cast her looks poorly towards her husband. And beholding her Ten-necked
husband slain by Rama of inconcievable actions Mandodari bewailed there
piteously,--"O thou of huge arms! O younger brother of Baishravana! Even
Purandara feared to stand before thee when enraged. The great
Rishis--the far-famed Gandharbas and the _Charanas_, fled away to
different quarters in thy fear. And then (how) hast thou been
overpowered in battle by Rama who is a mere man? Why is it that thou art
not ashamed of it, O king, O lord of the Rakshasas? Conquering the three
worlds with thy prowess thou didst attain thy glory; and it is
unbearable, that a man, ranging in the forest, hath slain thee. Thou,
who art capable of assuming shapes at will, hast been slain in conflict
by Rama, in the city of Lanka unapproachable by men. I do not believe
that thy destruction,--who hadst always been crowned with success,
before the forces, is work of Rama. (Methinks) Death (himself) came
there in the shape of Rama and spread illusions unconsciously for thy
destruction, O thou of great strength. Or thou hast been slain by
Vasava--(no) what power has he got to face thee in the conflict gifted
with great strength, prowess and energy and an enemy of the celestials
as thou art? It is evident that the great ascetic Vishnu, having truth
for his prowess--the soul of all beings, ever existing, without
beginning, middle or end, greater than the great, the Preserver of the
Nature, holding conch, discus and club, having _Sribatsa_[463] on his
breast, always beautiful, incapable of being conquered, without
destruction, devoid of end, and the lord of all men, assuming this shape
of a man and encircled by the celestials, assuming monkey shapes, hath
for the behoof of mankind, slain (thee) the dreadful enemy of the gods
with all (thy) family and Rakshasas. Subduing all thy passions, thou
didst conquer the three worlds--remembering their grudge they have now
over-powered thee. Rama is not a man since he slew at Janasthana thy
brother Khara encircled by many a Rakshasa. We were sore-distressed when
Hanuman, by his own prowess, entered the city of Lanka, incapable of
being approached even by the celestials. And I prevented thee from
creating enmity with Raghava, but thou didst not pay heed to my words
and this is the result (thereof). O foremost of Rakshasas--thou of a
vicious understanding, for the destruction of thy wealth, thyself and
thy relatives, thou didst suddenly cherish amour for Sita, greater than
(even) Arundhuti and Rohini. Forsooth thou didst perpetrate an
unbecoming deed by distressing the adorable Sita ever devoted unto her
lord, an earth[464] even unto Earth herself and a Sree[465] even unto
Sree herself. And having brought in a false guise from the solitary
forest the sorrowful and chaste Sita, having a blameless person, thou
didst bring on the destruction of thy family. Thou didst fail to
encompass thy desire for the company of Sita. But now, forsooth, O my
lord, thou hast been burnt down by her devotion who is devoted unto her
husband.[466] Thou wert not burnt down when thou didst captivate that
middle-statured (damsel) whom fear all the celestials headed by Indra
and _Agni_.[467] O husband, (proper) time appearing the perpetrator gets
the result of his vicious deeds: there is not the least doubt in this.
The performer of the good receives good (result)--the perpetrator of the
vicious (deeds) meets with bad (result). Bibhishana hath attained to
happiness and thou hast met with this thy end. There are damsels in your
seraglio far more beautiful than she but thou possessed by cupid couldst
not perceive this. Maithilee is not my equal nor superior either in
birth, beauty or accomplishments, but thou didst not perceive this by
thy misgivings. Death doth not always visit all men without any
cause--and Maithilee is the cause of thy death. And death, in
consequence of Maithilee, hath taken thee far away. And she, shorn of
all sorrow, shall enjoy in the company of Rama, and I, of limited piety,
am now sunk in the the ocean of grief. Roaming at large with thee in a
car unequalled in beauty on the hill Kailaca, Mandara, Maru, in the
garden of Chaitraratha and ail other celestial gardens, beholding many a
country, wearing variegated clothes and garlands, I have been deprived
of all pleasures and enjoyments, O hero, by thy death. And I am a widow
now. O fie on fickle fortune! O king, in lustre of countenance thou art
like the Sun, in grace like the Moon, in beauty like the lotus; thou art
graceful, O thou having excellent brows; thou hast got excellent skin,
high nose and thy countenance is graced with a brilliant crown and
_Kundalas_. Oh how beautiful, thou didst look with various garlands when
thy eye whirled with intoxication on the drinking ground and how
beautiful were thy smiles, O lord. Thy countenance doth not shine
now--being severed with Rama's shafts, bathed in a pool of blood, having
thy back-bone and brain deranged and covered with the dust raised by the
wheels of the chariots. Alas! by my ill-luck I have attained to that
after state making me a widow which I did never think of. My father is
the king of Danavas, my husband the lord of Rakshasas, and my son the
subduer of Sakra. I was greatly proud of this and always confident that
my protectors were undaunted, dreadful, repressors of the enemies and
famous for their strength and manliness. O ye foremost of the Rakshasas,
how could this fear from man overwhelm you all who were so powerful?
(This thy body) is cool, green like _Indraneela_, high like a huge
mountain, and adorned with _Keyura_, _Angada_, jewels and garlands of
flowers. It was graceful in places of enjoyments and incapable of being
looked at in the field of battle. It was brilliant, being decked with
ornaments like unto clouds accompanied by lightnings. And this thy
person hath been pierced with shafts to-day; (and knowing) that it is
not easy of attainment for me I am incapable of embracing (it), covered
with shafts piercing through the very vitals. O king (this thy body)
green-hued (but now) blood-red is now lying on the ground like unto a
mountain shattered with thunder-bolts. That thou wouldst be slain by
Rama was like a dream, but it hath proved true! Thou wert like death
unto Death himself, why hast thou been possessed by him then? Thou wert
the enjoyer of the three worlds' wealth and dread unto them; thou wert
the conqueror of the deities presiding over various quarters; thou didst
shake Sankara (himself)--thou wert the subduer of the proud and thy
prowess was well-known; thou didst repress the people and slay many a
pious man--thou didst, by thy prowess, use to give vent to haughty words
before the enemies; thou wert the maintainer of thy kinsmen and servants
and the slayer of many perpetrating dreadful deeds; thou wert the
destroyer of thousands of celestials, Danavas and Yakshas; thou wert the
subduer of _Nivata Kavachas_ in the encounter; thou didst hinder the
performance of many sacrifices and wert the protector of thy relatives;
thou wert the obstructer of pious observances, creator of illusions in
conflict and thou didst bring away from hither and thither the daughters
of the celestials, demons and men; thou didst aggrieve the wives of thy
enemies; thou wert the leader of thy own men, the protector of the
island of Lanka and the performer of many a dreadful deed; thou didst
confer upon us the enjoyment of many a pleasure--and wert the foremost
of car-warriors. Beholding such a husband slain by Rama, I am, deprived
of my dear lord, still maintaining my being; (forsooth) my heart is very
hard. O lord of Rakshasas, used ere to many a valuable bed, why art thou
sleeping on earth covered with dust? When my son Indrajit was slain by
Lakshmana in conflict I was greatly pained--but to-day I am slain.
Deprived of my friends and relatives, separated from thee O my lord,
deprived from the enjoyment of many pleasures I shall lament for thee
perpetually. Thou hast, O king, reached the way, long and hard to be
treaded--do thou take me, who am stricken with grief and who shall not
be able to live without thee. Why dost thou wish to go leaving me behind
who have been rendered poorly? Why dost thou not welcome me, unfortunate
and poor, who am bewailing? Why art thou not angry, lord, beholding me,
having put off my veil, walk out on foot by the city-gate? O beloved of
thy wives, do thou behold thy wives--who have thrown off their veils.
Why art thou not angry seeing them all come out (of the city)? I was thy
companion in sports, my lord; I long for having thee; why art thou not
consoling and welcoming me? O king, being imprecated by those damsels,
not one, devoted to their husbands, pious and ever engaged in attending
upon their superiors, who had been widowed by thee, thou hast been
overpowered by thy enemy. The carte, proceeding from them who had been
ill-treated by thee, hath borne fruit. O king, the saying, that the
tears of chaste damsels do not uselessly fall on the ground, hath been
verified (here) forsooth. O king, conquering the worlds with thy
prowess, how couldst thou, always honored by the king, cherish the vile
desire of stealing away women? Taking away Rama and Lakshmana from the
hermitage by an illusionary deer, thou didst steal away Rama's spouse. I
remember to have never heard thee lament in battle. Forsooth, it is our
misfortune and the sign of impending death (that thou didst do this)
conversant as thou art with the past, present and future. Beholding the
daughter of the king of Mithila brought (in the city of Lanka) what, thy
younger brother Bibhishana, thinking and sighing, said, hath now proved
true, O thou of long-arms. This destruction of the leading Rakshasas
hath proceeded from the disaster arising from thy anger and lust. For
thy (vicious) deeds all our good fortune is lost--(and from them) hath
proceeded the great disaster exterminating the race. And by thee all the
Rakshasa families have been deprived of their lords. Thou, well-known
for thy strength and manliness, art not worthy of being grieved by me.
On account of my effeminate nature my understanding is possessed by
sorrow. Carrying thy pious and iniquitous deeds thou hast attained to
thy own state--I am only lamenting for me who have been sorry for thy
destruction. O Ten-necked one, thou didst not bear the words of thy
friends and brothers, who spoke those well meaning words out of
affection. Thou didst not obey the words uttered by Bibhisana, duly and
mildly, pregnant with meaning and reasoning and tending to thy welfare.
Maddened with thy own prowess thou didst not hear the words of Maricha,
Kumbhakarna as well as those of my father--and this is the result
thereof. O thou resembling the red clouds, O thou wearing yellow cloth
and excellent _Angada_, stretching thy person on the ground why art thou
in the long run bathed in blood? Why dost thou not, like one asleep,
welcome me who am stricken with grief? I am the grand-daughter of the
highly powerful Rakshasa Sumali who never flies away from the field of
battle: why dost thou not welcome me? Rise up! rise up! why dost thou
lie down (on this occasion of) new discomfiture? To-day have the rays of
the Sun entered fearlessly the city of Lanka. The Parigha, by which,
brilliant as the rays of the Sun, thou didst distress the enemies in
conflict, which was always adored by thee like the thunder of the
wielder of thunder-bolt, which slew many in battle, and which was
adorned with golden nets, now lieth shattered into thousand pieces by
arrows. Why dost thou lie on the battle-field embracing her like your
beloved spouse? Why dost thou not wish to welcome me like one not
beloved unto thee? Oh fie on this heart of mine which is not sundered
into thousand (pieces) albeit distressed with the grief of thy death!"
Bewailing thus, she, with profuse tears in her eyes, and with her heart
overflowing with affection, became senseless. And being beside herself
she flung herself on Ravana's breast, like unto the bright lightning
appearing on red evening clouds. Thereupon the other wives, of Ravana,
greatly distressed and weeping, and raising her up who was greatly
weeping, began to console her saying:--"Dost thou not know, O worshipful
dame, that the life of beings is very uncertain, and with adverse
circumstances even the royal fortune becometh fickle?" Being thus
accosted she again wept aloud, bathing with tears her breast and
beautiful countenance. In the meantime Rama said to Bibhisana,--"Do thou
perform the funeral ceremonies of thy brother and console his wives".
Whereto the intelligent Bibhisana replied with the following
words--pointing out wealth and piety, and judging by his understanding
what is proper. "I do not think it proper to perform his cremation
ceremony who had renounced all pious deeds, was wicked, cruel, liar and
who had ravished others' wives. He is my enemy in the shape of a brother
ever engaged in doing injury unto others--and Ravana is not worthy of my
adoration albeit he is adorable by virtue of his being my elder brother.
