Mahabharata - Story of Nala and Damayanti

Nala and Damayanti

Nala was the monarch who ruled over the kingdom called Nishadha. He was possessed of many qualities. On the one hand he was handsome and powerful. He was well versed with knowledge like that of handling horses and driving chariots. He owned over a large army and a prosperous kingdom. On the other hand he respected Brahmins and was well versed in scriptures. He was therefore like a God on the earth because of his wisdom, might and splendour. However he had one weakness. He loved the game of dice.

A king called Bhima ruled over the kingdom of Vidarbha. The king was well respected and had everything, except that he was childless. Once, a sage named Daman came to his kingdom and on propitiating that sage in the best possible manner, the king got a boon from the sage to have a daughter and three sons. The daughter was named as Damayanti while the sons were named as Dama, Danta and Damana. While the three sons grew up to become powerful and heroic, Damayanti grew up to be one of the most beautiful maidens on earth, whose beauty surpassed even those in the heaven. The bards and other people who visit different regions, in presence of Damayanti used to sing the praise of Nala, while in presence of Nala they could not find enough words to eulogize the beauty of Damayanti. Both Nala and Damayanti, on hearing about each other, secretly longed for each other.

One day when Nala was standing on the terrace of his palace, he could see a flock of swans wandering above. He caught one of the swans with golden wings. The swan told him that the king should not kill him and instead should set him free so that he could go to Damayanti and tell her about Nala in such a way that she would marry none but Nala. Then Nala set the swan free. The flock of swan went to Vidarbha and came to the place where Damayanti was spending time in leisure along with her companions. By seeing the flock Damayanti went to catch hold of the swans when they all fled, except one, who stayed back and said that Damyanti must marry Nala, the best and the most handsome king on the face of the earth, who was her only suitable groom. He was beautiful as the twin Aswinikumaras, and was verily like the Kandarpa. There was no other person in the three worlds who was comparable to Nala in terms of beauty and wisdom, not even the Gods. On hearing this Damayanti expressed her approval, being desirous of marrying Nala. The swan then came back to Nala and related to him the entire conversation whereupon Nala was delighted.

The king Bhima, who had planned for the marriage of his daughter, had organized a grand ceremony in which her daughter would choose her would be groom. Named as Swayamvara or "Herself the chooser", it was a prevalent customs among the kings of olden days to organize a grand festival in which their daughters would choose their husbands from among the kings and princes who would assemble in that reception. Afterwards, whom the princess chose as her future husband, that lucky person would become the groom. So Bhima, in accordance with the custom, invited all the major kings and princes from different states and provinces. The kings are princes came with their armies and horses and elephants to show their might and they all were put up as guests in Vidarbha.

During the same time, the two celestial sages, Narada and Parvata, had gone t heaven to meet Indra, the king of Gods. Indra, also known as Sakra, expressed his concern that those mortal kings of the earth, who fought and died a heroe's death on the battlefight and were always invited as honoured guests in the realm of Indra, were not coming anymore to the heaven. What could be the possible reason for the same? Narada replied that there was no warefare because all the kings had assembled in the Swayamvara of Damayanti. Narada further said that Damayanti was the most beautiful princess and her beauty compared with that of the best of the celestials. It therefore befitted Indra and other celestials to go to the Swayamvara and try their luck. Yama, Varuna and Agni were also present and they heard the conversation. Theye were desirous of attending the Swayamvara and together with Indra they set off for Vidarbha.

King Nala, on hearing about the Swayamvara, was also coming to Vidarbha. On the way, the celestials met Nala and they were amazed by the splendour of the king. He was as handsome as the God of love and his had outshone even the celestials. The Lokapalas or the rulers of the universe, by seeing Nala, gave up whatever hope they had of marrying Damayanti as they knew in their hearts that Damayanti would choose Nala. However they made a plan, rose in the air and addressed Nala saying that the foremost of the king should be their messenger for a purpose. Without asking what the purpose was, Nala, good natured as he was, acceded and then asked the celestials for their introduction and the message that they wished him to deliver. The celestials introduced themselves and told Nala that they were infatuated with Damayanti and hence were going to the Swayamvara. They would require Nala to go beforehand to Damayanti in her private chamber and tell her to select one of the Lokapalas as her husband. Nala pleaded with them that since he was very much in love with Damayanti and was going to the Swayamvara with the object of marrying her, it did not befit the Gods to send him on such an errand. However the Gods sternly replied that Nala had promised to do their bidding and therefore he could not go back on his words. Nala was dejected but he decided to keep his promise and asked the Gods as to how he would gain access to the private chambers. The Gods said that it would be possible by their grace.

