Mârkandeya Purâna, Books VII and VIII

In a timeless realm a saintly ruler, Hariśchandra, reigns over a land untouched by famine, disease, or greed. His subjects live in youthful vigor, their hearts untainted by pride, while the king’s own compassion guides every decree. One day, while hunting, he hears a chorus of desperate voices echoing through the forest, prompting him to confront an unknown oppressor.

The cry leads to a heated exchange with the ascetic sage Viśvāmitra, who challenges the king’s notion of charity and authority. Hariśchandra, proud yet humbled, offers the sage any treasure he desires, even the whole world, sparing only his own person and family. As the sage demands the earth itself, the monarch must decide whether true righteousness lies in boundless generosity or in preserving the very kingdom he has protected.