Listen to the Story
This is a story of how childhood friends, Drona and Drupada, turned enemies
The Childhood Promise
Dronacharya was a master of war but grew up in poverty. As a child, he studied with a prince named Drupada, who promised him: 'When I become King, I will share half my kingdom with you.'
A Broken Promise
Years later, Dronacharya's family was suffering from poverty. Dronacharya was especially sad to see his son, Ashwatthama, going hungry. His wife, Kripi, reminded him of his friend's promise. So, he visited King Drupada to ask for a little help, even if was only a milk-giving cow. Drupada laughed at him, saying, 'Friendship is only between equals. A King cannot be friends with a beggar.' He had forgotten his childhood promise.
Dronacharya's Revenge
Humiliated, Drona went to Hastinapur and trained the Pandavas and Kauravas to be elite warriors. As his fee (Guru Dakshina), he ordered them to capture Drupada. Arjuna defeated the King and brought him to Drona in chains. Drona told him: 'I am taking half your kingdom. Now we are equals, and now we can finally be friends.' Drona used his students' success to reclaim his honor and force Drupada to keep the promise he had once mocked.
What We Learn
Never disrespect someone simply for their circumstances. Be empathetic and kind to everyone.
