Rukmini Krishna Betrothal

The auspicious ‘Rukmini Kalyanam’ or Rukmini’s Betrothal depicted in the painting is preceded by a dramatic set of events. The daughter of king Bhishmaka, Rukmini was a princess of alluring beauty, who went on to become the first consort queen of Krishna. Also known as Vaidarbhi, as she belonged to the Vidarbha kingdom, Rukmini was a sister to five brothers. Her elder brother Rukmi sought a powerful political alliance through her marriage with Shishupala, the prince of Chedi. Rukmini, who had long given her heart to Krishna, sent a message to Krishna detailing the events of treachery behind her marriage. On the morning of the swayamvara (a regal practice of choosing a fitting suitor for princesses), Rukmini made a getaway with Lord Krishna on a customary visit to the temple of goddess Katyayani. Upon reaching Dwarka, Rukmini was welcomed by Devaki and the others, and a grand wedding ceremony was held.