Tenali Raman and the Blessing of Kali: The Jester’s Choice

One fateful night, after learning the powerful mantras taught by the monk, young Tenali Raman ventured to the Kali temple to seek the goddess’s blessings. In the dead of night, under a blanket of eerie silence, Raman’s chants filled the air. Suddenly, a deafening noise shattered the stillness, and a formidable figure appeared before him—it was Goddess Kali herself.

With a thousand heads, blazing eyes, and fiery breath, her appearance was nothing short of terrifying. Yet, Raman stood unfazed, a calm smile playing on his lips.

“Why are you laughing?” the goddess demanded, her voice echoing like thunder.

Raman, in his characteristic wit, replied, “Oh, Devi! I was wondering—how do you manage? I struggle with just one nose during a cold, and you have a thousand! With only two hands, how do you wipe them all? It’s truly a mystery!”

The goddess, amused by his humor, broke into hearty laughter. She saw in Raman a cleverness that set him apart. To reward his bravery and wit, Kali presented two golden pots.

“One pot contains the milk of wealth, which will make you rich,” she explained. “The other holds the milk of wisdom, granting you unparalleled intelligence. You may choose only one.”

Raman, ever the trickster, thought quickly. “Oh, Devi, how can I choose without tasting both? Allow me a sip from each!” Before she could stop him, he emptied both pots in an instant.

The goddess, though impressed, frowned. “Raman, you are clever but greedy! You broke the rule. As punishment, I curse you to become a jester.”

Raman, undeterred, pleaded, “Devi, please make me a wise and good poet too. After all, even you held both pots, showing their equal importance. Surely, wisdom and wealth together create a meaningful life!”

Kali, cornered by Raman’s logic, smiled. “You are destined to become a great poet and jester. However, the world will remember you more for your wit as a jester. May you use your gifts wisely.”

With that, the goddess disappeared, leaving Raman thrilled and grateful. From that moment, his life’s path was set—one that would make him the legendary court jester and poet of King Krishna Devaraya’s empire.

Moral of the Story:

True greatness lies in balancing wisdom with material success. Humor and intelligence together can turn even curses into blessings.