The shocking death of Kichaka raises alarm in Hastinapura. Duryodhana suspects that only someone as mighty as Bhima could have slain the powerful commander. He discusses his doubts with Karna, Dushasana, and Shakuni. Sensing an opportunity, it is Shakuni who devises a cunning plan—to attack the cattle of the Matsya kingdom from two directions. This would not only provoke the kingdom but also force the hidden Pandavas to reveal themselves.

As the Kauravas launch their attack, panic spreads in Matsya. In a bold display of youthful pride, Prince Uttara boasts that he will singlehandedly defeat mighty warriors like Bhishma, Drona, and Karna. But the moment he reaches the battlefield and sees the real might of the Kaurava army, his courage falters—and he turns to flee. What follows is a turning point that will reveal much more than Uttara expects.

In this gripping episode of Mareyalagada Mahabharata, the Pandavas, now in disguise, have quietly settled in the Matsya kingdom for their final year of exile. As they adjust to their hidden roles, danger brews in the royal court. Kichaka, the arrogant and powerful commander-in-chief, returns from a victorious war and is instantly infatuated by Draupadi’s beauty. When his obsession turns threatening, Draupadi turns to Bhima for help. What follows is a dramatic night where Bhima, disguised in a saree, lures Kichaka into his own weapon chamber—only to unleash his fury and end the tyrant’s reign of terror.

In this episode, the Pandavas prepare to enter the final phase of their exile—Ajñatavāsa, the year of incognito living. With their 12 years in the forest completed, they now face the challenge of blending into ordinary life while remaining hidden from their enemies.

They change their appearance, assume new names andidentities and carefully plan how to stay in touch without revealing themselves. Guided by the wise priest Dhaumya, they learn how to adapt their royal bearing to the role of humble servants—a life they have never known.

With their divine weapons safely hidden and theirstrategy in place, the Pandavas set out for the Matsya kingdom, where their next chapter begins.