Chapter 1: The Promise of Rukmini

The music faded as the festival ended, leaving an air of anticipation that hung heavily over the gathering. Warriors stood alert, weapons in hand, but the absence of Vasudev left them restless. "We must follow Krishna with our army," one declared, his voice firm with resolve. "I won't find peace until we defeat the Yadav soldiers and confront Krishna."

As the crowd dispersed, the story of Rukmini's abduction began to unfold, echoing through the minds of those who listened to the tales from the Srimad Bhagavatam and Garg Samhita, penned by the wise Sage Vedavyasa.

"How did Vidarbha become so closely allied with King Shishupal of Chedi, wise sage?" a curious voice inquired. "Did King Bhishmak know Shishupal?"

"Indeed," the sage replied, nodding sagely. "The friendship between Chedi and Vidarbha is longstanding. Shishupal's father, Damghosh, and King Bhishmak held great respect for one another, forging a strong bond between the princes."

One day, Rukmi, deep in thought, approached his dear friend. "Friend," he began, concern etched on his face, "I've noticed you've been distracted lately. What's on your mind? You can tell me."

"It's nothing much," his friend replied, waving a hand dismissively. "I've been thinking about my sister Rukmini's marriage. She's the best treasure in the world, so I need to find the right match for her. I'm considering Shishupal."

"There’s no shortage of suitable kings, Rukmi," his friend reassured him. "So why worry?"

"True," Rukmi admitted, "but I need to choose wisely. I want my sister to marry someone who will honor her properly. I'm thinking about who that trustworthy person could be."

His friend leaned in, a hopeful glint in his eye. "Rukmi, you've known me since childhood. Do I have any qualities that attract you?"

Rukmi laughed, clapping his friend on the shoulder. "What are you saying, friend? I haven't seen anyone as brave and loyal as you. Your qualities are endless. But I have a request."

"What is it? Feel free to ask," his friend encouraged.

"I've admired your sister Rukmini for a long time," his friend confessed. "I haven't seen anyone as beautiful, patient, and talented as her. If I marry her, would you have any objections?"

"What wonderful news, friend!" Rukmi exclaimed, his eyes lighting up with joy. "Having you as a husband would be my sister's great fortune. There's no room for objections. I promise to give my sister Rukmini's hand to you."

Despite Rukmi's confidence, the wise teacher who sat as king of the land had not been consulted. Yet, Rukmi was certain of his father's agreement, for King Bhishmak loved his son dearly and never refused him.

"King, I have a proposal," Rukmi announced, stepping into the royal chamber with determination.

"Tell me, son, what do you want?" King Bhishmak asked, looking up from his seat.

"I have a decision about Princess Rukmini's marriage, father. If you disagree, then..." Rukmi hesitated.

"Of course, another matter," the king interjected, nodding for him to continue.

"I completely trust your decision, and there's no question of disagreement," Rukmi declared confidently. "I want Princess Rukmini to marry Shishupal. Father, do you agree? There is no better match for Rukmini than Shishupal. If you give your permission, I can quickly make all the arrangements."

"Of course, of course," King Bhishmak agreed, smiling warmly. "This is very good news. I have no objections to Shishupal. I have full faith in your judgment, my son. Besides, I had already thought of Shishupal for Rukmini a long time ago. I also promised King Dam Ghosh."

Rukmi looked surprised. "I hadn't heard about this, Your Majesty."

"When Rukmini was born," the king explained, his voice soft with reminiscence, "a voice from the sky spoke, Rukmi. I heard it. The voice said that this girl should be given to someone with four arms."

"Four arms," Rukmi repeated, puzzled.

"Yes, my son. But I didn't know who this four-armed person was. At that time, King Dam Ghosh of Chedi helped me. His son Shishupal was born with four arms and three eyes."

"I didn't know that, Father," Rukmi admitted, his eyes wide with astonishment.

"I didn't know either," King Bhishmak confessed, "until I heard this from King Dam Ghosh himself. So it didn't take long to find the four-armed person. That very day, I promised him that Rukmini would marry Shishupal."

"Then there is no obstacle," Rukmi said, relief washing over him. "Let's start the wedding preparations, Your Majesty."

