KRSNA READS THE LETTER FROM RUKMINĪ

Rukmini, the young daughter of Bhismaka, King of Vidarbha, had heard of Sri Krsna's beauty, strength and other fine qualities, and she therefore made up her mind that He would be the perfect husband for her. Lord Krsna also wanted to marry her. But although Rukmini's other relatives approved of her marriage to Krsna, her brother Rukmi was envious of the Lord and thus forbade her to marry Him. Rukmi wanted her to marry Sisupala instead. Rukmini unhappily took up her duties in preparation for the marriage, but she also sent a trustworthy brahmana to Krsna with a letter.

When the brahmana arrived in Dväraka, Sri Krsna properly honored him with ritual worship and other tokens of reverence. The Lord then asked the brahmana why he had come. The brahmana opened Rukmini's letter and showed it to Lord Krsna, who had the messenger read it to Him. Rukmini-devi wrote, "Ever since I have heard about You, my Lord, I have become completely attracted to you. Without fail please come before my marriage to Sisupala and take me away. In accordance with family custom, on the day before my marriage I will visit the temple of goddess Ambika. That would be the best opportunity for You to appear and easily kidnap me. If You do not show me this favor, I will give up my life by fasting and observing severe vows. Then perhaps in my next life I will be able to obtain You."