Anand, Anju, and the Noble Robber’s Sacrifice

While Vikram was carrying Betal on his shoulder, Betal began narrating a tale of love, sacrifice, and nobility. The story revolved around a young man named Anand, who was deeply in love with a woman named Anju. However, Anju’s marriage had already been arranged with another man, and Anand, heartbroken, resolved never to marry anyone else.

After her marriage, Anju was still fond of Anand and wrote him a letter, asking to meet him one last time. On her wedding night, she informed her husband of her intentions and set out to meet Anand. During her journey, she was accosted by a robber who attempted to take her jewels. Anju explained her situation to the robber, asking him to let her complete her last farewell, and even promised to give him her jewels on her return. Moved by her words, the robber allowed her to go unharmed.

When Anju finally met Anand, he was taken aback and urged her to return to her husband, realizing that accepting another man’s wife would bring dishonor. He asked her to go back to her rightful place.

Respecting Anand’s wishes, Anju began her journey back. On the way, she encountered the same robber. True to her word, she offered him her jewels. However, the robber, being noble at heart, declined her offer. Instead, he escorted her safely back to her husband’s home. Tragically, when Anju returned, her husband, suspecting her of betrayal, refused to accept her. Heartbroken and with no place to turn, Anju ended her life.

After concluding the story, Betal asked Vikram, “Who was the only noble man among the three?” Vikram replied, “The robber was the noblest among them, for he helped a woman in distress without taking advantage of her situation, showing true honor.”

With Vikram’s answer, Betal flew away, as was his custom whenever Vikram broke his silence.

**Moral:** True nobility lies in one’s character, not in social status or appearance. A kind heart and honorable actions define real nobility.