In the grand courtroom of Hastinapur, the air was thick with anticipation. King Dhritarashtra, seated on his ornate throne, listened intently as the esteemed warrior and teacher, Guru Dronacharya, stood before him. The court was silent, with every eye fixed on the legendary Brahmin who had come with a proposal that could shape the future of the Kuru dynasty.
Guru Dronacharya, dressed in simple yet elegant attire befitting his status, began to speak, his voice steady and commanding respect. "Maharaj Dhritarashtra, I have come here with the intention of teaching the art of warfare and imparting wisdom to the young princes of Hastinapur. However, there are conditions that must be met if I am to serve as their guru."
The courtiers leaned in, eager to hear what this revered teacher would demand. Even Bhishma, the grand patriarch of the Kuru family, listened with careful attention.
"Firstly," Dronacharya continued, "I require that all the princes—Pandavas and Kauravas alike—receive equal training. There shall be no favoritism, and each prince will be treated with the same level of discipline and care, regardless of their status or birth."
Dhritarashtra nodded, his expression unreadable. He understood the need for fairness, especially given the already simmering tensions between the Pandavas and Kauravas.
"Secondly," Dronacharya added, his tone firm, "the princes must adhere to a strict code of conduct. They will be taught the principles of dharma, honor, and humility, along with the martial skills they seek to acquire. Disobedience or disrespect will not be tolerated, and any prince who violates this code will face the consequences, no matter who he is."
The king exchanged a glance with Bhishma, who nodded approvingly. The court murmured in agreement; discipline and moral integrity were essential qualities for any future ruler.
"Lastly," Dronacharya said, his eyes narrowing slightly, "I request that at the end of their training, I shall be granted a boon. This boon will be of my choosing, and when the time comes, you, Maharaj, must fulfill it without hesitation."
A hushed silence fell over the courtroom. The demand for a boon was unusual but not unheard of. Still, its nature remained a mystery, and it was clear that Dronacharya's request was non-negotiable.
Dhritarashtra, though blind, sensed the tension in the room. He turned his head slightly toward Bhishma, seeking his counsel. Bhishma, ever wise and measured, spoke up, "Guru Dronacharya's conditions are just and honorable. His wisdom and expertise are unmatched. I believe we should accept his terms, for the future of the Kuru dynasty rests in the proper guidance of our young princes."
After a moment of contemplation, Dhritarashtra finally spoke. "Guru Dronacharya, we accept your conditions. You shall be the guru of the Kuru princes. May your teachings guide them to greatness and ensure the prosperity of our kingdom."
With that, the agreement was sealed. Guru Dronacharya bowed respectfully and took his leave, knowing that the future of Hastinapur was now inextricably linked to his teachings and the choices these young princes would make under his guidance.