It was a beautiful day, with the sun"s warm rays lighting up everything. The greenary of the dense thicket was scenic. Dotted with the most vibrantly coloured flowers & various small animals, birds & insects frolicking about, the environment was nothing short of picturesque.
A family had of six, five warriors & their mother walked along, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

The eldest of the brothers, had a complexion rivalling even the purest of gold, glowing magnificently in the sun. Every feature of his appeared to have been sculpted with immense prescision & perfection the most skilled of craftsmans. However, his kind heart was way more divine in comparison to his physical features.

Ajatshatru as he was known, was the divine son of Lord Dharmraj & the best of men, the most righteous, pious man to walk the earth. His name came from the fact that his heart was too full of compassion to harbour any feelings of animosity towards anyone. As such he, the eldest prince of Hastinapur was the only man ever to not have a single enemy.

The worry in his copper hued orbs was instant, seeing his strong, loving giant of a brother look so very sad.
Bheem, the divine son of Lord Vayu & the second eldest Pandav had been heartbroken to leave behind his wife & son, but it had to be done.

Dharmraj Yudhishthir felt torn at the thought that he may have been the cause of such a pain to his beloved brother.
Bheem broke out of his reverie when he felt the most soothing touch on his shoulder. This was a touch that had the power to calm him immediately even when in an animalistic rage & also to make him forget all his pains.

Y: Mere priya anuj, apne jyeshth ke liye ek baar has do.....

( My dear younger brother, please smile once for the sake of your elder brother...)

The righteous prince pleaded, & Bheem relented grinning up at him vibrantly, easing Yudhishthir's aching heart.

Bheem 's heart was far too overwhelmed, brimming with love for his family. His mere smile meant the world to him. He was really blessed.

Ar: Vo dekhiye! Kampilya!
( Look! Kampilya!)

Arjun pointed out as they stood atop a hill from where they could see the beautiful Kampilya, the capital city of King Drupad. Though they initially had no plans to visit the city, their destiny brought them there.

As they walked through the streets of the vibrant city bustling with activity, Dharmraj 's concerned gaze fell on their mother. A quick exchange of looks with his other brothers later it was decided that they needed to now find a place to stay, so that their mother could rest.

Looking around, Dharmraj spotted a potter, busy shaping up pots from the wet mud, ready to be baked & polished.
Y: Pranipaat mahoday......
( Greetings, sir!)

The eldest Pandava greeted the elderly potter with the utmost reverence.

P: Pranipaat.....
The pottee greeted back with a friendly smile, glancing at what appeared to be a family of five sons & their mother.
P: Pravaasi ho?
( Are you travellers? )

He enquired as he continued to work on his pot, & Yudhishthir nodded.

Y: Ji...Ekchakra nagar se aaye hai, Naimisaranya jana hai...kya aap yaha kisi dharmshala ka marg bata sakte hai? Badi kripa hogi aapki.

( Yes....we come from the city of Ekchakra & are headed to Naimisaranya. Could you guide us to a nearby shelter? It would be a great favour. )

Yudhishthir requested politely, & the potter sighed.

P: Kshyama karna, yaha ki sabhi Dharmshalayein bhari padi hai. Maharaj Drupad ne humaari rajkumari Draupadi ka Swayamwar jo racha hai. Kuch samay purv, maharaj ko yagya devta se ek putri praapt hui thi. Divya hai Panchaal kumari, sakshyat Devtao ka prasaad hai, yagya vedi se janmi hai.

( Forgive me, but all the shelters are full. King Drupad had organised the self choice ceremony of our princess Draupadi. The king was blessed with a daughter by the lord of the sacrificial fire, done time back. Our princess is divine, she is the sacred offering from the gods themselves, born out of the sacred fire.)

The potter told them with a proud, happy smile. However, seeing the tired Kunti, who was trying hard to mask it, he decided to offer them what he could.

P: Maata ne bhojan kiya?
(Has your mother eaten?)

He enquired softly, & recieved a negative answer just as he'd thought.

P: Aap log bheetar ajaiyye.....
( Come inside, all of you.....)

He invited warmly, not wanting to disrespect the Brahmins.

Y: Hum kritagya hai, mahoday. Kintu aapko humaari sewa sweekar karni hogi, keval tab hum aapka diya kuch bhi sweekar karne mein samarth honge.

( We are grateful, sir. However, you must accept our services, only then will we be able to partake anything you provide.)

Yudhishthir told him with folded hands on behalf of his family who wanted to earn their keep & not burden the old, kind hearted Potter.

Pleased with their morals & respectful behaviour, the potter warmly ushered them inside, seating them & asking his daughter to serve them cool water.

P: Kya aap brahman hai?
( Are you all Brahmins? )

He enquired politely as his guests gratefully partook the much needed drink.
Dharmraj set his glass down & spoke...

Y: Vesh toh bhrahmano ka hi dharan kiya hai, mahoday....

( We are dressed as Brahmins do, sir.)

He answered calmly, not divulging anymore details than necessary. The potter nodded thoughtfully.
P: Aadha satya bolte ho, putra....
( You say half of the truth, son....)

He couldn't help but smile when the eldest Pandava offered him a serene, calm smile which was just infections & could calm & bring peace to the wildest & angriest of persons.

P: Ji, Kshyama kijiye. Main asatya nahi bolta. Mujhe gyaat hai ki aadhe satya mein aadha asatya bhi nihit hota hai, atah aaj ke pashchaat yadi mere mukh sampoorn satya ke atirikt kuch nikle, toh ishwar mujhe dandit karenge.

