Ayodhya Kanada (Contd..)
83.Bharatha starts to the forest
(Bharatha starts to meet Rama, along with a huge army and
a teeming population of people belonging to various castes and trades. They
reach the town of Guha and take rest
there.)
Waking up early morning Bharatha boarded excellent chariot and set out with a desire to see Rama
swiftly.
83.1
All the ministers and priests went ahead in chariots resembling the chariot of the sun, which were yoked to horses.
83.2
Nine thousand elephants arranged in proper fashion , followed Bharatha who was the delight of the clan of
Ikshuvakus.
83.3
Sixty thousand elephants and well armed archers followed behind Bharatha who was a famous prince .
83.4
One hundred thousand horses mounted by their riders followed Bharatha who
was truthful, who had control over his sense organs and who belonged to the clan of Raghu. 83.5
Kaikeyi, Sumithra
and the famous Kausalya joyful at the thought of bringing back
Rama went in chariots which were
shining.
83.6
Groups of gentlemen
who were delighted in their hearts
by the spectacular achievements of Rama
were travelling to see Rama and
Lakshmana.
83.7
“When will be able to see Rama who is like a black cloud, very strong , had remarkable courage and steadfast in penance who can destroy all sorrows of the
world.”
83.8
“As soon as we see Rama,
all our sorrow will vanish , like the darkness vanishing on seeing the
Sun.”
83.9
The people of the town on their way narrated to each
other achievements of Rama and also hugged each
other.
83.10
Those others who were close to the family of the king ,
merchants as well as other citizens went
along with delight to see Rama.
83.11
Polishers of gems
and ornaments , potters capable of making ornamental pottery, manufacturers of
weapons , weavers , People who make show
pieces using peacock feathers, people who saw wood , makers of cheap ornaments , perforators of shell as
well as ornaments, artisans on ivory ,
people who plaster, merchants of
fragrant essences , famous goldsmiths , blanket cleaners , bath attendants ,
doctors , vintners , merchants of
perfumes, washer men, tailors , chiefs of villages, actors along with
their wives, fishermen joined the group.
83.12-83.15
Thousands of
Brahmins who were expert in Vedas, who had a composed mind and who were famous for their Dharma followed
Bharatha riding on bullock carts.
83.16
Properly dressed up in clean cloths, wearing red sandal
paste in groups riding on various vehicles
people slowly followed Bharatha.
83.17
The very cheerful army followed the son of Kaikeyi
Bharatha who loved his brother and was going to bring back his brother.
83.18
Travelling on chariots, carts, elephants and horse for a
long distance with great difficulty , they reached near Sringaberipura which was near the Ganges river , which was a
city ruled vigilantly by Rama’s friend
the valiant Guha who was living there
with his relatives.
83.19-83.20
The army accompanying Bharatha reached the river Ganga frequented by Chakravaka birds and halted on its banks .
83.21
After inspecting the army that followed him as well as
the sacred waters of the river Ganga , Bharatha , who was an expert in speech
addressed his ministers.
83.22
“I am of the opinion that the army can halt here and after taking further rest , we will
cross the river tomorrow. “
83.23
“Meanwhile I desire to give ablations with water in the
river to my father who has gone to heaven, for
ensuring him good life in that world .”
83.24
When Bharatha spoke like this to the ministers , each of them
agreed with this and with composed minds , each of them allowed the army with
them to relax.
83.25
Bharatha made adequate arrangements for encamping his
great army on the banks of the mighty river
Ganga and thought over the problem of bringing back Rama and took up his dwelling there.
83.26
This is the end of the eighty third
chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
84.Guha meets Bharatha
(Guha suspects the intention of Bharatha. So he carefully
approaches him. Sumanthra tells Bharatha about Guha. Guha is allowed to
meet Bharatha.)
Then Guha, the king of NIshadhas observing the great bannered army encamping on the banks of river
Ganga , hurriedly addressed all his
relatives and said.
84.1
“I am seeing a great army which is spread like an ocean
and I am unable to comprehend by my mind as to its magnitude.”
84.2
“It appears to me that the evil minded Bharatha himself
has come here .The huge emblem of Kovidha
tree seems to be hoisted atop his
chariot.”
84.3
“Would Bharatha , the son of Kaikeyi arrest us with
cords or would he kill all of us or has he come with the desire of conquering
this thriving kingdom which is not easily obtainable or is he desirous of
slaying Rama who was banished by his father ?”
84.4-84.5
“Rama the son of Dasaratha is not only my master but also
my friend. So be vigilantly stationed on the banks of Ganga , so that his interests are protected.” 84.6
“Let all fishermen who live on fruits, roots and meet
and who depend on Ganga for their
livelihood stay here along with their
armies.”
84.7
“Let five hundred boats each manned by hundred men be
available here” , said Guha exhorting them.
84.8
“If perchance Bharatha is not ill disposed to Rama then
his army would cross over river Ganga today itself in safety.”
84.9
After telling this , the king of NIshadhas , carrying , fish , meat and wine as presents
approached Bharatha.
84.10
The very famous son of the charioteer , who was humble by nature , seeing their coming informed humbly about it.
84.11
“This Lord who is surrounded by thousands of his
relatives is very knowledgeable about
Dandaka forest . He who is aged is a
great friend of your brother.” 84.12
“Oh son of Kakustha clan, so you may let the Lord of NIshadhas Guha to see you as he will undoubtedly know about the whereabouts of Rama and
Lakshmana. “ 84.13
After having heard these auspicious words of Sumanthra
Bharatha said, “Allow him to meet me immediately.”
84.14
Guha became joyous on seeing that the permission was
obtained and along with his relatives and
with humility approached Bharatha and told him. 84.15
“This country is like the garden in your backyard and all
of us are subordinate to you and you may live in the home of this slave.”
84.16
“Here are the roots and fruits from the forest and also great varieties of dried and fresh
meat brought to you by these NIshadhas.’
84.17
“I am desiring that you and along with your army may take
rest here tonight and after we present you with various offerings , your army
can proceed tomorrow.” 84.18
This is the end of the eighty fourth
chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
85.Guha ‘s doubts are cleared
(When Guha asks Bharatha whether his intentions are evil, Bharatha tells him
that he is going to bring back Rama. Guha is greatly impressed.Bharatha
spends a sleepless night due to worry.)
Bharatha hearing the words of Guha, the lord of NIshadhas
, replied with well thought-out and
greatly significant words.
85.1
“Oh friend of my elder brother, your intention of providing
food for this very great army , indeed is great.”
85.2
After saying these very great words to Guha, he again told the lord of the NIshadhas. 85.3
“Oh Guha, these marshy banks of river Ganga is dense and difficult to cross ,Can you tell
me how I can cross this and go to the hermitage of Bharadwaja .” 85.4
Hearing these words of the sagacious son of the king, ,
Guha who is an expert forest ranger replied
with folded hands.
85.5
“Oh very famous son of the king, these fishermen armed
with bow shall accompany you with vigilance and I also would accompany you.” 85.6
“Are you going to
Rama who never gets tired , with an
intention to cause harm to him? Seeing
your great army , I am getting this
doubt.”
85.7
Bharatha who was as pure as the sky , hearing these words
replied to Guha in a gentle tone.
85.8
“Let such an evil time causing such a calamity never come
.It is not worthy of you to suspect me like that as Rama as an elder brother is like my father and
held in high esteem by me.” 85.9
“I am going to
bring that son of Kakustha back from the forest. Oh Guha , please do not
entertain any other thought as I am telling you the truth.”
85.10
On hearing the talk of Bharatha , Guha became happy and
with a face beaming with joy , once again told Bharatha.
85.11
“You are a blessed man because you want to renounce that
kingdom , which you got without any effort and I do not see anyone equal to you
in this earth.”
85.12
“Great permanent fame will follow you in this world , because you
are desiring to bring back , Rama who is in great difficulty.”
85.13
When Guha was talking like this to Bharatha, the sun
started shining with less brilliance and the night started setting in.”
85.14
Bharatha after encamping his huge army with the help
rendered by Guha , retired to sleep. Shatrugna also started sleeping.
85.15
But the great Bharatha ’s mind was occupied by the sorrow about Rama. Being
a man steeped in Dharma he did not deserve to be sorrowing like this.
85.16
Inside Bharatha
the grief was burning him and scorching him , like the hidden fire in
the forest scorching a tree.
85.17
Just as the snow
on Himalayas is melted by heat of the sun
flows out , sweat poured out from all parts of his body due to the
heat of grief.
85.18
With unbreakable
mountain of meditation , with mineral like heaving , with pathos of
multitude of trees , with sorrows and
tiresomeness like mountain peaks , with countless creatures of stupor , with
sorrows making him like bamboo trees , Bharatha was enveloped by the mountain
of sorrow. 85.19-85.20
Then the best among men, heaving sighs with a very disturbed mind , with bewildered senses
, caught in great calamity , oppressed by the heat raised in his heart ,
like the bull driven out by the herd
lost his peace of mind.
85.21
Bharatha followed by his people joined with Guha and Guha Again consoled Bharatha who was with a greatly distraught mind thinking about Rama. 85.22
This is the end of the eighty fifth
chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
86.Guha Talks of Lakshmana
(Guha tells Bharatha about Lakshmana and his love
towards Rama. He tells how he guarded
Rama in spite of Guha ‘s offer to do
so. He told how worried Lakshmana was
about Ayodhya.)
Then the forest ranger Guha described to Bharatha, who
had countless virtues , the good nature
of the great Lakshmana.
86.1
“I spoke to Lakshmana
who was completely awake for the
protection of his brother holding bows
and arrows .”
86.2
“Oh friend Lakshmana who belongs to clan of Raghu , for your sake
a comfortable bed has been arranged.
Without any anxiety , please lie down on
it.” 86.3
“Oh soul of Dharma
, all of our people are used
to sorrow but you are accustomed to pleasure and
so we will stay awake for the protection
of Rama.” 86.4
“There is no one in this world who is dearer than Rama to me. Do not be
anxious. I am telling you the truth.”
86.5
“With his blessings , I want to attain great fame in this world, abundance of Dharma and absolute Artha
and Kama.”
86.6
“I armed with bow
and arrow along with our clan members
,would protect my dear friend Rama who is
sleeping with Sita.” 86.7
“Since I wander around the forest always , nothing here is unknown to me .In a battle here we
can fight with an army with four divisions
.”
86.8
“Telling like this
to that great soul Lakshmana , we all were able
to see only Dharma in him.” 86.9
“He further said,” When Rama is sleeping on the ground
with Sita, how is it possible for me to get sleep or pleasure or life.”
86.10
“Oh , Guha , that Rama whom even asuras and devas
cannot withstand in a battle is
lying down on a bed of grasses with Sita.”
86.11
“Rama was obtained by Dasaratha by performing many great austerities and is the only son
who resembles my father in all his virtues.”
86.12
“After he was banished
the king cannot survive for long
and quickly this earth would be
turned in to a widow.”
86.13
“The women in the king’s private apartment must have
cried loudly for a long time and would have stopped by now due to getting
very tired and by now all the sound
would have been calmed down in
the palace.” 86.14
“ I think that
Kausalya and the king as well as my mother Sumithra would outlive this
night.” 86.15
“My mother may continue to live by looking after
Shatrugna , but as for the mother of the
warrior, Kausalya would die due to extreme grief.”
86.16
“After failing to
fulfill one cherished desire after
another one , the king will die without being able to make Rama the king.”
86.17
“When the moment for lying in state on earth comes to my father , the person who
carries out his funeral rites would have achieved his purpose.”
86.18
“Then he will move about
in my father’s city of Ayodhya with pretty highways and
cross roads, full of mansions and palaces which are embedded with precious
stones , thronged by large number of elephants, horses and chariots, echoing with sound of trumpets,
filled with auspiciousness everywhere ,
crowded with joyful prosperous people
, with large number of pleasure gardens , shining is community festivals and is full of all sort of comforts.”
86.19-86.21
“Would we be ever able to enter Ayodhya after we safely
fulfill the vow of Rama of completing
the full term in the forest?”
86.22
“While the great prince was lamenting this way and was
waiting, the night passed off.” 86.23
“On the next day dawn in the banks of river Ganga, they
matted their hair and were comfortably
ferried across the river by me.”
86.24
“Wearing matted hair and dress made of barks of wood
those powerful men who were slayer of their enemies and resembling the lord of
bull elephants, armed with excellent bows, arrows and other weapons, looking back with alertness went with Sita.” 86.25
This is the end of the eighty sixth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
87.Guha tells about Rama to Bharatha
(Bharatha becomes sad and upset , Seeing that his mothers
also are upset.Later Bharatha asks
about what Rama ate and where he slept.
Guha tells him that he only sipped water and lay down on a bed of Durbha prepared by Lakshmana.)
Bharatha after hearing these words of Guha which was not
to his liking , was immersed in thought
as and when he heard each
sentence.
87.1
“Bharatha who was gentle, powerful , with shoulders like
that of a lion, with great arms , with wide eyes resembling petals of a lotus ,
youthful and graceful was revived for a moment but immediately fell down with grief like an elephant , heavily beaten by whips.” 87.2-87.3
Seeing Bharatha
like this , Shatrugna who was standing nearby , hugged him with great sorrow and fell
down senseless.
87.4
Then all the mothers of Bharatha who were emaciated due
to fasting , desolate and grieving for the death of their husband rushed towards him. 87.5
All of them wailing fell around him on the ground but
Kausalya who was desolate approached Bharatha and took him in her hands.
87.6
The saint like very sad Kausalya who had great affection
towards him wept and clasped him like her
own child and enquired.
87.7
“Oh Son I hope some sickness is not afflicting you as the
well being of the king’s clan is now dependent on you.”
87.8
“Oh son when Rama left with his brother and after king
Dasaratha departed to heaven, I am living because I am able to see you and you are our sole protector. “
87.9
“Oh son, have you heard something unpleasant about
Lakshmana as well as my son who has gone to the forest along with his wife.
Rama is my only son.” 87.10
That famous one instantly consoled himself but still crying reassured Kausalya and told the following to Guha.
87.11
“Oh Guha , where did my brother along with Sita and Lakshmana spend the
night? Where did they sleep? And what did they eat?.Please tell me.”
87.12
Guha , the lord of NIshadhas greatly delighted told his loveable guest about all that he had provided to
Rama.
87.13
“I offered Rama
various kinds of rice, several kinds of eatables and great quantity of fruits which were brought for his meal.” 87.14
“Rama who was valorous in his truth ordered all of that to be taken back ,
remembering the duties of Kshatriya he
did not accept them.” 87.15
“You should never take
anything from others but always give, my friend”, like this that great
one entreated.” 87.16
“That great one only drank water which was brought by
Lakshmana and later Rama and Sita
observed fasting.” 87.17
“Lakshmana drank the remaining water and thus completed
his work. Then they performed evening
worship observing silence.”
87.18
“Then later Lakshmana prepared a comfortable
and auspicious bed for them by using Dharbha collected by himself .”
87.19
“Rama along with Sita
lay down on that bed and Lakshmana after washing their feet , went away to a distant
place.”
87.20
‘Near the roots
of this Ingudi tree is the place where the Durbha was spread over which
Rama and Sita slept.”
87.21
“Lakshmana , the destroyer of his enemies along with
quivers filled with arrows and wearing a finger guard made of goat skin and also holding a bow which was strung ready , stood guard throughout
that night.”
87.22
“There after I also armed with very good bow and
arrow and surrounded by indefatigable
men who were also armed with arrows who belonged to my clan , stood in
guard of Indra like Rama along with Lakshmana.” 87.23
This is the end of the eighty seventh
chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
88.Bharatha is upset that Rama had to sleep on the floor
(Guha shows Bharatha
the bed on which Rama and Sita
slept.Bharatha is greatly upset. He decided to wear matted hair and cloths of
Bark and live in forest while Rama is crowned in Ayodhya.)
Having listened to all those words, Bharatha along with
his expert ministers , went to the foot
of Ingudi tree and gazed at the bed of Dharbha there and addressing his
mothers he told, “ That great Rama slept
here on the ground at this spot and you
may see the crushed bed here.” 88.1-88.2
“That very fortunate and intelligent son of
Dasaratha born in a very great clan does
not deserve to sleep on this naked
earth.” 88.3
“How could that tiger among men who is used to sleep on deer skin spread
over several excellent bed spreads , sleep on this naked ground.”
88.4
“That destroyer of enemies Rama used to reside in seven storied palaces and
great mansions with floors paved
with gold , over which carpets used to
be spread. These rooms used to have
bouquets of flowers of varied
colours and the paste of the perfumed
sandal and Agaru used to be applied there.
The roofs of these
palaces looked like white clouds
and they echoed with the sweet sound of several parrots. These
palaces used to be cool and were scented
with many perfumes. They were all equal to Meru mountain with
their gold plated walls. He used to be
woken up by playing of musical instruments , playing of drums and tinkling
sound of ornaments . Many poets , flatterers
and genealogists used to sing
appropriate verses extolling his virtue at the proper time and used
to salute him.” 88.5-88.9
“This happening cannot be believed and
it does not appear to be truth
to me and my mind is scared as it looks like a bad dream to me.”
