The Great Debate

Siccaka was the acclaimed wise man of Vesali City. Well versed in ancient lore, he was revered by many, and was proud of his vast knowledge. And he was a master of the ruling Licchavi princes.
One fine morning Siccaka was strolling along the road to the court of the Licchavis. The weather was fine but he was in a bad mood. Rumours were afloat that people all over county were flocking to hear the sermons of a certain person whom people reverently called the Buddha. Siccaka was annoyed and decided to nip his rival's influence in the bud.

The Licchavis were in session. Siccaka barged into the meeting room and announced that he was going to Buddha Gotama to hold a debate. The princes were keen on such a debate, the great event of the year; so they broke session and followed Siccaka to Mahawun Forest where the Buddha was sojourning. Vesali citizens heard of the debate and swarmed into the forest.