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10+14 min

Karna and Yudhishthira

On day sixteen, Karna breaks the Pandava king’s defense yet chooses mercy over victory.

Story Summary

In the heart of day sixteen, Karna isolates Yudhishthira with a flawless cavalry screen, shattering the king’s bow and driving him from the field. Krishna urges Arjuna to protect his brother, but Karna instead lowers his own bow, honoring a vow never to slay the elder Pandavas. He reminds Yudhishthira to send Arjuna quickly, promising their duel must decide the war. Yudhishthira retreats in shame and gratitude, understanding that the brother he never knew spared him, even as destiny presses them closer to tragedy.

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Karna and Yudhishthira | Mahabharata | Itihasa Tattva | Itihasa Tattva