The Tale of King Jairajan and Shankar’s Bravery

Betal spoke to Vikram, “You are indeed a brave warrior, but let me tell you a tale of true courage.”

Long ago, there was a noble king named Jairajan. One day, he discovered that his ministers were conspiring against him to seize his throne and end his life. Desiring to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, Jairajan chose to relinquish his kingdom and live in peace. He left his palace and settled in a distant village, where he married a kind-hearted woman and lived a humble, contented life.

One evening, as he returned home, Jairajan stumbled upon a horrifying sight—a pile of human bones lying in a secluded area. Disturbed, he hurried home and recounted the unsettling scene to his wife. She explained that the local kingdom had a dark tradition: each year, they sacrificed a young boy to appease the mighty eagle, Garuda, who threatened the kingdom. Jairajan soon learned that a brave young boy named Shankar had been chosen as the next sacrifice.

Moved by the boy’s plight, Jairajan met with Shankar’s parents and offered to take the boy’s place in the ritual. Though Shankar was determined to accept his fate, Jairajan insisted on risking his life instead. On the day of the sacrifice, as Garuda descended from the sky, the mighty bird snatched Jairajan in its powerful claws and carried him away. 

In a moment of extraordinary courage, Shankar ran after Garuda, risking his life to save Jairajan. Tragically, he was killed in his attempt. When Jairajan’s wife heard of this, she was overcome with grief and begged Garuda to return her husband. Moved by her devotion, Garuda restored Jairajan’s life. In gratitude, Jairajan prayed to Garuda to bring back all the boys who had perished in the past sacrifices. Deeply impressed, Garuda granted his wish, reviving the lost lives.

After hearing this tale, Betal posed a question to Vikram: “Whose sacrifice was greater—Shankar’s or Jairajan’s?” Without hesitation, Vikram replied, “Shankar’s sacrifice was greater. Though he was only a young boy, he willingly offered his life to save another.”

With Vikram’s answer, Betal, as always, slipped away, leaving Vikram to pursue him once more.