Ran-Sringas and large Drums announced the unfolding of the grand Swayam Var of Yagnaseni which even the Gods from the heavens came to witness.

The crescent moon-shaped open Sabha stood in the heart of Kampilya. The arena was specially built to host Draupadi's Swayam Var which exudes grandeur with its magnificent architecture and lavish decorations. Intricate motifs were curved in red sandstone and precious jewels were embedded into the ornate pillars. Sun's gracious rays fell on those gems making them look like twinkling stars. Garlands and floral arrangements of various colourful, sweet-smelling exotic flowers, fragrant resin, and incense burning in ornate golden censers filled the air with a divine scent. Fine drapes of red and yellow, chains of gold and diamonds hanging in every corner of the Arena made it radiate like Indra's Sabha in the heavens. At the head of the Arena facing the entrance, King Drupad's large golden throne was placed in a lavishly decorated compartment. Beside the king's throne on both sides sat three similar but comparatively smaller thrones, one on the right and two on the left. Circling the arena various other compartments could be seen, decorated with artefacts from different kingdoms reserved for the royals of that place. From behind the royal compartments, a vast gallery stretched upwards filled to the brim with onlookers. Particular gallery areas were allotted to various castes and groups of people.

A large golden ceremonial water vessel was placed in the heart of the arena on a dias. The glorious bow stand remained vacant on its side, waiting to hold the mighty Kindhura. The dias had a very high roof above it supported by tall ornate pillars. A rotating golden fish and a spinning disc with a small hole at its centre hung from the ceiling.

King Drupad didn't hesitate to show off his wealth in front of his elite guests. The common subjects of Panchal gazed at the arrangements of the Swayam Var of their only princess with wide eyes and open mouths. Some gaped looking at the vast decorations, some at the setup for the competition. Did anyone notice the sour smiles appearing on some of their faces? If one could look inside their minds, one would see the bitterness they felt towards their King at that moment. All these lavish extravagances came at the cost of their hard-earned money which the king collected as taxes. But who cares about that? Just like everyone sings the praise of the King instead of the underpaid workers and architects whose blood turned into sweat while building the masterpiece. But at the end of the day, all they were able to do was watch, nothing else.

Fragrant flower petals were being showered as Panchal Raj Drupad entered the arena with Rajkumar Dhrishtadyumna beside him. Dressed in luxurious clothing, precious jewels, and his golden crown Drupad walked in carrying an aura of authority and went to sit on his throne. Dhrishtadyumna took his seat on the single throne on the right side of his father.

After them, one by one the guests and suitors came in as their names and their heroic deeds were being announced.

On top of the majestic entrance sat a group of musicians with their Clarinets, and Tablas. The cheerful sweet tunes and the young male and female dancers entertained the spectators. Neatly dressed Das and Dasis served them refreshments. After all the royals were settled in their respective sports, Drupad stood up and offered his gratitude towards all the royals who attended the grand Swayam Var of his daughter, the only princess of Panchal, Yagnaseni Draupadi. 

-"To the noble rulers and esteemed princes of Aryavarth, who have travelled from distant lands, your presence here today graces this occasion with significance and grandeur. Your esteemed presence not only honours us but also enriches the sacred traditions that bind our kingdoms together. It is with immense pleasure and honour that I extend a warm welcome to each one of you on this auspicious occasion. Today marks a momentous event in the history of our kingdom, as we gather here to celebrate the Swayam Var of my beloved daughter, Yagnaseni Draupadi. She, who is born from the sacrificial fire of the Yagna and is the most beautiful woman of this age.

The princess of Panchal, Panchali, the epitome of grace, beauty, and virtue, stands before us today, ready to choose her spouse, her companion in the journey of life. Her wisdom and kindness have illuminated our lives, and today, she embarks on a new chapter filled with hopes and promises.

As the father of the bride, I am overwhelmed with joy and pride to witness this gathering of illustrious guests. Your presence here signifies the bond of friendship and camaraderie that exists between our kingdoms, transcending boundaries and fostering unity. Anyone who wins her hand today will no doubt be the luckiest man to ever live on this earth. I sincerely hope you will love and cherish her for the rest of your life.

And lastly, before we start today's auspicious occasion I would like to welcome our chief guest today, Dwarkadheesh Vasudev Shree Krishna."

-"All hail to Dwarkadheesh Vasudev Shree Krishna." Loud cheers from the crowd could be heard and all eyes were set on the entrance in anticipation of seeing the person who was apparently the Avatar of Shree Vishnu.