Nala thus entered the private palace of Damayanti unseen and he saw the fair maiden resting along with her hand maidens. She was verily the Goddess of beauty herself and even the moonlight paled in comparison with her gentle and majestic beauty. Nala's love for her increased a thousandfold but he had a difficult task to accomplish and therefore he steadied himself. Meanwhile the girls had seen Nala and they were also captivated by his beauty and charm. Damayanti asked him as to who he was and how he could enter her chamber undetected by the guards, even though the king Bhima had stern instructions to ensure her security. Nala gave his name and stated that he came to deliver a message on behalf of the celestials. The Lokapalas would every much like one of them to be selected by Damayanti tomorrow in the Swayamvara. On hearing that it was Nala himself who had come to see her, and on seeing his incomparable beauty, Damayanti, with tearful eyes, said that she had already chosen Nala as her husband and she could not select anyone else. Nala tried to reason with her saying that the celestials were more powerful than him and it was his duty to speak on behalf of them, not for himself. Damayanti, being very intelligent, quickly understood Nala's predicament. She said that since Nala had delivered his message, he had kept his promise and therefore had nothing to fear. She, on the other hand, having heard the message, had decided to select Nala in presence of the celestials.

Nala therefore went back to the celestials who were waiting for him. When they asked him what had passed, he narrated everything truthfully, finally making them aware of Damayanti's intention of choosing him inspite of the presence of the celestials.

The next day the Swayamvara commenced. A vast arena was decorated with gigantic arches and lofty pillars. Kings from the different lands had assembled for the spectacular show and they were adorned with costly jewels and garlands and nice garments. Everybody expectantly waited for the bride to be. She came at the oppurtune moment and after examining the different kings, she went to the place where Nala was sitted. Those kings who were not chosen were disappointed. But when she arrived near Nala, she was surprised to see not one, but five Nalas, all of them looked exactly the same, wore the same clothes and had no indication whatsoever to distinguish one from another. She instantly recognized that it was a ploy of the Gods to get her favour in this way. Instead of choosing Nala she would by accident choose one of them. She thought and thought, but whatever indications she had heard in the scriptures that distinguished the celestials from mortals were not present in any of them. Being afraid that she might choose the wrong Nala, she began to mentally pray to the Gods. She said that she had already chosen Nala as her husband and therefore it did not behove the Gods to play a prank with her. In any case Nala was her husband and any choice that she made was bound to be futile. She also said that it was divinely ordained that Nala would be her husband and therefore the Gods, for the sake of truth, should comply with the same and respect her sentiments.

The Gods were very pleased by her prayer and they understood. Being kind and compassionate, they exhibited in themselves all the indications that could identify a God, viz. their garlands never faded, they never had any shadow, they never winked, they never had any sweat and dirt in their body and their feet never touched the ground. When Damayanti looked carefully, she could see all those indications in the body of four of the Nalas, while the fifth one had garlands that had already faded, was perspiring and had dirt on his garments as he had travelled from a far off place, had his shadow cast and his feet were resting on the ground. Damayanti understood that he was the real mortal Nala and therefore selected him. All other kings were heartbroken but the custom was preserved. The celestials, the Rishis and other well wishers and acquaintances were delighted. Nala was very happy and he told Damayanti that since she considered him even above the celestials, he would remain faithful to her throughout his life and would try his best to delight her in every aspect. Damayanti also pledged her loyalty and love to Nala and the two got married amidst the cheers of the assembled crowd.

The couple then mentally sought the protection of the Lokapalas, who were highly pleased with them. Together they bestowed upon Nala eight boons. Indra assured him of blessed regions of heaven after his death, and also that he would be able to see Indra in all his sacrifices. Agni gave him regions of brightness and also promised that he would be available when Nala merely asked for him. Yama gave him culinary skills and also his eminence in virtue. Varuna also promised him his presence whenever he needed and a celestial garland which never faded.

Nala and Damayanti then got married amidst great pomp and grandeur and the king of Nishadha returned to his kingdom accompanied by his beautful wife. There were much merriments and festivities and his days passed very happily in the company of his wife. He governed his kingdom diligently and with the welfare of people in mind and each of his subjects loved him. he enjoyed the company of Damayanti and they sported together in beautiful gardens. In time, they had two beautiful children born to them, Indrasen and Indrasena, who were as lovely as the celestials. The kingdom erupted in merry making and celebrating.

However all good times end and bad periods simply wait for their time. When the celestials were returning to their heavenly abode, they met two more celestials, Kali and Dwapara on the way. Kali, though a celestial, was evil minded, and so was Dwapara. They were going to the Swayamvara of Damayanti. Kali wanted to get Damayanti himself. He also heard of her incomparable beauty and was bent upon acquiring her. Indra, upon hearing this smiled and gave them the news that the swayamvara had ended and that Damayanti selected the best of grooms for herself, king Nala. The wrathful Kali took offense at this and said that it was improper for Damayanti to choose a mortal in the presence of the Devas. The Lokapalas told him that they permitted Damayanti to marry Nala. But Kali was not satisfied. He said that Damayanti must pay a price because of this transgression. She must suffer. The Devas headed by Indra then warned Kali telling him that Nala was the best and most virtuous of human beings, with numerous sacrifices and charities to his credit. If that blameless monarch comes to grief on account of evil acts, the perpetrators of such acts may be doomed to rot in hell. Saying thus, the celestials retired to their regions. Kali however did not give up the enterprise. Evil as he was, he could hatch a plan and persuade Dwapar to help him in executing it.

