Sunday, June 7, 2026
TaralaBalu Kendra Sabhangana, R T Nagara, Bengaluru.
Angered by Damayanti's choice of a mortal over the gods, the vengeful demon Kali vowed to bring doom to their lives. After waiting 12 years for Nala to show a moment of vulnerability, Kali possessed the King, forcing him into a rigged game of dice against his deceitful brother, Pushkara. Nala gambled away his wealth, his kingdom, and his clothes. The exiled couple was forced to live in the forest, enduring immense hardship. Overwhelmed by grief and believing Damayanti would suffer less without him, a possessed Nala abandoned her while she slept, leaving her in the wilderness.

Meanwhile, Nala was bitten by a serpent KARKOTAKA to neutralize Kali's poison, which also severely disfigured and transformed him into a dwarf named Bahuka. Taking a job as a charioteer and cook in the court of King Rituparna in Ayodhya, Nala honed his skills, hoping to regain his former life.

Unwilling to believe her husband is dead, Damayanti devised a clever plan. She orchestrated a fake second swayamvara, knowing Nala would come if he heard the news. Nala accompanied King Rituparna to the event, demonstrating supernatural charioteering skills along the way that raised suspicion of his true identity.
Upon arriving, the royal couple reunited, and Damayanti recognized Nala despite his disfigured form. Nala finally revealed his true, divine-like appearance and challenged his brother, Pushkara, to a rematch of dice. Having regained his knowledge of the game, Nala won back his kingdom. The couple ruled peacefully, their story remaining a lasting symbol of dharma (righteousness), love, and unbreakable loyalty







































