As the clang of weapons draws closer, Duryodhana makes onefinal attempt—not at peace, but provocation. He sends his messenger Uluka to the Pandavas' camp, not with terms of truce, but words laced with mockery and insult. Each Pandava, however, answers not with anger but with fierce clarity, declaring their resolve and righteousness.

Meanwhile, far from this exchange of barbs, Bhishma prepares for a war he never wished for. Burdened by his dharma and loyalty, he insists that the battle, however bloody, must stillretain its moral compass. He lays down the rules of engagement—when to fight, whom to fight, and when to stop—guiding the greatest war with a code of conduct never before seen.

This episode captures the sharp contrast between petty provocation and principled preparation—where dignity stands tall even on the edge of destruction.

As the war becomes inevitable, both the Pandavas andKauravas begin massive preparations. The time has come to choose their commanders.

On the side of the Kauravas, Bhishma Pitamaha—venerable, wise, and unmatched in valor—is declared the Supreme Commander. Yet, he lays down clear conditions:
– He will not fight against Shikhandi.
– He will not kill any of the Pandavas.
– The rules of Dharma Yuddha must be followed: no fighting after sunset, no attacking an unarmed or retreatingwarrior, and no harming those not engaged in battle.
– Most importantly, Karna must stay awayfrom the battlefield as long as Bhishma is the commander, citing his disapproval and mistrust of Karna’s conduct.

The Pandavas appoint the fiery and determined Druṣṭadyumna, born to slay Drona, as their commander-in-chief.

Karna, though hurt by Bhishma’s words, agrees to stay away until Bhishma lays down arms. With everything in place,drums beat and conches blow. Two mighty armies—each with millions of warriors, elephants, chariots, and horses—marchtoward Kurukshetra, where destiny awaits. The battlefield is set for the greatest war in history.

In this poignant episode, long-held secrets come to light as Kunti meets Karna on the banks of the Ganga. With trembling voice and teary eyes, she reveals the truth he never knew—that she is his mother, and he is the eldest of the Pandavas. The revelation shakes Karna, but his loyalty to Duryodhana remains unbroken. With dignity and pain, he refuses Kunti's plea to join the Pandavas, yet makes a solemn vow: he will not harm any of her sons—except Arjuna, his sworn rival.

As Kunti walks away, heart heavy, returning to Vidura’s house, the heavens prepare for another test of Karna's spirit. Indra, Arjuna's divine father, arrives in disguise as a brahmana. He asks Karna for the very things that protect his life—his divine armour and earrings. True to his nature, Karna does not hesitate. He cuts them from his body and gives them away, bleeding but proud. Moved by this ultimate act of charity, Indra blesses him with the Ekaastra—a divine weapon that can be used only once.

A tale of silent love, unwavering loyalty, and the nobility of sacrifice—this episode reveals the depth of Karna’s character and the tragedy that shadows him.