In another part of the vast palace, the wise and ever-observant Vidura was deep in conversation with the elderly and revered Mahamahin, a senior advisor and custodian of the palace's traditions. The two were discussing a matter of great importance—the upbringing of the 105 princes of Hastinapura. The palace had never before housed so many young royals, and the challenges of imparting values of love, care, and unity to these future leaders were many.
"Mahamahin," Vidura began thoughtfully, "these children, though of noble birth, are still young and impressionable. They are the future of our kingdom, but they are also brothers. It is our duty to ensure that they grow up understanding the true meaning of family—of love, of care, and of mutual respect. The rivalry that is natural among them must be tempered with lessons of cooperation and unity. They must learn that their strength lies not in competing against one another, but in standing together as one."
Mahamahin nodded, his wise eyes reflecting the weight of the responsibility they both shared. "You are right, Vidura. They must be taught to see each other not as rivals, but as extensions of themselves. Their bond must be forged in such a way that it withstands the trials of time and the temptations of power. We must find ways to teach them these values in their daily lives, so they become second nature."
As they spoke, Shubham, still adjusting to his new reality as Arjun, found himself wandering through the palace with his brothers. They came upon a group of maids bustling about, preparing what seemed to be an extravagant feast. The tantalizing aromas filled the air, making even the most disciplined stomachs rumble in anticipation.
Bheema, with his characteristic enthusiasm for food, couldn't resist the urge to inquire. Slurping the water in his mouth, he turned to Yudhishthira, "Brother, who is this big feast for? The smells are making me hungrier by the moment!"
Yudhishthira smiled at his younger brother's eager curiosity. "This feast, Bheema, is for everyone in the palace. It happens every day, as part of our tradition to feed all those who reside here—princes, soldiers, servants, and guests alike."
Bheema's eyes lit up at the thought of a daily feast. "Ah! Then I can eat my fill every day! This is wonderful news!"
Shubham, now fully embracing his role as Arjun, laughed at Bheema's unbridled excitement. "Brother, you always eat your fill, whether there's a feast or not!"
As the brothers continued their playful banter, the Kaurava princes joined them, and together they made their way to the grand dining hall. The tables were laden with a variety of dishes, each more tempting than the last. It was a sight to behold—a true royal spread.
Just as the princes were about to dig in, Mahamahin Bhishma entered the hall, his presence commanding immediate respect and attention. With a kind but firm tone, he instructed, "Sit in the order of your age, my children, and remember, today you will eat without folding your elbows."
The princes exchanged curious glances but complied, taking their seats in the order of their birth. When the food was served, they quickly realized the challenge of the task set before them. Eating without bending their elbows proved to be nearly impossible, as none of them could manage to get the food to their mouths. Laughter and frustration filled the room as they struggled, each trying in vain to find a way around the restriction.
Seeing the futility of their efforts, Yudhishthira, ever the wise and thoughtful one, spoke up. "Brothers, rather than trying to feed ourselves, why don't we feed each other? If we help one another, we can all eat and enjoy this feast together."
The Pandavas immediately took to the idea, and with smiles on their faces, they began to feed one another. The atmosphere lightened as the brothers shared their food, their laughter and camaraderie filling the hall.
But as the Pandavas and Kauravas began to interact, it became clear that the bond between the two groups was far from equal. While the Pandavas eagerly fed their cousins, the Kauravas hesitated. There was a noticeable reluctance, especially from Duryodhana, who glanced at his brothers, silently signaling them to withhold their help.
Shubham, as Arjun, noticed this hesitation and felt a pang of sadness. It was a clear sign of the division already taking root between them. Though they were all part of the same family, the seeds of rivalry and distrust were beginning to sprout, nurtured by the subtle yet powerful influence of Shakuni.
Despite the tension, the Pandavas remained true to Yudhishthira's words, continuing to help one another without expecting anything in return. Shubham knew that this was only the beginning of the challenges they would face as a family, but he also understood that the values of cooperation and unity would be crucial in the trials to come. As they finished the meal, he silently vowed to himself that, as Arjun, he would do everything in his power to preserve the bond with his brothers, even in the face of growing enmity.