Previously: In the heart of a bustling fair, Dhruvdev used a unique experiment to settle the debate of 'Fate vs. Hard Work,' showing how a precious ring lay unnoticed in the dust. Following this philosophical realization, the two friends continue their journey and arrive at 'Manvapur,' a city celebrated for its exquisite silk. Here, they are set to encounter an arrogant scholar who cannot be defeated by mere bookish knowledge. Now, the story continues...
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"The Interesting Challenge of Manvapur"
Disguised as ordinary citizens and adopting the pseudonyms 'Jivandas Singh' and 'Muhbola Singh,' Kumar and Dhruvdev reached the magnificent city of Manvapur in the kingdom of Souvirnagar. The city was renowned for its thriving silk trade. As they wandered through the vibrant markets, the two friends witnessed the grueling labor and artistic passion of the craftsmen from up close. They meticulously documented the weavers' grievances, intending to present them to the Maharaja in the future.
At night, they sought shelter at a rest house known for its hospitality and fine food. As they sat for dinner, Kumar instinctively began to inspect his plate with practiced precision—much like a head royal taster auditing the palace kitchen. Sensing the slip, Dhruvdev nudged Kumar’s foot under the table and whispered, "Brother Jivandas! You won't find gold plates here, nor a soldier to test the sweets for poison. Just enjoy this simple meal of lentils and rice, or people will mistake us for beings from another world instead of travelers!"
One man was saying, "I warned you, Sarman Ji! Don't cross him. Anyone who has dared to bet against him has been humbled. Now face the music—a loss of a hundred gold coins just like that!"
Another man burst into a boisterous laugh, "What happened, Sarman Ji? Did you get cleaned out too?" A ripple of amusement spread through the room.
This exchange piqued the curiosity of both friends. Kumar gave Dhruvdev a meaningful look. In such situations, Dhruvdev usually steered the conversation to ensure Kumar’s distinct royal poise didn't give them away. A master of wit and disguise, Dhruvdev knew exactly how to blend in. He had cautioned Kumar before: "You are a soul of noble simplicity; if you slip and reveal your true self, we’ll be forced to flee before our time. So, let me handle the 'talking business'." Kumar had laughed and given his silent consent.
Dhruvdev leaned toward a man sitting nearby and said, "Greetings, brother! I am 'Muhbola,' and this is my elder brother 'Jivandas.' We’ve been in Manvapur for a couple of days."
A man named Deenbandhu replied warmly, "Greetings! Are you here for any specific work?"
Muhbola (Dhruvdev) gestured with animated ease, "Yes, brother! A sister’s wedding is coming up in the family, and we came to buy sarees as gifts. Truth be told, the silk here is so divine it's like wearing the waves of the Ganges! But I’ve heard the weavers are struggling; is that true?"
Deenbandhu sighed deeply, "You’ve heard right. The craft is sky-high, but the hearth stays cold. The middlemen walk away with the cream, leaving the weavers with nothing but thread. Anyway, have you explored the city? You must visit the Durgabari Temple for the Goddess’s blessings. Right there, you’ll also find the magnificent temple and 'Anandbag' garden built by our King, Maharaja Sukarmaditya. It’s a place of pure bliss! Seth Dharampal Ji collaborated with the Maharaja to build the lake and guesthouses. You’ll find sandalwood carvings from Chandangarh there that will make your heart dance. No traveler leaves Manvapur without seeing it."
Since they had already visited the garden, Dhruvdev (as Muhbola) replied, "Yes brother, we saw it; it is truly a sanctuary. Our shopping went well too; we’ve already sent the goods home with the servants. We just stayed back to see a bit more of the city. But tell me, what is this talk of winning and losing? Who is this man defeating everyone?"
Lowering his voice, Deenbandhu said, "Oh brother, don't even ask! A scholar named 'Sheetlaprasad' has arrived from who-knows-where. Man! His command over languages is uncanny—Sanskrit, Awadhi, Magadhi—the words flow like a mountain stream! He wears a heavy gold bracelet and challenges everyone: 'Identify my mother tongue and this bracelet is yours; fail, and you owe me a hundred gold coins.'"
Deenbandhu added, "He’s a walking dictionary, brother! But he is hard-hearted and arrogant. When someone loses, he mocks them saying, 'Licking books doesn't grant wisdom; it should run through your veins.' Even poor Sarman Ji lost today. He told him to go back and learn his alphabets before challenging him again!"
Hearing this, a familiar glint appeared in Dhruvdev’s eyes. Kumar knew that his friend’s sharp intellect was being 'tickled.' The arrogant Sheetlaprasad's next challenge was now awaiting Dhruvdev.
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In the next: Can bookish knowledge ever defeat the 'truth' that flows through the veins of experience? Behind the shimmer of silk in the markets of Manvapur lies a challenge where only a true master of languages will win the golden bracelet—or lose a hundred gold coins! Let’s see how Dhruvdev’s sharp wit tackles this arrogant scholar's pride...
Read the next episode here:
https://meetu2nishabd.blogspot.com/2026/04/suvarana-saga-episode-8.html
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