Section LXXI - Virata offers his kingdom to Pandavas; Arjuna accepts Uttara as daughter-in-law

| Posted in: Hinduism Itihasa

Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LXXI including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.

Short summary of the chapter:
The story begins with Virata expressing his curiosity about the identities of Yudhisthira, Arjuna, Bhima, Nakula, Sahadeva, and Draupadi, whom he had not seen since their defeat at dice. Arjuna reveals their true identities and recounts their heroic deeds to Virata, impressing him with their prowess. Uttara also identifies the Pandavas and praises their beauty and skills in warfare. Virata then offers his kingdom to Yudhishthira and proposes a marriage alliance between Arjuna and his daughter Uttara as a gesture of reconciliation and respect.

Virata acknowledges the Pandavas' achievements in rescuing him and recovering his stolen cattle, expressing his gratitude and seeking forgiveness for any past offenses. He wholeheartedly embraces the Pandavas and offers them his kingdom, treasures, and loyalty. Virata is overjoyed to see the Pandavas safe and expresses his admiration for their resilience during their period of exile. He insists on giving everything he has to the Pandavas and suggests that Arjuna marry his daughter Uttara, solidifying their alliance.

Yudhishthira looks at Arjuna, who accepts the proposal to marry Uttara and cement the alliance between the Matsya and the Bharatas. Arjuna's acceptance of Uttara as his daughter-in-law is seen as a significant step towards uniting the two kingdoms. The marriage alliance signifies mutual respect and goodwill between the Pandavas and the people of Virata's kingdom. The story ends on a positive note, with the Pandavas and the Matsyas coming together in harmony and unity.

Full English translation:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section LXXI - Virata offers his kingdom to Pandavas; Arjuna accepts Uttara as daughter-in-law, have a look at the following articles:

Section LXXI, online text

English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.

Read this and other chapters online.

Mahabharata (English Summary)

by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933

Buy the latest edition:

FAQ of Mahabharata, Section LXXI:

Who was recognized by Virata as the Pandavas and Draupadi in the story?

Virata recognized Yudhishthira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, Sahadeva, and Draupadi.

What was the relationship between the Virata kingdom and the Pandavas?

Virata offered his kingdom, sceptre, treasury, and even his daughter to the Pandavas.

Why did Virata express gratitude and alliance towards the Pandavas?

He was rescued by Bhima and his kine were recovered by Arjuna.

Daily life: Virata offers his kingdom to Pandavas; Arjuna accepts Uttara as daughter-in-law:

In the story shared from the epic Mahabharata, we witness a tale of recognition, gratitude, and alliance formation. The narrative illustrates how the Pandavas, despite being in disguise, aid King Virata and his kingdom, leading to profound appreciation and rewards from the king. This story exemplifies the virtues of humility, bravery, and the importance of aiding others in their time of need, irrespective of our personal struggles or situations. By helping King Virata without expecting anything in return, the Pandavas ultimately gain an ally and respect.

Translating this into our daily lives, the story encourages us to assist others without the anticipation of immediate rewards. It shows that actions born out of genuine goodwill and effort can lead to unforeseen benefits, such as forming valuable relationships and earning respect from those around us. The narrative also highlights how recognizing and appreciating the contributions of others, as King Virata did, is crucial in fostering positive relations and community spirit.

By embodying these values in our everyday interactions, we can create a supportive environment where mutual respect and appreciation flourish. Whether it's in our personal relationships, within our communities, or at the workplace, the principles of assistance, recognition of efforts, and building alliances can lead to collective success and fulfillment.

Help me to continue this site

For over a decade I have been trying to fill this site with wisdom, truth and spirituality. What you see is only a tiny fraction of what can be. Now I humbly request you to help me make more time for providing more unbiased truth, wisdom and knowledge.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: