Rise of the Pandavas and Seeds of Jealousy

Duryodhana greatly yearned to become the crown prince. When Yudhishthira was crowned the prince of Hastinapura, he was very upset. Meanwhile, the Pandavas showed that they were brave, virtuous, and popular. Within a short time, Yudhishthira proved that he was more noble, truthful, and intelligent than even his father, Pandu.

The second-oldest Pandava, Bhima, learned sword fighting, mace fighting, and horse riding from Lord Krishna's elder brother, Balarama. Arjuna was well known for his accuracy in archery, agility, and expertise in using various weapons. Guru Drona felt that Arjuna was invincible. Sahadeva learned ethics and moral conduct from Guru Drona. Drona was regarded as the brother of Brihaspati, the gods' guru. Nakula gained proficiency in using extraordinary and uncommon weapons.

Dhritarashtra seemed to align with the Pandavas, but he secretly favored his son Duryodhana. When the Pandavas' growing strength worried Dhritarashtra, he sought counsel from his evil minister, Kanika:

"Fortune seems to be favoring the Pandavas, who have been continuously successful. Should I consider them my allies or my enemies? I will do as you advise."

Kanika replied, "O King, listen carefully. You must adopt the strategic principles of persuasion and governance. Persuade your enemies to join you, and give them gifts. If they don't agree, use force or divide them."

Dhritarashtra then asked, "What is the most effective strategy against one's enemies—persuasion, incentives, force, or division?"