KING NANDA AND

VARARUCHI
Heres another great story from the
Panchatantra.
A long time ago, there lived a brave,
strong and powerful king named
Nanda. He was respected by the
kings of neighbouring kingdoms and
his fame was widespread.
There was a minister called Vararuchi
in King Nandas court. He was a
learned man, an expert politician and
a Sanskrit scholar.
One day, Vararuchis wife was very
annoyed with him. Vararuchi loved
his wife dearly and wanted to please
her. He asked, My dear, whats the

matter? Why are you angry with me?

I will do anything to make you happy.
Vararuchis wife replied flippantly,
Really? If you really want to make
me happy, shave your head and fall
at my feet.
Vararuchi did exactly as his wife
desired. She was happy and they
were on normal terms again.
The same day, King Nandas wife
was also angry with her husband for
some reason. King Nanda, too, was
very attached to his wife and wanted
to keep her happy. He said, Tell me
what I can do to make you happy,
dear.

King Nandas wife replied, I want to

put reins in your mouth and ride you
like a horse. You will have to neigh
like a horse too.
The king did exactly what the queen
wanted. The queen was happy and
things became normal between them.
The next day, when Vararuchi went to
meet the king in his court, the king
saw his bald head and said
laughingly, Why have you shaved off
your head all of a sudden, Vararuchi?
What is the reason for that.
Vararuchi replied, My Lord, it is the
same reason for which you neighed
like a horse yesterday.
The king was left speechless.

It is true that one can do anything for

the person who is dearest to one.