Sudeep sat alone in his dimly lit apartment, the only light coming from his computer screen. He typed furiously, searching for explanations online about his recent mystical experiences. Keywords like "mystical visions," "ancient Hindu scriptures," and "altered states of consciousness" flashed across his screen. Despite the barrage of information, nothing provided a satisfactory answer. Frustration led him to call his father. Their relationship had always been strained, marked by arguments and unmet expectations.

Sudeep dialed the number he had tried to avoid for years. "Hello?" His father's voice was cautious but curious.

"Dad, I need the number of your friend who deals with mystical consciousness. I'm experiencing something strange, and he might be able to help," Sudeep said, struggling to mask his irritation.

A pause on the other end. "Sudeep, is everything alright? We haven't talked in a while. How's your work going?"

Sudeep's frustration erupted. "I don't have time for this right now. Just give me the number."

Arun's voice wavered. "Sudeep, why are you always so distant? Look at where you are now—you're doing well in tech. We made sacrifices to give you the best opportunities."

Sudeep's anger flared. "Yeah, well, maybe I wouldn't have needed to make so many sacrifices if you hadn't tried to control every aspect of my life. You pushed me into engineering, and I barely passed. It was only when I got to study abroad that I finally felt free."

He recalled the endless arguments about his future, the suffocating expectations, and how his parents had insisted that engineering was the best path despite his protests. Their rigid approach had left him feeling trapped and stifled.

"You're successful now," Arun's voice said softly. "We did what we thought was best for you."

Sudeep's voice hardened. "You don't get it. I struggled through that path, and it was only when I got the chance to study abroad that I found my true calling. It's because of that freedom that I ended up doing well in tech."

Without waiting for a response, Sudeep ended the call, feeling a mix of anger and regret. The room seemed to close in on him, and he was left alone with his turbulent thoughts.

As if on cue, the world around him began to blur. A strange pull enveloped him, and he was thrust into another realm.

Before him, the court of King Shibi came into view with breathtaking clarity. The court was a majestic expanse of opulence, adorned with towering golden pillars intricately carved with celestial motifs and mythical creatures. The floor, encrusted with precious stones, shimmered under the soft glow of countless hanging lanterns.

At the center of this magnificence stood King Shibi, a figure of regal grace and imposing authority. His elaborate robe, embroidered with gold thread and studded with jewels, flowed around him as he moved. His face reflected a mixture of resolve and compassion as he addressed two divine beings—a majestic eagle and a trembling dove.

The dove, frail and desperate, sought sanctuary with pleading eyes. The eagle, fierce and predatory, hovered menacingly above. The divine test was clear.

The atmosphere was thick with anticipation. Courtiers and nobles murmured amongst themselves, their faces a blend of awe and concern. The weight of the trial was palpable, the air electric with the gravity of the moment.

King Shibi, standing tall and unwavering, addressed the eagle. "You may take whatever you wish from me, but this dove shall not be harmed." His voice, though firm, was filled with compassion.

The eagle, driven by its hunger, demanded its due. King Shibi's face showed deep internal struggle, yet he remained steadfast. He commanded his attendants to bring forth a large ceremonial knife, its blade gleaming with an otherworldly light.

With a somber expression, Shibi rolled up his sleeve, exposing his flesh. His hand, steady and resolute, reached out towards the eagle. The court fell silent as he prepared to offer a portion of his own flesh to satisfy the eagle's hunger. The act was a profound demonstration of self-sacrifice, reflecting a deep commitment to justice and compassion.

Just as Shibi was about to make the sacrifice, a blinding light filled the court, enveloping the king and the divine beings. The eagle and the dove transformed before Sudeep's eyes, revealing their true forms as radiant deities. The light grew brighter, filling the space with a warm, divine glow.

Agni, the god of fire, and Indra, the king of the gods, revealed themselves. Agni stood with a regal presence, his flame radiating warmth and light, while Indra, holding his thunderbolt, exuded an aura of power and authority. They commended Shibi's unwavering dedication and his supreme act of selflessness.

"King Shibi," Agni spoke with a voice full of resonance and compassion, "your sacrifice has demonstrated the highest virtue of dharma—selfless love and justice. For this, we bless you and your kingdom."

The court erupted in harmonious approval. The gods' blessing revitalized Shibi's health, and a serene light bathed him, restoring him to full strength. The kingdom, once again vibrant and thriving, prospered under Shibi's just rule. The people, inspired by their king's example, lived in peace and unity, forever grateful for his unparalleled act of selflessness and majorly sacrifice.

The scene shifted seamlessly to Sudeep's own childhood. He saw his mother, Priya, beside him during a high fever. The room was dimly lit, with the soft glow of a bedside lamp casting gentle shadows. Priya's face was etched with worry and fatigue, but her touch was tender as she cooled Sudeep's feverish forehead with a damp cloth. Despite her exhaustion, her love and dedication were unwavering.

The vision expanded, revealing Priya's daily life. Scenes of her working as a maid showed her hands rough from constant labor. She was depicted washing dishes in the homes of wealthier families, her face a mask of weariness but unyielding resolve. Each day was a struggle, but her commitment to providing for her family was unshakeable.

Arun was shown working tirelessly, his face lined with stress as he negotiated loans to cover Sudeep's educational expenses. The vision captured his long hours at multiple jobs and sleepless nights.

Scenes from Sudeep's teenage years highlighted the emotional toll of their conflicts. Priya's quiet tears during their arguments illustrated the pain of the disputes. A particularly poignant moment depicted young Sudeep, feverish and weak, asking his mother if she was afraid of falling ill herself. Priya's response was filled with profound love: "A mother's love is stronger than any illness. My love will always protect you."

The vision then took a somber turn, showing a future where Sudeep repeatedly called his parent's home, only to be met with silence. The house, now empty and silent, stood in stark contrast to the vibrant life it once held. The void left by their absence was palpable, underscoring the depth of their love and sacrifices.

Amid this , a deep voice echoed:

"A mother's love is more profound than the ocean, deeper than the earth, and warmer than the sun. No matter how much a mother suffers, her love remains unshaken. She may bear hardships and trials with a smile, always prioritizing the well-being of her child above her own." (Shantiparva)

This passage highlighted the boundless and selfless nature of a mother's love, illustrating the lengths to which parents will go for their children.

Sudeep was jolted back to his apartment, his eyes brimming with tears. The intensity of the experience left him overwhelmed by the realization of his parents' sacrifices—their relentless efforts, unwavering love, and the countless hardships they had endured. With a heart full of regret and newfound appreciation, he picked up his phone and dialed his father's number.