One day while the Pandavas were in exile, Bhima went in search of food for all of them. Looking around in the forest, he saw a cave and entered it.

A massive python was sitting near the entrance of the cave. When it saw Bhima, it attacked him and coiled itself round his body. Bhima was helpless and struggled hard to free himself from the python's grip but his attempts to save himself seemed ineffective. Finally, he got tired and gave up. Then he asked the python, "Who are you and why have you entangled me like this for no reason? I have not caused you any harm." The python replied, "I am your ancestor. In my previous birth I had insulted a sage and was cursed to become a python. Now, I will eat you if you don't answer my questions correctly."

Meanwhile, back at their hit, the rest the Pandavas began to worry since Bhima had not returned and it was getting dark. Since Bhima was very strong and powerful, they had never imagined that any harm could come to him.

Anxious, they went out to search for him. On the way, they saw many dead animals and their anxiety grew. Finally, when they reached the mouth of the cave, they saw Bhima struggling to free himself from the python's grip.

Yudhisthira, who was known to be very wise answered all the questions of the python correctly and freed Bhima from his clutches. Not only this, the Python was also freed from his curse and he thanked the Pandavas and ascended to heaven. The pandavas returned home safely.