Sudama and Krishna Story – Chapter 3: Sudama's Poverty and Inspiration

Sudama's Poverty and Inspiration

After the farewell, Sudama and his wife's life became bound in domesticity. Along with teaching, Sudama was living a simple life, following the path shown by his guru. But destiny had something else in store.

The Shadow of Poverty

Sudama's hut, which was once a center of knowledge and peace, was now burdened by poverty. There were cracks in the mud walls and rainwater dripped from the roof. They didn't even have enough clothes to cover themselves properly. The children kept crying with hunger, and Sudama would explain to them to be patient. His wife, Sushila, tried her best, bringing wood from the forest, gathering a little grain, but poverty was not leaving them. Clouds of despair were looming in her eyes, yet she never gave up, never left her husband's side.

One day, when the children were crying with hunger, Sushila said to Sudama, "Swami, I can't bear to see the children's suffering anymore. I have heard that your friend Krishna is the king of Dwarka. Why don't we meet him? Maybe he can help us." Sudama became sad. "Sushila, Krishna is indeed my friend, but how can I go to him asking for something? Our dharma is in contentment."

Wife's Request and Loving Gift

Sushila did not give up. She said, "We are not asking for anything, Swami. We are just going to meet him. And how can we go empty-handed? We should take some gift." Even after searching the house, nothing was found. Finally, Sushila borrowed a little poha (flattened rice) from the neighbors. She washed it, dried it, roasted it herself, and tied it in a bundle. This gift, though small, was full of love and devotion. Tears came to Sudama's eyes. He saw his wife's affection and her devotion to Krishna.

Giving the bundle of poha to Sudama, Sushila said, "Swami, this poha is a gift from me to your friend Krishna. I believe he will accept it." Sudama took the bundle and mentally bowed to Krishna. He was a little hesitant about how he would offer these simple poha to King Krishna. However, his wife's inspiration and the children's hunger forced him to move towards Krishna.

Preparation for the Journey

Sudama decided to go to Dwarka. He explained to his wife and children, "I am going to meet Krishna. I don't know if he will help us or not, but I am optimistic. You guys be patient." Sushila wished him well, "May your path be auspicious, Swami. Lord Krishna will protect you." Sudama picked up his stick, put the bundle of poha on his shoulder, and set off towards Dwarka, with a new hope and a strong desire to see Krishna. The next chapter will tell the story of Sudama and Krishna's meeting in Dwarka.