In my childhood, the tale of Savitri and Satyavan concluded with a profound lesson: her unwavering devotion enabled her to reclaim her husband from Yama, the god of death. As I matured and delved into the Mahabharata, I recognized her triumph over death sprang from her unyielding courage, resolute beliefs, and astute presence of mind.
The narrative unfolds as follows. Yama seized Satyavan’s life and began to depart towards the southern realms. However, Savitri remained composed, refraining from fainting, crying, screaming, or engaging in a struggle. With gentleness, she laid Satyavan’s head on her lap and stood to confront Yama directly.
Savitri pursued Yama and initiated a dialogue by establishing a rapport as equals. She articulated, “Tradition deems seven steps sufficient to forge a bond of friendship. I’ve traversed more than that with you, and hence, as a friend, I have something to convey.” Yama was captivated, and through this camaraderie, Savitri emphasized the essence of righteousness.
Yama’s admiration grew. He granted her a boon with the condition, “Seek anything but the restoration of Satyavan’s life.” Savitri beseeched the restoration of her father-in-law’s health and sight. Nonetheless, she persisted in following Yama, undeterred by his advice to desist. In response, Yama gently remarked, “You shall grow weary, return now.” Savitri affirmed her enduring commitment, for she walked alongside her husband, extolling the value of virtuous companionship, the merit of Satsang – an association with the truth. This conveyed her reverence for their company. Yama was once again impressed, and she requested the reclamation of her father-in-law’s lost kingdom. Granted the boon, Yama counseled, “Cease your efforts. Do not exert yourself further.”
Having forged a friendship and extolled the virtues of Satsang, Savitri now expounded upon those who constitute such righteous companionship. Drawing upon Yama’s earlier advice to turn back, she expressed, “Your responsibility is to command and guide all creatures. You are called Yama due to this role. I believe our foremost duty is to refrain from causing harm in thought, word, or deed, and instead, embrace a life of universal love. Some lack devotion, while the virtuous protect even their adversaries.” In her gentle counsel, she subtly guided his conduct. Yama acknowledged her wisdom and granted a boon for her father to sire a hundred sons.
Savitri addressed Yama as an entity possessing an impartial disposition. Despite his role in taking lives, she portrayed him as benevolent, instilling confidence in people. Yama granted another boon, adhering to the same stipulation. She requested a hundred sons. Yama acquiesced. Savitri proceeded to praise the virtuous, and once more, Yama granted her a boon. However, Savitri asserted, “The fourth boon cannot materialize without my husband Satyavan.” Not once did she plead for Satyavan’s life. Her poise compelled its return to her. Yama restored Satyavan to her, enabling her to bear a hundred sons. These sons came to be known as the progeny of Savitri, a testament to her fearlessness, strategic acumen, persistence, and triumphant spirit.
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