Ep 9. Episode 9

In Mahabharat season 1 episode 9, the story takes a dramatic turn as the rivalry between the Pandavas and Kauravas intensifies. The episode opens with Dhritarashtra, the blind king, expressing his concern about the upcoming battle between his sons and the Pandavas. He seeks the advice of Vidura, who suggests that he should send a message to the Pandavas, inviting them to peace talks.

Meanwhile, the Pandavas are preparing for war, and Arjuna seeks the blessings of Lord Shiva before the battle. He visits a temple and performs a rigorous penance to please the lord. Eventually, Lord Shiva appears before him and grants him a boon. Arjuna requests a powerful weapon, and Lord Shiva gives him the Pashupatastra, which has the power to destroy a whole army single-handedly.

Upon receiving the invitation from Dhritarashtra, the Pandavas agree to attend a peace conference. However, the Kauravas plan to cheat them and invite the Pandavas to a rigged game of dice. Shakuni, the cunning strategist, manipulates the situation and ensures that Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, loses everything he has, including his kingdom, himself, and his brothers.

The episode takes a dramatic and emotional turn, as the Pandavas face their worst nightmare. Yudhishthira, who is known for his righteousness, falls into the trap of the Kauravas and gambles away everything he holds dear. His brothers try to defend him, but he refuses to listen to their advice and continues to play the game.

The scene is heart-wrenching as Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, is humiliated in public by Dushasana, the Kaurava prince. He drags her by her hair and tries to disrobe her in front of the entire court. Draupadi protests and pleads for help, but no one comes to her rescue. She calls out to her husbands for help, but they are unable to do anything as their hands are tied.

The episode ends on a cliffhanger as Draupadi asks a crucial question to the assembly. She asks whether a wife who has been won in a game of dice has the right to speak in public. The question leaves everyone stunned, and the fate of the Pandavas hangs in the balance.

Overall, episode 9 is a riveting and emotional episode that sets the stage for the rest of the series. It showcases the cunning and deceitful nature of the Kauravas while highlighting the steadfast righteousness and bravery of the Pandavas. The episode also highlights the plight of women in ancient India and their struggle for dignity and respect.