88.10
“Surely the divine will is much more powerful , because
Rama the son of Dasaratha had to sleep on the floor.”
88.11
“Sita who is the daughter of king of Videha, who has a
comely appearance and who was the daughter in law of king Dasaratha also had to
sleep on the floor. “
88.12
“This bed of my brother has been tossed about and this grasses spread on hard earth has
been crushed by his limbs .”
88.13
“Here and there I see some particles of Gold had been
attached to it and possibly Sita must have slept on them wearing all her
ornaments. “
88.14
“It is evident that the upper garment of Sita has been stuck here , for here and there silk threads are shining on
it.”
88.15
“”I think this bed of her husband must have been
comfortable for her , who is young lady who is
delicate , chaste and observing penance
and she never felt any suffering
.” 88.16
“Alas , it is
unfortunate that due to a cruel person
like me, Rama with his wife was made like orphans and had to sleep
on such a bed.”
88.17
“How can Rama , born in the family of emperors , revered
by all the world, one who is darling of
all the world, one who is the colour of blue lotus, one who had red eyes, one who has pleasant looks,
one who enjoyed pleasures and one who never merited sorrow , had to leave the matchless comforts of his kingdom , and sleep on this hard floor.”
88.18-88.19
“The great
Lakshmana who has auspicious virtues
who accompanied his brother at the time of adversity and followed him is blessed.” 88.20
“By accompanying her husband to the forest Vaidehi has
accomplished her objective , for without any doubt , being away from Rama all of us are debased ones.” 88.21
“With Dasaratha having gone to heaven, and Rama having depended on the forest , to me the
country appears to be without a helmsman.”
88.22
“No one should desire to have this kingdom , because ,
even though Rama is in the forest , the country is protected by his mighty
arms”.
88.23
“The capital city of Ayodhya , without guards to protect
it from ramparts , With elephants and horses let loose , with city gates kept
open and thus unobstructed,
unprotected and with unhappy and demoralized army would be
even shunned by the enemies like food
mixed with poison.” 88.24-88.25
“From today I will always have matted hair and wear
cloths made of bark , eat only fruits and roots and sleep on the bare floor.”
88.26
“I would cheerfully
live for the rest of the period in the forest , taking the vow of Rama on myself , so that the vow is not
made untrue.”
88.27
“When I live in the forest instead of my brother,
Shatrugna would live me and the great
Rama along with Lakshmana will protect
the kingdom.”
88.28
“The great
Brahmins will hold the coronation of Rama in Ayodhya and would the gods fulfill this wish of my
mind.”
88.29
“I would personally bowing my head to him would request
for his grace and if it is not granted,
I would live with him in the forest for a long time , so that he would not be
able to ignore me.” 88.30
This is the end of the eighty eighth
chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
89. Bharatha crosses Ganga and reaches hermitage of saint Bharadwaja
( Guha arranges to
ferry Bharatha along with his family
members and army across Ganga. Then they
all travel and reach near the hermitage
of saint Bharadwaja.)
Bharatha after spending that night on the banks of Ganga
, got up at dawn and told Shatrugna.
89.1
“Shatrugna ,
are you asleep. You be safe. Please go
and bring Guha, the Lord of NIshadhas speedily .He will help us and the army
to cross the river Ganga.”
89.2
Shatrugna replied when urged like this , “I have not been
sleeping but I have been continuously thinking
about Rama.”
89.3
While the lions
among were talking like this, Guha came in time and , saluted them and told Bharatha.
89.4
“Did you spent the night
comfortably on the banks of the river. I hope you and your army had no inconvenience.”
89.5
Hearing those affectionate words of Guha, Bharatha , who
was partial to Rama told. 89.6
“Oh king , the night was comfortable. We have been
honoured by you. Please instruct your servants
to ferry us across the Ganga in
their innumerable boats.”
89.7
Guha on hearing the orders of Bharatha , went quickly to
his town and told his clan members.
89.8
“Get up , awake. Safety to you for all time .Haul down
your boats and let us ferry this
army across the river.
89.9
As per the order
of the king they all got up quickly and brought five hundred boats. 89.10
They also brought other luxury boats called Swasthika, which had large
bells , had flags, were magnificent
looking , built solidly and were
suitable for sailing . 89.11
Guha then Brought another auspicious Swasthika boat , covered with white wool
blankets and filled with pleasing sounds
. 89.12
Vasishta and other important Brahmins boarded that boat
first. Later it was boarded by Bharatha, Shatrugna, Kausalya, Sumithra and
other women of the king’s house and wives of the king. In that boat their
wagons and supplies were boarded.
89.13-89.14
The sound of
people burning their temporary shelters, their getting down in waters and
boarding all the materials in the boats
reached the heavens.
89.15
Controlled by flags and propelled by the fishermen , those
boats boarded by and carrying men moved very speedily .
89.16
Some boards carried women, some others were filled with
horses, some others carried draught animals and carriages and some great treasures.
89.17
When the boats
reached the other shore all the people disembarked and those fishermen returned making lovely formations in the
river. 89.18
The elephants decorated by flags and goaded by Mahouts
while they were crossing the river shined
like mountains.
89.19
Apart from those who crossed by boats , others crossed
either by rafts and large pots or
swam and crossed the river.
89.20
The auspicious army which was ferried across the river by fishermen reached the holy forest of Prayaga in the Maithra holy period.
89.21
After giving rest to the army, the great soul Bharatha ,
allowing them to live as per their pleasure
set out along with his
priests , to see
the very great saint Bharadwaja .
89.22
Having approached the hermitage of the great Brahmin , who was a great soul and
priest of the devas , he saw delightful huts and multitude of trees and the charming forest of the best of
Brahmins. 89.23
This is the end of the eighty ninth
chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
90. Bhardwaja talks with Bharatha
(Bharadwaja also misunderstands the intention of
Bharatha. Later hearing his real intention , he is greatly pleased, He informs
Bharatha about the present location of
Rama. Bharatha decides to spend that night in that great heritage)
Seeing the hermitage of Bharadwaja , from a distance of
about two miles , that best among men who was a knower of dharma , brought the entire army to a halt , went
along with his ministers to the
hermitage , keeping the priests in front
, and after leaving out all ornaments and weapons and wearing silk garments .
90.1-90.2
Then Bharatha made
the ministers to halt at a glancing distance from hermitage of Bharadwaja, went forward along with his
chief priest towards the hermitage . 90.3
That great ascetic on seeing sage Vasishta , sprang up from his seat and told his
disciples, “Please bring offerings of water.”
90.4
After that lustrous saint met sage Vasishta and after receiving the salutations of Bharatha , he was informed that he is the son of Dasaratha,
90.5
Bharadwaja who was conversant with Dharma , in accordance
of their importance made welcome
offering to them and offered water for washing their feet and after giving them fruits enquired from Bharatha about news and welfare of his family.
90.6
He enquired about the welfare of Ayodhya, army, treasury and well being of friends as well as ministers and knowingly did not mention
about Dasaratha.
90.7
There after Vasishta and Bharatha enquired about his
health of the body , sacred fires, trees as well as disciples and also about
the animals and birds.
90.8
The great ascetic Bharadwaja after affirming about the
general welfare and out of his bonds of
affection to Rama told Bharatha.
90.9
“You being the ruler of a kingdom, what is the
reason for your coming here? Tell me
everything in detail as my mind is not
clear about it.”
90.10
“Rama, the destroyer of enemies, who increases happiness
of people and who was given
birth by Kausalya, along with his
brother has been banished to the forest
for quite a long time. That one who is great has been ordered to live in the forest for fourteen years by
his father due to the persuasion of a
women. With a aim of enjoying the kingdom
without any problems do you intend to cause harm to him and his sinless brother?” 90.11-90.13
When Bharadwaja
told like this , Bharatha with great sorrow, eyes full of tears and with
tottering voice replied. 90.14
“I am completely lost if even venerable persons like you think about me like this .Please do not rebuke me like this
suspecting a fault on my part.”
90.15
“What my mother
told in my absence is not to my liking.. I am not pleased with her
words and I do not accept them.” 90.16
“I have come here to please that tiger among men by some
strategy and take him back to Ayodhya
after prostrating him.” 90.17
“In these circumstances
, Oh sage , be pleased to show your kindness to me and be pleased to tell me the whereabouts of
Rama , as of now.” 90.18
That god like saint further entreated by Vasishta and
other sages , after getting pleased with Bharatha addressed
him like this.
90.19
“Oh tiger among men, your behaviour with your teachers , your control over your
senses and your wish to follow people
with virtue are appropriate to you as
you are born in the clan of Raghu.”
90.20
“I was aware of your mind
and in spite of that questioned you , so that your reply would increase your fame.”
90.21
“I know where Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana lives. Your brother is living in the great mountain of Chithrakuta.”
90.22
“You can go to that place tomorrow. And you may stay
here along with your
ministers. Oh very intelligent prince
who is aware of Kama and Artha,
please fulfill my desire. “ 90.23
Bharatha who is a
man of noble vision assented and said
“so be it”, and then Bharatha decided to spend the night in that
hermitage.
90.24
This is the end of the ninetieth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
91.Bharadwaja
treats Bharatha and his army with a feast
(Sage Bharadwaja then
offers hospitality to Bharatha
and his army. He summons several devas and a great feast is arranged.
All the members of Bharatha ‘s retinue enjoy that great feast.)
Seeing that the son of Kaikeyi has made up
his mind to stay , the sage , invited him to stay there hospitably.
91.1
Bharatha addressing the sage told, “You have already
offered us water to wash our feet as also
made the welcome offering and so
the hospitality suitable for forest has already been extended.” 91.2
After that Bharadwaja with a gentle smile told, ”I know
you are full of love and are satisfied
with whatever has been offered.”
91.3
“I want to feed
you as well as the army , as the form of my love to you, oh best among
men.” 91.4
“Oh best among men, why did you stop the army away from
here? Why did you not approach me along with your army?” 91.5
Bharatha with folded hands addressing the sage whose penance is his
wealth told him, “I did not approach you with the army as I was scared of you.”
91.6
“Oh God like sage,
the king or sons of the king should
intentionally avoid the places of the
sages.” 91.7
“Oh god like sage,
good horses, men , rutting mighty elephants , which occupy immense land usually follow me.”
91.8
“Fearing that would damage your water source and leafy huts
if they come in, I came alone
without them.”
91.9
When the great
sage requested him to bring the army near him, Bharatha ordered the army to advance and come
near the sage.”
91.10
After entering the house of the fire sacrifice, after sipping
water and wiping his body , he invoked Viswakarma to provide hospitality
to the guests.
91.11
“I wish to provide hospitality . I invoke Thwashta who
builds homes and Viswakarma to help me in this matter and make necessary
arrangements.” 91.12
“I invoke the three
guardians of the world lead by
Devendra as I would like to provide
hospitality and request them to make
necessary arrangements.”
91.13
“let all those rivers of the earth which flow towards
east and flow towards west and in the
sky , may come over here now.”
91.14
“Let other rivers flow liquor made of date palm, others the well prepared
Sura(wine?) and yet others cool
water tasting like sugarcane juice.”
91.15
“I also call upon
devas, Gandharwas, Viswavasus , haha, Huhu also goddesses
belonging to the Gandharwas and Apsara
clans.”
91.16
I
also invoke Gruthachi, Visvachi, Misrakesi, Alambusa, Nagadantha, Hema and Hima
who reside on the mountain.”
91.17
“I
invoke all the Brahmacharini women who
attend on Indra as well as Lord Brahma
accompanied by Dumburu along
with all their
instruments.
91.18
“Let
the Khubera ’s divine forest in the
land of
Kurus with leaves serving as
cloths and ornaments , which bears fruits in the form of celestial women come
here.”
91.19
“let
the moon God give me excellent food , many kinds and varieties of eatables
and food suitable , for chewing , sucking and licking.”
91.20
“Let
multi coloured garlands made of flowers freshly fallen from trees, wines and
other drinks and meats of different
kinds be provided.”
91.21
The
sage with incomparable luster in
profound meditation and filled with the
glow of penance , in conformity with the
rules of Vedic chants told like this.
91.22
When
the sage facing east and in deep meditation was requesting all this with folded
palms , those gods summoned by him appeared before them one by one.
91.23
Then
the wind after touching the Malaya as well as Durdura mountains
and becoming most pleasant , cool
and comfortable, the breeze blew cooling the sweat.
91.24
Then
the celestial clouds showered rain of
flowers. Sounds of the divine drums were being heard from all directions.
91.25
The
gentle winds blew , hoards of Apsara women danced , the divine
Gandharwas sang and notes came out from
the stringed instrument Veena.
91.26
The
sound with proper modulation and rhythm,
which emanated from those musical
instruments entered the ears of all being living on earth and the sky.
91.27
When
the celestial sound pleasing the ears
subsided , the army of Bharatha saw the
very pretty creations of Viswakarma.
91.28
On
every side for five yojanas(twenty miles) the ground had been leveled and covered with many grass lawns which resembled the glittering sapphires
and cat’s eye gems.
91.29
At
that place Bilva, wood apple , Jack fruit , citrus, gooseberry and mango trees laden with fruits resembling ornaments had sprang up.
91.30
From
the kingdom of Northern Kurus , a divine river, which was the delight of heaven
, bordered by very many trees came in to existence .
91.31
A splendid quadrangle of four buildings ,
stables for horses and elephants , and auspicious arch ways for palaces and mansions suddenly sprung
up.
91.32
A
royal palace white like the autumn
clouds , with splendid archways, decorated by divine garlands , perfumed with
divine scents, with a spacious quadrangle , furnished with couches , seats and coaches sprang up there. Several kind of
celestial drinks , delicious food in sterling containers , very good dresses
and every variety of food ,in clean and well kept vessels was stocked
in that palace. Inside seats were arranged for everyone and there were in it magnificent couches
with very good spreads.91.33-91.35
The
mighty armed son of Kaikeyi Bharatha , having been permitted by the sage,
entered the palace stocked with
treasures. 91.36
He
was accompanied by the priests and
ministers and they were filled with joy on seeing the arrangements made
inside. 91.37
There
they saw an exquisite throne, fan made of Yak’s tail and Parasol an Bharatha and his ministers
went round it like kings. 91.38
Bharatha bowed to
the throne as if Rama was seated there
and seated himself in the minister’s seat fanned the thrown with yak tail
fan.
91.39
The ministers and priests occupied their seats
in proper order of
importance and next to the chief of army
, the supervisor of the camp sat.
91.40
As per the order of Bharadwaja , immediately rivers of Payasam(Kheer) started
flowing towards Bharatha. 91.41
On the two banks of the river , celestial and charming
houses appeared by the grace of Lord Brahma.
91.42
Within no time, twenty thousand well decorated and well
ornamented women came there by the grace of Lord Brahma. 91.43
Shining in gold ornaments , gems , corals and pearls twenty thousand women sent by
Khubera came.
91.44
Twenty thousand pretty
Apasara women , who would make men
who take them in to hands
delirious with passion came from Nandana.
91.45
Thereafter the distinguished Narada , Dumburu and Gopa
and the kings of Gandharwas who
were shining like the sun started singing in the presence of Bharatha.
91.46
As per the orders of Bharadwaja, Alambusha, Misrakesi ,
Pundarika and Vamana danced the Bharathanatya. 91.47
As per the orders of Bharadwaja , those garlands of devas
as well as that of Chaithraratha
gardens were found in
Prayaga. 91.48
As per the command of Bharadwaja Bilwa trees started
playing drums, palm trees started playing cymbal and Peepal trees started dancing.
91.49
Thereafter Pine and Palmyrah trees , even great Tilaka
trees , Naktha trees that bear flowers at night , became short and were
transformed in to hunchbacks and they
all moved , here and there . 91.50
Asoka trees and
Gooseberry trees from the forest and creepers like jasmine , Mallika,
Jaaji and all others took the form of women came to the hermitage of Bharadwaja and said. 91.51
“Oh people who drink Sura(liquor) drink as much as Sura
as you want, and all those who are hungry eat Payasam(Kheer) and meat
offered in fire sacrifices.”
91.52-91.53
Seven or eight woman, one by one rubbed the body of each
man, bathed them in the banks of that river
And they were
greatly delighted. 91.54
Some women with sparkling eyes speedily approached them
for massaging and
some other chosen ladies wiped away water from their bodies and gave
each other wine to drink. 91.55
The attendants of vehicles fed meals to
horses, elephants , donkeys , camels , calves of cows as per their need as and as per the rule.
91.56
Those energetic
people who were warriors of Ikshuvaku
kings , made the animals that pull the vehicles , eat more
and more and made them eat parched grain, with sugarcane and honey. 91.57
The horse riders were not able to recognize their horses
, the mahout did not recognize his
elephant and the whole army which was
fully drunk forgot everything and
shined. 91.58
After gratifying all their desires and after applying red sandal paste all over the body and surrounded by Apsara ladies , those army men
exclaimed. 91.59
“We will not go to Ayodhya nor will we go to Dandaka .
