Five Grains of Rice
Summary
Dhanya, a prosperous merchant of Tamralipti, decides to test the prudence of his four daughters‑in‑law. He entrusts each of them with five grains of rice and instructs them to use the grains for the benefit of the household. Ujjhikā carelessly throws the grains away; Bhogavatī cooks and eats them; Raksikā dutifully preserves them in a safe box; Rohinī considers how to multiply the resource. She sows the grains in fertile soil, tends the plants and harvests a bagful of rice. When Dhanya asks for the grains, the first three daughters‑in‑law offer excuses or the untouched grains, while Rohinī produces sacks of rice. Impressed by her foresight and industry, Dhanya praises Rohinī and entrusts her with management of the family property. The fable illustrates that wise use of small resources can yield abundant results, whereas wastefulness and mere preservation lead to stagnation. Through this simple test the story conveys a lesson on thrift, initiative and responsibility.
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Conclusion
Dhanya’s experiment reveals the true nature of his daughters‑in‑law. Only Rohinī demonstrates foresight by planting the grains and multiplying them. The story teaches that even the smallest assets can become plentiful when used wisely and that those who show initiative and stewardship earn trust and responsibility.