Arjuna reconciles Draupadi and Subhadra in Indraprastha
Arjuna returns to Indraprastha after his exile and goes to Draupadi, who is jealous and fears being supplanted by his new wife, Subhadra. He must soothe her anger and find a way to unite his two wives in harmony.
Arjuna returned to Khandavaprastha after his twelve-year exile was complete. He paid his respects to King Yudhishthira, worshipped the brahmanas, and then went to Draupadi.
Out of love, and out of fear, Draupadi spoke to him. “O Kunti’s son, go to the daughter of the Satvatas,” she said, referring to Subhadra. “A second load always loosens the first tie, however strong.” She lamented in many ways, certain that the arrival of a new, younger wife from a powerful family would weaken her own position.
Dhananjaya pacified her at length and asked for her forgiveness. Then he went quickly to Subhadra, who was dressed in fine red silk. He did not bring her to Draupadi in that royal attire. Instead, he sent her away to dress in the garments worn by a cowherd lady — simple, humble clothes. Even in that rough attire, Subhadra looked beautiful.
Arriving at the palace, the famous and beautiful Bhadra — her eyes the colour of copper — first paid homage to Pritha, Arjuna’s mother Kunti. Then, with a face as radiant as the full moon, she quickly went and paid homage to Draupadi.
“I am your maid,” Subhadra said.
Draupadi arose. She embraced Madhava’s sister and said lovingly, “Let your husband not have a rival.” It was a blessing and a wish for peace: may you never have to share your husband with another wife.
With a happy heart, Subhadra replied, “May it be that way.”
Harmony was restored. The maharatha Pandavas were happy in their hearts. Kunti, the mother who watched over this complex household, was also extremely delighted.