In the Kingdom of Pupphavati near Benares, good Prince Canda-Kumara served his father, King Ekaraja, as viceroy, and became known throughout the realm for his patience and fairness in solving disputes. In those days, the chief court Brahmin, named Khandahala, had the ear of the king in all matters, both spiritual and temporal. This was unfortunate for the kingdom in general and Prince Canda in particular, because Khandahala was an unprincipled priest. An agent for the forces of evil, he had contrived to be appointed a judge, though he was in no way fair or honest, and was bent on destroying Prince Canda. The prince was the Brahmin's natural foe, for Canda was in fact the Bodhisatta and supported the powers of good in the world.