Prince Siddhartha’s affection for Princess Yashodara was genuine and fulfilling, immersing him in the bliss of an ideal marriage. Their temperaments harmonized seamlessly, and the royal couple reveled in a life of opulence and joy.

The swift passage of time brought Prince Siddhartha to the age of 29, a fully matured man. King Suddhodana found solace in observing his son’s thirteen years of marital bliss, convinced that Siddhartha was indeed devoted to a secular life.

As King Suddhodana’s confidence in Siddhartha’s commitment grew, he urged his son to participate more in royal council hearings. This exposed Prince Siddhartha to the happenings beyond the palace walls, sparking his natural curiosity. Having never ventured beyond the royal compound, Siddhartha approached his father, expressing a desire to tour the Shakyan Kingdom. He argued that a king could not govern without firsthand knowledge of his realm.

Although King Suddhodana acquiesced to Siddhartha’s request, concerns over the prophesied fate lingered. He mandated a controlled royal inspection, with guards as escorts along a predetermined route, ensuring only the pleasant and affluent neighbourhood of Kapilavastu be toured.

On the day of the inspection, the opulent houses were adorned with celebrations, the streets immaculate, and well-groomed citizens lined the sidewalks to welcome their crown prince. However, an unforeseen incident disrupted the meticulously planned spectacle. Amid the festivities, a family neglected their senile grandfather, who, like a child, played in the garden, oblivious to decorum.

This sight disturbed Siddhartha and he questioned his loyal charioteer, Channa, about the elderly man’s peculiar behavior. Channa explained the man’s aged mind had rendered him unaware of his actions.

The revelation shocked Siddhartha. Despite witnessing King Suddhodana’s aging, he never conceived that someone could deteriorate to such a state. Siddhartha inquired if he and King Suddhodana could succumb to such aging too.

Channa reassured him that old age affects everyone, causing a decline in appearance, physique, and even mental faculties. Siddhartha could not reconcile with the idea that this inevitable fate awaited his loved ones.

Overwhelmed, Siddhartha’s enthusiasm for the trip waned, and he commanded Channa to return to the palace. Learning of Siddhartha’s discontent, King Suddhodana doubled the guards and entertainment, hoping to distract his son.

Points for discussion

Aging is an inevitable part of humanity. Most of us avoid contemplating it from such a perspective. We tend to approach aging by trying our best to delay it. For example, anti-wrinkle cream, hair dye and even surgery. Discuss ways of approaching aging. Is there a more holistic way?

May all be well and happy.