Story Summary
Discover the tale of The Princess Badroulbadour, the Sultan's daughter whose beauty captured Aladdin's heart and led to a grand adventure of love and magic.
In the heart of the Orient lived the Princess Badroulbadour, the Sultan’s daughter, whose beauty was said to outshine the sun. One day, while she was on her way to the royal baths, a young man named Aladdin caught a forbidden glimpse of her face. Struck by her grace, he vowed to win her hand. Using the power of a magic lamp and its mighty Genie, Aladdin presented the Sultan with basins overflowing with rare jewels and a magnificent palace built overnight. Though the Sultan was impressed and the two were wed, their happiness was threatened by an African magician who sought the lamp for himself. Disguised as a merchant, the sorcerer tricked the Princess into trading her 'old lamp' for a new one while Aladdin was away, and he instantly transported her and the entire palace to a distant land. Courageous and clever, Badroulbadour did not despair. When Aladdin found her, she followed his plan, drugging the magician's wine during a feast. As the sorcerer fell into a deep sleep, Aladdin reclaimed the lamp, restored their home, and the couple lived out their days in peace and prosperity.
The Moral
True devotion combined with wit and courage can overcome even the most powerful deceptions.
“For the love of a princess, a pauper may become a king, but only his courage keeps the crown.”
Fun Fact
The original story of Aladdin was actually set in a fictionalized version of China, though the culture and characters described are distinctly Middle Eastern and Islamic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Princess Badroulbadour?
The story teaches that love and resourcefulness are more powerful than magic or greed. It emphasizes that a partnership built on mutual trust can survive the greatest of trials.
How did Aladdin win the heart of the Princess?
Aladdin first impressed her father with miraculous gifts of jewels and a palace, but he won the Princess’s heart through his devotion and his daring rescue when she was kidnapped.
Is Princess Badroulbadour the same as Princess Jasmine?
Yes, Princess Jasmine is the name used in the 1992 Disney film, but in the original 'One Thousand and One Nights' tales, her name is Badroulbadour. The character's core traits of independence and beauty remain similar in both versions.
What does the name Badroulbadour mean?
The name is derived from Arabic and translates to 'Full Moon of Full Moons.' In Middle Eastern literature, the full moon is a common poetic metaphor for ultimate feminine beauty.
How did the Princess defeat the African magician?
She played a pivotal role by pretending to be charmed by the magician while Aladdin was in hiding. She tricked the villain into drinking poisoned or drugged wine, allowing Aladdin to strike the final blow.
What was the trick used to steal the magic lamp?
The magician went through the streets crying 'New lamps for old!' The Princess, unaware of the old copper lamp's magical power, traded it for a shiny new one, thinking she was doing her husband a favor.