Satyabhama

Satyabhama is a queen of the Hindu god Krishna and one of his eight principal wives, known as one of the Ashtabharya in Vaishnava literature. In traditional accounts she is described as the daughter of Satrajit, a king of the Yadava line, and as a consort in Krishna’s city of Dvārakā. In some traditions she is regarded as an incarnation or manifestation of Bhudevi, the Earth goddess, linking her to earth and fertility.

Satyabhama is often portrayed as beautiful and strong-willed, sometimes reputed for pride or jealousy, but generally depicted as a devoted wife to Krishna. Her narratives appear across various Puranas and devotional texts, where she participates in Krishna’s adventures, governance of Dvārakā, and episodes surrounding the couple’s life.

One of the most well-known legends involving Satyabhama concerns the Syamantaka jewel, a precious gem gifted by the sun to Satrajit. After the jewel goes missing and Krishna is accused of theft, Krishna ultimately clears his name and restores the jewel, reinforcing the bond between him and Satyabhama in the telling of the myth. Different texts present her in a range of roles, from a capable companion in Krishna’s exploits to a symbol of steadfast devotion.

In art and temple iconography, Satyabhama is commonly depicted alongside Krishna in regal attire, sometimes shown with motifs related to wealth or the Syamantaka jewel. Her character appears in regional literary traditions and devotional songs that form part of the broader Bhakti tradition surrounding Krishna.