Five; Harischandra, Sibi Summary and Analysis

Harischandra: Harischandra's troubles begin when the two great sages, Vasishta and Viswamitra, begin discussing his merit. Vasishta claims that there were few to rival the great King Harischandra in any of the worlds, above or below. Viswamitra, ever Vasishta's rival and always ready to challenge him, scoffs at this claim, swearing that he will cause Harischandra to back out of his promises and reveal his true character. So, Viswamitra lays in the path of Harischandra a woman named Siddhi, who he encounters one day while making the rounds of his capitol. He notices her because of her extreme grief, and she explains to him that Viswamitra is attempting to conquer her through severe meditation. Harischandra is moved by her plight, and vows to help her, as is his kingly way. He finds Viswamitra deep in meditation, awakens...