O Rama, perhaps people of this earth will call me cruel but they will
again recognise my act as good when they will hear of his vicious
deeds". Hearing those words, Rama, the foremost of the pious and
conversant with the skill of speech, greatly delighted, spoke unto
Bibhishana (equally) skilled in speech,--"It behoveth me to encompass
thy welfare since by thy help I have gained the victory. O lord of
Rakshasas, forsooth, thou shouldst hear my well-meaning words. Although
this night-ranger perpetrated many vicious and impious deeds, still he
was ever powerful, heroic and strong in warfare. I have heard that this
high-souled Ravana, gifted with strength and a dread unto all people,
was not defeated (even) by the celestials headed by the performer of a
hundred sacrifices. Enmity extendeth up to death--so it hath ended;
there is no necessity (of carrying it on). Do thou (therefore) perform
his cremation ceremony--he is unto thee as he is unto me. O thou of
long-arms it behoveth thee to perform, speedily with due rites and
religious ceremonies, his funeral ceremony--thou shalt be the object of
praise (unto people)". Hearing the words of Raghava, Bibhishana hastened
on and began to make arrangements for the cremation of his slain brother
Ravana. And entering the city of Lanka, Bibhishana, the lord of
Rakshasas, speedily got out Ravana's _Agnihotra_,[468] carts, brass
utensils, fire, (and brought) _Jajakas_,[469] sandal-wood, other woods,
essences, _Agura_, other fragrant substances, precious stones, pearls
and corals. Thereupon arriving immediately accompanied by Rakshasas and
Malyavana he engaged in the performance of cremation ceremony. Thereupon
the twice-born ones, with tears in their eyes, covered the Rakshasa-king
Ravana's body, with a silken cloth and placed it on a golden celestial
litter. With the sound of various bugles they began to chaunt his
praise. And taking up this litter adorned with various charming
paintings and flags and carrying fire woods, all the Rakshasas headed by
Bibhishana proceeded towards the South.[470] The Brahmins, versed in
_Yayur Veda_ and with burning fire in their hands, proceeded and were
followed by the attendants. And the damsels of the seraglio followed
speedily leaping (being ever unused to walking). And placing Ravana on
the cremation ground, they, greatly stricken with grief, prepared the
funeral pyre according to due rites with sandalwoods, _Padmakas_,[471]
_Ushiras_[472] and sandal and spread an antelope-skin thereon. They
(then) performed the excellent obsequies of the manes of the lord of
Rakshasas. And raising an altar at the south-east corner they placed
fire at the proper place. They then poured curd and clarified butter
upon (Ravana's) shoulders. And placing _Sakata_ on his legs,
_Ulukhala_[473] on his thighs, and the brass untensils, Arunis and
Musals in their proper places, they celebrated (the obsequies of his
manes). Thereupon slaying beasts according to the rites laid down in
_Sastras_ and pointed out by the great saints, the Rakshasas (made a
coverlet dipped in their marrow and clarified butter) and placed it on
the face of the lord of Rakshasas. And decking Ravana with fragrant
garlands and various clothes, the friends, of Bibhishana, with depressed
heart and tears in their eyes, showered dried paddy (on his person). And
Bibhishana according to due rites put fire to his (funeral pyre).
Bathing and with wetted cloth, offering duly linseed and sacrificial
grass mixed with water and consoling (Ravana's) wives again and again,
he entreated them to go back. They then entered the city. And those
damsels having entered the city, Bibhishana, the lord of Rakshasas,
approaching Rama, stood by his side gently. And Rama too, along with his
army, Sugriva and Lakshmana, was greatly delighted after slaying his
enemy like unto the wielder of thunder-bolt after slaying (the demon)
Vitra. Thereupon leaving aside his bow with arrows, and the huge armour
conferred by Mahendra and renouncing ire after the destruction of his
enemy Rama assumed gentle mein.
[463] A particular mark usually said to be a curl of hair on the breast
of _Vishnu_. The emblem of the tenth _jina_ or the mark above
ascribed to _Vishnu_ or _Krishna_.
[464] The Earth is an emblem of patience but Sita is more patient than
the Earth.--T.
[465] Sree is the goddess of wealth and good fortune--but Sita is more
fortunate than fortune herself.--T.
[466] _i.e._ that thou wert not burnt down there and then shows her
greatness of mind.--T.
[467] The god of Fire.
[468] A pot for preserving sacred fire.
[469] The Brahmins who perform obsequies.
[470] Cremation-place.
[471] A sort of drug commonly called _Padmakas_.
[472] The root of a fragrant grass.
[473] A wooden mortar used for cleaning rice.
SECTION CXIV.
Beholding the destruction of Ravana the celestials, Gandharbas and
Danavas ascending their respective cars went away chanting this
excellent theme. And talking of Ravana's dreadful destruction, Raghava's
prowess, the excellent warfare of the monkeys, the counsels of Sugriva,
the devotion and prowess of the Wind-God's son and Lakshmana and Sita's
devotion unto her husband, those high souled ones, delighted, repaired
to their respective quarters. And Raghava, having long arms, permitting
the charioteer to take back the celestial car bright as the sky sent by
Indra, honoured him greatly. And being commanded by Raghava Matali, the
charioteer of Sakra taking the celestial car, rose up in the welkin. And
that charioteer rising up into the celestial region, Raghava, the
foremost of car-warriors, greatly delighted, embraced Sugriva. And
embracing Sugriva, bowed unto by Lakshmana and worshipped by the monkey
he repaired to the camp of his soldiers. Thereupon Kakutstha spoke unto
Lakshmana--the son of Sumitra gifted with auspicious marks who was near
him--"O gentle one, take this Bibhishana to the city of Lanka ever
devoted and attached unto us, and who had done us good. This is my great
desire that I may behold Bibhishana the younger brother of Ravana
installed on the throne of Lanka". Being thus addressed by the
high-souled Raghava, the son of Sumitra, saying--"So be it" and greatly
delighted, brought a golden jar. And placing that jar at the hands of
the lord of monkeys, that one, gifted with great energy, ordered them to
bring water from the Ocean. And repairing speedily those excellent
monkeys came back with water from the ocean. And taking that jar and
placing him on an excellent seat Saumitri with that water sprinkled
Bibhishana as king of Lanka in the presence of all the Rakshasas, at
Rama's command. And (Lakshmana) encircled by friends sprinkling him
according to rites laid down in the Vedas, all the Rakshasas, devoted
unto him, his counsellors and the monkeys attaining incomparable
delight, sang the glory of Rama. And beholding Bibhishana the lord of
Rakshasas installed in the city of Lanka, Raghava along with Lakshmana
attained to an excess of delight. And consoling his subjects he went to
Rama. And the monkey citizens, delighted, brought him curd, fried grain,
sweetmeats, fried paddy and flowers. And taking all those things
indicating auspiciousness, he, irrepressible and gifted with energy,
conferred them upon Raghava and Lakshmana. And beholding Bibhisbana
crowned with prosperity and success, Rama accepted them, all for his
satisfaction. Thereupon Rama spoke unto the heroic monkey Hanuman,
resembling a a mountain and standing before him humbly with folded
hands, saying--"O gentle one, obtaining permission from the king
Bibhishana, do thou enter the city of Lanka and enquire after Maithili's
welfare. Do thou, O foremost of monkeys, inform Vaidehi of the
destruction of Ravana in conflict after communicating unto her mine
health as well as that of Lakshmana and Sugriva. O lord of monkeys, it
behoveth thee to return with the tidings of Vaidehi after informing her
of this pleasant news.
SECTION CXV.
Being thus commanded, Hanuman, the son of Maruta, worshipped of the
night-rangers, entered the city of Lanka. Entering the city with
Bibishana's permissiom, Hanuman, again permitted, entered the Briksha
Vatika.[474] And entering there duly, the monkey, who was already known
to Sita, espied her, having her person not cleansed, like Rohini,
oppressed by Rahu, sitting at the foot of a tree, devoid of joy and
encircled by she-demons. And approaching her and bowing unto her, he
stood there humbly and unmoved. And beholding the highly powerful
Hanuman arrived there the worshipful dame stood silent for sometime and
then recognising him became greatly delighted. And beholding her gentle
countenance, Hanuman, the best of monkeys, began to relate unto her what
Rama had said--"O Vaidehi, it is all well with Rama, Sugriva and
Lakshmana. He hath enquired after thy welfare. He hath accomplished his
end subduing his enemies--and his enemy is slain. O worshipful dame, the
powerful Ravana hath been slain by Rama, helped by Bibhishana and
accompanied by the monkeys and Lakshmana. I do relate unto thee this
pleasant news, O worshipful dame; I do again delight thee; it is by thy
grace, O thou conversant with piety, O Sita, victory hath been gained.
Do thou be consoled and relieved of thy anxiety. The enemy Ravana hath
been slain and the city of Lanka, hath been brought under submission.
(Rama said),--'For discomfitting thy enemy a bridge was constructed over
the sea by me who was determined and who did not sleep (for days) and
thus my promise hath been fulfilled. Do thou not be afraid for living in
Ravana's abode for I have placed at Bibhishana's hands the sovereignty
of Lanka. Do thou be consoled thinking as if that thou art living in thy
own house. To behold thee, Bibhishana, delighted, shall soon proceed".
Being thus accosted the worshipful Sita, having a moon-like countenance,
and her voice choked in delight, could not utter any thing. And
beholding Sita incapable of replying the foremost of monkeys
said,--"What art thou thinking of, O worshipful dame? Why art thou not
welcoming me?" Being thus addressed by Hanuman, Sita, ever treading the
paths of morality, greatly delighted, replied with words suppressed by
tears. "Hearing this pleasant news concerning the victory of my
husband--and being brought under the control of joy I am speechless for
sometime. O monkey, I do not perceive any such thing which I can confer
upon thee, in return, for this pleasant news. I do dot see any such
thing on this earth which can match thy pleasant tidings and bestowing
which upon thee I may be happy. Silver, gold, or diverse jewels or the
kingdom of the three worlds--nothing is a becoming return for thy
speech". Being thus addressed by Vaidehi the monkey replied--folding his
hands with delight and stationed before Sita,--' O blameless damsel,
forsooth this excellent speech becometh thee, who is ever engaged in the
welfare of thy husband and ever desirous of his victory. I do consider,
O worshipful dame, these words of thine, far greater than the wealth,
jewels or even the sovereignty over the celestials. Forsooth I have
gained the kingdom of the celestials and other things since I have
beheld Rama slay his enemy, victorious and peaceful. Hearing those words
of (Hanuman) Maithili the daughter of king Janaka spoke unto the
Wind-god's son far more excellent words--"Thou art capable of speaking
words, chaste, pleasant and significant of eight sorts of knowledge.
Thou art the praise-worthy son of the Wind-god and greatly virtuous;
strength, prowess, heroism, knowledge of _Sastras_, noble-mindedness,
energy, forgiveness, patience, endurance, humility and many other
excellent qualities crown thee". Thereupon not being elated the least,
he again, humbly folding his hands with delight and stationed before
Sita, said--"If dost thou permit me I may slay all these she-demons who
had tortured thee before, distressed thee in the forest of Acoka,
stricken with grief of thy lord, and who are cruel, have grim eyes and
who perpetrate always dreadful deeds. O worshipful dame, I have heard
that these grim-visaged she-demons distressed thee greatly with harsh
words at the command of Ravana. I desire to slay all these dreadful,
crooked, ugly (she-demons) having fearful eyes, meting out unto them
various punishments. I wish to slay all these she-demons, who had used
harsh words and had always offended thee, stricking them with fists,
fingers, arms, dreadful knee-joints, teeth, chopping off their ears and
noses, and pulling them by their hairs: do thou confer upon me this
permission. O far famed lady, I shall slay them by these various means,
by whom, dreadful as they are, thou hadst been distressed before". Being
thus addressed by Hanuman, she, ever kind unto the poor, thinking and
meditating, said to him--"O foremost of monkeys, why art thou angry with
these she-slaves, who subject as they are to the command of their lord,
have done this in accordance with another's order. For my adverse
fortune and vicious deeds perpetrated in another birth I have been
subject to such a plight and been suffering the consequence thereof. Do
thou not speak thus, O thou of huge arms. Such is the course of Fortune.
Forsooth by my ill-luck I have met with (this misfortune). I forgive,
out of pity, all these she-servants of Ravana; they used to torture me
at the command of that Rakshasa. And he being slain they shall not
repress me any longer, O son of the Wind-god. Do thou, O monkey, hear of
a _Sloka_, related in a _Purana_ and pregnant with religious import,
which was uttered by a boar to a tiger. 'No one taketh upon himself the
iniquity of a perpetrator of vicious deeds. So it behoveth the pious
crowned with an excellent character to observe the rules (of piety). So
it is proper to show compassion even upon those who perpetrate crimes
and are worthy of being slain. Who is there who doth not commit a crime?
It is not proper to act cruelly even by them who take delight in killing
men, although they commit various iniquitous deeds.'" Being thus
addressed by Sita, Hanuman, skilled in speech, spoke unto the blameless
Rama's spouse, saying--"Thou art the worthy spouse of Rama, religiously
wedded and crowned with many qualities. Permit me, O worshipful dame, to
proceed where Raghava is". Being thus accosted by Hanuman, Vaidehi, the
daughter of king Janaka, said,--"I wish to see my lord, ever fond of
those who are devoted unto him". Hearing these words, the high-minded
Hanuman, the son of Maruta, pleasing Maithili said--"Thou shalt behold
Rama, having a countenance like the full moon, with Lakshmana,
surrounded by his friends and having his enemies slain as Sachi
beholdeth Indra the king of the celestials". Addressing these words unto
Sita appearing like Sree herself the highly effulgent Hanuman returned
where Raghava was. Thereupon Hanuman, the foremost of monkeys, related
duly all what did the daughter of king Janaka say unto Raghava
resembling the lord of the celestials.
[474] A garden in the city of Lanka.--T.
SECTION CXVI.
