When I was young, my father used to tell me a lot of bedtime stories, and I guess that’s how my love for stories and books grew. I have always been drawn to stories filled with mystical beings, gods, magic, and boons. One such story that has stayed with me is about how Induprabha turned into a wishing tree to protect his city from drought and famine.
So, today, I want to share this wonderful tale from the Kathasaritasagara, originally written by Somadeva Bhatta.
The Kingdom in Peril
The kingdom of Kurukshetra was blessed with fertile lands, prosperity, and a treasury that was always full. Ruled by King Malayaprabha, the people lived happily and contentedly.
But one unfortunate year, the kingdom was struck by a devastating famine. The crops failed, and families began to starve. Desperate, the people approached the king.
“Our crops have withered, and our families are going hungry,” they pleaded.
Wanting to help his people, the king considered opening the royal treasury to provide aid. However, the ministers in his court advised against it.
“There are too many poor people, Your Majesty. If you try to help them all, the treasury will soon be empty,” some of them warned.
The king was torn. He couldn’t bear to see his people suffer, yet he was unsure how to sustain the kingdom if the treasury was drained.
The Prince’s Resolve
Hearing this discussion, Prince Induprabha was deeply troubled. He couldn’t stand the thought of turning away people in need.
“But Father, you are the king—it is your duty to help the people!” Induprabha argued.
The king, frustrated and helpless, retorted, “If you think you can find a way to help them, then do it yourself!”
Determined to save his people, Induprabha set out to seek help from the gods themselves. He journeyed deep into the forest and performed intense penance, meditating with unwavering devotion. His prayers were so powerful that even the birds and animals fell silent in awe.
The Divine Gift
Moved by Induprabha’s selflessness, Lord Indra, the king of the gods, appeared before him.
“Tell me, my son, what do you seek?” Indra asked.
With folded hands, Induprabha humbly replied, “I wish to become a wishing tree so I can fulfil the needs of my people. I don’t want to see anyone suffer from hunger again.”
Lord Indra was taken aback by such a noble wish but granted it nonetheless.
In an instant, Induprabha began to transform—his feet took root in the ground, his arms stretched into branches filled with lush green leaves, and his hair blossomed into golden-yellow flowers. The gentle wind carried the scent of the flowers, and birds and butterflies began to flock to the magnificent tree.
The Wishing Tree
News of this magical tree that granted wishes spread far and wide. People from distant lands travelled to seek its blessings.
The tree cured illnesses, united families, and provided food for the hungry. Under its shade, the kingdom flourished once more. Poverty and suffering became things of the past.
A Visit from Indra
Years passed, and Lord Indra returned to see the tree. Delighted, he said, “You have fulfilled your wish, Induprabha. You have led a noble life. Come with me to heaven.”
A whispering voice floated from the tree’s branches:
“Even an ordinary tree continues to bear flowers and fruits. But I am a wishing tree—how can I leave those who need me behind?”
Impressed by his unwavering dedication, Indra made an offer. “If you wish to stay, then let me take the people of Kurukshetra with me to heaven. Soon, you will follow.”
The tree swayed gently in the wind.
“If you are pleased, then take them to heaven, my Lord. I shall remain here, rooted in my place, to help those who come seeking wishes.”
Indra, deeply moved, granted his request. He gathered the people of Kurukshetra and took them to heaven, leaving behind the legendary wishing tree—forever standing, fulfilling wishes.
Do Wishing Trees Exist?
Though no one knows exactly where this tree is today, many who have heard this story stop by large trees with yellow flowers, surrounded by birds and butterflies, to make a wish.
Do you know of a wishing tree with yellow flowers? Have you ever made a wish under one? If so, drop a comment—I would love to hear your thoughts!
Wow! such a sweet story!
Induprabha was a great prince!🥰
I didn’t know that there was something like wishing tree!😍 I really like the story! I hope in future I find it and wish for something good!🤍
Glad you liked the story, and yes do make a wish when you find a yellow flowering tree the next time 🙂