Welfare to Bharatha and Rama have a
pleasant life.”
91.60
The soldiers of
Infantry and cavalry , who after enjoying the hospitality of Bharadwaja , no
longer recognizing their leaders also
made such utterances. 91.61
Those men who were followers of Bharatha who were in
thousands highly delighted shouted “This
is heaven”
91.62
Those soldiers
danced , laughed as well as sang and ran about all over wearing thousands of garlands.
91.63
Those who had already
eaten that nectar like food , when saw that divine food again,
wanted to eat once more.
91.64
Thousands of servants, slave girls, female attendants,
army attendants dressed in matchless dresses were greatly proud of
themselves. 91.65
There the elephants, donkeys , camels, cows, horses ,
beasts and birds were well fed , and each of them did not trouble the
other.
91.66
No one in the army was wearing dirty dresses or
themselves dirty or hungry and no one
was having dust on their body or with
unkempt hair.
91.67
There the men were surprised to see goat meat, boar meat, choicest condiments,
various fragrant and tasty fruit juices
, soups , white rice , in thousands of
metal containers. 91.68-91.69
Along the border of the forest wells were filled with
Payasam and there were wish fulfilling cows and honey dripping trees.
91.70
Other wells were filled with date palm liquor ,
surrounded by pots of well cooked meat
of peacock, chicken and deer.
91.71
There were vessels in thousands, plates and tumblers in
lakhs , golden vessels, cups and well cleaned
pots made of earth and jars with
wide mouth.
91.72
Tanks were filled with sweet curds of good flavour with the colour of wood apple
which were blended with spices , some more tanks filled with Payasam and some filled with sweet prepared out of barley powder. 91.73
-91.74
The army men saw in bathing Ghats of rivers bathing
powders and powder extracts in containers
and different kind of bathing requisites. 91.75
There
the soldiers saw on all sides stacks of
tooth cleaning sticks, white and bristled, white lumps of sandal wood paste
placed in dishes made of leaves, well cleaned mirrors, collection of clothes,
several pairs of foot wear, collyrium boxes, combs, brushes for cleaning
moustaches, weapons, parasoles, bows and shining armour, different kinds of
couches, and seats. There were pools of drinking water for donkeys, camels,
elephants and horses and excellent landing places filled with flowering lotuses
and water lilies. The lakes were of transparent waters resembling the hue of
the sky and easy, comfortable for swimming. There they saw soft hears of grass
as green as sapphire and Nipa trees for the animals to refresh.
91.76-91.80
Those
men were surprised by the great hospitality extended by sage Bharadwaja to Bharatha and felt as if they were in the
world of dreams.
91.81
When
they were enjoying like this like devas
in garden of Indra , in the pretty hermitage of Bharadwaja , the night passed
away.
91.82
Those
rivers reverted back to the normal state , Gandharwas and those lovely women returned back after
taking leave from saint Bharadwaja.
91.83
Those
men were greatly intoxicated by the liquor
and were smeared with divine Agaru and sandal paste , petals of flowers
from the crushed divine garlands were
strewn helter-skelter .
91.84
This is the end of the ninety first chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
92.Bharatha travels towards Chithrakuta
(Bharatha enquires
the sage about where Rama is staying. The saint
tells him about Chithrakuta and gives him directions to reach there.
Bharatha introduces his mothers to the sage and later they all leave towards Chithrakuta.)
Thereafter greatly satisfied with the hospitality
Bharatha and his men and after spending the night approached sage Bharadwaja with a desire to know about
Rama. 92.1
The sage who had completed the morning fire ritual saw the tiger among men who had arrived with folded hands and asked him.
92.2
“ Oh sinless Bharatha, At our place did you pass the
night pleasantly ?Please tell me whether you and your men were satisfied with
the hospitality.”
92.3
Bharatha with folded hands saluted and prostrating that sage with matchless powers who has
emerged out of his hermitage said.
92.4
“Oh God like sage, I along with all my ministers with the
entire army as well as beasts are
satisfied and fulfilled all our desires.”
92.5
“All of us including
even our servants freed from
fatigue and heat were well
nourished and well housed , we passed the night comfortably.”
92.6
“Oh God like sage, oh great sage, I will take leave of
you with love. And I am going to see my brother. Please look at me with
friendly eyes.”
92.7
“Oh follower of Dharma, please tell me the location of
the hermitage of my brother who is
magnanimous and steeped in Dharma. How
far is it from here and how to reach that place ?” 92.8
Enquired to like this by Bharatha who was desiring to see his brother , the greatly lustrous Bharadwaja who has done
great penance replied.
92.9
“Oh Bharatha , about seven miles from here , through the lonely
forest with charming forests and wood
lands is Chithrakuta mountain.”
92.10
“Once you reach its northern side of the forest you will see the Mandakini river
covered flowering trees and lovely blossoming woods.” 92.11
“Oh dear child,
beyond that river is Chithrakuta mountain, and on it there is a leafy
hut and it certain that both of them are living there.”
92.12
“Oh chief of the army, Oh great one, if you take your
army consisting of horses, elephants and chariots to the southerly direction to the south west
through this path , you will find Rama soon there. “ 92.13
Having heard of the particulars of their journey , the
wives of the king of kings Dasaratha got
down from their chariots and stood
around that Brahmin, Bharadwaja.
92.14
Kausalya who was
thin , trembling ,and depressed
along with Sumithra with her hands
caught the feet of that great sage .
92.15
Kaikeyi with unfulfilled desire and being despised by all
the world , overcome with great shame also caught his feet.
92.16
Then she with reverence went round with a depressed heart , that
great sage and stood not far away
from Bharatha.
92.17
Bharadwaja who was very firm in his penance asked Bharatha, “I would like to know in
detail , individually about your
mothers.” 92.18
Hearing these words of the sagacious Bharadwaja ,
Bharatha who was an expert in speech
answered with folded hands.
92.19
“Oh God like sage, this is the goddess Kausalya the principal queen of
my father looking desolate and
emaciated due to sorrow and fasting .Similar to Adhithi bearing Dhatha ,
she gave birth to Rama, the best among men who walks like lion.”
92.20-92.21
“This lady with a sorrowing mind who resembles the branch of Karnika tree
which is with withered blossoms in the middle of forest, Who leans on the left arm of Kausalya
is Sumithra and
Lakshmana and Shatrugna who resemble the devas in beauty and who are greatly valorous are
her sons.”
92.22-92.23
‘She is one who lead to the destruction of life of the
tiger among men and due to her King Dasaratha went to heaven , without his son
by his side. She gets angry , does not know how to discriminate between good
and bad , proud about her beauty , desires for wealth , is not lady like but is
in the guise of a lady. She is my mother who is wicked , determined to do
sinful deeds and only due to her , I am seeing this sorrow.”
92.24-92.26
Saying this , the tiger among men with reddish eyes and
angry like a serpent , spoke words hissing like a serpent , choked with
rears and took laboured breath. 92.27
When Bharatha told like this to the great saint Bharadwaja , that man with great intelligence
replied to him thus.
92.28
“Oh Bharatha , you should not impute these faults on
Kaikeyi , for Rama’s travel would lead
to great pleasure in the future.”
92.29
“Due to travel of Rama ,
only good will come to devas,
asuras , sages and purified souls.” 92.30
Bharatha after saluting him , went round him and summoned the army and ordered them to get
ready.
92.31
Afterwards different type of people getting ready for the journey harnessed excellent horse chariots plated
with gold.
92.32
Wearing golden chains and flags both the he and she
elephants started on their journey
making sounds like thunder clouds at
end of summer.
92.33
Carriages small and big
of various kinds and of great
value started on their journey and
infantry started walking.
92.34
Thereafter Kausalya and other distinguished ladies travelled with joy in
great carriages with a view to
see Rama .
92.35
Bharatha started his journey in an auspicious palanquin
shining like the morning sun as well as
the full moon which was kept ready ,
with attendants preceding him. 92.36
The collection of horses, elephants and chariots and the
vast army travelled towards south spreading like a huge cloud that has arisen in the sky going through forests visited by birds and animals and passed through mountains and streams on to the other side of Ganga.
92.37-92.38
With soldiers , horses and elephants in high spirits
frightening birds and beasts Bharatha ’s
army entered the great forest and
looked splendid. 92.39
This is the end of the ninety second chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
93.Bharatha reaches Chithrakuta and spots the
hermitage of Rama.
(Bharatha travelling
with his army reaches the Chithrakuta mountain. His army men after
search locate a hut from which smoke was rising. Bharatha stopping his army
there proceeds towards the hut along with
elders.)
Seeing that great army marching in the furious elephants
who were leaders of herds who were
living in the forest ran off along with herds.
93.1
Bears and herds of dotted deer as well as antelopes could be seen in the
stretches of forests, mountains and rivers.
93.2
The Dharmic Bharatha the dear son of Dasaratha proceeded surrounded by four divisions of the army creating lots of sound .
93.3
The army of that great soul Bharatha which resembled
waves of ocean covered the earth like clouds in rainy season.
93.4
At that moment with large number of horses moving at a
great speed along with elephants covered
the earth and earth was not visible for some time.
93.5
The great Bharatha after travelling a long distance , finding the people carrying his palanquin
were very tired , addressing the best of advisors told.
93.6
“After observing the topography of the place and matching
it with what I heard from Bharadwaja ,
it is clear that we have reached our destination.”
93.7
“That is the Chithrakuta mountain and this is the Mandakini river and at a distance we
can see a forest shining like blue cloud.”
93.8
“Now the pretty ridges
of the Chithrakuta mountains
are being trampled by elephants
which look like mountains to me.”
93.9
“The trees are shedding flowers on the
mountain ridges , like the dense blue
black clouds showering water at the end of summer.” 93.10
“Oh Shatrugna, see this mountain occupied by Kinnaras and frequented by giant crocodiles as they exist in the ocean.”
93.11
“The sight herds of deer
swiftly running which were
incited by the clamour resembled clouds of autumnal clouds being scattered by
the wind.” 93.12
“Like the people of south , the trees were adorned on
their heads crown like adornments
made of scented flowers , which looked like brilliant clouds.” 93.13
“It appears to me that this silent forest is
horrible looking like the town of Ayodhya thronged with crowds of
people.”
93.14
“While the dust raised by the hooves of horses in covering the forest, the wind is
carrying it away and gives me
pleasure.”
93.15
“Oh Shatrugna , please notice that commanded by expert
charioteers and drawn by the horses, these chariots are flying
through the forest.” 93.16
“ See the peacocks
which are delightful to look
at are frightened and speedily
entering their see their
residences.” 93.17
“This region is greatly charming and appears like a road to heaven and surely it is the abode
of sages.”
93.18
The he and she deer
with several spots are moving about in the forest and they appear as if their
hides are painted with flowers.”
93.19
“Let the
soldiers go in to the forest and search
for those two tigers among men ,
Rama and Lakshmana in a proper
way.”
93.20
Hearing the words men well armed entered that forest and those people noticed a smoke
there.
93.21
Seeing that column
of smoke , they returned to Bharatha “In a place without men, fire
cannot exist and it is clear that Rama
is there.”
93.22
“If it is not the son of the king , who is the
destroyer of enemies , then it must be
other saints , who are like Rama
residing in the forest.”
93.23
Bharatha, who kills the army of his enemies , hearing these
words agreeable to the good
people , addressing the entire army told .
93.24
“All of you stay here with alertness. Please do not go
forward from here. I myself along with Sumanthra and our Guru Vasishta would go
there.”
93.25
Hearing this all those assistants halted there and Bharatha intently saw the place where from the smoke was coming.”
93.26
Being halted by Bharatha , the army started gazing in the space in their front and became happy because
not long before they will rejoin with their beloved Rama.
93.27
This is the end of the ninety third chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
94.Rama shows the scenes of Chithrakuta mountain to Sita
(Rama takes Sita round
the Chithrakuta mountains and shows her round. He says that he enjoys
his stay there)
After that Rama who resembled the devas and
who loved the forests and mountains, having lived in that mountain for
quite a long time , with a desire to make Sita happy as well as to please
himself started showing the wonderful Chithrakuta mountains to her
like Indra did to Sachi devi.
94.1-94.2
“Oh Auspicious Sita, when I see these pretty mountains , being banished from the kingdom or
separation from friends does not pain my mind.” 94.3
“Oh dear , you may please see this mountain which has
large flocks of birds of different kinds
and its peaks with minerals standing as if they are piercing the sky.”
94.4
“Decorated by minerals , this king of the mountains , has
some parts shining like silver , some areas with blood red colour , some
sparkle with luster of gems , some shine like the flower of Ketaka plant and some areas shining
like Mercury. “
94.5-94.6
“This mountain which is blessed with several type of
birds , has also many type of animals like
tigers, panthers and bears which
have given up their cruel nature.”
94.7
This
mountain is covered with several
kinds of flowering trees and fruit trees , shady and enchanting, mango,
rose-apples, Asanas, Lodhras, Priyalas, Jackfruit trees, Dhavas, Ankolas,
lovely Tinisas, Bilva trees, Tinduka and bamboo, Kashmaya, Arishta and Varana,
Madhukas, Tilaka trees, Badari and Myrobalan trees, Nipa trees, cane, Danvas,
and promegranate trees and this the
mountain looks splendid. “
94.8-94.10
“Oh
pleasant lady, see the very dear Kinnaras
in pairs on these mountain plateaus who cause thrill to those
who see them.”
94.11
“Please
see the sporting retreats of pretty
Vidhyadhara women, whose swords
and best garments are hanging on
trees.”
94.12
“This
mountain has streams running here and there
and water springs sprouting from the earth which emits ichors like
elephants and are shining.” 94.13
“The
breeze from the caves is carrying the
fragrance which is produced by many types of flowers which satisfy the smell . Who will not be
pleased with that?” 94.14
“Oh
flawless one , even if I am to live many
autumns here with you and Lakshmana , I will not be sad.”
94.15
“Oh
lovely one , I am enchanted by these
peaks on the mountain crowded with several flowers and fruits as well as flocked by different type of
birds.” 94.16
“By living in this forest
there are two advantages, discharge of the debt of dharma of my father and giving happiness to Bharatha.” 94.17
“Oh
Vaidehi are you enjoying seeing of
various objects , along with me in this mountain which gives
happiness to the mind and body?” 94.18
“My
great grand fathers of olden times who
are no more and who were royal sages used to say that for a king living in the forest is as tasty
as nectar.” 94.19
“Hundreds
of very huge rocks of these mountains are shining in blue, black,
yellow, white and red colours.”
94.20
“Thousands
of herbs of this king of the mountains,
shine in the night with their own luster
and look like flames of fire.” 94.21
“Oh
pretty one , some parts of the mountain look like dwellings. Some parts look
like pretty gardens and some parts like a single rock.” 94.22
“This
Chithrakuta mountain appears as if it has arisen up by splitting the earth and its shining peaks looks auspicious from
all directions.”
94.23
“See
those couches for lovers made by accumulation of Kushta, Sthagara , BHurja and
Pannaga leaves over which lotus petals are spread.”
94.24
“Oh
lady, see those lotus garlands worn , crushed and cast aside by lovers and many
fruits eaten by them and lying
there.” 94.25
“With
its abundance of roots, flowers and water
this mountain resembles Vasaukasara
the capital city of Khubera, Nalini, the garden of Khubera and
the land of Utharakuru.”
94.26
“Oh
lady, this time when I am able to wander along with you and Lakshmana and following the path of virtuous men , increases the dharma towards my
clan and I shall obtain great pleasure
of entertainment .”
94.27
This is the end of the ninety fourth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
95.Rama Takes Sita round Mandakini river
(Rama then takes Sita , near the river Mandakini and
shows her round the pretty scenes. He
says that this place is better than Ayodhya.)
Afterwards getting down from the mountain Rama along with
Sita , showed her , the charming auspicious water of river Mandakini.
95.1
The lotus eyed
Rama told the broad hipped daughter of king of Videha who had a pretty
full moon like face.
95.2
“Look at this Mandakini with varied type of sand banks,
lotus flowers and see the Geese and swans
swimming in it.”
95.3
“See this sparkling
river with trees laden with fruits and flowers growing everywhere on its banks resembling the lake Nalini of the king of kings.”
95.4
“Just now the water has been drunk by herds of deer ,
descending in to the river through
landing places and making it turbid and
this gives me great pleasure.”
95.5
“Darling , the sages adorned with matted locks , wearing
skin and bark as upper cloth are
immersing in river Mandakini at the
appointed time.”
95.6
“Oh broad eyed one, some other sages with rigid
austerities are worshipping the sun
God lifting their arms .”
95.7
“With all tree tops swaying in the wind and shedding
their leaves and flowers , the entire mountain seems to be
dancing.”
95.8
“At some places the water of the river is clear as the
crystal, at some other places it
has shining sand dunes and at other
places crowded with sages.” 95.9
“See the heaps of flowers fallen from trees shaken by the
wind and other large masses of flowers
floating in the middle of the
river.”