Thereupon bowing unto Rama, the foremost of bow-men, having eyes
resembling lotus-petals, the highly wise monkey said,--"It behoveth thee
now to see Maithilee, stricken with grief for whom thou didst initiate
all these works and the fruit whereof hath now been attained. Hearing of
thy victory Maithilee, possessed by grief and having eyes full of tears,
expressed her desire to see thee. And I was told by her, confident of
her previous trust, with profuse tears in her eyes,--"I wish to see my
husband". Being addressed by Hanuman, Rama the foremost of the pious
being bathed in tears, engaged instantly in meditation. Thereupon
sighing hard and casting his looks upon the ground he spoke unto
Bibhishana resembling clouds, who was near him. "Do thou speedily bring
Sita here--the daughter of the king of Mithila--bathed, sprinkled with
celestial paste and adorned with celestial ornaments". Being thus
addressed by Rama, Bibhishana hastened on and entering the inner
appartment sent information unto Sita through the female attendants. And
beholding the great Sita, the graceful lord of Rakshasas--Bibhishana,
humbly and placing his joined palms on his crown, said,--"O Vaidehi, may
good betide thee; sprinkled with celestial paste and adorned with
celestials ornaments do thou ascend this car; thy husband wisheth to see
thee". Being thus addressed Vaidehi replied unto Bibhishana,--"O lord of
Rakshasas, without bathing even I wish to see my husband". Hearing those
words Bibhishana replied,--"It behoveth thee to do what thy lord Rama
hath said". Whereto the chaste Maithilee, regarding her husband as God
and filled with devotion unto her husband, replied saying "So be it".
Thereupon placing Sita, bathed, performing the due rites wearing
valuable clothes and adorned with valuable ornaments, on a palanquin,
carried by many a capable Rakshasa, brought her (unto Rama). Thereupon
approaching the high-souled Rama, who, being informed of (Bibhishana's
approach) was engaged in meditation, Bibhishana bowing down and
delighted communicated unto him the arrival of Sita. And hearing of her
arrival who had lived long in the abode of the Rakshasa Raghava, the
slayer of enemies attained (simultaneously) to anger, delight and
depression. And considering Sita, who was in the patanquin, over-whelmed
with grief, Raghava delighted addressed Bibhishana with the following
words. "O lord of Rakshasas, O gentle (king), O thou ever engaged in
encompassing my success, do thou speedily bring Vaidehi nearer to me".
Hearing these words of Raghava, Bibhishana, conversant with piety
speedily cleared (the people out of that place). And attendants with
armours and head-dresses on and with cane and drums in their hands began
to move about driving away the crowd thereform. And the crowds of bears,
monkeys and Rakshasas being driven on all sides began to fly at a
distance. And they being thus driven there arose a huge noise resembling
that of the ocean when agitated by the wind. Beholding the monkeys
driven on all sides and troubled, Raghava out of anger and compassion
prevented him. And thereupon as if burning (every thing) with his angry
eyes Rama addressed the highly intelligent Bibhishana with the following
angry words--"Why dost thou insult me by destroying all these? Do thou
remove their anxiety--they are all my own men. Neither the houses,
clothes, walls nor reception like these are the veils of women. There is
no sin consequent upon seeing women in danger, difficulty, war,
_Svyambara_[475] sacrifice and marriage. She is now in great danger and
difficulty--there is no sin in seeing her specially in my presence.
Therefore leaving behind the palanquin let her come here on foot and let
the monkeys behold Vaidehi in my presence". Being thus addressed by
Rama, Bibbishana, being sorry, humbly brought Sita near him. There-upon
bearing Rama's accents, Lakshmana, Sugriva and the monkey Hanuman were
greatly sorry. As if hiding herself in her own person in shame Maithili,
following Bibhishana, approached her husband. And she, having a gentle
countetiance and always regarding her husband as her god, fixed her
looks upon her lord's face out of surprise, joy and love. And beholding
the gentle countenance of her dearest lord, resembling the full moon she
removed her mental distress. Thereupon she appeared (beautiful) having
the countenance of the clear moon.
[475] It is a form of marriage in which the bride selects a bridegroom
for herself.
SECTION CXVII.
Beholding Maithili standing humbly by him, Rama began to give vent to
his pent-up feelings--"O gentle one, destroying all the enemies in the
arena of battle I have subdued thy enemy--I have done all that can be
accomplished by manliness. I have reached the other end of my anger,
rubbed off (the insult) for my spouse being taken away by the enemy and
have killed simultaneously my disgrace and enemy. My manliness hath been
displayed to-day, my labour hath been crowned with success and to-day I
have fulfilled my promise by my own prowess. That accidental misfortune,
under the influence whereof thou wert carried away by the fickle-minded
Rakshasa in my absence, hath been subdued to-day by me, a man. What is
the use of his manliness, who when insulted, cannot remove it? Even if
he be a great man he may be called mean. The praise-worthy works of
Hanuman--the crossing of the deep and the devastation of Lanka, have
been crowned with success to-day. The labour of Sugriva with his army,
who displayed valour in the encounter and gave me good counsels, hath
borne fruit to-day. To-day also the labour of Bibhishana hath borne
fruit--who renouncing his brother, devoid of all good qualities, came to
my side". Hearing those words of Rama, Sita began to look wistfully like
a hind, with eyes full of tears. And beholding his beloved spouse near
him and afraid of popular ignominy his heart was broken into two.
Thereupon he spoke unto the exquisitely beautiful Sita, in the midst of
the monkeys and Rakshasas, having eyes resembling lotus-petals and black
and curling hairs, saying,--"As the southern quarter, incapable of being
got at by the people, was conquered by the self-controlled great ascetic
Agastya, so for thee slaying Ravana, I, (always) anxious to have honour,
have removed my insult--as is the duty of a man. May good betide
thee--do thou know that all my labour, in the battle-field, backed by
the prowess of my friends, is for thee, To uphold the dignity of my
well-known family, to remove the ignominy consequent upon thy being
stolen away as well as to wipe off my own insult I have encompassed
this. I have suspected thy character; thou, (therefore) standing before
me, art distressing me like unto a lamp before one who is subject to an
eye-disease. Do thou therefore proceed, daughter of king Janaka,
wherever thou likest to one of these ten quarters. I permit thee, O
gentle one. I have nothing to do with thee. What powerful man, born in a
high family, take back his wife considering her as friend out of lust,
who hath lived long in another's house? Thou wert taken by Ravana on his
lap, beheld by him with sinful eyes; how can I, taking thee back, bring
disgrace upon my great family? The object, with which I have gained thee
back, hath been accomplished. I have got no attachment for thee--do thou
go wherever thou wishest, gentle one. I speak these unto thee impelled
by my sense of duty. If thou wishest thou mayest live with Lakshmana,
Bharata or Satrughna or with Sugriva or Rakshasa Bibhishana. Do thou
settle, O Sita, where you may find thy own pleasure. O Sita, (I do not
think) Ravana hath overlooked thee, who lived in his house, beholding
thee so graceful and beautiful". Thereupon hearing those unpleasant
words from her beloved (husband) Sita, always sensitive and who had
never heard such unpleasant words, trembling like a creeper torn by the
trunk of an elephant, began to weep shedding tears profusely.
SECTION CXVIII.
Being this addressed by Raghava, enraged, with those harsh words Sita
was greatly pained. And hearing those words of her lord, unheard of,
before the great assembly Maithili was greatly humiliated with shame. As
if entering unto her own person (with shame) and greatly pained with
these arrow-like words the daughter of king Janaka began to shed tears.
Thereupon wiping the tears off her countenance, she with sorrowful
words, addressed her husband--"Why dost thou, O hero, like a common man
addressing an ordinary woman, make me hear these harsh and unbecoming
words painful unto ears? O thou of long arms, I am not what thou hast
taken me to be. Do thou believe me I do swear by my own character.
Seeing the ordinary women thou art distrusting the whole sex. Do thou
renounce this suspicion since thou hast tried me. O lord, though my
person was touched by another--but it was not in my power; nor was it an
wilful act (of mine); accident is to blame in this. My heart is under my
control and that is in thee;--and what could I do of my body which was
subject to another and of which I was not the mistress. O thou the
conferrer of honour--our affection towards one another was increased by
our living continually for a long time; even then if thou hast not been
able to understand me I am ruined for ever. O king, when the great hero
Hanuman was despatched by thee to Lanka to see me why didst thou not
renounce me then? Hadst thou deputed the monkey with that message I
would have renounced my life there and then, O hero. Thou wouldst not
have been required to undergo this toil at the risk of thy own life and
giving unnecessary trouble to thy friends. O foremost of kings, being
subject to ire--thou dost not perceive anything but womanhood in me,
like an ordinary man. Although I am known to have a father but in fact I
am born of the earth. Thou dost not sufficiently honour my character, O
thou conversant with characters. Thy marriage with me in boyhood shall
be disproved and thou art not sufficiently considering all my devotion
and good conduct unto thee". Saying thus with accents choked in tears
and weeping Sita spoke unto Lakshmana, poorly and engaged in meditation.
"Make a funeral pyre for me, O Saumitri, that is the only remedy for
this disaster. Being thus branded with an unfounded stigma I do not like
to keep my life. To adopt the proper course for me who had been
renounced before this assembly by my disaffected husband I shall enter
this". Being thus addressed by Vaidehi, Lakshmana, the slayer of
enemies, being possessed by anger, looked towards Raghava. And
understanding Rama's intention by gestures and at his command the
powerful Saumitri prepared a funeral pyre. None dared there request,
speak with or even look at Rama like unto Death at the time of
dissolution. Thereupon circumambulating Rama, standing with his head
down, Vaidehi approached the burning fire. And bowing unto the
celestials and Brahmanas, Maithili, with folded hands, spoke before the
fire:--"As my heart hath never gone away from Raghava, may thou protect
me, O fire, the witness of the people. As Raghava considereth me vile,
who have got a pure character, may fire, the witness of the people,
protect me on all sides". Saying this and going round the fire, Vaidehi,
with undaunted heart, entered the flaming fire. The great assembly
there, young and old, overwhelmed with grief, saw Maithili enter the
flaming fire. And (Sita) resembling the burning gold entered the flaming
fire in the presence of all people. All beheld Sita, having expansive
eyes, enter fire like unto a golden altar. The ascetics, celestials and
Gandharbas saw that great damsel enter fire like unto a full oblation in
the sacrifice. And beholding her fallen into the fire like unto
_Vasudhara_, sanctified by Mantras in a sacrifice, all the females began
to weep. And the three worlds--the celestials, Gandharbas and Danavas
saw her fallen like unto a celestial from the heaven when imprecited.
She having entered the fire, lamentations, unheard of before, rose from
all sides from the Rakshasas and monkeys.
SECTION CXIX.
Hearing the lamentations (of the Rakshasas and monkeys) the
virtuous-souled Rama, with a poor heart and having his eyes full of
tears, engaged in meditation for some time. Thereupon the king
Vaisravana, Yama with his progenitors, the thousand-eyed lord of the
celestials, Varuna, the lord of water, the three-eyed graceful
Mahadeva--the rider of bull, Brahma the creator of the world and the
foremost of those conversant with the knowledge of Brahma--all these
arriving at the city of Lanka in their cars bright as the rays of the
sun, approached Raghava. Thereupon raising up their huge hands, decked
with various ornaments and folding them, those foremost of the
celestials said unto Raghava--"O lord, thou art the preserver of all the
worlds and the foremost of the wise, why dost thou neglect Sita entering
into fire? Why dost thou not understand thyself the foremost of the
celestials? Thou wert before the Patriarch of all _Vasus_,[476] by the
name of Kratadhama. And thou art thyself, O lord, the creator of the
three worlds. Thou art the eighth of the _Rudras_[477] and the fifth of
the _Sadkyas_;[478] the Acwinis are thy two ears and the sun and the
moon are thy eyes. O slayer of enemies, thou appearest at the begining
and the end of the creation. Why dost thou neglect Vaidehi like an
ordinary man?" Being thus addressed by the deities presiding over
quarters, Raghava, the lord of people and the foremost of the pious,
spoke unto those leading celestials, saying:--"I know myself to be
man--Rama, the son of Dacaratha. Let the great Patriarch tell me, who I
am and whence I have come". Thereupon Brahma, the foremost of those
conversant with the knowledge of Brahma, spoke unto Kakutstha, who had
spoken thus, saying,--"Do thou hear my true words, O thou having truth
for thy prowess. O lord, thou art the great and effulgent, Narayana
holding discus and mace; thou art the boar having one tusk; thou hast
conquered the past, present and future; thou art undecaying and without
end, O Raghava; thou art the great virtue of the pious--thou art the
propounder of all laws and art four-armed; thou art the holder of bow of
time--the subduer of senses--the excellent Purusha (person),
unconquerable by sins; thou art Vishnu holding dagger, Krishna and of
incomparable strength; thou art the army, the minister--the
universe--the understanding, forgiveness and control of passions; thou
art the creation and destruction; Upendra and the slayer of (demon)
Madhu; thou art the creator of Indra; thou art Mahendra; thou hast a
lotus-like navel and thou art the slayer of enemies. The celestials and
the great saints style thee as the refuge of those who seek for shelter.
