CHAPTER 58: DIVINE KARNA

Enjoy this big chapter!.....

The entire arena fell into a stunned silence as the arrow released by an unknown challenger sailed through the air and struck the ice that had frozen Duryodhana. Even Arjuna, renowned for his unparalleled archery skills, was taken aback by the unexpected turn of events. He couldn't fathom who possessed such precision and daring.

But it was Bhishma, the stalwart of Hastinapur, who recognized the nature of the arrows. These were the kind created and wielded by Guru Parashuram's disciples, weapons of immense power and skill. His heart sank as he realized the gravity of the situation. This unknown challenger was no ordinary archer; they were a disciple of a formidable guru, and Bhishma knew that they posed a significant threat.

Shakuni, seated among the royal onlookers, couldn't hide his sly grin. The presence of this challenger was a ray of hope for those who wished to see Pandavas defeated. His mind raced with the possibilities this new development presented.

Duryodhana, still encased in ice, was in a state of bewilderment. As the arrow struck the ice around him, he could feel its warmth spreading through the frozen prison. It was an odd sensation, one that added to the mystique of the challenger. His thoughts were a whirlwind of confusion and intrigue.

As the initial shock began to wear off, whispers and murmurs spread like wildfire through the audience. The people of Hastinapur, who had come to witness the grand competition, were now enthralled by this unexpected twist. They exchanged curious glances and speculative comments, eager to unravel the mystery behind the challenger.

But the most enigmatic figure of all, Karna, remained poised on the rooftop, overlooking the arena. His presence had ignited a spark in the kingdom, a spark that promised both excitement and uncertainty. Though he knew the identity of the challenger, he chose to remain in the shadows for now, watching as events unfolded.

Back in the arena, Dronacharya was visibly taken aback. He had issued the challenge earlier, not expecting anyone to step forward, especially someone wielding such potent weaponry. As the master of archery, he was intrigued by the skill of this new contender but also wary of the potential consequences.

With a sense of authority, Dronacharya raised his voice to address the arena, seeking to unveil the identity of the challenger. "Who dares to challenge this competition? Reveal yourself!" His words carried the weight of authority, and all eyes turned to the center stage, awaiting the mysterious archer's response.

The moment had come for the unknown challenger to step into the spotlight, to reveal their identity and intentions. The fate of Hastinapur now hung in the balance, with the promise of a remarkable showdown in the arena.

Karna: I am the one who released the Arrow.

As Karna's divine voice reverberated through the stadium, declaring that he was the one who had released the arrow, a hush fell over the entire Hastinapur arena. All eyes turned towards the source of the voice, and the collective gaze fixed on the rooftop where a radiant figure stood, his features veiled by a cloth.

The brightness emanating from this enigmatic young man was so intense that it obscured his face, making it impossible for anyone in the audience to see him directly. It was as though another sun had descended upon the arena, casting a brilliant glow that bathed everything in its vicinity.

With a grace that defied the laws of mortal men, the young man leaped from the rooftop. His descent was awe-inspiring, and when his feet touched the ground, the entire stage of Kalapradharshan quaked beneath the impact. The spectators, the royal family, and the contestants themselves felt the earth shudder, as if the very foundations of Hastinapur were trembling.

Dronacharya, who had issued the challenge moments earlier, stood in stunned silence. He had expected no one to come forward, let alone someone of such extraordinary presence and power. His eyes were fixed upon the dazzling figure that had materialized before him, the embodiment of an enigma.

The people of Hastinapur, their breath collectively held, couldn't tear their eyes away from the mysterious young man who had just entered the fray. Whispers and gasps filled the air as they tried to comprehend the unparalleled spectacle unfolding before them.

From his vantage point, Karna observed the unfolding drama, his face still veiled by the cloth. His decision to participate in this grand competition had sent shockwaves through the kingdom, and now his presence had shaken Hastinapur to its core. The moment had arrived for him to step into the spotlight, to reveal himself to the world once more.

In that charged atmosphere, Dronacharya, the master of archery, found his voice again. His words carried a mix of astonishment and authority as he addressed the radiant figure that had challenged his students and shaken the very earth of Hastinapur. "Who are you, and what is your purpose here?"

