Marriage Context in Mahabharata

Questions and Answers

What was Dhrishtadyumna's concern regarding Draupadi's potential marriage?

He wished for her to marry a powerful shudra.

He hoped she would not marry someone from a lower caste. (correct)

He was worried she would marry a man unsuitable for her status. (correct)

He wanted her to marry a scholar.

What led Draupada to believe that the Pandavas had survived?

The way they discussed the Vedas.

Their physical appearance and strength. (correct)

The reliability of the brahmanas.

The nature of their mother.

How did Yudhishthira respond when the priest delivered Draupada's message?

He immediately agreed to the marriage.

He requested more details about Draupadi.

He instructed Bhima to wash his feet. (correct)

He insisted on the importance of lineage.

What was Draupada's original intention regarding Draupadi's marriage?

To marry her to the winner of a competition. Signup and view all the answers

What did Yudhishthira claim to Draupada regarding the suitors' lineage?

It was irrelevant in the case of competition. Signup and view all the answers

What physical feat did Draupada witness that made him doubt the brahmana background of the brothers?

One uprooting a tree. Signup and view all the answers

What was the reaction of Draupada when he heard the news about the brothers?

He felt hopeful but needed confirmation. Signup and view all the answers

What insight did Dhrishtadyumna have about the stories of the Pandavas' death?

He doubted their deaths due to their physical attributes. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship of Yudhishthira to Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, and Sahadeva?

They are his brothers. Signup and view all the answers

What does Yudhishthira express a desire for during the conversation?

He wants to marry Draupadi. Signup and view all the answers

How does Draupada react to Yudhishthira's proposal about marrying his daughter?

He is surprised but accepts. Signup and view all the answers

What is Draupada's view on which of the Pandavas marries his daughter?

He does not mind who marries her. Signup and view all the answers

How does Yudhishthira refer to Draupadi's future role among the Pandavas?

She will be their common wife. Signup and view all the answers

What trait does Dhritarashtra display based on Yudhishthira's comments?

He is weak and indecisive. Signup and view all the answers

What does Yudhishthira imply about his mother regarding the marriage?

She supports his decision. Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about Yudhishthira's character based on his actions?

He seeks to maintain harmony and honor. Signup and view all the answers

What was Draupada's primary objection to polyandry?

It goes against moral creeds. Signup and view all the answers

How did Yudhishthira justify the decision to marry Draupadi?

By emphasizing obedience to parents. Signup and view all the answers

What was Vyasa's initial stance on polyandry?

He found it vile but wanted to hear opinions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between Draupadi and Dhrishtadyumna?

Draupadi is Dhrishtadyumna's sister. Signup and view all the answers

Which character is known for his virtuous nature?

Yudhishthira Signup and view all the answers

What action does Yudhishthira propose regarding Draupadi's marriage?

They will each marry her individually. Signup and view all the answers

What did Draupada first ask Yudhishthira regarding his daughter?

If they would all marry Draupadi. Signup and view all the answers

Which character expresses disgust at the idea of Draupadi marrying multiple men?

Dhrishtadyumna Signup and view all the answers

Which event caused many kings to rejoice in Draupada's capital?

The marriage of Pandu's sons with Draupadi Signup and view all the answers

How did Duryodhana react to the news of the Pandavas being alive?

He felt sullen rage and anger Signup and view all the answers

What did Dhritarashtra initially assume about the marriage of Draupadi?

That Duryodhana was the one who won her Signup and view all the answers

What did Vidura inform Dhritarashtra about the true winners of Draupadi?

The Pandavas Signup and view all the answers

What did Dhritarashtra command to celebrate Duryodhana's supposed victory?

To decorate the city and create ornaments for Draupadi Signup and view all the answers

What was Vidura's response when Dhritarashtra expressed joy about the marriage?

He quietly corrected him about the true winners Signup and view all the answers

What did Duryodhana wish to do to Purochana?

