The Tale of Satyavadi Harishchandra

Once upon a time, there was a noble king named Harishchandra, known far and wide for his unwavering commitment to truth and integrity. He ruled the kingdom of Ayodhya, where his people lived happily and prosperously, inspired by their king’s righteousness. King Harishchandra’s reputation for honesty and dedication to his word was legendary.

One day, while hunting in the forest, Harishchandra heard the cry of a woman in distress. Following the sound, he found himself at the ashram of the sage Vishwamitra, who had been disturbed in his meditation. Angered by the interruption, Vishwamitra confronted the king. Seeking to appease the sage, Harishchandra offered to fulfill any request as an act of penance.

Vishwamitra demanded that Harishchandra donate his entire kingdom. Without hesitation, Harishchandra agreed, parting with his throne and all his wealth. However, Vishwamitra insisted on a dakshina (a ceremonial offering) to finalize the gift. Left with nothing, Harishchandra asked for time to gather the dakshina. The sage granted him a month.

True to his word, Harishchandra left his kingdom, accompanied only by his loyal wife Shaivya and their young son, Rohitashwa. They journeyed to the holy city of Kashi, where Harishchandra hoped to earn the amount needed. However, as the month drew to a close, he found himself penniless, unable to fulfill his pledge.

In desperation, Harishchandra made a heartbreaking decision. He asked Shaivya to sell herself and their son into servitude to raise the required sum. Although reluctant, Shaivya agreed, understanding the depth of her husband’s commitment to his promise. She sold herself to a Brahmin, while Harishchandra’s young son was also sold. Watching his family suffer, Harishchandra’s heart broke, yet he remained resolute, valuing truth above all else.

Eventually, the required amount was gathered, and Harishchandra paid the dakshina to Vishwamitra, honoring his word. Impressed by his unyielding devotion to truth and sacrifice, the gods themselves intervened, restoring his family and kingdom as a reward for his unparalleled righteousness.

**Moral of the Story:** The strength of character and unwavering commitment to truth are the highest virtues. True honor lies in keeping one’s word, even at great personal cost. Harishchandra’s tale reminds us that integrity and sacrifice ultimately lead to divine blessings and fulfillment.