Tenali Rama's Death

One day, Tenali Rama was bitten by a snake. Knowing that his end was near, he sent a messenger to call the emperor. But the emperor did not take the messenger seriously as he thought Rama was trying to fool him. As a result, the emperor was not present when Rama breathed his last.

Upon learning that his dear friend was indeed no more, the emperor was devastated. "O Rama," he lamented. "You amused me so many times. I thought this was another of your pranks; otherwise, I would've come to your side at once. Now you have left me all alone and heartbroken."

Rama's death upset not just the emperor but the whole kingdom.