Arjuna and the Palace of Wonders

Once upon a time, in the mystical land of Khandava, a fierce fire raged across the forest. As the flames roared and trees crackled, a powerful demon named Mayasura rushed out, desperate and terrified. He spotted the valiant warrior Arjuna and pleaded, “Save me from this fire, noble one, and I shall repay your kindness in any way you wish.”

Moved by his plea, Arjuna protected Mayasura from the raging flames. The demon, grateful for his life, offered Arjuna a gift. “You have saved me,” he said. “I am a master architect and illusionist. Allow me to build a palace for you that the world has never seen!”

Arjuna agreed, and so Mayasura began his extraordinary work. He designed a grand palace for the Pandavas in their capital, Indraprastha. The palace was a marvel, with illusions so intricate that it was almost magical. At its heart was a grand assembly hall surrounding a pool of water. The floor was crafted from marble so pure it looked like still water, giving the illusion that one could step right into it.

Mayasura adorned the hall with precious gems that sparkled like fish, and he positioned them so that the floor seemed to ripple like a pool. Even the doors were crafted to look like part of the wall, making it hard to tell where they began and ended. The entire palace was a masterpiece of beauty and enchantment.

When Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, first saw the palace, he was left speechless by its beauty. All the Pandavas marveled at Mayasura’s skill, grateful for his incredible gift.

Moral: True kindness often brings unexpected rewards, and even the smallest act of compassion can lead to wonders beyond imagination.