Karna is appointed as the Supreme Commander of the Kauravas and distinguishes himself on the battlefield but even his great heart and courage cannot prevail against the merciless dictates of destiny. The battle draws to a close with the fall of Shalya. Bhima settles his score with Dushasana and Duryodhana. Yudhishtra gambles yet again. Even so the Pandavas win the great battle. But further loss awaits them.
Featured characters: 
Pandavas, Yudhishtra; Bhima; Arjuna; Nakula; Sahadeva.
Kauravas, Duryodhana; Dushasana; the sole survivors among Gandhari’s hundred sons.
Drona, Guru of the Kuru Princes; proud owner of Parashurama’s weapons.
Karna, son of Surya and Kunti; foster son of Adhiratha, the charioteer and Radha.
Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu; cousin and friend of the Pandavas.
Shalya, King of Madra, maternal uncle of the twins – Nakula and Sahadeva. 
Shakuni, maternal uncle of the Kauravas.
Ulooka, Shakuni’s son.
Balarama, Krishna’s brother.