Princess Savitri, the daughter of King Ashvapati, was as wise as she was beautiful. She chose to marry Satyavan, an exiled prince living as a woodcutter in the forest. Although the celestial sage Narada warned her that Satyavan was destined to die in exactly one year, Savitri remained steadfast in her choice. For a year, she lived a simple life of devotion. On the predicted day of his death, she followed Satyavan into the deep woods. When Satyavan suddenly collapsed and breathed his last, Yama, the Lord of Death, appeared to carry his soul away. Savitri followed Yama, refusing to turn back despite his warnings. Impressed by her persistence and her eloquent discourse on dharma, Yama offered her three boons, excluding the life of her husband. She first asked for her father-in-law's sight and kingdom, then for a hundred sons for her father. Finally, she asked for a hundred sons for herself. To fulfill the blessing of her being a mother, Yama realized he had to return Satyavan to life. Defeated by her wit and devotion, Yama released Satyavan’s soul, restoring him to life and health.
The power of unwavering devotion, combined with intelligence and virtue, can overcome even the most formidable destiny.
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Questions about this story
What is the moral of The Story of Savitri and Satyavan?
The moral is that love, persistence, and presence of mind can triumph over fate. Savitri's devotion and her ability to trick Death himself show that character and wisdom are more powerful than any prophecy.
Who is Savitri in Hindu mythology?
Savitri is a legendary princess and the daughter of King Ashvapati. She is revered as the epitome of the 'Sati' or the ideal devoted wife, celebrated for her intelligence and spiritual strength.
How did Savitri trick Yama?
She asked for the boon of having a hundred sons. Since she was a devoted wife who would never remarry, Yama realized he could only fulfill this blessing by bringing her husband, Satyavan, back to life.
What is the significance of the Banyan tree in this story?
Satyavan died while cutting wood near a Banyan tree, and Savitri performed her penance there. This led to the tradition of Vat Purnima, where women pray to Banyan trees for their husbands' longevity.
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