95.10
“Oh Lady who does good, oh sweet voiced one , the
Chakravaka birds are cooing in sweet voice and are alighting on the heaps of
flowers.”
95.11
“Oh lovely one,
Viewing the Mandakini river and Chithrakuta mountain your presence , I
consider , is more pleasant than living in Ayodhya.”
95.12
“The Sidhas
endowed with penance, self restraint
and peace are completely washed
of all their sins by taking bath in this
agitated water. You may enter its waters
with me.” 95.13
“Oh pretty Sita, you may enter the river Mandakini with
red lotuses and white lotuses submerged
in it .
95.14
“Oh lady , imagine always that these wild animals are the citizens, Chithrakuta as
Ayodhya and this Mandakini river as Sarayu river.”
95.15
“Oh Vaidehi, the soul of Dharma Lakshmana obeys
all my wishes and you also favour all my
wishes, causing lot of pleasure to me.”
95.16
“Bathing thrice at the time of ritual prayers , partaking
honey, fruits as well as roots in your
company, I do not wish for Ayodhya or
the kingdom.” 95.17
“This pretty river is blessed with lots of deer. Elephants, lion and
monkeys come to drink water in it. It is
decorated with plants in full bloom.
There does not exist any other place which removes fatigue like this one.”
95.18
Like this Rama the
perpetuator of the clan of Raghu , talked
of many aspects about this river in the company of his beloved and they both
wandered in the Chithrakuta mountains ,
resembling the hue of the collyrium.
95.19
This is the end of the ninety fifth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
96. Rama hears the sound
in the forest , Lakshmana sees Bharatha ’s and is agitated.
(There was a great
disturbance in the forest because of the sound created by marching army
,Lakshmana finds out that it is due to
Bharatha ‘s army . He gets agitated thinking that Bharatha is coming to kill them.)
Having shown Sita , the princess of Mithila
the river and the mountain and
gratifying her with meat , Rama sat on the mountain slope.
96.1
The soul of Dharma , Rama told Sita who was seated with
him, “This sacred meat has been roasted
in fire and made in to savory.” 96.2
When they were sitting like this, the sound and dust raised by the approaching army reached the
sky.
96.3
When this was
going on, greatly scared by the
great sound and getting afflicted ,
the baffled leader of elephants herds started
running along with their herds. 96.4
Rama heard the great sound generated by the army and saw
the leaders of elephant herds
fleeing away .
96.5
Seeing the beasts running away and hearing the sound ,
Rama addressed Lakshmana , the son of
Sumithra who was bursting with energy.
96.6
“What a great surprise, Lakshmana who is the worthy son of Sumithra, I am
hearing fearful and tumultuous rumbling sounds of clouds .Please see.”
96.7
‘”Herds of elephants in the forests , buffaloes in
great woods and wild animals frightened by lion are
running here and there.” 96.8
“Has any king or prince come in this forest for
hunting or has any other ferocious animal
entered in to the forest. It is
proper that you find out.”
96.9
“Oh Lakshmana this mountain is difficult
to enter even for the birds and it is only proper that you find out exactly the reason for this.” 96.10
That Lakshmana hurried climbed a tall flowering Sala tree
and glanced in every direction and first
examined the east side. 96.11
And then seeing to the north , he saw a vast army consisting of chariots
, horses and elephants , with well equipped
foot soldiers .
96.12
After having told Rama about the army decorated with chariots with flags and teeming with horses and elephants , he
said the following words.
96.13
“Oh gentle Rama, put off the fire , let Sita take refuge
in a cave , put on the armour and get ready with your arrows and bows. 96.14
The tiger among men Rama replied to Lakshmana “Oh son of Sumithra , look carefully at the
army. Whom do you think it belongs?”
96.15
When Rama told him like this Lakshmana who was raging
like a fire and wanted to reduce that army in to ashes replied.
96.16
It is evident that the son of Kaikeyi after being consecrated and
endowed with the prosperity ,
desiring the kingdom to be clearly his, is coming to slay both of us.
96.17
“On the top of the chariot there is a huge shining flag
with the picture of a huge Kovidara tree with huge trunk .”
96.18
“This great tree with a very large trunk and with many branches is the Kovidara and is on that flag of the chariots of that
army.”
96.19
“Those people who have mounted their horses are running
swiftly and following their flags.
And those people who are riding on the
elephant look cheerful.”
96.20
“Let us take hold of our bows and stand on this mountain
or let us stay fully prepared for the
battle here itself.”
96.21
“Oh Rama, will the Kovidara flag come in to our possession
in this war? Will I be able to see Bharatha who has been the reason for this bad state of me,
you and Sita?”
96.22
“Oh valorous Rama, that valorous Bharatha on whose
account you were perpetually banished from the kingdom has come here as a foe. And
it appears to me that he should be slain.” 96.23
“Oh Rama, I do not see
any fault in killing Bharatha . Killing someone who has caused to harm
to us earlier is not against Dharma.”
96.24
“Oh Rama. Earlier Bharatha has not bothered about Dharma and caused you harm
and when such a person is slain, you will rule this earth.”
96.25
“Let Kaikeyi who desires to have the kingdom, see her son
being slain by me in the battle , like a
tree is being harmed by the elephant.”
96.26
“I shall also kill Kaikeyi along with her attendants and
relatives and let the earth get rid of this
great blot today.”
96.27
“Oh One with honour, let me get rid of my suppressed
anger and dishonour today and offer this
army of enemies , like thickets to the fire.”
96.28
“Today I will wet the forests of Chithrakuta with the bloodshed by the
enemies when I slay them with sharpened
arrows,” 96.29
“Let the wild animals of these forests drag the elephants
and horses , whose hearts are pierced by
my arrows.”
96.30
“By killing the armies of Bharatha in this great forest , without any doubt I shall
discharge the debts to my arrows.”
96.31
This is the end of the ninety sixth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
97. Rama tells Lakshmana that Bharatha has come to give back the kingdom
(Rama tells
Lakshmana that Bharatha has come there
to take them back to Ayodhya. Since the white flag of their father is not seen they conclude that their father has not cpme.)
After that Rama pacified the son of Sumithra who was outrageously angry and greatly agitated and told him the following. 97.1
“When the very intelligent Bharatha holding a great bow
has come here , where is the need for a bow , shield or sword?” 97.2
“After giving a promise to my father , if I kill Bharatha
who has come here , what will I do with the kingdom along with imputations of bad conduct?”
97.3
“I shall not accept the declining wealth got by
destroying my friends and relatives ,
since it is like eating the food mixed with poison.”
97.4
“Oh Lakshmana, I seek Dharma, legitimate wealth and pleasure and this kingdom only for your sake and I am swearing this by my sword.”
97.5
“Oh Lakshmana I am seeking this kingdom for drawing together my brothers as well as
for their pleasure. I swear this by the weapons that I am holding.”
97.6
“Of soft natured one , this earth dressed by oceans is
not at all difficult for me to get, but
I do not want even the position Of Indra by means which is against
Dharma.” 97.7
“Oh one with respect, Without Bharatha, yourself and
Shatrugna , if there is even a little happiness for me , let it be reduced to ash by fire.” 97.8
“Oh valorous one , Oh best among men, Bharatha who loves
his brothers and is dearer than life to
me ,after returning to Ayodhya must have
learnt that me , you and Sita wearing antelope skin and matted locks have been
banished, remembering the duties of his
race , with love and mind filled with distress
and agitated senses has arrived here to see me and I do not think he has
come for any other reason.”
97.9-97.11
“After getting angry and talking harsh unpalatable words to his mother Kaikeyi and after pleasing our father , has come here
to give the kingdom to me.”
97.12
“That Bharatha has come here to see us thinking that it
is an appropriate time and never ever
thought of bringing harm to us.”
97.13
“Why are you not liking Bharatha? Has he done any harm to
you? Has he threatened you any time in
the past.?”
97.14
“You should not talk harsh words or
words of hatred against Bharatha
.If you talk any unpalatable words against him, I would think that they are
directed against me.”
97.15
“Oh son of Sumithra, whatever may be the calamity would a son kill his father and how can a
brother kill his own brother , whom he loves
like life?”
97.16
“Suppose you are speaking these words for the sake of the
kingdom, on seeing Bharatha, I would ask him to give the kingdom to you.”
97.17
“Oh Lakshmana, if I tell Bharatha, “Give this kingdom to
Lakshmana” , he would on hearing it would see “So be it.”
97.18
Hearing the words of his brother steeped in Dharma , for
the sake of welfare of his brother, entered in to his own body with sense of
shame.
97.19
Having heard the words of Rama, Lakshmana felt ashamed
and said, “I think that it is our father
who has come to see us.”
97.20
Seeing that Lakshmana was ashamed , Rama
said to him, “I also think that the mighty armed Dasaratha has come here to see us.” 97.21
“Or else thinking
that we are accustomed to life
which is pleasant , he must have come to take us back to our home.”
97.22
“Our good father
of the Raghu clan, this lady
Vaidehi who has been brought up in luxurious surroundings from the forest.”
97.23
“Oh valorous one , those are the great horses which are thoroughbred , pretty and having the speed of wind, which are
shining .”
97.24
“There is that aged
elephant Satrunjaya which is
moving in front of the army , which belongs to our sagacious father .” 97.25
“Oh mighty one, But I do not see the white flag of our father , which is respected by the
people of the world, which makes doubt
arise in my mind.”
97.26
“Oh Lakshmana, please do as I say and climb down from the
tree.” Thus told the soul of Dharma Rama
to the son of Sumithra .
97.27
The conqueror of the enemy got down from the Sala tree and having got down stood with folded hands
near Rama.
97.28
When Bharatha instructed the army not to crowd the
hermitage , the army encamped around the mountain.
97.29
The army of Ikshuvaku clan thronged with horses , elephants and chariots
moved away half a yojana(one mile) and
encamped by the side of the mountain.
97.30
That army which
was brought by Bharatha , following Dharma and leaving aside pride , with a
view to please Rama, the descendent of Raghu clan, shined.
97.31
This is the end of the ninety seventh chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
98.Bharatha spots Rama’s
hut
(Methodically Bharatha
searches for the residence of Rama and after great search spots a hut from which smoke is coming out. He concludes that it is
Rama ‘s residence and goes towards it with Guha.)
That Bharatha the best among those who walk with two feet after encamping
his army , as per what he has been told
by his father approached Rama on
foot.
98.1
After encamping the army
and assuring that the army would not transgress its limits , Bharatha told Shatrugna.
98.2
“Oh soft one, it is only proper for us to examine this
forest carefully and quickly in company
of the hunters and other people .”
98.3
“Let Guha along
with thousand people of our clan all
armed with bow and arrow explore the
forest for the presence of Rama.”
98.4
“I myself surrounded
with ministers , citizens,
teachers and Brahmins shall move
about in the forest on foot.”
98.5
“I shall not get peace till I am able to find the very
powerful Rama, the strong Lakshmana as well as
Sita.”
98.6
“Till such time as I see Rama with a moon like face , lotus like eyes and an auspicious looks, I will not be able to find peace .” 98.7
“Till I catch hold of the feet of Rama bearing the signs of royalty on his head and
saluting him with my head , I will not be able to attain peace .” 98.8
“Till he gets the kingdom , which was inherited from my father and grandfather and for which he deserves and he I is anointed with water as its king, I will not get peace.” 98.9
“Till he gets the kingdom , which was inherited from my father and grandfather and for which he deserves and he I is anointed with water as its king, I will not get peace.” 98.9
“The son of Sumithra is indeed blessed , because he is
seeing highly shining Rama who has a
face as pure as the moon, who has eyes resembling red lotus flowers .”
98.10
“Vaidehi the
daughter of Janaka who has greatly luck and who has accomplished her task for she has been following her husband who is
the lord of earth bounded by ocean.” 98.11
“Rama is living on
Chithrakuta mountain which is like the Himalaya
mountains , like Khubera in Nandana garden and how fortunate is that mountain .”
98.12
“The lustrous Rama , who is foremost among the people who
wield weapons is living in this forest
frequented by wild animals and so this forest sacred.”
98.13
Saying this the
greatly lustrous , best among men and very strong Bharatha
entered the great forest on foot
alone.
98.14
That great expert in speech Bharatha went through
the mountain slopes with large
number of trees with their crowns in
full bloom.
98.15
Going near the
sala tree at the top of Chithrakuta mountains , he saw the banner of smoke arising from the fire place
of Rama’s hermitage.
98.16
That great Bharatha along with his relatives after seeing
that smoke concluded that Rama was living there
and became as happy as a man who
reached the other shore of the
river. 98.17
That great Bharatha
having heard that Chithrakuta mountain houses many sages , ordered his
army to stay at a distance and went towards Rama’s hermitage along with
Guha. 98.18
This is the end of the ninety eighth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
99.Bharatha meets Rama
9Bharatha first identifies the hut by several symbols and
then sees Rama with a matted hair and wearing bark cloths sitting. He crying
salutes him. Rama hugs him and Shatrugna
with love.)
After encamping the army , Bharatha showed the
way to Shatrugna and eagerly went to see his
brother.
99.1
Bharatha who respects elders requested sage Vasishta to bring his mothers and
proceeded very quickly . 99.2
Sumanthra who was also impatient to see Rama
like Bharatha , followed
Shatrugna not far behind .
99.3
After the majestic
Bharatha while walking towards
the leafy hut of his brother in the
solitude of ascetics
saw the thatched cottage.
99.4
In front of the hut Bharatha saw chopped logs of wood as well as flowers which have
been plucked.
99.5
He who was proceeding
to the hermitage to see Rama and Lakshmana, here and there saw
stripped pieces of Kusa grass and strips of wood tied on the tree to indicate the path. 99.6
He also saw in the
forest large quantities of
heaps of dried dung of deer and bison , which can be used to heat
themselves in cold.
99.7
That mighty lustrous
one, seeing all these signs of residence was greatly rejoiced and
spoke to Shatrugna and other ministers who were
surrounding him. 99.8
“We must have reached the place described by sage Bharadwaja and river Mandakini is flowing not far from here.”
99.9
“Here long lengths of bark garments have been tied high
up so that , at times people can
identify the path .”
99.10
“This is the place where large tusked mighty
elephants are trumpeting and
charging at each other.”
99.11
“ This black trail of smoke is seen from
the hermitage of those ascetics living
in the forest who alone wish
to maintain the perpetual fire .”
99.12
“Here I will see
Rama, the tiger among men , who wishes to honour elders, who is a gentleman, who is joyful and who
looks likes sages.” 99.13
In a short time that Bharatha reached the Chithrakuta
mountains as well as the river Mandakini
and he then told his ministers.
99.14
“That tiger among men , having reached this secluded
forest , is sitting on a yogic posture on the bare ground . Oh fie upon
life.”
99.15
“That lord of men
Rama, with very great luster has reached this state because of me and is living in the forest
after giving up all desires.”
99.16
“Like this being hated by the world , I would fall at the
feet of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana
seeking their grace .”
99.17
Bharatha
lamenting in this way noticed in that
forest an excellent, sacred and enchanting hermitage covered with abundance of leaves of Sala, palmyra
and Aswakarna trees with a sacrificial
altar spread with soft kusa grass. Bows, plaited on the back with gold and resembling
Indra’s thunderbolt which was powerful, capable of achieving great exploits
and oppressing the enemies, adorned the hut. Arrows glittering like the rays of
the sun, which looked terrible , with
burning heads and stored in quivers
adorned it like the hooded serpents illumining the city of Bhogavati (in nether
world). A pair of swords in scabbards made of excellent silver, two shields of
different colours with golden spots, finger-guards made of skin of iguana
decorated with gold were hanging there. It was impregnable to enemy hordes like
a cave of lion to the deer.
99.18-99.23
Bharatha
saw in Rama ‘s residence a broad
divine altar of fire sloping towards north east. 99.24
When he examined the hut , he noticed his elder brother
Rama , who was sitting there with matted
hair. 99.25
Rama who was the lord of earth bounded by the
sea , was like a blazing fire , seated
dressed in antelope skin and bark of wood , with shoulders like lion and
he was mighty armed, with eyes resembling white lotus . He looked like the
perennial protector of Dharma like the creator Brahma and Sita and Lakshmana were seated by his
side on grass strewn on the earth. 99.26-99.28
Having seen that gentle Bharatha , who was the son of
Kaikeyi and the soul of Dharma, who was drowned in sorrow and grief rushed
towards Rama.
99.29
Seeing him wailing and voice choked with tears and though
he was not able to speak , with courage
he said these words.
99.30
“He , my elder brother who should sit in the royal assembly
attended by ministers and his subjects is being
surrounded by the animals in the forest.”
99.31
“That great Rama who is the follower of Dharma who is accustomed to wear thousands of cloths
now wears only
two pieces of deer skin.” 99.32
“How does Rama who
used to wear many coloured
flowers able to bear the weight of the matted hairs?”
99.33
“That Rama who used to accumulate Dharma by performance of various Yagnas , is
now accumulating it by getting his
body tired.”