Thou art the foremost of _Vedas_ with its thousand branches and hundred
regulations. Thou art thyself the creator of the three worlds, O lord.
Thou art the refuge of the _Siddhas_[479] and _Sadhyas_, thou art the
_Purvaja_,[480] the sacrifice, _Vashatkar_,[481] _Om_[482] and
_Paratpara_.[483] No one is conversant with thy birth and
destruction--thou art manifest in all creatures--cows and Brahmins--in
all quarters, in the sky, in the mountain, and in the river. Thou art
gifted with thousand legs, thousand heads and thousand eyes. Thou dost
uphold all creatures, the earth and all the mountains. Thou appearest
like the great serpent in the water underneath the earth. O Rama, thou
dost uphold three creations--the celestials, the Gandharbas and the
Danavas. O Rama--I am thy heart, the worshipful Swaraswati (Goddess of
learning) is thy tongue and all other celestials, lord, created by
Brahma are thy down. The closing of thy eye is the night and the opening
is the day. The _Vedas_ are significant of thy desire and the control
thereof--none hath got independent existence but thee. The whole
universe is thy body, the earth is thy patience, the fire is thy
anger--the sun and the moon are thy delight; thou hast got _Sreebatsha_
(a peculiar curl of hair); thou didst before tread the three worlds with
thy three foot steps; thou didst get the dreadful Bali bound and make
Mahendra king; Sita is Lakshmi and thou art Krishna and Vishnu the
Preserver of people. For Ravana's destruction thou hast assumed the
human shape. Thou hast accomplished that work of ours, O thou the
foremost of the pious. O Rama, Ravana hath been slain. Do thou go up to
heaven delighted. Sure is thy godly energy and never goes for nothing
thy prowess. O Rama, never is fruitless thy view and the chanting of thy
glory. And always successful shall be these persons on earth who shall
be devoted unto thee. Those who shall be devoted unto thee at one with
_Purana_[484] and the excellent _Purasha_,[485] shall attain all their
desires both in this world and the next. Those persons shall never be
unsuccessful both in this world and the next who shall chant this
theme--excellent, instinct with the knowledge of Brahma and describing
the old history.
[476] A kind of demi-god of whom eight are enumerated.
[477] A demi-god--an inferior manifestation of Siva: they are eleven in
number.
[478] An inferior deity or demi-god, one of a class of twelve.
[479] Saints of accomplished piety.
[480] Produced or appearing before creation.
[481] Burnt offering, oblation with fire--from the exclamation used on
the occasion.
[482] _Om_--the first term of the _Mantra_, _Om_ or _Omkara_ is
well-known as a combination of letters invested by Hindu mysticism
with peculiar sanctity.
[483] Greatest of the great.
[484] A class of writings considered sacred by the Hindus.
[485] Great or supreme spirit--_Purasha_ meaning that which abides or is
quiesent in body.
SECTION CXX.
Hearing those excellent words uttered by the great Patriarch rose up
_Bibhabasu_[486] with Vaidehi on his lap shaking the funeral pyre. With
the daughter of the king Janaka, the receiver[487] of sacrificial
offerings, being incarnate, rose up. And carrying on his lap Vaidehi,
wearing a red cloth, resembling the newly risen sun, adorned with
ornaments of burning gold--having black curling hairs and decked with
fresh garments, _Bibhabasu_ gave her unto Rama. Thereupon the Deity of
Fire, the witness of the people, spoke unto Rama, saying--"O Rama, here
is thy Vaidehi--no sin hath visited her. Neither by words, mind,
understanding nor eyes, she, good-natured and beautiful--hath deviated
from thee who hath got a good character and is heroic. She was in the
solitary forest separated from thee, poorly and having no control over
herself and hence she was carried away by the Rakshasa Ravana having
enough prowess in him. Although shut up in the inner appartment--well
protected and guarded by the dreadful she-demons she had always her mind
in thee and was devoted unto thee. Although tempted in many a way and
remonstrated with she did not think of that Rakshasa in her inner mind.
Her heart is pure and she is not spoiled with sin--do thou therefore
take back Maithili. Do thou not speak other-wise--I do command thee".
Thereupon hearing those words--the virtuous-souled Rama, the foremost of
those skilled in speech, with his eyes agitated with delight, meditated
for sometime. Being thus addressed, the highly effulgent and intelligent
Rama, of unmitigated prowess--the foremost of the pious, spoke unto that
best of celestials saying--"Beautiful (Sita) lived in the inner
appartment of Ravana for a long time so she needs this purification in
the presence of all people. If I would take the daughter of Janaka
without purifying her, people would say that Rama the son of king
Dacaratha is lustful and ignorant of the morality of the people. I know
it full well that Maithili, the daughter of king Janaka, hath her mind
devoted unto me and hath not given it to anyone (else). As the ocean
cannot go beyond its banks so Ravana could not approach her having
expansive eyes protected by virtue of her own chastity. The greatly
vicious-souled one could not even by his mind get Maithili, who was
beyond his reach like unto the burning flame of fire. Her mind could not
have been moved although she lived in the inner appartment of
Ravana--she belongs to none else; Sita is mine as the rays belong to the
Sun. Maithili--the daughter of Janaka hath been purified before the
three worlds--So I am incapable of renouncing her as a self-controlled
person cannot forsake his (own) reputation. It behoveth me to carry out
the well-meaning words of you all--the lords of people who have spoken
them out of affection". Saying this, the victorious, highly powerful,
well renowned Raghava, worthy of enjoying happiness, and having his
praise chanted in consequence of his noble action, regaining his spouse,
attained to happiness.
[486] The Deity of Fire.
[487] Fire.
SECTION CXXI.
Hearing those excellent words uttered by Raghava, Maheswara (Siva) spoke
far more important words--"O thou having lotus-eyes, O thou having huge
arms and a spacious breast, O thou the slayer of enemies, O thou the
fore most of the pious--it is a good fortune that this hath been done by
thee. It is by good fortune, O Rama, the dreadful and increasing
darkness--the fear of all people--Ravana, hath been removed by thee in
the encounter. Consoling the poor Bharata and the famed Kaucalya,
beholding Kaikeyi and Sumitra the mother of Lakshmana, obtaining the
kingdom of Ayodhya, pleasing all thy friends, establishing the prestige
of thy family, thou of great strength, performing horse-sacrifices,
attaining fair fame and conferring riches upon the Brahmins do thou
repair to heaven. This king Dacaratha stationed on the car is thy
father. He was thy superior on this earth, O Kakutstha. Obtaining thee
as his son, that graceful (king) hath repaired to the region of Indra.
Do thou bow unto him with thy brother Lakshmana". Hearing the words of
Mahadeva, Raghava, along with Lakshmana, bowed unto their father who was
seated on the top of the car. He with Lakshmana beheld their father
shining in his own effulgence and wearing an unsullied cloth. Thereupon
beholding his son dearer than his life, attaining great delight (in
consequence thereof) placing him on his lap and embracing him with his
arms, the great king Dacaratha, having long arms and seated on an
excellent seat in the car, said--"I am now in heaven and am equal with
the celestials, but without thee, O Rama, I do not like it--this is
true--I do swear by thee. O thou the foremost of those skilled in
speech, I have still in my mind the words which were uttered by Kaikeyi
for sending thee away to the woods. Beholding thee all well and
embracing thee with Lakshmana I am now shorn of grief like unto the sun,
devoid of dues. I have been emancipated, O my son, through thee--a good
and high-souled son, as the virtuous-souled Brahmana Kapala was by
Asthabakra. O gentle one, I have heard from the celestials, (that thou
art) the excellent Purusha in the guise (of a man) for the destruction
of Ravana. Blessed is Kaucalya, O Rama, who shall be greatly delighted,
on beholding thee, the slayer of enemies, gone home from the forest.
Blessed are those men, O Rama, who shall behold thee installed in the
city as the king of the world. I wish to behold thee reconciled with
Bharata, devoted powerful, pure and performing pious observances. O
gentle one, thou hast spent fourteen years in the forest with Sita and
Lakshmana. The term of thy exile is over--thy promise hath been
fulfilled; and slaying Ravana, in the conflict thou hast pleased the
celestials. Thou hast performed a mighty deed and attained to excellent
fame, O slayer of enemies; and placed in charge of thy kingdom do thou
with thy brothers attain a long life". The king speaking thus Rama spoke
unto him with folded hands saying,--"O thou conversant with piety, do
thou be propitiated with Bharata and Kaikeyi. Thou didst imprecate
Kaikeyi, saying,--"I renounce thee with thy son"--may not that dreadful
curse visit her and her son". Saying "so be it" unto Rama with folded
hands and embracing Lakshmana the great king said to him:--"O thou
conversant with piety and fame on this earth, thou shall attain to
heaven and excellent state there. O thou the enhancer of Sumitra's
joy--do thou attend upon Rama; may good betide thee; Rama is ever
engaged in the welfare of all beings. All these celestials headed by
Indra, Siddhas and Great saints, bowing unto this high-souled and
excellent Purusha, worship him. Rama, the subduer of foes, is the
indescribable and undecaying letter _Brahma_, which has, been described
(in the Vedas) as the heart and secret of the celestials. For serving
him along with Sita, the daughter of king of Videha, thou hast attained
piety and excellent fame". Addressing Lakshmana thus, the king spoke
unto his daughter-in-law, who was standing before him with folded hands,
saying:--"It doth not behove thee, O Vaidehi, to be enraged (with Rama)
for renouncing thee; for purifying thee this was done by him ever
wishing thy welfare. What thou hast performed, O daughter, to establish
the purity of thy character, is hard to perform. What thou hast done,
shall glorify all other females. Though there is no necessity for giving
thee any instruction as regards thy duty towards thy husband-still I
should say that he is thy great god". Having thus instructed his two
sons and Sita, he repaired, in his car, to the region of Indra. Having
advised his two sons along with Sita, ascending the car, and shining in
his effulgence, that excellent king, greatly delighted, repaired to the
region of the king of celestials.
SECTION CXXII.
Dacaratha having repaired, Mahendra greatly delighted spoke unto
Raghava, stationed there with folded hands, saying:--"O Rama, O foremost
of men, this our presence here, must not be fruitless, we are
pleased--do thou ask for what thou wishest". Being thus accosted by the
high-souled Mahendra--delighted, Raghava spoke, with a pleased heart--"O
lord of the celestials, O thou the foremost of those skilled in speech,
if thou art propitiated with me, I shall pray for (my
wished-for-object); do thou grant it. Let all these highly powerful
monkeys, who have been despatched to the abode of Death, on my account,
regaining their life, stand up. O thou the conferror of honour, I wish
to see all those delighted monkeys, who were separated from their wives
and children on my account. O Purandara, do thou revive all these heroic
and powerful (monkeys) who did not care for death, and who worked hard
and were distressed (for me). May all those, by thy favour, who were
ever devoted unto me and did not care for death (even) regain their
life--this is the boon I pray for. O conferror of honour, I wish to see
all these monkeys, _Golangulas_ and bears, pale and hurt, unheart and
gifted with strength and prowess like before. Let there be flowers,
fruits and roots, even out of season wherever these monkeys shall
live--and let rivers there be full of clear water". Hearing those words
of the high-souled Raghava Mahendra replied with words instinct with
delight--"O my boy, O foremost of the Raghus, mighty is the boon thou
hast prayed for--my words shall never be falsified, so let them be be
fulfilled. Let all those bears and Golangulas rise up who were slain in
the conflict by Rakshasas and had their heads and arms severed. Let the
monkeys gifted with their pristine strength and prowess rise up unhurt
and healthy as if after the end of sleep. And being reconciled with
their friends, relatives and kinsmen let them attain to excellent joy. O
thou the wielder of a huge bow, all the trees shall be filled with
flowers and fruits and all the rivers shall be filled with water even
out of season (wherever they shall live)". Thereupon all these leading
monkeys who had their persons wounded but now healed up, rose up like
those asleep. And all those monkeys were greatly wondered, saying, "What
is it?" And beholding Kakutstha of accomplished, end and eulogizing Rama
and Lakshmana, all the celestials, greatly delighted, said,--"Do thou, O
king, repair to Ayodhya--despatch all the monkeys--console the famed
Maithilee, ever devoted unto thee--behold thy brother Bharata observing
ascetic vows in consequence of thy grief--and the high-souled Satrughna
and all thy mothers, O slayer of foes. And being Installed on the throne
do thou conduce to the joy of all citizens". Having thus addressed Rama
along with Lakshmana, the thousand-eyed Deity, delighted, went away
along with the celestials, in their cars resembling the Sun (in
brilliance). And saluting all the celestials, Kakutstha, with his
brother Lakshmana, ordered the encampment of the army. Thereupon that
famous and well-pleased huge army of the monkeys protected by Rama and
Lakshmana, appeared resplendant on all sides like unto a night
beautified with the rays of the Moon.
SECTION CXXIII.
