Right from the day the Pandavas , entered Hastinapur, the Kauravas, especially Duryodhana, disliked them intensely. He was also extremely jealous of the Pandavas for they had earned the love and respect of the entire kingdom. By some means or the other, he wanted to kill the Pandavas, especially Bhima. But Duryodhana was fully aware that it would not be possible to kill Bhima through a wrestling match or with the mace. So Duryodhana had a sinister plot in mind.
One day, Duryodhana invited the Pandavas for a holiday by the riverside. Pandavas were unaware of Duryodhana’s devious plan. Thinking about all the enjoyment, they readily agreed. And what a lot of fun it was! Horse-riding;, boating, camp fire etc. On the ultimate day, Duryodhana had arranged for a royal feast. Bhima, who was a glutton, could not resist the many mouth-watering delicacies and sweet dishes. Happily, he ate and ate but did not know that a deadly poison had been mixed with his food.
In the night, when the others were fast asleep, the Kauravas tied the hands and legs of Bhima and threw him into the river.
The next morning Yudhistira found Bhima missing from his bed. Presuming that he had loitered away, the other Pandavas returned to the palace along with Kauravas.
Bhima, who had sunk to the bottom of the river had lost consciousness, but was not dead. Seeing his inert body on the river bed, the king of Nagalok treated him against the poison. The king knew of Duryodhana’s evil intentions .and hence warned Bhima to be careful about Duryodhana and his brothers. Bhima, on recovering his strength and power, thanked the residents of Nagalok for their hospitality and returned to Hastinapur.
Dharmaraj, Kunthi and the other Pandavas who were immensely worried about Bhima’s strange disappearance were very happy to see him hack. Duryodhana was baffled that Bhima had survived such a strong poison.
Certain about Duryodhana’s hatred and jealousy, Bhima warned his brothers and mother about the danger posed by the Kauravas.
This incident made Duryodhana all the more determined to kill the Pandavas as he knew that they were the rightful heirs to the throne of Hastinapur..
It was under these circumstances that Duryodhana met Karna.
