RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – I [5]

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RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – I [5]

The Rama Story, Stream of Sacred Sweetness

As told by the Divine Lord Himself in the present Avatar as Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Chapter 7(d)Winning Sita

Sudhama took with him a group of courtiers and scholars and royal priests; he

got ready tastefully decorated chariots to bring the Imperial Party and reached

the Palace where Dasaratha was staying. He submitted to him sweetly and softly,

the message he had brought, and with profound obeisance, invited him to the

palace of Janaka. Dasaratha was ready; he moved out with his entourage and

reached the Durbar Hall of Janaka, very soon. They greeted each other as

befitted the occasion and their respective status and occupied the seats laid

for them.

Then Dasaratha rose and said, "Janaka! For the Ikshwaku Dynasty, the sage

Vasishtha is God on Earth! He is our supreme preceptor. He can speak with full

authority on the traditions of our dynasty". As soon as Dasaratha sat down,

Vasishtha stood before the assembly and spoke as follows:

"Royal Sage! Listen, all those who have assembled! Brahman, the Unmanifested

Supreme, the Eternal, the Pure, through the exercise of Will created Marichi;

Marichi’s son was Kasyapa and his son was Surya; Surya’s son was Manu, Manu had

a son named Vaivaswatha Manu; he ruled over the people and earned the

appellation, Prajapati. A son Ikshwaku was born to him; he was the first

overlord of Ayodhya; and so the dynasty itself came to be called the Ikshwaku

Line. Ikshvaku’s son was Kukshi. Kukshi's son was named Vikukshi. His son was

Bana; Bana's son was Anaranya; Anaranya had a son who was named Trisanku.

Trisanku's son was Dhundhumara,

Dhundhumara’s son was Yuvanaswa; Mandhata was the son of Yuvanaswa; his son

Susandhi had two sons, Daivasandhi and Presenjit. The famous Bharata was the

son of Daivasandhi. Bharatha’s son was Asitha; when Asitha was ruling the

kingdom, a coalition of the Haihayas, Thalajanghas and Sasibindus invaded the

realm and Asitha had to flee to the Himalayan region with his two queens. He

took refuge in the region called Bhrgu Prasravana and after a few years passed

away there itself.

"Both his queens were enceinte when he died. They sought asylum in the hermitage

of Chyavana who was filled with compassion at their plight; he consoled them,

saying, 'Mothers! Do not entertain any fear. This is your very home. You will

have safe delivery; you will have strong splendor-filled fortunate babies’. His

blessing came true. Within a few days, the elder queen delivered a son named

Sagara; and, he was installed as the emperor of Ayodhya. "His son was Asamanja,

who had a son called Amsumantha; Amsumantha's son was Dileepa, whose son was

named Bhagiratha. Bhagiratha begot Kakustha. Kakustha’s son was Raghu. Raghu

had a son, Pravardha. Pravardha had Sudarsana as son and Sudarsana, Agnivarna.

Seeghraga was the name of the son of Agnivarna. Maru was the name of the son of

Seeghraga. After him, the throne

came from father to son, to Prasusruka, Ambarisha and Nahusha, in succession.

"Nahusha's son was Yayathi and Yayathi's son was Nabhaga. Nabhaga had Aja

[compare with Chapter 2] as his son. Dasaratha is the eldest son of Aja, and

his four sons, a precious jewel each one, are Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and

Satrughna. Rama, the eldest of the four, raised, bent, strung and broke the Bow

of Siva.

"0 Royal Sage! This royal dynasty is sacred and pure. Every one born in this

line has earned spiritual illumination and has shone in spiritual splendor.

They are rooted in righteousness, and, withal, are in the front rank of heroes.

Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrughna are precious lamps that shed luster on

the annals of the clan.

"I must now suggest that it would be desirable to have this auspicious Samskara

of marriage celebrated for Lakshmana also, for he is the reflection of Rama.

Your daughter Urmila can well shine as the spouse of Lakshmana. Do not

hesitate; resolve accordingly and make the necessary preparations". Vasishta

blessed the gathering and resumed his seat.

After listening to the narrative of the Ikshwaku Dynasty, from the lips of the

great sage Vasishta, Janaka rose from his throne and said, "O Brahmarishi! When

the scion of a noble clan intends to gift his daughter in marriage, he has to

announce the historic glory of his clan, hasn’t he? I have resolved to follow

your example and recite the story myself, for it gives me great joy to

recapitulate the names of my forefathers and recall their majesty. My birth

with this body happened through the blessings of forefathers of this dynasty.

It will be justified and its purpose fulfilled only if I describe them myself

to this vast gathering."

Janaka stood prayerfully before all. Vasishtha agreed with the request and gave

the permission sought. Janaka then began the narration: "Brahmarishi! Revered

Preceptors! Maharaja Dasaratha! In the very distant past, there was an emperor

named Nimi who adhered firmly to the path of righteousness, and who was

therefore famous for might and foresight. His son Mithi built this City,

Mithila, to serve as the capital for this kingdom. He was the first sovereign

of this region. His reign was very popular and his subjects were happy and

prosperous. His son, Sudhavasu had a son Nandhivardhana who ruled after him.

Nandivardhana's son was Sukethu and Sukethu’s son was Devaratha. Brhadratha was

the son of Devaratha, and Mahavira was the name of the son of Brahadratha.

