Story Summary
Witness the legendary Draupadi's Swayamvara from the Mahabharata. See how Arjuna's archery skills won a princess's hand and changed the fate of the Kuru dynasty.
King Drupada of Panchala organized a grand swayamvara for his daughter, Draupadi, born of fire. The challenge was nearly impossible: a suitor had to lift a massive celestial bow, string it, and shoot five arrows through the eye of a rotating wooden fish high above, looking only at its reflection in a pool of water below. Mighty kings and princes from across Bharatvarsha failed, humiliated by the bow's weight. When Karna stepped forward, Draupadi famously refused him due to his perceived lineage. Just as hope seemed lost, a young Brahmin stepped from the crowd. It was Arjuna, disguised during the Pandavas' exile. With divine focus, he lifted the bow, drew the string, and pierced the fish's eye in one fluid motion. Though the royalty protested a Brahmin winning a princess, Krishna intervened, recognizing the divine destiny at play. Draupadi garlanded Arjuna, and the Pandavas returned to their mother, Kunti. Misunderstanding their arrival with 'alms,' Kunti commanded them to share whatever they had brought, leading to Draupadi becoming the wife of all five brothers.
The Moral
True merit and focused concentration are superior to inherited status or sheer physical strength.
“He who sees only the target, and nothing else, shall achieve the impossible.”
Fun Fact
Draupadi is known as 'Yajnaseni' because she was not born from a womb, but emerged as a full-grown woman from a sacred fire-sacrifice (Yajna).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Draupadi's Swayamvara?
The story teaches that skill, discipline, and concentration (Ekagrata) are the true measures of a person's worth. It also shows that destiny unfolds in mysterious ways, often defying social expectations.
What was the challenge in the Swayamvara?
Suitors had to string a heavy divine bow and shoot five arrows through the eye of a revolving fish. The catch was that they could only look at the fish's reflection in a bowl of water.
Why was Arjuna in disguise during the event?
The Pandavas were living in hiding after the attempt on their lives at the Palace of Lac. They attended the Swayamvara disguised as poor Brahmins to avoid detection by the Kauravas.
Who was the only suitor besides Arjuna capable of the feat?
Karna was traditionally considered capable of winning the challenge. However, in many versions, he was either disqualified by Draupadi or failed by a hair's breadth depending on the regional retelling.
How did Draupadi end up with five husbands?
When the Pandavas returned home, they told their mother Kunti they had brought a great prize. Without looking, she told them to share it equally among themselves, and her word was considered law.
What was Krishna's role in the Swayamvara?
Krishna was a guest who recognized the Pandavas despite their disguises. He ensured the proceedings remained fair and helped calm the angry kings after Arjuna won.
