The messenger of the Pandavas to Hastinapura did not succeed despite Bhishma asking Dhritrashtra for Indraprastha to be returned to the Pandavas. But Duryodhana was not ready at all for giving back the kingdom. So, the messenger returned. Dhritrashtra sent Sanjaya back to them. Sanjaya said that King Dhritrashtra wanted no war, but he wished to have friendship.
Yudhishthira felt happy and stated that they had been cheated out of their kingdom and Draupadi was insulted publicly. If the Kauravas gave them even five villages, one for each of them, they would make peace.
“The more patient you all are, the more vile King Dhritrashtra’s sons. They want war at any cost. But you all are peace-loving. So, try to avoid war,” Sanjay replied.
After thinking for a while Yudhishthira stated, “Krishna is neutral. We all will act upon his advice.”
After returning to Hastinapur Sanjay delivered the message of Yudhishthira in the court.
Bhishma said that it was right for the Pandavas to be given their land back. Besides, it was foolish to challenge them and Krishna, when Arjuna alone had defeated them in the war against Matsya kingdom. Dhritrashtra agreed out of fear. But Duryodhana said he would not give even a needle-point of land to the Pandavas.
The Pandavas and Krishna settled down to discuss the message Sanjaya had brought. So, Yudhishthira turned to Krishna to advise and guide them now in all matters of right conduct and statesmanship. Krishna agreed with them about war being certain. As a last measure, he decided to go as their ambassador of peace to Hastinapur.
Everyone should know, he said, that the Pandavas had made every effort to avoid war. With the intention of making peace Krishna headed straight to Hastinapur. When the king heard the news of Krishna’s arrival, he ordered the servants to make grand arrangements for his reception.
Reaching Hastinapur Krishna met Dhritrashtra and then went over to meet Vidura. There, he met his aunt Kunti and comforted her. He refused Duryodhana’s hospitality and stayed with Vidura.
Next day, Krishna went with Vidura to the court. He paid respect to elders and took his seat. Placing before the assembly the demand of the Pandavas Krishna stated, “O King! The Pandavas are peace-loving. But at the same time they are ready for the war. The Pandavas respect you all like father. So, please return the kingdom to them and make friendly relations.”
He was supported by Bhishma, preceptors Drona and Kripacharya, Vidura and other honourable people.
But the vile Duryodhana did not relent. All the royal people tried to persuade him but in vain. He held himself innocent and stated that the Pandavas should again spend 12 years in exile and one year in hiding. At this, Krishna burst out laughing. He made Duryodhana remember all the tortures he inflicted upon the Pandavas. Bhishma again supported Krishna. Thereupon Duryodhana was filled with rage and spoke out, “O Krishna! You have come here as a messenger. Don’t try to cross your limits, otherwise you will be imprisoned.”
Krishna revealed his Cosmic Form (Viratroopa) to the court. All except Bhishma, preceptor Drona and Vidura were dazzled. Krishna went away from there and comforted Kunti again. He sent the message to Yudhishthira and himself went over to Dwarika for the preparations of the impending war.
