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As the first light of dawn once again bathed the city of Hastinapur in its golden glow, the bustling streets and lively markets bore witness to the passage of time. Three years had flown by since the secret adoption ceremony of Aditya, the radiant prince of Hastinapur, and much had changed within the royal family and the kingdom itself.

Within the heart of the palace lay the grand royal sabha of Hastinapur, a place where decisions of utmost importance were deliberated upon and royal edicts were pronounced.

The sabha exuded an air of regal magnificence, its towering pillars and intricately carved arches serving as a testament to the kingdom's opulence and grandeur.

At the center of the sabha, the seat where the king's authority rested lay empty, symbolizing the weighty decision yet to be made regarding who would ascend the throne of Hastinapur.

On one side of the sabha sat the venerable Bhishma, his presence commanding respect and authority, while on the other side, the royal matriarch, Rajmata Satyavati, alongside Gandhari, Dritharashtra, and his mother Ambika and Ambalika, exuded a sense of grace and dignity befitting their royal lineage.

However, the absence of Vidur and Pandu was noticeable, their chairs standing vacant, hinting at the important task they were entrusted with.

As the people of Hastinapur filed into the sabha, their faces filled with reverence and admiration, a hushed silence fell over the assembly. Guarded whispers and exchanged glances conveyed a sense of anticipation among the gathered royals, prompting Bhishma to inquire about the purpose of their visit.

Stepping forward with a sense of purpose, one among the crowd addressed Bhishma, "Mahamahim Bhishma, as you know, every year we celebrate Rajkumar Aditya's birthday as a grand festival." The mention of Aditya's birthday elicited smiles of warmth and affection from the royals, their hearts swelling with pride at the love and reverence shown by their subjects.

It was a well-known fact that the people of Hastinapur celebrated Aditya's birthday with unparalleled enthusiasm and devotion. Each year, the entire kingdom was transformed into a vibrant spectacle of celebration, with streets adorned in colorful decorations and bustling with various food fairs and cultural programs in his honor. What made this tradition even more remarkable was that the people of Hastinapur never sought any assistance or support from the royal family for these festivities. They took great pride in their ability to organize and execute the celebrations entirely on their own, within their means, as a heartfelt expression of their love and loyalty towards Rajkumar Aditya. This dedication and self-sufficiency spoke volumes about the deep bond shared between the people and their beloved prince.

After the mention of Aditya's birthday festivities, Rajmata Satyavati, with a gentle smile gracing her features, addressed the gathered crowd, "Is there anything you need assistance with? If there are any preparations or arrangements that require the support of the royal family, please do not hesitate to let us know."

Her inquiry was met with a moment of thoughtful consideration from the spokesperson, who then replied with sincere gratitude, "Rajmata, we have almost completed all the arrangements for the grand celebration. We do not seek assistance, but rather, we come bearing an invitation."

The sabha listened attentively as the spokesperson extended the invitation on behalf of the people, revealing their intention to inaugurate a shiv mandir on Aditya's birthday. The news filled the sabha with joy and gratitude, as the royals expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the gesture.

As the words settled in the air, Rajmata Satyavati offered a dignified nod, her silent acknowledgment speaking volumes about her appreciation for the people's dedication.

Following her lead, Dritharashtra stood tall, his sightless eyes radiating with paternal pride as he addressed the gathered crowd. "We are deeply grateful to the people of Hastinapur," he began, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity, "for embracing Aditya as one of their own. Your unwavering devotion touches our hearts deeply."

Beside him, Gandhari exuded a sense of serene contentment, her blindfolded gaze reflecting the profound gratitude she felt towards their devoted subjects. With a gentle smile gracing her lips, she added her own heartfelt thanks, "Your love and support for Aditya are truly cherished. We are blessed to have such loyal and caring subjects."

As the last of the people departed, leaving only the royals of Hastinapur and Kulguru Kripacharya in the sabha, Rajmata Satyavati turned to Bhishma with a solemn expression. "It is time for Dritharashtra to be coronated as king," she declared, her voice carrying the weight of authority.

Bhishma nodded in agreement, his gaze thoughtful as he considered the implications of such a decision. "Indeed, the time has come," he concurred. "But we must decide when and how to proceed."

Kulguru Kripacharya, ever wise and discerning, offered his counsel. "Why not perform the rajya Abhishek, the coronation ceremony, on the same day as Aditya's birthday?" he suggested. "It will be a momentous occasion, a celebration of both Aditya and the future of our kingdom."

Bhishma considered the suggestion, finding merit in its simplicity and symbolism. "A fitting proposal," he agreed. "And while we are on the subject of succession, let us also appoint Pandu as Yuvraj and Vidur as Mahamantri of Hastinapur. Each prince will have his own role to play in the governance and prosperity of our kingdom."

With the decisions made, the atmosphere in the sabha shifted, anticipation mingling with a sense of responsibility. Dritharashtra, upon hearing the news of his impending coronation, felt a swell of pride and determination. Despite his blindness, he vowed to serve his kingdom with unwavering dedication and integrity, ensuring that justice prevailed under his rule. The prospect of leading his people filled him with a sense of purpose and resolve.

