The story of Sri Krishna and flower seller, Sudama, of Mathura happened when Sri Krishna and Balarama were visiting Mathura for the first time on the invitation of King Kamsa. Balarama and Sri Krishna walked like lions along the streets of Mathura and people of Mathura showered flowers upon them.
Sri Krishna was fond of flowers and so he visited Sudama,
who sold garlands. He had heard the stories of Sri Krishna and was overjoyed to
see Balarama and Sri Krishna approaching his shop. He got up and prostrated
before the brothers. He seated them on pedestal and washed their feet and honored
them with garlands.
He told Sri Krishna that by his visit his life has been
blessed. Sudama made several different types of garlands and presented to the
brothers.
Sri Krishna who was pleased by the devotion and offered to
grant him a boon.
But the ardent devotee did not want anything else but
constant devotion towards Sri Krishna. He told Krishna to make him
compassionate to all living beings.
Sri Krishna was pleased with the humbleness and unparalleled
devotion of Sudama and granted him supreme devotion and place in Vaikunta.