Mahabharata Book Four

The Book of Virta details the Pndavas 13th year in exile, when they live disguised in King Virta's court. They suffer the humiliation of becoming servants; a topic explored both through comedy and pathos. Having maintained their disguise until the very end of the year, then their troubles really begin. Bhima is forced to come to Drupadi's rescue when King Virta's general, Kchaka, sets his sights on her. Durydhana and the Trigartas decide to invade the defeated Virta's kingdom, unaware the Pndavas are hidden there. In the ensuing battles the Pndavas play a crucial role, save Virta and reveal their true identities. The book ends in celebration, with the Pndavas ready to return from exile and reclaim their kingdom. However, the battles in Virta foreshadow the war to come, proving it will not be easy. Co-published by New York University Press and the JJC Foundation For more on this title and other titles in the Clay Sanskrit series, please visit http://www.claysanskritlibrary.org