Mahavira had as his name indicates, vast prowess. His

son Sudhrthi had a son called Dhrshtakethu. Dhrshtakethu's celebrated son was

Haryaswa; Haryaswa had a son named Maru; Maru's son was Pratheendhaka;

Pratheendhaka’s son was Keerthiratha. Keerthiratha had a son named Devameedha.

Devameedha's son was Vibudha; Vibudha’s son was Keerthiratha; Keerthiratha’s

son was Maharoma and Maharoma's son was Hrswarupa. He was a talented ruler, a

strict adherent of Dharma. He was acclaimed as a Mahatma. He is my father; I am

indeed very happy to acknowledge that my father was an ideal personage. The

truth is I am now ruling happily over this Mithila City as a result of the

merit acquired and handed down as heritage by my forefathers.

"My brother Kusadhwaja is much more to me than a brother. I revere him as a

divine personality. He is more of a friend to me than a brother. I brought him

up with such love and affection that I have developed great attachment to him.

Years ago, when the King of Sankasya demanded that I should yield the Bow of

Shiva to him or else, meet him in battle, I refused and he laid siege to

Mithila City. This was the signal for a bitter war between us during which

Sudhanva was killed and I made my brother the ruler of Sankasya. That City is

shining bright on the banks of the Ikshumathi River. Seen from afar, it reminds

one of the Celestial Chariot of the Gods, famous as the Pushpaka Vimana! Let me

tell you now of another auspicious idea that the Gods have inspired in me.

"I have brought him here today so that he might share in the joy of the wedding

celebrations. Brahmarshi! You commanded that Rama wed Sita and Lakshmana wed

Urmila, the other daughter of mine. I accept the command with immeasurable joy.

Sita is a celestial damsel and she will wed Rama as the Hero’s Gift. I shall bow

my head in all humility and gladness and give away Urmila to Lakshmana.

"I have another representation to make now for your consideration. Maharaja

Dasaratha! You have four sons all born of the same heavenly gift of Grace. Why

allow two to remain single? It will contribute to our happiness fully if they

too are wedded. It is the asterism of Magha today. This is a good day to

commence the rites and have the preliminary ceremonials. The day after, under

the asterism Uttaraphalguna, I seek your assent to gift the two daughters of my

brother, Mandavi to Bharatha and Sruthakeerthi to Satrughna in marriage".

At this every one in the huge gathering acclaimed the proposal, exclaiming,

"Subham!Subham!" (Most welcome! Most welcome!) Their applause rent the sky.

When Emperor Janaka made this suggestion about the marriages of both Bharatha

and Satrughna, the sages Vasishta, Vamadeva, Vishwamitra and others deliberated

among themselves. Dasaratha was easily persuaded to assent and then they

informed Janaka thus: "0 King! The two Royal clans the Ikshwaku and the Videha,

are filled with holy traditions, the sanctity of which is beyond measurement.

The greatness of these two dynasties cannot be measured and described by

anyone, however learned or proficient. Dynasties of this status or any that can

be pronounced equal to them in nobility have not appeared on earth before. It is

indeed a very auspicious event that these two are now brought together by these

bonds of marriage.

"This is highly appropriate, laudable and holy. In addition, we are glad that

the brides and grooms are fit in every way for each other. Janaka! Your

brother, Kusadhwaja is one who knows and practices Dharma. It is really good

that he too should become related to Dasaratha through the marital bond of his

daughters. It is a source of immense joy. Hence, we are ready to bless the

marriages of his daughters, Mandavi and Sruthakeerthi with Bharatha and

Satrughna. Our wish is that these Royal dynasties should be bound close by

these marriages".

Janaka and Kusadhwaja fell prostrate before the sages overcome with delight at

their wish being fulfilled. "This is no ordinary event. How fortunate we are

that we have been blessed with this consummation! How lucky that the sages

agreed to this proposal and eased the path. Sages will never encourage

inauspicious happenings. We shall reverentially obey all your commands", they

said.

Vasishtha then said, "No, why should we postpone these two weddings to the day

after or some later day! Tomorrow is auspicious for all. It will be very good

if all four weddings are celebrated on the same day". Janaka replied, "I am

blessed, indeed! Worthy Preceptor, Emperor Dasaratha has been, since long, your

disciple, executing whatever you commanded. We brothers too, from this day, are

your disciples. All our burdens are on your shoulders; direct us how to

proceed, how to act, we shall unquestioningly follow". They stood awaiting his

reply, with hands folded in utter humility and reverence. At this, Dasaratha

rose and said, "Ruler of Mithila! The virtues I find in you two I cannot

describe in words! You have made excellent arrangements for the stay and

reception of such a magnificent array of Maharajas and

Maharshi, as well as of the vast mass of people who have thronged this City. I

shall go back to my residence now and carry on the rites of Nandi and

Samavarthana in full concordance with Vedic prescription". The brothers

honoured him duly as he emerged from the hall and took leave of him at the main

entrance as befitted his status. They then went to their own palaces to fulfill

their assignments.

Dasaratha performed the Nandi rite; very early in the day he made all the four

sons perform the Samavarthana rite. He fixed golden ornaments on the horns of

cows selected for being given away to pious Brahmins, along with costly vessels

for milking them. It was a feast for the eye, the scene of the boys giving the

cows away! The citizens of Mithila felt as if the deities of the four quarters

were before them with Brahma in their midst; the four sons around Dasaratha

appeared thus to them.

