The Closest Bond: Subhadra's Best Friend in the Mahabharata

Subhadra, a prominent character from the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata, is often remembered for her relationship with Arjuna, her husband. However, the Mahabharata offers insights into a different kind of bond, one that exists between close female companions. This article explores the depth and significance of Subhadra's relationship with Draupadi, who is often considered her best friend in the epic.

Subhadra's Early Life and Family

Like many characters in the Mahabharata, Subhadra's story begins in the city of Dwaraka. Raised under the affectionate care of her mothers and sisters-in-law, Rukmini and Satyabhama, Subhadra's upbringing was marked by love and protection. Her relationship with her mothers and future sister-in-law, Satyabhama, was particularly close. The Southern Recension of the Mahabharata provides details about her early life, narrating that Subhadra was cherished by her mothers and was protected within the Yadava clan.

According to the Southern Recension, Devaki, Vasudeva's wife, also had a special affection for Subhadra, even though she was not her biological mother. This is evident from the verse:

Subhadra, the beloved daughter of Vasudeva and Devaki, was raised in the affectionate care of Rukmini and Satyabhama.

Friends and Companions

During her early years, Subhadra was brought up with her future co-wives, the unmarried girls of Indraprastha. These companions formed a close and supportive group. They celebrated life's milestones together, such as when Subhadra was entrusted with Arjuna's care:

Friendship and support were constant in Subhadra’s life. When she was to leave for Indraprastha, her friends and maids wished her well, saying she would find a husband like Arjuna:

"Friend of Vasudeva, with Arjuna, the noble prince, you have become homeless. In all your maids, you, good as you are, are the best for Krishna's sister."

These verses highlight the strong support and camaraderie among Subhadra's early companions.

Life at Indraprastha

Upon marriage to Arjuna, Subhadra joined the Pandavas at Indraprastha. The epic Mahabharata does not delve into many of the personal lives of the Pandavas and their wives, but it is clear that Subhadra and Draupadi maintained respectful and cordial relationships throughout their lives. While they were not close friends in the sense that Arjuna and Subhadra were, there was mutual respect and affection.

Subhadra's role in the lives of the Pandavas extended beyond household duties. After their period of exile, when the Pandavas were away, Subhadra took care of the younger members of the family, the Upa Pandavas. This sense of familial duty and care is a significant aspect of her character.

Comparative Friendship with Draupadi

While Subhadra's and Draupadi's relationship was not as intimate as that with Arjuna, it was more personal than the bonds of co-wives. Draupadi was often present during Krishna's private moments with Arjuna, suggesting a comfort level with the siblings. However, this did not extend to Subhadra in the same way:

“Consider, O S-clear-voiced one, the best of Yadus, ever adored by Vasudeva, Subhadra; for that among all men Arjuna is the foremost beloved to Krishna.”

This verse from the Southern Recension emphasizes the special bond between Subhadra and Arjuna over the bond with Draupadi.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Subhadra had many friends and companions in her early life, the most significant bond for her was with her cousin Draupadi. This relationship, while not as intimate as her relationship with Arjuna, was marked by mutual respect and affection within the family dynamic. The Mahabharata provides rich insights into the complex relationships between characters, highlighting the unique bond between Subhadra and Draupadi as her best friend.