Drupada Questions Yudhishthira About the Pandavas' Identity
After the swayamvara, King Drupada is left with a profound doubt. The strangers who won his daughter look and act like Brahmins, but fought like gods. He demands Yudhishthira reveal their true caste and origins before any marriage can proceed.
The king of Panchala, his radiance undimmed by his confusion, spoke to Prince Yudhishthira using the respectful form reserved for Brahmanas. He asked cheerfully, but the question was direct.
"Should we know you as Kshatriyas or Brahmanas? Are you accomplished Vaishyas, or are you born from the wombs of Shudras? Are you siddhas (perfected beings) who use their powers of maya (illusion) to roam in all directions and have come here from heaven in search of Krishna? O lord, tell us the truth, because we are in great doubt. Will our hearts not be content when our doubts have been removed? O scorcher of enemies, from your heart, tell us the truth. Among kings, truthfulness is a better adornment than sacrifices and alms. Therefore, do not say that which is untrue. After hearing your reply, I will then make arrangements for the marriage according to what is proper."
Yudhishthira's reply was meant to dispel all sorrow. "O king of Panchala, do not be disheartened. Be happy. There is no doubt that your wishes have come true. O king, we are Kshatriyas and sons of the great-souled Pandu. Know me to be the eldest of Kunti's sons. These are Bhimasena and Arjuna. Your daughter was won by these in an assemblage of kings. The twins are waiting there, where Krishna is. O bull among kings, let all sorrow be dispelled from your heart. We are Kshatriyas. Like a lotus, your daughter has been transplanted from one pond to another. O great king, this is the truth that I have told you. You are like our preceptor and our main refuge."
On hearing this, King Drupada's eyes brimmed over with joy.