Shashirekha

Shashirekha is a prominent female character in the Hindu epic Mahabharata, primarily known for her pivotal role in the Abhimanyu wedding narrative. She is the daughter of King Vrishaparva and the niece of Lord Krishna. Her lineage connects her to significant royal families, making her a desirable bride.

The story of Shashirekha's marriage to Abhimanyu, the son of Arjuna and Subhadra, is a significant sub-plot. Initially, Shashirekha was betrothed to Lakshmana Kumara, the son of Duryodhana. However, during the Swayamvara, a ceremony where a bride chooses her husband from a gathering of suitors, Shashirekha chose Abhimanyu. This act of defiance angered Duryodhana, who attempted to force the marriage to his son.

With the intervention of Lord Krishna and other Pandava allies, Abhimanyu was able to marry Shashirekha. This union further solidified the alliance between the Pandavas and the Yadava clan. Shashirekha is depicted as a devoted wife and mother. She later gave birth to Parikshit, who became the sole survivor of the Kurukshetra War and the subsequent ruler of the Kuru kingdom. Her story highlights themes of love, destiny, and the challenges faced by women in ancient Indian society.