Q.- Discuss the structure of the assembly hall in Indraprastha.
Ans : The Assembly Hall (Sabha) of Indraprastha, built under Yudhishthira’s rule, is one of the most magnificent creations described in the Mahabharata. It was designed by the divine architect Maya, after Arjuna saved him from the fire of Khandava forest. This hall became the pride of the Pandavas and the centre of political, cultural, and social life in Indraprastha.
1. Divine Architecture by Maya : The Sabha was not an ordinary human construction. Maya, who possessed supernatural skills in architecture, built it with rare materials collected from heaven and the underworld. The hall reflected both grandeur and mystery—it was filled with illusions that could confuse even the wisest visitors.
2. Splendor and Grandeur : The hall was vast and decorated with shining crystal walls, polished marble floors, and golden pillars. The ceilings sparkled like the sky full of stars. There were artificial ponds, lotus flowers, and flowing water channels inside the hall, making it appear like a heavenly palace. The beauty of this Sabha was said to rival Indra’s celestial court itself.
3. Symbol of Prosperity and Power : The Assembly Hall was more than just a palace; it was a symbol of the Pandavas’ growing power. After the Rajasuya sacrifice, kings from across the land came to this Sabha to pay tribute to Yudhishthira. The hall represented the Pandavas’ strength, unity, and their right to rule as emperors.
4. Place of Political and Cultural Activity : In this hall, great discussions on politics, dharma, justice, and alliances were held. Learned sages, respected elders, and powerful rulers gathered here. It was not only a place for governance but also a centre of art, culture, and wisdom.
5. Source of Envy and Conflict : Ironically, the same hall became the seed of jealousy. When Duryodhana visited Indraprastha and saw the hall, he was filled with envy. The illusions of water and land tricked him, and when he fell, Draupadi laughed. This insult burned Duryodhana’s heart with hatred, which later led to the game of dice and ultimately the war of Kurukshetra.
Conclusion : Thus, the Assembly Hall of Indraprastha was not just a structure of beauty; it was a stage where friendship, power, jealousy, and tragedy all played out. It symbolized the glory of the Pandavas but also became the cause of their downfall, showing that even grandeur cannot escape the cycle of fate.
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