According to Nalopakhyana, despite his virtues, Nala falls victim to a curse from the malicious deity Kali, who influences him to lose his kingdom in a game of dice against his brother Pushkara.

Wandering in disguise under the name Bahuka after being transformed by a serpent’s bite, Nala takes service as a charioteer in the court of King Rituparna of Ayodhya, where he acquires new skills in gambling and horsemanship.

Their eventual reunion leads to Nala reclaiming his true identity, allowing him to challenge Pushkara in a new game and restore his kingdom.

The 12th-century poet Sriharsha composed Naishadhiya Charita, an epic based on Nala’s tale, which is considered one of the five great Sanskrit mahakavyas.

[3] Nala is born to Virasena, the king of Nishada Kingdom, and grows up into a handsome youth, renowned for his righteousness, exceptional charioteering skills, and devotion to dharma.

Pleased with their love, the gods bestow blessings upon Nala: Agni promises to aid him whenever called, Yama grants him unwavering righteousness, Varuna ensures he will never lack water, and Indra guarantees him moksha (liberation) upon completing a sacrifice.

After twelve years, Kali finds an opening when Nala fails to wash his feet before performing his evening prayers.

Manipulated by Kali and Dvapara, Nala suffers continuous losses, eventually forfeiting his kingdom, wealth, and status.

When he attempts to catch golden birds for food, they fly away with his last piece of clothing, revealing themselves to be the dice that had caused his ruin.

Each evening, he recites verses lamenting a man who has lost everything, arousing the curiosity of his fellow servants, particularly Jivala and Varsneya.

She instructs a Brahmin to inform Rituparna that she will hold a second svayamvara the following day, knowing that only Nala can drive a chariot fast enough to reach Vidarbha within that time.

As expected, Rituparna, eager to win Damayanti’s hand, orders Bahuka to drive him to Vidarbha with great speed.

During the journey, Rituparna demonstrates his ability to count the leaves on a tree at a glance, showcasing his mastery of Akshahridaya (the art of gambling).

She notes several supernatural qualities: Remembering that Nala was an exceptional cook, Damayanti requests food prepared by Bahuka.

[3] The story has also been adapted into the 12th century text Nishadha Charita, one of the five mahakavyas (great epic poems) in the canon of Sanskrit literature, where few additional plot details are invented.