While this gift was going on, Yudhajit, the Prince of Kaikeya, brother of Queen

Kaikeyi, the mother of Bharatha arrived. His father was yearning to have his

grandson, Bharatha, for some time with him, and so he had hurried to Ayodhya,

but he learnt there that the Royal family had left for Mithila for the marriage

of Rama. His father, he said, had no knowledge of the wedding of Rama. He too

had no idea that it was happening. So, he had come over to Mithila, since he

could witness the marriage and also communicate the desire of the grandfather

to have the grandson with him for some time. Dasaratha was glad that he could

come.

That night, Dasaratha spoke endearingly to his sons and others on a variety of

pleasant topics. No one in the camp slept. Every one was impatiently awaiting

the dawn of the happy day, when each could witness the wedding ceremony of

their dear princes. Each one was overwhelmed with joy as if his own son was the

bridegroom or his own child the bride. Their Ananda can be compared only to

Brahmananda; that was the measure of their love towards Rama and his brothers.

Early in the morning Janaka proceeded to the special dais on which the rituals

of the wedding were to be gone through; he was accompanied by a highly

spiritual splendor-showering group of sages. He then completed the preliminary

rites and was awaiting the arrival of the bridegrooms and their parents and

kinsmen. Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrughna had their ceremonial baths;

they wore yellow silken dresses; they had silk cloth wound round their heads;

they were bedecked with many ornaments studded with diamonds and sapphires;

they gave the impression that they were alluring, heart-captivating Gods who

had come down from Heaven.

The auspicious hour named Vijaya was drawing near and they approached the dais

preceded by musicians whose instruments struck up a melody that reached the

dome of Heaven. The Councilors of the Court, the feudatory rulers, and their

attendants followed them carrying huge plates of jewels, silk clothes, gold

coins, and other auspicious articles essential for the ceremony.

The populace gazed upon their beauty and prowess, without even winking the eye;

they confided to each other that the dignity of their bearing marked them out

as Divine, and not human at all. They exclaimed, "0, what charm! What a surge

of beauty"! Every one was filled with amazement. "They are denizens of heaven

come down on earth," they whispered among themselves, as the bridegrooms passed

between the thick rows of onlookers. Women swore that they had never cast their

eyes on such charming princes. Every window and terrace was packed to

overflowing. At last, the Princes reached the dais, and seated themselves.

Then Janaka and his brother, Kusadhwaja, brought their daughters to the dais.

They had been given ceremonial baths and elaborately and beautifully decorated

as befitted brides on the wedding day; they wore veils, and followed their

fathers, with thousands of maids following them, carrying fruits and flowers,

heaps of red and yellow cosmetic fragrants, rice grains, jewels, and gems. It

seemed as if the treasures of Mithila were flowing in a full scintillating

stream in the wake of the wedding.

The four brides were shining like magnificent lamps. They sat face-to-face,

Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrughna on one side and opposite them, Sita,

Urmila, Mandavi and Sruthakeerthi. A velvet cloth was held as a screen between.

The residents of Ayodhya and the nobles who had come from there sat behind

Dasaratha and the residents of Mithila and those invited for the wedding

ceremony by Janaka sat behind him on the elevated dais.

The eyes of all were drawn by the elaborate artistic and rich decorations, which

distinguished the marriage shamiana. It was all gold, silver and flower and silk

and velvet, festoons and flags, candelabras and columns, arches and finials. One

could not take the eye off any of these once it drew one’s attention. The vast

area was filled to overflowing with kinsmen and well wishers. It looked as if

Mithila itself was experiencing the thrill of the wedding and enjoying the

celebrations as if they were her own.

Soon, Dasaratha rose and politely reminded the Preceptor Vasishtha, "Why should

we delay?" Hearing this, Janaka stood before Vasishtha with folded arms,

praying that he should himself officiate at the ceremony.

Vasishtha agreed and with Vishwamitra and Sathananda accompanying him, he lit

the sacrificial fire, in the centre of the dais, while Vedic scholars and

experts in Vedic recitation raised their voices and repeated hymns appropriate

for the auspicious ceremony.

They arranged around the Altar of Fire, golden plates decorated with flowers and

sandal paste, full of tender sprouts of nine species of grains. There were also

incense burners, sacred spoons for offering oblations in the holy flames,

golden water pots, cups, and such other articles essential for the rite. They

spread the holy kusa grass thick on the floor, so that it lay as level and as

smooth as laid down in the texts. Then, they began to pour oblations into the

fire while reciting the hymns, which assure happiness and prosperity to the

brides and bridegrooms; every rite was gone through with meticulous accuracy

and correctitude. The initiatory threads were tied on the wrists of the Princes

and princesses.