Kripya iss vishay mein aur koi prashna na kijiye. Main aapko uttar nahi de paaunga.

( Forgive me, sir. I do not lie. I understand that half a truth consists of half a lie too, hence from now on if anything but the complete truth leaves my mouth, the almighty shall punish me.
Kindly, ask me no more questions on this matter. I will be unable to answer them.)

The young kaunteya spoke, further winning the heart of their host as well as his family.

S: Hum aapki kya sewa kar sakte hai, mahoday, kripya sankoch na karein....

( How may we serve you, sir? Kindly do not hesitate....)

The youngest, wise Madreya spoke & his brothers nodded in agreement.
The potter smiled, already far too impressed with this righteous family.
P: Kumhaar hoon, ab vridh hogaya hoon toh mitti khodne ka karya atyant kathin lagta hai. Tum yuva ho, aur balishth dikhayi dete ho, saralta se khod loge. Toh mitti tum le aao, bhojan aur vishraam main dunga.

( I'm a potter, but old now & so I find the task of digging mud exceedingly difficult. You are young & appear strong, you will be able to dig it easily. You bring me the mud, I shall arrange for food & shelter. )

The potter suggested, looking to see if they were agreeable.

Y: Avashya, hume sweekarya hai....
( Of course, we agree....)

Yudhishthir informed him, after obtaining the consent of his family. The potter nodded, before exiting the room he had alloted to them.

Y: Vrikodar, chalo aaj hum dono mitti le aate hai. Anujo, tum sabhi yahi raho aur vishram karo, aur humaari maata ka dhyaan rakho. Hum shigra laut aayenge.

( Vrikodar, come let us both bring the mud today. Brothers, you all rest here & take care of our mother. We will return soon.)

Yudhishthir spoke as he got up to leave. He & Bheem bent to take the blessings of Kunti.

Ar: Nahi Jyeshth aap vishraam kijiye, main chala jaata hoon bhrata ke saath....
Arjun offered, not wanting to be resting when his elder brothers were working.

( No eldest you rest, I shall go with brother....)

Nakul & Sahadev too offered to go to dig out the mud.

Y: Nahi anujo, tum sabhi ne bohot samay tak palki uthayi thi. Ab apne shareer ko vishraam do, anyatha tumhara swasthya bigad sakta hai...hmm?

( No brothers, you all carried the palanquin for a long time. Now rest your bodies, or you may fall sick...hmm?)

Yudhishthir told them ever so affectionately, gently ruffling their hair, making them feel like the most blessed little brothers with such a doting, caring brother. Arjun closed his eyes to revel in the loving caress of his brother who was their biggest support system.

The younger three Pandavas exchanged smiles. Obviously, their elder brother had neglected the fact that he too had carried the palanquin with them. How could someone be so full of love & without even an ounce of selfishness?

Ar: Jyeshth bhrata, aap kripya ye avashya sunishchit kijiyega ki bhrata Bheem thodi kam mitti khode. Mitte ke ghade banane ke liye aavashyakta hai, parvat banane ke liye nahi.....

( Eldest brother, kindly ensure that brother Bheem digs a little less quantity of mud. The mud is required to make pots, not a mountain....)

Arjun, Nakul & Sahadev snickered, & Bheem growled playfully, yanking a laughing Arjun to him with a bulky arm around his neck. Immediately the three stopped laughing. Yudhishthir looked on, smiling at their antics.

Arjun grunted at this rather tough love, before Bheem ruffled his hair & let him go.
S: Bhrata Arjun aap swasth to hai na? Bhrata Bheem aap prem karte hai ya hatya ka prayas kuch samajh nahi aata!

( Brother Arjun are you okay? Brother Bheem, I'm unable to understand whether you are showering us with affection or trying to kill us! )

Sahadev inquired with a perplexed expression making Bheem narrow his eyes to slits while Kunti & Yudhishthir shook their heads in exasperation, chuckling slightly.

Y: Ab chalo bhi! Sandhya kaal se pehle lautna hai hume, bhai! Chalo!

( Come on now! We have to return back before evening, brother. Cone!)

Saying so, the two elder Pandavas left the house.

Kunti watched all of this with an adoring smile on her face. Her sons were her pride, & seeing their immeasurable love for each other was just heartwarming.

*****

Panchaal Royal Palace:

The splendid Yagyaseni, was inquisitive as ever. From the day she had stepped out as a full grown woman from the sacred fire, every creation, custom & living habit of man had intrigued her.

She sat at her dressing table in her spacious chambers, decorated in shades of red & gold in the most regal manner.
Sh: Kitni Sundar lagrahi hai meri pyaari behen...
Shikandini gushed, as she lovingly adorned her sister with a beautiful golden necklace with few but we'll placed glistening precious stones.

Draupadi smiled, delighted that her sister had spared time especially for her from her rather busy schedule as the commander-in-chief of Panchaal, to help her & educate her with regards to her upcoming Swayamwar.

The thought of her Swayamvar made the fireborn so very nervous. It hadn't been too long since her birth, & was still grasping several things about the world. She'd never had the time until before a few days ago to think what she would admire in her husband.

While Krishnaa had no dreams of a prince charming rushing in on a white horse, & swaying her off her feet, her deepest wish was to be respected & cherished by the man she would share her life with.

