65. After Bhim-Duryodhan duel, enters Arjun

Now that most princes had finished showing their skill and finesse, Arjun was left to be the final attraction. However, the prospect of seeing a gada yuddh or  mace duel, even if a friendly, continued to animate the huge body of spectators. Dronacharya relented to the relentless roars of public urging, The two mighty orinces – Duryadhon, the eldest Kaurava prince and Bhim – the middle Pandava entered the arena with two huge Gadas. Both princes very well built and handsome, and both seemed to be powerhouse of power and strength. They whirled their weapon in the air and began moving in circles looking for an opportunity to hit the opponent first. For quite some time neither could find a chink in his opponent. That spoke of the exalted standard of their learning. Eventually, the two maces came at each other simultaneously, clashed and released series of sparks into the surrounding air. Deafening sound was raised. That began a course of a very interesting duel. The gadas kept clashing at each other and sparks flew thick and fast. The spectators speculated that if one of those strokes had landed on it, even an adult elephant’s head would be crushed instantly.  As the two princes kept charging at each other, the people were rendered spell bound. The tension was even more palpable at the royal gallery.  As people kept speculating as to who was the more versatile warrior of the two, considerable was passed. There was no definite outcome. But it was likely to remain that way as it was a mere show and friendly at that. After an hour or so Dronacharya asked the two princes to retire. Thereafter he  made the announcement for which the whole stadium was eagerly waiting. Drona called Arjun to the arena. There was commotion all around. Amongst all one young man seated at the visitors’ gallery was seen especially interested to watch the event that Drona has just announced. This Young man is no other than Karna