What kind of feeling Bhima had for Draupadi: Love, not Obsession

Bhima, the mighty Bhima of the Mahabharata, had a profound and unwavering affection for his wife, Draupadi. This love was not one of obsession or possessiveness, but rather a deep-seated emotion that drove him to protect her with his very life.

Nature of Bhima's Love

Bhima's love for Draupadi was evident in his actions and choices. He believed in expressing his feelings in different ways, ensuring that his love was pure and true. For instance, when it came to making the garland for Draupadi, Bhima was the first to be chosen. This choice was not mere subservience or an act of servitude, but a manifestation of his deep love and dedication to her.

When you have the option to choose from many people, and they still choose you to perform a task with such care and devotion, it clearly indicates a strong bond of love. Additionally, Bhima's actions, such as guarding the Pandavas during their stay in Lakshagraha and the Gurukul, further emphasize his protective nature and his unshakable love for his family.

From guarding his brothers from Purochana to taking care of the Pandavas during their time in the Gurukul, Bhima's actions underscore his sense of duty and protection. His nickname, 'Kulantaka' (the destroyer of Kurukshetra), originates from his many heroic deeds, including fighting Kichaka and even Jayadratha during their forest exile. These exploits reveal his deep and pure love for Draupadi and the Pandavas.

Back to the Basics

One must not gloss over the essential aspects of Bhima's love for Draupadi. The rumors and speculations that suggest he merely used her for his own physical strength are unfounded. His vow to kill Dushyasana and to smear Draupadi's hair with his blood, while a symbol of his pledge to protect her, also indicates his love and commitment to her.

During their exile in the forest, Bhima's actions, such as fighting Jayadratha and killing Kichaka, were driven by his love for Draupadi and his desire to protect her from harm. This is evident in the Draupadi Swayamvara event, where Bhima swiftly protected Arjuna.

These actions reflect his genuine love rather than any form of possession. Bhima's love is a testament to his character and his unwavering devotion to his family.

Why Duryodhana Failed

The story of Duryodhana's failed attempt to create enmity among the Pandavas by disrupting their unity is a clear reminder of the strength of their bond. Duryodhana's conspiracy was to use Draupadi as a tool to divide the Pandavas. However, his attempt miserably failed because the Pandavas were united by mutual love and respect.

Draupadi played a crucial role in maintaining this unity, and it was her love and loyalty that unified her with the Pandavas. The deceit of Duryodhana could not sever the bonds of love that the Pandavas shared.

Modern Misconceptions

Five thousand years later, some claim that Bhima's actions are driven by a sense of power and physical prowess rather than love. This is a gross misinterpretation of the story. Bhima's actions, such as his pledge to kill Dushyasana and his valiant fight with Jayadratha, were expressions of his devotion and love for his family.

Arjuna fans, in general, do not have any malice toward Bhima. They see him as a strong support to the Pandavas, always striving for the common goal. Bhima and Arjuna worked in harmony, complementing each other for the betterment of their family and the larger cause.

Conclusion

Braving the test of time, the love and affection between Bhima and Draupadi remain a timeless tale of true devotion. Let us revisit the stories and revere their genuine connections, beyond misconceptions and speculations. Join us in celebrating the true essence of their relationship and learn from their love.

Further Reading and Resources

For more information about the Mahabharata, I recommend the following resources:

Kisari Mohan Ganguli's English translation Bibek Debroy's translation of the Bori critical edition Neelkanth Edition Sanskrit-Hindi version of Gita Press Rajgopalachari's Mahabharata

Join the Mahabharata Project to participate in a community dedicated to demythifying the epic and sharing its true context.

Hare Krishna!