Previous life of Draupadi

Mahabharata Adiparva Chaitrarathaparva section 171-172

Sri Sadgurubhyoh Namah

Hearing the narrative of the Brahmana about birth of Draupadi, and also listening of the Draupadi's swayamvara, Pandavas with their mother set out towards Panchala kingdom. While they were living in Ekachakra town, Vyasa visited them once more to tell them about their future wife.

There lived a certain maiden in a rishis hermitage. Due to her past karma, she couldnt get married in that life. So she did great penance pleasing Lord Shankar. Shiva being Bhaktavatsala (who shows fatherly affection to devotees), appeared before her and told her to ask any boon she wants. She asked him for a husband with various qualities, repeatedly. Lord Shankara then granted that boon and said, she will have five husbands from Bharata clan. She said, "Lord, I want only one husband", to this the Lord said, "You asked for a husband, five times, hence you will have five husbands in your next life".

Having narrated the above story, Vyasa then said to Pandavas "Sons, that damsel is reborn as Draupadi to Panchala king, Drupada. She is set aside as the Queen for all five of you. Go to Panchala and obtain her as your wife".

Commentary :

When people pray, they have to make a sankalpa (statement of intention) properly and their objective should be clear in their mind. One has to be careful what one utters, and also what one thinks apart from being careful about actions. The fulfiller of our wishes is Mata Parvati the ruler of the universe. She being mother to all, will make true what we wish. So be careful even in your thoughts, not only in your actions.

Budhdha also said, One has to be clear about the objective of their prayers.

Hari OM