012. GOVINDA

Summary

• Siddhartha approaches the river he crossed long ago, hoping to find the ferryman who had guided him then.
• He admires the river's secrets and reflects on its nature, before his hunger drives him up the path to seek sustenance.
• He finds the ferryman, Vasudeva, who is amazed to see such an elegant man traveling on foot. They discuss life and eventually, Siddhartha offers his clothes in exchange for ferrying and an apprenticeship with Vasudeva.
• Recognizing Siddhartha from their past meeting, Vasudeva accepts his offer and takes him as a guest into his hut.
• Siddhartha begins to learn from, and love, the river under Vasudeva's guidance. The passage of time is not detailed, but indicated to be substantial.
• Kamala, a courtesan Siddhartha once knew, embarks on a pilgrimage with her son to see the dying Buddha, Siddhartha’s old teacher, Gotama. However, she is bitten by a snake near the river and is brought, fatally ill, to Vasudeva's hut by Siddhartha, who recognizes both her and their son.
• Kamala recognizes Siddhartha just before she dies, and Siddhartha is filled with sorrow yet also happiness, as it seems that she too has achieved an understanding of life.
• Vasudeva and Siddhartha prepare Kamala's body for funeral.