"Yes, Prince. Begin the wedding preparations," the king instructed, his voice firm with authority. "And send milk to the kingdom of Chedi as soon as possible. But first, it's important to consult the council."

"As you wish, Your Majesty. It will be done," Rukmi promised, determined to fulfill the king's wishes. Yet, a question lingered in his mind. "I hadn't heard that Shishupal was born with four arms, wise sage."

The sage merely smiled, the mysteries of the past unfolding yet again in the present.

Chapter 2: The Prophecy of Shishupal

As the sage recounted the tale, his voice was gentle and full of wisdom. "Yes, King. At birth, Shishupal had four arms and three eyes. He saw himself as equal to Krishna. But after Shishupal was born, a sage made a prophecy. He said that the person who touches Shishupal, causing his extra arms and eye to fall off, would be the one to defeat him."

The king leaned forward, intrigued by the unfolding story. "And who was it that touched him, wise sage?"

"Narayan touched him," the sage confirmed, a knowing smile on his lips.

"Yes, King. Lord Krishna, in the form of Shri Hari, touched him," the sage continued. "Right in front of Shishupal's mother, Shrutashrava, his extra arms and eye fell off. Shrutashrava, being Vasudev's sister, understood everything. At that moment, she begged Krishna to spare her son's life."

The king nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "What did Lord Krishna say, master?"

"Krishna promised that he would forgive this boy's hundred mistakes," the sage replied, his eyes reflecting the compassion of the Lord.

The king pondered this for a moment, then asked, "There's one question I can't find an answer to, master. Why did Shishupal become Krishna's enemy? Why couldn't he stand Krishna?"

The sage's expression turned somber. "Shishupal always had a wicked mind. He was a person with a demonic nature. That's why he couldn't accept the Lord. But there's a deeper secret behind this, King."

"What is that secret, master? Please tell me," the king urged, eager to uncover the truth.

The sage's gaze was steady as he spoke. "At the beginning of this story, I told you about Joy and Vijay. Do you remember? Those two, cursed by Narayan, came down to Earth. Narayan promised he would come to save them... In the form of Krishna, Shishupal was actually Joy. If he died at the hands of God, he would be freed from the curse quickly. That’s why he came as an enemy."

Understanding dawned on the king, and he nodded slowly. "I understand now, Lord. Everything is clear to me. Please, now tell me about Rukmini’s marriage."

The sage continued with a sigh. "None of Rukmini’s relatives liked Shishupal. The king of Chedi, Shishupal, was criticized everywhere. So, none of Rukmini’s family agreed to the marriage. But Princess Rukmini was firm in her decision. After hearing about Rukmi’s decision, Rukmini became very sad. She seemed to have lost interest in everything."

At that moment, one of her dear friends approached her, concern etched on her face. "What’s wrong, Princess? Why do you look so down? What happened? Please tell me."

Rukmini sighed, her voice heavy with worry. "You know everything, my friend. My brother and father have decided to marry me to Shishupal. But I don’t agree with this marriage."

Her friend looked puzzled. "Shishupal is more powerful than other kings. Why do you object?"

"Shishupal is a very rude person. Besides, there’s another reason," Rukmini confessed, her eyes filled with longing.

"Another reason? What is it, Princess?" her friend asked, leaning closer.

"I love Vasudev Krishna. I have given my whole heart to him. In my heart, I have accepted him as my husband," Rukmini revealed, her cheeks flushing with emotion.

Her friend gasped softly. "Since when? Oh no! Have you told anyone about this?"

"No. Who would listen to me? My brother has already decided. His word is final. My father agrees with him. So, what can I do now?" Rukmini lamented, her voice tinged with despair.

Her friend took her hand, offering comfort. "We must find a way. Friend, if I cannot be with Krishna, I will choose another path. But I will never accept Shishupal as my husband."

"Friend, don’t even think like that. You are wise and smart. Surely, you can find a solution. Does Vasudev know how you feel?" her friend encouraged.

"How would he know, friend? He has never seen me. He probably hasn’t even heard of me. I’ve heard that if anyone seeks shelter with Vasudev, he never turns them away. Why don’t you try expressing your love to him and see if he responds?" her friend suggested, hope lighting up her eyes.