He entered, hands folded in front of his chest, and the sweet smile playing on his face. His golden yellow attire contrasted his deep complexion perfectly. The peacock feather on top of his glorious crown stirred as a gentle breeze passed him and brought a scent of Kadamba and Parijat to the nostrils of the spectators.

The smell of Parijat caused the eyes to turn towards a figure that appeared beside him. Dressed in a golden chest plate and a slate blue Sharee draped over it, walked in, a woman warrior. She walked with her head held high, wearing a turban in the same colour as her saree. The turban was adorned with a tear-drop-shaped sapphire, strings of rare blue pearls, and a single white peacock feather. Her wavy waist-length hair cascaded down her back, swaying as she walked. Her face was covered by a veil, with only her deep, dark kohl-laden eyes, resembling that of a fish visible to onlookers.

Krishna bowed down to the crowd and curtsied in front of Drupad. Instead of going to his reserved seat, he made his way towards the royal compartment to address and greet all the kings present in the Sabha, personally. Except for Shishupala, Jarasandha, and his brother-in-law, the crown prince of Vidarbha, Rukmi all other kings accosted him respectfully. Shishupala's eyes lingered on the woman's curves for a few extra moments. He couldn't help but feel a burning desire for her. He shifted his attention to his long-time friend Jarasandha and started telling him about the temptress he had bumped into the previous day, his voice filled with lust and desire. Krishna's jaw clenched upon hearing their lewd conversation about his sister. The woman beside him tugged the end of his Angavastra and led him away from them. With a slight shake of her head, she closed her eyes and calmed him down. He obliged not to create a scene before the Swayam Var started. He took a deep breath and the smile returned to his face as he moved ahead.

 At last, he went on to greet the Kurus. His companion, the woman, internally panicked as they approached the place where Gandhar Raj Shakuni, Kuru Yuvraj Duryodhan, Rajkumar Dushasan, Ahichatra-Naresh Ashwatthama, and Angaraj Karna were seated. She passed Krishna a worried glance which he chose not to acknowledge. Only a sly smile appeared on the corner of his lips. 

He started by addressing his favourite rival, "Pranam Mamashree Shakuni. If I was looking forward to meeting any of the guests here, it was you, Mamashree. I have heard so much about the great Gandhar Raj Shakuni. What a pleasure to finally meet you." he said in an overly sweet voice.

Shakuni though uncomfortable internally returned his gesture, "Vasudev, the pleasure is all mine, the pleasure is all mine. I was so keen to meet you, of all people. I have also heard only great things about you. And now I can see how all of it is true as you just me Mamashree as if I am your relative."  Though he felt a slight discomfort as Krishna addressed him as Mamashree, he maintained his composure.  

 "But you are my relative, Mamashree. The five Pandavas and the Kauravas are all your cousins. That makes you my uncle, just as much as theirs."  Krishna replied in the same tone as before. 

Shakuni's glance once shifted toward the female warrior standing beside him. To ease his discomfort he was about to make a mocking statement about Vasudev Krishna needing a female bodyguard. But at the last moment, he decided against it. He thought that was the right place or time. His prime focus at that moment should be Duryodhan winning the hand of the Princess of Panchal. 

Krishna passed him one last smile and went to address Duryodhan, Dushasan, Ashwatthama, and lastly Karna. They greeted him back humbly, Karna and Ashwatthama out of genuine respect and Duryodhan and Dushasan as they were advised to do so by their Uncle. 

The woman kept looking the other way to avoid the Amber pair of eyes that had been set on her since the moment she entered the arena. She knew if she looked into those eyes she wouldn't be able to hold back her emotions and keep the act going.

Krishna noticed Karna's eyes and decided to play around a little with his sister. After some small talk, he innocently asked Karna, "So, after all this time you finally decided to participate in a Swayam Var, Angaraj?" Krishna passed him an apologetic look as he addressed Karna as 'Angaraj' and not 'Bhrata Karna'. Karna with a slight shake of his head conveyed the message that he didn't mind his formal addressing in public and went on to answer his question. 

Tiasha took in a sharp breath. She felt her heart pounding inside her chest. She clenched on the side of her Sharee waiting for his reply. She knew she wouldn't be able to take it if he answered positively to his question. Krishna side-eyed her rigid and anxious posture, absolutely amused. 

Karna said, "No Vasudev, I am not taking part in this Swayam Var. I am not willing to take part in any Swayam Var. I am here to support my Mitra Duryodhan. And then again, I am not officially invited to this ceremony. I am just a representative of a small Kingdom, there are far more prosperous and powerful Kings and Princes present in this Court. And I am a suta..." 

Duryodhan stopped him before he could finish his sentence, "You may be, the King of a small kingdom but I can swear on my life Mitra, You are better than everyone present in this court."

