I base this question on a saying of Srila Prabhupada that goes like this:
A kṣatriya is not supposed to refuse to battle or gamble when he is so invited by some rival party. Bhagavad Gita As It Is verses 37-38. In the purport.
So is this really true?
Note: I do know that Kṣatriyas should mostly ignore gambling but what if one dares them to a match then what should be his response?
In general there is no such requirement:
What do Hindu scriptures say about gambling?
But in the case of Yudhistira, he seems to have made a vow not to refuse a gambling challenge:
‘Yudhishthira said, “It seems that some of the most feared rogues have assembled there. They are sure to play with the powers of maya. However, everything is under the control of the creator. I will not refuse to play with those rogues. O Vidura! I do not wish to go and gamble on King Dhritarashtra’s command. A father always has a son’s welfare in mind. Therefore, tell me what I should do. I have no desire to gamble with Shakuni. But if the confident one challenges me in the sabha, I will never refuse, because that has been my eternal vow.”’
Shakuni gives him a chance to back out, but Yudhistrira insists on playing:
‘Shakuni said, “O Yudhishthira! The learned triumph over non-learned only through trickery. That is how the wise triumph over the stupid, but people don’t call it trickery. In approaching me for the game, if you think that I will resort to trickery, if that is your fear, then refrain from the game.” ‘Yudhishthira replied, “O king! Once challenged, I will not withdraw. That is the vow I have taken. Fate is the powerful one and we are in the power of destiny. Who in this assembly will I play with? What is the counter-stake? Let the gambling begin.”
