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| Envoys and Missions |
Krishna once again gave the same reply: "For the welfare of both of you, I have decided that I will go to Hastinapura myself. I do not have much hope in the outcome of my mission, but still we should do all that is possible towards a peaceful settlement.
When the news of Krishna’s arrival reached Hastinapura, Dhritarashtra gave orders for a palace to be kept in readiness for him and a great feast prepared. But Krishna declined all this saying, "It is not proper for an envoy to accept a king’s hospitality till his mission is accomplished." After paying his respects to Dhritarashtra he went straight to Vidur’s house. Vidur was not at home. Kunti, Krishna’s aunt was in the kitchen. Sitting next to her Krishna said, "I am very hungry. Give me something to eat."
Kunti was in a fix. She knew there was not even a handful of flour in the house, so poor was Vidur. Hiding her confusion she said, "Dear son, I am cooking some greens. Wait a bit and your uncle Vidur will soon be here. He will get some provisions and I will cook a proper meal for you." But Krishna said, "I am so hungry I cannot wait. Give me the greens you have made," Kunti served it to him.
Krishna ate it with great relish, and when he had finished he said, "Aunt, I have never tasted anything so delicious in my life.
This was as enjoyable as the curd and roti which my mother Yashoda gave me when I was young.
The next morning Krishna went to royal court along with Vidur. As Krishna entered, all the assembled kings stood up. After he had explained the purpose of his visit, he addressed Dhritarashtra. "O king," he said, "do not bring destruction on your people. The Pandavas want peace, but they are also prepared for war if it is thrust upon them. Make an honourable settlement with them," Dhritarashtra replied, "Krishna, I too desire peace but my sons do not listen to me. I request you to try to persuade Duryodhana in this matter."
Krishna then tried to reason with Duryodhana, but he refused to listen. "I shall not give even an inch of territory to the Pandavas, "And he walked out of the assembly.
Krishna returned to Upaplavya. War had now become a certainty. | |
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