When death comes for her husband, a young princess follows—and wins him back with wisdom and devotion.
In ancient India, there lived a princess named Savitri whose beauty and learning were known across the land. Her parents had prayed many years for a child, and when she was born, they named her after the goddess of light.
When it was time to marry, Savitri travelled the forests and villages to find a good man herself. She found Satyavan—a woodcutter who lived in the forest with his blind father, a king in exile. Satyavan was kind, honest, and joyful. Savitri knew he was the one.
But the royal sage Narada pulled her aside. “Do not choose him,” he whispered. “He is perfect in all ways—but he will die exactly one year from today.”
Savitri raised her chin. “Then I will treasure every day of that year.”
They married and lived happily in the forest. Savitri loved her in-laws and her husband with her whole heart. The year passed like a beautiful dream.
On the last day, Savitri would not leave Satyavan’s side. Together they walked into the forest. He cut wood. He grew dizzy. He lay down. And Yama, the god of death, arrived in his golden chariot to take Satyavan’s soul.
Most people do not follow Yama. But Savitri walked after him.
“Go home,” said Yama kindly.
“Where my husband goes, I go,” said Savitri.
Yama was moved by her devotion. “I cannot give you your husband. But ask any other boon.”
“My blind father-in-law’s sight,” she said.
Yama granted it. She still followed.
“Ask another boon—anything but Satyavan’s life.”
“Restore my father-in-law’s lost kingdom.”
Granted. She still followed.
“One more boon, brave woman. Anything but—”
“Sons,” she said calmly. “I wish for sons—sons of Satyavan, my husband.”
Yama stopped walking. He turned. He realised he had promised something that could only be granted if Satyavan lived. He smiled—a rare thing for the lord of death.
“You have outwitted me with love,” he said. And he returned Satyavan’s soul.
Satyavan opened his eyes in the forest, his head in Savitri’s lap. She smiled. “Ready to go home?”
Together they walked out of the forest, back to a life that was just beginning.
Moral of the Story
True love is not just a feeling—it is a commitment. Devotion and wisdom together can overcome even the greatest obstacles.
Learn These Words
- sage
- a wise and respected person
- exile
- being forced to live away from home or country
- devotion
- deep love and loyalty
- boon
- a blessing or a wish that is granted
- outwit
- to defeat someone using cleverness
Test Your Understanding
1Why did the sage warn Savitri not to marry Satyavan?
2What did Savitri do when Yama took Satyavan?
3What was Savitri’s final wish?
4Why did Yama return Satyavan?
5What quality helped Savitri save her husband?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Savitri in the story of Savitri and the God of Death?
Savitri is a wise and devoted princess from ancient India, named after the goddess of light. Her parents prayed for years before she was born. She is celebrated for her extraordinary courage and intellect, particularly for following Yama, the God of Death, and winning back her husband Satyavan’s life through wisdom and unwavering devotion.
Why did Savitri still marry Satyavan even though he was destined to die?
Despite the sage Narada’s warning that Satyavan would die exactly one year later, Savitri chose to marry him because she recognised his kindness, honesty, and joyful nature. She believed her love and devotion were worth every moment they would share, declaring she would treasure each day of that year together.
What is the moral of the story of Savitri and the God of Death?
The story teaches that true devotion, wisdom, and courage can overcome even the greatest obstacles—including death itself. Savitri’s determination shows that love paired with intelligence is a powerful force. It also highlights the value of standing by your choices and never giving up, no matter how impossible the situation appears.
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Who is the God of Death that Savitri confronts in this Indian myth?
The God of Death in this story is Yama, a central figure in Hindu mythology who is responsible for guiding souls after death. Unlike fearsome depictions of death in other cultures, Yama is often portrayed as a just and fair deity. Savitri follows him and engages him in conversation, ultimately persuading him to return Satyavan’s life.
Is the story of Savitri and Satyavan suitable for kids?
Yes, the story of Savitri and Satyavan is an excellent tale for children. It teaches important values like courage, loyalty, and the power of wisdom in a compelling narrative. There are no graphic or frightening elements—death is portrayed respectfully, and the story ends on a hopeful, triumphant note that inspires young readers.
