Yudhishthira Seeks His Elders' Blessings

Just then everyone saw a strange sight. Yudhishthira took off his armour, laid down his weapons, stepped down from his chariot and walked on foot towards the Kaurava army. His brothers were alarmed: 'Brother, where are you going?' Only Krishna smiled, for he knew what Yudhishthira meant to do.

Yudhishthira went straight to Grandsire Bhishma, touched his feet and said, 'Grandsire, we must fight you. Give us your permission and your blessing.' Bhishma's eyes filled with tears. 'Son, if you had not done this, I would have cursed you with defeat. Now I am pleased. Victory will be yours.'

Bhishma went on, 'A man is the servant of wealth; wealth is no one's servant. The Kauravas' food and wealth have bound me, so I will fight on their side.' Teacher Drona and the family guru Kripa said the same, and both blessed Yudhishthira with victory.

His uncle Shalya also blessed him. Yudhishthira asked him for one promise: 'When you become Karna's charioteer, keep weakening his spirit.' Shalya gave his word.

On the way back, Yudhishthira called out loudly, 'Anyone who wishes to join our side may come.' Yuyutsu, a son of Dhritarashtra, chose the side of dharma and crossed over to the Pandavas. Flowers rained from the sky, conches sounded, and the great war began.