The eyes of the entire kingdom were upon this mysterious young man, waiting with bated breath for his response, eager to uncover the identity and intentions of the one who had dared to challenge the might of Hastinapur.

As Karna stood before Dronacharya, his voice carried the weight of a divine command. His face remained veiled by the cloth, a shroud that concealed his identity. The people of Hastinapur watched in rapt attention, sensing the aura of authority that emanated from this mysterious figure.

Dronacharya, the venerable master of archery, had issued a challenge, and Karna had come only to answer that challenge. He held no desire for unnecessary conflict, and his calm demeanor spoke of a higher purpose.

Addressing Dronacharya, Karna's words were measured and deliberate. "I have come here solely to answer the challenge you issued," he declared, his voice cutting through the tense silence that had gripped the arena.

Dronacharya, though still taken aback by Karna's unexpected arrival, listened intently. He knew that this was no ordinary challenger; there was an air of distinction about this enigmatic figure.

Karna continued, offering sage advice to the renowned teacher. "Respect for all warriors of this world is paramount," he emphasized. "While your favorite disciple, Arjuna, is undoubtedly a skilled archer, it is a mistake to believe he is the best in the world. There are many other formidable archers, and some of them are here today, in this very Kalapradharshan."

Dronacharya was acutely aware of the truth in Karna's words. The world was vast, and within it dwelled warriors of exceptional prowess, each possessing their unique skills and talents.

However, Dronacharya's curiosity got the better of him, and he asked a question that cut to the heart of social hierarchies in that era. "What caste do you belong to?"

Karna's response would reverberate throughout the kingdom of Hastinapur, for it challenged the rigid caste system and exposed the limitations of societal norms. His words, when uttered, carried the weight of defiance and equality, echoing a message that transcended his identity.

The audience watched in anticipation, for Karna's reply had the potential to change the course of history and alter the destiny of kingdoms.

Karna remained calm as he answered Dronacharya's question, revealing his caste without a trace of anger. "I am the son of a charioteer, a Suta Putra," he stated with dignity.

However, this admission sparked a flurry of reactions from various quarters. Some among the spectators, particularly the Pandavas, saw this as an opportunity to mock Karna. Bheema, Nakul, and Sahadev couldn't resist taunting him, their words cutting through the air like arrows.

"Look at this charioteer's son trying to challenge our might," Nakul jeered.

Sahadev chimed in with a sardonic smile. "Perhaps he's here to fetch our arrows when we're done."

Bheema, known for his physical strength and straightforwardness, added, "I'll send him flying with a single blow."

The audience, divided in their loyalties, reacted with a mix of curiosity, amusement, and disbelief. Some found the situation highly entertaining, while others couldn't help but admire Karna's courage.

However, amidst this commotion, Bhishma, the grand patriarch of Hastinapur, observed Karna closely. He saw beyond the veil that concealed Karna's face and into the depths of his eyes. Bhishma possessed a wisdom that transcended ordinary perception. He recognized the extraordinary nature of this young man who had just revealed his caste.

In that moment, Bhishma knew that this was no ordinary challenger. The intensity in Karna's gaze, the composure in his stance—it all pointed to a warrior of exceptional skill and character. His intuition told him that this Suta Putra was none other than Karna, a realization that sent a tremor through his being.

Meanwhile, Karna remained unmoved by the taunts and provocations. He was aware that this was not the time for confrontation. His purpose was to answer the challenge issued by Dronacharya, not to engage in petty bickering.

As the tension in the arena reached its peak, an unexpected force of nature intervened. The elements themselves seemed to respond to the upheaval caused by the exchange of words and emotions.

The skies darkened ominously, and a sudden gust of wind swept across the stage. The once calm and sunny day gave way to an unsettling atmosphere. Elephants trumpeted loudly, horses whinnied in distress, and the very earth beneath seemed to tremble.

The people of Hastinapur watched in awe as the drama unfolded, sensing that they were witnessing an event of profound significance. For in that moment, nature itself had taken sides, and the fate of kingdoms hung in the balance.

Karna's response to the mockery, the recognition in Bhishma's eyes, and the elemental upheaval—all of these were threads in the tapestry of destiny being woven that day on the stage of Kalapradharshan.

