Duryodhana's Visit to the Forest
“A visit to gloat. A trap of pride. Saved by those he exiled.”
Story Summary
Duryodhana, consumed by hatred and pride, visits the forest to witness the Pandavas' suffering and gloat over their exile. However, his arrogance leads him and his party into conflict with celestial Gandharvas who rule over that part of the forest. When Duryodhana is captured and humiliated by the Gandharvas, word reaches the Pandavas. Despite the irony, Yudhishthira follows dharma and orders his brothers to rescue their enemy. The Pandavas defeat the Gandharvas and free Duryodhana, who responds with bitterness and ungratefulness rather than gratitude. This story highlights Yudhishthira's unwavering commitment to dharma and demonstrates the stark contrast between the Pandavas' compassion and Duryodhana's pride.