He need not be overwhelmingly wealthy or exceedingly handsome but had to possess a beautiful, compassionate heart. He would not sway her off her feet with a litter of gifts or known sweet wordings but with just a smile of his that would make her forget any pain she felt.

Sh: Draupadi....
Shikhandini called, placing a hand on her sister's shoulder, bringing Draupadi out of her thoughts.
Sh: Gurumata padhaari hai....

( Gurumata has arrived....)

She informed, indicating towards a dignified looking older woman with a kind smile.

D: Pranipaat, Gurumata! Aapse bhet karna ki meri param ichcha thi. Mujhe, mere Swayamwar samaroh ki ritiyon ka gyaan dene ki kripa karein maata!

( Greetings Gurumata! It was my biggest desire to meet you. Kindly guide me about the rituals & customs of my upcoming Self choice ceremony, mother!)

The young, pious princess bent to touch the feet of the revered priestess, & obtain her auspicious blessings.

G: Aapka sada kalyan ho, rajkumari!
( May you stay blessed always, princess!)

She blessed, delighted on finding on that the much beloved princess of Panchaal was even more courteous, impeccably well mannered, unbelievably beautiful yet immensely humble.

Gently seating the princess back, the royal priestess took the beautiful vessel containing a special sacred oil.

G: Ye pavitra, prasad ka tel hai rajkumari. Kesh bandhan ki vidhi anusaar mein ise aapke kesho mein lagakar unhe bandhungi.

( This is a pure sacred oil princess. According to the rituals of tying the hair, I will apply it to your tresses & tie them.)

Swayamwar mein jin kshatriya raja athva rajkumar ko aap apna pati chunengi, ve aapke baalo mein vivaah ke samay chudamani pehnayenge.
The wife of the royal priest explained gently, smiling to see the pink hue creep up the neck of the young bride to be, obviously at the thought of her groom.

D: Dhanyawad Gurumata!
Meri keval itni aasha hai ki meri shigra hi uss purush se bhett ho jo mera hriday bal ya sampatti dikhakar nahi, apne niswarth prem bhavna aur apaar karuna se jeete.....

( Thank you, Gurumata! All I wish for is to meet the man who will win my heart, not with his strength or wealth but rather with his selfless feelings of love & compassion....)

Draupadi's cheeks darkened some more as she thought about the existence of such a suitor. She wondered if there was such a man so righteous, so full of love?

Kr: Arrey tum bhi kya smaran karogi sakhi! Tathaastu!
Draupadi rolled her eyes before letting out a soft giggle as Shri Krishna entered the room, greeting Gurumata & Shikhandini.

D: Govind!
She exclaimed happily, rushing to embrace him. Ever since her birth whenever she had needed him, he had been there for her, just as a big brother.
Krishna chuckled at her excitement as she nearly slammed into him, caressing her head with brotherly affection.

Kr: Kaisi ho meri priya Krishnaa? Mera smaran kiya ki nahi?

( How are you my dear friend? Did you miss me?)

He winked playfully at her, cupping her puffy cheeks.
D: Pratidin! Aur aapne aane mein itna vilambh kardiya! Kal hi Swayamwar hai, Govind! Kaha the aap? Jaiyye! Koi avashyakta nahi hai mujhse baat karne ki!

( Everyday! And you came so late! Tomorrow is my Self choice ceremony Govind, where were you? Go! There's no need to talk to me!)

Draupadi huffed, before turning away making Krishna sigh.

Kr: Ohho! Arrey, krodh na karo Krishnae! Dwarka mein kuch samasya hogayi thi. Vistaar mein bataunga baadmein, ab shigra sajj hojao. Tum gauri pujan aur mahabhoj hetu mandir jaa rahi ho na?

( Ohho! Oh don't be angry Krishnae! There was a problem in Dwarka. I will explain it to you in detail at a later time, now go get ready. You are going to the temple for Gauri Pooja & the mahabhoj right?)

Krishna asked with a gentle smile, making Draupadi nod & ultimately smile, dropping her anger.

D: Yatharth kehrahe hai aap Govind, aap yatra se thak gaye honge, tanik vishram karlijiye. Hum raatri bhoj par milenge. Mujhe aagya dijiye, mujhe prasthan se poorv pitashree se anumati leni hai.

( You are right Govind, you must be fatigued from the journey, you should go & rest a bit. We will meet at dinner. Allow me to leave, I have to take permission from father before leaving.)

D: Kintu.....
( But..)

Draupadi's feet haulted, a question budding within her since a few days struggling to come out.
Krishna smiled, knowing his sakhi's heart well.
D: Ek prashn mujhe khaye Jaa Raha hai Govind.... ki main kal kisprakar nishchit kar paungi ki mera jeevan saathi kon hai? Kaise gyaat hoga mujhe ki unmein se kon vo purush honge jo mera ardhang honge?)

( There is a question that is eating away at me, Govind. Tomorrow, how am I suddenly choose my life partner? How will I know that which one of them is the man who will be my other half? )

Krishna smiled, knowing the dilemma Draupadi was in. The eternal lord obviously already knew the future, & decided to guide his dear sakhi.

Kr: Jab tum unhe dekhogi, priya Krishnaa tab tumhe swayam gyaat hojayega ki yahi tumhaara ardhang hai. Tumhe gyaat hojayenge, ki yahi vo purush hai jinki prateeksha tum na jaane kitne kalpo se kar rahi ho.
Avashya hi vo sabse ananya vyakti honge, aur vishesh bhi.

