The Mahabharata, originally written by Sage Veda Vyasa, briefly mentions Draupadi’s previous birth and Shiva’s boon. But a few folklores have expanded this as the story of Nalayani.
In Draupadi’s previous birth, she was Nalayani, a woman who desired a husband who possessed noble qualities. She believed that no ordinary man possessed these noble qualities, so she decided to perform severe penance.
Nalayani performed severe penance and prayed to Lord Shiva for many years and one day, pleased by her devotion and dedication, Lord Shiva appeared before her and offered her a boon.
Nalayani wished for a husband who was righteous, physically strong, skilled in archery, handsome, and patient.
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This story is a part of my published book, Epic Tales with Samrudhi.
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