Once upon a time
Vikram and the Betaal Promise
Vikram-Betaal · retold for families
About 5 min read aloud · For grown-ups and children together
King Vikramaditya promised a sage he would carry a corpse from the cremation ground — no matter what it said.
The corpse held the spirit Betaal, who told a riddle story each walk and flew back if Vikram spoke.
Again and again Vikram climbed the dark hill, listening, answering only when he must, never breaking his vow.
Betaal finally rested, impressed. “Kingship is heavy,” he said, “but promise kept is heavier still.”
Children feel brave in blankets — keep small promises tomorrow too.
Classic tale retold by IRA Creations for screen-free bedtime. After the story, try a quiet craft — our painting kits or free colouring sheets.