Beside him, Gandhari, Ambika, and Ambalika beamed with joy and pride, their hearts overflowing with happiness at the prospect of Dritharashtra's ascent to the throne. The future of Hastinapur seemed brighter than ever before, as the royal family prepared to usher in a new era of prosperity and unity.

Bhishma turned to Kulguru Kripacharya with a sense of urgency. "Kripacharya, we have only two days left until Aditya's birthday celebration. Make all the necessary preparations for the coronation," he instructed, his tone firm yet decisive.

Kulguru Kripacharya nodded in acknowledgment. "As you command, Mahamahim Bhishma. I will ensure that everything is in order for the grand occasion," he affirmed, already mentally mapping out the tasks ahead.

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Bhishma's expression softened momentarily as he glanced towards the door, his thoughts lingering on the mischief that often accompanied Aditya's presence. "I hope they did not cause any trouble, at least for one day," he mused aloud, a hint of amusement coloring his words.

"Especially Pandu and Aditya That mischievous duo always finds a way to stir up trouble," Bhishma chuckled, shaking his head. "I still remember the time they decided to play a prank on Vidur." Just the other day, they conspired to switch the sugar with salt in the royal kitchen's sugar pot, unbeknownst to the chefs.

And as fate would have it, Vidur's favorite dish was prepared with this tainted sugar!

Dritharashtra joined in the laughter, shaking his head in amusement. "Poor Vidur must have been in for quite a surprise," he commented, a fond smile gracing his features. "I can only imagine the expression on his face when he took that first bite."

Rajmata Satyavati turned her attention to Gandhari, inquiring, "And where is Aditya, Putri?"

Gandhari replied with a serene smile, "Aditya is with Pandu."

Upon hearing this, Bhishma interjected with a knowing smirk, "I am sure they are up to something again."

However, Gandhari calmly countered, "Tatshree, I don't think they are doing anything mischievous. Before coming here, I instructed Pandu to ensure Aditya has his lunch. I'm quite certain they are simply enjoying their meal together in Aditya's chamber."

Little did they know they were not just simply enjoying the meal.

Dritharashtra with a knowing smile suggested, "Let's go and see what they are up to."

With curiosity piqued, they made their way towards Aditya's chamber.

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Inside, a lively scene unfolded. A three-year-old boy adorned in princely attire, none other than Aditya, dashed around the room, with Pandu in hot pursuit.

"Putra, stop running! You'll fall, and you haven't even eaten anything yet. If Bhabhi Shree comes now, she'll get angry," Pandu cautioned between breaths.

Aditya halted and turned to face Pandu, mischievous glint in his eyes. "Chote Pitashree, Mata will not scold me," he declared with a grin.

Under his breath, Pandu muttered, "Of course, she won't scold you, but me."

"Putra, please, come and eat," Pandu urged, but Aditya only giggled and teased, "Catch me first, Chote Pitashree!"

The chase continued, with Pandu realizing that Vidur was simply watching from the sidelines. "Vidur, don't just sit there! Help me catch him," Pandu implored.

With a smirk, Vidur replied, "Bhrata, Bhabhi Shree gave you this impossible task, so you should complete it."

Desperate for assistance, Pandu pleaded, "Anuj, please help!"

Agreeing reluctantly, Vidur joined the chase, and as they searched for Aditya, they spotted him at the door.

While Pandu and Vidur were engrossed in conversation, Aditya quietly made his way to the door, opening it with a mischievous grin. Two guards stood outside, their gaze falling upon Aditya. With a playful gesture, Aditya signaled them to stay silent, and they nodded in understanding.

As Pandu and Vidur caught sight of Aditya by the door, they dashed towards him. Sensing their approach, Aditya darted outside into the corridors, laughter bubbling from him as he led them on a merry chase.

Finally reaching the garden, Pandu and Vidur spotted Aditya, peeking mischievously from behind a tree. Pandu gestured to Vidur to flank the other side, and Vidur nodded in agreement. With silent determination, they planned to catch Aditya from both sides, unaware that Aditya had already seen Vidur sneaking around. As Pandu and Vidur prepared to pounce, Aditya swiftly slipped away, leaving them grasping at thin air. In their haste, Pandu and Vidur collided with each other, tumbling to the ground in a comical heap. Aditya erupted into fits of laughter at the sight, his joyous giggles echoing through the garden.

As Vidur dusted himself off and declared he was done, Pandu pleaded, "Anuj, you promised to help. If Aditya doesn't eat, Bhabhi Shree will scold me. You know how angry she gets if Aditya skips his meals."

Vidur retorted, "I know, Bhrata, but perhaps Bhabhi Shree should scold you instead, considering it's your influence that makes Aditya so mischievous."

