CHAPTER 59: Face Reveal

As Karna stood on the stage, his divine form radiating celestial brilliance, the gods themselves gathered atop the kalapradharshan. Among them, Devi Shakti, the divine consort of Lord Shiva, couldn't contain her joy. She beheld her husband's avatar, resplendent without any earthly adornments, and this sight filled her heart with boundless happiness. To see her beloved Lord shining so brightly in the kalapradharshan was a source of immense delight.

The confrontation between Karna and the Brahmastra was a spectacle like no other. With the trisul astra evoked by Karna, the two immensely powerful astras met in a cataclysmic clash. The very fabric of reality seemed to shudder as these cosmic forces clashed, each vying for supremacy.

In the end, it was Karna's trisul astra that prevailed. It neutralized the world-destroying power of the Brahmastra, averting imminent catastrophe. However, such celestial battles were not without consequences, and the side-effects of these astras began to spread, filling the vicinity with dangerous radiation.

Witnessing the unfolding events, Karna understood the peril that this radiation posed to those around him. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, his divine kundalas gleaming, ready to absorb the harmful energy emanating in all directions.

The people of Hastinapur, including the royal family, watched in awe as Karna selflessly absorbed the potent radiation. It was a testament to his boundless strength and unwavering commitment to protect the kingdom and its people, regardless of his lineage or status.

Devi Shakti, looking down from the divine realm, smiled with full of love. Her husband, the great Lord Shiva, was indeed embodied in this noble warrior who stood as a shield for Hastinapur.

As Karna absorbed the dangerous radiation, the people of Hastinapur felt an unusual warmth and energy enveloping them. It was as though a protective aura had descended upon the kingdom, shielding its inhabitants from harm.

Radha, Karna's mother, who had been anxiously watching the entire spectacle, felt an overwhelming surge of pride and love for her divine son. She couldn't help but shed tears of joy, realizing that her son had returned not only as a great warrior but as a savior to the people of Hastinapur.

Krishna, from his vantage point in the audience, observed Karna's actions with deep respect. He knew the true identity of the young man, the avatar of Lord Shiva, and understood the magnitude of what had just transpired. Karna's selfless act of protecting the kingdom resonated deeply with Krishna, who recognized that Karna was not just a warrior but a guardian of dharma.

The gods, having witnessed this remarkable display of power and sacrifice, showered blessings upon Karna. Lord Shiva, in his divine realm, nodded in approval, acknowledging the embodiment of his own essence in Karna's actions.

With Karna's absorption of the radiation, the immediate danger had passed. The kalapradharshan stage, once again stable, was surrounded by awe-struck spectators who now held the young warrior in the highest regard.

Dronacharya, Bhishma, and the other royal members of Hastinapur were left in a state of profound reverence for Karna. Even the proud Pandavas, who had initially challenged the suta putra, was humbled by the sheer magnitude of Karna's abilities.

In the midst of this reverential atmosphere, Karna stepped forward, his gaze unwavering. He turned towards Arjuna, who had been both witness and participant in this extraordinary event. Their battle had been postponed by the unforeseen clash of astras, but the tension between them remained palpable.

Karna: (His voice resonates with anger) Guru Dronacharya, does your disciple not understand the sanctity and responsibility that comes with wielding a divine Astra? How dare he attempt to invoke Brahmastra in a mere competition?

Dronacharya: (Taken aback) young man, my dear disciple, this was unforeseen. Arjuna acted out of frustration and a desire to prove his prowess. I had no knowledge of his intentions.

Karna: (His eyes blazing with intensity) Regardless of his intentions, Guru, the misuse of such a powerful Astra is inexcusable. It could have brought catastrophe upon this land. Such actions go against the very principles of dharma.

Bhishma: (Nodding in agreement) He is right, Dronacharya. The use of a divine Astra should only be for the protection of dharma and the welfare of the world. Arjuna's actions were reckless.

Arjuna: (Feeling a deep sense of remorse) I... I am deeply sorry for my actions. It was foolish and irresponsible. I never intended for this to happen.

Karna: (His anger subsiding, but his tone firm) Apologies alone won't suffice, Arjuna. The misuse of such power carries consequences. It is a lesson we all must learn, one way or another.

Duryodhana: (Whispering to Shakuni) This young man wisdom and strength are beyond measure. Even in his anger, he displays a sense of righteousness that is rare.

Shakuni: (Nodding) Indeed, Duryodhana. His presence here has already altered the dynamics of this competition and, perhaps, the fate of Hastinapur.

The onlookers, including the royal members, were left in awe of Karna's profound understanding of dharma and his unwavering commitment to upholding it. His chastisement of Arjuna served as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities that came with wielding divine powers.

As the tension in the kalapradharshan began to subside, the people of Hastinapur couldn't help but feel a deep respect and admiration for the enigmatic warrior who had returned to their kingdom. Karna's presence had indeed ushered in a new era, one that held the promise of change and transformation.

Bhima: (Stepping forward) you may have stopped Arjuna's Brahmastra, but you won't—

Karna: (Interrupting, his gaze piercing) Bhima, I suggest you choose your words wisely.

Bhima: (Stuttering, his confidence waning) I... I won't let you insult my brother.

Karna: (His voice stern) Bhima, it is not I who insulted your brother. His actions spoke for themselves. It is imperative that we understand the gravity of misusing such divine powers.

Arjuna: (Regretful) He is right, Bhima. I acted recklessly, and I accept the consequences.

