What Causes Misery?
Long ago, in the prosperous village of Akshaypura, there lived a merchant named Dharmapal with his wife, Sulakshana. They had five sons and were known as an honest and religious couple. Every morning, Dharmapal made the generous gift of a gold coin to a needy person, a practice he maintained for years.
The Change in Tradition
Then, his eldest son married, and the new daughter-in-law questioned, “Mother! Why does father waste a gold coin every day? Won’t a silver coin do?” Under her persistent suggestion, Dharmapal changed his practice and began giving silver coins instead of gold.
A Shift to Copper Coins
A year later, when the second son was married, the new daughter-in-law grumbled, “Why give away silver every day when a copper coin would suffice?” In an effort to keep peace, Dharmapal began distributing copper coins from that point onward.
The Decline Continues
Not long after, his third son was married, and the new daughter-in-law quickly raised an objection. “Father is not aware of the changing world. It’s pointless to show that we are rich. If you must give, give nothing but lead coins!” Feeling the pressure, Dharmapal quietly switched to distributing lead coins.
The Final Straw
As time passed, Dharmapal’s wealth diminished. His sons became lazy, and his daughters-in-law spent their days dressing lavishly. The wealth he had accumulated was almost exhausted. Then came the fourth daughter-in-law, who objected to giving any coins at all. “Lead coins are still money. Why waste it on idle people? Father-in-law should preserve what he has for our children’s future,” she insisted.
The Departure
Despite his frustrations, Dharmapal continued his charitable practice until the arrival of the fifth daughter-in-law. When she too began to nag about his habit, Dharmapal and Sulakshana decided to leave home, claiming they were going on a pilgrimage. As soon as they departed, the true condition of the household became evident. The sons, unaccustomed to work, struggled to support their growing families.
A New Beginning
Dharmapal and Sulakshana traveled a long distance and settled on the bank of the river Saryu, near a forest. Dharmapal, who was knowledgeable in Ayurveda, discovered that the forest was filled with valuable resources. Meanwhile, a leader from their former village faced a dilemma while contemplating the rocky terrain that surrounded them. As the community gathered for a meeting, the leader, inspired by a vision from the goddess, motivated them to build an impressive temple. They worked tirelessly, collecting stones and building houses, transforming their environment.
Restoration and Renewal
As their efforts came together, not a single stray stone remained. The area blossomed with green grass and vegetables, and their difficulties faded away. The villagers, now content, worshipped the goddess with devotion, grateful for the renewed sense of purpose and community they had forged together.