Kali then came to Nishadha and waited for finding a fault with Nala for entering his body. However he waited for twelve years in vain and could get none, so particular was Nala in terms of practices as per scriptural injunctions. But it says that patience pays, and so it happened one day that Nala forgot to purify himself before saying his evening prayer. Through this fault as the gate, Kali entered inside Nala.

Nala had a brother named Pushkara. The fellow was worthless, lazy and good for nothing. However being king's brother is a rare privilege and Pushkara therefore enjoyed his power and position. He never harboured, even in his wildest dream, the ambition of becoming a king. With Kali entering into fray all that changed.

Nala had a vice. He was addicted to the game of dice. However he was a good player and hence did not suffer much on account of his addiction. Kali one day approached Pushkara and told him that he could become the king and rule Nishadha if only he invited Nala to a game of dice, which he would not be able to refuse. Pushkara was afraid. He knew that he could not win as Nala was a capable player. But Kali assured him that he could get a victory with the help of Kali and Dwapar. Kali next asked Dwapar to help him by becoming the dice himself. Pushkara now approached Nala in presence of Damayanti and repeatedly entreated him to play a game of dice with him. Nala knew that Pushkara would lose, but being a Kshatriya he could not refuse a challenge. Therefore reluctantly he agreed to take up the challenge. Possessed by Kali, his senses were somewhat bewildered. Therefore he began to play and lose the game. All the stakes that he put, gold and silver and chariots and precious jewels, were all won by Pushkara. Confounded, the king continued with the perilous game. Nobody could dissuade him from not playing. Deluded by Kali, he simply won't listen to any sane advice. All the citizens and councillors of the state came to meet the king to ask him to desist from playing. But it was of no avail. Damayanti, seeing that danger was imminent, called for Varshneya, the faithful charioteer of Nala. She told Varshneya to take Indrasen and Indrasena to Vidarbha and then he was free to take up any body else's service. Varshneya consulted ministers and agreed to do work as per Damayanti's order. He took Indrasen and Indrasena safely to Vidarbha, took leave from king Bhima and went to Ayodhya to take up the service of king Rituparna.

Finally after Pushkara had won everything with the aid of Kali, the evil minded fellow laughed a cruel, heartless laughter and told Nala as to what he intended to put in stake. He also advised Nala to play with Damayanti as a stake, being barely able to conceal his evil intentions. At this Nala, who was much aggrieved, despite agitated and burning inside with rage, remained quiet and desisted from playing further. He was forced to leave the kingdom and wander in the forest with one piece of cloth on. The evil Pushkara had forbidden anybody in his kingdom from helping Nala by instilling a fear of persecution. Therefore although many of his old subjects secretly shed tears for Nala's plight, nobody dared to come to their assistance. At last, Nala and Damayanti were very exhausted and worn out from fatigue and hunger. Nala saw a few birds of golden plume and he tried to catch them with the garment that he wearing. But the birds flew away with the garment and while flying said mockingly, "Couldn't you recognize us? we were the dice. We had come to take away the garment that you were wearing as we did not like that you had even possessed that." Nala, now completely bereft of all possessions, was very dejected. He shared the garment wore by Damayanti and told Damayanti that the roads that led to the Southern country passed through Avanti. The forest tract had several hermitages and led to the road to Vidarbha, the kingdom of Bhima. Damyanti understood that Nala was asking her to leave him and pleaded with him with tears in her eyes as to why he was behaving so cruelly with her. She said that she had no intention of leaving Nala behind in that state of distress and it is better that they both go to Vidrabha where king Bhima would welcome them with open arms. Nala said that it also caused him terrible pain to even think of getting separated from Damayanti. However he would not be able to go to Vidarbha in the state of despair that had fallen him, when he had on a previous occasion gone there in his glory and affluence.

The two traveled far and wide into the forest and at last came to a traveller's shelter. There they spread their garment to take some rest and the tired Damayanti was soon fast asleep. However Nala, thinking of the many sufferings borne by Damayanti and himself, could not sleep. In the meanwhile Kali who was there inside him began provoking him to leave Damayanti and go elsewhere. He reasoned with himself that if he deserted Damayanti she might be able to go back to her relatives on her own. With him, she may have more difficulties and troubles. He therefore wandered nearby and found a sword lying there, as if to invite him to take it up for fulfilling his purpose. With that sword he tore the garment worn by Damayanti and took half a portion of it. However he could not go far. Lamenting piteously for Damayanti he came back to the very place where she was sleeping. Again Kali influenced him to go, but again he came back drawn by his love for her. This tussle continued for sometime and at last Kali won. Devoid of good senses, Nala left Damayanti in that forest infested with wild animals and serpents and ran away, not daring to turn back and after praying to the Gods to look after her and take care of her.

