Sudama

The tenth book of the Bhagavata Purana, gives in detail the life story of Lord Krishna -his birth, early childhood, adolescence and adulthood. The many incidents narrated are full of, adventure and romance and at the same time inspire, enlighten and guide human beings whose aim is to ennoble their lives and attain God.

The story of Sudama (a great devotee and childhood friend of Lord Krishna), which has retained its popularity with children down the ages, occurs in the same tenth book. The love of Krishna for Sudama forms the theme of many a devotional song and this story has been a source of sustenance of faith to the poor in the land.

Sudama has understood the principle of non-attachment. He lives in dire poverty, and yet is happy. His wife too is content to do the same till some children are born to them.

How Sudama's wife coaxes him to go and see Krishna, his prosperous and generous childhood friend, and what happens when Sudama does is retold in pictures in the following pages.