Pradyumna – The Triumph of Love and Destiny

Once, the sage Narada visited Rukmini, the wife of Lord Krishna, and foretold that she would soon give birth to Pradyumna, the reincarnation of Kama, the god of love, who had been incinerated by Lord Shiva’s wrath. True to the prophecy, Rukmini soon gave birth to a beautiful son. However, a powerful demon named Sambara, who feared this child’s destiny, learned of Pradyumna’s birth. Determined to prevent the child from growing up, Sambara kidnapped the infant when he was only six days old and cast him into the ocean.

In a miraculous turn, a large fish swallowed the baby, and Pradyumna survived within it. The fish was later caught by fishermen and taken to Sambara’s palace. As fate would have it, Mayavati, a maid in Sambara’s household and the reincarnation of Kama’s wife, Rati, discovered the baby when the fish was cut open. Recognizing him as her long-lost husband reincarnated, she took him under her care and nurtured him.

Pradyumna grew up to be a striking young man, bearing a striking resemblance to Kama. When Mayavati revealed his origins and his mission to avenge Sambara’s cruelty, Pradyumna felt a powerful urge to fulfill his destiny. Mayavati, who possessed mystical powers, taught Pradyumna the skills he would need to face the demon.

Armed with newfound strength and courage, Pradyumna confronted Sambara. After an intense battle, he defeated the demon, bringing an end to his tyranny. With his mission complete, Pradyumna returned to Dwarka with Mayavati. His mother, Rukmini, and the entire kingdom welcomed him with joy and pride.

Recognizing Pradyumna and Mayavati as the incarnations of Kama and Rati, Krishna himself performed their wedding ceremony, celebrating the reunion of love that had endured even death.

**Moral:** Love and destiny are powerful forces that transcend obstacles and adversities. True purpose and courage, even in the face of challenges, pave the way to triumph.