20. REUNION BETWEEN PANDAVA BROTHERS

Since Bhim went missing, his brothers went about their daily chores but as if they were lifeless. For past some time the boys were taking their arms training from the revered Kripacharya. The vanishing of Bhim had snatched their interest to live, let alone learn. However, Duryodhan seemed to be very ebullient and happy which confirmed their suspicion that he had a role in Bhim’s disappearance.

 

On the eighth morning as the crest-fallen brothers were preparing to go for yet another day’s routine arms lessons, there was  huge banging on the door. Yudhisthir opened it, and the sweetest surprise was waiting to unravel. On the other side of the door stood Bhim dressed in elegant white. He appeared full of strength and vigour. There was a tearful reunion and Bhim narrated the full story starting from how he was poisoned by Duryodhan. The family decided that from now on the brothers should remain very alert and protect each other. They knew their fear was not imaginary and that dangers could arise any time from known or unknown sources. At the same time, Yudhisthir advised that it would be unwise to let their cousins know that they have found out the intentions and role of Duryodhan. Five brothers decided they would pretend as if they knew nothing.

 

Duryodhan and Dushashan were surprised to see Bhim back. Not only that, they were intrigued to find out he has grown much stronger on return. They could not solve the riddle. Visibly unhappy and dismayed they kept looking for next chances to harm their cousins.

14. Bhim tied and drowned in the river

At the palace, Kunti had good reason to worry. The day was wearing out. Both Pandava and Kaurava children had returned home. But, Bhim was not to be seen anywhere. She started growing restive.

 Sensing his Mother’s tension, and assessing the situation, Yudhishthir with his brothers left for the riverbank to see if Bhim was still sleeping.

There at that spot, Duryadhan and Dushashan were busy executing the last leg of their plan. Duryadhan was tense. With keen eyes scanning all around, he spoke in hushed tones:

“Let us finish off quick. It will not be long before those four turn up searching here”.

Dushashan was busy tying up Bhim’s sleeping body. It was huge, and the light was dim. It was getting difficult and irritating for him. Somehow he coped with the enormous task and hapily announced:

“Almost done! Wont be long before we get rid of this monster, for ever”.

 In a moment, Duryadhan and Dushashan together dragged Bhim’s tied body to the shore of Ganges and dropped it in the water. With that, Duryadhan heaved a big sigh of relief. The duo then silently disappeared from the scene.