Subhadra, radiant in her beauty, chose Jishnu—Arjuna—above all others. She, graced with charm and youth, was a perfect match for Partha, and he, in turn, matched her in form and noble qualities. At this harmonious union, the delighted gods, led by Indra, expressed their joy. After the celestial beings, Gandharvas, and hosts of Apsaras had been honored, the Yadavas prepared to depart, bidding farewell as they had come. They took leave of Partha, and journeyed to Antardvipa. At that moment, Vasudeva—Krishna, the joy of the Yadus—spoke warmly to Arjuna: “O bull among the Bharatas, remain here for twenty-two days. Ascend my chariot, yoked with the noble steeds Shaibya and Sugriva. With Subhadra, O Partha, happily enter Khāṇḍavaprastha; later, I shall come with the Yadavas. Until then, dwell in Rukmini’s house, observing the vow of a recluse.” Having spoken thus, Janardana departed for Antardvipa, while Partha, his purpose fulfilled, completed the marriage rites. Affection blossomed between Subhadra and the noble Partha, their mutual love growing ever deeper. So it was that the heroic descendant of Bharata was united with the auspicious Subhadra. Even Rama, accompanied by Sita, had not surpassed her in modesty, beauty, and humility. Subhadra’s grace and virtue made her the equal of divine and noble women, steadfast in her conduct. By her very presence and radiance, Partha shone even brighter—like the autumn sun gleaming with a thousand rays. The illustrious maiden, wholly devoted to him, became absorbed in her husband, and entered the city of maidens. In time, Dhananjaya resolved to depart from the city of the Andhakas, and he spoke gently to Subhadra: “Give to the foremost virtuous Brahmins what is due—food, delicacies, and gifts—before you return to your own city. For the completion of your great vow, and on your own behalf, go swiftly, O blessed one, to the palace of the great king. Bring the excellent white horses—Shaivya, Sugriva, Meghapushpa, and Balahaka—endowed with energy, strength, and speed. Quickly bring the splendidly adorned chariot, yoked for the vow, with your companions. Gather all weapons, banners, quivers, and bows, and place the best chariots and mighty clubs upon the vehicles.” Hearing Arjuna’s instructions, Subhadra, ever auspicious in her words, went with her companions to the king’s residence. For the sake of her vow, she told the guards, “I will go to complete the great vow with this chariot, yoked by Shaivya and Sugriva and equipped with the weapons of the wielder of Sharnga.” The people assembled, hands joined in reverence, and prepared the splendid chariot, blessing her as they did so. Everything was arranged as Arjuna had directed, and the radiant Subhadra swiftly brought the chariot and announced to Arjuna, “This chariot, best among charioteers, has been brought at your command; go as you wish, O joy of the Kurus.” Joyfully, she then gave rich gifts to the Brahmins—food filled with affection, garments of every kind, and whatever else was desired, according to their wishes and faith. Satisfied with these offerings, the Brahmins departed, bestowing supreme blessings upon her. Subhadra, remembering Dhananjaya’s words—“On earth, there is none equal to me in holding the reins”—ascended the chariot first and took the reins herself, having performed auspicious rites for the horses. Then Dhananjaya, shedding his ascetic garb and changing his appearance, donned his armor and took up his great bow. Clad in white garments, crowned by Mahendra’s gift and adorned with shining ornaments, the son of Kunti mounted the excellent chariot. As they set out, a great commotion arose in the city of maidens. The people beheld Partha, the new bridegroom, armed with arrows, sword, and bow, and the beautiful-hipped Subhadra at his side, holding the reins. The maidens called out to Subhadra, the sister of Vasudeva, as she departed: “You are blessed with every desire, O Subhadra, speaker of auspicious words. Having obtained Arjuna, the heroic beloved of Vasudeva, as your husband, you are the best among noble women, O sister of Krishna. We consider you most fortunate, for Arjuna, the greatest of men, is your husband. You have gained a hero, the supreme chariot-warrior of all the worlds; go, O blessed one, and may you find happiness with friends in your home.” Thus congratulated by her delighted companions, Bhadrā, swift and auspicious, urged the horses onward. At her side, a companion stood fanning her, and with a resounding noise, they departed from the gate of the city of maidens, journeying forth together into their new life.