The next rite was the rite of gifting the brides. Vasishtha called upon Janaka

to come forward; he came near the Sacred Fire Enclosure, dressed in regal

splendor and wearing all the regal jewels. As directed by the sage he held the

hands of Sita and placed them in the outstretched palms of Rama; his eyes

streamed tears of joy; coconut symbolizing prosperity had already been placed

in the palms of Rama and after Sita’s hands rested on it, milk was poured on

the hands by Janaka as part of the ceremony of gifting. Janaka spoke these

words to Rama at that time: "Rama! Here is Sita, my daughter. She will tread

your Dharmic path from now on. Accept her. She brings prosperity, peace and

joy. Hold her hand with yours. She is highly virtuous and true. From this

moment, she will follow you like your shadow, ever." With

these words, he poured water on the hands of Rama, to set the seal on the gift

Then he came near where Lakshmana was; he said, "Lakshmana! I am giving you this

bride, Urmila, accept her", and with the prescribed mantras, he completed the

ceremony of gifting her to the bridegroom. Similarly, he approached Bharatha

and pronouncing the Vedic mantras traditionally used for the wedding, he gifted

Mandavi to him as his bride. In the same manner he gifted Sruthakeerthi with the

pouring of holy water and Vedic recitation to Satrughna. After this the scholars

well versed in Vedic lore completed the customary rites and rituals for drawing

upon the wedded couples the Grace of the Gods.

Then Janaka rose and standing in the centre of the dais, he announced to the

bridegrooms, 'Darlings! Our daughters are to be installed as mistresses of your

households. The auspicious moment has come". As soon as he said so, with the

blessings and approval of Vasishtha, the four brothers held their brides each

by their hand and they circumambulated first the sacred fire, and then Janaka

and Vasishtha the Preceptor, and prostrated before them.

While they were doing so, showers of flowers fell upon them; joyous music rose

from a galaxy of instruments. The distinguished gathering acclaimed the moment

and scattered rice grains on their heads, wishing them all the best in life.

The jubilation with which they cheered, "Subham! Subham", shook the sky. It

filled all ears with delight. The gods played divine music in heaven; elysian

drums were beaten in ecstatic exaltation. The minstrels of heaven sang

hallelujahs.

On the dais, court musicians sang the traditional wedding songs describing the

splendor of the marriage ceremony and extolling it as on a par with the

marriage of Lord Siva and Gouri. They sang it in a rich variety of ragas and

melodies, filling the atmosphere with vibrations of delight. The four brothers

with their brides stood on the dais facing the vast gathering, and bowed In

acknowledgement of their cheers and greetings: "May you be happy for ever",

"May everything auspicious be added unto you".

The brothers, resplendent in their youth, heroism and beauty, proceeded with

their brides into enclosures behind the curtains from where their mothers were

watching the ceremony, so that they might prostrate before them and be blessed

by them. Then, they returned to the palace allotted for the stay of the Royal

Party. From that day, for three days, the populace witnessed a magnificent

variety of ceremony and festival, packed with joy and jubilee. The people of

Ayodhya who had come to Mithila as well as the inhabitants of Mithila itself

could not distinguish night from day! It was festivity without intermission.

The day after the wedding, Vishwamitra went to Dasaratha and told him that the

mission upon which he had resolved had been fulfilled. He called the brothers

close to him; he fondled them very affectionately. He blessed them profusely,

and turning to Dasaratha, expressed his intention to proceed to the Himalayan

regions. At this, Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrughna fell at the sage's

feet. Vishwamitra then went to the palace of Janaka and told him also that his

desire had fructified triumphantly! He blessed Janaka, and the brides, Sita,

Urmila, Mandavi and Sruthakeerthi. He announced there too that he was

proceeding to the Himalayas. Dasaratha and Janaka and many others of Ayodhya

and Mithila were in a fix; they could neither let the Sage depart, nor persuade

him to stay. At last, they laid at his feet their

load of gratitude and took the dust of his feet when he left, blessing every one.

The third day, when Dasaratha expressed his desire to leave for Ayodhya, Janaka

did not Interpose any obstacle, but made all arrangements for their departure.

He gathered the courtiers and attendant maids that were to accompany the

brides; he collected and filled many chariots with the articles that they had

to take with them. He gave as presents large numbers of elephants, chariots,

horses and cows. He presented to the sons-in-law jewels and precious gems in

plenty; also a vast variety of priceless gifts that could be used in daily

life. With the dawn of the next day, the caparisoned chariots were ready for

the journey. The women of the court were in tears; indeed, to speak the truth,

all the women of the City were weeping at the departure of the four dear

princesses.

Unable to bear the pangs of separation from Sita and Urmila, many nurses and

maids broke down with grief. The mothers held the hands of the sons-in-law and

prayed to them to treat their daughters gently and with affection. "They know

no hardship or sorrow, they have grown up soft and tender," they pleaded in

pathetic appeal. They wept as if they were losing their very eyes. At last,

they ascended the chariots and moved off. The City was filled with gloom, as

much gloom as the ecstasy it was filled with for three days Previous!

Janaka found it hard to take leave of Sita; he tried his best to curb the flow

of tears; he accompanied Emperor Dasaratha for some distance describing to him

the virtues of Sita and pleading with him to treat her with loving tenderness;

with tears in his eyes, he prayed that he may be informed frequently of her

welfare and happiness. He spoke also of the other brides and evinced great

anxiety on their behalf too. Dasaratha responded most sympathetically; he spoke

soothingly, trying his best to allay the agitation of his mind. He said,

"Janaka! We have no daughters of our own. So, these are the daughters whom we

longed to fondle so long! They are both daughters and daughters-in-law for us.