"That’s a good idea, friend. If Vasudev knows about my feelings, my painful days without him, and my unwillingness to marry Shishupal, surely he will do something. Right?" Rukmini said, her spirits lifting.

"Then why wait? Start trying now," her friend urged.

"But to let Vasudev know, I need to send a messenger. What if someone gets suspicious?" Rukmini worried, glancing around nervously.

"Why don't you send a Brahmin from the kingdom for this task? Brahmins often travel from one kingdom to another, so everyone will think it's normal. Send your message with him. What do you think, friend?" her friend proposed, her voice filled with excitement.

"That's a great idea! Yes, I'll do that. But there's no time to waste. I'll write the message right away," Rukmini decided, determination shining in her eyes.

"Wait, wait! You need to write the letter, but do you know a trustworthy Brahmin who can take it?" her friend asked, caution in her voice.

Rukmini paused, considering her options. She knew she had to choose wisely.

Chapter 3: The Messenger's Journey

Rukmini's heart raced as she weighed her options, pondering her friend's advice. She needed to be discreet, for the wrong person discovering her plan could spell disaster. Her friend leaned closer, whispering, "Think about it first. You don't want anyone to find out about this letter. There is a very kind, gentle, and trustworthy Brahmin. I know him, and I'll tell you where to find him. Bring him to me right away. If this plan works, I'll reward you greatly."

Rukmini smiled softly, her gratitude evident. "Your smile is the best reward for me," her friend assured her. "Now, let me go and make all the arrangements."

With her friend's guidance, the Brahmin was quickly located and brought to Rukmini. His mission was clear: deliver her heartfelt message to Krishna. The Brahmin set off, his heart filled with the hope of uniting the princess with her love.

Meanwhile, the city of Vidarbha was abuzz with activity. Decorations adorned every corner, from the grandest roads to the narrowest alleys. Arches, flags, and banners fluttered joyously in the breeze. Children paraded around, draped in flower garlands and dressed in their finest clothes. Each house was a sight to behold, adorned with flowers and vibrant decorations. The king, in preparation for the grand wedding, performed sacred rituals and generously bestowed gifts upon the Brahmins.

In the midst of this grandeur, Princess Rukmini was preparing for her own special day. Her friends helped her bathe and tied a sacred thread on her hand. They adorned her with bracelets, dressed her in splendid new clothes, and embellished her with precious jewelry. Soon, they would accompany her to the temple of Goddess Girija.

Curiosity sparkled in the eyes of a young student who was listening to the sage's tale. "Teacher, I'm curious to know who came with Shishupala."

The sage nodded, continuing the story. "King Damaghosha of Chedi arrived in Kundinapur with his son Shishupala. The King of Vidarbha personally welcomed them and arranged for their seating. Among the wedding party were allies like Shalva, Jarasandha, Dantavakra, and Viduratha, each accompanied by elephants, chariots, infantry, and cavalry."

"But why did the wedding party come with such a large army?" the student asked, puzzled.

"Because these kings were all against Krishna and Balarama," the sage explained. "They feared that Krishna might bring his Yadava army to disrupt the wedding and take Rukmini away."

The student listened intently, eyes wide with intrigue. "But why are you worried, wise sage?" he asked.

"Look, King," the sage replied, addressing the story's audience, "all the rival kings gathered at that wedding. Especially Jarasandha and Shishupala. They were naturally worried that Krishna might show up there somehow. Besides, Rukmini was extremely beautiful, so they suspected Krishna might want to marry her. That's why the opposing kings had their entire armies ready to stop Krishna if he attacked. But Krishna didn't know any of this."

The sage continued with a hint of mystery, "Don't forget, King. Even when Krishna is alone, he is not truly alone."

The student looked puzzled. "I don't understand what you mean, master."

"Balarama always kept an eye on everything Krishna did," the sage clarified. "As soon as Krishna set out alone to rescue Rukmini, a messenger informed Balarama that the rival kings had arrived in Vidarbha with their full armies, ready to oppose Krishna. Balarama realized this was all to stop Krishna, so a big battle was coming. Balarama then set out to protect Krishna."

