Shakuni Hatches a Conspiracy

"If I defeat the Pandavas in battle, there will be no one to oppose me," said Duryodhana. "But this is unlikely to happen."

A conspiracy began to take form in Shakuni's mind. He said, "Since they are powerful warriors, defeating them will be difficult. Yudhishthira is addicted to gambling but is an amateur at the game. I, on the other hand, am an expert. Invite him to a game of dice. Being a Kshatriya, he won't be able to turn down your challenge. Once he sits down to play, consider his kingdom, prosperity, and peace as good as lost. Then victory will be yours, dear nephew."

"Uncle, please ask the king's permission to play a game of dice. I have no courage left."

One day, when the opportunity arose, Shakuni went up to Dhritarashtra and said, "O King of Bharata, you don't seem worried at all about the state of your son. He is so sad that he hardly eats, drinks, or sleeps. You should try to discover the cause of his sorrow."

The worried king hurried towards his son's room. "What is this I'm hearing, dear son?" he said to Duryodhana. "What worries you? You have all of life's comforts and conveniences. Every desire of yours is fulfilled in an instant. Then what has happened that has distressed you so much?"

"Who can remain calm while watching their enemies flourish?" Duryodhana spoke his mind. "Kunti's children have attained fame, power, and sovereignty, whereas I am but an ordinary prince. After the successful conclusion of their Rajasuya Yajna, they have become universal emperors. The most powerful kings and princes and the most knowledgeable Brahmins and sages brought expensive jewels and ornaments as gifts."

Then Shakuni entered the room and described his scheme to Duryodhana in Dhritarashtra's presence. He acted as if he were presenting the idea to Duryodhana for the first time. "I can win everything the Pandavas have and give it all to you. Nobody can beat me at rolling dice. Yudhishthira loves playing dice but is a novice. Invite him to a game, and I will lay all that he has at your feet."