The Divine Swayamvara
Damayantī was a princess of unmatched beauty and devotion. She chose King Nala, a righteous monarch, over even the gods. Though the devas disguised themselves as Nala, her pure heart recognized the real one.
Kali’s Revenge and Nala’s Fall
Kali, envious, entered Nala’s heart, leading him to gamble away his kingdom. He abandoned Damayantī in the forest, overcome by shame.
Nala suffered terribly, even taking on a deformed form. But Damayantī remained devoted and eventually discovered him. With the help of sages, Kali was expelled, and Nala regained his true form and kingdom.
Lessons to Be Learned
1. Attachment to Gambling is a Gateway to Ruin
The Bhāgavatam (1.17.38) lists gambling as a product of Kali. Nala’s ruin came not from lack of virtue, but indulgence in a forbidden vice. A devotee must strictly avoid such traps.
2. Devotion Never Abandons Its Object
Damayantī’s love was not based on comfort or royalty. Her fidelity mirrors the soul’s longing for the Lord — constant, even in the wilderness of suffering.
3. Patience and Repentance Bring Restoration
Though Nala erred, he never became envious of God. His remorse and austerities allowed him to be purified. Similarly, Kṛṣṇa purifies those who turn back with genuine repentance.
