Chapter 14 masterfully illustrates the stark contrast in Ratanji's life. Externally, he was the picture of success: a wealthy, popular, and generous merchant whose mansions were always open. However, this outward prosperity was a facade for his inner turmoil. The text uses the metaphor of 'a crocodile of a difficult inner worry' that constantly surrounded him. This worry, his lack of a son, was so pervasive that 'food and drink did not taste sweet,' and he was 'always immersed in worry.' This highlights a key theme: material wealth does not guarantee inner peace or happiness.
How does the narrative describe the contrast between Ratanji's external life and his internal state before he met Sai Baba?
📖 Chapter 14