Ulupi: The Naga Princess and Arjuna’s Forgotten Wife in the Mahabharata
The epic Mahabharata is filled with tales of heroism, love, and divine interventions. While most people are familiar with Draupadi and Subhadra as the wives of the legendary warrior Arjuna, few know that he actually had four wives. Among them was Ulupi, a Naga princess whose story weaves elements of romance, adventure, and mystical powers. Ulupi not only captured Arjuna’s heart but also played a pivotal role in his life, influencing key events and even saving him from death. Her son, Iravan, further adds to her legacy. Let’s dive into the fascinating tale of Ulupi, drawn from the ancient epic.
The Exile and a Fateful Encounter
Arjuna’s journey with Ulupi begins during a period of self-imposed exile. After accidentally intruding on Draupadi while she was with his elder brother Yudhishthira, Arjuna undertook a year-long pilgrimage as penance. Accompanied by Brahmins, he wandered from one sacred site to another, eventually reaching the northeastern regions of India along the banks of the Ganga River.
It was here that Ulupi, the daughter of the Naga king Kauravya, spotted him. Ruling an underwater kingdom in the Ganga, Ulupi was a half-human, half-serpent being—a Naga princess of extraordinary beauty and power. One day, as Arjuna bathed in the river, Ulupi pulled him underwater in a bold act of passion. Before he could react, she transported him to her realm and proposed marriage.
Arjuna initially refused, citing his vow of celibacy during the pilgrimage. But Ulupi was persistent. She revealed her noble lineage and argued fiercely that his celibacy applied only to Draupadi, not to others. After a heated debate, Arjuna relented, and they were wed. Their union lasted just one night, after which Arjuna continued his journey. From this brief marriage, Ulupi gave birth to their son, Iravan.
In gratitude and love, Ulupi bestowed a boon upon Arjuna: he would be invincible in water, and all aquatic creatures would obey him. This gift would prove invaluable in his future exploits.
Ulupi’s Enduring Influence and the Curse of the Vasus
Ulupi‘s role in Arjuna’s life didn’t end with their wedding. She reappears during a critical moment in the Mahabharata. After Arjuna slays Bhishma (who was the brother of the Vasus, celestial beings), the Vasus curse him: he will be killed by his own son.
Upon learning of this, Ulupi and her father Kauravya sought a remedy from the goddess Ganga. Ganga revealed that if Arjuna were ever slain, placing a sacred gem on his chest would revive him. Ulupi safeguarded this gem, knowing it might one day save her beloved.
The Battle with Babruvahana and Arjuna’s Revival
Years later, during the Ashwamedha Yagna (a horse sacrifice ritual) following the Kurukshetra war, Arjuna traveled once more to the northeastern kingdom ruled by his other son, Babruvahana (born to Chitrangada, another of Arjuna’s wives). Ulupi, ever watchful, provoked Babruvahana into challenging Arjuna to battle. The fight was fierce, and Babruvahana ultimately killed his father.
In the aftermath, Ulupi arrived with the gem. Placing it on Arjuna’s chest, she brought him back to life, fulfilling Ganga’s prophecy and lifting the Vasus’ curse. Babruvahana and Chitrangada were initially furious with Ulupi for instigating the conflict, but she explained her actions were necessary to free Arjuna from the curse. Peace was restored, and all was forgiven.
A Quiet Farewell iwth Ulupi
As the Pandavas’ story drew to a close, with them relinquishing Hastinapura to their grandson Parikshit, Ulupi chose to return to her underwater kingdom in the Ganga. Her tale fades from the epic, but her impact lingers as a testament to loyalty, cunning, and love.
Ulupi‘s story is indeed one of the most intriguing in the Mahabharata—a blend of myth and emotion that highlights the lesser-known facets of Arjuna’s life. It reminds us that behind every great hero are unsung figures whose contributions shape destiny. If you’re a fan of ancient epics, exploring Ulupi‘s narrative offers a fresh perspective on love and legacy in Indian mythology.
What other hidden gems from the Mahabharata have you discovered? Share in the comments!
Read more blogs on Least known characters of Mahabharata here..
