Tales froM Indian Mythology

Author(s): A S Raman
Publisher: Kutub Popular

Page 31

Savitri's Triumph
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asked her to seek her own lord, and her choice shall have my approval.”
Meanwhile, Savitri's return to the palace was announced by the dwara palas (sentries). The king was naturally excited at the news and at once sent for her.
Savitri came and bowed to Narada and her father. "Have you no news for us, princess?” Narada asked.
"There is a prince in exile in the forest not far from our frontiers. He lives with his venerable parents. I have chosen him as my lord, and let the devas, the rishis and all the elements shower their blessings on us.”
"What!” exclaimed Narada. "Satyavan to be your husband!”
"What is your objection to him, mahamuni ?" asked Aswapati.
"He is fit to be the husband of a goddess. But it is his fate that he shall die on his sixteenth birthday."
"My beloved child,” implored Aswapati. "Can you not give him up and seek some other prince?"
Replied Savitri: "A woman chooses her lord only once, and the entire universe bears witness to her decision. How can she change it, О great king, and gracious sage?”
"Be it so, and may God be with you! Mahamuni, can you tell me something about this boy and his parents?"
"Satyavan was a little boy when his father, the saintly Salwa king, Dyumatsena, lost his throne to a tyrant and went into the woods. Now he is their only hope, but how ephemeral human hopes are! Savitri and Aswapati, I must take leave of you now. Be it well with all! Narayana! Narayana!" And he vanished.