Srimad Bhagvata Mahapurana Book 10 Chapter 52:16-31

Book 10: Fifty-two Chapter (Latter Half)

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Srimad Bhagvata Mahapurana: Book 10: Chapter 52: Verses 16-31

Having vanquished by dint of prowess the kings ranged on the side of Sisupala (the ruler of Cedi-a rival suitor of Rukmini) the foremost of whom was Salva, Lord Sri Krsna (the Protector of cows) too, 0 jewel among the Kurus, espoused in a choice-marriage Rukmini (the princess of Vidarbha-the modern Berar), the daughter of Bhismaka (the ruler of Vidarbha) and a part manifestation of Sri (the goddess of beauty and prosperity, the principal Spouse of Lord Visnu)-(even) as Garuda (son of Tarksa, a nickname of the sage Kasyapa) carried away (the jar containing) nectar-while all people stood gazing. The king (Pariksit) said : The Lord espoused Rukmini, the daughter of Bhismaka, of lovely countenance, according to (what is known as) the Raksasa mode of marriage (so-called because it is principally in vogue among the Raksasas or ogres); so it is heard. O divine sage, I long to hear (in detail) the story of Sri Krsna of unlimited energy-how He snatched away the girl, having conquered Jarasandha (the ruler of Magadha), Salva and others. O holy Brahmana, what man who is capable of understanding and appreciating what he has heard would feel sated as a matter of fact while hearing the stories of Sri Krsna, which are not only delightful (to hear) and ever interesting but bring a great reward (to the listener) and wipe out the sins of mankind ?
Sri Suka continued : There was a great king, Bhismaka by name, (who was) the suzerain lord of Vidarbha (which is generally identified with the modern Berar). Five sons and one daughter of charming countenance were born to him. The eldest (of them) was Rukmi, Rukmaratha the next, and then followed (in order of sequence) Rukmabahu, Rukmakesa and Rukmamali. Rukmini was (the name of) their virtuous sister. Having closely heard about the comeliness, valour, excellences and affluence of Sri Krsna (the Bestower of Liberation) as being celebrated by visitors to her house, she began to look upon Him as her befitting husband. Sri Krsna too made up His mind to marry her in an appropriate manner, knowing her (from similar sources) to be an embodiment of intelligence, (auspicious) bodily characteristics, generosity, physical charm, amiability and other virtues and (therefore) a worthy consort. Rukmi (the eldest prince), who hated Sri Krsna, proposed Sisupala (the ruler of Cedi), deterring his relations (parents and brothers)-who intended to give away Rukmini (his sister) to Sri Krsna, 0 protector of men-from that course. Greatly troubled in mind to learn this and pondering (awhile), the beautiful Rukmini (the princess of Vidarbha) speedily despatched a trusted Brahmana to bring Sri Krsna (to her father's capital).
Having duly reached Dwaraka, and having been ushered (into the Lord's presence) by the porters, he beheld Sri Krsna (the most ancient Person) seated on a throne of gold. Seeing him (from a distance), Sri Krsna (a devotee of the Brahmanas, though Himself adored by all) got down from His throne and, having seated him (there), honoured him in the same way as the gods (lit.,the denizens of heaven) honoured Him (whenever He went to their abode). Approaching him, when he had taken his meal and rested (awhile), and gently kneading his feet with His hand Sri Krsna (the Goal of the righteous) coolly inquired of him (as follows):-- "I hope, 0 jewel among the foremost of Brahmanas, your religious observances, approved by the elders, are going on without much difficulty, and I hope your mind is ever complacent. When a Brahmana remains contented with whatever is obtained (without any endeavour), never swerving from his sacred duty, such contentment (alone) actually yields to him all his desired blessings.

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