Chapter 52(b) - Balarāma marries Revatī

[Note: To be read after verse 15 of chapter 52 (original). It appears to be an elaboration of supra 9.27-36.]

King Parīkṣit said:

1. O great sage! I wish to hear from you in details who was the king named Revata and how he was instructed by god Brahmā (to give his daughter in marriage to Balarāma).

Śrī Śuka replied:

2. Formerly (in the Kṛta Age), there was a king called Revata. He was expert in the essentials of dharma and artha. A glorious daughter was born to him whom he named Revatī.

3. He went to god Brahmā to consult him to whom he should give his daughter, as she was sought after by kings of various countries even though he did not propose her to anybody.

4. At that time in the assembly-hall of god Brahmā, two Gandharvas, Hāhā and Hūhū, were singing. They were experts in all the subtle excellent points in evolving music (such as presentation of the gamut in proper pitch and according to measured beats.

5. The king waited outside for some time expecting some interval in the musical concert. When it was concluded, he paid his respects to god Brahmā and sought his advice.

6. “O glorious Lord! This is my daughter. To whom I should give her in marriage?” To him the lotus-born god Brahmā asked, “What prince you like most?

7. Name to me all other rulers of the earth as well, O scion of the Kuru race!” Thereupon Revata enumerated to him the names of kings who were ruling over various countries.

8. Hearing the names of those kings, Brahmā laughed aloud and spoke to Revata, “O king; Many yugas have elapsed since you came here,

9. While you were listening to the musical performance of these Gandharvas (which you are not eligible to hear) for a moment. Where are those kings whom you regard suitable for your daughter, O king?

10. By this time, O tiger among kings, there are born two lords of the world in the house of Vasudeva. Those two descendants of the Yadu race are called Balarāma and Kṛṣṇa.

11. O king! Give your daughter in marriage to Balarāma out of them.” When he was thus advised, the king paid obeisance to him and returned to his city.

12. He gave his beautiful daughter to Balarāma of mighty arms. But being born in the first (Kṛta) Age, she was of a big stature. Balarāma of powerful arms laid his plough on her shoulder and pulling her down made her of his equal stature.