The Mahabharata is not merely a saga of grand battles. It is also the incredible story of individuals who lived in such a manner that they transformed the world. Almost all the protagonists have legendary personalities in this epic, but two women — Draupadi and Kunti — stand as symbols of grace and sacrifice.

For Krishna, protecting Dharma almost became synonymous with saving these two heroic women. It was because of the challenges they faced for their adherence to virtues and responsibilities. Notably, the life of Draupadi exemplifies the most important lesson: true spirituality is found in selfless service and compassion, the pillars of Dharma.

Draupadi: The Victim Who Became a Victor

Draupadi’s life needs no introduction. Her marriage to five Pandavas, the humiliating disrobing in the Kaurava court, and the tragic loss of all her children were only a few of the many hardships she faced. Yet, if we read between the lines, Draupadi’s only response to every adversity in her life was resilience, which sprouted from her compassionate heart.

When her dignity was stripped in the court of Hastinapur, Draupadi did not scream for war the way television series and movies often portray her. As I read in one of the epic versions, her words to Yudhishthira are inspiring (paraphrased) —

No matter what happens, we are Kshatriyas (soldiers). It is our duty to protect our land and punish the wrongdoers. Yes, this is a cursed life for us, but we can’t waver from our duty of being a Kshatriya. So, we have no choice but to battle.

Draupadi cried in anguish, as would every woman in her situation. Still, despite extreme suffering, she stayed focused on her duties as a wife, mother, and queen. This is why Veda Vyasa referred to her as Sri Devi — a manifestation of Divine Energy. She became a victor not because of her successful husbands but because of her unwavering commitment to selfless service and compassion.

Kunti: A Widowed Queen Who Braved Odds

Kunti’s greatness is seen in her endless sacrifices to raise her children in a world replete with hostility and danger. As a widowed ex-queen, she experienced numerous threats. To begin with, widowed women were often left vulnerable in ancient times. In this, Kunti had to safeguard not just her own dignity but also protect the potential heirs of Hastinapura.

In such a complex situation of political dangers, she fought against all odds to ensure her sons — the Pandavas — grew into the heroic figures they became. Despite her own suffering, Kunti instilled in her children the strength of character and fortitude.

Above all, Kunti’s connection with the divine was her source of strength. She was so devoted to Krishna that she famously remarked (paraphrased) —

Please keep giving me adversities, my Krishna, so I never forget you.

The One Major Difference

While I’m not fond of comparing people, even ancient ones, I must deviate here to highlight a point. Although both were extraordinary women, Kunti and Draupadi had one major difference in their approaches to life. This eventually defined their roles in the Mahabharata narrative.

Kunti’s attachment to her family became a limiting factor that clouded her judgments, preventing her adherence to Dharma. One such instance was her hiding Karna’s birth to protect her family’s honor, which, in turn, contributed to the devastating war that unfolded. Further, her willingness to manipulate situations—such as trying to use Draupadi as political bait to lure Karna before the war—also arose from her attachment.

Unlike Kunti, whose eyes were centered on her family, Draupadi’s vision extended to the community. Her life was shaped by her commitment to Dharma and a broader sense of justice. Even after the war that took away her children, Draupadi continued to serve society and uplift many. This made her the beacon of selflessness and compassion.

Selfless Service and Compassion

Nothing beats selfless service and compassion to reach unmeasurable spiritual heights. True spirituality is not defined by renunciation — that’s just a small part of it. A strong sense of service to others and the ability to feel and behave compassionately make all the difference.

Let me emphasize this, though: selflessness and compassion don’t imply sacrificing one’s well-being or preferences. Instead, they are about transcending personal attachments and desires for a higher cause. In fact, this is why most Hindu texts state the end goal of spirituality as striving for the “liberation of all” rather than just “liberation for self or the family.”

Therefore, as we navigate our lives, let us draw inspiration from the spiritual insight of the Mahabharata. I implore each of you to cultivate compassion and selfless service, not just as ideals but as a routine action item in our daily lives. That’s because, ultimately, true greatness is found in serving and caring for those around us.

Love,
Sri Devi Om