RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI Part 5

[Guest guest]

Om Sri Sai Ram

 

RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI

The Rama Story, Stream of Sacred Sweetness

As told by the Divine Lord Himself in the present Avatar as Bhagawan

Sri Sathya Sai Baba

 

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.

 

 

Another 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