The exile of the Pandavas is one of the most significant and challenging episodes in the Mahabharata. It marks a turning point in the epic and is crucial in shaping the events that eventually lead to the great Kurukshetra War. This article offers a comprehensive account of the Pandavas’ exile, covering the circumstances that led to it, their experiences during the exile, and the significant events that occurred during this time.
The Dice Game and the Beginning of Exile
The Pandavas’ exile begins with a game of dice, which was manipulated by their cousins, the Kauravas, who harbored deep resentment toward them. The game was proposed by Shakuni, the Kauravas’ uncle, who had a personal vendetta against the Pandavas. It was rigged to ensure the defeat of the Pandavas.
The Game of Dice
- Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, was invited to participate in a dice game with Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas. Despite his hesitation, Yudhishthira was compelled to play, as it was a matter of royal duty.
- The game started innocently but soon became disastrous for Yudhishthira. He began losing his kingdom, wealth, and even his brothers. In a desperate move, he staked himself and lost, followed by his brothers, who were also staked and lost.
- Ultimately, Yudhishthira staked his wife, Draupadi, and lost her as well. This act of dishonor, where Draupadi was humiliated in the Kaurava court, further escalated the situation.
- To settle the dispute and uphold the terms of the game, Dhritarashtra, the blind king of Hastinapur, agreed to the condition that the Pandavas would go into exile for 13 years, with the 13th year to be spent in incognito (hidden).
The Terms of Exile
The terms of the exile were clear:
- 12 years in the forest: The Pandavas were to live in exile in the forest for 12 years, enduring hardships, away from their kingdom, and without the luxury they were accustomed to.
- 1 year in incognito: In the 13th year, they had to live in complete anonymity. If anyone discovered their true identity, they would have to repeat the 12 years of exile.
If the Pandavas were found during the 13th year, they would be forced to undergo another cycle of exile, which would extend their banishment indefinitely.
The Pandavas’ Life in the Forest
The First Twelve Years
The Pandavas, along with Draupadi, began their exile by leaving the kingdom of Hastinapur and entering the forest. The first 12 years of their exile were filled with hardships and challenges, but the Pandavas faced them with courage and perseverance.
- They spent their time in various forests, including Kamyaka, Dandaka, and Naimisha, often facing attacks from the Kauravas and other adversaries.
- During this period, they were visited by sages and rishis, with whom they spent time in meditation and austerity. They also encountered several demons and were involved in protecting the hermitages of the sages from their attacks.
- In the forest, the Pandavas were tested both physically and mentally, and they exhibited remarkable resilience. Their time in the forest was not just a period of punishment, but also one of personal growth and spiritual enlightenment.
Key Events During the Forest Exile
- Abduction of Draupadi: One of the most significant events of the Pandavas’ forest exile was the abduction of Draupadi by Jayadratha, the ruler of Sindhu. He attempted to take Draupadi away, but Bhima saved her, and the Pandavas humiliated Jayadratha.
- The Killing of Keechaka: During their exile, Draupadi’s beauty caught the attention of Keechaka, the commander of Virata’s army. He attempted to insult her, but Bhima, in disguise, killed Keechaka, thereby protecting Draupadi’s honor.
- The Visit of Lord Krishna: Lord Krishna visited the Pandavas in the forest on several occasions, offering them counsel and support. He assured them of victory in the future and guided them in dealing with the Kauravas.
- The Encounter with the Sage Durvasa: One of the most significant incidents was when Sage Durvasa came to visit the Pandavas and Draupadi. Durvasa, known for his temper, was invited by Draupadi, and they were provided with a limited supply of food. To everyone’s surprise, the food was able to satisfy Durvasa and his entire retinue, due to Draupadi’s faith in Krishna and the divine powers she possessed.
The Thirteenth Year: Life in Disguise
At the end of the 12 years, the Pandavas entered their final year of exile, which was to be spent in incognito. They had to disguise themselves in a way that no one would recognize them.
Disguises of the Pandavas
- Yudhishthira assumed the role of a court adviser named Kanka in the court of King Virata of Matsya.
- Bhima became a cook named Vallabha in the same court.
- Arjuna, the greatest archer, disguised himself as a eunuch named Brihannala and became a dance and music teacher to the princess of Matsya, Uttara.
- Nakula and Sahadeva served as the royal cowherds, named Granthika and Tantripala, respectively.
While living in the court of King Virata, the Pandavas maintained their true identities hidden, yet they performed their duties faithfully and honored their agreements.
The Exposure of the Pandavas’ Identities
The Pandavas’ incognito life came to an end when Duryodhana, the eldest Kaurava, sent an army to attack the kingdom of Matsya. The Kauravas did not know that Arjuna, disguised as Brihannala, was living there. When the Kaurava forces attacked, Arjuna revealed his true identity and fought valiantly in the battle, defeating Duryodhana’s army.
This act exposed the Pandavas’ true identity, and they were no longer in hiding. With the exposure of their identity, the Pandavas were welcomed back by King Virata and the people of the kingdom.
The Aftermath: Return to Hastinapur
After the 13th year of exile came to an end, the Pandavas made their way back to Hastinapur to reclaim their kingdom. However, their return was met with hostility from the Kauravas, especially Duryodhana, who refused to return the kingdom to the Pandavas. This led to the famous negotiation where Lord Krishna attempted to broker peace between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, but his efforts were unsuccessful.
This conflict ultimately culminated in the Kurukshetra War, where the Pandavas fought the Kauravas for their rightful share of the kingdom.
Conclusion
The Pandavas’ exile was a defining period in their lives. The trials and tribulations they faced in the forest helped strengthen their resolve and prepared them for the great challenges ahead, particularly the Kurukshetra War. Their time in exile also shaped their character, turning them into noble warriors, wise rulers, and protectors of dharma (righteousness). The experiences during their exile laid the groundwork for the events that would eventually lead to their triumph and the restoration of justice in the epic Mahabharata.