( When you see him, dear Krishnaa, you will realise on your own that he is your other half l. You will know that this is the man you have waited for an eternity. Surely he will be the most unique person, & special too. )

Krishna answerered, & walked out of the chamber, leaving behind a still mildly confused Draupadi.

Draupadi sighed, & left the chamber herself. She had nearly reached her father's chambers, knowing that the court session was having a recess when he found him in the corridor itself, speaking to a few gaurds & servants who carried large covered frames.

D: Pitashree!
( Father!)
Draupadi called out excitedly, wrapping her arms around her father from behind making the normally severe monarch soften & chuckle.

Dr: Parihaar.....!
( Privacy....!)
Draupadi felt her father's chest rumble as he commanded the servants in his usual authoratarian deep baritone. Panchaali snuggled closer to him, hugging him tightly.

D: Pitashree, ye Swayamwar aayojit karna avashyak hai kya? Mujhe nahi jaana aapse aur baaki sabhi se door....

( Father, is it necessary to organise this self choice ceremony? I don't want to be parted from you all....)

The princess pouted her rosebud like lips, looking far too adorable than a baby. Her pout increased when Drupad chuckled again.

Dr: Putriyon ko toh jaana hi hota ek din, kintu tum chinta mat karo putri. Tumhaara vivaah avashya iss vishwa ke sabse yogya, gunwaan aur uttam charitra wale purush se hoga. Vo tumhe itna prem dega ki tum apne iss vriddh pita ko bhool jaogi.....

( Daughters have to go one day but you don't worry, my child. You will surely be married to the most capable, talented & a good charectored man. He will give you so much love that you will forget your old father....)

Drupad attempted to joke but knew he hadn't succeeded when his daughter wrinkled her nose at the notion.
Drupad merely kissed her forehead, & embraced his child to his heart, knowing that she would soon leave this abode to settle in her own. He cursed himself till date for insulting, belittling & refusing to accept the precious boon the gods had bestowed upon him. By the time he realised his folly, he had limited time to spend with his crazy, beautiful, adorable, lovely & golden hearted daughter.

Dh: Uchit hi toh kehrahi hai ye pitashree. Draupadi vivaah ke liye abhi bohot choti hai, kuch varsh ruk jaaye?

( She's right, father. Draupadi is too young to get married. Could we wait for a few years?)

Dhristadyumn suggested hopefully, narrowing his eyes when Drupad & the newly entered Shikhandini look at him as he were from another planet.

With a happy giggle, Draupadi rushed into the strong arms of her twin, who twirled her around, holding her as if there was nothing more precious than her in the world, which was certainly true for them.
D: Bhratashree! Kaisa tha yuddh? Adhik ghaav toh nahi lage na aapko?

( Brother! How was the battle? You aren't too injured, are you?)

Draupadi asked, resting her head against his dark metallic armour, once she had assured herself that her beloved brother was unharmed.

Dh: Uttam raha, priya behen. Hum vijayi hue!
( It was great, dear sister. We won!)

He exclaimed happily & Drupad & Shikhandini rejoiced too, joining in the hug.
Dr: Mujhe tum par garv hai putra, Adbhut!

( I'm proud of you son, excellent!)

Drupad praised happily making Dhristadyumn beam happily.

Just then, Draupadi noticed the five carved frames bearing portraits, covered with a red cloth placed in one corner of the large chambers of the king.

D: Ye chitra kinke hai, pitashree?
( Whose portraits are these, father?)

Draupadi furrowed her brows & inquired, suddenly deeply interested in them. Drupad sighed wistfully, before answering his daughter.

Dr: Ye Pandavo ke chitra hai putri, unn panch mahaan yoddhaon ke jinhone humaari gyrah akshauhini sena ko parasth kar diya.
Adbhut shaurya tha unka! Unse parajit hokar bhi ek vichitra prasannata hui.

Suna hai ki kuch samay poorv Varunavat ke ek bhavan mein lagi aag mein apni maata sahit bhasm ho gaye. Tabse unke vishay mein aur koi samachar nahi hai.
Main apni orr se prayas kar raha hoon, maine guptcharo ko unn mahaveero ke aise aneko chitra dekar Aaryavart ke kone kone mein bheja hai, iss aasha mein ki kadachit ve jeevit ho. Itne samarthyavaan yuvako ko ek bhavan ki agni kya antt karegi!

( These portraits are of the Pandavas daughter, those five great warriors who defeated our 11 akshauhini army. They had amazing valour! Inspite of being defeated by them, there peculiar sense of happiness.

It has been heard that they perished in a fire in a palace in Varnavat along with their mother. From then, there has been no news about them. I'm giving a try from my side to locate the brave ones, I have sent out several spies to every corner of Aaryavart with several such portraits, in the hope that they are alive.
How will a house fire end such capable youths? )

Drupad explained grimly, making Draupadi nod in understanding as she processed everything.

She felt a dull ache in her heart, thinking about someone losing their lives in the most painful way possible. Though fire could cause no harm to the fireborn herself, she knew that it was especially painful to be burnt. She prayed with her heart for all the six of them to be alright, wherever they were, wether on earth or in another world.

A portrait, with its cover having slipped off slightly to reveal half a face, caught her attention. She knew not why, but felt a sudden attraction to it, reaching a level where she got up & grasped the potrait, pulling off the cloth.

