Story Summary
Experience the epic Story of Nala and Damayanti, a tale of love, loss, and redemption from the Mahabharata where devotion triumphs over the demon Kali's curse.
King Nala of Nishada was as virtuous as he was handsome, and Princess Damayanti of Vidarbha was the most beautiful woman in the world. Their love began before they even met, sparked by the words of a golden swan that flew between them as a messenger. At Damayanti’s swayamvara, she faced a divine test: four gods—Indra, Agni, Varuna, and Yama—disguised themselves as Nala to win her hand. Recognizing the true Nala by his shadow and blinking eyes, she chose him, earning the gods' blessing. However, the demon Kali, enraged by their happiness, waited twelve years for a moment of impurity to possess Nala. Under Kali’s influence, Nala lost his kingdom in a rigged game of dice against his brother Pushkara. Exiled to the forest, Nala eventually abandoned a sleeping Damayanti, hoping she would return to her family's safety. After many trials, including Nala being transformed into a stunted charioteer by the serpent Karkotaka, the couple remained devoted. Damayanti used her wit to track him down, recognizing his unique cooking and chariot-driving skills. Once Kali was expelled from his body, Nala regained his form and kingdom, proving that true love is stronger than any curse.
The Moral
Unwavering loyalty and virtue can overcome the greatest misfortunes and even the influence of fate or demons.
“Even the gods could not sway a heart that has already found its home in another.”
Fun Fact
This story is actually a 'story within a story' in the Mahabharata, told by the sage Brihadaswa to Yudhishthira to comfort him during his own exile and gambling loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Story of Nala and Damayanti?
The moral is that true love, patience, and virtue are powerful enough to defeat even divine or demonic interference. It emphasizes that a steadfast heart can eventually overcome the darkest period of one's life.
Who is Kali in this story?
In this context, Kali is the personification of the current dark age and the demon of gambling. He waited for years to find a flaw in Nala, eventually possessing him to cause his downfall through a game of dice.
How did Damayanti recognize Nala among the gods?
While the four gods looked exactly like Nala, Damayanti noticed they did not sweat, their eyes did not blink, and their feet did not touch the ground. The real Nala possessed all these human traits, allowing her to identify him.
Why did Nala leave Damayanti in the forest?
Possessed by the demon Kali and consumed by shame for losing his kingdom, Nala believed he was a burden. He abandoned her while she slept, hoping she would find her way back to her father's palace for a better life.
How were Nala and Damayanti finally reunited?
Damayanti held a second fake swayamvara, knowing only Nala could drive a chariot fast enough to reach it in time. She confirmed his identity by his peerless chariot skills and the unique, divine taste of the food he cooked.
What is the significance of the golden swan?
The golden swan serves as the celestial matchmaker and messenger. It represents the purity of their initial connection, carrying their professions of love across kingdoms before they had ever seen one another.