99.34
“How , can he who used to coat his body with very
precious sandal paste, is able to bear
it being coated with mud?”
99.35
“Rama has fallen in to this great misfortune because of me
and bad behaviour with him I am
condemned by the world, fie on me.”
99.36
Crying like this with his face becoming like a faded lotus flower and with sweat gushing out of him, he further
wailed and without reaching the feet of
Rama fell down.
99.37
The very strong
prince Bharatha becoming jaded
with sorrow could only say , “My great brother “ and
he was not
able to talk anything further. 99.38
On seeing the glorious Rama with a sob choked throat he cried Oh gentle one , and
he was not able to talk further.
99.39
Shatrugna also cried and fell at Rama ‘s feet and Rama embraced both of them and shed tears. 99.40
The two princes(Rama and Lakshmana) met with Sumanthra
and Guha, and it liked the sun and the
moon met Guru(Jupiter) and Shukra(Venus)
.
99.41
Seeing the princes resembling the power of herds of elephants in the forest , the inhabitants of the forest
shed tears in great distress.
99.42
This is the end of the ninety ninth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
100.Rama enquires about ruling of kingdom of Ayodhya.
(Rama enquires about various aspects of ruling of the
kingdom. These also teach how to rule the kingdom.)
Seeing Rama with matted locks and dressed in cloths of bark, Bharatha fell on the ground in salutation and like
the Sun at the time deluge , it
was impossible to see him.
100.1
Rama with great difficulty recognized , his emaciated
brother Bharatha with pale looks and
having recognized him caught hold his arm and lifted him up.
100.2
Having kissed him on the head Rama also hugged him and made him sit on his lap and with composed mind
enquired.
100.3
“Oh child , you have come to forest and where does our
father live? It is not proper for you to come to the forest while he is still
living.
100.4
“I have come to a very long distance in to this forest
and after a long time, I am seeing you .Oh Bharatha, why have you come with emaciated limbs in to this forest.”
100.5
“Oh child , when you came here, was Dasaratha our father
, alive and in good health? Did he depart from this world due to great
dejection?”
100.6
“Oh soft natured
one, being sad I hope you have not lost
the stability of the kingdom ?I hope you have not lost the trust of the people ?Dear
Child , I am hoping that you are doing service to our father who is valorous in truth?”
100.7
“I hope the king
Dasaratha is true to his promise and he is performing Yagas like Aswamedha and
Rajasooya and has determined to observe
Dharma. “ 100.8
“Oh lad, I hope
that you are honouring Brahmins, learned people, people who daily observe
Dharma, , people of great luster and the teachers of Ikshuvaku clan.” 100.9
“Oh lad I hope that Kausalya and Sumithra are happy being honoured by citizens and the honoured Lady Kaikeyi is happy.”
100.10
“I hope you are
honoring the priest (Suyagna son of
Vasishta) who is famous , of a noble family , not envious and
person with great humility.”
100.11
“I hope that a intelligent Brahmin learned in rituals and
just , who is employed to protect the
sacred fires informs you in time about it and feeds the fire with oblations in
time.” 100.12
“Oh lad, I hope that you honour the gods , your
ancestors, your teachers , your aged father, doctors as well as Brahmins.”
100.13
“Oh lad, I hope you treat with respect Sudhanva , your
teacher in archery , who is well versed
in upkeep of arrows and bows as well as in political economy.”
100.14
“I hope the ministers
who are equal in valour to you and who
are learned and are able to control their senses and are born in noble families and skilled in interpretation of signs are
assigned to you.” 100.15
“Oh Bharatha, proper advise is the main source of
victory of kings , which are given in
secret by great ministers who are well
versed in Sasthras.”
100.16
“I hope you do not become a slave to sleep and are able
to wake up at the proper time .I hope you think about appropriateness of an action late at night.”
100.17
“I hope you do not analyze a problem alone nor do it with
large number of people .I hope these analysis or consultations
with ministers does not reach the people before decision is taken.” 100.18
“Oh Bharatha, I hope , you execute your actions speedily , after
determining its cost (need) and benefit for large number of
people.”
100.19
“I hope the other kings know about you plans after they are implemented and those which are properly completed but
not those you have planned.”
100.20
“Oh lad, I hope others do not know about your discussions and strategies or
enquiries with your ministers which you have not made known .”
100.21
“I hope you desire to consult one wise man rather than
one thousand fools , for a wise man would be able to take decision on difficult matters to your advantage.”
100.22
“If a king employs one thousand fools or even ten
thousand of them , he will not get any
real help from them.” 100.23
“Even a single bold, intelligent , skilful and discerning minister can bring great prosperity to a king or one rules a kingdom.”
100.24
“I hope you have
employed most efficient people to do most important jobs , mediocre people
for jobs of medium importance ,
people of inferior intellect to do unimportant jobs.” 100.25
“I hope you are choosing ministers who do not give way to temptations , who have high integrity , whose father and
forefathers were ministers and who are
eminent for attending to superior
tasks.”
100.26
“Oh son of Kaikeyi , I hope that your ministers would not permit citizens to be
terrorized with excessive punishment
.”
100.27
“I hope the priests
in charge of performing sacrifice,
do not hold you in contempt
for receiving
unmerited(terrible) gifts like a women holding
contempt men with great lust.” 100.28
“All educated expert tricksters, warriors who are greatly passionate for wealth and those who corrupt the mind of servants to rebel against the master , would destroy
the king and so should be killed.”
100.29
“I hope you have appointed a man as commander in chief,
who is contended, brave, intelligent m steadfast , honest , thoroughbred devoted and efficient.” 100.30
“ I hope you honour those great soldiers who are strong,
skilled in warfare , who were responsible for heroic deeds and courageous.”
100.31
“I hope you properly feed your army and give them suitable wages when they are due without any delay
whatsoever.”
100.32
“It has been told in the scriptures that if the wages and compensation for the servants are unduly delayed, they
would turn against the master and calamity would result.” 100.33
“I hope all men of
good birth are loyal to you and I hope that those men of steady mind
would be prepared to sacrifice their life
for your cause.”
100.34
“Oh Bharatha , I hope you have chosen an efficient and
intelligent man who belongs to our folk,
who is an intellectual , a realist and
an expert , as your representative(ambassador/messenger)
.” 100.35
“I hope you gather intelligence using three spies each
who cannot be recognized , about, eighteen important officers of the enemy and
fifteen of your side.”
100.36
“oh killer of enemies , I hope you are alert about all enemies who were defeated by you and gone back ,
especially the weak ones.”
100.37
“Oh lad, I hope you do not serve those Brahmins , who are
this worldly , think that they are the only
great ones and bother only about
themselves since they are sure to bring disaster.” 100.38
“These bad brained ones having acquired futile
knowledge relating to science and logic
, unnecessarily enter in to arguments ,
even though the Dharma Sasthras are
existing.”
100.39
“Oh Lad. I am hoping that you are protecting Ayodhya,
formerly inhabited by our ancestors ,
and true to its name( that which cannot be conquered) with sturdy gates ,
crowded by elephants, horses and chariots, inhabited by thousands of
Brahmins who are busy with their rituals
, who have full control over their sense organs
who are highly energetic and venerable, by Kshatriyas and Vaisyas
engaged in their own professions ,
surrounded by palaces of every kind, thronged by very learned people with
availability of anything that is needed.”
100.40-100.42
“Oh Bharatha , I hope
the villages are adorned with
hundreds of altars , filled with abundantly peaceful people , shining with
temples, free water storages for distribution, filled with happy men and women, with many community festivals , well tilled
land, with lots of cattle, totally free
of cruelties , pretty lands exclusively
dependent on rain which is kept free of pests , which land is also free of
the fear uncertainties, studded with mines of various mineral ores,
which villages are free of destitute and sinful people , well protected by our
forefathers, and full of abodes filled
with prosperity and happiness.”
100.43-100.46
“Oh lad, I trust that all those depending on agriculture
and Animal husbandry are favourable to you , for the happiness of the world depends on their efforts.” 100.47
“I hope you are helping to maintain and protect their efforts and prevent adversities for
them. The king protects according his Dharma all people living in his kingdom.” 100.48
“I hope you pacify women as well give them good
protection. I hope you are not trusting them completely or share any secrets with them.”
100.49
“I hope you protect
the elephants in the forest and
I hope there are she elephants there .I hope you have large number of
mares and you are not contented with
their number.”
100.50
“I hope you rise up very early and also see daily and
present yourself well adorned to the
people of the great avenue .”
100.51
“I hope that the servants do not present themselves directly to you. I hope that they do not stay
far away due to fear of you. It is better
that you follow a middle course.”
100.52
“I hope that all forts are provided with wealth , grains
and water. I hope that they are provided with complete machines of war and craftsmen to repair it
and also have men armed with bow.”
100.53
“Oh Bharatha, I hope that your revenue is abundant and expenditure is much less . I hope that your
treasury is not put under control of undeserving persons.”
100.54
“I hope you are
spending only on Gods , ancestors, Brahmins, guests , warriors and your
hoard of friends.” 100.55
“I hope a pure hearted man who is venerable and honest who is accused of unworthy act is not slain
out of avarice without consulting scholars well versed in scriptures.”
100.56
“Oh best among men, a thief who is caught at time of the stealing , accused and interrogated is not set free due to avarice of money , if
there is sufficient evidence.”
100.57
“Oh Bharatha, I hope that your ministers are
well informed and behave without
partiality towards a rich man or a poor
man who is suffering.”
100.58
“Oh Bharatha, the tears of those who are falsely accused and commanded
by the king for the sake of
getting pleasure , would destroy his sons as well as cattle.”
100.59
“Oh Bharatha I hope you handle children, old people and learned people with gift, affection and kind words, so
that those groups would thrive.” 100.60
“I am hoping that you treat with respect your gurus, old
people, sages , gods, guests , temples , great people and Brahmins.” 100.61
“I am hoping that
you are not destroying Dharma for the sake of property, not destroying
prosperity for words of flattery and
not destroying both for the sake of sensual enjoyment.” 100.62
“Oh Bharatha, you are a victor , chosen one , expert in
allocation of time and granter of wishes and I hope you are attending to Dharma, Artha and
Kama by allocating sufficient time for
each.” 100.63
“Oh Very intelligent one who has understood the
meaning of all Sasthras , I hope the Brahmins and other
citizens of our kingdom are seeking
your welfare.”
100.64
“I hope you are avoiding the fourteen draw backs of a king viz. atheism, propensity to tell
lies, anger , listless attention, laziness, avoiding wise people, lethargy ,
gratification of the five senses , planning the matters regarding state alone, consultation in people who are experts in worthless acts , failure
to carry out acts which has been already
decided , inability to keep advice received as secret , not doing auspicious acts , and making
preparations for an unpractical war. 100.65-100.67
"O, the very wise Bharatha , I hope you understand the following and deal
them properly the ten evils(1); the five kinds of fortifications(2); the four
expedients(3); the seven limbs of state(4); the eight evils (born of anger) the
three objects of human pursuit(5); the three branches of learning(6)
subjugation of the senses, the six strategic expedients(7); adversity brought
about by divine agencies(8); and by human agencies(9); the twenty types of
monarchies(10); and the entire population of the kingdom, setting about an
expedition, drawing up an army in a battle-array and the two bases viz, peace
and war.”
(Not clear to me. I have
reproduced it from another
translation.) 100.68-100.70
“I believe that you are consulting with three or four ministers
separately as well as combined in
complete secrecy , as laid in Sasthras.”
100.71
“I think reading of Vedas is
good for you . I hope your actions teach
you to do better. I hope your wife serves you fruitfully. I hope you learn good
things from what you hear.”
100.72
“Oh Bharatha, I hope that
whatever I have told you is agreeing with your own thought process and would lead to fame, Dharma, Artha and
Kama.”
100.73
“I hope you are following the
principles followed by our father and our ancestors , because those auspicious
principles will lead you in the path of
Dharma.”
100.74
“Oh Bharatha, I hope you do
not eat food that is deliciously
prepared all alone , but you share it with those friends
who desire for that food.”
100.75
“That king of great
intelligence , who acquires the entire
earth and rules the earth with Dharma, punishes the
people according to tradition , after his death will reach the heaven after death.”
100.76
This is the end of the hundredth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
101.Bharatha tells about death of Dasaratha
(Bharatha tells Rama that according to Dharma, he is not fit to rule
and asks him to return. He also
Tells him about the death of Dasaratha, their father.)
After hearing the words of Rama, Bharatha replied, “When I am bereft of Dharma, how am
I concerned with royal Dharma?”
101.1
“Oh best of men, there exists a permanent Dharma in our
clan that when the elder son is alive the younger son never becomes the
king.”
101.2
“So oh Rama,
return with me to the prosperous Ayodhya , and consecrate yourself as king for the good of our clan.”
101.3
“People consider king as another man but I consider him
as God, because such a king along with
Dharma and Artha is beyond the
definition of humanness.”
101.4
“When I was in Kekaya and when you had come to the forest
, the revered , virtuous, esteemed king who
was fit to do fire sacrifices
went to the heaven.”
101.5
“As soon as you left along with Sita and Lakshmana , the
king who was affected by sorrow and grief
, went to heaven.”
101.6
“Oh tiger among men, arise and offer the ritualistic
libations with water to father,. Me and
Shatrugna have already offered such
libations.”
101.7
“Oh Rama, whatever has been offered with love becomes
eternal in the world of manes and so as
you are most loved by father , please offer
such libations.”
101.8
“Sorrowing about
and not being able to see you and
keeping his mind fixed only on you and nothing else and remembering
you, our father went to heaven.” 101.9
This is the end of the hundred and one chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
102.Rama offers libation to his father
(Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana went to Mandakini river and offered water
libations. Then he offered Pinda to his father
using a fruit cake and juice ,. When all of them were crying many of the
people of the army rushed there and
consoled Rama.)
Hearing these words of anguish , uttered by Bharatha
relating to the death of his father, Rama lost his consciousness.
102.1
The destroyer of enemies Rama, hearing the thunderbolt like words of Bharatha , felt as if the Indra has hurled
his thunderbolt and hit his mind , and
fell down raising his hands , like a
tree laden with flowers cut by an axe in the forest.
102.2-102.3
On that Rama, the lord of the word , the mighty
archer who was afflicted with great
grief from all sides and who had fallen
on the earth, down tired like an elephant hitting the banks of the river again and again, the weeping Vaidehi and others sprinkled
water to wake him up.. 102.4-102.5
Rama , the son of Kakustha clan regained consciousness and shedding
copious tears from his eyes , started talking with great sorrow.
102.6
Rama, the soul of Dharma , hearing that the king has gone to heaven told Bharatha these words which conform to
Dharma.
102.7
“Since my father has gone in the path ordained by the
gods, what will I do in Ayodhya? Who would now rule Ayodhya which has lost the best of kings?”
102.8
“What is the use of me who is born in evil to that great soul , for whom I could not even
perform the last rites?”
102.9
“Oh blemish less
Bharatha, since you and Shatrugna have
done the last rites including the ritual of the corpse , you have achieved your
goal and are fortunate.”
102.10
“Even after completion of my living in the forest , I do
not desire to return to Ayodhya , which
has lost its lord and is without any direction.”
102.11
“Oh destroyer of enemies , after completing my life in
the forest , who will guide me in
Ayodhya , when our father has gone to
the other world?”
102.12
“Formerly , our father observing my good conduct , use to
tell me comforting words which were pleasant to my ears. From whom else can I
hear such words?”
102.13
After saying these to Bharatha, Rama went near his wife
Sita who had a face like a full moon and
said to her with great grief.
102.14
“Oh Sita, your father in law is dead. Oh Lakshmana you
have lost your father. Bharatha was relating to me the sad news
of the lord of the world going to heaven.”
102.15
When Rama was telling all this, copious tears were shed
from the eyes of the sons of
Dasaratha , the son of the Kakustha clan.
102.16
Then all the brothers together greatly consoled Rama and told him, “Please
offer libations to our father who was the king of the world.”
102.17
That Sita hearing that her father in law had gone to
heaven , had her eyes filled with tears and could not properly see her
husband.
102.18
Rama after consoling the daughter of Janaka who was
crying , spoke to Lakshmana who was overcome with grief in a distressed way. 102.19
“I am going to offer
water libations to our great
father. So please bring the Inguli oil cake
as also my upper garment made of bark.”
102.20
“Let Sita walk in front of us and you go ahead of
her and I would follow you both.. This
procession of mourning is indeed sorrowful.”
102.21
Then Sumanthra who was intelligent , soft natured , self
restrained, peaceful , staunchly devoted to Rama and who used to always follow them , consoled
them and followed them and taking hold
of them and helped them to descend in to the river. 102.22-102.23
Then those illustrious ones conveniently got down in to
the enchanting , swiftly flowing Mandakini river surrounded by forests in
bloom and approached a place that was
not slushy and using the sacred waters
of the river , offered libations of water
saying “Oh father , let this be yours.” 102.24-102.25
The king Rama took one hand full of water , faced the
Southern direction(Direction of Yama)
and crying said these words.