The image of fair skin with a golden hue, chiselled, perfect features greeted as did deep uniquely coloured, deep & expressive looking orbs. However, the radiant smile which calmed her racing heart was the winner.

Dh: Ye hai Panduputra Dharmraj Yudhishthir, Kuruvansh ke jyeshth rajkumar. Itni Kam aayu mein shaurya ke liye toh jaane jaate hi hai, kintu inka saral swabhav aur karunamayi hriday aur nyaay paryanta toh unke shatruo ka bhi mann jeetle!

( This is Dharmraj Yudhishthir, the son of Pandu, the eldest prince of Kuruvansh. He is not only know for his valour in this young age, but his sweet nature, compassionate heart & righteousness can win over the hearts of even his enemies. )

Hearing Dhristadyumn's high praise, Draupadi suddenly had an intense urge to meet the man in the potrait. She couldn't help but wonder how he would be. The thought that such a beautiful soul had perished was agonising & vexing.

Draupadi sincerely hoped that her future husband was half the man as this great man, whom her brother describe with such respect in his eyes. Even though she knew that this was the very man who had lead the princes who had defeated her father in battle & conquered half his kingdom, it was perplexing how her father still held him in such high regard.

*******

Meanwhile,
Bheem & Yudhishthir headed out, walking to reach the place behind the Shiva temple as instructed to obtain the required mud.

B: Bhratashree....?
( Brother?)
Came Vrikodar's surprisingly quiet voice making Yudhishthir's coppery gaze land on him. He smiled indulgently, prodding Bheem to go one.

B: Aapko gyaat tha na ki main kuch samay ekaant mein, khuli hawa mein vyateet karna chahata tha....

( You knew right that I wanted to spend sometime alone, in the fresh air...)

Bheem asked him, his soulful deep brown eyes boring into his brother's expressive orbs. Yudhishthir 's signature calm smile was the only answer he required.

Y: Bada bhai hoon tumhaara, apne anuj ka mann kisprakar nahi janunga, priya Bheem.

( I'm your elder brother, how will I not know my younger brother 's mind?)

Yudhishthir pointed out gently, breaking into husky chuckles when Bheem practically pounced on him, hugging him tightly.

Yudhishthir gently hugged his brother back, stroking his locks with love.
Y: Tumhaari peeda samajhta hoon main, anuj. Kintu tumhaara putra raja hai rakshaso ka, uska dharm unhi ke saath vaas kar, unki vyavastha ko sambhalna hai.
Hidimba bhi toh rajmaata hai, uska uttardayitva hai ki vo Ghatotkach ka uchit marg darshan kare....haina?

Tumhe unn dono par garv hona chahiye. Yaha na sahi, kintu tumhaara hriday mein toh ve sada hi rahenge, anuj.
Aur tum chintit na ho mere priya bhrata, hum shigra hi unse milne punah jayenge, hmm?

( I understand your pain, brother. However, your son is the king of the rakshasas, it is his duty to reside with them, & care for their system.
Hidimba is the queen mother, it is her duty to guide Ghatotkach towards the correct path... right?

You should be proud of them both. So what if not here, they will always be in your heart, brother.
Don't you worry my dear younger brother, we will go visit them soon, alright? )

Yudhishthir's heart ached for his brother, & he wanted nothing but to see his Bheem grinning & mischeif making again.

B: Bhratashree...aap sabkuch itna saral kisprakar bana dete hai? Aapse baat karke Mera Mann sada hi shaant hojaata hai. Aap toh iss vishwa ke sabse achche aur pyaare Jyesht Bhratashree hai!

( Brother....you do you manage to simplify everything thus? After talking to you, my mind calms down. You are the world's best & lovable big brother!)

Bheem exclaimed happily, his eyes twinkling once again as he embraced Yudhishthir tightly once more before leaving him.

Yudhishthir made a rather preteniously smug, mock arrogant face.
Y: Huh! Kuch naya batao, Bheem! Ye toh mujhe kabse gyaat hai!
( Huh! Tell me something new, Bheem! I've known this for long!)

He spoke with his nose high up, putting on fake airs.
The next moment the brothers exchanged blank looks before bursting into loud, boisterous laughter, clutching their sides already as they laughed hard.

B: J..jyeshth....aap....aap aise abhimaani purush ka abhinay mat kiya kijiye....aap tanik bhi achhe nahi lagte....

( E.. eldest....you...you.... acting like an arrogant man....doesn't suit you at all...)

Bheem guffawed & Yudhishthir couldn't help but join them.

Bheem knew that Yudhishthir had done it all only to cheer him up, to make him laugh in that moment. Though his pain was still around, there was now a hope in his heart that he could fullfill the aim of his life with the help of his crazily adorable family, especially with his big brother as their guiding light.

Soon they had busied themselves in the task at hand. They worked relentlessly, with immense focus until a familiar low growling was heard. Yudhishthir smirked to himself, as he kept digging, knowing exactly what the sound was.

B: Jyeshth! Mandir se bhojan ki kitni adhbut sugandh aarahi hai! Ye toh hona hi tha! Mujhe toh atyant bhook lagi hai!
Yaha aate samay maine ek nagar vaadi ko kehte suna ki Shiv mandir mein rajkumari Draupadi ne brahmano ke liye bhoj rakhvaya hai! Chaliye na hum bhi chalte hai!
Bheem gave Yudhishthir his best puppy faced look till date, making the great kuru prince wonder how an intimidating, tall, buff warrior who scared his enemies out of their wits could appear so sweet, innocent & childlike suddenly.

