________________
96
SHRAMAN MAHAVIR
today, sees better days in contrast to those eges We owe this escalation in human values to the austerities of Lord Mahavira.
Kakmukh appeared in the market-place where human beings were auctioned The market was crowded Hundreds awaited their fate at the hands of the bidders Bids were being rallied against each other
Vasumati was a royal princess Beauty was writ large over her person Her youth was on the verge of blossoming Such a paragon of beauty and refinement on sale I The entire market place was stunned
A bidder sought to own her But the price was too prohibitive
Business magnate Dhanawaha happened to pass along the street His eyes fell upon Vasumatı He was dumbfounded. He could see the blue-blood flowing in her veins
He was stirred with pity He parted with a fortune to own her and brought her home
Said the trader, 'Dear daughter, let me know of your identity'
Vasumatı was solemn She uttered no word The trader repeated his question She was still quiet On his third attempt she only said, 'I happen to be your slave What other description do I deserve ?' She was shedding tears profusely The trader melted He cut short his dialogue
Moola was the wife of the trader She was astonished to see the maiden Dhanawaha told her 'I bring here a daughter for you Bring her up with care, please!'
The temperament and behaviour of Vasumatı charmed the household She had stepped into the house as a 'slave and had attained a daughter's distinction on account of her virtues The fragrance of her singular modesty and the coolness of her decency won for her the name of Chandana (Sandal).
The blooming beauty of Chandana provoked envy in other young ladies Moola herself fell a prey to the mounting whirl of suspicions She doubted the veracity of the trader's
