This is a story of a boy
who demonstrated to the world what an aspirant could achieve in life if he has faith and
respect in his master and pursues his efforts. There are some that boast that they belong
to distinguished families that they are taught by 'so-and-so'. The hero of our story
should open the eyes of such arrogant men.
This ideal disciple is Ekalavya.
Ekalavya was a jungle-boy. Belonging to the hunters' community, he was a bold child. It
was a time when such communities were considered socially inferior. But Ekalavya, by his
actions and behavior, showed that one's inferior or superior status lies not in,
whichcommunity one belongs to but in one's vision and qualities of heart.
Ekalavya resided in a small, charming forest, with his mother. They were leading a
modest, contented life. His father Hiranyadhanu who was the chieftain there strove to
bring up Ekalavya as a brave boy embodying good and noble qualities. But he passed away
while the son was still a young boy. An ardent follower of the king, he died in a battle.
Ekalavya then became the chief of the forest.