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Yudhiṣṭhira looked in wonder at Arjuna. A eunuch! How astonishing were the movements of destiny.

Yudhiṣṭhira spoke to Arjuna. “O ruler of men, what is your view? How shall we remain incognito?”

Yudhiṣṭhira nodded approvingly and turned to Arjuna, “What work will Dhanañjaya--who possesses invincible of all planets, the Brahmin the best of all men, and the thunderbolt the best of all weapons, so Arjuna

Arjuna replied doubtfully, “O virtuous one, how will you become the servant of the king?

Yudhiṣṭhira reassured Arjuna. “There will be no problem.

As they walked on he said to Arjuna, “If we enter Virata with our weapons, we will frighten the citizens

In a deep voice that echoed around the court, Arjuna replied, “I sing, dance and play musical instruments

In the guise of a eunuch Arjuna began living with the women in Virata’s palace, instructing them in singing

Arjuna listed a number of countries where their allies lived and asked Yudhiṣṭhira which he felt was

When none of them could identify him, the king turned to Arjuna and said, “You appear endowed with the

Arjuna suggested they wrap their weapons into a cloth bundle and place them high in the tree.

Arjuna then remembered Urvaśī’s curse and Indra’s subsequent instruction.

Then, on the day after Arjuna entered, he appeared in the city.

“I was formerly a friend of Yudhiṣṭhira and my name is Kaṅka. I am expert in casting dice and can entertain and please you in that way.”

He lit the sacred fire and offered oblations on their behalf, invoking auspiciousness upon them and blessing The brothers and Draupadī then walked around the sacred fire and, after bowing before the Brahmins, left

Virata gazed at Bhīma’s massive arms and broad chest. “I cannot believe that you are a cook. You shine like the thousand-eyed deity, and from your grace, beauty and prowess you appear to be the

Yudhiṣṭhira was then shown to his quarters in the king’s palace and he began to live there happily and

You will ride on my chariot, wear the best clothes, and enjoy the finest dishes. My door will always be open to you, and you will become my closest advisor and counselor.”

“I used to reside in Indraprastha and I took care of the innumerable cows there,” Sahadeva answered. O King, I desire only my residence and upkeep and will serve you to the best of my ability.”

Previously I have served Satyabhāmā, Kṛṣṇa’s beloved queen, and Draupadī, the Pāṇḍavas’ wife.