“What were you discussing so animatedly about?” Kunti sat down between Nakula and Sahadeva. Draupadi sat next to Bheema and Subhadra sat near her husband. “I could hear raised voices from upstairs,” said Draupadi. “It was nothing important,” said Bheema. “Nothing important?” Asked Kunti. “Then why were you arguing?” “We were not arguing,” said Yudhistira. … More The Life that Never Was: Parts Thirteen and Fourteen

Arjuna saw Vasusena turn his head and before he dropped his eyes, he had seen the anguish in his eyes. He had not believed it possible for his worst enemy to have such an expression in his eyes. He wondered what Krishna had said to cause that pain.   Vasusena rose and walked to the … More The Life that Never Was: Parts Eleven and Twelve

Yudhistira watched Krishna talk to Vasusena. The two were conversing on low tones. He wondered what they were talking about. “What are they talking about?” Muttered Bheema. “That’s what I too would like to find out,” murmured Yudhistira. They both looked at Arjuna who had the sharpest hearing amongst the five. Arjuna shook his head. … More The Life that Never Was: Part Ten

“When did you start? This morning?” Krishna’s voice intruded into his thoughts. Vasusena nodded. “How about you?” “We started yesterday night after the terms had been agreed on. The armies had been disbanded and sent to their respective kingdoms. Pitamaha Bheeshma has taken personal responsibility for the armies of Anga.” Vasusena felt relieved. He was … More The Life that Never Was: Part Nine

The young man looked at him in confusion, but Vasusena had recovered his composure. With a nod at the occupants of the room, he walked inside and sat down on to an empty couch as far away from them as possible. The room was low ceilinged and warm. It was also crowded with chairs and … More The Life that Never Was: Part Eight

The building appeared deserted. It was small, but appeared strong and well maintained. A young man came outside as he dismounted and knocked at the gate. Vasusena noticed the young man was a cripple and walked with a limp. He also had a squint. But his smile was pleasant as he opened the gate and … More The Life That Never Was Part Seven

Vasusena bid farewell to his wife as he mounted his horse. It was not a tearful farewell. For the first time since the war was announced, there was hope in both their hearts. He had decided to leave the chariot behind as he could go faster on horseback. He was also travelling light, taking only … More The Life that Never Was: Part Six