The Pandavas and the sons of Dhritrashtra learnt righteous conduct, politics and wealth related matters from Kripacharya and art of warfare from Drona. A public display of their expertise was held.
Yudhishthira performed exceptionally well in the knowledge of religion, justice and politics. Both Bhima and Duryodhana displayed their skills in fighting with mace. Out of jealousy Duryodhana struck Bhima with his mace violating the rules of the contest; somehow, both of them were separated.
Arjuna showed his skills in using all the weapons, especially in archery. Suddenly, there was a new entrant named Karna in the arena. Karna challenged Arjuna. This delighted Duryodhana.
Duryodhana welcomed Karna, and Karna was prepared to face Arjuna. Thereupon Kripacharya observed, “This contest is open for princes alone. Introduce yourself.” Karna replied thus, “I am Karna, the son of Adhiratha (Bhishma’s Charioteer) and Radha. Sage Parashuram is my preceptor.” Hearing these words Kripacharya retorted, “You can’t take part in the contest as you are the son of a charioteer. Duryodhana immediately declared and crowned Karna king of Anga.
With the permission of one and all a battle ensued between Arjuna and Karna. Both were great warriors and equal in prowess. Queen Kunti had recognised her son Karna. She lost consciousness seeing the battle between the two brothers.
When all the princes were successful in the contest, their preceptor Drona asked for the capture of his old enemy, King Drupada, as gurudakshina.
The Pandavas carried out the mission successfully and presented King Drupada as a captive before Drona, who took away half his kingdom.
Since Yudhishthira was the eldest of King Pandu’s sons, he was declared as the successor. This upset Dhritrashtra who was hoping that his son Duryodhana would be the successor.
