Upon hearing of the grief that had befallen the sons of Gandhari, the entire royal family and their kin gathered in sorrow. Dhritarashtra, their patriarch, addressed them with solemn words. In the presence of Vasudeva and all the assembled Kurus, he acknowledged that the Pandavas had attained a consecration—a rare honor, difficult to achieve for those who have not mastered themselves. He then urged Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, to go forth, for his duties had been fulfilled. Like the legendary kings Pururavas, Nahusha, and Yayati, his lifespan had reached its destined end. Dhritarashtra spoke of Khandava, the ancient capital of the mighty-armed descendants of Puru, once renowned for its glory. Though long ago destroyed by sages who coveted the son of Budha, the city and kingdom of Khandavaprastha now awaited revival. Dhritarashtra instructed Yudhishthira to restore its prosperity. He described the city as auspicious, honored by Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, each devoted to their own duties, along with other beings who revered the place. The city and kingdom were flourishing, filled with wealth and grain. Thus, Dhritarashtra urged the Pandavas, led by Yudhishthira, to go there with their brothers, for they were sinless and worthy. Obedient to Dhritarashtra’s command, the Pandavas bowed respectfully and prepared for their journey. With chariots, elephants, horses, and foot soldiers, they set out as a grand procession. Their departure was accompanied by the sounds of musical instruments adorning their chariots, and the citizens, moved by devotion, followed them. As the Pandavas left together, the people of Nagapura observed and discussed among themselves whether they should accompany the Pandavas. Meanwhile, Dhritarashtra’s son, Duryodhana, together with Saubala, made proclamations in the city. Nevertheless, the Pandavas, guided by Krishna, continued on their way. Upon reaching their destination, they adorned the city, which appeared as if it had descended from heaven. Vasudeva, the Lord of the world, began to contemplate Indra, the king of the gods. Responding to Vasudeva’s meditation, Indra commanded Vishvakarman, the divine architect, to construct a magnificent city. This city would be known on earth as Indraprastha, a divine abode. At Indra’s command, Vishvakarman approached Keshava (Krishna), bowed to him, and asked what he should do. Vasudeva instructed Vishvakarman to build a great city for the king of the Kurus, modeled after Indra’s own celestial city, and named Indraprastha. In that sacred and auspicious place, the great chariot-warriors performed rites of peace and uttered auspicious words, declaring, “Let it be Indraprastha.” Led by the sage Dvaipayana (Vyasa), they oversaw the construction of the city, and Vishvakarman began his work. The city emerged, adorned with moats as vast as the ocean and encircled by strong ramparts, appearing as if it enveloped the heavens. Its radiance resembled pale clouds and the rays of the winter sun, shining like Bhogavati, the city of serpents. Splendid gates and turrets rose, resembling the wings of Garuda and elephants, guarded by lofty gateways like clusters of clouds and as grand as Mount Mandara. Various well-armed warriors protected the city, equipped with weapons and surrounded by forces fierce as serpents with two tongues. The guards’ couches were arranged, and the city gleamed, adorned with sharp goads, engines of war, and intricate mechanical devices. Great iron wheels and broad avenues were laid, and the city was free from disturbances by supernatural beings. Indraprastha was radiant with splendid white mansions, appearing like the celestial city of the gods. The royal residence shone like a cluster of clouds pierced and surrounded by lightning. Filled with wealth, it resembled the abode of the lord of treasures. The foremost of the twice-born, masters of all the Vedas, came to reside there. Those skilled in all languages and merchants seeking fortune arrived from all directions. Experts in every art flocked to the city, which was surrounded by delightful gardens. Mango, amrataka, nipa, ashoka, champaka, punnaga, nagapushpa, lakucha, and jackfruit trees flourished, along with shala, tala, tamala, bakula, saketaka, and other charming trees heavy with flowers and fruit. Ancient amalaka, lodhra, ankola trees bloomed, as did jambu, patala, kubjaka, and atimuktaka. Karavira, parijata, and countless other trees bore flowers and fruits year-round, filled with flocks of birds. The city resounded with intoxicated peacocks and delighted cuckoos, while houses gleamed like mirrors and vine-covered dwellings added charm. Enchanting painted houses, artificial hills and valleys, and ponds filled with pure water adorned the city. Delightful lakes fragrant with lotuses and water-lilies, inhabited by swans, cranes, and chakravaka ducks, completed the picture. Lotus ponds surrounded by forests and large reservoirs were seen everywhere. The river Nandinī embraced the city, which teemed with people of all four classes and was crowded with artisans. Always frequented by the virtuous, constructed by Vishvakarman, Indraprastha was filled with abundant enjoyments and all kinds of wealth. Noble people constantly inhabited it, and it was thronged with groups of men and women, as well as horses, elephants, cows, camels, asses, and goats. Thus, Indraprastha stood as a glorious city, radiant and prosperous, the new home of the Pandavas and a marvel upon the earth.