The Sweet Revenge of Tenali Raman

After becoming the court jester of King Krishnadevaraya, Tenali Raman had everything he needed—except closure for the betrayal he felt from the deceitful court priest, Tathachary. Tathachary had taken advantage of Raman’s loyalty and dismissed him in his earlier attempts to enter the royal court. Now, Raman sought the perfect opportunity to settle the score.

Tathachary was known for disregarding the very rules he expected others to follow, often bathing in the Tungabhadra River in a manner unbecoming of a royal priest. One morning, Raman decided it was time to teach him a lesson. Quietly, he followed Tathachary to the riverbank.

As the priest undressed and waded into the water, Raman seized his robes and hid them in a nearby bush. When Tathachary emerged from the river, he was shocked to find his clothes missing. Frantically searching the area, he spotted Raman standing nearby, calm and collected.

Realizing it was Raman who had taken his robes, Tathachary pleaded, “Raman, please return my clothes. This is no time for jokes!”

Raman, recalling the humiliation and rejection he had suffered at the hands of the priest, replied, “Do you remember how you treated me when I sought your help at Vijayanagaram? Perhaps this is karma at work.”

Tathachary, feeling the sting of guilt, begged for forgiveness. “I was wrong, Raman. Please, return my clothes, and I will do whatever you ask.”

Raman smirked and proposed his condition. “Very well, I will return your clothes. But first, you must carry me on your shoulders to the palace as penance for your actions.”

Humbled and left with no other choice, the priest reluctantly agreed. Tathachary, soaking wet and humiliated, carried Raman through the crowded streets of Vijayanagaram. Onlookers roared with laughter, jeering at the disgraced priest as Raman sat atop his shoulders with a triumphant grin.

By the time they reached the palace, Tathachary had learned his lesson. Raman forgave him, but the incident served as a lasting reminder of the consequences of arrogance and betrayal.

Moral of the Story:

Arrogance and deceit often lead to humiliation, while justice has its own unique way of being served. Always treat others with respect and fairness, for today’s actions may define tomorrow’s consequences.