Duryodhana plotted to kill the Pandavas.

Explanation:

The Mahabharata, an ancient Hindu epic, is a significant text in Sanskrit literature. It tells the story of the great Kurukshetra War between the Kauravas and the Pandavas, two branches of the Kuru dynasty. Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas, played a central role in this epic and was known for his cunning and vengeful nature.

1. Background:
Before we delve into Duryodhana's plot to kill the Pandavas, it is essential to understand the context of the story. The Pandavas were the rightful heirs to the throne of Hastinapura, but Duryodhana and his brothers, the Kauravas, usurped their kingdom and exiled them to the forest for thirteen years.

2. Jealousy and Enmity:
Duryodhana's hatred and jealousy towards the Pandavas stemmed from their superior skills, popularity, and the love they received from the people. Despite being in exile, the Pandavas gained support from various kingdoms and amassed a formidable army.

3. Karna's Involvement:
Duryodhana was not alone in his plot against the Pandavas. He had a loyal ally in Karna, who harbored a deep grudge against the Pandavas due to his own complicated past with them. Karna's animosity fueled Duryodhana's desire to eliminate the Pandavas and secure his position as the ruler.

4. Multiple Attempts:
Duryodhana made several attempts to kill the Pandavas. One such instance was the infamous "Lakshagraha" (House of Lac) conspiracy. Duryodhana, with the help of his uncle Shakuni, constructed a palace made of highly flammable lacquer and invited the Pandavas to stay there. His plan was to set the palace on fire and eliminate the Pandavas. However, the Pandavas, with the guidance of their mother Kunti, managed to escape.

5. The Battle of Kurukshetra:
Ultimately, Duryodhana's final attempt to kill the Pandavas came in the form of the great Kurukshetra War. He relied on his army, which included powerful warriors like Bhishma, Dronacharya, and Karna, to defeat the Pandavas and eliminate them once and for all. However, despite his relentless efforts, Duryodhana faced defeat at the hands of the Pandavas, primarily due to the divine intervention of Lord Krishna.

In conclusion, Duryodhana's plot to kill the Pandavas was driven by his jealousy, enmity, and desire to secure his position as the ruler. However, his attempts, including the Lakshagraha conspiracy and the Kurukshetra War, ultimately failed, leading to his own demise and the restoration of the Pandavas' rightful place in the kingdom.