Krishna smiled, Duryodhan might have done a lot of bad things, but he is a true friend there is no denying that. You might dislike him for a lot of things, but of all things, one rare quality he had was loyalty, genuine admiration, and trust in his friends. 

-"I have to agree with Bhrata Duryodhan on that Angaraj. What do you say, Kaushiki?" Krishna asked, looking at Tiasha. The men turned their attention towards her in curiosity and astonishment. Tiasha approved with a curt nod.

If looks could kill, Krishna thought, by then he would have turned into dust, in at least ten universes. He feared he would get an ear full for this later. Without waiting for the men to speak any further and to avoid making the situation worse for himself, he hastily interjected, "Oh dear, how I lost track of time. The Swayam Var is about to begin. Pardon me, Gentlemen, it seems like we have to reserve our chat for some other time."

They offered him a polite smile as Krishna parted from them. He took his place beside King Drupad. The two men exchanged a few words and Drupad instructed the Dasis to bring Draupadi to the Arena.

Tiasha made her way towards the central dais where she was soon joined by Dhrishtadyumna. 

Dhrishtadyumna started explaining the rules of competition. 

-"As we gather here today for Draupadi's Swayamvar, I, Dhrishtadyumna, her brother and the protector of our family's honour, am honoured to outline the conditions and rules of this esteemed competition.

Firstly, let it be known that only those princes and kings who possess the courage, valour, and integrity worthy of Draupadi's hand in marriage are invited to participate. 

Unlike any other Swayam Var, where a princess chooses her Husband, here the suitors have to string the mighty Kindhura Dhanu and hit the eye of the rotating fish through the hole in that spinning disc. The participants are not allowed to look at the target directly. You have to shoot the target while looking at its reflection in the water vessel. 

May the most deserving suitor win Draupadi's heart and may this Swayamvar be remembered as a moment of joy, unity, and harmony."

As soon as Dhrishtadyumna finished, the Clarinets stopped and the Ran-Sringas and Drums once again started playing. 

-"Behold the entrance of Rajkumari Draupadi, the sole of Panchal, the most stunning and magnificent princess to ever grace the face of this Earth, and the pride and joy of Maharaj Drupad!"

Her attendants parted to both sides revealing behind them, Draupadi standing at the threshold, resplendent in her bridal attire. Her silhouette framed by the golden rays of the sun, exuded an aura of grace, elegance, and confidence that captivated all who beheld her.

Draupadi moved forward gracefully, exuding poise and dignity, flowers showered upon her from above. Her every movement seemed to be in sync with the rhythm of a thousand melodies. She was adorned in exquisite silks and decorated with precious jewels, making her the epitome of beauty and grace. With each step, Draupadi's eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and determination, her gaze resolute as she surveyed the gathered princes and kings. Her heart was beating fast with anticipation, fully aware that this moment would mark the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

As Draupadi made her grand entrance into the arena, a sudden hush fell over the gathered assembly as if the very air had been sucked out of the room in reverence to her presence. The murmurs of admiration and awe rippled through the crowd, like a wave crashing onto a shore, as each guest was unable to tear their gaze away from the resplendent figure before them. Her poise was regal, her aura radiating a magnetic charm that drew every eye towards her. With measured steps, she walked towards the ceremonial dais, her cape trailing behind her like a stream of gold, where her brother, eagerly waiting, stood in awe of his sister's magnificence. 

She stood beside the female warrior. King Drupad and Krishna stood up from their seats. Krishna directed Tiasha, "Kaushiki, please summon Kindhura." 

Hearing Krishna's words only five men among the guests stood up to pay their respect to Mahadev's mighty bow 'Kindhura'. 

Tiasha nodded. She closed her eyes and spread her hands in front of her. Draupadi, Dhrishtadyumna, Drupad, Krishna, and the five men among the guests who stood up joined their hands as a huge bow appeared on Tiasha's hands. She placed it on the golden bow stand, sat on her knees, and touched it to her forehead. 

When she stood up the Clarinets started playing again and with Dhrishtadyumna and Tiasha on her side Drupadi made her way to the throne. 

Draupadi and Dhrishtadyumna sat on their respective thrones and Tiasha stood in the middle of Krishna and Draupadi's throne. Krishna threw Tiasha an apologetic look which she dismissed with an eye roll and a playful tap on his arm. Krishna smiled and shook his head. 

An announcer started calling the participants one by one. They came and all their failed tries to lift the bow from the stand ended up being ludicrous scenes for the audience. They clenched their jaws, sweated all over, bared their teeth, and tried lifting it on their shoulders but in the end, nothing worked and they had to go back to their seats, heads hanging low in embarrassment. 