Rama having spent that night happily and risen up the next morning,
Bibhishana, chanting his victory, spoke unto that slayer of foes, with
folded hands, saying:--"Here are various articles for bathing, pastes,
clothes, ornaments, sandal and various excellent garlands. And here are
present women having eyes like lotuses and conversant with the art of
decking. Let them perform their duty, O Raghava". Being thus accosted
Kakutstha replied unto Bibhishana, saying:--"Do thou invite all these
monkeys beaded by Sugriva to bathe. The virtuous-souled Bharata, having
huge arms and ever used to comforts, is greatly distressed on my
account. Without Bharata the son of Kaikeyi, ever performing pious
rites, I do not value bathing or these clothes and ornaments. Do thou so
manage that we may go to the city of Ayodhya speedily. For difficult is
the way leading to Ayodhya". Being thus accosted Bibhiskana relied unto
Kakutstha,--"O son of the lord of earth, may good betide thee, I shall
soon take thee to that city. The car _Puskpaka_ resembling the Sun,
belonging to my brother Kuvera, was brought by the powerful Ravana. O
thou of unequalled prowess, that celestial and excellent car, going
everywhere at will, since the destruction of Ravana in battle, is ready
for thee. And that car resembling the cloud is in the city of Lanka, in
which thou shalt, relieved of thy anxiety, repair to Ayodhya. If I am
worthy of being favoured by thee, if dost thou remember any
accomplishment of mine--if thou hast any friendship for me, do thou, O
wise one, wait here with thy brother Lakshmana and spouse Vaidehi till I
accomplish all my desires by worshipping thee. And then thou shalt go
(to Ayodhya) O Rama. I shall worship thee with great delight and do
thou, O Rama, with thy friends and army, accept that adoration. O Rama,
out of love, honor, and brotherly feeling, I do crave thy permission. I
am a servant I cannot command thee". Being thus addressed, Rama replied
unto Bibhishaua in the presence of all the Rakshasas and monkeys,
saying:--"I have been worshipped by thee, O hero, with thy excellent
counsels, with thy earnest endeavours and with thy great friendship. Do
not think, O lord of Rakshasas, that I do not comply with thy
request--my heart hastens me to behold my brother Bharata, who, to take
me back, did come to the mount Chitrakuta, who laid low his crown at my
feet and whose words I did not keep. (I am anxious to see) Kaucalya,
Sumitra, Kaikeyi, with my friends, citizens and villagers. Do thou
regard me, O Bibhishana, O gentle one, as worshipped. O friend do thou
be not angry--I request thee. Do thou speedily being the car for me, O
lord of Rakshasas--my work is done--how can I wish to live here long".
Being thus addressed by Rama, Bibhishana the lord of Rakshasas, speedily
brought the car resembling the Sun.
Thereupon arrived there the car adorned all over with gold paintings,
altars crested with _Baidurja_ jewels, having upper rooms, silvered all
over, adorned with white flags and flagstaffs, beautified with gilt
lotuses, adorned with golden houses, covered with a network of girdles,
having windows made of pearls and jems, girt on all sides with a net of
bells, giving forth melodious sound, resembling the summit of the mount
Meru, constructed by _Vicwakarma_ (the architect of the celestials)
adorned with huge apartments beautified with silver and pearls--having
its base crested with crystal, containing excellent seats made of
_Baidurja_, abounding in valuable coverlets and immense wealth,
incapable of being broken down and coursing at will. And communicating
unto Rama (the arrival of that car) Bibhishana waited there. Beholding
that flowery car, coursing at will and resembling a huge mountain, Rama,
of a generous spirit, along with Saumitri, attained to an excess of
astonishment.
SECTION CXXIV.
Having brought that car Pushpaka, adorned with flowers and having
stationed himself at a distance, Bibhishana the lord of Rakshasas, being
incited to hurry on, humbly and with folded hands, spoke unto Rama,
saying, "What shall I do, O Raghava?" Hearing those words the highly
powerful Raghava, in the presence of Lakshmana, gave vent to the
following accents out of affection--"All these monkeys and bears have
brought about the accomplishment of my work with great care. Do thou,
satisfy them, O Bibhishana, with diverse jewels and riches. With these
and thee, I conquered the city of Lanka, lord of Rakshasas. They all
fought with a delighted heart, having renounced all fear of life and who
did never go away from the battle-field. Do thou, with a gift of riches
and jewel, make good the work of these monkeys and bears who encompassed
the accomplishment (of my end). Being honoured and delighted by thee
grateful, all these leading monkeys shall repair (to their respective
quarters). (If thou art found to be) sacrificing, self-controlled,
compassionate and (the just) collector of revenues, all shall be
attached unto thee. For this I do address you (thus). O lord of men, the
soldiers, disgusted, renounce that king who is void of all royal
accomplishments, and who uselessly slays soldiers in the conflict".
Being thus accosted by Rama, Bibhishana, with a distribution of jewels
and riches, honoured all those monkeys. And beholding all those leading
monkeys worshipped with jewels and riches Rama ascended that excellent
car, taking the bashful, and high-minded Vaidehi on his lap and
accompanied, by his powerful brother Lakshmana, a skilled bowman. And
being stationed on the car Kakutstha honouring all the monkeys, the
highly powerful Sugriva and Bibhishana, said--"O foremost of monkeys, ye
have performed a friendly service--it hath been appreciated by me--do ye
repair to your wished-for quarters. O Sugriva, thou, ever afraid of
impiety, hast performed all that a loving and well-wishing friend should
do. Do thou, encircled by thy army, proceed towards Kishkindha. Do thou,
O Bibhishana, live in thy kingdom, Lanka, conferred upon thee, by me.
Not even the celestials, headed by Indra shall be able to assail thee. I
wish to return to Ayodhya, the capital of my father's (kingdom). I wish
to obtain your permission (and for this) I have invited you all". Being
thus addressed by Rama, all the leading monkeys bears as well as the
Rakshasa Bibhishana said with folded hands--"We wish all to go to
Ayodhya. Do thou take us. We shall all range with delight at forests and
gardens. Beholding thee installed and bowing unto Kaucalya, we shall
soon return to our respective homes, O foremost of kings". Being thus
accosted by the monkeys with Bibhishana, the virtuous-souled Rama, spoke
unto them and Sugriva and Bibhishana, saying--"Dearer than the dear, I
shall attain to, when returning my city, along with you all, I shall
enjoy in the company of all my friends and relatives. O Sugriva, do thou
soon ascend the car along with the monkeys. Do thou ascend too, O
Bibhishana, lord of Rakshasas, with all thy courtiers". Thereupon
ascended that celestial car _Pushpaka_, Sugriva, greatly delighted with
the monkeys and Bibhishana, with his courtiers. And they all having got
up, the excellent car, of Kuvera at the command of Raghava, rose up in
the welkin. And in that car coursing at will and drawn by effulgent
ganders, Rama greatly delighted appeared like Kuvera (himself). And all
the monkeys, bears and the highly powerful Rakshasas sat in that
celestial car unobstructed and at their pleasure.
SECTION CXXV.
Being commanded by Rama, that excellent car, drawn by ganders, with a
huge noise, rose high up in the welkin. And casting his looks on all
sides, Rama, the descendant of Raghus, spake unto Sita, the daughter of
the king of Mithila, having a moon-like countenance, saying,--"O
Vaidehi, do thou behold Lanka, situate on the summit of the mount
Chitrakuta, resembling that of Kailaca and constructed by _Vicwakarma_.
And behold, O Sita, that huge arena of battle, bathed in the blood and
flesh of the monkeys and Rakshasas. Do thou behold, O thou having
expansive eyes, Ravana, the lord of Rakshasas, the repressor of people
and who obtained a boon, lying there, slain by me on thy account.
Kumbhakarna was slain there, the night-ranger Prahasta, as well, and
Dumraksha, were slain by the monkey Hanuman. Bidyutmali was slain there
by the high-souled Sushena--and Indrajit, the son of Ravana, was slain
there in the encounter, by Lakshmana. The Rakshasa named Bikata was
slain there by Angadi--and Birupaksha, hard to look at and Mahaparsha
and Mahodara. And the powerful Akampana was slain (there) and all other
Rakshasas--Trishira, Alikaya, Devantaka and Narantaka--and the two
leading and powerful Rakshasas, mad after conflict--the sons of
Kumbhakarna--Nikumbha and Kumbha, Bajradanstra, Danstra and many other
Rakshasas were slain and the irrepressible Makaraksha was slain (there)
by me in the conflict. Akampana was slain--and the powerful Sonitaksha.
And Yupaksha and Prajangha were destroyed (there) in the great conflict.
The grim-visaged Rakshasa Viddutsjmha was slain there--and Yajnasatru
and the highly powerful Suptaghna. (And there was slain) Suryasatru and
Brahmasatru. (And there bewailed for Ravana) his spouse Mandodari,
surrounded by his thousand other wives. O thou having an excellent
countenance, do thou behold the descending place of the ocean, where I
spent the night after crossing the deep for thee. O thou having
expansive eyes, for thee, this difficult construction of the bridge was
made by me over the deep by the help of Nala. Do thou, O Vaidehi, behold
the unagitated deep--the abode of Varuna, appearing as if without the
other end, roaring and abounding in conchs and pearl oysters. O
Maithili, do thou behold the golden mount, which rose above the deep for
affording a resting place unto Hanuman. And on the bank of this ocean I
halted with my soldiers. And here Mahadeva, the lord of the celestials,
was propitiated with me. It behoveth thee to behold this descending
place of the high-souled Ocean, known as _Setubandha_,[488] worshipped
of the three worlds, highly sacred and destroying even the worst sin.
There, Bibhishana, the king of Rakshasas first came to me. Do thou
behold, O Sita, Kishkindha, having beautiful gardens, the pleasant city
of Sugriva, where Vali was slain by me". And beholding the city of
Kishkindha, ruled over by Vali, Sita, incited by her love, addressed
Rama, with worthy words, saying--"O king, I wish to repair to Ayodhya
thy capital with thee, in the company of Tara, the dear wife of Sugriva,
as well as of the wives of other leading monkeys". Being thus addressed
by Vaidehi Raghava replied--saying, "this shall be done" and getting at
Kishkindha he stopped the car. And having beheld the car stationed he
spoke unto Sugriva, saying--"O foremost of monkeys, do thou speak unto
all the leading monkeys that they may go to Ayodhya accompanied by their
wives. O thou of great strength--they may all go with Sita. Do thou
hurry them on, O Sugriva. We shall (soon) go, O thou the lord of
monkeys". Being thus addressed by Rama, of unmitigated prowess--the
beautiful lord of monkeys, encircled by them, entered speedily the inner
apartment and beholding Tara there, said--"O dear, at the command of
Raghava and the kind desire of Sita, do thou soon go, taking with thee
the wives of all the high-souled monkeys. We shall see Ayodhya and the
wives of Dacaratha". Hearing the words of Sugriva, Tara, having a
perfectly beautiful person, assembling all the wives of the monkeys,
said--"You have been ordered by Sugriva to repair (to Ayodhya) with the
monkeys;--to behold Ayodhya, is also a dear object of mine. (I shall
behold) Rama enter the city with the citizens and villagers and the
wealth and riches of the wives of Dacaratha". Being thus commanded by
Tara, the wives of the monkeys, putting on all their ornaments and
circumambulating (her) ascended the car, with a view to behold Sita. And
beholding the car going up with them all, Raghava again spoke unto Sita,
near the mount Rishyamuka, saying,--"Do thou behold there, O Sita, the
huge and foremost mount Rishyamuka abounding in gold and various metals,
like unto clouds accompanied with lightnings. There I was joined by
Sugriva, the lord of monkeys. And there I entered into an agreement, O
Sita, for the destruction of Vali. And there is (the lake) Pampa
abounding in lilies and skirted by picturesque forest where separated
from thee, I bewailed piteously. And on its bank I beheld the pious
_Savari_. And there I slew _Kavandha_ and _Yoyanavahu_. Behold there, O
Sita, a beautiful tree, in Janasthana, where, O thou ever used to
luxuries, for thee, the highly powerful and energetic Yatayu, the
foremost of birds, was slain by Ravana. Do thou behold there, O thou of
a beautiful person, O thou of auspicious looks, our hermitage and the
beautiful cottage of leaves, wherefrom thou hadst been carried away by
force by the lord of Rakshasas. Do thou behold there the beautiful and
sacred river Godaveri having clear water and the hermitage of Agastya,
surrounded by plantain trees. Do thou behold there, O Vaidehi, the great
hermitage of _Sarabhanga_, where came the thousand-eyed, Sakra, the
subduer of enemies' cities. O worshipful dame, O thou having a middle
stature--amongst all those ascetics, thou beholdest, there lived Atri,
the lord of our family--resembling the fire of the Sun. There was slain
the huge-bodied Biradha by me. There thou didst behold, O Sita, the
female ascetic (the wife of Attri) ever performing pious observances.
