Chapter 21 : The Years of Exile As the Pandavas began their journey into exile, their departure cast a shadow of sorrow over their kingdom. Their loyal subjects mourned the loss of their beloved leaders, while their enemies, especially the Kauravas, rejoiced at the turn of events. Stripped of their royal robes and adorned jewels, the Pandavas took only their weapons, symbols of their resolve and readiness for whatever lay ahead. A procession of supporters, Rishis, and Brahmanas, fearful of the ruthless Kauravas, followed the Pandavas into the wilderness. But Yudhishtra, ever mindful of the burdens his choices had placed on others, gently urged them to stay behind. He didn’t want anyone else to suffer for what he saw as his own mistakes. Once settled in the forest, the Pandavas built a simple hut and adjusted to their new life. Countless stories from their time in exile could fill many chapters, but I’ll share a few that stand out. One notable incident involved the Akshaya Patra, a...