The Ingenuity of Mridubhashini

A Merchant’s Quest

Long, long ago, there lived a merchant named Devraj in the town of Devipur. He had a son named Nagraj, whom he wished to marry off to a good girl once he came of age. Determined to find a suitable bride, Devraj embarked on a journey abroad with his family when he couldn’t find one in his hometown.

A Suitable Match

Devraj and his family eventually reached an island inhabited by the wealthy merchant Dharmagupta. His daughter, Mridubhashini was a charming girl and Devraj believed she would make an excellent bride for his son Nagraj. Despite their proposal, Dharmagupta refused due to his fear of losing his only companion in his old age to a faraway land. Mridubhashini, however, had fallen in love with Nagraj and decided to elope with them when they left the island.

Wedded Bliss and Challenges

Upon their return to Devipur, Nagraj and Mridubhashini’s wedding was celebrated grandly, and they began their happy life together. Months after the marriage, Devraj passed away, leaving the responsibility of the family business to Nagraj. Despite his wife’s reluctance due to her fear of rival women, Nagraj was keen to accompany his friends and relatives on a business trip to Burma.

Divine Intervention

To resolve this dilemma, Nagraj sought divine intervention. After three days and nights of deep meditation at Lord Siva’s temple, Nagraj was gifted two lotus flowers that would wither upon infidelity. Consoled by this, Mridubhashini finally permitted her husband to go to Burma.

Deceit and Clever Resolve

In Burma, Nagraj’s always-blooming lotus flower ignited curiosity among four friends. Once drunk, Nagraj revealed the pact between him and his wife which led these friends to put Mridubhashini’s virtue to the test. Bringing along a seductress to Devipur, they planned to dupe Mridubhashini. However, Mridubhashini outwitted them and branded them with a dog’s seal. After their failed mission, they returned to Burma with their shameful secret.

Reunions and Justice

Fearful for her husband’s safety, Mridubhashini, disguised as a merchant, set out to Burma. She revealed the identities of the culprits in the king’s court, who were humiliated upon Mridubhashini’s full account of their failed scandal. Forced to admit their bondage to Mridubhashini and pay a hefty ransom, the men were finally free. Laden with wealth, Mridubhashini and Nagraj then returned to Devipur where they lived happily ever after.

The Silent Giraffe

Contrasting the chatter of the town is the silent giraffe that compensates its lack of voice with the power of its body and strength of its kick. A full-grown giraffe, standing up to 16ft tall with a 7ft neck, can easily fend off a lion. This unique creature, although voiceless, mostly thrives in open country.