Not so in the Puranas. Although they do point out that even great men now
and again fell into error and committed wrong, the presentation is such as to warn the
reader and not to allure him into evil ways.
This is the striking difference between our epics and the modem
talkies, which arises from the difference in the character of the people who produced
them. "You are the same unto us both. I must mean as much to you as the Pandavas. You
must agree to come to my aid," said Duryodhana.
Salya answered: "Be it so." Flattered by Duryodhana's
splendid reception, Salya deserted the Pandavas who were entitled to his love and esteem
and pledged his word to fight on Duryodhana's side which shows what dangers may lurk in
receiving the hospitality of kings.
Feeling that it would not be right to go back without meeting
Yudhishthira, Salya then turned to Duryodhana saying:"Duryodhana, believe me. I have
given you my word of honour. I must however meet Yudhishthira and tell him what I have
done."
