Story Summary
Discover the powerful tale of Krishna Saves Draupadi, a miraculous story of divine protection where Krishna provides an endless sari to save Draupadi's dignity.
In the royal court of Hastinapur, a tragic scene unfolded. The Pandava prince Yudhishthira, having lost everything in a rigged game of dice against the Kauravas, finally staked and lost his wife, Draupadi. Dragged into the assembly by her hair by the wicked Dushasana, Draupadi pleaded with the elders, including Bhishma and Dronacharya, to stop this injustice, but they sat in silence. Seizing the moment to humiliate her further, Duryodhana ordered Dushasana to strip Draupadi of her sari. As Dushasana began to pull at her garment, the Pandavas hung their heads in shame and helplessness. Realizing that no mortal power could save her, Draupadi let go of her garment, raised her hands, and cried out to Lord Krishna with absolute devotion. Krishna, hearing her plea from afar, performed a miracle. As Dushasana pulled the fabric, it became endless. Yard after yard of divine silk emerged, forming a mountain of cloth on the floor. Exhausted and defeated, Dushasana collapsed while Draupadi remained fully clothed, her dignity preserved by her divine friend.
The Moral
True strength lies in total surrender to the Divine, who protects those who have faith when all worldly help fails.
“When all doors are closed, the door to the Divine remains open to those who call with a pure heart.”
Fun Fact
In many versions of the Mahabharata, it is said that Krishna's protection was also a return for a time when Draupadi tore a piece of her sari to bandage Krishna's bleeding finger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Krishna save Draupadi?
Krishna saved Draupadi because of her total surrender and unwavering faith. When she stopped relying on her own strength and the help of others, she called to him with a pure heart, and he answered her prayer.
Who tried to humiliate Draupadi in the assembly?
Dushasana, the younger brother of Duryodhana, tried to disrobe Draupadi in front of the entire court on his brother's orders after the Pandavas lost her in a game of dice.
What is the significance of the endless sari?
The endless sari represents the 'Akshaya' or inexhaustible nature of divine grace. It symbolizes that God's protection is limitless for those who seek refuge in Him during their darkest hour.
Why didn't the Pandavas protect Draupadi?
The Pandavas were bound by the strict rules of the game of dice and their dharma as they had lost their own freedom first. They felt powerless and bound by their vow to follow Yudhishthira's lead.
What does this story teach about Dharma?
The story highlights the failure of the elders to protect Dharma (righteousness) and shows that when social and familial structures fail, divine intervention becomes the ultimate protector of truth.
Is this event a major cause of the Kurukshetra War?
Yes, the humiliation of Draupadi (Vastraharan) is considered one of the most significant turning points in the Mahabharata, making the Great War inevitable as a means to restore justice.
