Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c35.1216

v2.c35.1216

Vimalā, Varuṇa’s wife, hearing from her husband of Vidhura’s wisdom, is so enchanted that she yearns to see him, and in order to do so feigns illness, and says that she must have Vidhura’s heart. Varuṇa’s daughter, Irandatī, is offered to anyone who can get possession of Vidhura’s heart, and the yakkha Puṇṇaka, nephew of Vessavaṇa, who sees her and is fascinated by her beauty, accepts the condition. He obtains Vessavaṇa’s consent by a ruse and visits Dhanañjaya’s court. There he challenges the king to a game of dice, giving his name as Kaccāyana, and offers as stake his wonderful steed and all-seeing gem, provided the king will offer Vidhura as his. Dhanañjaya agrees, plays and loses. Vidhura agrees to go with Puṇṇaka; the king asks him questions regarding the householder’s life for his own guidance, and Vidhura is given three days’ leave to visit his family. Having taken leave of them, he goes with Puṇṇaka. On the way Puṇṇaka tries in vain to kill him by frightening him. When Vidhura discovers Puṇṇaka’s intention, he preaches to him as he sits on the top of the Kāḷapabbata, and the Yakkha is so moved that he offers to take Vidhura back to Indapatta. But in spite of his protestations, Vidhura insists on going on to the Nāga-world. They arrive in Varuṇa’s abode; Vidhura preaches first to Varuṇa and then to Vimalā. They are both delighted, and Puṇṇaka wins the hand of Irandatī. In his great joy Puṇṇaka gives Vidhura his marvellous jewel and takes him back to Indapatta. There Vidhura relates his adventures and gives the jewel to the king. A festival lasting one month is held in honour of Vidhura’s return.