Their banter continued as Pandu desperately tried to enlist Vidur's assistance, but Vidur remained firm, unwilling to be swayed by his brother's pleas. "Bhrata, Tatshree only told me to see that you and Aditya don't do anything, and making sure Aditya eats is your task, so you do your task alone," he insisted, crossing his arms resolutely.

Pandu sighed in frustration, feeling the weight of impending scolding from both his elder brother and his sister-in-law. "Anuj, only you can save me from Jyeshth and Bhabhi Shree, and that little brat is doing this intentionally to get me in trouble," he lamented, casting a glance at Aditya, who was now gleefully chasing butterflies in the garden.

Vidur nodded in understanding, acknowledging the predicament his brother found himself in. "I know, and you and that little brat always pull pranks on me, like mixing salt and sugar in my food, and one time you both even threw mud, flour, water, and what not on me, drenching me from top to bottom," he recounted, a hint of exasperation creeping into his voice. "So, give me one reason why I should help you."

Pandu, with his characteristic innocence, simply replied, "I am your brother," hoping that the bond of brotherhood would be reason enough for Vidur to come to his aid.

Their argument escalated, oblivious to Aditya's amused gaze from a distance.

While chasing butterflies, Aditya's attention was suddenly diverted as he spotted his mother, Gandhari, his Pitashree Dritharastra, and his Pitamah Bhishma, accompanied by Satyavati and the two queens, Ambika and Ambalika, approaching.

With a gleeful expression, he dashed towards his father, grabbing Dritharastra's hand, and exclaimed, "Pitashree, I'm hungry!" Dritharastra immediately inquired why Aditya hadn't eaten yet.

Aditya's face fell dramatically as he explained with a hint of sadness in his voice, "Chote Pitashree is busy fighting with Kakashree, and I didn't want to disturb them." His little act of innocence and concern melted everyone's hearts, This portrayal of innocence and care was just another instance of Aditya's impeccable acting skills, captivating everyone present with his endearing performance.

Seeing the commotion, Bhishma's stern gaze fixed upon them, glaring at Pandu and Vidur as they halted their quarrel, with a gulp, they hurried to join the rest of the family.

Bhishma's voice boomed across the garden, scolding Pandu and Vidur, "You cannot even fulfill a simple task! Instead of ensuring Aditya eats, you are busy fighting!" Vidur hastily defended, "Tatshree, it's not true-" But Bhishma interrupted sharply, "So, you're telling me Aditya is lying and you both are not fighting?"

Caught off guard, Pandu stammered, "No, no, we are fighting." They exchanged a resigned glance, realizing they couldn't escape their Pitamah's wrath.

Aditya stood with Gandhari, giggling at the sight of his Pitamah scolding them.

As Bhishma scolded Pandu and Vidur for their negligence, a sudden shout from Aditya drew everyone's attention. All eyes turned towards him, witnessing the unfolding drama.

Dritharastra attempted to intervene, his concern evident in his voice as he called out, "Gandhari..." But his efforts were swiftly halted by Gandhari's firm response, "Arya, no." She was determined to address the situation herself, leaving no room for interference.

Turning back to Aditya, she continued, her voice laced with concern, "I warned you not to skip meals. It will affect your health. And running around like that, despite my instructions-what if you fall and get hurt?"

Aditya's demeanor shifted instantly, his tone contrite as he exclaimed, "Mata, I am sorry. I won't do it again." With exaggerated theatrics, he began to overact, contorting his face and writhing in pretend agony, as if the gentle hold on his ear by Gandhari was inflicting unbearable pain. His melodramatic performance elicited stifled chuckles from the onlookers, unable to contain their amusement at the comical display of Aditya's antics.

After releasing Aditya's ear, still pouting and folding his hands, Aditya turned to his mother with curiosity, asking her how she found out. Gandhari simply smiled in response, and replied, "You are my son." her maternal intuition knowing no bounds.

As Aditya stood there with his adorable pout and folded hands, the sight of him elicited laughter from everyone present there. His innocence and charm were irresistible, melting even the sternest of hearts.

Gandhari gently took Aditya's hand and said, "Come, let's eat now." Aditya, seizing the opportunity, held Gandhari's hand with one hand and Dritharashtra's hand with the other, asking, "Will you feed me, Mata?"

Gandhari, touched by Aditya's gesture, replied, "Yes, my dear. I know you wanted to eat from my hand, so you staged this whole drama." Aditya simply smiled at his mother, his heart filled with love and admiration for her understanding.

Guiding both Dritharashtra and Gandhari to his chamber, Aditya walked with them, holding their hands securely. Dritharashtra, being blind, relied on Aditya's guidance, while Gandhari, blindfolded in solidarity with her husband, followed along with trust and affection. The scene of the three of them walking together, hand in hand, filled the room with warmth and joy, a testament to the bond shared within the royal family.



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To be continued...

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I apologize for the long delay in updating this story. Many of you have reached out through messages and comments, patiently waiting for the next chapter, and for that, I am truly grateful.

I struggled with how to begin this chapter showing 3 years leap and Thank you for your patience. I finally managed to update this chapter. I hope you like it.

Until next time, happy reading!

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