Escape Into the Forest

Every day, the Pandavas set out on horseback or on hunting expeditions to gain geographical knowledge of the region. At night, they slept in the same room with their weapons close by. Soon, the tunnel began to be dug out. The miner carefully concealed the tunnel's entrance, which was in the Pandavas' bedroom.

Purochana provided every amenity for the Pandavas so they would not sense his malicious intentions. Before Purochana executed his plot, Yudhisthira warned the other Pandavas about it and said it was time to surreptitiously exit the mansion. At night, Bhima used a torch to set fire to the walls and pillars. The Pandavas then left the mansion through the tunnel and reached the forest safe and sound. Meanwhile, the palace went up in flames and Purochana was burned alive.

The Pandavas had escaped Duryodhana's plot. Bhima was entrusted with everyone's safety. After journeying through the woods for some time, they grew tired and thirsty and decided to rest under an enormous banyan tree. Bhima found a lake nearby and fetched water for all of them. After drinking the water, his mother and brothers fell into a deep slumber while he stayed awake and watched over them.

Unbeknownst to them, danger lurked nearby. The demon Hidimba, who lived in the forest, sensed the aroma of human flesh. He told his sister, Hidimbi, "Find the humans and kill them so we may feast upon their meat."

Hidimbi headed toward the smell and found the Pandavas sleeping. But when she saw Bhima, she was attracted to him and decided not to obey her brother's instructions. Instead, she transformed into a beautiful young woman and daintily approached Bhima. She said, "Hello, who are you? And who are these people sleeping here?" 

After Bhima answered, Hidimbi revealed that she was a demoness. She said, "My brother, the demon Hidimba, is the owner of this forest. He sent me here to kill you all. None of you are safe here. Hurry! I'll get everyone to a secure place before he arrives."