HARICHAND Hari Chand was praised for his generosity. Without the Guru, he could not comprehend the Indiscriminating Lord. The Lord Himself causes one to err and also instructs him. (Gauri M. l, p. 224) That Hari Chand, the king and master of the world, did not comprehend the Writ of the Lord. If he had known the demerit of generosity, then why could he sell himself in the market? (Prabbati M. l, p. 1344) The king Harish Chandra (generally known as Hari Chand) was the twenty-eighth king of the solar dynasty; and son of Trishanku.
His capital was Patna. He was famous for his generosity and truthfulness. He had to face great odds because of his righteousness and remaining steadfast to his words. Once his preceptor Vishwamitra got angry with him and in his absence completed the ceremonies of his sacrificial feast through another Brahmin. Because of this, Vishwamitra wanted to punish him.
Since the king was a great donor and true to his words, Vishwamitra through a stratagem, got all his kingdom and property in charity. In this state of destitution, he left his kingdom with his queen and son. Vishwamitra still persisted that the gift was not yet completed. For this the king had to sell himself, his wife and son. He himself had to perform the duties of a Chandala in a graveyard.
The queen became the sweepress in the house of a Brahmin. Her son Rohit was bitten by a snake and she took it to the cemetery for cremation, where she recognised her husband as a Chandala. Both of them resolved to die upon the funeral pyre of their son. Then the gods appeared on the scene along with Vishwamitra and the period of oppression ended.
Rohit was then made the successor and the king and queen departed to heaven along with their subjects and tne city. Narada induced Harish Chandra to boast his merits, whereupon, because of the ego the city began its downward course, which was arrested on the repentance by the king. It is said t-h-at till today the kingand his followers dwell in an aerial city\’ which according to the tradition is still visible occasionally in mid-air.
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Harichand in Hindu Mythology: The King of Truth
Harichand, also known as Harishchandra, is celebrated in Hindu mythology as the epitome of truth, integrity, and self-sacrifice. Revered for his unwavering commitment to dharma (righteousness), Harichand’s tale is a timeless story of moral courage, spiritual strength, and redemption. His legend is prominently featured in ancient texts like the Markandeya Purana, Mahabharata, and Aitareya Brahmana, inspiring generations to live by principles of truth and justice.
The Story of Harichand
- A Test of Truth: Harichand’s story begins with his reputation as a just and virtuous king. His honesty and adherence to truth catch the attention of Sage Vishwamitra, who decides to test the king’s resolve. Vishwamitra requests a massive donation, and to fulfill this promise, Harichand relinquishes his kingdom, wealth, and possessions.
- Exile and Humiliation: Stripped of his royal status, Harichand, along with his wife Taramati and son Rohitashva, faces exile. Reduced to a life of poverty, they endure great suffering, but Harichand refuses to compromise his principles.
- Servitude and Struggles: Harichand sells himself into servitude to keep his word. His wife and son also face hardships, further testing his determination and faith. Despite overwhelming adversity, Harichand remains steadfast in his commitment to truth.
- Divine Intervention and Redemption: Moved by Harichand’s unwavering adherence to dharma, the gods eventually intervene to restore his honor. His trials and sacrifices are rewarded, and he is reunited with his family. His story exemplifies the triumph of righteousness and the divine grace that follows truth. Symbolism and Lessons
Harichand’s life is a powerful allegory for living a life of integrity and devotion. His story teaches:
- The Power of Truth: Truth is not merely a virtue but a path to spiritual liberation.
- Humility and Sacrifice: True greatness lies in the ability to uphold one’s principles, even at great personal cost.
- Faith in Dharma: Faith in righteousness ensures divine support and ultimate redemption. Cultural and Spiritual Legacy
Harichand is venerated in Hindu culture as a symbol of truth and moral courage. His story inspires rituals, plays, and folk traditions, especially in regions like Gujarat and Maharashtra. The tale of Harichand continues to resonate as a universal message of ethical living.
