The Tale of Chandraprabha: Courage and True Love

Once, Betal, in his usual playful manner, began telling Vikram a story about courage, invention, and love. The story was about a young woman named Chandraprabha, who was admired for her intelligence and charm. She came from a noble family, and when the time came for her to marry, her family began the search for a worthy suitor.

Chandraprabha, however, was not interested in wealth or status; she desired a partner who was truly remarkable. Her father declared that he would marry her to a man who could prove himself worthy through a unique talent or act of courage. Soon, three suitors appeared, each with their own extraordinary abilities, hoping to win Chandraprabha’s hand.

The first suitor was a brilliant scholar, known far and wide for his knowledge and wisdom. He impressed her brother, who admired intellect and learning. The second was a skilled inventor, a man of great creativity, who intrigued Chandraprabha’s mother, as she herself was an inventor. Finally, the third suitor was a courageous warrior, known for his strength and bravery, who captured the admiration of Chandraprabha’s father, who valued valor.

One day, the three suitors were invited to meet Chandraprabha, her family, and her relatives. As they gathered for the meeting, an incredible sight filled the sky. The second suitor, the inventor, arrived on a marvelous flying machine he had built, descending gracefully before them. The family and guests were amazed at the invention, and the scholar and warrior watched with awe.

But just as everyone admired the invention, a terrifying demon appeared out of nowhere, roaring fiercely and attacking the group. The people panicked, running in all directions. In the chaos, Chandraprabha was swept up by the demon and taken onto the flying machine.

While the scholar and inventor stood frozen, the warrior leaped into action. Drawing his sword, he courageously climbed onto the flying machine, engaging the demon in a fierce battle high above the ground. With skill and determination, he fought the creature, eventually overpowering it and saving Chandraprabha from its grasp.

The flying machine landed safely, and the warrior carried Chandraprabha back to her family, unharmed. The family and guests were filled with gratitude and admiration for his bravery.

When it was time for Chandraprabha to choose her suitor, her decision was clear. Though the scholar had wisdom and the inventor had brilliance, the warrior had shown courage in the face of danger, risking his life to protect her. Moved by his selflessness and bravery, Chandraprabha chose the warrior as her husband.

Betal, concluding the tale, asked Vikram, “Which man did Chandraprabha finally marry, and why?”

Vikram replied, “She chose the warrior because he risked his life to save her, while the others did nothing.”

Pleased with Vikram’s answer, Betal flew away, leaving Vikram with the thought that true love is often earned through courage and selflessness.

**Moral:** True worth is revealed in times of crisis. Bravery, selflessness, and the willingness to protect others speak louder than knowledge or skill alone.