The Mahabharata is filled with fascinating stories, many of which remain lesser known. While Draupadi was the common wife of all five Pandavas, each of them also married other women. One Pandava even had a wife who was a Naga princess. She not only possessed mystical powers but also played a key role in saving her husband’s life. Let’s uncover her story and five secrets about her.
Who Was Ulupi?
Arjuna, the third Pandava, had 4 wives—Draupadi, Subhadra, Chitrangada, and Ulupi. Ulupi was a Naga princess, daughter of the serpent king Kauravya of the Airavata clan. She was a widow and childless. Ulupi’s husband was killed by Garuda long ago. Hence, she lived with her father. She was young and beautiful. Described in legends as half maiden and half serpent, Ulupi was well-versed in mystical powers.
It is said that Ulupi first met Arjuna at Gangadwar, where she fell in love with him and took him to the serpent kingdom. There, she asked him to marry her, and Arjuna agreed.
Why Did Arjuna Marry Ulupi?
According to the Mahabharata, Draupadi stayed with each Pandava for one year, and none of the others could enter her chambers during that time. If the rule was broken, the offender had to go into exile for a year.
Once, Arjuna’s bow and arrows were accidentally left in Draupadi’s chamber while she was with Yudhishthira. When a Brahmin needed help against evil spirits, Arjuna entered Draupadi’s chamber to retrieve his weapons, breaking the rule. As punishment, he went into exile. During this exile, he met Ulupi, who married him. Their union produced a son named Iravan.
5 Secrets About Ulupi, Arjuna’s Naga Princess Wife
Protector in Water: Ulupi blessed Arjuna with a boon that made him invincible in water.
Freed Arjuna from a Curse: After Arjuna killed Bhishma Pitamah during the Kurukshetra war, he was cursed by the Ashta Vasus. Ulupi was the one who released him from this curse.
Revived Arjuna After His Death: Arjuna was once killed by his own son, King Babruvahana of Manipur (born to Chitrangada). Ulupi brought him back to life using the Sanjeevani Manika gem.
Mother of Iravan: According to the Vishnu Purana, Ulupi and Arjuna’s son was Iravan, who is worshipped as a deity by the eunuch (Hijra) community across India.
Stayed with Arjuna Till the End: Ulupi remained with Arjuna until his final ascension to heaven, showing her unwavering devotion.