There cometh in view, O thou having a beautiful person, the king of
mountains, Chitrakuta, where to propitiate me, came the son of Sumitra.
Behold the beautiful Yamuna, having picturesque forest on its bank and
the pleasant hermitage of Varadwaya. Behold there the sacred river
Ganges, dividing itself into three branches. Behold there the city of
Sringabera, where I made friendship with Guha. Behold there, O Sita, the
capital of my father. Do thou bow unto Ayodhya, O Vaidehi". Thereupon
all the monkeys and Rakshasas along with Bibhishana rose up delightedly
and saw the city. Thereupon the monkeys and Rakshasas beheld the city
abounding in white houses having spacious compartments, filled with
elephants and horses and looking like Amaravati, the capital of
Mahendra.
[488] This is still to be seen in the shape of a delapidated bridge near
_Rameswar_ a place of pilgrimage. Pilgrims go there Via Madura, a
district in South Madras. The Raja of Ramnud in whose Zemindari it
is situated is called Setupati.--T.
SECTION CXXVI.
Having completed the fourteen years (of exile), the self-controlled
elder brother of Lakshmana, arriving at the hermitage of Varadwaya on
the fifth day, saluted the ascetic. And bowing unto Varadwaya, having
asceticism for his wealth, he said,--"O thou gifted with six sorts of
wealth, hast thou heard of the prosperity and well being (of my city)?
Is Bharata still engaged (in guarding the people)? Are my mothers
living?" Being thus addressed by Rama the great ascetic Varadwaya
replied, delighted, and smiling, unto that foremost of Raghus,--"Abiding
by thy command and with matted locks, Bharata is waiting for thee,
always honoring thy sandals. And all others are well in thy house. O
subduer of thy enemies, I was greatly pained, when I saw thee before
entering the huge forest, wearing bark, three with thy wife,[489]
deprived of thy kingdom for piety only, walking on foot, renouncing
every thing, obeying the command of thy sire, deprived of all comforts,
like a celestial banished from heaven, deprived of thy kingdom at the
words of Kaikeyi, and living on wild roots and fruits; but beholding
thee now of accomplished end, with all thy friends having vanquished the
enemy, I have attained to highest delight. O Raghava, I am apprised of
immense griefs and happinesses which befell thee when thou didst live in
Janasthana. Thy blameless spouse was carried away stealthily by Ravana
engaged as thou wert in the behoof of the Brahmanas, and in the
protection of all the ascetics. The view of Maricha--the carrying away
of Sita,--the beholding of the headless demon,--thy going to (the lake)
Pampa,--thy friendship with Sugriva, where Vali was slain by thee,--the
enquiry of Vaidehi undertaken by the son of Wind-god,--the construction
of the bridge by Nala after the whereabouts of Vaidehi had been
known--the conflagration of Lanka by the delighted and the leading
monkeys--the destruction, in the conflict, of Ravana proud of his own
strength, along with his sons, friends, courtiers, army and steeds--the
arrival of the celestials on the destruction of Ravana, the thorn of
gods and the grant of boon by them--I have known all these by virtue of
my asceticism, O thou fond of virtue. My disciples used to go hence to
that city to bring tidings. I shall even now grant thee a boon, O
foremost of those using weapons. Do thou accept my _Arghya_[490] and
then repair to Ayodhya to-morrow". And respectfully abiding by his
words, that effulgent son of the king, delighted, begged of him the
boon. "O thou gifted with six qualities, on my way while proceeding to
Ayodhya, let all the trees, bearing fruits out of season, and producing
honey, bear many a nectar-smelling fruit". No sooner he replied
saying,--"Thy promise shall be fulfilled" than all the trees there
became like those of heaven. Trees without fruits were filled
therewithal and trees without flowers were covered with them. All the
trees, whose leaves were dried up, were enveloped with foliage and all
of them began to pour honey. The way to Ayodhya for three _yojanas_ was
thus filled all over (with trees). Thereupon thousands of monkeys,
living, at pleasure and delightedly, on various celestial fruits,
thought as if they were in heaven.
[489] _i.e._ thyself, Lakshmana and Sita.
[490] A respectful oblation to gods or venerable men of rice, _durva_
grass, flowers &c with water in a small boat-shaped vessel.
SECTION CXXVII.
Thereupon beholding Ayodhya, Rama, the descendant of Raghu, of light
movements and desirous of affording delight unto others, thought of
welcoming (them). Thinking thus the intelligent and effulgent (Rama)
cast his looks towards the monkeys and spoke unto Hanuman, saying,--"O
foremost of monkeys, speedily reparing to Ayodhya do thou learn of the
welfare of all people in the palace of the king. Arriving at the city of
Sringavera, do thou communicate unto Guha, the king of _Nishadhas_[491]
having the forest as his kingdon, my well-being, at my command. Hearing
that I am hale and hearty and relieved of all troubles, Guha, my friend
like my own self, shall attain to delight. And Guha, the lord of
_Nishadhas_, delighted, shall inform thee of the way to Ayodhya and the
well being of Bharata. Do thou ask of Bharata his well-being at my
words, and communicate unto him my (arrival) with Lakshmana and my
spouse after having made good the vow (of my sire)--the carrying away of
Sita by the powerful Ravana--the friendship with Sugriva and the
destruction of Vali in the conflict--the search of Maithili instituted
by thee having got over the huge lord of rivers--the advance (of the
monkeys) to the banks of the deep--the view of the ocean, the
construction of the bridge--the destruction of Ravana,--the grant of
boon by Mahendra, Brahma and Varuna--my meeting with my father by the
favour of Mahadeva. Do thou, O gentle one, communicate unto Bharata, my
arrival here with the lord of Rakshasas and king of monkeys. (Tell him)
'vanquishing his foes and attaining to excellent fame Rama hath arrived
at the gate of the city with his valiant friends, having satisfied the
vow (of his sire).' Thou shouldst read the signs expressive of joy or
sorrow that Bharata shall display on hearing this and infer therefrom
his attitude towards me. Thou shouldst know, from the colour of his
countenance, his looks and his words, all the movements and actions of
Bharata. Whose mind doth not change obtaining such an ancestral kingdom,
filled with all prosperity and abounding in elephants, horses and
chariots? If the effulgent Bharata, the descendant of Raghu, ruling over
it, wisheth the kingdom for himself, let him lord over the entire earth.
Therefore, O monkey, it behoveth thee to come back speedily apprised of
his intention and movements, before we proceed further". Being thus
commanded, Hanuman, the son of Wind-god, assuming a human shape speedily
proceeded towards Ayodhya. Hanuman the son of Maruta rose up in the
welkin with velocity like unto Garuda ready to fall upon a huge serpent.
Then crossing the Wind-path and the abode of the birds, getting over the
terrible confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna, reaching the city of
_Sringavera_ and meeting Guha, the energetic Hanuman, delighted,
(addressed him) with the following excellent words--"Thy friend Rama,
the descendant of Kakutstha, having truth for his prowess, with Sita and
son of Sumitra, hath enquired of thy welfare. Having spent five
nights[492] till to-day, he, having obtained permission from the ascetic
_Varadwaja_, shall proceed to-morrow". Having said this the highly
energetic monkey, not caring for the exhaustion of travel, greatly
delighted and with hairs erect, rose up with great velocity. Beholding
the holy river sanctified with the name of Parasurama, the
rivers--Balukini, Baruthi, Gomati, the huge forest of _Sala_ trees, the
various countries populated with thousands of people, and proceeding a
great distance speedily, that foremost of monkeys got at the trees near
_Nandigram_[493] like unto those of Chaitraratha, the garden of the lord
of celestials the flowers whereof were being plucked off by many a
damsel accompanied by their children decked in various ornaments. He saw
at a distance of one _crosa_ from Ayodhya, Bharata wearing the skin of
an antelope, poorly, greatly reduced, living in a hermitage, wearing
matted hairs, having his body covered with dirt, greatly pulled down in
consequence of his brother's disaster, living on roots and fruits,
self-controlled; living the life of an ascetic, observing pious
observances, with a bundle of clotted hairs on his head, wearing bark
and deer skin, having control over his passions and senses, effulgent
like _Brahmarshis_, ruling the earth always placing the sandals before
him, protecting people of four _Varnas_ against all fear, with
courtiers, priests leading a holy life and soldiers all wearing red
clothes; around him. All those citizens, fond of piety, did not like to
use good clothes beholding the prince use bark and deer skin. Thereupon
Hanuman, the son of Maruta spake with folded hands unto him, conversant
with piety like virtue incarnate, saying--"Kakutstha, living in the
forest of Dandaka with bark and matted hairs, for whom thou art
lamenting, hath enquired after thy welfare. Do thou, O worshipful sire,
speak out thy welfare and renounce the dreadful grief. Thou shalt in
this moment be reconciled to thy brother Rama. Slaying Ravana, and
regaining Maithili, Rama, having accomplished his end, hath arrived here
with his valiant friends. The highly effulgent Lakshmana and the famed
Vaidehi (have also come). Sita fareth well with Rama like unto Sachi in
the company of Mahendra". Being thus addressed by Hanuman, Bharata, the
son of Kaikeyi, delighted, fell down all on a sudden in a swoon of joy.
Thereupon rising up in no time, and welcoming him, Bharata, the
descendant of Raghu, spake unto Hanuman communicating the pleasant
tidings, the following words. And embracing the monkey respectfully the
graceful Bharata sprinkled him with profuse tears not out of grief but
of joy. He said,--"Art thou a man or god who hast kindly come here? O
gentle one, I shall confer upon thee, who hast communicated unto me this
pleasant tidings, hundreds and thousands of kine, hundreds of prosperous
villages, sixteen young wives, pious, wearing excellent _Kundalas_,
golden-hued, having beautiful noses and breasts, having moon-like
countenances, decked with all ornaments and born of respectable
families". And hearing from that leading monkey of that wonderful return
of Rama, the son of the king, delighted became anxious to behold him and
again addressed joyously Hanuman with the following words.
[491] A low caste aboriginal Hindu corresponding to our _Chandalas_
always living in the forest. The Raja of Ramnud in the district of
Madura in Madras traces his descent from this Guha.
[492] Having spent five nights after the expiry of fourteen years of
exile he is living at the hermitage of Varadwaja. He shall leave
that place to-morrow.--T.
[493] The country of Bharata's maternal uncle.--T.
SECTION CXXVIII.
"I hear the tidings of my brother affording me great delight who hath
been living in the huge forest for many a year. The saying of the people
appeareth to me as instinct with well meaning that a man, if alive, may
attain to joy even after a century. Do thou relate truly unto me, how
and in what country the union between Raghava and the monkeys was
brought about". Being thus accosted by the prince and seated on Kuca,
he, thereupon, began to describe Rama's life in the forest. "How Rama
was exiled, the two boons conferred upon thy mother, how king Dacaratha
died in consequence of (his) son's grief, how by emissaries, O lord,
thou wert brought up from the house of thy maternal uncle, how thou
didst not wish for the kingdom having entered Ayodhya, how thy brother,
the repressor of enemies, was solicited by thee for accepting the
kingdom, reparing to the mount Chitrakuta, who hast ever wended the
track of the pious, the renouncement of kingdom (by him) abiding by the
words of the king, thy return after taking the sandals of thy revered
(brother)--all these, O thou of long-arms, are known to thee. I shall
relate unto thee all that happened after thy return. Thyself having
returned thence, all the birds and animals were overwhelmed with terror
and that forest appeared as if distressed. Thereupon he entered the
solitary and huge and dreadful forest Dandaka distressed by the
elephants and abounding in lions, tigers and deer. And they entering the
dense forest there appeared before them the powerful Biradha[494]
emitting a dreadful sound. And taking him up roaring aloud like an
elephant Rama threw him with his arms upwards and face downwards into a
pit. Having accomplished that difficult work the two brothers Rama and
Lakshmana, arrived in the evening at the pleasant hermitage of
_Sarabhanga_. And _Sarabhanga_ having attained to heaven, Rama, having
truth for his prowess, saluting all the ascetics, repaired to
Janasthana. And by the high-souled Raghava, living there, fourteen
thousand inhabitants of Janasthana were slain. In the company of one
person only and at the commencement of the fight, by Rama, within the
one fourth part of a day, were exterminated all the highly powerful and
valiant inhabitants of the forest of Dandaka always putting obstructions
in the way of the ascetics. All the Rakshasas were grinded (to death) by
Raghava. Khara was slain in the conflict; Dushana being slain first
Trishira was slain thereafter by him. Thereafter (a she-demon) named
Surpanakha, came to the side of Rama. Thereupon being commanded by Rama,
the highly powerful Lakshmana rose up all on a sudden and taking a
dagger chopped off her ears and nose. Being thus insulted by him that
she-demon came to Ravana. Thereupon a dreadful Rakshasa named
Maricha--an attendant of Ravana, assuming the shape of a jewelled deer,
allured Vaidehi. And beholding it, Vaidehi spake unto Rama, saying,--'Do
thou catch it; with it when caught our hermitage shall be more
charming.' Thereupon Rama, with bow in his hand, pursued that deer and
with one shaft destroyed it. O gentle one, Raghava going out on hunting,
and Lakshmana having issued out of the hermitage, the Ten-necked (demon)
entered therein. And he speedily got hold of Sita, like unto Rohini
possessed by the planet in the sky. Thereupon slaying the vulture Yatayu
in the conflict desirous of rescuing her and getting hold of Sita that
Rakshasa speedily repaired (to his capital). Thereupon some monkeys
resembling mountains, stationed on the summit of a mountain, stricken
with wondrous fear and astonishment, beheld Ravana, the lord of
Rakshasas proceed with Sita. Ascending the car _Puskpaka_, going at
will, with Vaidehi and hastening his course that highly powerful Ravana,
the lord of Rakshasas entered Lanka. And entering the huge and excellent
golden palace Ravana consoled Maithili with (diverse) words. But she
regarded that foremost of Rakshasas and his words as straw. And Vaidehi
was placed in the forest of Asoka. Thereupon returned Rama after having
slain the deer in the forest. Having returned and seen the vulture,
dearer than his father, slain, Rama, the descendant of Kakutstha was
pained. And searching Vaidehi and ranging at the banks of Godaveri and
forest-lands covered with flowers, Rama with Lakshmana, met in that huge
forest a Rakshasa named Kavandha. Thereupon at the words of Kavandha,
Rama, having truth for his prowess, repairing to the mount Rishyamuka,
was united with Sugriva. There had grown mutual love in them before they
were known to each other. Sugriva was driven away by his angry brother
Vali. And informed of each other's affairs their friendship grew closer.
