Arjuna and the Curse of the Crocodiles

When Arjuna, the valiant warrior of the Pandavas, was on a pilgrimage, he arrived at a serene ashram surrounded by five enchanting pools of water. As he rested, he learned from the ashram’s inhabitants that the pools were cursed, and that a crocodile lurked in each one, preventing anyone from enjoying their waters.

Intrigued by the mystery, Arjuna decided to help. With courage and strength, he approached one of the pools and waited until a crocodile surfaced. In a swift move, he grabbed the crocodile and pulled it out of the water. To his astonishment, the creature transformed into a beautiful woman. She explained that she was one of five celestial maidens cursed to live as crocodiles due to a transgression in the court of Kubera, the god of wealth.

The maiden introduced herself as Saurabha and explained that she and her sisters—Samichi, Lata, Saurabha, Samichi, and Sulekha—had been cursed by a sage for disturbing his meditation. The curse condemned them to remain as crocodiles until a noble warrior pulled them from the water.

Hearing this, Arjuna proceeded to each pool, and one by one, he freed each crocodile, transforming them back into their original forms. The five celestial maidens thanked Arjuna deeply for his compassion and bravery, blessing him with prosperity and success on his journey.

With their curse lifted, the pools sparkled anew, and the maidens returned to their celestial abode, grateful for their liberation. Arjuna continued on his pilgrimage, his heart enriched by yet another tale of courage and kindness.

**Moral of the Story:** True heroism lies not only in strength but in the willingness to help others, even when there is no reward in sight. Arjuna’s tale reminds us that compassion and bravery together have the power to lift curses and bring freedom.