Can Abhimanyu and Uttara Marry When Uttara Was Arjuna’s Disciple?

In the epic Mahabharata, the marriage of Abhimanyu and Uttara raises questions around tradition and the guru-sishya relationship. This article explores whether the marriage of Arjuna’s disciple, Uttara, to his son, Abhimanyu, adheres to the norms of this ancient Indian tradition.

The Guru-Sishya Relationship in Mahabharata

The relationship between a guru (teacher) and sishya (disciple) in ancient Indian culture was a sacred and deeply personal bond. This relationship often extended beyond mere teaching and learning, encompassing ethical, moral, and spiritual guidance.

The Case of Uttara

Uttara, a character in the Mahabharata, was the secretary of King Virata. During the 13-year hiding period, when the Pandavas lived incognito, Arjuna was asked by Virata to teach Uttara dancing and singing. Arjuna took on the role of teacher to Uttara, both to entertain and to provide her with a skill that could protect the Kaurava surveillance.

Context and Roles of Arjuna

Arjuna's relationship with Uttara was multifaceted. He was:

A preceptor who assumed a role of a teacher for her A servant to provide her with entertainment and personal care A friend who developed a close personal relationship with her

In the region of Virata, Arjuna was not only a preceptor but also a servant to Uttara, thus fulfilling duties that included:

Providing security by entertaining the royal family through songs and dances Housekeeping duties that included taking care of the princess's needs Supporting her welfare and ensuring her happiness

Let us examine the dialogues in detail to understand his role better:

“As Dwelling in your inner quarters I always observed your daughter. Whether in private or in public she always trusted me as her father. I was loved by her and respected because of my skills in dancing and singing. Your daughter has always thought of me as her teacher. O king!”

This passage from the Mahabharata demonstrates Arjuna's close relationship with both the princess and her parents. The term “father” in this context is likely used metaphorically, indicating his role as a protector and caregiver, rather than a literal familial relationship.

Understanding the Marriage Proposal

When Arjuna came out of his disguise, he approached the king of Virata and proposed Uttara as his daughter-in-law to Abhimanyu. This proposal is justified based on the bond of trust and respect he had established with Uttara over the years. Arjuna's primary motivation was:

To maintain the spiritual and ethical relationship he had established with Uttara To ensure Uttara's safety and happiness

Here is the text from the Mahabharata explaining this:

“O scorcher of enemies! I am terrified of curses and false accusations. O king! That is the reason I will accept your daughter Uttara as my daughter-in-law. O lord of the earth! My mighty-armed son Abhimanyu is Vasudeva’s nephew. He is just like a child of the gods. He is learned in all weapons and is loved by the one who wields the chakra. He is the right son-in-law for you and a husband for your daughter.”

Exception to Traditional Norms

The Mahabharata often presents stories that break traditional norms for greater emotional and ethical depth. Arjuna's response underscores the flexibility of these norms based on the specific circumstances and values of a specific scenario:

Rethinking Tradition:

While typically, a sishya should not marry a guru's son, the Mahabharata offers a nuanced view of what constitutes propriety. Arjuna's actions show that the context, trust, and principles of a relationship are more important than adhering to rigid traditions.

Modern Interpretation

In contemporary society, this scenario challenges traditional norms by highlighting the importance of personal and ethical relationships over rigid rules. The characters in the Mahabharata often blur traditional lines, advocating for compassionate and pragmatic solutions:

1. Vaishampayana's Story: This passage from the Mahabharata shows Arjuna's loyalty and friendship, which guided his decisions:

“On seeing his friend the large-eyed princess he35 smiled and asked her why she had come. Approaching that bull among men in the midst of her friends the princess affectionately spoke these words.”

This story, where Arjuna supports his friend's request, demonstrates the flexibility and humanism in traditional values.

Conclusion:

The marriage of Abhimanyu to Uttara, while unusual, is a reflection of the complex social and ethical relationships in the Mahabharata. It underscores the importance of personal trust and values over rigid traditional norms. Arjuna’s actions in this situation provide a compelling narrative of compassion, loyalty, and ethical living.