There-upon slaying the huge-bodied and highly powerful Vali in the
conflict by virtue of the strength of his own arms Rama obtained (for
Sugriva) his own kingdom. And being placed on the throne with all the
monkeys, Sugriva promised unto Rama the enquiry of the Princess (Sita).
Being commanded by the high-souled Sugriva, the lord of monkeys, ten
_kotis_ of monkeys repaired to (various) quarters. Among them some of us
lost our way in a cavity of the Vindhya mountain, and were striken with
great terror--and accordingly much time was lost. The powerful brother
of the king of vultures named Sampati communicated unto us the residence
of Sita in the palace of Ravana. Thereupon removing the grief of my
relatives stricken with sorrow and resorting to my own prowess, I jumped
over a hundred _yojanas_ and beheld her placed in the forest of Asoka,
wearing a red cloth, pale, deprived of all joy and observing strict
penances. And then nearing her and beholding her of a perfectly
blameless person I bestowed upon her an ensign a ring with Rama's name
engraven on it. And obtaining a jewel as an ensign, I, with my object
accomplished, returned. And having returned I presented Rama of
unwearied actions with that ensign of a brilliant gem. And hearing (of
the news of Vaidehi) Rama regained his life like one on the verge of
death regaining his being after drinking nectar. And exciting (his
soldiers) for making preparations like unto Fire about to destroy all
people he made up his mind for the devastation of Lanka. Thereupon
arriving at the banks of the ocean he had a bridge constructed by Nala
by which the army of monkey-heroes crossed (the deep). Nala destroyed
Prahasta, Raghava slew Kumbhakarna, Lakshmana killed the son of Ravana
and Rama himself slew Ravana. He was then met by Sakra, Yama, Varuna,
Siva, Brahma and Dacaratha. And that graceful descendant of Kakutstha,
the slayer of foes, obtained the boon from them as well as from the
saints assembled there--(celestial and otherwise). Having obtained the
boon he, delighted, met the monkeys and in the car _Pushpaka_ reached
Kishkindha. Again reaching the Ganges he is living with the ascetic; it
becometh thee to behold him to-morrow under the auspices of of
Pushya,[495] without any hindrance". Thereupon being delighted with the
sweet accents of Hanuman, Bharata addressed him, with folded hands, with
words affording delight, saying,--"After a long time my desire hath been
fulfilled".
[494] A demon of that name.
[495] The lunar asterism comprising three stars of which one is the
Cancer.
SECTION CXXIX.
Hearing those words affording great delight, Bharata, the slayer of
enemies, having truth for his prowess, delighted, ordered Satrughna,
(saying),--"Let all people being purified worship all the deities and
altars of the city with fragrant garlands and diverse music. Let all the
bards conversant with the chanting of the pedigree, the flatterers, all
those conversant with music, the dancing girls, the queens, the
courtiers, the soldiers with their wives, Brahmanas, Kshatryas, and
people of all other castes, issue out to behold the moon-like
countenance of Rama". Hearing the words of Bharata, Satrughna, the
slayer of enemies, divided the work amongst the servants, (saying),--"Do
ye level the high and low ground from Nandigram to (Ayodhya). Do ye
perfectly water the ground with cold water. Thereafter sprinkle all the
places with flowers and dried paddy; hoist up flags all over the city;
decorate all the houses, before the rising of the moon with garlands,
jewels, flowers of gold and things of five other colours. Let hundreds
of men watch the thorough-fares". Hearing the command of Satrughna,
issued out with delight Dhristi, Jayanta, Vijaya, Siddartha,
Arthasadhaka, Asoka, Mantrapala and Sumantra. Thereupon issued out men
on horse back and in cars with thousands of mad elephants well-decked
with pennons and she-elephants with golden seats (on their backs). And
some heroes proceeded encircled by a thousand excellent steeds and
persons carrying _Sakti_, _Risthi_, maces and pennons and thousands of
infantry. Thereupon proceeded Sumitra and all other wives of Dacaratha
placing Kaucalya before them and seated in excellent conveyances. And
hearing of the return of his brother and attaining to delight, the
high-souled and pious Bharata, reduced with fasting, poorly, wearing
bark and skin of an antelope and conversant with religion, issued out to
receive back Rama in the company of his counsellors and encircled by the
twice-born ones, the people of diverse castes, his own relations and
kinsmen and ministers with garlands and _Modaka_[496] in their hands,
eulogized by the bards, having his arrival announced with the sound of
conchs and bugles and placing the sandals of his worshipful brother on
his head and taking white umbrella adorned with white garlands and white
_Chowries_ decked with gold and worthy of being used by the kings.
Thereupon with the sound of the horses' hoofs and cars, conchs and
bugles the earth shook. And the whole city went to Nandigram. And
beholding the Wind-god's son, Bharata said,--"Didst thou not resort to
the usual fickleness of the monkeys? We do not behold the worshipful
Rama, the descendant of Kakutstha--the slayer of foes. Nor do we behold
the monkeys assuming shapes at will". Having been addressed with those
words, Hanuman replied, communicating unto Bharata, having truth for his
prowess, the truth,--"Having reached the trees, covered by the favour of
Varadwaja, with fruits and flowers and pouring honey, the monkeys are
emitting noise like maddened black bees. O slayer of foes, this boon was
granted him (Rama) by Vasava. (Varadwaya) is treating him with his army
with all hospitality. Hear the dreadful noise of the delighted monkeys.
Methinks the monkey host hath crossed the river Gomati. Behold the huge
upheaval of dust towards the _Sala_ forest. Methinks the monkeys are
agitating the graceful _Sala_ forest. Behold there at the distance the
car resembling the Sun. This celestial car _Pashpaka_, constructed by
Brahma's mind, was obtained by the high-souled (Rama) after having slain
Ravana with his friends. This celestial car, resembling the newly risen
Sun, coursing at will and carrying Rama (was gained) by the favour of
the Giver of wealth. (There are) the two heroic brothers--the
descendants of Raghu with Yaidehi, the highly effulgent Sugriva and the
Rakshasa Bibhishana. Thereupon with the sound of "there is Rama" there
arose a joyous noise reaching the abode of the celestials from among
women, children, the young and the old. Thereupon descending upon the
earth from chariots, elephants and horses all people beheld him (Rama)
stationed on the car like unto the moon in the sky. And facing Raghava
and with folded hands Bharata delightedly worshipped him with agreeable
words, _Arghya_ and water to wash his feet. There appeared in the car
constructed by Brahma's mind the elder brother of Bharata having
expansive eyes like the immortal wielder of thunder-bolt. Thereupon
Bharata humbly saluted his brother Rama seated on the top of the car
like unto the Sun on the summit (of the mount Meru). And commanded by
Rama that excellent car drawn by ganders got down on the earth with
great velocity. And ascending that car, Bharata, having truth for his
prowess, reaching Rama, delighted, again bowed unto him. And raising
Bharata up who had been seen after a long time and placing him on his
lap Kakutstha, delighted, embraced him. There-upon Bharata, the slayer
of foes, bowed unto Vaidehi and welcomed Lakshmana. And the son of
Kaikeyi (then in turn) embraced Sugriva, Jambavana, Angada, Mainda,
Dwivida, Nila and Rishava. And he then embraced Sushena, Nala, Gabaksha,
Gandhamadana, Sarabha, and Panasa. And assuming human shapes, those
monkeys, assuming shapes at will, delightedly enquired after Bharata's
well-being. And embracing Sugriva, the foremost of monkeys, the highly
effulgent prince Bharata, the foremost of the pious, said--" O Sugriva,
thou art our fifth brother. From brotherliness groweth friendship and
doing injury is the sign of an enemy". And Bharata then addressed
Bibhishana with soothing words--"It is by fortune that through your help
he hath accomplished such a difficult work". Thereupon the heroic
Satrughna saluting Rama and Lakshmana, respectfully bowed unto Sita. And
having approached his mother, pale and pulled down with grief, Rama
humbly touched her feet and enhanced her delight. And thereupon saluting
Sumitra, famed Kaikeyi and all his mothers he approached the priests.
Thereupon all the citizens with folded hands welcomed him
saying--"Welcome art thou, O thou of long arms! O thou the enhancer of
Kaucalya's joy!" And the elder brother of Bharata observed the folded
hands of the citizens like so many blown lotuses. And himself taking the
sandals of Rama, Bharata, conversant with piety, placed them at the feet
of that lord of men. Thereupon Bharata with folded hands spoke unto
Rama, saying--"This all thy kingdom, which thou didst leave to my care,
I return thee. Blessed is my birth to-day and accomplished is my desire,
since I behold thee again as king in Ayodhya after thy return. Do thou
examine thy wealth, treasury, palace and army. By thy favour I have
increased all these ten fold". Hearing Bharata speak in that wise and
beholding him devoted to his brother all the monkeys and the Rakshasa
Bibhishana shed tears. Thereupon placing Bharata, in delight, on his
lap, Raghava, with his army in that car, proceeded towards Bharata's
abode. And reaching Bharata's palace Raghava with his army descended
upon the earth. Thereupon Rama said to the excellent car--"Do thou (now)
go to _Vaisravana_--I do permit thee". Thereupon being thus commanded by
Rama, that excellent car, proceeding towards the north, reached the
abode of the Giver of wealth. That celestial car _Pushpaka_ had been
taken away by the Rakshasa (Ravana); but now at the words of Rama it
reached (again) the Giver of wealth. And touching the feet of his priest
the powerful Raghava sat on a separate and excellent seat like unto
Sakra, the lord of immortals (by the side of) _Vrihashpati_.
[496] A kind of sweet meat.
SECTION CXXX.
Thereupon having placed her palms on his head Bharata, the enhancer of
Kaikeyi's joy, spoke unto his elder brother Rama, having truth for his
prowess, saying,--"Abiding by my mother's request thou didst confer this
kingdom upon me; I do return thee the kingdom thou didst give me. Like
unto a young one unable to carry a heavy burden thrown off by a powerful
bull I am unable to carry this huge burden (of the kingdom). I do
consider this kingdom infested with thieves, difficult to govern, as it
is difficult to re-construct a bridge broken down by a powerful current
of water. As an ass cannot follow the course of a horse and a crow
cannot follow that of a gander, so I am unable, O hero, O slayer of
foes, to follow thy footsteps. If a tree planted in the inner appartment
of a house, growing huge with a big trunk and many branches, is dried up
as soon it blossoms without bearing fruits, his object for whom it is
planted, becomes fruitless. And this simili, O thou of long-arms, shall
prove good in thee, if dost thou not, our master, govern us, O lord of
men, who are thy servants. Let the world, O Raghava, behold thee
installed (to-day) like unto the powerful mid-day Sun burning in
effulgence. Do thou sleep and rise up with the sound of stringed
instruments, womens' girdles and _Nupuras_ and charming songs. Do thou
govern the people as long as the solar system exists and as far as the
earth extends". Hearing the words of Bharata, Rama the conqueror of
enemies' cities, saying,--"So be it" sat on an excellent seat. Thereupon
at the command of Satrughna, expert, skilful and quick-handed barbers
gathered round Raghava. At first, Bharata, the highly powerful
Lakshmana, Sugriva the lord of monkeys, and Bibhishana the lord of
Rakshasas bathed. Thereupon shorn of his matted hairs, bathed, with
paste excellent garlands and precious clothes on, he appeared there
shining in grace. The valiant and graceful Satrughna, the upholder of
the dignity of Ikshwaku race, himself got ready the dresses for Rama and
Lakshmana. And all the high-minded wives of Dacaratha with their own
hands decked Sita with various charming (ornaments). Thereupon Kaucalya,
delighted and fond of her son, herself with great care, decorated the
wives of monkeys. Thereupon at the words of Satrughna, the charioteer by
name Sumantra got ready the perfectly beautiful car. And beholding that
celestial car, bright as the fire of the sun, stationed before him,
Rama, having long arms, the conqueror of enemies' cities, ascended it.