At last refreshed from her long sleep Damayanti woke up but she could not find Nala anywhere. She at first thought that Nala was playing with her, so convinced was she that he, a firm adherer to truth, would never go back on his words. She therefore appealed to him to come out of his hiding. But nobody came. She was now terribly afraid, being alone in that forest, and began to wail for him. Tired and forlorn, she came to an area in the forest where a large serpent was lying down and when it saw Damayanti approaching, it coiled around her for the purpose of eating her. Meanwhile a hunter heard her piteous lamentations and came running. He cut the beast with his sharp weapon, freed Damayanti, and gave her water and food. However his intentions were not good as he was captivated by the beauty of Damayanti. Damayanti understood his intentions. Her inner purity and chastity was so high that when she cast an angry glance at the hunter to stop him from carrying out his evil intentions, he fell dead. Damayanti then walked through that forest which was full of wild animals.

However Damayanti was not afraid of the wild animals or for her life. Her every thoughts were devoted to Nala. She wailed loudly for Nala and asked everybody including the tiger, the mountain, the animate as well as inanimate objects, the whereabouts of Nala. She asked the mountain whether it had seen Nala, who was like a mountain himself in his splendour and glory. She asked the tiger, the Lord of the jungle whether it had seen her Lord, with his might like a tiger. Wandering across the forest and bitterly weeping and lamenting for Nala she atlast came to a beautiful and serene location which was the hermitage of a number of ascetics or Rishis like Atri, Vasistha, Bhrigu and others. she entered the asylum reverentially and with due humility and the sages present welcomed her graceously. The sages then asked Damayanti about herself, whereby she replied that she was the daughter of the king of Vidarbha, Bhima and the wife of great ruler on earth, Nala who could vanquish all the foes and was as handsome as the celestials. She enquired if Nala had perchance come to that hermitage, and she would not be able to live without th company of her Lord. The ascetics then replied that through their mysstic visions they beheld a very bright and prosperous future for Damayanti, that her Lord, the mighty Nala would soon regain his glory and meet his beautiful wife, would conquer his foes and rule his kingdom gladdening his friends. They told Damayanti that her days of woes would come to an end eventually and that she need not despair. Having proclaimed this, the seers and their asylum vanished from her sight. Damayanti was marvelled by this incident and thought that she was perhaps dreaming a very nice dream. Damayanti then resumed her journey, still grief stricken on account of her separation from her husband, and came to another part of the forest where she saw an Asoka tree laden with beautiful flowers. At once, she, overwhelmed by grief and passion, asked the tree whether it had seen Nala, the greatest of the rulers on earth and whether, like its name, for Asoka in Sanskrit meant one which is devoid of grief, could remove her sorrows.

She then came to another, more terrible part of the forest and journeying through the forest she saw many trees, mountains, streams, birds and animals, but nonetheless, she was not afraid, although forlorn and despairing. Atlast she came to a broad path on which there were a group of merchants with elephants and horses, who were camped on the bank of a river. Seeing her in a pitiable state with her hair dishevelled and dirty, clad in half a garment, and suffering from terrible despair, some of the merchants fled from her in terror, some hated her and some others, who were more compassionate in nature, took pity on her and asked her whether she was a Goddess of the forest or a Yaksha or a cannibal, and sought her protection. Damayanti then replied unto them that she was the daughter of the king of Vidarbha and the wife of the mighty Nala and asked them whether they had seen Nala. At this the leader of the group replied that they had not seen Nala in the forest. Damayanti then asked them as to where they were headed. The leader said that they were going to the Chedi kingdom under the rule of Subahu. Damayanti entreated them to take her along and the merchants acquiesced.

While travelling through the forest the caravan came near a beautiful lake with many lotus flowers blooming and decided to rest there. At night, when the merchants were sleeping, a herd of wild elephants came and they attacked the caravan. They killed many people and injured others, killed the horses and other domestic animals and caused widespread destruction and havoc. Many people fled in terror and the other began to bemoan their losses. Some of them, out of their senses blamed Damayanti for the catastrophe, thinking that she had brought them the ill omen. Damayanti, on hearing this, fled from there in terror and greatly grieved for her own ill fate as well as that of the others. Wailing for her miseries, she accompanied the Brahmins in that caravan who had escaped the slaughter, and by evening came to the capital town of Chedi, ruled by king Subahu. She was dishevelled in appearance and wore only a single piece of garments and all the residents of that city were curious about her identify as she was still very beautiful. Citizens were afraid of her and boys followed her. With a crowd accompanying her she roamed on the streets and at last came near the palace. The queen mother saw her from the terrace and she immediately asked one of her attendants to bring her in her presence. When Damayanti came to her, she was captivated by her striking beauty and  she asked her whereabouts. Damayanti replied that she belonged to a good lineage and was devoted to her husband. Her husband was virtuous and loved her. However being addicted to the game of dice, he lost everything and went to forest. There he forsook her wearing a piece of her garment. She was now seeking her husband. She said all these in such a piteous way that th queen mother was full of sympathy and she asked Damayanti to stay with her. Damayanti however set certain conditions, like she would not accept any leavings of any dish, she would not wash anybody's feet and she would not speak with any other man. If any man ever cherished her he was to be punished. The queen mother heartily agreed to all these conditions and she called her daughter Sunanda who was of the same age as Damayanti to keep her as her sairindhri or companion. Damayanti was treated with respect and kindness in that royal household and Sunanda became very attached to her.

