Describe the state of mind of the merchant before he decided to visit Shirdi, and what prompted his journey.

Before visiting Shirdi, the merchant Ratanji was in a state of constant sorrow and anxiety. Chapter 14 explains that despite his wealth, he was consumed by the fact that he had twelve daughters but no son to be his 'support' and carry on his lineage. This single thought dominated his life, making him feel his honor was at stake. The text poignantly states that 'food and drink did not taste sweet; day and night he was uneasy and always immersed in worry.' His daily contemplation was a prayer to Narayan for a virtuous son. The turning point came when he revealed the secret of his heart to Das Ganu. As detailed in Chapter 14, Ganu expressed great faith in Sai Baba's power, telling Ratanji, 'Go to Shirdi; you will obtain your heart's desire.' This strong recommendation and the promise of fulfillment prompted Ratanji to make the resolution and undertake the journey to meet Baba.