The Merchant of Sandip

Introduction to Hiradutta

Hiradutta, the prosperous merchant of Sandip, traded with islands across the sea. He was well-known for his philanthropy and compassion. The people of his land admired him greatly, and even the king held him in high regard. Hiradutta never boasted about his wealth; instead, he readily offered guidance to those new to business. Many successful merchants had flourished under his mentorship.

The Rise of Jealousy

It was no surprise that such a wealthy man with a good reputation would stir jealousy in some hearts. Virdas, a fellow merchant but far less successful, was foremost among those envious of Hiradutta. Virdas attempted to harass Hiradutta in many ways, spreading false rumors and sending messages to other merchants. However, his efforts were in vain, leading to Virdas’ disappointment.

The Grand Voyage

When Hiradutta prepared for a grand voyage to Suvarna-dwipa, loading his ship with various costly goods, Virdas grew anxious that Hiradutta would return as the richest man in the kingdom. In a wicked plot, he managed to plant some of his men among the crew. Soon after departure, these conspirators created holes in the ship, causing it to sink.

The Struggle to Recover

All aboard managed to escape in smaller boats, but the disaster devastated Hiradutta, who lost nearly half his wealth. Nevertheless, he was consoled by friends and prepared for another voyage, pooling all his resources together. However, Virdas struck again, sending his men to sink Hiradutta’s ship once more. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Hiradutta began to believe that Providence disapproved of his maritime endeavors, saying, “It is not for me to launch a ship again; if I do so, it will sink!” His health and confidence were shattered.

Help from the King

The King of Sandip, saddened by Hiradutta’s plight, offered to finance another voyage, but Hiradutta remained unenthusiastic. After the merchant’s departure, the king expressed his disappointment to his courtiers, wondering who could help revive Hiradutta’s self-confidence. They remained silent, but Somnath, the court magician, stood up and offered his assistance, which pleased the king.

Encountering False Prophecies

Meanwhile, Virdas sent a false astrologer to further demoralize Hiradutta, claiming that bad luck would persist for him. Aware of this trickery, Somnath brought the court astrologer along to assure Hiradutta that a new phase of prosperity awaited him. Although feeling slightly encouraged, Hiradutta was still resistant to the idea of venturing out to sea again.

The Magic of Somnath

Somnath insisted, “I am a magician ready to accompany you on your voyage and protect the ship with my magic.” Skeptical, Hiradutta questioned how magic could alter his fate. Somnath invited him to his home to demonstrate his abilities. When Hiradutta struggled to make a needle float in a glass of water, Somnath showed him the needle floating on a wire-net without the water being disturbed. Amazed, Hiradutta began to consider the possibility that magic could safeguard him.

Preparing for Another Journey

With newfound hope, Hiradutta prepared for another voyage, with the king discreetly financing the ship and cargo. Some of the king’s skilled detectives disguised themselves as crew members. Just a short distance from shore, Virdas’s spies attempted to sabotage the ship once again, but they were caught by the detectives, who revealed Virdas’s deceitful schemes.

Resuming Trade

Virdas’s assets were confiscated, as he was responsible for the sinking of two of Hiradutta’s ships. Realizing that his misfortunes had stemmed from human treachery, Hiradutta’s perspective changed. He took proper precautions and resumed his business, soon reclaiming his status as a great merchant once more.