Draupadi's Unflinching Faith,Surrender and Devotion to Krishna

Draupadi’s most exceptional quality was that Shri Krishna considered her his sakhi (friend) and sister. Krishna cut his finger while beheading Shishupal, Draupadi immediately tore off a piece of her sari and bandaged his cut. Krishna said that with this loving act, she wrapped him in debt and he would repay each “thread” when the time arrives. Indeed, whenever Draupadi needed Krishna’s protection she fervently prayed for his help, he came to the rescue and gave her unlimited cloth. This is one of the stories of the origin of the Raksha Bandhan festival.

Draupadi is an exemplification of bhakti, and she experienced God’s divine presence constantly in her life. When she questioned Krishna about everything that had happened to her, he reassured her: “Soon wilt thou, O Draupadi, behold the ladies of Bharata's race weep as thou dost. Even they, O timid one, will weep like thee, their kinsmen and friends being slain. They with whom, O lady, thou art angry, have their kinsmen and warriors already slain. With Bhima and Arjuna and the twins, at Yudhishthira's command, and agreeably to fate, and what hath been ordained by the Ordainer, I will accomplish all this. Their hour having arrived, the sons of Dhritarashtra, if they do not listen to my words, will surely lie down on the earth turned as morsels of dogs and jackals. The mountains of Himavat might shift their site, the Earth herself might spilt into a hundred fragments, the firmament itself with its myriads of stars might fall down, still my words can never be futile. Stop thy tears, I swear to thee, O Draupadi, soon wilt thou see thy husbands, with their enemies slain, and with prosperity crowning them." Her bhakti was unwavering, unflinching, exceptional, pure, divine and true. She was most dear to Lord Sri Krishna and earned his affection, kindness and mercy. When Lord Krishna was prepared to return to His abode (Vaikuntha), He said, "Alas! I could not repay the debt of Draupadi for the word Govinda (when she uttered Govinda at the time of vastraharan). I am going without repaying it!"

source link :    #‎Anindita‬

I feel the need to share this story before my upcoming post about why Draupadi is such an inspiration to me.