Harishchandra: The Truthful King

Your decisions shape the legacy of truth in a kingdom tested by fate. Harishchandra, bound by his word and dharma, walks the path of sacrifice where every choice demands unimaginable cost. Can virtue survive suffering?

Harishchandra: The Truthful King

Your decisions shape the legacy of truth in a kingdom tested by fate. Harishchandra, bound by his word and dharma, walks the path of sacrifice where every choice demands unimaginable cost. Can virtue survive suffering?

I stand at the edge of the burning ghat, ashes clinging to my bare feet, the stench of fire thick in my throat. Just days ago, I ruled Ayodhya with honor. Now, I am a guardian of corpses, paid to light pyres for the dead.

My wife Taramati was taken by the temple priest after I could not pay the fee. My son Rohita—we were separated at auction. I don’t know if they’re alive.

A man arrives, demanding burial rites for his father. He offers coins, then insults me when I ask for the standard fee. 'You? A king once? You’re nothing but a shudra now,' he sneers.

I look at the body. Then at him. 'The price remains,' I say. 'Truth does not change with station.'

He raises a hand to strike me. Do I defend myself? Or endure the blow, holding fast to my vow?