Rukmini's Letter and Wedding

Rukmini, daughter of King Bhishmak of Vidarbha, was full of fine qualities. Hearing visiting saints speak of Krishna's virtues, she had in her heart already chosen Him as her husband. Krishna too had heard of her goodness. But her elder brother Rukmi disliked Krishna and arranged her marriage to Shishupal, king of Chedi.

Rukmini sent a letter to Krishna through a trusted Brahmin. It said: O most beautiful in all the worlds, I have given my heart to You alone. The day before the wedding, as is our family custom, I will go to the temple of Goddess Ambika outside the city. Come and take me from there. If You do not come, I will spend this life in penance for You.

Reading the letter, Krishna at once set out by chariot for Kundinpur, the capital of Vidarbha. Balram followed with an army. Meanwhile Rukmini was anxious: why hasn't the Brahmin returned? Just then he came, smiling, and told her Krishna had arrived.

On the wedding day Rukmini worshipped Mother Ambika and stepped out of the temple. Before everyone's eyes Krishna lifted her into His chariot and drove away. Shishupal, Jarasandh and the other kings gave chase, but Balram and the Yadava army held them back.

Rukmi had vowed not to return without defeating Krishna. Krishna defeated him and was about to kill him when Rukmini begged for her brother's life. Krishna only punished him by shaving half his head and let him go; Balram freed him from his bonds. Krishna and Rukmini were married in Dwarka with great celebration. Rukmini is regarded as a form of Lakshmi.