Johann Veraguth, a wealthy, successful artist, is estranged from his wife and stifled by the unhappy union. Veraguths love for his young son and his fear of drifting rootlessly keep him bound within the walls of his opulent estate, Rosshalde. Yet, when he is shaken by an unexpected tragedy, Veraguth finally finds the courage to leave the desolate safety of Rosshalde and travels to India to discover himself anew.