Based on The Faith Book by Kadamba Kanana Swami
The King of Dvārakā Enters Mathurā
The streets of Mathurā buzzed with news. “Kṛṣṇa has come! Kṛṣṇa has come!” The son of Vasudeva, the protector of the Yādus, had entered the city with His brother Balarāma. Their effulgence eclipsed the sun. Their stride was that of divine warriors, yet their smiles melted hearts.
People lined the roads to greet them. Some offered garlands, some waved lamps, others wept in joy. Even the birds seemed to sing more sweetly that day.
A Request for Clothes
As they passed through the royal quarter, Kṛṣṇa saw a washerman approaching with fine garments—robes stitched for the king, dyed in brilliant colors, fit for emperors. With childlike sweetness, Kṛṣṇa said, “O washerman, these clothes are very beautiful. Will you give some to us?”
The Pride of Position
But the washerman, puffed up with importance, frowned. “These clothes belong to Kaṁsa, the king of Mathurā. How dare you ask for them! Who are you to demand royal robes?” His voice dripped with arrogance. “You’ll be punished for even thinking such a thing!”
The Lord’s Justice
Kṛṣṇa smiled gently, then raised His hand—and with a single touch, the man fell. Life left his body. In that moment, pride was shattered, and the path was cleared for others with softer hearts.
The Simple Washerman of Devotion
Soon after, another washerman appeared. His bundle was smaller, his clothes simpler—but his heart was wide and warm. Seeing Kṛṣṇa, he bowed low. “Please accept these garments, my Lord. Though they are not royal, they are offered with devotion.”
Kṛṣṇa’s eyes glowed with affection. He accepted the offerings and blessed the man. “May your heart always remain pure. May your family be blessed for generations.” In that moment, the washerman’s humble home became more opulent than a palace.
Service with Love, Not Position
This story reveals a deep truth: The Lord does not accept service based on social rank or royal wealth. He accepts offerings made with love. The arrogant washerman guarded kingly treasures but lost his life. The simple man, with only a few garments and a surrendered heart, gained eternal favor.
A Verse to Remember
na me bhaktaḥ praṇaśyati
“My devotee never perishes.”
— Bhagavad-gītā 9.31
And also:
bhaktyā tu ananyayā śakya
aham evaṁ-vidho ’rjuna
jñātuṁ draṣṭuṁ ca tattvena
praveṣṭuṁ ca parantapa“Only by undivided devotional service can I be truly known.”
— Bhagavad-gītā 11.54
