Everyone had warned Savitri.
She had chosen Satyavan as the man she wanted to marry, but the sage Narada had revealed something terrible. Satyavan was good, wise and worthy. But he had only one year to live.
Savitri understood. And she did not change her choice.
She married Satyavan and went to live with him and his family in the forest.
The year passed. As the foretold day approached, Savitri became watchful.
When Satyavan went into the forest to gather wood, she went with him. While they were there, Satyavan suddenly felt weak. His head began to ache. He lay down with his head in Savitri's lap.
And then he became still.
Savitri remained beside him.
Soon she saw Yama, the lord associated with death, come for Satyavan. Yama took Satyavan's life and began to leave.
Savitri stood up. And followed him.
Yama told her that she had come far enough. She had done everything a devoted companion could do. She should return.
Savitri continued walking.
As they travelled, she spoke with Yama about goodness, companionship, duty and the way people should treat one another. Yama listened. He was impressed by her words and offered her a boon — a special gift — anything except Satyavan's life.
Savitri asked for something that would help her family. Yama granted it.
Then he continued on.
Savitri followed.
Again they spoke. Again Yama was impressed. Again he offered a boon. Still Savitri walked beside him.
Eventually, among the boons she received was a future in which she and Satyavan would have children. Yama granted it.
Savitri saw the opening. How could she have children with Satyavan if Satyavan remained dead? The boon could not come true without him.
Yama understood.
Savitri had not threatened him. She had not fought him. She had listened carefully, spoken wisely and never lost sight of why she was there.
Yama released Satyavan.
Savitri returned to the place where her husband's body lay. Satyavan opened his eyes.
The forest around them looked much as it had before. But Savitri had walked beside Death and returned with the person she loved.