Y: Theek hai Bheem, vaise bhi hum avashyakta anusaar mitti praapt kar chuke hai. Bhojan ke pashchaat hum ise vapis le jaayenge.
Having never had the heart to deny his little brothers, as long as their wishes were agreeable, Dharmraj consented with a smile. He looked fondly at his brother who looked so excited as he grabbed his hand, pulling him along.

As the rounded near the temple, they couldn't help but admire the majestic temple with his huge, golden pillars & the various carvings that gave it a regal look.

Y: Aao anuj, pehle darshan karlein....

( Come on brother, let's go visit the temple first....)

Yudhishthir gestured towards the interior of the temple, leading Bheem up the stairs.

As the two Pandavas made their way upstairs, the eldest of them noticed a palanquin that was being pulled by who appeared to be the royal soldiers of Panchaal come to a stop outside the temple.

The pretty red curtains were slightly pushed aside & Dharmraj forgot to breathe momentarily when he saw the most beautiful pair of dark ebony coloured orbs peep out. Her dusky skin, delicate features & most importantly her brilliant smile rendered him speechless.
There was no doubt, as the woman in a beautiful reddish orange ensemble, adorned with golden jewels was none other than the holy princess Yagyaseni who had been bestowed upon Aaryavart by the gods above.

Realising that he had been staring, Yudhishthir averted his gaze. Initially, it was almost physically difficult for him to look away, for she had far too beautiful, beyond imagination even. He was embarrassed at having staring thus at a woman, a princess that too. It was highly against propriety, as was thinking about her beauty.

However, her beautiful face, that mesmerizing, innocent smile that could light up a thousand diyas was imprinted in his mind, & he couldn't shake it off.

Not pleased with his conduct, Yudhishthir made haste to follow Bheem inside, hoping to not only offer prayers to the lord of kailash but also apologise.

Meanwhile, Draupadi descended down the palanquin, heading inside the temple.
D: Rajkumari ki jai ho! Rajkumari, bhoj ka sampurn prabandhan hogaya hai. Yadi kumari ki ichcha ho toh, ek baar janch lijiye....)

( Hail the princess! Princess, all prepations of the feast have been done. If her highness so desires, please check it once....)

The daasi bowed before the princess in greeting & spoke.
D: Avashya, chalo.....
( Sure, come....)

Draupadi nodded with a smile, following the young daasi.

Yudhishthir fondly looked at Bheem as they sat with the other Brahmins waiting to be served food, with stars in his eyes. He nearly guiddy with with happiness. The delight in his brother's eyes filled his own heart with immense happiness.

B: Vo dekhiye jyeshth, bhojan!
( Look eldest, food! )

Yudhishthir chuckled at Bheem's excitement as he pointed to the approaching princess & her daasis carrying several utensils of food.

Draupadi too, along with the other daasis began to serve the food herself, once the banana leafs had been placed before all those seated. One by one each dish was served.

Soon, Draupadi emerged with a large golden vessel full of kheer.
She began to serve the kheer to the Brahmins, enjoying the feeling of feeding them thus wholeheartedly. She expected nothing but to see their happy, satisfied faces & content, full stomachs.

She finally reached Yudhishthir who was the last of the men seated there. Her heart fluttered like never before when she recieved a quiet word of thanks in a deep, velvety baritone when she served him a spoonful of kheer.

Dharmraj did not dare look up, but knowing his manners, he did thank the princess politely. Draupadi smiled at him in acknowledgement, finding it sweet of him to say so. However, as she served him some more, she noticed that not once did he look up.

Almost reluctantly she moved away, with a weird desire of seeing his look up at her. Shaking his head slightly to remove such thoughts, she went back to keep the vessel. However, even then his voice was still fresh in her mind.

The bhrahims began to eat, as all the dishes had been served. Dharmraj had just finished his prayer & was about to eat a morsel when he noticed a woollen blanket covered figure, sitting all alone just outside the temple under the shade of a tree.

His furrowed his brows seeing the figure who appeared to be pleading before s gaurd, reaching out to touch his feet but that gaurd stumbled back in alarm before furiously brandishing a stick at the wobbling figure.

Wrinkled, deformed hands with peeling skin & whitish patches came out of the blanket, joining before the gaurd who looked positively disgusted.

Yudhishthir was appalled at the way the gaurd was trying to bat the person away as if he were nothing more than any annoying fly.

Y: Bheem....main abhi aata hoon....
( Bheem... I'll be back shortly....)

Yudhishthir told his younger brother before heading towards the entrance of the temple, taking his share of food along. A confused Bheem, nodded as he ate.

Reaching closer, he heard the gaurd admonish who he now realised was a frail old man, rather severely.

G: Main raho dusht! Tumhaara sahas kaise hua yaha aane ka? Aur upar se swayam Rajkumari ka pakaya, ishwar ko chadha pavitra prasaad maangte ho! Nikal jao yaha se!

( Shut up, you evil man! How dare you come here? On top of that you ask for the Prasad, cooked by the princess herself, offered to the gods!! Get out of here!)

The gaurd hit the man with the stick this time, causing him to yelp in pain.

Aghast, Dharmraj rushed to his aid, looking at the gaurd incredulously. The gaurd raised the stock again, but this time Dharmraj caught it firmly before it could hurt the man again. Pulling it out of the gaurd's grip with ease, Yudhishthir flung it to a side.

