem right to me that we should go our separate way. Whether good or ill may come, let us live together with them. (KUMB: 1-158-22)
[PV-SVO:01_025_168]
adyaprabhr̥ti cāsmāsu gatēṣu bhayavihvalaḥ । rūḍhamūlō bhavēdrājyē dhārtarāṣṭrō janēśvaraḥ ॥KUMB: 1-158-23॥
From this day onward, once we are gone, the Dhartarashtra lord of men, overwhelmed by fear, would become firmly established in the kingdom. (KUMB: 1-158-23)
[PV-SVO:01_025_169]
tadīyaṁ tu bhavēdrājyaṁ tadīyāśca janā imē । tasmātsahaiva vatsyāmō galanyastapadā vayam ॥KUMB: 1-158-24॥
Yet the kingdom would be his, and these people would be his. Therefore we shall remain here with him, our feet planted on his neck. (KUMB: 1-158-24)
[PV-SVO:01_025_170]
asmākaṁ kālamāsādya rājyamācchidya śatrutaḥ । arthaṁ paitr̥kamasmākaṁ sukhaṁ bhōkṣyāma śāśvatam ॥KUMB: 1-158-25॥
When our time comes, we shall wrest the kingdom from the enemy and enjoy our ancestral wealth and lasting happiness. (KUMB: 1-158-25)
[PV-SVO:01_025_171]
dhr̥tarāṣṭravacō’smābhiḥ kimarthamanupālyatē । tēbhyō bhittvā’nyathāgantuṁ daurbalyaṁ tē kutō nr̥pa ॥KUMB: 1-158-26॥
Why should we obey Dhritarashtra’s command? O king, why are you too weak to break away from them and take a different course? (KUMB: 1-158-26)
[PV-SVO:01_025_172]
āpatsu rakṣitā’smākaṁ vidurō’sti mahāmatiḥ । madhyastha ēva gāṅgēyō rājyabhōgaparāṅmukhaḥ ॥KUMB: 1-158-27॥
The wise Vidura is our protector in times of danger. The son of Ganga remains neutral, being averse to the enjoyment of royal power. (KUMB: 1-158-27)
[PV-SVO:01_025_173]
bāhlīkapramukhā vr̥ddhā madhyasthā ēva sarvadā । asmadīyō bhavēddrōṇaḥ phalgunaprēmasaṁyutaḥ ॥KUMB: 1-158-28॥
The elders led by Bahlika are always neutral, while Drona, though fond of Phalguna, would be on our side. (KUMB: 1-158-28)
[PV-SVO:01_025_174]
tasmātsahaiva vastavyaṁ na gantavyaṁ kathaṁ nr̥pa । athavāsmāsu tē kuryuḥ kimaśaktāḥ parākramaiḥ ॥KUMB: 1-158-29॥
Therefore we must remain together and under no circumstances leave, O king. Or what could they do to us, powerless as they are in feats of arms? (KUMB: 1-158-29)
[PV-SVO:01_025_175]
kṣudrāḥ kapaṭinō dhūrtā jāgratsu manujēśvara । kiṁ na kuryuḥ purā mahyaṁ kiṁ na dattaṁ mahāviṣam ॥KUMB: 1-158-30॥
—those base, deceitful rogues—while we are awake, O lord of men? What did they not do to me before? Was I not given deadly poison? (KUMB: 1-158-30)
[PV-SVO:01_025_176]
āśīviṣairmahāghōraiḥ sarpaistaiḥ kiṁ na daṁśitaḥ । pramāṇakōṭyāṁ saṁgr̥hya nidrāparavaśē mayi ॥KUMB: 1-158-31॥
After they seized me at Pramanakoti while I was overcome by sleep, was I not bitten by those exceedingly fearsome venomous snakes? (KUMB: 1-158-31)
[PV-SVO:01_025_177]
sarpairdr̥ṣṭiviṣairgōrairgaṅgāyāṁ śūlasantatau । kiṁ tairna pātitō bhūpa tadā kiṁ mr̥tavānaham ॥KUMB: 1-158-32॥
Was I not thrown by them, O king, into the Ganges, amid a mass of spikes and terrible snakes whose very gaze was venomous? Did I die then? (KUMB: 1-158-32)
[PV-SVO:01_025_178]
āpatsu tāsu ghōrāsu duṣprayuktāsu pāpibhiḥ । asmānarakṣadyō dēvō jagadyasya vaśē sthitam ॥KUMB: 1-158-33॥
In those terrible dangers, wickedly contrived by evildoers, the god in whose power the world rests protected us. (KUMB: 1-158-33)
[PV-SVO:01_025_179]
carācarātmakaṁ sō’dya yātaḥ kutra nr̥pōttama । yāvatsōḍhavyamasmābhistāvatsōḍhāsmi yatnataḥ ॥KUMB: 1-158-34॥
composed of moving and unmoving beings. Where has he gone now, O best of kings? As long as we must endure, I shall make every effort to endure. (KUMB: 1-158-34)
[PV-SVO:01_025_180]
yadā na śakṣyatē’smābhistadā paśyāma nō hitam । kiṁ draṣṭavyamihāsmābhirvigr̥hya tarasā balāt ॥KUMB: 1-158-35॥
When we can no longer bear it, we shall consider what is best for us. What is there for us to gain here by rushing violently into conflict? (KUMB: 1-158-35)
[PV-SVO:01_025_181]
sāntvavādēna dānēna bhēdēnāpi yatāmahē । ardharājyasya saṁprāptyai tatō daṇḍaḥ praśasyatē ॥KUMB: 1-158-36॥
Let us strive to obtain half the kingdom through conciliation, gifts, or even dissension; only then is force advisable. (KUMB: 1-158-36)
[PV-SVO:01_025_182]
tasmātsahaiva vastavyaṁ tanmanōrpitaśalyavat । darśayitvā pr̥thak kvāpi na gantavyaṁ subhītavat ॥KUMB: 1-158-37॥
Therefore, we must remain together, like a thorn lodged in their minds, and must not go off separately anywhere, making ourselves appear utterly afraid. (KUMB: 1-158-37)
[PV-SVO:01_025_183]
upapannaṁ tu dagdhēṣu kulavaṁśānukīrtitāḥ । kupyēranyadi dharmajñāstathānyē kurupuṅgavāḥ ॥KUMB: 1-158-43॥
But if, once they have been burned, the foremost Kurus—men versed in dharma and others renowned for their family lineage—should become angry, that is only to be expected. (KUMB: 1-158-43)
[PV-SVO:01_025_184]