The Cunning Priest and Tenali Raman’s Resolve

Tenali Raman, brimming with ambition, yearned to join the prestigious court of Emperor Krishnadevaraya. Believing that gaining the favor of the royal priest, Tathachary, would pave his way, he approached the priest with humility and a clever plan.

Tathachary, a shrewd and self-serving man, saw an opportunity to exploit Raman’s talents for his personal benefit. Recognizing the brilliance of Raman’s poetry, particularly his masterful work Lingapurana, the priest feigned admiration and offered hollow promises.

“You are destined for greatness in the court,” Tathachary declared with crocodile tears. “Serve me for now, and I shall ensure your entry into the durbar.”

Raman, fueled by hope and determination, stayed at Mangalagiri, assisting the priest with unwavering dedication. He performed every menial task and continued to impress Tathachary with his intellect and creativity. But the priest, envious and insecure, had no intention of helping Raman.

When the time came for Tathachary to return to Vijayanagaram, he bid farewell with deceitful words. “I will send for you soon. Trust me,” he said, leaving Raman with dreams of a bright future.

Days turned to weeks, and no messenger arrived. Realizing the betrayal, Raman decided to take matters into his own hands. With his wife and child, he embarked on a grueling journey to Vijayanagaram, determined to confront the treacherous priest.

Upon reaching the priest’s residence, Raman was denied entry. Tathachary, consumed by fear and jealousy, refused to acknowledge him. When Raman insisted, the priest ordered his servants to throw him out forcibly.

Humiliated but undeterred, Raman vowed revenge. “You have cheated me, Swami,” he muttered under his breath. “But I will teach you a lesson so clever that you’ll regret underestimating me.”

Tenali Raman’s resolve marked the beginning of a journey where his wit and determination would eventually lead him to the emperor’s court, not through deceit but through his brilliance.

Moral of the Story:

False promises and deceit can only provide temporary gains. True talent and perseverance eventually prevail over cunning and dishonesty.