Sudama was a poor Brahmin and a childhood friend of Krishna. They had studied together under the great sage Sandipani. Despite their different paths in life, where Krishna became the divine ruler of Dwaraka, Sudama remained in poverty, living a simple life with his family.
One day, when Sudama's situation became dire due to starvation, his wife reminded him of his friendship with Krishna, suggesting that perhaps Krishna could help them. Sudama agreed but was hesitant as he had nothing worthy to offer as a gift to Krishna, who was known for his hospitality. His wife managed to gather a handful of flat rice (poha), which was the only thing they could offer. Sudama, despite feeling embarrassed by the meager gift, decided to visit Krishna.
Upon reaching Dwaraka, Sudama was awed by the opulence of Krishna's palace. He was received with great warmth, and Krishna, in his divine hospitality, personally welcomed him, ignoring the grandeur of his surroundings for the simple joy of seeing his old friend.
Krishna, in a gesture of humility and to make Sudama feel at ease, sat him on his bed and started to wash his feet, a task usually done by servants. Sudama was overwhelmed and couldn't help but think of Krishna's divine status versus his own humble state. However, Krishna, with his playful nature, asked Sudama what he had brought for him, knowing full well what it was.
Sudama, embarrassed, tried to hide the bundle of rice behind him, but Krishna, with a mischievous smile, snatched it from him and ate a few grains with great relish, commenting on how tasty it was. Sudama, feeling he had nothing more to ask, spent the night with Krishna, sharing memories and laughter, but he did not ask for any material help, feeling it would be inappropriate.
The next day, Sudama returned home, his heart full but his situation seemingly unchanged. However, as he approached his village, he was stunned to find that his humble abode had transformed into a luxurious mansion. His wife and children were now dressed in fine clothes, and all signs of poverty had vanished. Krishna had granted Sudama wealth not out of being asked, but out of love and the pure intention behind Sudama's visit.
This story from the Bhagavata Purana exemplifies Krishna's divine friendship, his ability to see through the material to the devotion in one's heart, and his playful, yet profound interaction with his devotees. The humor lies in Krishna's pretend ignorance of the gift, the exaggerated contrast between the simple offering and Krishna's opulence, and the implicit understanding and love between friends of different stations in life.
