Bakuladevi

Bakuladevi, a remarkable woman, shines brightly in the history of Gujarat like a radiant star. Despite being the daughter of a courtesan, she blossomed like a lotus, untouched by the surrounding mud, and emerged as a profoundly virtuous and righteous individual. Not only was she blessed with unparalleled physical beauty, but her inner radiance was equally captivating. Living a pious life, she guarded her chastity with utmost dedication, aspiring to lead a married life befitting a woman from a noble family.

Word of Bakuladevi's exceptional qualities and unblemished character reached the ears of Bhimdev, the King of Gujarat. Intrigued, he sought to test her character and purity. Bhimdev sent a marriage proposal to Bakuladevi, which she accepted. However, instead of solemnizing the marriage, Bhimdev became engrossed in warfare, planning an invasion of his arch-enemy, King Bhoj of Malwa.

Gujarat and Malwa had long been embroiled in a bitter conflict, and Bhimdev was determined to emerge victorious. The war persisted for two arduous years, culminating in Bhimdev's decisive triumph. Many doubted that a woman as alluringly lovely as Bakuladevi could maintain her chastity in the environment she lived in. However, Bakuladevi possessed exceptional strength of character. From the moment she accepted Bhimdev's marriage proposal, she considered him her spouse. Throughout the king's absence during the battle, she vowed to forgo extravagant clothing and ornaments, taking every precaution to safeguard her purity and patiently awaiting Bhimdev's return.

When Bhimdev returned triumphant from the war, he discovered that Bakuladevi had steadfastly waited for him, her character remaining spotless as ever. She had longed for his presence, sacrificing good food and luxurious comforts, which had caused her to grow frail and emaciated. Bhimdev became convinced of Bakuladevi's unwavering devotion and impeccable character, leading him to decide to marry her. However, rumors began to circulate among the people, casting doubt on Bakuladevi's background and family honor. They questioned whether a son born of such a woman could inherit the throne of Gujarat, suggesting that he would lack royal blood in his veins. Bhimdev, disregarding such malicious gossip, proclaimed, "Forget her origins as the daughter of a courtesan. Her character is pure, and she is a virtuous and righteous woman." As people recognized their folly in condemning such an honorable woman, Bakuladevi's esteem grew in their eyes. Bhimdev married her, crowning her the queen of Gujarat, and together they had a son named Kshemraj. Kshemraj's son was Devprasad, whose son was Tribhovanpal, and from him came the mighty Kumarpal.

The story of Bakuladevi reminds us that noble sentiments and virtues can flourish within individuals, regardless of their surrounding environment. Often, the opposite is assumed to be true. A person should be judged based on their noble intentions and sentiments, regardless of the unfavorable circumstances they were born into or lived in. Conversely, an individual with malicious thoughts residing in a sacred environment should be considered of lesser character. Bakuladevi, judged by her actions, thoughts, and noble character, has rightfully earned her place in history.