Krishna saw him
from a distance. At once he rushed out and met Sudama at thegate. He gave him a great
welcome. He embra - ced him. He washed Sudama's feet. He took him to his room, and seated
him on a silken cot. Krishna's wife Rukmini gently fanned Sudama. The maids-in- waiting
gave him plenty of sweet food and delicious drink in golden vessels. Sudama had never seen such a beautiful palace of such riches. No one
had ever treated him so nicely before. So he did not even know how to thank Krishna for
the hospitality.
After Sudama had taken a rest, Krishna spoke to him of
their student days and about their teacher, Sandipani.
At last Krishna said to him: "Are you married? How
many children have you?" Sudama nodded his head shyly, meaning to say that he was
happy and content. |