Pandu

Vyasa finishes the story of Surabhi and Indra and turns its lesson directly on Dhritarashtra. Just as Surabhi's compassion was greatest for the oppressed son, Dhritarashtra's compassion should be greatest for the oppressed Pandavas. If he wishes the Kouravas to live, he must send Duryodhana to make peace.

Seated in the forest with her husbands, Draupadi watches them suffer in silence while Duryodhana celebrates in the city. She turns to Yudhishthira and begins to speak — not to console, but to question why a king who can destroy his enemies feels no anger at seeing his brothers and his wife reduced to rags and mud.

Dhritarashtra asks Vidura to speak words about dharma and supreme welfare. Vidura delivers an extensive discourse on the marks of the learned and the stupid, enumerating vices and virtues, and recounts an ancient history about the asura Indra instructing Sudhanva for his son's welfare. He concludes by reminding Dhritarashtra that the Pandavas are waiting for his instructions and that returning their kingdom will bring him happiness and divine approval.