Sri Krishna And Sudama
Lord Sri Krishna and Sudama were close friends from the time of their education at sage Saandipani’s ashram. Sudama, also known as Kuchela, was born in a Brahmin family. Krishna was from a royal family. They went back to their natives after completing their education. Krishna became the king of Dwaraka. Sudama remained a humble man experiencing extreme poverty.
Sudama did not have enough money even to feed even his children. One day Sudama’s wife suggested him to visit his close friend Krishna for help. Sudama did not like the idea. He felt shy about seeking help from his friend. He said, “How can I ask my friend for help? I’m not comfortable doing so.” But his wife convinced him to meet Krishna as there is no other way to overcome his situation. So, Sudama decided to meet Krishna. It is a common practice to carry some fruits or sweets while visiting near and dear. But Sudama was in such poverty that he did not have anything except for some poha(rice flakes). So he packed some poha in a piece of cloth and went to Dwarka to meet Krishna.
Sudama meets Sri Krishna
Krishna’s palace was magnificent. He was sitting on a beautiful precious stone cladded throne surrounded by many servants. The moment Sri Krishna saw Sudama, he rushed down, offered his respects and washed his feet. Krishna then made Sudama sit on his throne.
Krishna is the supreme being, knows everything. He asked Sudama, “What did you bring for me? Come on! Give it to me.” Krishna can understand his devotees love and affection. He takes even small offerings by his devotees which are offered with love and affection. Krishna knew that Sudama was so guilty in offering poha. “How I can offer this poha to a great king like you?” asked Sudama innocently. But Krishna grabbed the poha packing and started eating with great love. Sudama was ecstatic that his childhood friend still cared for him. He was so immersed in that joy of being with his dearest friend. He completely forgot the reason for his visit and did not ask Krishna for any help. Even Krishna didn’t enquire about his friend’s financial well-being.
Krishna blessing Sudama with riches
Sudama thanked Krishna for his hospitality and left the palace. When Sudama returned home, he saw a magnificent building in the place of his old hut. The new building was bestowed with all the riches that one could imagine. His wife was very happy. All of this was possible only because of the blessings given by Krishna to a true devotee. That is why Lord Sri Krishna is fondly called “Bhaktavatsala”, meaning “One Who Uplifts His Devotees”.