What is the truth behind Lord Krishna’s 16108 marriages?
By Pt. Abhishek Sharma
Spiritual and social significance of Krishna’s marriages remembered on Janmashtami
Table of Contents
Janmashtami 2025 is celebrated across India with devotion and joy. This day is marked by fasting, bhajans and remembrance of Lord Krishna’s childhood pastimes. While most people recall stories of butter stealing, lifting Govardhan hill or his role in the Mahabharata, one narrative always raises curiosity. This is the story of Krishna’s 16108 marriages. It is not merely a tale of love but one deeply connected with dharma, compassion and social reform.
The rescue of 16100 princesses
A moving episode from Krishna’s life tells of the demon king Narakasura who had imprisoned 16100 princesses from various kingdoms. They were held against their will, their dignity stripped and their lives filled with suffering.
When their cries reached the heavens, Krishna along with his wife Satyabhama set out to end Narakasura’s tyranny. In a fierce battle, Krishna used his divine Sudarshan Chakra and killed the demon. Although the women were freed, social customs of the time considered them dishonoured.
To restore their dignity Krishna married each one of them. This act was not driven by desire but by compassion and the responsibility to protect dharma. It showed Krishna not only as a lover but also as a protector and reformer.
Table: Princesses rescued by Krishna from Narakasura
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Total number | 16100 |
| Condition | Imprisoned in Narakasura’s palace |
| Issue | Considered dishonoured by society |
| Resolution | Krishna married them to restore dignity |
The eight principal queens (Ashtabharya)
Apart from the rescued women Krishna also had eight principal wives known as Ashtabharya. The most renowned was Rukmini, the princess of Vidarbha, whom Krishna carried away from her swayamvar to save her from being forced to marry the arrogant Shishupala.
The eight queens are -
- Rukmini - chief queen and princess of Vidarbha
- Satyabhama - known for her beauty and courage
- Jambavati - daughter of Jambavan
- Kalindi - daughter of the Sun god
- Mitravinda - princess of Avanti
- Nagnajiti - princess of Kosala
- Bhadra - Krishna’s cousin
- Lakshmana - princess of Madra
Each marriage had a unique background involving acts of bravery, compassion or divine intervention. Together they portray Krishna as a complete personality - lover, protector and ruler.
The deeper message of this story
The 16108 marriages of Lord Krishna are not merely a number. They symbolise the restoration of women’s honour, compassion for the oppressed and the protection of dharma. On Janmashtami when this episode is remembered, the message is clear that dharma must be upheld not only in the battlefield but in every sphere of society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Krishna marry 16100 princesses?
To restore their honour as society considered them impure after their release from Narakasura’s captivity.
2. Were these marriages driven by personal desire?
No, they were based on compassion and dharma, not personal motives.
3. Who was Krishna’s chief queen?
Rukmini, the princess of Vidarbha, is regarded as his chief queen.
4. Who were the Ashtabharya?
Rukmini, Satyabhama, Jambavati, Kalindi, Mitravinda, Nagnajiti, Bhadra and Lakshmana.
5. What lesson does this story convey?
That women’s dignity is paramount and dharma must be protected at every level of life.