There will not be anything wanting for them; all things necessary for their joy

and happiness will be provided. Do not worry

or grieve in the least. Return fully assured of our love and affection for

them". Thus saying Dasaratha ordered his chariot to halt.

Janaka alighted from the chariot of the Emperor and approached the brides who

were seated with the bridegrooms. He consoled them in various ways to bear the

pang of separation from the home where they had been reared so lovingly. He

imparted courage, and quoted many Dharmic texts, which enjoin loyalty to the

husband and the husband’s kith and kin. He reminded them how they have to treat

the servants of the household which each of them was now entering. He accepted

their respectful prostrations and caressed them once again and blessed them.

When he turned his back on them to proceed to Mithila, he burst into sobs;

nevertheless he ascended his chariot and moved towards home. The chariots sped

Ayodhya-wards and Mithila-wards; very soon they were miles apart.

When Janaka reached Mithila, the apartments of the Palace were empty, with no

sign of life, no shine of joy, no sound of elation. He could not be there even

for an instant. Mithila was a City of Grief. Janaka sent for Sage Sathananda

and the Ministers and in order to free his mind a little from the upsurge of

sorrow, he had a number of items of business discussed and settled with them.

In the midst of the discussions, his mind would wander into sadness again; he

used to give replies unrelated to the problems raised. At this, one minister

said, "0 King! The separation from Sita seems to have caused great grief in

your heart. No father can escape this separation and this grief. Once she is

gifted to the bridegroom, the father’s duty is to reduce the attachment

gradually; this is a matter not unknown to your

Majesty. And, we know that Sita is no ordinary maiden! She is a Divine Angel.

So, separation from her must cause you greater agony. 0 King! The daughters are

Divine; and, note, the sons-in-law too have Divine Splendor! They appear to have

descended from Heaven. In Mithila, every one, young and old, had that feeling,

and that reverence towards them. It is really a wondrous coincidence that such

bridegrooms have been wedded to such brides, worthy in every way, in physical,

mental, intellectual and spiritual characteristics, in status, wealth, power,

family honour, dynastic sanctity and religious faith. This cannot happen to

all. Therefore, the daughters will have happiness, without the least

diminution. Their lives will be filled with greater and greater joy as the

years roll by". They recalled the grandeur of the marriage celebrations and

calmed the agitated mind of Janaka. They engaged themselves in consoling him

and restoring his equanimity and mental

peace.

Chapter 8Another Challenge

Meanwhile, Dasaratha was proceeding towards Ayodhya, with his sons and

daughters-in-law, the sages and scholars, army units of infantry, elephantry,

cavalry and chariotry, and citizens of his empire. Suddenly, they observed

certain bad omens and they had a premonition that something serious was about

to happen. Dasaratha approached Vasishtha and consulted him, "Master! What a

surprise is this! Dark clouds are thickening and howling; the beasts on earth

are tramping around us full circle. They should not behave so, isn't it? What

can be the reason? What does it indicate? I am getting apprehensive about these

omens". Vasishtha could see what these portents meant by means of his divine

insight; he said, "0 King! These are signs of some terrible event nearing us.

The clouds are roaring frightfully. But, considering

the fact that the beasts on earth are circumambulating our chariots, this much

can be inferred: the disaster that threatens us will be averted. Therefore, you

need have no anxiety". Vasishtha instilled faith and confidence in Dasaratha,

and they awaited events.

Suddenly, the wind grew into a fierce cyclonic storm! Even as they were looking

on, their roots pulled giant trees and they fell with alarming noise. Even the

mountain peaks rolled one over the other. Thunderous explosions rent the air,

as if the earth itself was breaking into pieces. Those in one chariot could not

see the vehicle before or behind them; so thick was the dust that rose all

around! Horses and elephants started running wildly in panic. Foot soldiers

dropped unconscious; others stood petrified by a weird fear.

Vasishtha, Dasaratha and the four sons were the only persons who were unafraid

in that entire huge concourse! All the rest were drained of vigor and vitality.

And for good reason, too. For the ground and air were enveloped in darkness.

Blinding flashes of light heightened the darkness! And, a dreadful figure, with

terror-striking eyes, stood before them.

His head had a crown of thickly matted hair. He had a giant double-edged axe on

his shoulder. He had on another shoulder a bag of arrows that shone like

lightning streaks. He appeared to them like the forehead-eyed Siva on His way

to destroy the mighty demon rulers of the Triple Fortress! As soon as he came

to view, Vasishtha recognized him as Parashurama. But he wondered why he was so

fierce with anger that day, even though all his rage against the Kshatriya clans

had long ago subsided as a result of the campaigns in which he had destroyed

them. He tried to discover what could have kindled the flame again from the

cooled embers.

Vasishtha himself moved towards Parashurama with the traditional signs of

welcome, like inviting him to wash his hands and asking permission to wash his

feet. But though he accepted these marks of good will and heartfelt reception,

Parashurama was staring at Rama with eyes like glowing cinders! Rama was

however reacting with a charming smile, a smile which only fed the fumes of his

anger! He raved loudly thus! "O son of Dasaratha! I have listened to your

exploits being praised by a thousand tongues. I heard also how you broke the

Bow of Siva, as if it was just child’s play. But, all that is hearsay not

directly seen by me. I have come now so that I can personally examine your

valor.

