The Boons of Arjuna in Hindu Mythology

Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers in Hindu mythology, is revered not only for his valor but also for the numerous boons he received from various deities. These boons played a significant role in his journey and the broader narrative of the Mahabharata. This article explores the origins, types, and significance of the boons bestowed upon Arjuna by Lord Indra, Ulupi, and Lord Shiva.

Boon from Indra

After Arjuna's distinguished valor during the Khandava Dahan, which was a significant event where he helped vanquish the demon king of the Khandava forest, Lord Indra, the lord of the celestials, acknowledged Arjuna and granted him and his companion Krishna an array of boons. (Bori Critical Edition Adi Parva ch 224)

"When prasannabhagavāmahādeva bhavi?yati (when Indra gets pleased), I shall give you all my astra (weapons)."
— Lord Indra

True to his word, Lord Indra bestowed upon Arjuna all his powerful astras once he obtained the grace of Lord Shiva through rigorous austerities. (CCXXXIX Adi Parva)

Boon from Ulupi

Ulupi, the devotee and wife of the Sheshnaga (the serpent king), a devotee of the Pandavas, gave Arjuna a profound boon when she parted ways with him. She offered him invincibility in water, stating, "Every amphibious creature shall be vanquishable by thee." (CCXVI Adi Parva)

Boon of Mahadev

Lord Shiva, a fascinating and complex deity, granted several boons to Arjuna. One of the most significant was the Pashupatastra. In the Kairata Parva, Bhava (Lord Shiva) articulated the incredible potency of this weapon:

"O powerful one, I will give to thee that favourite weapon of mine called the Pashupata. O son of Pandu, thou art capable of holding, hurling, and withdrawing it. Neither the chief himself of the gods nor Yama nor the king of the Yakshas nor Varuna nor Vayu knoweth it. How could men know anything of it?"

"And the god also granted him the terrible Pashupata weapon and the accomplishment of his vow." (XL Kairata Parva)

Additionally, during the Kailash visit led by Krishna and Arjuna following Abhimanyu's death, Lord Shiva blessed Arjuna on the 13th night, empowering him just in time to kill Jayadratha by sunset. (LXXXI Drona Parva)

Conclusion

Arjuna's boons reflect the spiritual and divine support he received throughout his life. These stories emanate from the Mahabharata, symbolizing the power of valor, devotion, and the strength that lies in alliances with divine beings. As a prominent character in Hindu literature, Arjuna's boons continue to be celebrated and studied, reminding us of the divine interventions and the blessings that fortify heroes in their quest for dharma and justice.

References

Bori Critical Edition Adi Parva ch 224

CCXXXIX Adi Parva

CCXVI Adi Parva

XL Kairata Parva

LXXXI Drona Parva