Mahabharata: The Condensed Version of the World's Greatest Epic

by Krishna Dharma

After hurling various kinds of insults at the Pandavas, who silently tolerated the abuse, Dushasana then turned to Draupadi and said, “Your father foolishly bestowed you upon these impotent men. What will you gain by serving them? Abandon them and select a worthy husband from among the Kauravas.” Bhima suddenly started toward Dushasana as a mountain lion might rush upon a deer. Seeing Yudhishthira’s frown he checked himself with difficulty and loudly rebuked the Kaurava prince. “Crooked-minded wretch, thanks to Shakuni’s skill at dice you arrogantly blather on. Know for certain that I will pierce your heart in battle, just as you now pierce our hearts with arrow-like words.” Dushasana burst out laughing. He again danced around and pointed at Bhima, calling out insults. Bhima, his mind fixed in virtue, restrained himself from killing the prince on the spot. Having put on the deerskins, the Pandavas began to walk slowly out of the hall. Duryodhana walked behind them, caricaturing Bhima’s powerful gait. Seeing this, Bhima coldly said, “I shall be Duryodhana’s slayer. Felling him in a mace fight I will place my foot on his head. Arjuna will slay Karna and Sahadeva will kill the gambler Shakuni.” Arjuna fixed his gaze on Karna and said, “All this will surely come to pass. The promises of powerful men are not mere words. This malicious, vain and envious wretch will die at my hand, along with anyone who is foolish enough to support him.”