The student nodded, understanding dawning upon him. "Of course, brotherly love is a strong bond, King. Even though he knew Krishna's power, Balarama was worried about his brother's safety and immediately set off for Kundinapur with a large army."

The sage paused for a moment before continuing, "But Princess Rukmini didn't know that Krishna had arrived in Kundinapur that morning. She was in the inner chambers, waiting for Krishna. As time passed, Rukmini became more restless. She hadn't heard any news about Krishna. None of her friends knew anything either. What would happen now? What would Rukmini do? The thought of Krishna not coming made the princess anxious."

Rukmini turned to her friend, her voice trembling with worry, "Neither Krishna nor the Brahmin has arrived. What happened? Is fate playing a trick on me? Is there something wrong with me that Krishna didn't accept my proposal?"

Her friend gently placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, "Calm down a bit. Lord Krishna never ignores a devotee's call."

Chapter 4: The Arrival

Rukmini paced the room, her heart heavy with worry. "But Krishna hasn't come yet, friend," she said, her voice tinged with desperation. "There's not much time left before the wedding. Will he really not come? The Brahmin hasn't returned either. I'm not even sure if he delivered my message to Krishna."

Her friend, ever the voice of reason, tried to soothe her. "Be patient, princess. Dwaraka isn't close by. I feel they will both arrive before your wedding begins. Just wait and see."

Rukmini nodded, though her heart remained anxious. She had sent a message to Krishna, detailing her plan to visit the temple of Mother Girija on the morning of the wedding. She hoped he would come and take her away before the ceremony began. But what if he didn't arrive in time?

Lost in thought, Rukmini felt tears welling up in her eyes. Just then, her friend let out an excited cry, breaking the silence.

"Princess, Princess, look! The Brahmin is coming this way. See how peaceful his face looks, almost like he's smiling. Look, look!"

Rukmini's heart leapt with hope. "Let me see, let me see!" she exclaimed. "Sukhi, hurry and go welcome him with proper respect and bring him inside."

The Brahmin approached and greeted Rukmini with a serene smile. His face radiated a calm joy that filled Rukmini with new hope, making her eyes sparkle. Her heart danced with joy as she eagerly asked, "Tell me the news."

"Brahmin, was your journey successful?"

"Yes, Princess, it was successful," the Brahmin replied with a nod. "As soon as he received your message, he didn't delay at all. He rode a swift chariot and reached Vidarbha overnight. I came with him."

"He has come? Govinda has come?" Rukmini gasped, her heart soaring.

"Yes, Princess, he has come. Vasudeva himself told me that his heart is also troubled by thoughts of you. He will not let the marriage with Shishupala happen."

Rukmini clasped her hands with gratitude. "Oh, what news you have brought me, Brahmin! May God bless you. I offer you all the wealth of this world. Friend, it's time to go to the temple. Are you all ready?"

Meanwhile, far away, Krishna and his brother Balarama were having a conversation of their own. Balarama had arrived in Vidarbha with the Yadava army, much to Krishna's surprise.

"Brother, why did you leave Daruka and come here with so many people?" Krishna asked, raising an eyebrow. "You rushed out without checking that Jarasandha, Shishupala, Dantavakra, and other enemy kings have gathered their armies here. Brother, they have come to the wedding with their troops. What does that have to do with me? And why should I be afraid? I came here because I'm interested in seeing the wedding of King Bhishmaka's daughter. King Bhishmaka respects me greatly."

Balarama shook his head, his expression serious. "This is not the time for jokes, Krishna. Jarasandha and others suspected you might come. They feared you might cause trouble and ruin the wedding, or even marry Rukmini and take her away. They have prepared for battle to prevent that."

"I understand, brother. But can destiny be stopped like this?" Krishna replied, a hint of mystery in his voice.

"Don't be mysterious, Krishna. Even if destiny can't be stopped, can our Yadava army hold back the enemy if a battle starts? And know this, I will return with you, not alone."

Krishna nodded, realizing he couldn't argue with his brother. Together, the two brothers headed towards the wedding venue.

Meanwhile, King Bhishmak, wise and deeply religious, was overjoyed when he heard that Krishna himself was eager to attend his daughter's wedding. He welcomed Krishna and Balarama with music and offerings, arranging a suitable place for them to stay.

