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came upon a hillock on the way. The labourer was panting breathlessly. The Minister took pity on him, “Sire! Kindly lighten this labourer's burden.”
“It is you who is saying this. Is he complaining?” “Shall I ask him?"
“Yes, ask him but first make an announcement that whatever wares each labourer is carrying, will be gifted away to him by the Emperor.” The announcement was made. Then the Minister asked the labourer, “Would you like to remove something from your sack?” The labourer refused point-blank. Not only that, the dejection, exhaustion and helplessness which were earlier visible on his face, had disappeared. In their place, one could see freshness, lustre and vitality. Did the heavy burden remain painful for him anymore?
A Hindu wife, on her husband's death, wanted to commit 'sati'. The English Officer did not grant her permission to do so, saying, “The woman is not committing ‘sati' on her own accord. It is society which is forcing her to do it.” The wife, who was adamant, said, "It is my wish alone to do so.” The Officer said, “This is a momentary ardour. The moment the fire scorches you, your resolve will evaporate.” However, the woman was very firm. The Officer then said, “I will permit you if you pass my test.” He lit a fire, told the woman to put her hand in it and instructed her not to withdraw it till she was asked to do so. If she withdrew it before, she would not be granted permission. The woman put her hand in the blazing fire. Sati = a woman who sacrifices her life by burning with the husband's corpse
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