As the elements themselves seemed to respond to the unfolding drama, Karna, in his divine composure, took a step forward. He gently raised his hand, and in a voice that resonated with a touch of authority, he ordered the turbulent nature to calm itself.

The war elephants, those mighty beasts of battle, and the powerful horses that had once seemed uncontrollable, all heeded Karna's command. They approached him, kneeling in a show of profound respect, as if recognizing in him a power beyond the ordinary. Karna extended his hand to touch their massive heads, and they accepted this gesture with an almost sacred reverence. This display left the onlookers, especially those who had earlier mocked him, stunned into silence.

Karna, however, was not swayed by this turn of events. He had come for a purpose, and he was resolute in his pursuit of it. With an unwavering gaze, he turned his attention back to Dronacharya.

In the charged atmosphere, Karna addressed Dronacharya directly. "Is this challenge real, or is it mere posturing?" His words were measured, his tone devoid of arrogance or boastfulness. He sought clarity, for he was a warrior of honor, and he would not engage in a meaningless spectacle.

Before Dronacharya could respond, Arjuna, the mighty Pandava prince and the acclaimed archer, stepped forward boldly. He accepted the challenge issued by the enigmatic Suta Putra. Arjuna stood resplendent in his Kavasa, his body armor glistening, and his bow, a magnificent work of art, held confidently in his hand.

On the other hand, Karna remained an image of simplicity. He bore no extravagant armor, and his bow, though unadorned, held an air of indomitable strength. There was no hint of excitement or nervousness in his demeanor, only a calm and steadfast resolve.

The stage was now set for a face-off between two extraordinary archers, each representing a different destiny. The spectators held their breath, their hearts pounding with anticipation. It was a duel that promised to be more than just a competition—it was a clash of legends, a contest that would be etched into the annals of history.

As Arjuna and Karna stood facing each other, the silence was almost palpable. In this pivotal moment, the destiny of Hastinapur, entwined with the fates of these two formidable warriors, hung suspended like an arrow in mid-flight.

In the midst of the vast arena, a monumental clash unfolded between two of the greatest archers the world had ever seen. Karna, Suta Putra, but a Surya putra, avatar of lord shiva and Arjuna, the formidable Pandava prince, engaged in a battle of unparalleled archery.

The duel between Karna and Arjuna transcended mere mortal combat. It was a contest of divine proportions, where the very elements seemed to conspire. Astra after astra, the two warriors unleashed their celestial weaponry upon each other, and the heavens themselves bore witness to this epic confrontation.

Arjuna, with his bow presented by his guru, the fire weapon. Flames roared and danced as they sped towards Karna, but the Suta Putra deflected them effortlessly with the calm demeanor of a sage.

Undeterred, Arjuna turned to the Vayavyastra, the wind weapon. Whirlwinds howled and swirled, aiming to engulf Karna, but again, he thwarted the attack as if swatting away a mere nuisance.

Arjuna, growing more determined, called upon the nagastra, the serpent weapon. Serpentine arrows of immense potency slithered towards Karna, their venomous bite poised to strike. Yet Karna remained unscathed, his reflexes and archery skills beyond compare.

The audience watched in awe and disbelief as Arjuna continued to deploy one formidable astra after another. But with each attempt, Karna's mastery became increasingly evident. It was as if he held dominion over the very laws of nature.

In response, Karna exhibited his own array of celestial weaponry. He invoked the Bhargavastra, a divine weapon bestowed upon him by Lord Parashurama. A blinding shower of arrows emerged from Karna's bow, dazzling in its precision. Arjuna found himself ensnared within this vortex of arrows, forced to expend great effort to repel them.

Karna then summoned the Vaayuastra, the wind weapon, in return. Fierce winds encircled Arjuna, threatening to disorient him. Yet the Pandava prince, with his unwavering resolve, managed to maintain his position and repel the assault.

As the battle raged on, it became clear that Arjuna was grappling with a force beyond his comprehension. Each arrow unleashed by Karna hit its mark with unnerving accuracy. The heavens themselves seemed to be at Karna's command.

Krishna, watching this incredible display of archery, was struck with admiration and awe. He recognized Karna's prowess as an archer unparalleled in the annals of history. The question loomed in his mind: How could Arjuna, skilled as he was, hope to contend with a warrior who had ascended to such heights in the art of archery?