Y: Mahoday! Ye aap kya kar rahe hai, ye humaare pita ki aayu ke honge! Kisi vriddh, laachar vyakti par shastra uthaana adharm hi nahi nirdayta bhi hai!

( Sir! What are you doing? This man seems to be the same age as our father! To lift s weapon against an old, helpless man is not only unethical but also cruel!)

He exclaimed, shocked at the nerve of the gaurd, hitting the old man mercilessly.

Placing his food away, he reached to help the old man who had fallen but was physically stopped by the agitated gaurd.
G: Nahi! Bhrahman devta! Thehriye, ise sparsh mat kijiyega! Ye kushthrogi hai, aur vo bhi Shudra!

( No, revered bhrahim! Wait, do not touch him! He is a patient of leprosy & a Shudra!)

The gaurd told him, looking for disgust to appear on Dharmraj 's face, but it never did, only a calm smile did.

Y: Ye mahoday, chahe jo ho, inhe humaari sahayta ki avashyakta hai. Kushthrog se peedit hona inki bhool nahi bhagya hai. Inse grhina kyu? Hume toh prem purvak inka dhyaan rakhna chahiye.
Ye bhojan ishwar ko bhog chadha tha, aur ab prasad ban chuka hai. Prasaad par toh har ek ka adhikar hota hai, Sainik mahoday.

( Whoever this gentleman may be, he requires our help. Suffering from leprosy is not his fault but destiny. Why hate him? We should infact lovingly care for him.

This food has been offered to the almighty, & is now a sacred offering. Everyone has a right on it.)

Dharmraj explained calmly, aiming to not let the old, sickly man starve due to the prejudice of someone.

The gaurd still looked reluctant & Yudhishthir sighed.
Y: Inhe bhojan karwana ab mera uttardayitva hai. Aap kripya jaiyye, apna karya kijiye....

( It is now my duty to feed him. You kindly head back to your job...)

Yudhishthir told the gaurd politely. The gaurd hesitated to leave Yudhishthir alone there with the old man, but left eventually.

Y: Pranipaat!
( Greetings!)

Yudhishthir greeted the man politely, lowering himself on his knees infront of the crouched man.

Ma: P... Pranipaat...
( G... greetings!)
The man greeted back a little warily.
Y: Lijiye mahoday, bhojan grahan kar lijiye....
( Here sir, have some food...)
He placed his own food before the man who grew perplexed.

M: Nahi nahi....ye bhojan aapka hai....main kaise aapke hisse ka niwala le sakta hoon?
( No no....this is your food...how can I take the morsel meant for you?)
He began but Yudhishthir shook his head.
Y: Aap toh mere pita ki aayu ke hai, atah pita tulya hai. Atah mujhe apna putra maankar ise sweekar kar lijiye.
Aapko ise grahan kar shakti prapt hogi.

Mere anujo ko aushadiyon ka athak gyaan hai.
Main shigra hi aapke liye koi aushadi lekar upasthit hounga. Main ye toh nahi jaanta ki usse aapka yah rog theek ho sakta hai nahi, kintu aapki peeda kam karne mein avashya saphal hogi.

( You are as old as my father, & so like my father. Hence, think of me as your son, & accept this. You will get energy on eating this.

My younger brothers are very knowledgeable about medicines. I will surely return back with some medication. I don't know if they can cure this disease, but it will surely be successful in easing your pain.)

Yudhishthir promised earnestly, unable to see the amount of pain & discomfort the man was in. Moreover, it was hurtful to see society abhhor him thus for something which was not his fault. It was completely wrong.

Yudhishthir gently nudged the leaf with food towards him. The man was about to take it but hesitated.

M: Kintu mere pass aapko dene liye kuch nahi hai....

( But I do not have anything to give you....)

The old man looked upset, however Dharmraj smiled soothingly.
Y: Aap mujhe keval apna ashirwad dijiye, mahoday. Aur kisi vastu ki apeksha nahi mujhe.....

( You only bestow your blessings upon me, sir. There isn't anything else I expect. )

The benelovent eldest Pandava told the old man genuinely, impressing him with the goodness of his heart unknowingly.

From the small gap in the blanket the young disguised prince could see those cracked, Dey lips curl into a slight smile, as if they were nearly unaccustomed to the movement.

M: Sada prasanna raho putra! Ishwar tumhaara jeevan sukh se bhar de, tunhaari har manokamna purn ho! Na jaane kabse bhookha hoon, yaha se kai rajao, rajkumaro ne pravaas kiya kintu kisine meri orr mudkar bhi nahi dekha.

Haan, Rajkumari Panchaali pratidin mere liye tatha anya kai peediton ke liye bhojan aur aushadhi ki vyavastha avashya karwati hai. Bohot bada hriday hai aap dono ka. Humaari rajkumari ke janm se Panchaal ki ye bhoomi pavitra hogayi hai.

( Stay joyful always, son! May god fill your life with happines, may every desire of yours be fulfilled!
I don't know since how long I've been starving, several kings & princes have passed this route but none brother to even turned to glance at me.

Yes, Princess Panchaali surely sent food & medicine for me & so many other needy people everyday. You both have a very generous heart. The land of Panchaal has been purified by the birth of our princess. )

Taking his leave, Dharmraj headed back to his awaiting brother, this time his mind even more filled with thoughts of the princess who appeared to be far more beautiful on the inside than outside.

He couldn't help the smile that came over his lips thinking about such a virtuous woman, who took care of her subjects like a mother. Every citizen he had met till then in Panchaal was full of praise, respect & admiration for Yagyaseni.

