Duryodhana’s Attack on Virata

When Duryodhana learned of Kichaka’s death, he saw an opportunity to strike. Knowing that Bhima, the powerful Pandava, was the only strong warrior in Viratnagar, Duryodhana decided to invade Viratnagar, hoping to capture the Pandavas and take advantage of their weakened state.

Susharma, the ruler of Trigarta and a longstanding enemy of King Virata, joined forces with Duryodhana. Together, they launched a two-pronged attack on Viratnagar, with Duryodhana’s forces attacking from one side and Susharma’s from the other. The citizens of Viratnagar panicked, but Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, calmed their fears and offered his help to King Virata. Accompanied by his brothers, Yudhishthira led the defense against the invaders.

A fierce battle ensued. Bhima defended Viratnagar with great strength, capturing Susharma and forcing his army to retreat. Meanwhile, Duryodhana managed to steal away the cattle of Virata, taking them as spoils to assert his power.

In the midst of this chaos, Uttara, the prince of Virata, grew frightened. Arjuna, who had been living in disguise as Uttara’s teacher, stepped forward. He encouraged the young prince, and together they rode out to face Duryodhana’s forces. When Duryodhana recognized Arjuna, he was taken aback, realizing the Pandavas were not as vulnerable as he thought.

With his formidable skills and the power of his divine weapons, Arjuna defeated Duryodhana’s forces, retrieving the cattle and liberating Viratnagar from the threat. The people rejoiced as King Virata celebrated the Pandavas’ bravery and victory.

**Moral:** True strength lies not in seizing opportunities for personal gain but in standing firm to protect those in need.