"I have brought this divinely consecrated bow. It belonged to Jamadagni, my

revered father. Show me your might, stringing it and fixing an arrow on it. Or

else, come, engage me in fight!" He challenged Rama in this manner, in

passionate anger.

Rama was not affected by all this demonstration of anger. He kept on smiling

coolly. "O Bhargavarama! I thought the vengeance you had nursed against the

Kshatriyas had ended long ago. Why this relapse? Why this downfall, this

absurdity?" he asked. Just then, Dasaratha bent low and in plaintive tones,

appealed to Parashurama thus: "Bhagawan! You are a Brahmin. You have won great

renown. My sons are tender teenagers. Why develop vengeful hatred against them

for no reason whatever? This ill becomes the high status of your lineage. Your

forefathers studied the Vedas without intermission and performed rites and

ceremonies with elaborate care. You yourself declared that day, when you

entered on the Chandrayana Ritual that you will not handle any weapon

thereafter; you said that your desires have been fulfilled; you

did this before no less a God than Indra, gifting all the territories conquered

by you to Kashyap, yourselves resolving to spend the rest of your days in the

performance of righteous deeds and the gaining of equanimity.

"You were all along engaged in austerities on the Mahendra Peak! And, now quite

contrary to your declared intentions, your mind is set upon destroying my

dynasty and family. Is it not a terrible sin to act against one's given word?

After this breach of promise, of what use is austerity? There is no God higher

than Truth, is there? You are challenging only Rama and you say you will fight

only with him! If anything injurious happens to that son, my entire family will

be plunged in dire calamity. Our lives will end the moment danger harms him. A

Brahmin like you should not become responsible for the loss of so many lives!

It is not only a sacrilege on Brahminhood; it is a heinous sin".

Parashurama paid no heed to the words of Dasaratha. He did not give ear to them.

He was casting his looks only on Rama. He said: "The Bow that you broke and this

one, both, have come from Heaven; Vishwakarma the Divine Artificer made them

both. One was offered to Siva, for use against the Demons of the Triple

Fortress; the other was entrusted to Vishnu. Once the demons were destroyed,

Siva sent it to Emperor Devaratha, with the arrows that were used for the

fight. Perhaps the bow had become frail and feeble, since the purpose for which

it was offered had been accomplished. It is no proof of might and heroism if

such a bow is broken. This bow has work yet to do, and so it still retains its

vigor and vitality. This bow is surcharged with efficacy and power. Take this,

string it and break it as you did the other.

That is the way to prove your strength and heroism. Do not strut about in pride

that you have broken the Bow of Siva! Break this and write your name in the

annals of the brave".

"You may doubt my words that this is the Bow of Vishnu", he continued. "Vishnu

Himself kept this in the custody of Hrshika a great sage. He handed it over to

his son, Jamadagni. Jamadagni is my father. He was the repository of tremendous

merit acquired by austerity; he was so pure-hearted that he had no trace of

hatred or vengeance in him. My father had renounced the use of weapons; yet,

Karthaviryarjuna the wicked, killed him. It was a crime of unprecedented

cruelty; no one had killed another so atrociously. I decided that I should not

show mercy; I had to teach him a lesson; I vowed that I would destroy not only

that monster, but all unrighteous kings. From that day, I have been cutting

them to pieces and playing ball games with their heads. This Bow was with me in

all those campaigns. I killed many wicked

monarchs. I brought under subjugation the entire world. My anger at those who

had killed my father cooled a little, with this. I gave up the vendetta, and

started a Vedic sacrifice. I invited Kashyap for that Yajna, since he was a

great saint immersed in meritorious activity. I gave him the Earth, which I had

conquered as Dakshina (ritual fees) for supervising the Yajna. Since then, I

have been spending my days on the Mahendra Peak, with my mind immersed in peace

and my intellect shining in spiritual splendor.

"Your father asked me why I have again taken up this weapon and put on a

challenging pose, in spite of my having renounced the path of vengeance and

hatred. I shall answer him now Rama! Two bows were created in Heaven and came

upon the earth. You have broken the Siva Bow. This alone remains now, intact.

If this too is broken, (it does not serve any purpose being with me, for its

work is over) then, my renunciation will be complete; so I wish that this too

is broken, or retained by you. I am waiting for this consummation. The moment

has come; I am determined to utilize it, rather than let it go by or allow it

to be misused. Perhaps, you doubt whether fighting is the best use that time

can be put to? But, the significance of the fight has to be looked into; it may

be for the progress and welfare of the world; it

may promote the suppression of the unrighteous and the encouragement of the

good. You cannot pronounce war as undesirable, judging from a superficial point

of view. Analyse the purpose. When a knife has to be sharpened, one has to hone

it on a grindstone. No one will condemn the process as injurious to the knife.

If the body is to derive strength from food, the food has to be placed between

rows of hard teeth and ground into paste, mercilessly. No one can condemn this

process as violence exercised on the material. It may become necessary in order

to provide Satwic food for either the Body or the Body Politic, to have recourse

to struggle, conflict and the apparent infliction of pain.

