19. Roots Forgotten, Values Lost

There once lived an orthodox Brahmana who had devoted his life to the study of the Vedas, Shastras, and other sacred scriptures. He diligently performed his daily rituals with unwavering discipline and sincerity. Beyond his spiritual pursuits, he was also a devoted husband and a loving father, deeply committed to his family’s well-being.

Understanding his son’s aspirations, the Brahmana supported him in pursuing a secular education. With his father’s encouragement, the young man eventually became a successful professional, establishing his practice at home and meeting clients in his office there.

One day, as the son was engaged in discussions with a group of affluent clients, his father, having just completed his daily rituals, entered the hall. As was his routine, he quietly sat in a corner, absorbed in his scriptures, clad in a simple dhoti with sacred ash adorning his body. The son, however, felt a surge of embarrassment. “What will my clients think?”, he wondered anxiously.

Noticing the elderly Brahmana sitting humbly in the corner, one of the clients curiously inquired, “Who is this gentleman?” The son hesitated, torn between truth and pride. Then, in an attempt to downplay the situation, he replied casually, “Oh, him? He is just a priest who comes here for the daily puja.”

The father, overhearing his son’s words, was stunned. He could hardly believe his ears. Rising from his seat, he walked up to the client and, pointing at his son, declared with quiet dignity:

“Do you know who this young man is? He is this priest’s only son!” A heavy silence filled the room.

Never be ashamed of your roots. True success lies in honouring those who shaped you, for humility and gratitude define one’s true character. Progress and professional success should never come at the cost of one’s roots, values, and Dharma. ❃❃❃❃