The Humble Brāhmaṇa from Porbandar
In a modest village near the western shores of Bhārata, lived a poor but contented brāhmaṇa named Sudāmā. Though materially impoverished, he was rich in spiritual knowledge, Vedic learning, and devotion to Lord Kṛṣṇa. His wife, a virtuous and gentle woman, served him with simplicity and sincerity, even though their home often lacked food.
Sudāmā and Kṛṣṇa had once studied together in the āśrama of Sāndīpani Muni, where they shared not only knowledge but a deep, eternal bond of friendship.
Years passed, and while Kṛṣṇa became the king of Dvārakā, Sudāmā remained a humble brāhmaṇa, immersed in the Lord’s glories.
A Wife’s Plea and Sudāmā’s Reluctance
One day, seeing her husband growing frail and worn, Sudāmā’s wife spoke gently:
“My lord, your childhood friend Kṛṣṇa is now the king of Dvārakā. He is the shelter of the world. He would never ignore a friend like you. Please visit Him—not to ask for wealth, but just to see His lotus face.”
At first, Sudāmā hesitated. How could he go to Kṛṣṇa with empty hands? Finally, he agreed, and his wife tied together a handful of chipped rice, the only food they had, as a token of love.
Sudāmā’s Arrival in Dvārakā
When Sudāmā arrived at the grand city of Dvārakā, filled with golden palaces and flowing rivers, he was awestruck. But the real wonder was Kṛṣṇa’s response.
As soon as the Lord heard that His dear friend Sudāmā had arrived, He ran barefoot from His throne, embraced him tightly, and washed his feet with tears and fragrant water.
The queens of Dvārakā, including Rukmiṇī-devī, witnessed this rare moment—the Lord of the universe humbling Himself before a poor brāhmaṇa.
Sudāmā, overwhelmed with love, could barely speak. He did not ask for anything, nor did Kṛṣṇa mention his poverty. Instead, they reminisced about their youth in the forest, eating grains, fetching firewood, and chanting mantras.
The Chipped Rice and Kṛṣṇa’s Divine Joy
Sudāmā shyly presented the handful of chipped rice, wrapped in cloth. Kṛṣṇa’s eyes lit up with delight. He took one grain and declared:
“This is the tastiest rice I have ever received!”
As He reached for a second grain, Goddess Lakṣmī appeared and stopped Him, saying:
“One grain is enough to bless Sudāmā with the wealth of three worlds!”
Sudāmā’s Return and the Miracle
Without asking for anything, Sudāmā returned to his village. On the way, he marveled at the joy in his heart. But upon arrival, he found his hut transformed into a celestial mansion, his wife dressed in silks, and his home adorned with servants and riches.
Tears streamed from his eyes.
“I asked for nothing, yet He gave me everything—just because of love.”
Sudāmā remained humble, using all his wealth for charity, dharma, and worship, never forgetting the dust of Kṛṣṇa’s feet.
Lessons to Be Learned:
- True friendship with the Lord is never forgotten, no matter one’s status or possessions.
- Bhakti (devotion), even in the form of chipped rice, pleases the Lord more than jewels.
- The Lord does not see what is given, but the love with which it is offered.
- Humility and remembrance are more powerful than any material request.
- The Lord may not immediately fulfill desires, but He always protects and elevates His devotees.
Origin of the Story: Harivamsa Purana 4 – Chapters 12–14: Sudāmā’s Visit to Dvārakā and Kṛṣṇa’s Loving Reception
