The Golden Swan’s Awe-Inspiring Journey: A Varanasi Adventure
The Magical Manasarovar
Manasarovar, which is now located in China, was once world-famous under the name ‘Thamans-Sarovar.’ The swans that resided there were more enchanting than the white clouds against the blue sky. Their melodious chirping surpassed the sound of anklets worn by graceful dancers. Among those white swans lived two golden swans as well. Both looked identical, with a slightly larger size than the other swans. They were equally virtuous and noble. The only difference was that one was a king named Dhritarashtra, and the other was his loyal general, Sumukh. Discussions about these swans often occurred among gods, serpents, yakshas, and celestial maidens. Over time, even humans came to know of their beauty and virtues.
A King’s Desire
When the King of Varanasi heard about them, a strong desire to possess these swans arose in his heart. He immediately ordered the construction of a magnificent lake resembling Manasarovar. The lake was adorned with every kind of attractive aquatic plant and various types of lotuses, such as Padma, Utpala, Kumud, Pundarika, Saugandhika, Tamara, and Kahlara. Beautiful species of fish and aquatic birds were also brought there. The king also ensured the complete safety of all birds living in the lake, allowing them to roam freely and fearlessly. Birds from far-off places began to settle in this safe and splendid haven.
Discovering a New Paradise
One year, after the monsoon season, when the Hemant (pre-winter) season began, and the sky turned a clear blue, the two golden swans from Manasarovar were flying over Varanasi. Their eyes fell upon the beautiful lake built by the king. They were instantly attracted to the lake’s beauty and the carefree joy of the birds living there. They descended to the lake and spent months enjoying its safety, beauty, and freedom. Finally, before the next monsoon season, they returned to Manasarovar. Upon their return, they spoke so highly of Varanasi’s artificial lake that all the swans of Manasarovar grew eager to visit it after the rains.
Yudhishthira’s Warning
The swan king, Dhritarashtra, and his general, Sumukh, did not approve of this plan. Dhritarashtra voiced his disapproval, stating that animals and birds express their feelings through their cries, but humans are cunning and often conceal their true intentions behind deceptive gestures.
The Journey to Varanasi
Despite this, the swan king had to give in to the persistent demands of his flock. After the rainy season, the golden swans of Manasarovar, led by Dhritarashtra and Sumukh, set out for Varanasi. When the king of Varanasi learned of the arrival of the Manasarovar swans at his lake, he assigned a hunter to capture the two special swans.
The Trap
One day, while Dhritarashtra was strolling freely along the lake’s shore, he stepped into a trap set by the hunter. Instead of worrying about his capture, Dhritarashtra called out with a loud cry, instructing his flock to immediately leave the lake. Hearing their king’s call, the entire flock vanished in an instant, leaving behind only Sumukh, the loyal and identical general. Even though Dhritarashtra ordered Sumukh to fly away, the latter firmly refused and chose to stand by his king, come what may.
A Heartfelt Loyalty
When the hunter approached and saw another swan standing fearlessly beside the one he had caught, he was astonished. Upon questioning, the second swan explained that his loyalty and devotion to his king were more important to him than his own life. Hearing this from a bird moved the hunter’s heart. Though a human, he had strayed from humanity’s virtues and followed a life of violence and killing to survive. Deeply touched, the hunter released both swans.
A Noble Decision
The two golden swans, however, were no ordinary birds. Using their foresight, they realized that the hunter would surely face the king’s wrath for letting them go. Having been granted their lives, they decided to protect the hunter’s life in return. They perched on his shoulders and instructed him to take them to the king.
The Royal Court
When the hunter entered the royal court with the two golden swans on his shoulders, the courtiers were amazed. The very swans the king had gone to such lengths to capture had come to him on their own. When the astonished king heard their story, he not only pardoned the hunter but also rewarded him. The king warmly hosted the wise golden swans and eagerly listened to their teachings in his court.
Return to Manasarovar
After spending some time enjoying the king’s hospitality, the two golden swans returned to their beloved Manasarovar.
Moral of the Story
This enchanting tale reminds us that loyalty, kindness, and courage can touch even the hardest of hearts. 🌟🦢
