Subhadra Subhadrā is an important character in the Mahābhārata. She is the half-sister of Krishna, wife of Arjuna, and mother of Abhimanyu. She is the daughter of Vasudeva and his second wife Rohini Devi. She is much younger to Krishna and Balarama since she was born after Vasudeva was released from Kamsas prison. When Subhadra came of age Balarama wanted his sister to marry Dhuryodhana his favorite pupil. But because of Duryodhanas reputation of being notorious, the family and most of all Subhadra resented this idea. But in spite of all that Balarama goes ahead and sends Duryodhana a message with a proposal. Arjuna had heard of Subhadra and wanted to make her his wife. He was wandering in guise and was on a pilgrimage since his breach of Vyasa’s marital laws. Krishna intervenes when Arjuna asks for help. He stays in his disguise near Subhadra’s palace. Subhadra serves him with utmost reverence. When at last Arjuna reveals himself, Subhabra was already in love with him, as she had heard of his valor. Krishna suggests that Arjuna abducts her as it would be impossible to convince Balarama. While returning from the temple Arjuna abducts her. As per Krishna advice Subhadra takes the reins of the chariot into her hands so that Balarama would think that that she abducted Arjuna. Balarama wrath was very high but Krishna pacified him and him and tells him that Subhadra and Arjuna really loved each other. Finally he concents to their marriage and celebrates it with pomp at Indraprastha Subhadra is one of the three deities worshipped at the Jagannath temple at Puri, along with her brothers Krishna (as Jagannatha) and Balarama (or Balabhadra). One of the chariots in the annual Ratha Yatra is dedicated to her.
Posted on: Mon, 28 Jul 2014 21:23:15 +0000