With heavy hearts, the Pandavas took leave of their mothers, respectfully circumambulating them before setting out for Varanavata, accompanied by their followers. Vidura, wise and compassionate, along with other distinguished Kurus and the citizens of Hastinapura, followed these tiger-like men, their spirits weighed down by sorrow at the departure. As they journeyed, some fearless Brahmins, seeing the Pandava princes so distressed, spoke among themselves. They lamented that King Dhritarashtra, blinded by poor judgment, acted unjustly, failing to see the path of righteousness. They affirmed that the pure-hearted Pandavas would never choose evil, nor would Bhima, the strongest among men, nor Arjuna, son of Kunti. Much less, they said, would the noble sons of Madri act unrighteously. They concluded that Dhritarashtra could not bear the thought of the Pandavas inheriting the kingdom from their father. The Brahmins wondered how Bhishma, revered for his wisdom, could approve such an utterly unrighteous act—supporting the expulsion of those who rightfully belonged in the city. They recalled how Shantanu, Vichitravirya, and Pandu had been like fathers to them, and now that Pandu had attained a divine state, Dhritarashtra was unable to tolerate his young nephews. Filled with grief, the citizens declared their intention to leave their homes and follow wherever Yudhishthira went. Hearing their sorrowful words, King Yudhishthira, thoughtful and wise, addressed them. He reminded them that their father, the king, was to be honored as the highest teacher, and whatever he commanded must be done without hesitation, for such was their vow. He asked the citizens, his friends, to circumambulate them in respect and return to their homes, blessing the Pandavas. He assured them that, when the time came and help was needed, they would be called upon to do what was dear and beneficial. Thus, the citizens, after circumambulating and blessing the Pandavas, returned to the city. When they had departed, Vidura, the knower of dharma, approached Yudhishthira to offer counsel. He spoke of the wisdom of acting according to the science of polity, understanding another’s mind to overcome adversity. Vidura used metaphors: one who knows of a sharp iron weapon meant to harm, but also knows how to counter it, will not be slain by enemies; one who escapes the destroyer of hollows, the destroyer of cold, and avoids being burned, survives. He advised that the eye does not know the path nor the directions; without resolve, one does not attain prosperity. Vidura spoke of taking up a weapon of iron given by strangers, reaching a dog’s shelter to escape a blazing fire, and learning paths by traveling them, finding directions by the stars, and restraining the senses to avoid being overcome. Yudhishthira listened carefully and replied to Vidura, saying, "It is understood." Vidura, having instructed and circumambulated them, granted permission and departed for his own home. When Vidura, Bhishma, and the townspeople had withdrawn, Kunti approached Yudhishthira and asked about the conversation with Vidura. She said that although Yudhishthira had responded, "So be it," she did not know what had been discussed and wished to hear it if it was not improper. Yudhishthira explained that Vidura had warned him about the fire of poison, advised learning the paths by the stars and directions, and suggested making unknown walls while maintaining purity. Vidura had also said that one who conquers his senses would obtain the earth. Yudhishthira had assured Vidura that he understood all these instructions. On the eighth day under the Rohini star in the month of Phalguna, the Pandavas departed. Upon reaching Varanavata, they encountered the townspeople. The city officials of Varanavata, adorned with auspicious signs, attended to them diligently according to the scriptures. News of the Pandavas’ arrival spread, and thousands of people came in various vehicles, approaching with great joy. The people of Varanavata, having met the sons of Kunti, offered blessings for victory, surrounding them and standing nearby. Amidst this gathering, King Yudhishthira, tiger among men, shone like a god among the immortals, like Vajrapani. Honored by the townspeople and honoring them in return, the Pandavas entered Varanavata, which was adorned and crowded. Having entered the city, the heroes went quickly to their homes, as did the Brahmanas, kings, and others devoted to their duties. The best of charioteers visited the homes of city officials, as well as the houses of Vaishyas and Shudras. Honored by the people, the Pandavas proceeded to their residence, led by Purochana. He provided them with food, drink, fine beds, and excellent seats. Honored with costly furnishings and served by the residents of the city, the Pandavas remained there, settled in Varanavata.