The news of Krishna's arrival spread through Vidarbha like a gentle breeze. A crowd gathered to see him, their voices filled with admiration and awe.

"We've heard about Vasudeva's greatness for so long," they murmured, as they showered Krishna with flowers and sandalwood. "Today, seeing him with our own eyes has made our lives blessed."

Chapter 5: The Festival of Hope

As the sun cast its golden glow over Vidarbha, a gentle murmur of excitement spread among the people gathered in the bustling streets. Their eyes sparkled with admiration as they caught sight of Krishna and Balarama, whose presence seemed to illuminate the very air around them.

"Oh, you're right, brother," one villager whispered to another, his eyes wide with awe. "What a sight! What a glow! His words are like sweet nectar to our ears. We are truly blessed to be able to worship the Lord's feet."

His companion nodded eagerly, casting a glance at the entourage that accompanied the brothers. "You know, Krishna and Balarama didn't come alone. They brought a large group of Yadava soldiers with them. It feels like a royal affair. But you know what? I think our Princess Rukmini would be better matched with Vasudeva than Shishupala. I can't imagine her as anyone else's wife."

"You're right about that," the first villager agreed. "But there's still time before the wedding. Let's all pray to the Lord for a miracle, so that our princess marries Vasudeva." And so, the people of the kingdom, enchanted by their love for Krishna, engaged in hopeful discussions.

Meanwhile, within the palace, Goddess Rukmini emerged from the inner chambers, a vision of grace and determination. She was surrounded by a retinue of soldiers, friends, and Brahmin wives, each carrying offerings for the temple. Courtesans followed, their arms laden with gifts and items for worship. Together, they made their way to the temple of Mother Girija.

A wise sage, observing the scene, explained to the king, "No, no, King. Goddess Rukmini did not go to the temple alone. Along with the large group guarding her, her friends accompanied her, as well as numerous Brahmin wives carrying all the offerings. Even a large group of courtesans followed the princess, carrying various gifts and items for the worship. Goddess Rukmini went there with everyone, offered her prayers with devotion, and silently wished for Krishna."

In the temple, Rukmini knelt before the deity, her heart filled with hope. "Oh Mother Goddess," she prayed softly, "I bow to you countless times. If my heart is pure and my mind is clean, please bless me so that my wish comes true. May I have Lord Krishna as my husband today. Let no other man touch me."

With her prayers complete, Rukmini rose and, holding her dear friend's hand, stepped out of the temple.

"Friend, our festival is over, but we still haven't seen Vasudeva," she whispered, concern lacing her voice. "What will the princess do now? We have to return to the chariot. The king's soldiers are guarding everywhere. We can't just stand in one place waiting for him."

Her friend squeezed her hand reassuringly. "No, friend. We can't just stand here. Let's do something else. I'll move slowly through this crowd and keep looking for him. If I find him, great! If not, I'll search with you, at least with my eyes. And if you see him first, just give me a sign. Can you do that?"

"Yes, friend, I can. Don't worry. Let's go now."

With a nod, Rukmini began to walk slowly, her beauty shining like a beacon as she made her way towards the chariot. The kings around her were so captivated by her presence that they stood still, their weapons and helmets forgotten, their armor slipping from their grasp.

"Why, Shivar?" a curious onlooker asked. "Why were the kings like this?"

"You see," Shivar explained, "Rukmini was extremely beautiful, like a divine enchantment. Her beauty could captivate even the greatest warriors. She was very graceful and slender. Her chest was well-formed and elegant. Standing at the threshold of youth, Rukmini's whole body had the fresh beauty of a blossoming flower. Her face was framed with dark hair, her eyes were bright and lively, her smile was content, and her lips were red like roses. She moved gracefully like a swan. The kings must have seen her incredible beauty, which left them weak and powerless."

"You're right, king," another observer agreed. "Her beauty enchanted even the greatest kings and emperors. Some were so mesmerized that they fell off their horses. As they stared at her with wide eyes, Rukmini glanced at them with a gentle and playful look. Her charm spread over everyone."