Sugriva and Hanuman, graceful like Mahendra, bathed, dressed in
celestial clothes and wearing excellent _Kundalas_, proceeded (to view
the city). And then went Sita and all the wives of Sugriva decorated
with all ornaments and wearing excellent _Kundalas_, anxious to behold
the city. All the ministers of king Dacaratha in Ayodhya began to hold
consultation respectfully with the priest. Asoka, Vijaya and Siddhartha,
with undivided mind, consulted with each other about the welfare of Rama
as well as that of the city. (Thereupon they ordered the servants)
saying,--"Do ye collect materials necessary for the auspicious
installation of the high-souled (Rama) worthy of being crowned with
victory". The priest and the ministers having ordered thus all speedily
issued out of the city to behold Rama. Like unto the thousand-eyed Indra
in his car drawn by horses the blameless Rama, seated in his car,
proceeded towards the excellent city. Bharata took up the reins,
Satrughna held the umbrella and Lakshmana began to fan him on the head
with _Chowries_. And Bibhishana, the lord of Rakshasas standing on one
side, took up the white _Chowrie_ shining like the second moon. There
was audible the sweet encomium of Rama chanted by the crowd of ascetics
in the sky, the celestials and the Marutas. Thereupon the highly
effulgent Sugriva, the foremost of monkeys, got up upon an elephant
named _Satrunyaya_ resembling a mountain. And riding nine thousand
elephants proceeded the monkeys assuming human shapes and adorned with
various ornaments. And with the music of conches and bugles that
foremost of men entered the city abounding in houses. (And the citizens)
beheld Raghava enter the city with a graceful person and seated in the
car. And they having bowed unto that descendant of Kakutstha were
welcomed by him. And they followed that high-souled one encircled by his
brothers. And surrounded by his courtiers, Brahmanas and subjects Rama
appeared beautiful like unto the Moon encircled by stars. And he went
proceeded by men who play on stringed instruments, by people with
_Karatal_ and Sustika in their hands and by men chanting delightedly
auspicious songs. Persons with Akshata and gold in their hands, kine,
girls, Brahmanas and persons with _Modaka_ in their hands went before
Rama. Thereupon before the ministers Rama began to describe the
friendship of Sugriva, the prowess of the Wind-god's son and the works
accomplished by the monkeys. And hearing of the works of the monkeys and
the prowess of the Rakshasas, the inhabitants of the city of Ayodhya
attained to astonishment. Having related thus (the works of the monkeys)
the graceful Rama encircled by the monkeys entered (the city of) Ayodhya
abounding in delighted and plump persons. Thereupon the citizens hoisted
up flags upon every house and he reached the picturesque abode of his
ancestors inhabited by the descendants of Ikshwaku. And having reached
and entered his ancestral palace and bowed unto Kaucalya, Sumitra and
Kaikeyi, the high-souled prince, the enhancer of the joy of the
descendants of Raghu, addressed Bharata the foremost of the pious, with
sweet words instinct with meaning, saying,--"Do thou set apart for
Sugriva my huge and excellent palace abounding in pearls and
_Vaidurjas_". Hearing those words, Bharata, having truth for his
prowess, taking Sugriva by the hand, conducted him to the palace. And
commanded by Satrughna, (servants) speedily entered (that palace) with
oil, lamps, bedsteads and beddings. Thereupon the highly effulgent
younger brother of Raghava spoke unto Sugriva, saying,--"Do thou, O
lord, order some (to bring water) for Rama's installation". And Sugriva
conferred upon four leading monkeys four golden jars crested with
diverse jewels and said to them,--"Do ye so conduct, O monkeys, that ye
may return by the dawn with the jars filled with the water of the four
oceans". Being thus addressed by the high-souled (Sugriva) the monkeys
resembling the elephants speedily rose up in the welkin like unto
quick-coursing vultures. Jambavana, Hanuman, the monkey Vegadarshi and
Rishabha brought the jars filled with water from five hundred rivers.
Sushena, gifted with prowess, brought that jar crested with gems, filled
with water from the Eastern Ocean. And Rishabha speedily brought water
from the Southern Ocean. And Gabaya brought, from the great Western
Ocean in that golden jar, water perfumed with the fragrance of red
sandal and camphor. And the virtuous-souled Wind-god's son, gifted with
all accomplishments and the prowess of Garuda and Wind-god, brought,
speedily from the Northern Ocean, water in that jewelled jar. And
beholding water thus brought by the leading monkeys for the installation
of Rama, Satrughna, with his ministers, communicated that unto the
leading priests and friends. Thereupon the self-controlled Vasishtha,
striken in years, along with other Brahmanas placed Rama with Sita on a
jewelled seat. Vasishtha, Vijaya, Javali, Katyayana, Goutama and
Bamadeva, sprinkled that foremost of men, with clear and fragrant water
as Vasus did the thousand eyed Vasava. (He was then sprinkled by) the
_Rittigas_, Brahmanas, maidens ministers, soldiers and the merchants all
delighted. (There-upon) with the juice of _Oshadhis_[497] (he was
sprinkled by) the celestials stationed in the sky, the deities presiding
over the four quarters and all other celestials collected. And having
placed him on a seat crested with various jewels in the arena decorated
with gold, various jewels and rich parapharnalia, (he placed on his
head) the jewelled crown made by Brahma, brilliant and with which in the
days of yore Manu and other kings, born in his race, were installed. And
being decked by the high-souled Vasishtha with that crown, Raghava was
afterwards dressed with the celestial garments by the _Rittigas_.[498]
And Satrughna held the white and excellent umbrella and Sugriva the lord
of monkeys took the white _Chowrie_. And Bibhishana the lord of
Rakshasas took up another _Chowrie_ resembling the moon. And the wind
commanded by Vasava conferred upon Raghava, a garland of a hundred
golden lotuses, shining in their native lustre. And the wind commanded
by Sakra conferred upon that lord of men a jewelled garland crested with
diverse gems. The intelligent and worthy Rama being installed the
celestials and the Gandharvas sang and the Apsaras danced. The earth was
filled with crops, the trees with fruits and the flowers were fragrant
on the occassion of Raghava's installation. And that foremost of men
conferred upon the twice-born ones one million of horses, a hundred
thousand cows and a hundred thousand bulls. And Raghava again conferred
upon the Brahmanas thirty _crores_ of golden coins and diverse costly
ornaments and clothes. Thereupon that lord of men conferred upon Sugriva
a celestial garland brilliant like the rays of the Sun and crested with
gold and jewels. And he, gifted with intelligence, conferred upon
Angada, Vali's son, two _Angadas_[499] brilliant as the rays of the moon
and made of _Baidurja_. And Rama conferred upon Sita an excellent pearl
necklace crested with precious jems, celestial clothes and various
excellent ornaments. And taking off the necklace from her person
Vaidehi, the daughter of king Janaka, conferred it upon the Wind-god's
son remembering the services (rendered by him) and cast her looks again
and again upon her lord and the monkeys. And beholding that (Rama)
capable of reading the gestures, spoke unto the daughter of king Janaka,
saying--"O fortunate and beautiful lady, do thou confer this necklace
upon him with whom thou art pleased". Thereupon the lotus-eyed (Sita)
conferred that upon the Wind god's son. And Hanuman, the foremost of
monkeys, in whom perpetually exist, energy, forgiveness, fame,
skillfullness, prowess, humility, tactics, manliness, valiance and
intellect, appeared with that necklace like a mountain beautified with
the rays of the moon and white clouds. And all other elderly and leading
monkeys were respectively honoured with clothes and ornaments. And being
honoured by Rama of unwearied actions with enough of jewels and other
wished-for objects, Bibhishana, Sugriva, Hanuman, Jambavan and other
leading monkeys, delighted, returned to their respective habitations.
Thereupon, the lord of earth and the slayer of foes conferred, all
wished-for things, upon Dwivida, Mainda and Nila. And beholding (the
installation of Rama) the high-souled monkeys, taking leave of the lord
of earth, went to Kishkindha. And beholding the inauguration of Rama,
Sugriva, the foremost of monkeys, honored by Rama, repaired to the city
of Kishkindha. And having obtained his own kingdom, the greatly famous
and virtuous-souled Bibhishana, with all the Rakshasas, repaired to the
city of Lanka. Having slain his foes, the highly generous and glorious
Rama, ruled in great delight, the kingdom extending all over the earth.
And Rama, fond of the pious, spoke unto Lakshmana, conversant with
piety; saying--"O thou conversant with piety, do thou with me and
four-fold forces, govern this kingdom, ruled by our predecessors. Like
unto our ancestors do thou now carry the burden of an associate in the
throne". When the son of Sumitra did not accept the heir apparentship
albeit solicited earnestly again and again, the high-souled (Rama)
conferred upon Bharata that dignity. And that son of king performed
various sacrifices such as _Paundarika_,[500] _Aswamedha_,[501]
_Bajimedha_ and others. And governing the kingdon for ten thousand years
Raghava performed ten horse-sacrifices with excellent horses and profuse
presents. And that highly powerful Rama, having his arms extended up to
the knee-joint, having a spacious breast and Lakshmana as his attendant,
ruled the earth (in this wise). And obtaining that excellent kingdom,
the virtuous-souled Raghava performed many sacrifices with his sons,
brothers and friends. And Rama governing the kingdom, the widows were
not distressed and there was no fear from voracious animals or from
diseases. The people were saved from the thieves and there was no other
trouble. And the old were not constrained to perform the funeral
ceremonies of the children. All were delighted and devoted to pious
observances. And beholding Rama they did not envy one another. And Rama
governing the kingdom, (people) lived for a thousand years and had a
thousand children,--they were freed from diseases and sorrow. And the
trees bore fruits and flowers perpetually--there were showers at will
and the wind blew pleasant. And the people delighted engaged in their
respective works and the subjects grew pious and truthful, under Rama's
regime, and were devoted to the observance of all pious works and gifted
with all auspicious marks. And Rama ruled the kingdom for ten thousand
years. And this sacred Epic, the first of its kind, affording piety,
fame, and long life, and describing the conquest of the kings, was
composed by Valmiki in the days of yore. He, who on this earth, shall
hear (this story) shall be divested of sins. People, wishing for
children, shall obtain the same and those, wishing for riches, shall get
by them. Thus people on this earth shall attain to their wished-for
objects hearing of this Rama's installation--the king may conquer the
earth and subdue his foes. Females may obtain sons (in the same way) as
Kaucalya gave birth to Rama, Sumitra to Lakshmana and Kaikeyi to
Bharata. Hearing the story of this work describing the victory of Rama
of unwearied actions one may attain to a long life. He, who with
devotion and having his anger subdued, shall hear the story of this epic
written by Valmiki in the days of yore shall get over all troubles. And
hearing the story of the Epic composed by Valmiki in the days of yore,
one living in foreign countries, shall return home and enjoy in the
company of his friends. Hearing this people shall secure all their
wished-for objects from Raghava and the celestials shall be greatly
delighted. When this book is kept in a house it becomes free from the
disturbance of evil spirits. Hearing this a king may conquer the earth,
and one living in a foreign country fareth well. If a female, during her
monthly course, hears the story, she shall give birth to an excellent
son. By reading and worshipping this ancient history people are freed
from all sins and attain to a long life. The Kshatryas, bending low
their heads, should hear this daily from the Brahmanas. Hearing or
reading the whole of Ramayana, forsooth shall people get sons and
riches. Rama is ever pleased with him. He is the ever-existing
Vishnu--the first God, the huge-armed Hari, Narayana and Lord. This
ancient work produceth such fruits. May good betide ye. Do ye openly
declare that Vishnu's prowess may increase. The celestials shall be
greatly delighted for reading or hearing this story of Rama and the
progenitors shall be always pleased. Those, who shall write this story
of Rama first recorded by the Rishi (Valmiki) shall reach the region of
Brahma. Hearing this people attain to, on this earth, multiplied
relations, increased wealth and crops, beautiful wives, excellent
happiness, and the accomplishment of all desires. They attain to long
life, health, fame, intellect, prowess, and good brothers. Therefore it
behoveth those good men, who wish for prosperity, to hear this story
perpetually.
[497] A domestic chaplain--a family priest.
[498] An annual plant or herb--one that dies after becoming ripe.
[499] A kind of ornament worn on upper arms.
[500] A kind of sacrifice.
[501] A kind of sacrifice in which a horse is slain.
THE END OF YUDDHAKANDAM.