Story Summary
Discover the heart-touching story of Sudama's Gift, where a humble offering of flattened rice leads to divine blessings and the true meaning of friendship.
Sudama was a poor Brahmin and a childhood friend of Lord Krishna. While Krishna became the King of Dwaraka, Sudama lived in extreme poverty with his wife and children. Struggling to feed his family, Sudama’s wife encouraged him to visit his old friend, believing Krishna would help. Hesitant to go empty-handed, Sudama took a small bundle of flattened rice as a humble gift. When he reached the grand palace, Krishna ran barefoot to embrace him, ignoring royal protocol. Krishna washed Sudama's feet with his own hands and treated him like a king. Feeling ashamed of his meager gift, Sudama tried to hide it, but Krishna playfully snatched the bundle. He ate a handful of the rice with immense joy, declaring it the most delicious meal he had ever tasted. Overwhelmed by Krishna’s love, Sudama spent the night in the palace but could not bring himself to ask for money. He returned home wondering how he would explain his empty hands to his wife. However, upon arrival, he found his tiny hut replaced by a magnificent golden palace. His family was dressed in fine silks and his poverty was gone, all granted silently by the Lord who knew his friend's heart.
The Moral
True friendship transcends social status and wealth; God values the purity of a devotee's heart over the magnitude of their offerings.
“The Lord does not look at the gift, but at the heart of the giver.”
Fun Fact
The city of Porbandar in Gujarat is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Sudama, and it houses the only temple in the world dedicated to him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Sudama's Gift?
The moral is that true friendship is based on love, not wealth. It also teaches that God understands the needs of His devotees and provides for them even if they do not ask.
What did Sudama give to Krishna as a gift?
Sudama gave Krishna a small bundle of flattened rice, also known as 'poha' or 'aval.' It was the only food his family had left in their house.
Why did Sudama go to meet Krishna?
Sudama went to meet Krishna at his wife's request because they were living in extreme poverty. She believed that Krishna, being a true friend, would help them in their time of need.
How did Krishna react when he saw Sudama?
Krishna was overjoyed and ran barefoot to the palace gates to welcome him. He showed great humility by washing Sudama's feet and seating him on his own throne.
Why didn't Sudama ask Krishna for help?
Sudama was overwhelmed by Krishna's selfless love and hospitality. He felt that asking for material wealth would tarnish the purity of their friendship and his devotion.
What happened to Sudama's house at the end?
Upon returning home, Sudama found that his humble hut had been miraculously transformed into a grand palace filled with riches, a gift from Krishna given in secret.