-"A common female warrior can lift it but the mighty Chedi Naresh, can't even move it an inch..."

-"Are they truly warriors? They can't even lift a bow which a female placed on the dais."

-"If Yuvraj Rukmi can't even win a simple competition for a Swayam Var, how is he going to rule his Kingdom in the future? How will he protect his Subjects?"

The walk of shame back to their seats became more for the kings as various mocking comments flew around them. Their fragile egos shattered and a storm of anger raged inside their hearts with one ringing laughter above all. Their venomous gaze showered upon the Royals of Panchal.

Draupadi laughed uncontrollably at the miserable failures of the kings and the princes. Drupad encouraged her by joining in. Krishna and Tiasha exchanged a look of worry. They had no other option but to remain silent. Disapproval is evident in their features but they can't oppose the host. They were guests, outsiders after all.

The humiliation continued until Magadh Naresh Jarasandha. His heavy steps echoed through the Arena as he walked towards the dais. He folded his hands and paid his respect to his istadev's bow. He was one among the five who stood up during the summoning of the bow. His face turned red and sweat bids formed on his forehead as he lifted the bow with great efforts. The crowd exploded into cheers but it didn't last long. 

With all his strength he was able to bend the bow a little but couldn't hold it to tie the string. With a greater force, the bow recoiled and threw Jarasandh back from the dais. He wasn't able to stand the sudden impact and fell to the ground. 

The loud cheers turned into louder peals of laughter. Jarasandh stood up on his feet and pointed his fingers towards Draupadi and Drupad, who were doubling up in laughter. His entire body shook in rage as he said, "Panchal Raj Drupad, you have conspired with that trickster cowherd and invited us here to insult. None of the mighty warriors of Aryavarth can lift this bow which was summoned by a female. Enough of your tricks, if none of the remaining participants can lift this, you will have to fight a war against all of us together, for the insults you have caused. I promise we will end your pathetic existence and your daughter will have to remain unmarried as a dasi in our kingdoms." 

Draupadi's face turned grim and she looked at Krishna. Krishna patted her hand to assure her. 

Drupad stood up and answered in an arrogant tone, "Your lack of masculinity is not my daughter's fault, Magadh Naresh."

-"Panchal Raj..." swords shined in Jarasandh, Shishupala, Rukmi and several other's hands as soon as those words came out of Drupad's mouth. 

Krishna had to step forward, "This is an auspicious and joyous occasion of a Swayam Var Respected Kings. Maharaj Drupad, you don't want your daughter's wedding ceremony to turn into a war zone, Do you?" 

Drupad sat down with a slight growl and the Kings too settled down, throwing him a dirty look.

Next, it was Duryodhan's turn. And as expected he failed. He was able to lift the bow a few inches from the stand but no further.

As the waves of laughter continued he accused Panchal Raj, "King Drupad, Not all of us are as profoundly skilled in archery, let alone you have set an impossible target like that and a bow almost nobody can lift. This is not a fair competition."

-"We want a skilled archer as my sister's husband. It is about our and my sister's choice of who we want, Yuvraj Duryodhan." Dhrishtadyumna replied. 

Duryodhan said, "I am a wrestler and a mace fighter. I surely would have won if it was a wrestling competition. So it's only fair if I choose someone as my representative to win this competition for me. And who can be a better choice than my dear friend, the best archer in the entire Universe, Maharathi Angaraj Karna." 

Blood drained from Tiasha's face. She knew what was about to happen and she dreaded the outcome of the situation. But if even the outcome changed, she knew she wouldn't be able to take it. She wouldn't be able to see him marry someone else...

Krishna held his sister's hand which was set on the armrest of his throne. He saw her teary eyes and caressed her palm with his thumb. 

-"You have already had your chance, Yuvraj. We can not allow you to have another try. If we make an exception for you we will have to grant another chance to all the other Kings. And as a condition of the competition, one needs to win it for themselves not for someone else." Dhrishtadyumna said.

-"Then, my friend will win it for himself."

-XX-

This chapter took me so much time to finish. And this part of the story is not even finished yet. What happens next? Stay tuned to know more. 😉 Let me know your thoughts on this chapter as well.

Subho Nobo-borso to you all from me, as today is the Bengali New Year. And all my love and best wishes to everyone who celebrates the Hindu New Year at this time of the year, across the country by different names and dates.

Thank you all so much for reading and being patient with me. Another thank you for the votes and all your lovely comments.

Take care, everyone, I will see you soon with another update very soon, Adiós.❤️