The Conspiracy to Kill Bhima (Mahabharata Series 26)

The Conspiracy to Kill Bhima

Meanwhile, the Pandava princes underwent the sacred Vedic rites such as Upanayana and other prescribed ceremonies. Residing in their father Pandu’s palace, they enjoyed princely comforts and grew stronger and more accomplished with each passing day.

The hundred sons of Dhritarashtra and the five sons of Pandu played together, engaging in various games and sports. In every contest, the Pandavas invariably excelled. Whether it was running, archery practice, or feats of strength, the Pandavas remained unmatched. Among them, Bhima stood foremost in all forms of physical play.

Even when Duryodhana and several other boys tried to restrain him, Bhima never yielded. When the jealous boys instigated quarrels, Bhima would seize them by their hair and drag them along the ground. During swimming games, Bhima would hold many of the Kauravas underwater and release them only when they were on the brink of suffocation. Enraged by these acts, the proud Duryodhana repeatedly challenged Bhima to contests. Even when he attacked Bhima along with several brothers, Bhima would bind them all within the grip of his mighty arms and hurl them to the ground. Witnessing this, many Kaurava boys would flee the moment Bhima appeared.

When the boys climbed trees to pluck fruits, Bhima would arrive, grasp the trunk of the tree, and shake it violently. The frightened boys would fall down along with the fruits, tumbling helplessly to the ground. Terrified of Bhima, they would run away without even noticing their injuries, while Bhima laughed heartily at the sight.

In wrestling, no one could even come close to surpassing Bhima. Every time Duryodhana and others challenged him, they were reminded of Bhima’s unquestionable superiority in physical combat.

Undoubtedly, among the hundred and five princes, Bhima alone stood as the embodiment of unmatched strength. All others were insignificant before him. Yet, Bhima bore no arrogance, envy, or hatred toward anyone. He merely possessed the natural exuberance of youth and a playful desire to display his strength. However, these daring exploits ignited deep jealousy in the hearts of others.

Among all the boys, Duryodhana’s envy toward Bhima grew the strongest. Already unrighteous, selfish, envious, and consumed by false pride, Duryodhana burned with resentment at Bhima’s feats. No matter what he attempted, he could never equal Bhima. Praising Bhima’s prowess was impossible for him, as his arrogance stood in the way.

Moreover, Duryodhana harbored an intense ambition to become the sole heir to the throne of Hastinapura. In his mind, Bhima alone stood as the greatest obstacle to his royal aspirations. He reasoned that if Bhima could somehow be eliminated, he could imprison Yudhishthira and Arjuna and rule the kingdom unchallenged. Thus, Duryodhana resolved to kill Bhima through deceit.

As part of this sinister plan, Duryodhana arranged the construction of temporary pleasure pavilions on the banks of the river Ganga, near Prayāga Tīrtha. He named the place Udaka Krīdana—the Water Playground. There, he made elaborate arrangements for water sports and ensured an abundance of rich food and delicacies.

Once all preparations were complete, Duryodhana approached Yudhishthira and invited him, along with his brothers, to join the Kauravas for water sports at the newly arranged location.

Yudhishthira agreed, and accompanied by his younger brothers, set out with the Kauravas to Udaka Krīdana. Upon arrival, they entered the beautifully decorated temporary residences.

The pavilions were adorned with elegant paintings, artificial water fountains, man-made lakes, and flowing channels, captivating the young princes. After briefly admiring these marvels, they proceeded to the dining hall for refreshments. There, they joyfully shared the prepared delicacies, feeding one another in a spirit of youthful camaraderie.

Unbeknownst to them, Suyodhana (Duryodhana) had already arranged poison-laced laddus as part of his deadly plot. He knew well that Bhima, fond of food, would never refuse such sweets.

Feigning an affection he had never shown before, Duryodhana spoke sweetly to Bhima and engaged him in friendly conversation. He embraced Bhima warmly and patted his shoulders. Bhima, simple-hearted and unaware of deceit, gladly accepted Duryodhana’s apparent friendship. Laughing together, the two placed their arms over each other’s shoulders and began eating and feeding one another—just as Duryodhana’s sinister plan moved closer to its execution.