As we are aware, Sage Narada is a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, continuously chanting ‘Narayana! Narayana!’ throughout the day. His unwavering dedication to the divine is evident as the name Narayana effortlessly flows from his lips, regardless of time or place.
Believing himself to be the foremost devotee of Lord Vishnu, Narada sought confirmation from the Lord himself. With the name of Narayana on his tongue, he embarked on a journey to Vaikuntha, the celestial abode of Vishnu.
Upon arriving, Narada humbly bowed before Lord Vishnu and sought clarity on the matter. Vishnu, in response, directed Narada to a humble hamlet where a farmer named Thirumalai resided, whom Vishnu considered his devout follower.
Curious and eager, Narada visited the farmer’s hut. Despite the late hour, the farmer warmly welcomed Narada, offering him food and the best accommodations available. Throughout the night, Narada observed the farmer’s devotion, noting his bedtime prayer of ‘Narayana! Narayana!’
The following day, Narada continued to observe the farmer, witnessing his morning prayer to Vishnu before commencing his daily chores. Despite his busy schedule, the farmer never faltered in his devotion, uttering the name of Narayana without fail.
Upon his return to Vaikuntha, Narada expressed his confusion to Vishnu, questioning how the farmer, who prayed only twice a day, could be considered a devout devotee. In response, Vishnu presented Narada with a cup filled to the brim with oil, instructing him to circumambulate Vaikuntha without spilling a drop.
Focused solely on the task at hand, Narada completed the task without once uttering the name of Vishnu. Vishnu then questioned Narada on his lack of prayer during the task, emphasizing that the farmer, despite his worldly responsibilities, never failed to offer his devotion twice daily.
Enlightened by Vishnu’s demonstration, Narada realized the depth of the farmer’s devotion and the lesson it held. He understood that true devotion transcends grand gestures and rituals, recognizing that duty itself is a form of worship. From then on, Narada learned to appreciate the sincerity of devotion, even amidst life’s mundane tasks and responsibilities.