The tale of Yayati, found in the Puranas and the Bhagavata, narrates a captivating story from ancient India. Yayati, son of the legendary Nahusha, was known for his remarkable handsomeness and righteousness, endearing him to his subjects. He belonged to the esteemed lineage of the sage Shukracharya, the renowned preceptor of the demons, comparable to Brihaspati, the teacher of the gods. Shukracharya's daughter, Devayani, was a radiant and virtuous Brahmin maiden, often considered more beautiful than any royal princess. Sharmishtha, daughter of King Vrishaparva, was a royal by birth, possessing qualities befitting her status, including a strong sense of dignity and self-respect. She was deeply committed to her self-esteem. Devayani and Sharmishtha were best friends, being of the same age and cherishing a deep bond. One day, while enjoying themselves in the royal gardens, they decided to take a dip in a nearby pond, removing their garments to frolic in the water. As they played, Parvati and Parameshwara (Lord Shiva) happened upon them, prompting the girls to hurry out and dress. In their haste, they accidentally exchanged clothes. Seeing Sharmishtha in her garments, Devayani, proud of her Brahmin heritage, was indignant. She forgot their friendship and began to scorn Sharmishtha, feeling superior in lineage and status. Angered by Devayani's arrogance, Sharmishtha, a proud Kshatriya princess, retorted with hurtful words and pushed Devayani back into the pond before storming off. It was then that Maharaja Yayati, returning from a hunt, came across Devayani, struggling in the water. Moved by her beauty, he rescued her, and they were instantly drawn to each other, expressing a mutual desire to marry. With Shukracharya's consent, the couple wed. Still upset over Sharmishtha's actions, Devayani complained to her father, Shukracharya, who was deeply hurt by her plight. In anger, he decided to leave King Vrishaparva’s kingdom, refusing to continue as the demons' preceptor unless Devayani’s grievances were settled. To appease Shukracharya, King Vrishaparva approached him, seeking forgiveness for his daughter’s transgression. Shukracharya declared he would stay only if Devayani's demands were met. Displaying a vengeful streak, Devayani insisted that Sharmishtha serve her as a maid until death. Reluctantly, King Vrishaparva agreed. To avoid bringing distress to her father, Sharmishtha accepted the condition. Vrishaparva also intended to marry Sharmishtha to Yayati. However, Devayani interjected, insisting that even if married, Sharmishtha must never seek Yayati's affection. Sharmishtha agreed, prioritizing her father’s happiness. She married Yayati under these terms. In time, Devayani bore Yayati several children. Sharmishtha, desiring motherhood, secretly united with Yayati, resulting in the birth of two sons. On learning of this, Devayani was furious and approached Shukracharya in emotional turmoil. Moved by his daughter's sorrow, the sage cursed Yayati, causing him to become old and frail. Yet, Yayati’s desire for Devayani remained unabated. Troubled by his premature old age, Yayati summoned his sons, seeking one willing to exchange their youth for his affliction. None of Devayani’s sons agreed, but Puru, Sharmishtha’s son, stepped forward with empathy and understanding. Puru embraced old age so that Yayati could regain his youth and vigor. Touched by Puru’s filial devotion, Yayati bestowed a blessing: "Your lineage shall inherit the royal throne, while the descendants of Devayani will lose their claim." This revelation granted Devayani wisdom and enlightenment. She and Yayati renounced worldly pleasures, choosing the path of spirituality, eventually receiving divine grace.