Nala who had left Damayanti, that night, while wandering in the forest saw a large conflagration and piteous cries of help coming out of it. "Fear not, " said he, and jumped into that fire to protect the person who was crying for help. He saw a large snake coiled in the midst of the fire, unable to escape. The snake told him that he was Karkotaka, the mighty serpent or Naga, who had fallen victim to a curse of celestial sage Narada and hence was unable to move. Narada told him that Nala would deliver him from that immobile condition. He therefore begged Nala to carry him out of that fire and for his sake assumed a very tiny form. He also said that he would do Nala much good. Nala took him out of the fire and placed him in a safe area. The snake then asked Nala to count his steps and proceed and as Nala did as he was told, the snake bit him on the tenth count. At once Nala's handsome form was changed to a ugly one. He became angry with Karkotaka and told him that it was not a good gesture to harm a friend who saved his life. The snake then assumed his own form and said that he did it purposefully to help Nala to hide his identity so that his enemys did not get him. Also the poison that went into Nala's body would not cause any pain to him but to the wicked Kali who had taken shelter in his body. Indeed it was very painful to Kali who suffered terribly from that poison. He was payed a fitting price for all his misdeeds. Karkotaka, the Naga, told Nala that he should go to Ayodhya and take shelter with king Rituparna, who belonged to the Ikshaku dynasty. He should tell the king that he was Vahuka, a charioteer of Nala. The king would gladly employ him and would learn the art of driving chariots from him. In return the king who was well versed with the game of dice, would make him an expert in that game, so that when time would be ripe, Nala would be able to defeat his enemies. He would also get back his wife, children and kingdom in no time and would be victorious in every battle. Nala could also regain his beautiful form whenever he wished by wearing the garment which he would give him, and by remembering Karkotaka. Having said these, Karkotaka handed over to Nala two pieces of beautiful celestial garments and disappeared.

Nala then proceeded towards Ayodhya and upon entering the kingdom, met king Rituparna and introduced himself to him as Vahuka, an expert in managing steeds and in driving chariots. He also told the king that he was a good cook and an expert in doing any task and the king would benefit greatly if he took his counsel in all matters. The king, who loved to be driven fast, as delighted and gladly employed Nala in his service. His own charioteers, Varshneya and Jivala were directed to work under the supervision of Nala. Varshneya had once worked as charioteer of Nala, but now he could not recognize this ugly person as his former master. While staying happily in their company, Nala however could not rest in peace thinking of the wretched conditions in which he had left Damayanti  and would wail for her morning and evening by saying, "where is that unfortunate lady who afflicted with hunger and thirst and worn with fatigue, still thinks of the wretch? And whom does she serve now?" As he said this verse day in and day out, Jivala, being curious wanted to know the reason behind the verse. Nala said that certain wretch, who had a beautiful wife, forsook her and left her in despair, being devoid of his senses, though she was true to him. Later, at night, being unable to bear the grife of abandoning her, he composed this sloka and now lives in perpetual despair always thinking of her. She, who had been abandoned by him, was alone in that terrible forest, afflicted by hunger and thirst and miseries and nobody knows what fate awaited her. In this manner, Nala continued to live in Ayodhya under Rituparna.

In the meanwhile king Bhima, who was anxious to know the whereabouts of his beloved daughter and illustrious son in law, employed a large number of Brahmins to search for them in towns and cities and declared a large amount of wealth for him who would be able to bring him their news. The Brahmins went looking for Nala and Damayanti everywhere but could not find them and almost all of them left searching except for one very intelligent and wise Brahmin named Sudeva. Sudeva, atlast came to Chedi and there, he instantly recognized Damayanti in company of the princess Sunanda. Sudeva then approached Damayanti  and told her all about himself. Damayanti wept out of joy by hearing about the news of her father, mother and children and seeing her friend weeping Sundanda was greatly distressed and told her mother about it. The queen mother then asked Sudeva what it was all about and Sudeva told her that the sairindhri that she employed was in reality the princess of Vidarbha and the queen of Nishadha, Damayanti. He also told her that between the eyebrows of Damayanti there existed a mole covered with dust, that would reveal her true identify. When Sunanda washed that area, the mole was revealed and the queen mother was besides herself with joy by knowing the identity of Damayanti . She embraced her and said that Damayanti 's mother was her sister and they both were daughters of king Sudaman of Dasarna. She knew Damayanti from birth and now that she knew her true identity she had everything to give to her. Sunanda was very happy by knowing that her beloved companion was actually her cousin sister. Damayanti  then told the queen mother that she was very happy to live with her and now that her father had sent for her, she wished to return to Viddarbha to her children and father and mother and she asked for her permission to make arrangements for her journey home. At this, the queen mother was delighted and made excellent provisions for the journey, provided her with many people as guards and plenty of food and drink and beautiful garments and jewels. At last Damayanti  reached Vidarbha and there she was given a joyous welcome by the inhabitants and she was glad to be amongst her children and Bhima and the queen.