Punish him for his failure Signup and view all the answers

How did Dhritarashtra feel about the news of the Pandavas' survival and marriage?

He masked his displeasure but felt chagrined Signup and view all the answers

What argument did Yudhishthira use to justify the practice of polyandry?

Obedience to one's elders is regarded as a great virtue. Signup and view all the answers

What was Draupada's initial reaction to the concept of polyandry?

He was disgusted and could not like it. Signup and view all the answers

What boon did Shiva grant to Draupadi in her previous life?

She would have five husbands. Signup and view all the answers

How did Vyasa respond to Draupada's concerns about Draupadi marrying the Pandavas?

He reassured him that it wouldn't violate any moral or social codes. Signup and view all the answers

What did Draupadi do during the marriage ceremony with the Pandavas?

She walked around the sacred fire with each Pandava. Signup and view all the answers

What was Yudhishthira's relationship with the practice of polyandry?

He defended it by citing elder's commands. Signup and view all the answers

What did Vyasa do after Draupada expressed his doubts about the marriage?

He led Draupada out of the hall to discuss privately. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements does NOT reflect Yudhishthira's reasoning?

The sages condescended to polyandry. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Context of the Marriage

Dhrishtadyumna expresses concern over the lineage of Krishna's suitor and had hoped Draupadi would marry Arjuna.
Doubts surfaced about the Pandavas' death; Dhrishtadyumna describes their physical strength and demeanor, distinguishing them from Brahmanas.
Draupadi's mother, Kunti, is characterized as regal, indicating the significance of her family background.

Draupada's Actions

Draupada sends a family priest to investigate the lineage of the potter's household, seeking confirmation about the Pandavas.
The priest conveys Draupada's intentions to Yudhishthira regarding the marriage of Draupadi, noting the kingship ties.

Yudhishthira's Reactions and Decisions

Yudhishthira asserts that the winner of the competition for Draupadi cannot be questioned about his heritage, implying fairness in the contest.
He mentions the women's multiple marriages in a family structure that shares resources and bonds.

Polygamy vs. Polyandry Debate

Draupada is unsettled by the idea of Draupadi marrying all five Pandavas, as polyandry goes against societal norms in their culture.
Yudhishthira argues that moral codes are subjective and emphasizes obedience to elder commands, citing Kunti's wish for shared marriage.
Draupada, recognizing Yudhishthira's virtue, reluctantly concedes to a discussion with his family members and Vyasa.

Vyasa's Intervention

Sage Vyasa mediates the discussion, indicating that polyandry was historically accepted, though not favored in contemporary society.
Vyasa reveals a divine boon from Shiva, stating that Draupadi requested a husband five times, legitimizing the Pandavas' claim.

Ceremony and Aftermath

The marriage ceremony proceeds with Vyasa’s officiation, solidifying the bond between Draupadi and the Pandavas despite initial repugnance from Draupada.
The news of their marriage reaches Krishna, who sends gifts, indicating strong alliances now formed.

Political Ramifications

The news of the Pandavas' survival and marriage creates unease for Duryodhana and Dhritarashtra, highlighting their rivalry.
Dhritarashtra incorrectly assumes that Duryodhana won the competition for Draupadi, showcasing his bias.
Vidura informs Dhritarashtra of the actual circumstances, emphasizing the growing strength of the Pandavas with newfound allies.

Emotional Tensions

Duryodhana's anger over events displays deep-seated rivalry and the struggle for power within the Kaurava-Pandava conflict.
Dhritarashtra’s feigned happiness contrasts with the reality of his sentiments, revealing his conflicted character and political anxiety.

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Description

Explore the complex dynamics of marriage in the Mahabharata, focusing on Draupadi's suitors and the implications of lineage. Analyze Yudhishthira's perspective on heritage and the debates surrounding polygamy versus polyandry. This quiz delves into the choices made by the key characters involved.