The Gates of Heaven (The Legend of Ponnivala [Series 1, Book 12])

"The Legend of Ponnivala" is a vast, ancient epic from the Kongu region of South India, where it is known as the "Annanmar Kathai" or "Elder Brothers' Story." It is the story of three generations of a farming family who through their exploits and the intercession of the Hindu gods rise to become kings of their region. Previously only told orally by bards in the local area, it is surprisingly accurate in its accounts of historical events, and has close ties to the Mahabharata.

In Episode 12: The King and Queen undertake a long pilgrimage and meet with many adventures. The King has to stop. The Queen reaches heaven’s gate alone.