Long ago, in ancient times, King Vikramaditya ruled over Ujjayini (modern-day Ujjain). He was an ideal ruler—brave, just, and generous. Every day, he would sit in his royal court, listen to the problems of his people, and resolve them with great wisdom and kindness.

One day, a wandering monk came to the court and offered the king a fruit. From that day onward, the monk began visiting daily, presenting a fruit to the king each time. The king, in turn, handed over the fruit to the royal treasurer without much thought. This continued for ten years.