Yudhishthira: (Approaching, his tone calm) Let us not escalate this matter further. What's done is done. We must learn from it and move forward.

Duryodhana: (Whispering to Shakuni) His presence commands respect and obedience even from the Pandavas.

Shakuni: (Nodding) Yes, Duryodhana. He has demonstrated not only strength but also wisdom beyond his years.

Bhima, feeling the weight of Karna's gaze and the collective wisdom of those around him, reluctantly stepped back. Karna's aura of authority left a lasting impression on everyone present, making it clear that he was a force to be reckoned with, both in terms of physical prowess and moral integrity.

Krishna: (Approaching Karna) Karna, calm yourself. There's no need for anger now.

Karna: (Still agitated) But Krishna he... he invoked the Brahmastra...

Krishna: (Placing a reassuring hand on Karna's shoulder) Yes, but it's over. Let's not dwell on it.

Bhishma: (Stepping forward) Young man, who are you? Reveal your face to us.

Krishna: (Stepping in) Allow me to introduce him,Pitamah bhishma.He is the one whom Mata Ganga accepted as her own child after you Pitamah Bhishma. He is the one whom Mata Gandhari loves much more than her own sons. Raised by a full of love by Mata Radha, he is the third and favorite disciple of Guru Parashuram,Mata Dharani herself considers him as her child. His name is Karna... Karna... Karna...

As Krishna introduced Karna to the royal members and the crowd, there was a mixture of astonishment and reverence. Karna, once a mysterious figure in the shadows, was now revealed before everyone. His identity left an indelible mark on the minds of those present, showcasing his unique and extraordinary position in the kingdom.

As Karna's face was unveiled to the world, a hushed awe descended upon the assembly. His appearance was unlike anything anyone had seen before. The common people, who had initially been captivated by his radiance, couldn't contain their admiration any longer. They began to chant his name, "Karna... Karna... Karna..." The fervor of their chant rippled through the crowd, expressing their deep reverence for this extraordinary young man.

Bhishma, a seasoned warrior and statesman, found himself at a loss for words. Karna's countenance was beyond description, an ethereal beauty that seemed to transcend mortal boundaries. Bhishma couldn't help but feel that this young man was no ordinary mortal.

Meanwhile, as Radha and Shon approached Karna, their eyes welled with tears of joy. Radha, the woman who had raised Karna as her own, hugged him tightly. She couldn't believe that her son had returned, not only as a radiant young man but also as someone who had achieved greatness.

Shon, Karna's youngest brother, stood beside them, unable to hide his excitement. He had always looked up to his elder brother Karna, considering him a hero and a role model. The moment he had been waiting for had finally arrived, and he couldn't have been happier.

Among the most jubilant were the Kauravas, who saw not only their beloved brother but also their mentor and friend standing before them. Duryodhana's eyes sparkled with pride as he embraced Karna. The 100 princes, who had trained and laughed together in their youth, now gathered around their brother, ready to celebrate his return and eager to catch up on lost time.

The atmosphere was electric with joy and anticipation, and the people of Hastinapur could hardly contain their excitement. The return of Karna, the enigmatic figure who had left as a boy and returned as a radiant young man, was a momentous occasion that no one would ever forget. It marked a turning point in the destiny of Hastinapur, one that held the promise of both greatness and uncertainty.

As the Kaurava brothers surrounded Karna, their emotions overflowed. The years of separation and the longing for their elder brother had finally come to an end. They couldn't contain their joy, and laughter and tears mingled in their heartfelt embrace. Duryodhana, the eldest among them, held Karna tightly and exclaimed, "Karna, you've returned to us! We've missed you more than words can express."

Karna, too, was overwhelmed by this reunion. He had missed his younger brothers, and despite his dignified demeanor, his heart swelled with emotion. He greeted each of the Kauravas with love and affection, the bond between them stronger than ever.

As the Kauravas celebrated with Karna, Bhishma and Dronacharya watched in astonishment. They couldn't fathom how Karna had become such an extraordinary figure in his absence. The people's reverence and the Kauravas' adoration were undeniable proof of Karna's elevated status.

On the other side of the gathering, the Pandavas felt a twinge of jealousy and insecurity. They were used to being the center of attention, especially as the sons of gods. But now, Karna's popularity had eclipsed their own. Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, couldn't help but wonder who this mysterious Karna was and what made him so special.

Amidst this tumultuous welcome, blindfolded Gandhari, supported by her maids, slowly made her way to Karna. She could sense the emotional intensity of the moment, even if she couldn't see it. As she approached Karna, he respectfully touched her feet in a gesture of reverence.

However, Gandhari, driven by her motherly instincts, reached out and pulled Karna into a tight embrace. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she held onto her son, her heart full of mixed emotions—joy, relief, and sorrow for all the years she had missed with him. The maids and others present at this touching reunion couldn't help but be moved by the depth of a mother's love and the powerful bond between Gandhari and Karna.

The entire assembly, whether they were from the royal family or commoners, witnessed this emotional moment. It was a reminder that amidst the grandeur of power and politics, the most profound and genuine emotions were often found in the simplest of human connections—between a mother and her child.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the gathering, Karna's return had not only illuminated Hastinapur but had also ignited the hearts of its people. The world was now witness to a reunion that transcended time and circumstance, reminding everyone that love, family, and the enduring bonds of kinship were the true treasures of life.

TO BE CONTINUED....