However after resting a while she became very sad on account of Nala. The queen mother seeing her unhappy over the separation from Nala, went to king Bhima and told the king to search for Nala. The king once again sent for the Brahmins and when the Brahmins appeared before Damayanti she told them that in every place that they would go they must cry out aloud in this manner - "Oh gambler, forsaking your beloved and cutting her garment in half and leaving her in that dreadful forest, where did you go? Why did you forsake her when it is the husband's duty to protect his wife? Left alone she grieves for you and is terribly despondent." Then she told them that whoever responded to the above message, they should reveal nothing to him, but would bring the present condition and whereabout of that person to Damayanti. Thus addressed, the Brahmins went out to search for Nala in every possible places, in cities, towns, villages, forests, hermitages, but could not get any news of him and returned disheartened. However one Brahmin among them, called Parnada, did not give up hope and searched further. At last, he came to Ayodhya and when he was reciting the instructions of Damayanti in the assembly of king Rituparna, Vahuka, met him privately and told him that a chaste woman should not be angry with her husband who had faced a calamity and was therefore compelled to forsake her out of delusion. If that husband cut her garment on account of his clothes being stolen by birds, the chaste woman should never harbour any ill feeling. She should be compassionate about her husband who had met with misfortune, even if he treated her cruelly by leaving her in danger in a forest, knowing very well that her chastity would be her protector. The Brahmin was delighted and he speedily came back to Vidarbha to tell Damayanti. He told Damayanti that Vahuka was an ugly looking man with small arms and was adroit in driving chariots and in cooking, and was employed with king Rituparna. Damayanti knew at once in her heart that Vahuka was none other than Nala, but still she wanted to be sure. She therefore employed the service of Sudeva, the most intelligent Brahmin who had found her, to go to Ayodhya and tell king Rituparna about an impending Swayamvara of Damayanti in which she would choose another husband as she was not sure if Nala was alive. Sudeva would tell Rituparna that he was invited to the Swayamvara. This she did without even informing her father, so that Bhima knew nothing about it. She also told Sudeva to tell the king of Ayodhya that the ceremony would take place the day after he would meet the king, so that the king had very little time to come for the Swayamvara.

Sudeva went post haste to Ayodhya and told unto the king whatever he had been instructed to tell. The king, delighted at the prospect of marrying the most beautiful damsel, called Vahuka and told him to mobilize his best horses as he intended to go to Vidarbha in one day, to attend the Swayamvara of Damayanti. Vahuka, on hearing this news was extremely crestfallen and thought that Damayanti was very angry with him and therefore decided to marry again. However he also thought that it is possible for Damayanti to conceive a plan in order to find Nala. He therefore wanted to go there to verify for himself the real intention behind this Swayamvara. He told king Rituparna that he would be able to drive him in a day. Saying thus, he accompanied with the king, came to the stable to select the steeds that would carry the king, and chose four extremely lean and weak horses with auspicious marks. The king angrily said to Vahuka, "Oh Vahuka, why do you jest with me, knowing that we would have to reach there by tomorrow? These horses being so weak, are certainly not fit for the job." Vahuka told the king that he was certain that these were the very horses that would be fit for the purpose as they bore certain auspicious marks. They would fly the king in no time. Having said that, he yoked those horses to the chariot and when the king sat on the chariot the four horses, being unable to bear his weight, fell on the ground on their knees.  The king was getting impatient when Vahuka comforted the horses in such a manner that they soon became energetic and at once began to rise skywards with the chariot, with Vahuka at the helm and Varshneya as his assitant. The king was amazed to see such a feat. Varshneya, by seeing this feat which could be performed only by his master began to cherish a hope that the Vahuka might be none other than his erstwhile master Nala who was so well versed in the science of horses.

