Mahābhārata The History of the Great India

<< 82 Drupada Prepares a Test >>

As Yudhisthira was thus speaking, another messenger came running from the Pancala king and announced that a feast was ready.

The messenger said, "On the occasion of his daughter's marriage, and in honor of the bridegroom's party, King Drupada has arranged a splendid meal. All of you are urged to complete your religious duties and without delay come with Draupadi for the feast. These chariots yoked with fine horses and adorned with gold lotuses are worthy of kings. All of you should mount them and proceed to the home of the Pancala king."

Placing the royal priest on the first chariot, the rightful leaders of the Kurus mounted those grand chariots and departed. Kunti and Draupadi went with them.

Hearing from his priest what Yudhisthira had said, King Drupada, hoping to learn the identity of the Kuru leaders, brought various gifts appropriate for all the social classes. He collected fruits and other simple foods [preferred by the brahmanas], and beautifully woven armor, shields, garlands, and royal seats. For the farmers there were gifts of cows, ropes, and other such implements. And he brought all the tools and materials used for the crafts and trades, with nothing left out. The king also collected all the necessary equipment for sports and recreation.

[Still, Dhrstadyumna had indicated that they were probably warriors, and so the king especially prepared gifts suitable for warriors.] There were large swords, excellent bows, the best arrows, bright chariots of various styles, brilliant sets of armor for chariot horses, and lances and spears beautifully adorned with gold. There were javelins, explosives, battle-axes—all that is used in battle—and the most exquisitely wrought beds and chairs in plentiful variety.

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