Satyavan and Savitri

Princess Savitri was a radiant and determined woman. She chose to marry Satyavan, the son of a blind, exiled king living in poverty in the forest. Sage Narada warned her that Satyavan was destined to die exactly one year from their wedding day, but Savitri firmly stood by her choice.

She lived a simple, devoted life in the forest ashram. As the fateful day approached, she began a severe three-day fast. On the final day, she insisted on accompanying Satyavan into the forest while he chopped wood.

While working, Satyavan suddenly felt exhausted, rested his head in Savitri's lap, and died. Soon, Yama, the terrifying Lord of Death, appeared in person, extracted Satyavan's soul, and began walking toward the south.

Savitri stood up and followed Yama. Yama told her to return and perform the funeral rites, but she replied, "Where my husband goes, I follow. That is the eternal Dharma of a wife." Yama, impressed by her speech and devotion, offered her boons, on the condition she could not ask for Satyavan's life.

First, she asked for her father-in-law's eyesight and kingdom to be restored. Then she asked for a hundred sons for her own father. Finally, she asked Yama to bless her with a hundred sons of her own.

Yama gladly granted the boon. Savitri then pointed out the logical trap: she was a fiercely loyal wife; how could she have a hundred sons if her husband was dead? Trapped by his own boon and deeply moved by her brilliant wit and unshakeable love, Yama smiled, released Satyavan's soul, and blessed them with a long life.