Vahuka drove with such a speed that villages, cities, towns, forests and other lanscapes were just speedying away in seconds. King Rituparna's upper garment was blown away by wind and when the king requested Vahuka to turn the chariot to fetch his garment, the latter replied that it was impossible because by then the garment was hundreds of miles away. Rituparna was astounded by this infromation. But soon he felt a bit jealous and decided to show off his skills to Vahuka. He therefore told Vahuka that it was impossible for everybody to be perfect with everything. Rituparna was a master of arithmetic. He said, "Vahuka, can you see that Bibhitaka tree yonder. I can tell you exactly the number of leaves and fruits on the two branches of the tree." Saying this, he told the number of fruits and leaves and Vahuka wanted to verify the veracity of this information. He therefore told the king to wait a while, while he would fell the tree and count the leaves and fruits. Rituparna was alarmed at the prospect of getting delayed and told him that there was no need as time was short. But Vahuka was adamant. He wanted to check if what Rituparna was telling was right or wrong and assured the king that he would still reach him safely within the same day to Vidarbha, so he had nothing to worry. Rituparna atlast gave in reluctantly, saying that he would give Vahuka anything that he desired if he would drive him within the stipulated time. Vahuka in the meanwhile fell the tree and counted a sample set of the leaves and could understand that the numbers Rituparna was quoting were right. Now it was his turn to get amazed and he requested Rituparna to teach him the science of arithmetic. Rituparna said that he would also teach him the science behind dice (probablity theory?), so that he could always win a game of dice. Only he would have to teach him the science of horses in return. To this Vahuka wholeheartedly agree and when they had finished teaching each other the resp. sciences, Kali, who was having an extremely painful existence in the body of Nala on account of the curse of Damayanti and the poison of Karkotaka, came out of his body, vomiting and looking extremely weak and emaciated. Vahuka or Nala at once wanted to curse him in wrath, but Kali begged him to be merciful as he had already suffered terribly for his misdeeds. He also told Vahuka that henceforth anybody who would recite the story of Nala, would be free from Kali's influence and would live in prosperity and joy. All this time Kali was invisible to the others and after leaving Nala he went to reside in the Bibhitaka tree. All others simply saw that the Bibhitaka tree got withered suddenly and wondered by this sudden change. Abandoned by Kali, Nala now regained his former self of virtue, nobility and might, although his outer appearance remained unchanged.

Atlast Rituparna arrived in Vidarbha. The chariot entered the city with rattle and din that was characteristics of Nala's chariot, so everybody including Damayanti wondered as to whether Nala had entered the city. The horses and elephants who had come from Nishada along with Indrasen and Indrasena, responded with glee to the sound of their Lord. Damayanti became anxious and saw from her roof of her palace as to who were the ones that had come. She saw Vahuka, king Rituparna and Varshneya, but did not see Nala. She thought perhaps Vershneya had learnt the art of driving chariot from Nala. Or perhaps it was king Rituparna who was as adroit as Nala. Thus cogitating, she sent one of her maids Kesini, to Vahuka to enquire after him. She was deeply agitated in mind and thought that if she could not meet Nala today she would rather die than live a life without him.

On entering the city Rituparna found that everything was very quiet and calm and there was no signs of an impending celebration like swayamvara. He did not see the Brahmins, nor any festoons or arches, nor anybody talking about swayamvara. King Bhima himself came out to greet him and Rituparna saw that Bhima was genuinely surprised as he did not expect his visit. Bhima asked Rituparna the purpose of his visit. Rituparna was intelligent enough to know that there was something wrong. He therefore said that he had come to pay his respect to king Bhima. Bhima was very shrewd. He realized that Rituparna did not travel over hundreds of miles merely to pay him respect but there were some other reasons behind his visit. However he said to Rituparna, "You are tired, therefore you must take rest now. We'll meet tomorrow." Thus dismissed, Rituparna went to his quarters in the palace aaccompanied by royal servants. Vahuka found himself a place in the stable and stayed in a corner of the chariot.

Kesini arrived to the place where Vahuka was and asked him about his companions. Vahuka replied that Vershneya was the charioteer of Nala and after he brought Nala's children safely to Vidarbha, he left to find service with king Rituparna. At this Kesini asked him whether he knew the whereabouts of Nala. Vahuka replied that only Nala knew where he was and nobody else knew. Kesini then asked him as to when Parnada, the Brahmin had repeatedly said the words in the assembly of Rituparna, "Oh gambler, forsaking your beloved and cutting her garment in half and leaving her in that dreadful forest, where did you go? Why did you forsake her when it is the husband's duty to protect his wife? Left alone she grieves for you and is terribly despondent", what did Vahuka say in response? Vahuka said that he replied that a chaste woman should not be angry with her husband who had faced a calamity and was therefore compelled to forsake her out of delusion. If that husband cut her garment on account of his clothes being stolen by birds, the chaste woman should never harbour any ill feeling. She should be compassionate about her husband who had met with misfortune, even if he treated her cruelly by leaving her in danger in a forest, knowing very well that her chastity would be her protector. While saying these words, Nala was filled with grief and could not restrain his tears.