In the grandstands, Dronacharya and Bhishma observed with a mix of anxiety and understanding. Dronacharya, once the guru of Karna's own guru, Parashurama, was aware of the formidable power Karna possessed. Bhishma, with his profound knowledge of warriors and their destinies, had anticipated the outcome even before the battle commenced.

As the duel between Karna and Arjuna raged on, it became clear that this was not merely a competition. It was a testament to the divine and a reflection of the inextricable threads of destiny that wove through the lives of these two extraordinary beings.

In the heart of the battle, karna easily deflected all the arrows of Arjuna and he decided to finish the battle, but as Arjuna's anger swelled, he made a fateful decision—to invoke the Brahmastra, the most potent and destructive celestial weapon known to mankind. This choice sent shockwaves through the spectators, and the urgency in their voices echoed through the arena.

Dronacharya and Bhishma, the venerable elders of the battlefield, reacted swiftly. They rose from their seats, their faces etched with concern, and moved with haste toward Arjuna, attempting to intervene and prevent the catastrophic unleashing of the Brahmastra.

But time was running out, and the momentum of Arjuna's decision could not be halted. Arjuna, his pride and honor at stake, firmly chanted the mantras and invoked the mighty Brahmastra, a weapon capable of immense destruction. The very atmosphere seemed to tremble as the Brahmastra took form, its colossal power looming over the battlefield like a dark cloud.

Karna, on the other side, recognized the grave danger that now threatened Hastinapur and its people. With a speed and precision that defied imagination, he called upon the elemental forces under his command. The five elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether—bowed to his will. Karna used his divine powers to protect the innocent citizens of Hastinapur, the royal mothers, and those in immediate danger.

His gaze then shifted to Krishna, who stood among the spectators. Through the unspoken language of their minds, Karna implored Krishna to shield the common people, to protect them from the impending cataclysm that Arjuna had set in motion.

Krishna, ever the divine strategist, responded with reassuring words that resonated directly in Radha's heart,"Don't worry Mata".He approached her with a calm and compassionate demeanor, gently telling her not to worry, assuring her that her son, Karna, would safeguard everything.

In those moments of crisis and impending doom, the bond between mother and son was felt deeply, transcending the boundaries of the physical world. Radha, though unable to discern her son's identity due to his cloth-covered face, found solace in Krishna's words, trusting that Karna, her beloved child, would do whatever it took to protect their world.

As the Brahmastra neared its culmination, the arena held its collective breath, and the destiny of Hastinapur teetered on a precipice. Arjuna's arrow, infused with the fury of the Brahmastra, was about to be unleashed, and the world stood on the brink of unimaginable upheaval.

As the unstoppable force of the Brahmastra surged toward him, Karna's divine nature began to emerge. His golden kavasa, the celestial armor gifted to him by Lord suryadev, started to materialize around his form. With a solemn determination, Karna closed his eyes and began to intone sacred mantras, invoking the cosmic forces that lay dormant within him.

The heavens themselves quaked as Karna's power swelled. In his outstretched hand, the divine Vijaya Dhanush, the celestial bow of invincibility, took form. Karna stood there, resplendent in his divine armor, his kundala shining brilliantly, and his hand firmly gripping the divine bow.

This transformation left both Dronacharya and Bhishma utterly stunned. They, along with everyone in attendance, could hardly believe their eyes as Karna, clad in celestial radiance, stood ready to confront the devastating power of the Brahmastra.

Amidst the unfolding spectacle, Kunti, who had been watching the proceedings with bated breath, finally understood the truth. She recognized her son, Karna, by the divine armor he wore. The revelation struck her with such force that she fell into unconsciousness, unable to bear the overwhelming emotions that surged within her.

Karna, now fully equipped with the divine blessings of his celestial lineage, raised Vijaya Dhanush high, ready to face the Brahmastra head-on. In this crucial moment, he called upon the Trisul Astra, a celestial weapon of immense power that could counter and neutralize the Brahmastra.

The stage was set for a clash of titanic forces—the invincible Vijaya Dhanush wielded by Karna against the world-destroying power of the Brahmastra. It was a battle of cosmic proportions, and the fate of Hastinapur hung in the balance.

TO BE CONTINUED.....