102.26
“Oh tiger among kings, now you have attained the world of
our manes. Let this pure water which is
offered to you be inexhaustible.”
102.27
Then Rama reached the shores of Mandakini river and coming out from there , along with his
brothers offered Pinda for his father.”
102.28
That Rama mixed fruits of Badari tree with pulp of Ingudi
tree and made balls kept them on Durba grass, overcome with distress started
weeping and told.
102.29
“Oh great king, we are offering you the food that we
normally take . I request you to please take it , because a man can offer only
whatever he partakes to his manes.”
102.30
Thereafter the tiger among men ascended the river by the
same path that they descended and
climbed the charming slopes of the mountain.
102.31
That king after reaching entered through the
door of the
leafy hut and took hold oh Bharatha
and Lakshmana in his arms.
102.32
The wailing of the brothers mingled with that of Vaidehi echoed
in the forest like the roar of
a lion.
102.33
Hearing the very great sound created by those mighty
brothers while offering water libations
to their father as well the wailing of the brothers , the army was
scared.
102.34
“It is certain that Bharatha has met with Rama and this loud sound is their wailing over the
death of their father.”
102.35
All of them , then left their camps and ran towards that sound
with only a single thought in
their mind.
102.36
Some went on horses, some went on elephants and some on
well decorated chariots and other men went on foot.
102.37
All the people went towards the hermitage to see Rama, as
if he has gone long back , though he had only gone recently.
102.38
With a wish to see the meeting of brothers , all those
people went on every sort of vehicle creating
sounds of hooves and wheels.
102.39
That earth crushed by very many vehicles and great many
hooves , it emitted tumultuous sounds like the sky makes a sound when storm clouds are
gathered.
102.40
Terrified by that sound the
male elephants followed by she
elephants ran from there to another
forest emitting the smell of ichors.
102.41
Hosts of boars and wolves , buffaloes, serpents, monkeys
, tigers antelopes with ears like cow, tigers and other animals were also
frightened.
102.42
Brahminy ducks, water cranes, geese, karandava birds , cranes , male cuckoos and Krouncha birds , losing their senses reached different places.
102.43
Frightened by the sound, birds filled up the sky and people covered the earth and both of them shined.
102.44
All those people then saw Rama, who was famous, the tiger
among men, the destroyer of enemies sitting on the bare earth.
102.45
Those people who reached to that place ,
became completely tear faced and
berated Kaikeyi along with Mandhara .
102.46
Thereafter Rama who was a follower of Dharma seeing those people deeply sorrowing and with eyes full of tears hugged
them all treating them as his father or mother. 102.47
Rama embraced some men, while some others saluted him and afterwards the king’s son Rama honoured the relations and friends who have
reached there, according to their status.
102.48
The weeping sound
made by those great persons filled the
heaven and earth and mountains and caves
and all directions reverberated .
102.49
This is the end of the hundred and second chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
103.Kausalya and others see Rama
(Kausalya and other mothers of Rama along with
Vasishta went to meet Rama. On the way
they see the pinda made of Ingudi cake. Kausalya is upset and then all of them
go and meet Rama. Rama, Sita and Lakshmana salute them.)
The wives of Dasaratha
followed by sage Vasishta on foot with an intense desire to see Rama.
103.1
The wives of the king, when they were slowly
proceeding towards river Mandakini , saw the bathing place of Rama and Lakshmana.
103.2
Kausalya who was an emaciated face with eyes full of tears addressing
Sumithra and other wives told.
103.3
“This is a sacred place of the river which is east of the
forest where those orphans who are expelled from the country are
doing tireless deeds in spite of
difficulties.”
103.4
“Oh Sumithra from here your son Lakshmana carries
water for the sake of my son without any
laziness .”
103.5
“Though your son is engaged in such
manual tasks like bringing water , it should not be looked down because
all the tasks he does his brother are
with Dharma.”
103.6
“Your son who is not accustomed to hardship , if he stops
this service , it would be greatly
distressing .”
103.7
Then Kausalya with
very broad eyes saw the Ingudhi pindas kept on Dharbha spread on earth pointing towards the south .
103.8
After seeing those pindas kept on earth by the distressed Rama , Kausalya addressing
the wives of king Dasaratha told.
103.9
“Please see these Pindas kept by Rama for the sake
of his father great Dasaratha , the lord of Ikshuvaku race.”
103.10
“I do not think that this is a proper food for the great
king, who was like God and one who
enjoyed good food .”
103.11
“How can he eat the cake made of pulp of Ingudi , as he was a great king resembling
Indra , who has enjoyed
food of all the four corners of
the earth?” 103.12
“There is nothing more sad in the
world than , the once rich Rama
had to offer his father the cake
make of Ingudi pulp.”
103.13
“Seeing that Rama has
offered his father the cake made of Ingudi pulp , I wonder why my heart
is not breaking in sorrow?”
103.14
“There is a well known saying in the world that man
offers what he eats only to the God and
it appears to me truthful in this
case.”
103.15
The distressed co
wives after having consoled Kausalya
were distressed went in to the hermitage
and saw Rama who looked like a God fallen from heaven. 103.16
Those mothers who were emaciated with grief , seeing Rama
who has given up all luxuries were overcome with sorrow and loudly
cried.
103.17
Rama, the tiger among men, true to his valour in war ,
after standing up touched the feet of all his mothers .
103.18
Those broad eyed queens with soft hands and fingers ,
with their auspicious hands wiped away the dust from the back of Rama.
103.19
After seeing those mothers , the son of Sumithra also
became sad following Rama bowed in
reverence to them.
103.20
Those ladies of
Dasaratha loved Lakshmana, who was the son of Dasaratha who was blessed with
auspicious qualities , just
like Rama . 103.21
Sita also with great
sorrow caught the feet of those mothers and stood before them
with tear filled eyes.
103.22
Like a mother embracing her daughter , Kausalya embraced
the grief stricken Sita who was looking haggard due to living in the
forest. 103.23
“How is it that the daughter of the king of Videha and
the daughter in law of king Dasaratha
and also wife of Rama, has fallen in to this sorrow in this uninhabited forest?”
103.24
“Oh Vaidehi, seeing your face which is like a lotus
flower withered in heat, a faded water lily, dust defiled gold, moon hidden by
clouds , the fire of sorrow produced by the firewood of calamities is greatly
burning my mind.”
103.25-103.26
While his mother was talking these words of anguish, the
elder brother of Bharatha , Rama clasped the feet of sage Vasishta.”
103.27
Then Rama clasped the feet of his family priest who was
exceedingly lustrous like a burning fire , like the king of devas clasping the feet of Bruhaspathi, and sat
down with him. 103.28
When they sat down along with the ministers, important
citizens and along with soldiers,
Bharatha an expert in Dharma also sat along
with his elder brother.
103.29
The valorous Bharatha
looked at the greatly lustrous
and majestic Rama , dressed like a sage and sat down near him , like Indra
after purification sits near Lord Brahma.
103.30
Among the gentlemen assembled there great curiosity arose
as to what greatly persuasive words
Bharatha is going to speak after
saluting and honouring Rama .
103.31
Rama was shining
in truth, the great Lakshmana and
Bharatha the expert in Dharma surrounded by his friends were looking like three sacrificial fires
surrounded by the priests. 103.32
This is the end of the hundred and third chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
104. Rama advises
Bharatha
(Rama asks Bharatha , the reason why he has come to the
forest wearing matted locks. Bharatha replies that his mother is a bad woman.
Rama chastises Bharatha for saying that and refuses to come back from the
forest.)
After Rama consoled Bharatha who is liked by elders , he along with
Lakshmana began to ask Bharatha.
104.1
“For what
reason have you come to this
region, dressed in deer skin and wearing matted locks ? I would like to
hear it from you?” 104.2
“For what reason have you left the kingdom
and come to this place wearing
deer skin and with matted locks ?It
is proper for you to tell me about it.”
104.3
When the great son of Kakustha clan asked like this to Bharatha
, the son of Kaikeyi , saluted him and
held Rama tightly and told .
104.4
“Oh Rama, our very strong father having done an undesirable act of banishing
you went to heaven due to the sorrow of parting with his son.
“
104.5
“Oh trouble giver to enemies , he did this great sin
which destroyed his reputation
because of the instigation of a
women , who is Kaikeyi , my mother.”
104.6
“She who has become a widow , having not able to get the kingdom , she is under the grip of sorrow
and she who is my mother would fall in the most terrible hell.”
104.7
“It is only proper for you to do a favour to me who is your slave , by
getting yourself crowned as king like Indra.”
104.8
“ Your subjects as well as all your mothers have reached very near to
you and so it is proper that you do this
favour to me.”
104.9
“Oh giver of honour, I feel that it is only proper for
succession and request you take the kingdom as per the wish of your friends and elders.”
104.10
“Let this entire earth adopt you as its lord and stop being a widow , like
the night of autumn becoming bright by
getting a full moon.”
104.11
“I am begging you
along with my ministers with
heads bowed and it is only proper
for you to favour me, who is your brother , disciple as well as slave .”
104.12
“Oh tiger among men, it is not proper for you not to
agree with all your subjects and please
adopt the rules of our heritage which is permanent.”
104.13
That son of Kaikeyi after
telling this with tears in his
eyes , again according to tradition held the feet of Rama.
104.14
Rama hugged his brother who was taking deep breaths again
and again like an elephant in rut and
told him.
104.15
“How can you who belongs to a noble family and who is energetic, powerful and adherent to his
own vows , commit a sin for the sake of
kingdom?”
104.16
“I do not find even the slightest fault in you , oh destroyer of enemies but is
in not proper for you out of childishness
to find fault with your
mother.”
104.17
“Oh very
intelligent one, Oh matchless one, it is
laid down that , elders can act as per
their will in relation to their wives and children.”
104.18
“Oh gentle natured one, in this world good people have
treated their wives , sons and
disciples as virtuous people and so it is only proper that you feel that Dasaratha also did like that.” 104.19
“Oh gentle natured one, only Dasaratha is competent to
decide whether I should live in the forest wearing a deer skin or become a king and rule over
the kingdom.”
104.20
“Oh follower of Dharma, our father has been revered in
this world by those who know Dharma and
similar reverence also should be shown
to our mothers.”
104.21
“Oh Bharatha I have been asked to go to the forest by our mother and father who
both have the character of Dharma
and except obeying them, what else
should I do?” 104.22
“You should go and rule the kingdom of Ayodhya being respected by this world and I should
live in the Dandaka forest wearing cloths of bark.”
104.23
“The great king only after apportioning it like this in
front of the people and commanding us , have gone to the heaven.”
104.24
“The portion that
has been given to us by that king who followed Dharma and who is
much respected by the world , is final and so you shall enjoy your share.” 104.25
“Oh gentle natured one , as told by our great father I
would live in the Dandaka forest for
fourteen years and enjoy
it.”
104.26
“Whatever has been told by my father who was a great soul, who was
honoured by all the world , who is equal
to the wise king of devas is regarded by
me as the ultimate and the desire of the king of the world should not be
disregarded.”
104.27
This is the end of the hundred and fourth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
105.Bharatha argues
in a different way
(Bharatha says , he has right to give back what he got.
He tells has not efficient and cannot
rule the country well. Rama talks of inevitability of life and rejects Bharatha ’s request.)
When those lion among men
were lamenting among their
friends, the night passed off painfully.
105.1
When the night gave
way to dawn , those brothers along with their friends performed morning rituals in the Mandakini river and returned
to Rama.
105.2
All of them sat silently for some time and did not speak with each other and then Bharatha started speaking to Rama.
105.3
“For honouring the words of my mother , you have given the kingdom to me and I am now giving it to you and you please enjoy it without any obstacles.”
105.4
“Like a dam getting burst due to surge of water , due
to great rains cannot be repaired easily , this great kingdom cannot be supported by anyone
else except you.”
105.5
“The speed of
horse or a common bird cannot be
compared to that of the Divine Garuda and I
do not have the same capacity as
you, Oh king.”
105.6
“The life of a man on whom others depend for their life
is happy, but the life of those who depend
on others for their life is miserable.”
105.7
“Oh strong one , oh Excellent lord, If a man plants a tree and it grows in to a
very large tree with a large trunk, with
very many branches , a dwarf man would not be able to climb it. Having put forth lot of flowers
suppose it does not bear fruits , the
purpose for which it was planted is not fulfilled and the man who planted does not get joy out of it. This simile fits
your case.(Dasaratha planted tree of Rama but is not able to see the fruits.)
105.8-105.10
“Oh king, oh destroyer
of enemies , may all the guilds , traders and other citizens see you , when you are installed the
king for all the kingdom like a greatly
lustrous sun.”
105.11
“Oh son of
Kakustha clan, let elephants
intoxicated with ichors trumpet and let the ladies of your private apartment rejoice.”
105.12
Hearing the words of Bharatha requesting him to return,
the different classes of people who live in the city said, “great , well said.”
105.13
Seeing him who is famous,
sad and wailing , the man of great determination
Rama consoled him , who is self
possessed.
105.14
“Any man is not independent and cannot do whatever he
wants , for he is pulled by fate to a
different path from his chosen one.”
105.15
“All wealth depletes and people fall from elevated
positions. Unions end in separations and life ends in death. “
105.16
“Like all the fruits that ripe are afraid of falling
down, , when a man is born his only fear is death.” 105.17
“Any house built on sturdy pillars gets
dilapidated and over time decays and in the same way , men are destroyed by
getting in the grip of old age and
death.”
105.18
“Every night passes away
, never to return and like that
the water filled Yamuna continuously merges its waters with ocean.”
105.19
“The life of all beings gets diminished with passing of
day and night , like the rays of sun drying water by its heat.”
105.20
“Whether you are
standing or moving , life keeps on
diminishing and so you start worrying about yourself only and not
for others.”
105.21
“Death follows a man , wherever he goes and if one sits at a place, death also sits
with him. If a man travels for a long distance and returns, death also returns
with him.”
105.22
“With old age wrinkles form on the body and the hair
turns gray and so what can a man do to
make himself powerful again.”
105.23
“People rejoice when the sun rises and also when it
sets and he faces the decline of his life without being aware of it .”
105.24
“With change of every season man gets overjoyed to
see new flowers or fruits but he does not realize that his life span
also is getting diminished.”
105.25
‘A floating wooden piece meets with another such piece in
the great ocean and after remaining for
some time they are separated after a small passage of time and like that wives, sons , relatives and
money after coming to us are definitely
going to be separated.”
105.26-105.27
“In this world no two beings can be together as much as
they like and so one is competent to be sad in the matter of
death.”
105.28
“Like a man standing on the way side telling to a moving
caravan on the road , that “I am
following behind you,”, one may say that they would follow the path taken by his
grand and great grandfather , anybody who is not able to follow that same path
should not grieve.”
105.29-105.30
“Like the flowing
water , never returns to the source , age passes away. And so keep the mind
happy and follow the established Dharma
and it is said you would be happy
by doing that.” 105.31
“Our father Dasaratha ,
the king, the soul of Dharma and
performer of auspicious deeds, offered
many charities and performed many sacrifices
and went to heaven.”
105.32
“He ruled over his servants splendidly , ruled over his
subjects and accepted wealth as per Dharma and he went to
heaven.”
105.33
“Our father , the king Dasaratha reached heaven by performance of many
auspicious acts , by giving abundant charities
and great offerings in sacrifices.”
105.34
“That king after performing very many sacrifices and obtaining long life , enjoyed abundant
pleasures on this earth and attained heaven.”
105.35
“Oh lad, having enjoyed pleasures of life , our father
has been honoured in heaven and so he should not be grieved about.”
105.36
“Our father after
abandoning his worn out mortal
body , has obtained a divine
treasure and is wandering pleasantly in
the world of Brahma,”
105.37
“It is not proper
for people like me or you to
mourn about the very intelligent and
learned king Dasaratha who was an expert
in scriptures.”
105.38
“This many types of sorrow and
different type of wailings should
be completely avoided at all times by a courageous intelligent
human being.”
105.39
“Oh foremost among eloquent people , do not be sad and
compose yourself. Return to Ayodhya and reside there as per the order of father , who had great control over his
senses.” 105.40
“I have been commanded by
a man of blessed deeds and I shall carry out the order of my father accordingly .” 105.41
“Oh killer of enemies ,
disobeying the orders of my
father to me is not proper, and you also obey it as he was our father and one who loved us.”
105.42
“There , to me the
order of father who was a great follower of Dharma is agreeable and I would obey it by my action and live in the
forest.”
105.43
“Oh tiger among men,
anyone who wants to conquer the other world should follow dharma, be compassionate and
obedient to elders and then only it will happen.”
105.44
“Oh best among men, Please observe within yourself the excellent conduct of king
Dasaratha and having realized it , you observe
your duty.”
105.45
That great Lord
Rama after having addressed , his
younger brother this way in words full
of innate significance “Obey the commands of our father and then stopped. 105.46
This is the end of the hundred and fifth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
106.Bharatha further requests
(Bharatha repeats his arguments in various ways but Rama
rejects them. People are happy with
Bharatha.)