Bh: Aap kaha the Bhratashree? Bhoj bhi samapt hogaya! Aapne khaa liya na?

( Where you, brother? The feast is over! Have you eaten?)

Bheem inquired worriedly once Yudhishthir returned.
Y: Nahi Bheem...uss bhojan ki mujhse adhik kisiko avashyakta thi....

( No Bheem.... someone else needed the food more than I did....)

Yudhishthir answered with a smile, making Bheem sigh. As much as he loved his golden hearted brother, how he bear the fact that he was extremely well fed while his brother was still empty stomach.

His eyes fell on the vessels placed nearby & found them to be empty, unfortunately.
Y: Koi baat nahi Bheem....ab chalo! Hume vilambh hojayega lautne mein....

( It's alright Bheem...now come along! We will get late reach back....)

Yudhishthir placed a comforting hand on his younger brother 's bulky shoulder, knowing exactly what he was thinking.

B: Jyeshth....
( Eldest...)

Bheem appeared at a loss of words, appearing almost guilty at having eaten now but Yudhishthir waved it off, more than content to see his little brother had been able to partake the blessed food. Holding his hand, Yudhishthir lead Bheem along.

Unknown to them, Draupadi had been a silent witness to the entire incident, her heart bursting with joy. She had stationed herself not far, when the gaurd informed her about a Brahmin youth feeding a needy man outside.

The minute she had caught sight of him, she had been smitten. The copper of his wisdom & love filled eyes was enchanting. His deep baritone once again set her heart fluttering like before, & Draupadi realised that this was the same brahmin who'd thanked her.

Respect & admiration flooded her heart, as she saw the Brahmin youth who must have surely been famished, insisted the old man to accept his share of food without a thought.

His humility, his respectful words, his calmness & every single thing about him seemed to arouse feelings like never before in Draupadi.

A sudden thought struck her, & she quickly rushed out of her hiding spot, carefully heading back inside without being seen.

D: Rajkumari...ab aap bhi bhojan karlijiye....

( Princess....kindly have your meal....)

A daasi requested, & was about to serve food for Draupadi when she stopped her. Quickly Draupadi served generous amounts of each delicacy onto a fresh banana leaf, from the food kept aside for the royal family.

Placing it on a earthen dish, she covered it securely before handing it to the daasi.

Da: Suno!...kya tum ye bhojan....vaha unn brahman ko de dogi?
Unse kehna ki meri vinati hai, ki vo ise sweekar kar, grahan karein....

( Listen! Will you please deliver this food....to the Brahmin over there?
Tell them that I request them to accept & partake this food...)

Draupadi requested. The daasi smiled at the kind hearted princess & left to do as requested.

Bheem & Yudhishthir were heading towards the exit of the temple, when a woman 's voice stopped them.
Da: Thehriye, bhrahman Maharaj!

( Wait, Brahmin king!)

They looked quizically at each other but stopped, waiting for the woman to approach them.

Y: Ji devi....kahiye?
( Yes devi...what is it?)

The eldest Pandava inquired politely.
The daasi reached them, extending the covered food towards Yudhishthir.
Da: Pranipaat...! Ye bhojan Rajkumari ne aapke liye bhijwaya hai. Unka nivedan hai ki aap kripa kar ise sweekar karlein.
The two Pandavas exchanged surprised looks.

B: Ye bhojan kis liye, devi?
( Why this food, devi?)

Bheem wondered & the daasi smiled.

Da: Rajkumari aapka Mann se dhanyawad karna chahti hai, bhraman kumar. Unn vriddh ki sahayta ke liye. Unhe gyaat hai ki aapne bhojan nahi kiya....

( The princess wants to thank you from the bottom of her heart, O' son of a Brahmin, for helping the old man. She knows that you haven't eaten....)

The daasi informed.

Y: Nahi devi...iski koi avashyakta nahi hai. Vo toh mera dharm tha....
Unhe mere liye kasht lene ki avashyakta nahi....

( No devi....this is not necessary. It was my duty to do so. She need to be inconvienced because of me...)

Yudhishthir hesitated, suddenly feeling so very conscious.

Da: Kasht toh kumaari ko hoga yadi aap bina bhojan kiye yaha se prasthan karenge....

( The princess will be inconvience if you leave from here without having food.)

The daasi urged.

Yudhishthir suddenly felt warm all over as his heart raced. It was really sweet of the princess to consider about him in such a manner. No wonder she ruled the hearts of every citizen of the kingdom.

Y: Dhanywaad devi.... Kripya rajkumari ko....mera dhanyawad kahiyega....

( Thank you devi.... kindly convey my thanks to the princess...)

Bheem was pleasently surprised at the lovely smile that spread across his elder brother's face after an eternity. He mentally thanked the princess too for causing his brother such happiness.

From inside the temple, Draupadi looked on with a blush on her face.
D: Aapne uchit kaha tha Govind.... ki jab main apne varr ko dekhungi.... mujhe swayan gyaat hojayega.......

( You were right, Govind....that when I see my groom...I will understand everything....)

********

Heyyy!!!
Soo.....how was the first chapter? What do think happens next? Any guesses?

Soooo....Drau is impressed!😍

Which was your favourite part??

Please shower this story too with loads of your precious reviews & spam with comments....please!

* Makes the cutest face ever*
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Best wishes,
Dharmasakhi 💓💖