Kesini went back to Damayanti and reported her everything. She was very grief stricken by hearing the words of Vahuka and knew him to be none other than Nala. She therefore asked Kesini to go back and watch what Vahuka did and report to her everything. She said that whatever skills Vahuka displayed must be noted and whenever he asked for water Kesini must not provide the same. Kesini saw everything and came back and reported to Damayanti the miracles that she saw. Whenever Vahuka went anywhere, he never stooped down but the passages themselves increased in height to accommodate him. When he went through a narrow passage the passage widened to make way for him. He never had to ask for water. Whenever he looked at the vessels which needed to fill up they got filled up themselves. He never lit a fire and when he used to cook he simply had to take some grasses in the sun and they started burning. Flowers did not wither or crumble in his hand but simply became more fragrant and beautiful.

Hearing all this Damayanti knew that she had found Nala. She then sent Kesini once more to bring her some meat cooked by Nala for Rituparna. When Kesini brought the meat, she tasted it and knew it to be the cooking of Nala. She then sent her won children Indrasen and Indrasena, the twins to Vahuka, with Kesini. Vahuka, on seeing the twins, made them sit on his lap and began to shed profuse tears of grief. Then recovering from that state, he told Kesini that these children reminded him of his own twins and that was why he lost control on seeing them.

Damayanti now knew him to be none other than Nala, only his outward form remained a mystery to her. But she decided to unravel it herself and told her mother to grant her permission either for her to go to the stable and meet Vahuka or bring him into the palace. The queen mother consulted the king and told him everything about her daughter's suspicion. The king heartily accepted the plan and so Vahuka was brought to the palace to meet Damayanti. Damayanti, on seeing Vahuka, told him, "Oh Vahuka, can you tell me, why the virtuous Nala, knowing all his duties and having taken the marital vow of looking after me, deserted me in that secluded and terrible forest? Him who I chose over Gods deserted his faultless wife who was the mother of his children, when she was asleep worn by fatigue. What mistake did I commit to get such a treatment in the hands of the most virtuous of men?" And Damayanti broke down while saying this. Thus addressed, Vahuka said with tearful eyes, "Afflicted by Kali I had lost my kingdom and it was he who caused me to leave you. Cursed by you, that wicked got his due and burned with terrible pain and finally left me. Now I have regained my senses. I have come here only on account of you. However should a chaste woman ever want to marry a second time? King Rituparna have come here to obtain your hands in marriage as you are supposed to perform a swayamvara again." At this Damayanti folded her hands and begged the pardon of her husband saying that she just enacted the deception and drama in order to get Nala back. Therefore he must forgive her. Except Nala, nobody could have brought Rituparna in the course of a day from Ayodhya to Vidarbha. She said that all the Gods were witness to her chastity and devotion. Nala, then remembered the garment given by Karkotaka, wore it and changed his form to re appear again as the noble, virtuous, courageous and handsome form that he had before Kali possessed him. It was a moment of great joy for Damayanti and her children and the passed the night happily discussing whatever happened to them after they parted. In the morning the queen mother heard everything that had passed between Nala and Damayanti and informed Bhima. Bhima, in great joy received Nala with pomp and grandeur. The whole province rapturousl celebrated the event of return of Nala and citizens sang and danced on the streets. All the streets and temples were adorned with flowers. Nala duly revered his in laws and offered his unconditional loyalty to them.

When Rituparna heard everything he was extremely embarassed to find that he employed the great king Nala in his service as a petty charioteer. He begged Nala for foregiveness for his transgressions. Nala in return also begged his forgiveness if he had done anything  to displease Rituparna. Nala said that he was very happy under Rituparna and even when he was king he had a good relationship with king of Ayodhya. Therefore they would remain friends forever. He then imparted the science of horses to Rituparna, who in turn provided him with the science of dice and returned to his kingdom employing another charioteer.

Nala, after spending some time in the company of his in laws in happiness, returned to his kingdom. The subjects rejoiced on his arrival. Wicked Pushkar, who had heard the news, thought that Nala had come back with more riches and that he would be able to win over them as well. Therefore when Nala went to him and invited him for a game of dice, the fool was very happy. He said that this time he would be able to get Damayanti. At this impertinence Nala was extremely angry, but he restrained himself and they started playing. With no Kali to help him, Pushkar, on the first roll of dice lost everything that he had. Only his life remained at the mercy of Nala. Nala, the virtuous and magnanimous told him that though he had wronged him on an earlier occasion, Nala was not angry with him because he knew that Pushkar did every wicked deed under the influence of Kali. To Nala he would ever remain as his dear brother and therefore Nala, was not only giving him back his life, but also whatever he rightfully possessed, i.e. a portion of the kingdom and the riches inherited by him. At this display of generosity  Pushkar was very penitent and he tearfully begged forgiveness from his brother for all his transgressions. Nala embraced him and payed him due respect and he happily returned to his own abode and never again ventured against Nala. All the people were happy and Nala then sent for his wife and children to be brought back. He thus regained his kingdom, reigned over his loyal subjects, performed many sacrifices and lived happily.