And amidst this enchantment, Krishna remained hidden in the crowd, his eyes following Rukmini's every move. He knew that as she moved towards her chariot, her eyes were constantly searching for him. That's why she moved so slowly, her heart yearning for his presence.

"Teacher," a young student asked, curiosity in his voice, "why didn't Krishna show himself to her earlier?"

The teacher smiled, his eyes twinkling with understanding. "We all know that Lord Krishna loves to play his divine games, king. He plays with both his devotees and enemies. On such a special day, he wouldn't miss the chance to play with his beloved. He wouldn't let her feel even a little bit of worry or doubt. That's why he stayed hidden in the crowd, watching over Rukmini. Truly, the divine play of the Lord is everywhere."

Chapter 6: The Divine Meeting

The classroom was silent as the teacher continued his tale, his voice weaving the ancient story with a sense of wonder. The students leaned in closer, eager to hear how the divine lovers finally met.

"When Krishna realized that Rukmini could no longer hide her thoughts and feelings, and was growing anxious," the teacher began, "he decided it was time to reveal himself. Amidst the bustling crowd, Krishna appeared before her, his presence as radiant as the sun breaking through the clouds."

The students listened intently, their eyes wide with anticipation. "And how did Goddess Rukmini react when she saw him?" one of them asked, unable to contain their curiosity.

"As soon as Rukmini's eyes met Krishna's," the teacher continued with a smile, "a long sigh of relief escaped her lips. She lowered her eyes in shyness, a gentle smile playing on her face. Her hair, loose and flowing, fell over her face, and she brushed it aside with her hand. She couldn't help but steal glances at her beloved, her heart filled with respect and love for him. Krishna, too, stood there, smiling and watching her intently."

The image of this divine encounter was vivid in the students' minds, but one question lingered. "But there were thousands of people and guards around. How did Krishna get Rukmini onto the chariot, wise sage?"

The teacher nodded, acknowledging the challenge. "This is where the greatness of the Lord is shown," he explained. "As Goddess Rukmini walked slowly towards her chariot, Krishna performed an incredible feat. With a sudden leap, he soared over the heads of the crowd, moving with the speed and grace of a divine being. Before anyone could comprehend what was happening, he stood right in front of Rukmini."

The students gasped in amazement, picturing the scene unfolding before them.

"Then, in front of all their enemies," the teacher said, his voice filled with admiration, "Krishna quickly pulled Rukmini onto his chariot, which bore the flag of a cow. No one could stop him. Everything happened so swiftly that before anyone realized it, Krishna, Balarama, and the other Yadavas had already left the place."

The classroom buzzed with excitement as the students imagined the daring escape. "So, Krishna accomplished his mission right under King Jarasandha's nose?" one of them asked.

"Indeed," the teacher replied with a nod. "King Jarasandha and his allies were left helpless, fuming with anger and humiliation. The kings began arguing among themselves, their voices rising in frustration."

"Krishna escaped like a thief again, and we couldn't do anything," one of the students mimicked, capturing the indignation of the kings. "These Yadavas are all thieves, and the biggest thief is Krishna. He can't win by strength, so he tricked us and ran away."

Another student joined in, "But we were all standing there with weapons and couldn't do anything. It's like a clever fox snatched away the lion's prey, and we just watched helplessly."

The teacher chuckled softly, enjoying the students' enthusiasm. "The enemy kings were so angry that they couldn't think straight," he continued. "They chased after Krishna and the Yadava soldiers with all their might. In an instant, the peaceful field turned into a battlefield."

"Krishna, holding his famous bow in one hand, reassured Rukmini with the other," the teacher narrated, painting a picture of the divine hero ready for battle. "He was ready to fight. After taking Rukmini away, Krishna placed her on his chariot and fled from Vidarbha. Balarama protected them. At one point, instead of running away, the Yadava soldiers faced the enemies. A fierce battle began."

The students were on the edge of their seats, eager to know what happened next. "Krishna was about to defeat and kill Rukmi," the teacher said, pausing for effect, "but Rukmini begged for her brother's life, her tears falling freely. And so, the story continues."

The bell rang, signaling the end of class, but the students lingered, their minds still in the world of gods and warriors. The teacher smiled, knowing they would return for more of the timeless tales in the next lesson.