The Legendary Tales of Singhasan Battisi

Singhasan Battisi and Newal Kishore Press: A Timeless Legacy of Wisdom and Virtue

Singhasan Battisi, one of the most celebrated collections of Indian folklore, tells the fascinating tales of King Vikramaditya and the magical throne that carried his legend through generations. Comprising thirty-two tales of courage, wisdom, and righteousness, this classic work of Sanskrit literature presents timeless moral lessons wrapped in the grandeur of Indian storytelling.

The narrative revolves around a magnificent throne adorned with thirty-two divine figurines, each containing a story of King Vikramaditya’s extraordinary virtues. When a just ruler named King Bhoja discovers this legendary throne, he is challenged by these celestial figurines. Each figurine narrates a tale, asking whether he possesses the same wisdom and integrity as Vikramaditya. Only after hearing all thirty-two tales does Bhoja realize the true depth of Vikramaditya’s greatness.

Over centuries, Singhasan Battisi was translated into multiple languages and adapted into folk traditions, influencing generations of readers. Its publication by Newal Kishore Press ensured that this treasure of Indian heritage reached a wider audience and remained accessible for years to come.

Newal Kishore Press: Preserving India's Literary Heritage

Founded in 1858 in Lucknow, Newal Kishore Press played an instrumental role in preserving and promoting classical Indian literature. Established by Munshi Newal Kishore, the press became renowned for publishing texts in Sanskrit, Hindi, Persian, and Urdu, bridging the gap between oral traditions and written records.

By publishing classics like Singhasan Battisi in Hindi and Urdu, Newal Kishore Press brought these legendary tales to a broader audience, ensuring they were not just the domain of scholars but available to common readers. The press not only preserved folklore but also reinforced the moral and ethical values enshrined in Indian storytelling.

Without the meticulous efforts of Newal Kishore Press, works like Singhasan Battisi may have remained confined to history, rather than continuing to inspire readers with their wisdom and virtue.

The Magical Throne and the Test of Virtue

King Bhoja, an esteemed ruler, discovers a hidden throne buried beneath his palace. Intrigued by its grandeur, he learns that it once belonged to King Vikramaditya, the legendary ruler known for his wisdom and justice. As Bhoja prepares to ascend the throne, thirty-two celestial figurines emerge, halting his steps. Each figurine tells a tale of Vikramaditya’s greatness, posing a challenge—"Are you truly worthy of sitting upon this throne?"

Through these thirty-two enthralling tales, Bhoja embarks on a journey of introspection, learning what it truly means to be a just and noble king. Each story presents moral dilemmas, tests of wisdom, and the selfless service that defined Vikramaditya’s reign.

Let’s explore some of these remarkable tales:

1. The Just Decision: The Case of the Two Mothers

In a kingdom ruled by Vikramaditya, two women approached the royal court, each claiming to be the mother of a young child. Unable to determine the truth, the courtiers were left perplexed.

Vikramaditya, renowned for his wisdom, devised a test. He ordered the child to be placed in the center of the court and instructed both women to pull him toward themselves. The real mother, unable to bear the thought of harming her child, let go, while the false claimant continued pulling.

The king immediately awarded custody of the child to the compassionate woman, proving that true motherhood is defined by love, not mere claims.

The celestial figurine asked King Bhoja, “Would you have acted with such wisdom in a moment of crisis?” Bhoja, humbled, remained silent, realizing the depth of Vikramaditya’s insight.

2. The Test of Truth: The Unwavering Sage

One day, a renowned sage visited Vikramaditya’s court, claiming to have discovered the ultimate truth of existence. To test him, the king asked the sage to swear by his wisdom in front of the divine fire.

The sage hesitated, realizing that he had not yet attained the absolute truth he had claimed. Vikramaditya, instead of punishing him, encouraged him to continue his journey toward enlightenment.

The figurine asked Bhoja, “Do you have the courage to challenge falsehood, even when it comes from revered men?” The king lowered his gaze, acknowledging the importance of wisdom beyond superficial reverence.

3. The Weight of Justice: A King’s Promise

During Vikramaditya’s reign, a merchant presented a dispute where a nobleman had promised to repay a debt but refused to honor his word. The nobleman argued that since there was no written contract, he was under no obligation to return the money.

Vikramaditya, instead of ruling solely by law, sought justice beyond technicalities. He ordered a symbolic test—the nobleman was made to sit on one side of a scale, while the merchant placed his documents and evidence on the other. When the nobleman’s side remained heavier, Vikramaditya declared, “A man’s word carries more weight than any document.”

The celestial figurine asked Bhoja, “Can you uphold justice with the same moral clarity?” Bhoja, recognizing his limitations, stepped back in contemplation.

The Timeless Influence of Singhasan Battisi

Each of the thirty-two stories in Singhasan Battisi is a lesson in integrity, humility, and justice. As King Bhoja listens to each tale, he learns that true kingship is not just about ruling a land, but about ruling one’s own heart with fairness and wisdom.

Through the meticulous efforts of Newal Kishore Press, these stories continue to inspire generations of readers, reinforcing the timeless values of righteousness, courage, and duty.

For those who seek stories of wisdom and virtue, Singhasan Battisi remains an unparalleled collection, reminding us that true leadership lies in selflessness, integrity, and wisdom beyond measure.