When Karna stepped forward, many believed that he could complete the challenge, and just then, Draupadi rose from her seat.
Draupadi, in a firm and unwavering voice, declared that she would not marry a Suta, the son of a charioteer. Her words echoed throughout the hall, and the entire assembly fell silent.
Karna, holding the bow froze and smiled, his smile filled with wounded pride, before slowly looking towards the sun and stepping away from the bow.
Duryodhana, angered and insulted, clenched his fists because his closest friend and ally was humiliated in front of everyone.
But before Duryodhana could speak, Karna raised his hand slightly and silently returned to his seat with dignity. King Drupada looked at the entire assembly with growing concern.
Amidst the growing tension in the hall, Krishna watched silently with a gentle smile, upon his eyes fixed upon a group of the warriors disguised among the Brahmanas.
Just then, from among the gathered Brahmanas, one stood up.