"Well. We are in the middle of the road, halfway through a journey. It is not

proper to indulge in talk, standing here. Let us get to action. It is

imperative we should start straightway. Come on! Either string this bow and

break it in the process or fight a duel with me!" This was the call from

Parashurama. Lakshmana was fuming with anger, while listening to the challenge

of Parashurama; he was about to intervene with a hot retort, when Rama

quietened him saying, "This is not a matter concerning you. For the questions

asked of me, I myself have to answer. It is against good manners for you to

come between us; leave me to handle this situation". His affectionate and soft

counsel made Lakshmana desist. But, when Parashurama started laughing at Rama

and ridiculing him for not accepting his challenge as soon as it

was thrown, Lakshmana could not control his reaction of resentment.

He shouted, "O Bhargava! This is not much of a task for Him who broke the Bow of

Siva! To break this little bow, why do you challenge Rama? This is a Brahmin

weapon! It is just a blade of kusa grass. I can myself break it, in a trice

effortlessly, even while playing with it; for this petty task why ask Rama. I

have no need to transfer the assignment". When Lakshmana uttered these words,

Parashurama became even more inflamed. But Rama took things coolly and calmly;

he smiled at Lakshmana and pacified him by his soft speech. The more enraged

Parashurama became the quieter and more restrained was Rama’s reaction.

Soon, Parashurama lost control of himself; he gave free rein to his tongue and

started pouring rank abuse; this caused some consternation in Dasaratha’s

heart. The maids and servants hid themselves from the furious onslaught. The

four arms of the army were shaken by fear. The Pundits were terrified. Sita,

however, watched the scene with amusement; she was not in the least agitated.

She was not affected by the slightest apprehension. She was instilling courage

and confidence in the hearts of Urmila, Mandavi and Sruthakeerthi, telling them

that he was a lame jackal before the Lion that Rama was. When they saw Rama

reprimanding Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna had no mind to intervene. Or

else, they too would have joined the fray and asked Rama for permission to

fight, or take up the challenge. They awaited the

orders of Rama and kept away. Vasishtha could know the past and the future and

so, He realized that the incident was but a scene in the Divine Drama. He was

silent and unshaken.

Ramachandra spoke with profound calm. "Parasu- Rama! You are a Brahmin. For a

Kshatriya you are an object of worship, on the basis of caste. You are a

kinsman of the revered Vishwamitra. I don’t feel it proper to kill such a high

caste Brahmin. Nor is it proper to aim this holy weapon against you. You

yourself declared just now that it belongs to the Realm of the Gods, that it

has so far destroyed every enemy, city and fort against which it has been used,

and that it can overwhelm and defeat the strength and pride of whomsoever it

encounters. Is it not sheer waste to make it unserviceable? So, choose any one

of these two alternatives and tell me: Shall I use it to prevent you from

moving about on your feet? Or shall I prevent you from attaining the higher

worlds that you have earned by means of austerities?"

When he heard these words, Parashurama was even more enraged; his eyes turned

red with anger; he rushed forward towards Rama, exclaiming, "What are you

prattling?" Rama took hold of the Vishnu Bow that was slung on his shoulder,

with a derisive laugh, which hurt his pride. Lo! No sooner did the weapon reach

the hands of Rama than Parashurama got debilitated. He lost all energy and

vitality. Rama shone in such added splendor that no eye could stand that blaze.

He stood there as if countless lamps were lit on one spot, radiating blinding

light all around. When the authentic wielder of that bow, Narayana Himself,

held it in His grasp, the bow too acquired added lustre; a triumphal aura

surrounded the bow and lightning streamed from it. The gods gathered in the sky

and showered flowers on Rama holding the Bow. The auspicious sound of music

filled the sky.

Meanwhile, Parashurama was full of smiles. He said, "Rama! Did you notice what

happened! I have experienced the delight of the Divine Manifestation, your

Divine Splendor. In days gone by, I gifted this earthly region to Kashyap.

Receiving it, the sage Kashyap declared, that I should not enter his dominion

again and even if I did, I should not spend a night therein; he pronounced a

curse upon me, on these lines. Well. It is already getting dark. I can no

longer be present here. I have to hurry fast to the Mahendra Mountain. Through

my incomparable austerity, I have won high heavenly regions. Break the bow and

with it, break all the power I had won. All the power I have in me is yours. 0

Rama, watch this, I am offering to you the power earned by me".

Thus saying, he came near and embraced Rama with both hands clasped firm around

him. At that moment, three facets of Divinity that had subsisted in him so long

came forth from him and merged in Rama. Then Parashurama addressed Rama thus:

"Rama! The world cannot easily understand the mystery of the Divine; even those

like me who have earned great power through denial and detachment and ascetic

practices rely more on their own spiritual achievements, ignoring the influence

of the Divine Strategy of Vishnu.

"I have therefore, set about to make known your reality and genuine power to the

world; I have given you as an offering the powers I had; I have also proved once

again that you are the mighty Vishnu, the God endowed with unique power, the God

who directs the Drama of the Universe. There is nothing that is devoid of you,

nothing that is not you. You are all. Yours is all. I had the good fortune of

wielding for some time your divine bow and, as a consequence, I earned some

reverence from the world. That is the merit I have won. This is my offering."

With this Parashurama disappeared.

Rama gave over the bow and arrows to the God Varuna, with an unperturbed smiling

countenance. He prostrated before Vasishtha and Dasaratha, who were by his side.

