Indraprastha or War
Krishna’s reply
After Yudhishtira declared that they (the Pandavas) would abide by Krishna’s decision, Krishna spoke.
“Dhritrashtra has no business to talk about dharma to the ever-righteous Yudhishtira.
Droupadi’s humiliation alone was sufficient reason to wage a war and annihilate the perpetrators. Yet Yudhishtira displayed immense patience because of his righteousness. He has always had and always will follow the path of dharma. Punishing the Kauravas and reclaiming what is rightfully his, is the Kshatriya dharma which he is following.
We understand that Dhritrashtra is keen on avoiding war for he fears for the lives of his sons. We too want peace for the same reason... we fear for their lives too.
Yet, it is to be conveyed that if the kingdom is returned to Yudhishtira, the preparation for war will end and peace will prevail.
I will come to Hastinapura to speak sense to Duryodhana. If Duryodhana does not heed my words, this message of Dhritrashtra will be answered by the arrows of the Pandavas!”
It is to be noted that Krishna who was Naarayana himself, knew fully well that there would be a war. Yet he made a show of this attempt at pre-empting war, to serve as a model for people to emulate.
Yudhishtira made a promise to Sanjaya, “Give back Indraprastha and there will be no war!”
Arjuna’s anger
Not toeing the soft tone of Yudhishtira, Arjuna angrily declared, “If Duryodhana refuses to free Indraprastha from its bondage, he will have to contend with us four. For making our brother Yudhishtira lie on the ground for twelve years in the forest, we will ensure that they lie down on the battle field.
If Yudhishtira’s anger is aroused, the fire of his wrath is capable of burning down the Kauravas.
If Duryodhana wants war, let there be war...for Bheema will appear as Yama himself, wielding a mace and killing all hundred of them!”
Yudhishtira’s volte-face
As the atmosphere became charged with Krishna’s stern message and Arjuna’s angry outburst, Yudhishtira became his conciliatory self. Without consulting Krishna or his brothers, he offered an olive branch. He said, “Tell Duryodhana, that we will be happy with just five cities... Indraprastha, Vrikaprastha, Jayantha, Varanavata, and any other city of their choice.”
A distressed Sanjaya conveyed to the upset Pandavas that he was merely a messenger, making his stance clear. He was assured by the Pandavas that they knew him well and were aware that he was merely a carrier of the vile message.
Back in Hastinapur, Sanjaya met an eager Dhritrashtra, but declared that he would reveal the message of the Pandavas in the open court the next day!
To be continued...