This chapter of the Mahabharata [Maha: 2.1-2.12] narrates the romantic tale of Arjuna’s marriage to Subhadra, Krishna’s half-sister. This story is not only a tale of love and bravery but also highlights the customs of ancient India regarding Kshatriya marriages, friendships, and alliances.
Arjuna and Subhadra: A Divine Love
While Arjuna was on his pilgrimage in disguise, having completed the twelve-year exile after the events of the dice game, he visited the sacred city of Dwaraka, home to Krishna and the Vrishnis, in search of his true love, Subhadra. His love for her was sparked during his time as a disciple of Drona, when he had heard of Subhadra’s beauty from Gada, a member of the Vrishni clan. Now, as fate led him close to Dwaraka, Arjuna could not resist meeting her.
Disguised as a Yati (a hermit of Lord Shiva), Arjuna was recognized by Krishna, who omnisciently knew his heart’s desire. Krishna, always eager to help his friend, devised a plan to facilitate Arjuna’s union with Subhadra. Krishna revealed to Arjuna that Subhadra’s brother Balarama had plans to marry her off to Duryodhana, a Kaurava and Balarama’s favored ally. Yet, Krishna supported Arjuna and advised him to abduct Subhadra, a common and accepted practice in Kshatriya tradition. This form of marriage, known as Rakshasa Vivaha (marriage by abduction), was permissible for warriors.
The Meeting of Arjuna and Subhadra:
Arjuna, under the guidance of Krishna, was introduced to Subhadra as a hermit staying in her garden. Subhadra, having grown up hearing tales of Arjuna’s valor, was naturally curious to learn more about him. As Arjuna narrated his adventures, omitting his own identity at first, Subhadra became increasingly drawn to him. She pressed him for information about the heroic Pandava warrior, Arjuna. This led Arjuna, albeit reluctantly, to praise his own deeds and virtues, further deepening Subhadra’s admiration for him.
In time, Subhadra confessed her love for Arjuna, and he revealed his true identity, much to her astonishment and joy. Their mutual love blossomed, and they decided to marry with Krishna’s blessing. However, they were aware of the obstacles posed by Balarama’s wishes to marry her to Duryodhana.
The Elopement:
Following Krishna’s advice, Arjuna abducted Subhadra as she went to worship Lord Rudra. Balarama, furious upon learning of the abduction, intended to wage war against the Pandavas. However, Krishna intervened, calming Balarama and explaining that Arjuna’s actions were in line with Kshatriya customs and that Subhadra had willingly eloped with Arjuna. Krishna’s reasoning eventually pacified Balarama, who then consented to the marriage.
Subhadra and Draupadi: Harmonizing Relationships
One of the most delicate aspects of this tale is Arjuna’s concern for how his first wife, Draupadi, would react to his marriage to Subhadra. Arjuna, aware of Draupadi’s strong-willed and temperamental nature, devised a plan. He asked Subhadra to approach Draupadi dressed as a simple milkmaid. Subhadra, with her charm and modesty, won Draupadi’s affection, easing the potential tension between the two women. Draupadi, though initially surprised, ultimately gave her blessings to the marriage, showcasing the delicate handling of relationships in the Pandava household.
The Marriage:
After obtaining the blessings of both Krishna and Draupadi, the marriage of Arjuna and Subhadra was celebrated with great joy. Balarama, though initially enraged, became reconciled to the match, bringing with him vast wealth as a dowry for his sister. The grand union between the Pandavas and the Vrishnis further solidified their alliance, with Krishna playing a crucial role as a friend, brother, and mediator.
This chapter serves as an important bridge between the personal relationships of the Pandavas and their alliances with powerful houses like the Vrishnis, setting the stage for their eventual rise to power and the complex dynamics that would unfold in the larger epic. The marriage of Arjuna and Subhadra exemplifies the themes of duty, love, and diplomacy, intertwined with the broader narrative of Mahabharata.