The Fire-Born
Draupadi-Swayamvara
The birth of Draupadi from fire. Arjuna wins her hand at the impossible archery contest, and she becomes the wife of all five Pandavas.
In disguise, the Pandavas attend the Swayamvara of Princess Draupadi. While kings fail to string the mighty bow, Arjuna succeeds. A twist of fate and a mother's command leads to Draupadi marrying all five brothers, unifying their strength.
Key Takeaways
- Destiny brings together those who are meant to be united
- Inner worth shines through any disguise
- Unity is the greatest strength of a family
Chapter 9 - The Fire-Born
Common questions and insights about this chapter
Draupadi was born from a sacrificial fire (yajna) performed by King Drupada, destined to bring about the destruction of the Kuru lineage.
Arjuna, disguised as a brahmin, won the swayamvara contest by shooting five arrows through a revolving fish's eye while looking only at its reflection in water.
When they returned home, Kunti (without looking) told them to 'share whatever alms you have brought'. To honor their mother's word, Draupadi accepted all five Pandavas as her husbands.
Chapter 9 Quiz
Progress through levels to deepen your wisdom