When Rama said these very significant words and rested , Bharatha the follower of Dharma , addressing Rama who
was the soul of Dharma and affectionate by nature told. 106.1
“Oh destroyer of enemies, Neither pain afflicts nor
pleasure makes you joyous. In this world , we cannot find a person of such a
nature . You are beloved of the elders as you ask their advice , when needed.”
106.2-106.3
“What can influence him, who sees death and life as well as joy and sorrow in the same way and is not moved by them?” 106.4
“Oh Lord of men,
it does not proper for a person
like you , who is aware of the comparative merits of everything , to be distressed of anything or lament about
it.”
106.5
“Oh Rama. Oh great soul, you resemble devas in their
nature and you are truthful in warfare. You are all knowing, all seeing and a
man of wisdom.”
106.6
“It is not proper for a person like you endowed with such
qualities and one who is familiar with
life and death to undergo such insufferable pain and sorrow.”
106.7
“When I was away from home , this sin was committed by
my mean minded mother for my sake and this is not liked by
me and so please show your grace on
me.”
106.8
“I am bound by the ties of Dharma and for that reason I am not able to punish
my mother , who deserves punishment by slaying her.”
106.9
“How can I being born to Dasaratha and belonging to a
noble clan wedded to Dharma , knowing the implication of Dharma do such a
reprehensible act which is against
Dharma?” 106.10
“My old
father who was the king , was my teacher
, one who does meritorious acts and was
like God to me .He departed due to old age and so I cannot find fault with him.”
106.11
“Oh expert in Dharma, , will any follower of Dharma do
acts like this which are against Dharma and Artha , just to please a woman at her bidding ?”
106.12
“There is an old saying that ”At the time of death , a
person’s mind is confused” and the acts
of the king proves that this is
true.”
106.13
“Due to anger, passion
and sense of adventure our father
has done this act against Dharma
and so you have to think over it and set it right.”
106.14
“Only a son who considers
only the act performed according to Dharma as good is the true son in this world but if he delights in such an act he is not
considered as good.”
106.15
“So please do not do this undesirable act of approving the wrong doings of the father
which are condemned by people of
wisdom.”
106.16
“Oh Sir, please protect
Kaikeyi, me , father , friends,
relations , citizens of villages and
inhabitants of city and
everything.”
106.17
“Where is forest, where is Dharma of a king, where is matted locks and where is ruling a kingdom? It is not
proper for you to engage in repulsive acts.”
106.18
“Oh very intelligent Rama, to anyone who is born in royal
race , if governance of kingdom is
possible for him, he should crown himself .”
106.19
“Will any person disregarding the Dharma of a Kshatriya adopt the ascetic way
which has uncertain results and
uncertain future?”
106.20
“If you want to follow this Dharma , out of tiresomeness
,it is only proper that you star
governing the four fold division of society , so that this tiresomeness will disappear.”
106.21
“Among the four
modes of life , it is by those who know dharma that the life as a householder is the greatest and
so it is not proper for you to renounce that mode of life.”
106.22
“How can I who is inferior
in intelligence and younger in position by birth to you rule over the kingdom
when you are there?”
106.23
“I am inferior in intelligence and virtue and even inferior
in position to you , and I do not want to live if you are not present.”
106.24
“Oh expert in Dharma, you please rule this country which
was inherited from our father , without
any hindrance along with our relations.”
106.25
“Here itself you
would be crowned in front of your subjects , by sage Vasishta, an expert in rituals in accordance with the ritualistic
chants.”
106.26
“After you are consecrated you return along with all of
us to Ayodhya , like Indra returning to heavens in company of Maruths after
conquering all worlds.”
106.27
“ You alone can rule Ayodhya, discharging the three debts
to devas, sages and manes , completely subduing
your enemies and gratifying the
desires of your friends.”
106.28
‘Oh gentle one,
make all your friends happy by crowning yourself and let your enemies
flee in ten different directions.”
106.29
“Oh best among
men, wipe away the negative feelings of my mother and also protect our father from sin.”
106.30
“I am begging you with bowed head to show mercy on all our relations and like the great God show
mercy on all beings.”
106.31
“In spite of all my requests, if you going from here to
the forest , then I also shall go
along with you.”
106.32
Though requested like this by Bharatha with his head bowed down , the very brave
king Rama , deciding to follow the words of his father decided not to go back
to Ayodhya.
106.33
Seeing the great
determination of Rama , the people assembled there with both happy and sad..They were sad because he was not returning to
Ayodhya and happy because he was greatly determined.
106.34
The priests, the chiefs of merchants and mother who have lost their senses and
were not having a single drop of tear to shed , praised Bharatha for his great words and after saluting Rama with reverence requested him.” 106.35
This is the end of the hundred and sixth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
107.Rama tries to convince
Bharatha
(Rama reminds that Dasaratha has promised the
kingdom as bride price while marrying
Kaikeyi >then he tells the two boons
which were promised to Kaikeyi. He says that it is the duty of Rama and
Bharatha to follow the words of the father.)
The great and well recognized elder brother of Lakshmana who was sitting in the middle of his relations
again addressed Bharatha and spoke.
107.1
“The words that you have
spoken to me are befitting of a son born to Dasaratha , the great king and Kaikeyi.”
107.2
“Oh dear brother, when our father married your
mother at that time of the marriage he had promised your maternal grandfather the great kingdom as a bride price.”
107.3
“Thereafter in the war between devas and asuras , please
and delighted by your mother he had
promised to give her boons.” 107.4
“Oh tiger among men, thereafter your illustrious and fair
complexioned mother after taking an oath
from the great king , demanded the
kingdom for you and banishment for me as the two boons and the king gave those boons as he was bound
by the agreement.” 107.5-107.6
“Oh best among men, your father has ordered me to live in the forest for
fourteen years as per the granting
of the boon.”
107.7
“So I have reached this unrivalled forest without people
along with Lakshmana and Sita, truthful
to his words .”
107.8
“Likewise you also get yourself crowned as king to make our father truthful as fast as
possible, oh great king.”
107.9
“For my sake , make our father who is a lord and the follower of Dharma , free from his
debts and make my mother happy.”
107.10
“I have heard earlier from my father , that the
illustrious king of Gaya , while
performing sacrifice there has told a Vedic hymn as follows .”
107.11
“The son saves the father from the hell known as Puth, and protects his manes forever and that is why a son is called “:Puthra”.
107.12
“So one should desire for many virtuous and learned sons
so that at least one of them might go to Gaya and perform the sacrifice
for manes.”
107.13
“This is what has
been followed by all royal sages, oh son of a king and so oh lord, oh best
among men , so you go and protect our father
from hell.”
107.14
“Oh valorous Bharatha , go to Ayodhya along with
Shatrugna and with the Brahmins and rule and keep the citizens happy.” 107.15
“Without any further delay I will also be entering the
Dandaka forest along with Lakshmana and
Sita .”
107.16
“Oh Bharatha you become the king of human beings and so go to the great city with a mind of
joy. I would become the king of animals
of the wild forest and shall enter the Dandaka forest with a pleased mind.” 107.17
“Oh Bharatha , let an umbrella spread over your head and
repel the harsh rays of the sun and I
shall happily seek , the dense shade of these would land trees and be
pleasant.”
107.18
“Oh Bharatha , let Shatrugna with a very sharp
intelligence be your companion and Lakshmana would be my
best friend and let all the four of us prove that we are
worthy sons of Dasaratha and that he is established in truth.”
107.19
This is the end of the hundred and seventh chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
108.Jabali the
minister who is an atheist tries to reason with Rama.
(Jabali is a great Brahmin , an atheist
and a minister of Dasaratha , tells Rama , that man is born alone and
dies alone. The parents and teachers are only like stops in their way and there is no sich thing called duty towards them.)
When Rama was consoling
Bharatha , a great Brahmin
called Jabali , told Rama the follower
of Dharma , words which were against Dharma.
108.1
“Great , Oh Raghava , Oh noble minded one , Oh high
thinking one , do not entertain nonsensical
thoughts like a common
man.”
108.2
“Any animal is born alone and also dies alone
and so what is the relation of one man to another and what does one man obtain from
another.”
108.3
“Oh Rama, therefore,
when a man is attached to another pointing that person as his mother or his father , he talks like a mad man. Because a
relation does not exist of one
person with another.”
108.4
“Oh son of Kakustha
clan, a person going to another village spends the night at one spot and continues his journey from there next day morning . In the same way , father, mother , home and wealth are but resting places and so wise
people are not attached to them.”
108.5-108.6
“”Oh best of men, you do not deserve to give up the kingdom of your father and
this state which is painful ,
inaccessible and full of thorns.” 108.7
“Go and get your installed as lord in the prosperous city
of Ayodhya , which is waiting for you like a chaste lady with a single
braid.” 108.8
“Oh son of the king, go to Ayodhya which is like the heaven of Indra and sport and enjoy there , the inestimable
royal pleasures.”
108.9
“Dasaratha is nobody to you and you are nobody to him because that king is a
particular person and you are a
different person and so please do as I
tell you.” 108.10
“For any animal father is but a seed and when at the favourable time the semen
mixes with the blood in mother’s womb , the birth of a man takes place.” 108.11
“That king has gone to the place where he is bound to go and that is the fate of all mortals and you are
suffering without any reason.”
108.12
“I am sad for those who
desire for Artha and
Dharma and not for all others because
these people suffer in this world and
are destroyed at time of death.”
108.13
“People perform the sacrifice for the dead , for the spirit of their
manes and offer them food which they
are not going to eat. Please look at the
wastage of food .”
108.14
“If the food that we eat can any way reach the body of
another , then we may offer Sradha to any person who is going to the other world? Would the
food that we offer them reach them, when
they are on their way?” 108.15
“The intelligent people convince people to give
charity and keep on telling them, “Give in Charity”, “Be initiated”,
“Practice austerities “ and “Renounce”
so they will get charities
by such actions.” 108.16
“Oh very intelligent one, there is no next world and
practice that which you like and which
you can
be seen by
you and turn back from what you cannot
see.” 108.17
“Observing very many examples in this world
and treating the opinion of these
wise people as great accept the kingdom
offered by Bharatha. “
108.18
This is the end of the hundred and eighth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
109.Rama denies Jabali ‘s
opinion.
(Rama differs from Jabali
and gets angry with him. Jabali tell Rama , he told those words not
because he is an atheist but to take
back Rama to Ayodhya.)
Hearing the words of Jabali , Rama , the best among
truthful souls, with divine devotion and unshakable intellect
replied.
109.1
“The words that you have just now told with a view to
please me , is unfit to be followed
though it appears to be fit, and appears
beneficial though it is detrimental. “
109.2
“A man who
conducts himself without respect is one endowed with sinful conduct and one who
follows conduct different from accepted
practices is not respected by good men. 109.3
“It is only ones
behaviour that determines whether he belongs to high or low family,
whether he is valorous and respected by
other men or whether he is honest
or dishonest.” 109.4
“Any man who appears to be noble but who is really not noble , appears to be
pure though impure, appears to be endowed with all good while he is bad,
appears to be of good character while he
does not have anything good in him, appears to follow Dharma while he is not creates confusion in this world. Living a
life without pious acts and against the scriptures is
against Dharma and if I were to follow such a life , I would be engaged in
wicked acts and a man discriminating
between good and bad , will not hold me in high esteem.” 109.5-109.7
“If I break the vow
and modify my life from what I
am following now , would I be able instruct good conduct to others and will I
go to heaven?” 109.8
“Then the entire world would do as it likes , for do not citizens
imitate the conduct of their
kings?”
109.9
“Truth is benevolent and
the kings follow it from ancient times and the soul of the kingdom is truth and so
the foundation of people is
truth.”
109.10
“The sages and devas considered truth as supreme and the man speaking truth would not
deteriorate but become divine. “
109.11
“Peop0le are agitated on
seeing a man who does not speak
truth like they have seen a serpent . Truth is the dharma of divine
world and it is told , it is the root cause
of heaven.” 109.12
“Truth is the God of the world and the wealth gets
established in truth . Truth is the root
of everything and there is no salvation
without truth.”
109.13
“Charity, sacrifices
, penance and Vedas are all
firmly established on truth and so
everyone should surrender to the truth.”
109.14
“One person looks after the world , another looks only after
his clan .One person sinks to hell and another rises to heaven ,
depending on how he practices truth.”
109.15
“I am truthful to my promise and a truthful devotee
of truth and why should I not
keep up the promise that I gave to my
father’s order.” 109.16
“Being a votary of truth, I will break the truth
spoken by my father and thus
break the bridge of morality out of
greed , delusion, dark passion or
ignorance.”
109.17
“We have heard that either gods or manes would not
accept the offerings of one who tells lies or one who is unstable and has an unsteady mind.”
109.18
“I personally see that
truth and Dharma as the universal spirit and therefore
I consider any burden in life
which is carried with pleasure by good
people , as good to me also.” 109.19
“I would renounce the so called Dharma of Kshatriyas ,
because is dharma in the cloak if injustice practiced by petty , cruel and miserly people of evil deeds.” 109.20
“Men conceive an evil idea in mind, do it with their body
and cover it up with lies spoken by the
toungue and thus any sin is three fold.”
109.21
“The earth , fame and renown get attracted only to a truthful man
and even those in heaven see only the truth that we posses.”
109.22
“The course which you thought as excellent and urged me
to perform with logical statements is not to be carried out by gentlemen.”
109.23
“After promising to my father(elder) that
I would live in the forest , if I follow the words of Bharatha , would I
not be disregarding the words of my elder.” 109.24
“In front of my
father I took a stable oath that
I would live in forest and the lady Kaikeyi was extremely pleased by
it.”
109.25
“I shall live in the forest purified, with regulated food , satisfying the manes and gods by
offering them flowers, fruits and roots , with my five sense controlled ,
without duplicity , with faith and differentiating between what ought to be
done and what should not be done.”
109.26-109.27
“Anyone who wants to do his duties should perform his religious and auspicious
duties for even Fire , wind and the moon
have taken that position.”
109.28
“After performing hundred
fire sacrifices, the king of devas
went to heaven, and by performing terrible penances the sages go to heaven.”
109.29
Again Rama , the son of the king who had great luster .
after he heard those atheistic arguments , being unable to
tolerate them told these disdainful
words.
109.30
“Sages say that truthfulness, dharma , valour ,
compassion to all beings , talking of only pleasing words and offering homage to Brahmins, devas and guests
are the real path to
heaven.” 109.31
“And because of that
those learned in Vedas , after clearly understanding the matters which
are to their advantage , adopt the fruitful path of Dharma which is right according to scriptures and seek attainment of high positions.”
109.32
“You are having materialistic opinions and so your mind is following the extremely atheistic
path and as such you are detached from the path of Dharma. I am blaming my
father who has taken a person like
you in his service.”
109.33
“Sometimes a very knowledgeable man behaves like a thief
and slowly reaches the state of atheism
and such ones are greatly distrusted by
people and so an intellectual should
never come in contact with an atheist.” 109.34
“Men preceding
you who are superior to you in
intelligence have performed many auspicious deeds .Brahmins only perform
religious acts for upliftment of
society.”
109.35
“Those good
people following the path of Dharma become greatly lustrous and take to
charity and do not indulge in violence
and become people without sins
and later become great
saints.” 109.36
Hearing those very
angry words of the great Rama with
fearless intellect , that Brahmin
replied using beneficial words filled
with faith in a diplomatic way. 109.37
“I never speak the words of atheists and nor am I an atheist even to an insignificant extent and according to the need of the time I speak
words of theism or atheism.” 109.38
“Since the time suited to request you to return , Oh Rama
, I spoke the words of atheism , only to
propitiate you and please you.”
109.39
This is the end of the hundred and ninth chapter Of the
book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
1110.Vasishta tells
about Genealogy of Rama’s clan
(Vasishta tells Rama about the history of his family from
Sun till Dasaratha.)
Observing that Rama was very angry sage Vasishta told him
,” Jabali also knows about , the coming
and going from this world to other world.”
110.1
“He told you all this
with a desire for you to return. Oh Lord of the earth, I would teach you
about the origin of the world.”
110.2
“In the beginning there was only water and later earth
was formed. There after Brahma who was
self born , along with other Gods came into existence.”
110.3
“Brahma assuming the form of a boar upheld the earth and created
the world along with his sons who were purified souls.”
110.4
“The eternal changeless
and imperishable Brahma came from
sky (space) and from him Marichi was born and Kashyapa was his son.”
110.5
“Kashyapa begot Vivaswath (Sun) and
Manu was born as the son of Vivaswath.
He was the lord of the people (prajapathi) and Ikshuvaku was his son.”
110.6
“Manu first gave
Ikshuvaku very prosperous land and
please know That Ikshuvaku was the first king of Ayodhya”
110.7
“The great Kukshi was the son of Ikshuvaku and thereafter the heroic Vikukshi was born
as son of Kukshi. “
110.8
“The greatly lustrous and famous Bali was born as son to
Vikukshi and the very strong mighty
armed Anaranya was born as son to Bali.”
