Vikram and betal: story books for kids: story books for children: children story books: children stories: story books ABOUT VIKRAM AND BETAL The legendary king Vikramaditya (Vikrama) promises a Vamachari (a tantric sorcerer) that he will capture Betaal, a celestial spirit Pishacha, celestial spirit analogous to a vampire in Western literature who hangs from a tree and inhabits and animates dead bodies. King Vikrama faces many difficulties in bringing the Betaal to the tantric. Each time Vikram tries to capture the Betaal, it tells a story that ends with a riddle. If Vikrama cannot answer the question correctly, the vampire consents to remain in captivity. If the king knows the answer but still keeps quiet, then his head shall burst into thousand pieces. And if King Vikrama answers the question correctly, the vampire would escape and return to his tree. He knows the answer to every question; therefore the cycle of catching and releasing the vampire continues twenty-four times. Twenty-fifth time, Vikram does not know the answer. So Betaal allows himself to be taken to the tantric. On their way to the tantric, Betaal tells his story. His parents did not have a son and a tantric blessed them with twin sons on a condition that both be educated under him. Betaal was taught everything in the world but often ill treated. Whereas his brother was taught just what was needed but always well treated. Betaal came to know that the tantric planned to give his brother back to his parents but Betaal would be sacrificed as he was an 'all-knowing kumara' and by sacrificing him the tantric could be immortal and rule the world using his tantric powers. Betaal also reveals that now the tantric's plan is to sacrifice Vikram, beheading him as he bowed in front of the goddess. The tantric could then gain control over Betaal and sacrifice his soul, thus achieving his evil ambition. Betaal suggests that the king ask the tantric how to perform his obeisance, then take advantage of that moment to behead the sorcerer himself. Vikramaditya does exactly as told by Betaal and he is blessed by Lord Indra and Devi Kali. Betaal offers the king a boon, whereupon Vikram requests that the tantric's heart and mind be cleaned of all sins and his life be restored as a good living being and that Betaal would come to the king's aid when needed. Please rate this book
