Shatadhanva

Character Overview

Shatadhanva appears in the Puranic accounts connected to the story of the Syamantaka jewel. He is remembered as a violent, covetous figure who valued treasure above dharma. Rather than uphold the law and the duties of a kshatriya, he chose theft and murder to obtain a famed gem. The scriptures present him as an antagonist whose actions set in motion a crisis that required Krishna's direct intervention.

Relationship with Krishna

Shatadhanva does not have a close or devotional relationship with Krishna. Instead, he is an opponent in the narrative of righteousness. His crime—killing Satrajit to gain the Syamantaka—provoked Krishna to act to restore justice and propriety. Krishna's pursuit and eventual killing of Shatadhanva is part of the larger restoration of order around the jewel's story. Through Krishna's response, the community learns the costs of greed and the protection Krishna provides to dharma.

Notable Conversations and Incidents

The texts recount several connected incidents in which Shatadhanva plays a dark role: the theft of the Syamantaka and the murder of its owner, Satrajit. Earlier events in the Syamantaka tale include suspicion being cast on Krishna when the jewel first went missing and Krishna vindicating himself by finding and returning the jewel. Later, when Satrajit was slain by Shatadhanva for the gem, Krishna pursued the murderer, fought him, and recovered the jewel for the rightful lineage. These incidents are treated in the sources as moments when accusation, greed, and retribution intersected, and when Krishna both defended his honor and enforced justice.

Interesting Facts and Nuances

• The story of Shatadhanva is woven into the fuller Syamantaka narrative, which also involves Prasena, Jambavan, and Satrajit. Shatadhanva's role is limited but pivotal: his crime escalates the tale from loss and suspicion to murder and recovery.
• His name carries martial connotations in Sanskrit traditions; commentators note that such names often mark a character as a warrior or man of arms. Beyond this, little personal detail is preserved in the major sources—his motive is recorded simply as greed for the jewel.
• Though an antagonist, Shatadhanva's presence in the story functions as a moral foil: his actions highlight the dangerous power of covetousness and the need for divine and social correction.

Legacy and Lessons

Shatadhanva's legacy in the Krishna tradition is cautionary. He is remembered not for noble deeds but for how unchecked desire led to violence and downfall. The decisive response by Krishna emphasizes that transgression against life and dharma draws divine attention and will be corrected. Devotionally, the episode is used to teach restraint, respect for others' property and life, and trust in Krishna as the upholder of righteousness.