Saturday, July 5, 2025

Chandasimha and Sattavasila - Part Five

 

The other city that the princess led Chandasimha and Sattavasila to, had trees that produced flowers and fruits for all the seasons, at the same time. The city itself was made of gold and jewels.

The princess led the king to the throne and told him her story. “I am the daughter of Kalanemi, the asura who was killed by Lord Vishnu.” The princess nodded at the king. “I have inherited these two cities from my father and these cities were designed by Vishwakarma, the divine architect.These cities can provide everything that a person wants.” The princess studied the king and took a deep breath. “I look upon you as my father now. And I am placing these two cities at your disposal.”

The king studied the princess and smiled. “You are my daughter now. So I give you as a wife to my friend and relation - Sattavasila.”

The princess happily agreed to this.

The king then turned to Sattavasila. “You had given me two amalaka fruits when I was in need. What I have done for you today is in return for one of the fruits that you have given me.”



Sattavasila bowed to the king but he was speechless.

The king then turned to the princess. “Now, this city belongs to you and Sattavasila. So lead me to my own city.”

The princess first gave the king a sword that would make the wielder invincible against anyone. The princess also gave the king a fruit which when eaten would prevent old age and death.

After that, the king went to the tank of water. He stepped into it and came out of his own city.

Sattavasila and the princess ruled the undersea kingdom and Chandasimha went back to him own kingdom and ruled that place.



Now that the story of Chandasimha and Sattavasila was complete, Vetala had a question for King Trivikramasena.

“Who among the two men was more brave? Chandasimha or Sattavasila?”

The king thought for some time. “Sattavasila.”

“Why?”

“Sattavasila did not know what to expect when he went to the undersea kingdom. But he went on. The king on the other hand knew exactly what to expect. That would mean Sattavasila was the braver one. The king never tried to charm the princess because he had realized that it would have never worked on the princess. But it is Sattavasila who is the braver of the two men.”

On receiving the right answer, Vetala flew back to the tree away from King Trivikramasena.

Adapted from the Katha Sarith Sagara


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