The King Swan and His Loyalty – A Jataka Parable About Friendship and Devotion

Description: This Jataka parable tells the story of a swan king who sacrifices himself to save a friend who fell into danger. The story demonstrates the power of loyalty, friendship, and self-sacrifice.

In a distant lake surrounded by green hills, lived a king swan named Sumukha. He was known for his wisdom, strength, and kindness. Swans respected him for his fairness, and the forest animals would come to him for advice. His closest friend was another swan named Chitrasena—a cheerful and kind-hearted bird, though sometimes a bit careless.

Sumukha and Chitrasena often swam together in the lake, discussing life and sharing dreams. They were inseparable, and their friendship was an example to all. But one day, an event tested their loyalty.

At that time, hunters seeking rare birds heard about the beautiful swans at this lake. One of them decided to set a trap. He placed nets near the shore and hid, waiting for his prey.

Early in the morning, Chitrasena, being curious, was the first to notice something shiny by the shore. "Look, Sumukha, there's something interesting over there!" he exclaimed. But the king swan, foreseeing danger, replied, "Be careful, my friend. Not everything that glitters is safe."

However, Chitrasena, despite the warning, flew closer and got caught in the net. He began to struggle, but with each movement, the net tightened further. Hearing his friend's cry, Sumukha rushed to his aid. He saw the hunter approaching with his catch.

"Run, Sumukha!" cried Chitrasena. "You must not perish for my sake!"

But the king swan could not leave his friend. He stood before the hunter and said, "Hunter, I am the king of these lands. If you wish to catch a swan, take me. Release my friend, and I will surrender without a fight."

The hunter, moved by the swan king's bravery and words, paused. "Are you willing to sacrifice yourself for your friend?" he asked.

"Yes," replied Sumukha firmly. "My friend's life is more valuable to me than my own."

The hunter was touched by the king swan's loyalty. He thought, "If even animals can be so faithful and selfless, what about humans? Perhaps I should learn kindness from them."

Instead of taking anyone, the hunter released Chitrasena and removed the net. "You are free," he said. "You have taught me an important lesson: true strength lies in loyalty and kindness."

Sumukha and Chitrasena returned to their lake. Chitrasena, filled with gratitude, said, "You not only saved my life but also showed me what true friendship means. I will never forget your sacrifice."

From that day on, the king swan became even more respected among the forest inhabitants. His story spread far beyond the lake, inspiring both humans and animals to be kind and faithful.

Moral: True friendship and loyalty are revealed in difficult situations. A genuine friend is willing to help even at the cost of their own life, and self-sacrifice for the sake of others is always rewarded.

Questions for Kids:

• Why did Chitrasena fall into the trap?
• How did Sumukha show his loyalty?
• What lesson does this parable teach us?