Savitri and Satyavan

King Ashvapati of Madra had a daughter named Savitri. She was very wise. When she grew up, her father said, "Daughter, choose a good husband for yourself."

In a forest, Savitri met Satyavan. He was the son of King Dyumatsen. Dyumatsen had lost his eyesight and his kingdom too, so he lived with his family in a hut in the forest. Satyavan was truthful and kind, and he looked after his parents. Savitri chose him.

Then Narad Muni said, "Satyavan has every good quality, but only one year of life is left for him." But Savitri said calmly, "The one I have chosen with my heart is my husband." After the wedding, Savitri came to the forest and lovingly cared for Satyavan's parents.

When only three days were left before that day, Savitri began a vrat. On the day itself, Satyavan went to the forest to cut wood, and Savitri went with him. As he worked, Satyavan's head began to ache. He lay down with his head in Savitri's lap and fell into a deep sleep.

Just then Savitri saw a god in red clothes, shining like the sun. It was Yamraj. He said, "Satyavan's time is complete. He is so good that I have come for him myself." Taking Satyavan's life-breath with him, Yamraj walked towards the south.

Savitri followed him. Yamraj said, "Go back, daughter." Savitri replied respectfully, "Wherever my husband goes, I will go too." As she walked, she spoke such sweet and wise words about dharma and the company of good people that Yamraj's heart was filled with joy.

Yamraj said, "Ask for any boon except Satyavan's life." Savitri asked that her father-in-law's eyesight come back. Then she asked that his kingdom come back. Then, that her own father have a hundred sons. Then, that she and Satyavan have a hundred sons. Each time Yamraj said, "So be it."

At last Yamraj was so pleased that he said, "Now ask for a boon beyond compare." Savitri folded her hands and said, "Lord, how can your boon come true without Satyavan? Please give my Satyavan back." Yamraj smiled and said, "So be it. Satyavan will live a long life."

When Savitri came back, Satyavan sat up as if waking from a long sleep. The two of them returned to the hut that same night. When they got there, they found that Dyumatsen could see again. And the very next morning, people from his kingdom came to take him back as their king.