The Tale of the Syamantak Gem

The tale of the Syamantak Gem begins with Satrajit, a nobleman of Dwarka and devout worshiper of the Sun god. One day, while travelling through a forest, he encounters a blinding light that compels him to close his eyes. Emerging from this light, the Sun god reveals himself to Satrajit, who is awestruck. As a reward for his devotion, the Sun god gifts him the Syamantak Gem, a radiant jewel that sparkles like a star and has miraculous powers, including warding off famine and creating wealth.

Back in Dwarka, Satrajit’s dazzling appearance upsets the citizens, who believe he’s brought the Sun god to earth. Krishna, Lord of Dwarka, explains that Satrajit possesses the Syamantak Gem, which brings prosperity to the kingdom by creating gold each day. Krishna suggests that Satrajit share the gem with King Ugrasena for the kingdom's benefit, but Satrajit refuses, believing he can protect it himself.

Trouble brews when Satrajit’s brother, Prasena, borrows the gem for a hunting trip but fails to return. Satrajit suspects Krishna of foul play, believing he wanted the gem. Disturbed by these suspicions, Krishna sets out to clear his name and finds Prasena’s corpse, identifying his killer as a lion. Following further clues, Krishna discovers the lion was subsequently killed by Jambavan, the legendary bear-king from the Ramayana era, who now possesses the gem.

Krishna enters Jambavan’s cave, where a fierce battle ensues for days. Eventually, Jambavan, exhausted and recognizing Krishna’s divine strength, accepts defeat. In a settlement, Jambavan offers both the Syamantak Gem and his daughter, Jambavati, in marriage to Krishna.

Krishna returns to Dwarka, presenting the gem to Satrajit, who feels deeply ashamed for having doubted him. In gratitude, Satrajit offers Krishna his daughter, Satyabhama, in marriage, but Krishna declines the gem, asking only for the gold it produces to support the kingdom.

However, Satrajit’s refusal to part with the gem breeds envy among his kin, especially Akroora, Kritavarma, and Shatadhanva, who plot against him. Shatadhanvan ultimately murders Satrajit in his sleep and steals the gem, fleeing in fear when Krishna, upon learning of the crime, vows to seek justice. Seeking refuge, Shatadhanva approaches Kritavarma and Akroora, but they refuse to aid him, fearing Krishna’s wrath.

The story of Syamantak Gem weaves themes of devotion, jealousy, and redemption, portraying Krishna’s wisdom and strength as he upholds justice and honours.