Priest Cheats Raman

As a young man, Raman longed to win a place in the royal court of King Krishnadevaraya at Vijayanagaram. He dreamed of serving the king and making his name known, and nothing—not even the responsibilities of a young family—would deter him.

Around that time the court priest, Tathacharya, visited the Kali temple at Mangalagiri near Tenali. Raman decided to win the priest’s favour, for Tathacharya’s word carried great weight with the king. If the priest recommended him, the palace door would open.

Raman offered his service and stayed with the priest, helping him faithfully with daily chores. He even read aloud a long poem he had written called Lingapurana. Tathacharya heard the verses and privately admired the poet’s talent—but envy also stirred in him. If Raman became famous at court, the priest’s own prestige might be eclipsed.

When the time came for Tathacharya to return to Vijayanagaram, he wept crocodile tears, praised Raman’s devotion, and promised, “As soon as I reach the palace I will send for you. Come when my messenger arrives and I will arrange everything.” Raman, full of hope, bade him farewell and waited.

Days passed, then weeks—no messenger came. Growing anxious, Raman finally took his wife and child and set off for Vijayanagaram to claim the post he had been promised. He went straight to the priest’s house and made himself known to the usher: “I am Raman from Tenali. I served your master at Mangalagiri. I have come to see him about the palace post.”

Inside, Tathacharya pretended not to know him. The usher returned with the priest’s curt reply: “I don’t know any Raman from Tenali. I will not see him.” Stung and bewildered, Raman pushed into the house. He stood before the priest and reminded him of the promise.

Tathacharya, ashamed that his falsehood was exposed, reacted angrily. He ordered his servants to throw Raman out and have him beaten. Humiliated and hurt, Raman left with a heavy heart—but not without resolve. “He has cheated me,” Raman thought. “I will not forget this. One day I will teach him a lesson.”

Moral: Beware flattering promises—the praise of the self-interested can be a trap. Trust actions, not empty words.