Dasaratha was all the while shivering with fear, apprehending what might happen

to his son from this Apparition, what calamity will land on him. Now, he was

free of anxiety. He drew Rama near and fondled him affectionately in various

ways. He raised the son’s face towards him holding it by the chin and, finding

it rather difficult to express his feelings in words, said, "Dear Son! I am

indeed lucky, I was afraid whether I would be able to see you again. Your

resolute courage, your

heroism is beyond imagination". Thus, he praised Rama very much and appreciated

his exploit in many ways. In reply, Rama said. "Dharma has to win: Victory is

the inevitable concomitant of righteousness. In the preliminary stages of the

struggle, it may create some fear and some obstacles, which might appear

formidable. It will cause even weakness of mind. It might arouse suspicions of

defeat or failure. But, instead of bowing or beading before it one has to fix

his attention on the goal itself. Then it can never fail. Failure can never

affect it. Men do not peer deep into the truth of Dharma’s might; they are

carried away by superficial handicaps and worries and so they give up the path

and suffer. What has happened is for the best, I ascribe this to your

blessings".

Saying this, Rama again fell at the feet of his father. "The armed forces are

awaiting your orders to resume the march and proceed towards Ayodhya. Kindly

communicate your commands to them," said Rama. At this Dasaratha was filled

with delight. He said. "Son! Why should we delay further? Grief and joy afflict

us one after the other and cause distress to the person and his body. We can go

to the capital city and seek to live there happily in the best manner

possible". He called the ministers to his side, and required them to order the

troops to march.

The soldiers cheered in joy and began to move forward. The interlude of fear had

ended. Dasaratha spent the remainder of the journey describing, and enjoying the

description of, the amazing events of the day. As they neared the City, some

regiments were sent in advance in order to inform the citizens of the arrival

of the party, with the sons and daughters-in-law. The memory of the grandeur

and glory of what they had experienced at Mithila and on the way home gave

speed to the feet and they flew like arrows from bowman’s hand into the City.

They announced that Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna were entering the

City with their brides and that Dasaratha had sent them to give the glad

tidings.

The citizens of Ayodhya decorated and embellished the streets and houses in a

variety of attractive styles. Plantain trees were tied to posts on both sides

of the road. Bunches of coconuts were hung from the posts. Rosewater was

sprinkled. The entire City was made charming and attractive.

Musicians with their instruments took positions all along the route. Fireworks

were collected and distributed all along the line, so that it could be made one

continuous stream of colour and cheering noise. They awaited, with the deepest

feeling of joy, the party, counting the minutes as they looked into the

distance to catch the first glimpse. Women in veils crowded the windows and

terraces of the mansions, or peeped from behind curtains tied across them.

Emperor Dasaratha entered the capital City of Ayodhya, with his sons and their

brides. Music rent the air as soon as they were sighted. People cheered

enthusiastically, shouting Jai Jai, till their throats were hoarse. Women waved

lights, threw flowers on their path and sprinkled rosewater. The young men were

like bright stars. When the populace saw the ennobling scene, many forgot where

they stood or who they were; their joy knew no bounds. Their thirst could not be

quenched, however long they gazed; so they walked long distances backward, so

that they could keep their eyes fixed on them! Thus, the entire route was

covered and they reached the gates of the palace. There, Brahmins had stationed

themselves so that they could recite Vedic hymns invoking good fortune and

prosperity on the newly weds. Maids waved

lights and performed many rites to ward off the evil eye. They prayed the

daughters-in-law to come in, placing the right foot first.

Meanwhile, at the entrance to the zenana, there stood the queens, Kausalya,

Sumithra and Kaikeyi awaiting their approach with avid eagerness. They

sprinkled sandal scent, tucked flowers in their hair, and placed dots of red on

their foreheads. When the sons came, the queens were overwhelmed with joy; they

drew them near and fondled them, patting their heads and chins; they blessed

them profusely. Then the four sons and daughters-in-law prostrated before the

three mothers. When they did so, their eyes streamed tears of joy, for, their

happiness knew no bounds.

Meanwhile, the maids brought rice, boiled in milk, in golden plates; the mothers

placed the food in the mouths of the newly weds, and persuaded them to eat it.

They gave them milk to drink. Then, they were taken to the inner apartments.

In the evening, ladies from Ayodhya were invited to the palace for sharing in

the auspicious ceremonial of welcoming the newly weds. An imposingly beautiful

dais was got ready; golden seats were placed upon it. The queens brought costly

clothes and jewels with precious gems set on them in artistic patterns; they

commissioned talented maids-in-waiting to help the daughters-in-law to put them

on, and they themselves supervised the wearing of the costume and jewellery.

They held them by the hand and led them to their seats.

By that time, Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata and Satrughna had come there and taken

their seats wearing princely robes, and costly jewels as well as crowns. Each

sat to the right of his bride. The mothers as well as the ladies who had been

invited from the City feasted their eyes on the splendor of the scene and their

Ananda was immeasurable. While they were going through the ceremonial, gifts

were distributed outside the Palace to people in profusion. Cows, cash, gold,

land, grain, vehicles and horses were all given away in plenty.

Brahmins came before the dais and cast auspicious rice grains on the heads of

the newly weds to the accompaniment of the recitation of Vedic hymns. Then

women in married status waved 108 lamps before them to ward off the evil eye.

After this the sons rose and with their wives they prostrated before the

mothers, the father and the Guru, Vasishta. Then, they retired to their own

apartments.

TO BE CONTINUED

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