KUPTI and Imani, a Punjabi tale

# The Tale of Kupti and Imani

**The story of Kupti and Imani highlights the themes of independence, perseverance, and the consequences of jealousy.**

## The Royal Daughters

In a kingdom, a king had two daughters, *Kupti*, the elder, and *Imani*, the younger. While Kupti was content to rely on her father's guidance, Imani expressed a desire to forge her own path. In response to Imani's bold declaration, the king decided to teach her a lesson by sending her to live with a poor, old fakir, believing she would learn the value of reliance on others.

## Imani's Resourcefulness

Upon arriving at the fakir's humble abode, Imani quickly took charge of her situation. She asked for a spinning wheel and a loom, using her small savings to buy oil and flax. Through her hard work, she spun and wove exquisite cloth, which she sold for a handsome profit. Over time, her efforts transformed their lives, allowing them to build a beautiful home and gain wealth, earning the king's admiration for her ingenuity.

## The King's Quest for Patience

When the king traveled to a distant land, he sought gifts for his daughters. Kupti requested a ruby necklace, while Imani, busy with her work, responded with a single word: "Patience." The king, confused, sent a messenger to find this elusive quality. The messenger learned of a king named Subbar Khan, who possessed a magical fan that could summon him with three strokes. This fan was meant to grant patience, but it was not something that could be bought.

## The Jealousy of Kupti

As Imani and the fakir enjoyed their newfound friendship with King Subbar Khan, Kupti grew envious of her sister's success and the king's attention. She devised a malicious plan to poison Subbar Khan by spreading glass under the sheets in his room. Unbeknownst to her, this treachery would lead to dire consequences.

## The King's Illness

After being poisoned, King Subbar Khan fell gravely ill, and despite the best efforts of physicians, no one could diagnose his condition. Imani, sensing something was wrong, disguised herself as a young fakir and journeyed to Dûr to investigate. She learned of the king's plight from two monkeys, who revealed the source of his illness.

## The Cure and Recognition

Imani gathered healing berries and, upon reaching the palace, offered her services as a healer. Her treatment proved effective, and the king recovered. In gratitude, he wished to reward her, but Imani asked only for his signet ring and handkerchief. Upon returning home, she revealed her true identity to Subbar Khan, who realized her worth and proposed marriage.

## Conclusion

The tale of Kupti and Imani teaches us that *true strength lies in self-reliance and resilience*. It also serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of jealousy and the importance of kindness and ingenuity in overcoming adversity. Ultimately, Imani's journey leads to her happiness and fulfillment, illustrating the power of determination and integrity.