Draupadi

CHAPTER VII

The handmaiden meticulously fastened my breast cloth, ensuring a perfect fit, while delicately draping the pleated saree across it. Adorned in opulent red and gold silks, accompanied by extravagant jewelry, I exuded regality and beauty. My eyes were accentuated with the allure of kohl, and a deep red bindi graced my visage with perfect symmetry. The lustrous strands of my knee-length hair were elegantly braided in a timeless fashion, with jasmine flowers adorning the intricate masterpiece. A dhrishti bindi was thoughtfully placed behind my neck, adding an air of mystique. Heavy anklets adorned my feet, their melodious chimes echoing with each graceful step, while a waist band accentuated the curves of my hips. Gazing at my reflection one last time before venturing out, I placed my hand in Dhri's, ready to embark on this grand occasion. Standing beside him, Krishna's astonished gasp caught my attention, and I cast a stern glare in his direction. However, my eyes betrayed a different inquiry - would Arjun be present? Krishna confirmed my hopes, but I could sense that he was silently conveying that destiny would unfold as written. With Dhri leading the way, I embarked on my grand entrance, eager to embrace the future that awaited me

With regal grace, I made my entrance into the grand hall. Dhri strode ahead of me, his expression tight and impassive. As I held my head high, I observed the many princes and men who appeared as aged as my father. The Kaurava princes exuded arrogance as they conversed with their companion Karna. Upon bowing to my father, I took my seat at the designated spot. A smile from Krishna greeted me. Dhri proceeded to outline the rules of the svayamvar. The task was to strike the eye of the fish spinning above, using the provided bow while seeing its reflection in the pool below. My father and brother exuded confidence in Arjun's victory, especially after witnessing the failure of other princes and kings. However, Krishna seemed doubtful. In a hushed tone, he mentioned to me that Karna also stood a chance of winning. I dismissed the thought. Arjun was meant to emerge victorious, not Karna. When Karna declared his intention to compete on behalf of his friend Duryodhana, who lacked skill with the bow, he was reprimanded. Yet, he then expressed his desire to win me over. Fear gripped me at the possibility of his success, and I fervently prayed to the gods for intervention. Nervously playing with a strand of my hair, I watched as the arrow slipped from Karna's grasp. Relief washed over me, and Dhri let out a sigh. 

My esteemed father, in his infinite wisdom, had now graciously announced that the revered brahmins may partake in this momentous occasion. As the anticipation grew, a figure emerged from the crowd, exuding an aura of strength and confidence. With his muscular physique, thick beard, and flowing locks, he commanded attention effortlessly. It was evident that his self-assurance was well-placed, for he emerged triumphant in the face of adversity. Although I was unaware of his identity, the mischievous grin on Krishna's face hinted at the possibility that he could be none other than Arjun. As I delicately placed the weighty garland around his neck, our eyes met, and in that instant, I recognized the captivating copper hue that mirrored his smile. It was that heart-stopping, boyish grin that I could recognize anywhere.
Now, the kings seethed with fury, their anger reaching its boiling point. Accusations were hurled at my father, claiming that he had orchestrated this svayamvar to mock and humiliate them. Dhri's grip tightened around his sword, and Shikhandhi stood ready, prepared to defend our honor. They were poised to strike, but Arjun skillfully brushed off their attacks and stood by my side.  Krishna called for peace, urging the others to offer their well-wishes or, at the very least, maintain a respectful silence. Arjun then humbly requested permission to introduce me to his beloved mother and brothers before returning for our sacred union. This journey was the first journey that would undoubtedly alter the course of my life forever.

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