The Agnisanskar - A Farewell to the Beloved King

The news of King Pandu's passing spread like wildfire throughout the kingdom of Hastinapura, leaving its people in mourning. The palace became a place of solemnity, as preparations were made for the sacred agnisanskar—the final rite to honor the departed king.

The courtiers and nobles gathered in the grand courtyard, where a majestic funeral pyre had been erected. The Pandavas, clad in mourning attire, stood as pillars of strength beside their mother, Queen Kunti. Despite their grief, they knew that they must perform the last rites with unwavering dignity and honor. Madri who is second wife of pandu decide to became sati.(when husband dies wife will also dies with husband to go to afterlife together is called sati.)

Amidst the somber ambiance, the court priests began the sacred rituals. With chants and hymns echoing through the air, the flames were kindled, rising gracefully towards the heavens. The pyre crackled, as if eager to carry the soul of the benevolent king to the celestial realms.

As the flames consumed the pyre, the Pandavas watched with tears streaming down their cheeks. Each brother recalled the cherished memories they had shared with their father—the wise counsel, the affectionate laughter, and the lessons that had shaped their character.

Yudhishthira, the eldest, stood with a heavy heart, contemplating the weight of the kingdom that now rested on his shoulders. His grief was layered with the realization that he must now step into his father's shoes, bearing the burden of kingship and the responsibilities it entailed.

Bhima, known for his might and courage, struggled to contain his emotions. His booming voice, once filled with laughter and joy, was now hushed by sorrow. He knew that the absence of his father's physical presence would leave an unfillable void in their lives.

Nakula and Sahadeva, the twins born of celestial grace, stood with a sense of quiet sorrow. Their bond as brothers was now intensified, as they sought strength in each other's presence to endure the pain of loss.

Arjuna, the skilled archer and noble prince, grieved deeply for the man who had been both a father and mentor to him. His heart ached for the guidance and encouragement he had always received from King Pandu.

As the ritual continued, Queen Kunti stood with a regal poise, her grief concealed behind a veil of strength. She knew that her sons needed her to be the pillar of support in this time of sorrow, and she resolved to be their rock, even as her own heart mourned the loss of her beloved husband as well as sister Madri.

The courtiers, ministers, and people of Hastinapura paid their respects, offering prayers and condolences to the royal family. The entire kingdom stood united in grief, acknowledging the profound impact of King Pandu's life and reign.

As the flames finally subsided, the ashes of the beloved king mingled with the sacred earth, signifying his return to the cosmic elements from which all life arises. The Pandavas, with tear-streaked faces, paid their final respects, bidding a silent farewell to their father and king.

In the days that followed, the palace of Hastinapura remained draped in mourning, as the Pandavas navigated the depths of their grief. Yet, amidst their sorrow, they found solace in each other's company and the knowledge that they were bound together by a bond of brotherhood and divine destiny.

The departure of King Pandu marked the end of an era, and the Pandavas knew that the road ahead would be arduous and filled with challenges. They resolved to honor their father's legacy and uphold the principles of justice and righteousness he had instilled in them.

In the midst of grief, a resolve was born—to stand united as brothers, to embrace their divine lineage, and to rise above the trials that awaited them. The flame of their father's memory burned brightly in their hearts, a guiding light as they stepped into a future filled with both sorrow and triumph, in the epic tale of the Mahabharata.