110.9
“When Anaranya the best of the virtuous people was the
king of Ayodhya , there was no drought
or famine in the kingdom and there were
no thieves.”
110.10
“The mighty armed Pruthu was born to Anaranya , and the great king
Trishanku was born to him and due to his truthfulness , he went to heaven with
the physical body.” 110.11
“Dhundhumara was
the famous son of Trishanku and he was
the father of greatly lustrous
Yuvanaswa.”
110.12
“The great Mandhatha was the son of Yuvanaswa and mighty Susandhi was born as son to
Mandhatha and to Susandhi was born two sons Dhruvasandhi and
Presanajith and the very famous slayer
of enemies , Bharatha was born as son of Dhruvasandhi. “ 110.13-110.14
“The mighty armed Asitha was born to Bharatha against him rose the Haihayas , Talajanghas and the valorous Sasibindhu as enemies.”
110.15-110.16
“That king fought with all these enemies , was defeated
and got exiled . He retired to a delightful mountain and became a sage .”
110.17
“He had two wives and both got pregnant and one of them gave the other poison to her
co-wife to kill her unborn child.” 110.18
“At that time a sage by name Chyavana , the descendent of
Bhrugu had taken shelter in the
Himalaya mountains and Kalindi the wife
of Asitha , approached the sage , saluted him and asked for a boon , for birth
of a son from that Brahmin.”
110.19
“Oh queen , a great son , renowned all over the world , of virtuous by conduct, destroyer of enemies
and perpetuator of his race would be born to you.” 110.20
“The greatly delighted Kalindi , went round the sage took
leave of him and went home and she gave birth to a boy who had eyes like the petals of the
lotus and lustrous like Lord Brahma.” 110.21-110.22
“Her co-wife had given Kalindi poison so that this unborn child would
be killed but that child was born along
with the poison and so was named as Sagara.”
110.23
“King Sagara after
performing a sacrifice on full
moon day started digging the ocean which frightened people.”
110.24
“We hear that a son called Asamanja was born to
Sagara and he was one who indulged in
evil deeds and was banished by his father when he was still alive.” 110.25
“The valorous Amsuman was the son of Asamanja , Dilipa
was Amsuman’s son and Bhagiratha
was the son of Dilipa.” 110.26
“Kakustha was born
to Bhagiratha , from whom you have become famous as Kakusthas. Raghu was the
son of Kakustha , from whom all of you
became famous as Raghavas.” 110.27
“The lustrous son of Raghu became famous as
Purushadhaka, Kanmashapada and also as Soudhasa.”
110.28
“The famous son of Kanmashapada was Shankana and one facing him with his army was
destroyed.”
110.29
The son of Shankana was the
great Sudarshana who was the father of
Agnivarna. Shighraga was the son of Sudarshana and his son was Maru. Maru's son
was Prashushruva and to Prashushruva was born greatly lustrous Ambarisha. Nahusha
with matchless strength was the son of Ambarisha and his son was the great
follower of Dharma Nabhaga. Nabhaga had two sons, Aja and Suvrata and Aja's son
was the righteous king Dasaratha.
110.30-110.33
“Oh king, you are well known , far and wide as
Rama and you are the eldest son of the king and the inheritor of the kingdom and so accept the kingdom and look
after the people well.” 110.34
“In the clan of Ikshuvakus , always the eldest son always becomes the king
and when the eldest is alive ,
the younger ones are never
crowned as kings.”
110.35
“Oh famous one , it is not proper for you to change the
tradition of the house of Raghus
and so rule this great kingdom with lots of treasures just like
your father.”
110.36
This is the end of the hundred and tenth chapter Of the
book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
111.Rama agrees to become king after he comes back.
(Sage Vasishta , logically tells Rama that he would not be going against Dharma , if he
returns back but Rama tells him that his
father’s words were paramount to him. Bharatha further protests by doing
Sathyagraha. Rama tells him, he would become king after he comes back.)
Vasishta , the family priest of the kings , after
speaking to Rama like this again spoke
other words of Dharma to him. 111.1
“Oh Rama of the Kakustha clan, when a man is born he has
three teachers and they are his Guru, his father and his mother.” 111.2
“Oh best among men, the father is responsible for the
birth of the man and the Guru gives him wisdom and so he is superior.” 111.3
“Oh destroyer of enemies, I was the Guru to your father as well as you and so by
following my words , you would not be going against Dharma.”
111.4
“:All these people of
your assembly , those from business guilds and Brahmins are your people and by doing your duty to them,
you would not be going against Dharma.”
111.5
“It is not proper for you not to obey the words of your
old mother who is the follower of
Dharma and so you would not be acting against Dharma.” 111.6
“Oh valorous one in Dharma and truth, this Bharatha
is begging you and so if you agree to his request , you
would not be acting against Dharma.” 111.7
When these sweet words were told by the Guru, Rama himself replied to the Guru
who was sitting beside him.
111.8
“The duties that mother and father perform towards their
son is always to their best of ability
and aimed at pleasing the son , by making him sleep, covering and
clothing , by speaking affectionate words to him and also by bringing him up
properly and these acts of mother and father cannot be repaid.”
111.9-111.10
“My father Dasaratha begot me and the promise that I have done to him shall never
be made untrue.”
111.11
When the greatly philanthropic Bharatha was addressed
this way , with extremely distressed mind told the charioteer who was standing by his side.
111.12
“Oh charioteer immediately spread Kusa grass on this earth and I shall lie down on it till my esteemed brother shows his graciousness.” 111.13
“Like a Brahmin deprived of his wealth , without taking
any food and without seeing this world ,
I shall lie down in front of his hut till
he agrees with me.” 111.14
That greatly
troubled Bharatha seeing that Sumanthra
was waiting for the orders of Rama , himself brought the Kusa grass and spread
it on the ground.
111.15
The greatly lustrous Rama who was the greatest among
royal sages told Bharatha , “Oh
Bharatha , what wrong have I done to you
that makes you lie down before me and
prevent me.”
111.16
“Only a Brahmin can prevent the actions of another one by
lying down in front of him and law does not permit the person who can be anointed as king to prevent like this.”
111.17
“Get up oh tiger among men and give up this pitiable
penance and oh Bharatha quickly go to the
best of cities , Ayodhya.”
111.18
While being seated
Bharatha asked the citizens of
towns and villages who were assembled
there.”Why do you not persuade this gentleman?”
111.19
Those great people
who included the citizens of towns and villages told, “We know that son of
Kakustha clan and he is talking correctly. “
111.20
‘The great Rama is
firmly fixed in the words of his father
and that is why we are not able to quickly make him return.”
111.21
Hearing their very understanding words Rama told , “Please understand the words of
these friends who are seeing only
Dharma.”
111.22
“Oh mighty armed
Bharatha , after hearing both
our views think over it , get up and
drink water.”
111.23
Then Bharatha stood up , sipped water
and told the following words, “Oh ministers, oh tradesmen , please hear what I have to say.”
111.24
“Neither did I request the kingdom from my father nor
urged my mother. And I also did not know
about the exile of Rama , who is
the great follower of Dharma.”
111.25
“If it is our duty to live in the forest as per words of
my father , I would myself in the forest for fourteen years.”
111.26
The soul of Dharma was
greatly surprised to hear the genuine words of his brother and speaking
to the citizens of towns and villages.
111.27
“Neither for
Bharatha or me , it is possible to can cancel whatever my father bought or pledged or sold .”
111.28
“In the matter of living in the forest it is disgusting for keeping a substitute for
me , and it shall not be done. Kaikeyi has only spoken properly to my
father and a good deed was
done.” 111.29
“I know that Bharatha has a patient nature and honours his elders and for the truthful Bharatha everything
that happens will be auspicious.”
111.30
“When I come back
from the forest along with my brother who practices Dharma , I would become the
king of this earth.”
111.31
“The king was
requested by Kaikeyi and I have
followed those words and it is now your
duty to release our father from falsehood.” 111.32
This is the end of the hundred and eleventh chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
112. Rama refuses the kingdom and Bharatha requests for his sandals.
(The great sages advice Bharatha to go back. Rama
strictly refuses to become the king. Bharatha requests for sandals of Rama so
that he would consecrate them and rule as its representative. He tells
Rama that if Rama does not return after 14 years, then he would enter fire and die.)
Those great sages
who have assembled there seeing the meeting
between two brothers of matchless glory were amazed
and the hairs of their body stood erect.
112.1
Those many sages , Sidhas as well as divine sages who
remained invisible appreciated the two brothers of the clan of Kakustha.
112.2
“He indeed is blessed to have two sons like these who are
followers of Dharma and valorous in
Dharma and hearing their conversations , we have become
attached to them.” 112.3
Then those many sages
desiring for the quick destruction of
the ten headed ones, told Bharatha
, the best of kings the following words.
112.4
“You are of noble birth,
greatly intelligent , capable of
great penance , and so you should accept the advice of Rama and accept the words of your father.”
112.5
“We desire that Rama should be without the debt to his father , by discharging the obligation
of Dasaratha who has gone to
heaven.”
112.6
“After telling these words those Gandharwas and great sages , went back to their
respective abodes.”
112.7
Hearing those words which will lead to Happiness
that auspicious looking , auspiciousness Rama, with a delighted face paid homage to those saints.
112.8
That Bharatha with a trembling body and with hands folded in reverence , after
getting composure of their voice , addressed Rama and told these words.
112.9
“Oh son of Kakustha
clan, following the Dharma of kings , to perpetuate the Dharma of our clan, please
consider the request of mine as
well as my mother.”
112.10
“I would not be able to protect this kingdom all
alone and I would not be able to rule
the citizens of cities and
villages, making them happy.”
112.11
“Our clan members
, warriors as well as our friends and good hearted people are longing for you like the farmer longing
for rains.”
112.12
“Oh very wise one, after accepting this kingdom , give it
stability, for son of Kakustha clan , you are powerful enough
to rule this world.” 112.13
Saying this Bharatha
fell at the feet of Rama and that Bharatha who spoke sweet words entreated him ardently to accept his request. 112.14
Rama after hugging Bharatha , who was black in colour
and who has eyes like lotus petal , told him in a voice resembling the voice of a swan. 112.15
“Oh lad, due to the training received from our Guru, you
have obtained the knowledge of that and so you are
perfectly capable of ruling this
world.” 112.16
“Take the advice
of ministers, friends , especially intelligent ministers and you can
get done all endeavors, however tough it may be.”
112.17
“Splendour may go away from moon or snow may disappear
from Himalaya mountain or ocean may over step in to its shores, but I
shall not break the oath given to my father.” 112.18
“Oh lad whether your mother has done this out of avarice
or affection but it was done for your sake and so you should not take it seriously
and conduct yourself properly with your mother.” 112.19
Then having heard the words of the son of Kausalya ,
Bharatha who normally has a brilliance of the sun appeared like
the waxing moon on its first day
, spoke.
112.20
“Oh gentle one , keep your feet on this sandals decorated with gold , for they are
going to bring prosperity and safety of
the entire world.”
112.21
The tiger among men
with great luster , Rama , put on the sandals and then removed them and
gave it to the great Bharatha .
112.22
Bharatha bowed down to the sandals and addressing Rama told, “Oh destroyer of enemies, Oh valorous
one, Oh son of the Raghu clan , wearing matted locks and garments of bark and living on fruits and roots and residing outside the city, I would place the responsibility
of ruling the kingdom on these sandals and look forward for your arrival
anxiously.”
112.23-112.24
“Oh best among the clan of Raghu, on the completion of
fourteen years , suppose I do not see
you , then I will enter the blazing fire and die.”
112.25
After promising to Bharatha saying , “so be it,” and after earnestly hugging Bharatha and
Shatrugna , Rama spoke these words
. 112.26
“Oh best among Raghu clan, look after your mother Kaikeyi
and do not get angry with her and I am taking an oath on myself and Sita that I
would fulfill your words.” Saying this he took leave from his brothers with
tear filled eyes.
112.27-112.28
The famous Bharatha who was the follower of Dharma ,
after having worshipped those well decorated sandals and after going round Rama with reverence,
placed those sandals on the top of a very good elephant.
112.29
After that Rama , the enhancer of the fame of Raghu
dynasty, who was as firm as the Himalaya
mountain, greeted his teachers , ministers, subjects , his younger
brothers Bharatha and Shatrugna , according to their rank and took leave of them.
112.30
Due to great sorrow and due to their throats being choked
with tears, the mothers of Rama could not take leave from him but Rama after saluting all of them entered
in o his hut with eyes full of tears.
112.31
This is the end of the hundred and twelfth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
113.Bharatha reaches back Ayodhya with the sandal
(Bharatha returns to Ayodhya with the sandal. On the way
he meets sage Bharadwaja and takes his blessings.)
Thereafter Bharatha carrying those sandals on his head joyfully boarded the chariot
along with Shatrugna.
113.1
Vasishta, Vamadeva and Jabali who could do great
penance and other ministers well known
for their sagacious advice proceeded in
front of Bharatha.
113.2
Then all of them went round the great Chithrakuta mountain ad proceeded towards Mandakini river travelling
eastwards.
113.3
Seeing thousands of
pretty minerals , Bharatha travelled by its side along with his army. 113.4
Not very far away from Chithrakuta mountain, Bharatha saw
the hermitage where sage Bharadwaja lived.
113.5
Then that very intelligent Bharatha , after reaching the
hermitage of Bharadwaja , alighted from
the chariot and prostrated at the feet of the sage.
113.6
The very overjoyed Bharadwaja asked
Bharatha, “ oh lad, Have you accomplished the task? Have you met Rama?”
113.7
When he was liked by the very intelligent sage Bhardwaja
, Bharatha who loves Dharma replied to Bharadwaja.
113.8
“When requested by
me as well as his Guru Vasishta , that Rama with stable prowess being very pleased told sage Vasishta.”
113.9
“I will truly honour the promise given to my father and live in this forest for fourteen
years.” 113.10
“When he told like this to the
greatly intelligent and eloquent Vasishta, replied to Rama who was an expert orator using words of great
significance.”
113.11
“Oh very intelligent one , with pleasure give your sandals decorated by gold , for looking after the welfare of Ayodhya.”
113.12
“When Vasishta told him like this , Rama stood facing the
east , wore the sandals and removed it and gave it to me for the sake of the kingdom.” 113.13
“Taking leave of that great person called Rama, I am returning and going to Ayodhya, holding those
auspicious sandals.” 113.14
Having heard these auspicious words from Bharatha , that
great soul sage Bharadwaja replies with words which were more auspicious.
113.15
“Oh tiger among men, you are the best among those who possesses
great character and it is not surprising that noble qualities have established in you ,
like water poured out reaches the lower
level land.”
113.16
“The greatly valorous
Dasaratha has not died because he has son like you who loves Dharma and acts according to Dharma.”
113.17
Hearing the suitable
words spoken by that great saint
Bharadwaja, Bharatha saluted him with
folded hands and clasped his feet, took leave from him and commenced on his journey. 113.18
The great Bharatha
after going round the sage Bharadwaja , again and again , along with his ministers started towards Ayodhya.
113.19
The vast army of Bharatha
marched ahead of him along with chariots , carts, horses and elephants . again started towards Ayodhya.
113.20
Then they crossed the river Yamuna , which was wreathed
by waves and again beheld the auspicious
water of Ganga.
113.21
Bharatha along with his relations and army crossed the
river Ganga filled completely with clear
and pure water, , entered the
town of Sringaberipura and from
that city beheld the town of Ayodhya.
113.22
Then seeing the city of Ayodhya which was not having his
father or brothers , Bharatha was filled with grief and told his charioteer.
113.23
“Oh Charioteer see that ruined Ayodhya which is not
shining , is insignificant and is without joy
and is desolate and silent
.”
113.24
This is the end of the hundred and thirteenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
114.Bharatha returns to the desolate Ayodhya
(Bharatha sees that Ayodhya has lost its luster and was
like a city in distress.)
The great lord Bharatha
riding on a chariot which produced deep and gentle sound soon entered the city of Ayodhya.
114.1
He saw in that city
large number of cats and owls , with crouched men and elephants and looking like a dark night having
gloom and nort shining. 114.2
It looked like the darling wife of the enemy of moon god(Rohini) who is exceedingly bright
, which is affected by Rahu the planet in ascendant and was not having any shine and looking like night . 114.3
It further looked
like a stream flowing from the mountain,
emaciated, whose waters have become almost dry and greatly agitated , the birds
surrounding which are scorched by the
sun and whose big and small fish as well
as alligators have perished.
114.4
Ayodhya was like the sacrificial fire which rises in to a
golden smokeless flame when oblation is
poured in it but later gets put
out.
114.5
It was like an army in a great battle field where armour lie scattered
, with injured elephants and horses, with shattered chariots and flags and withy slain warriors. 114.6
It was like a sea which rose with foam and roaring sounds , dispersed by a gentle breeze becoming
silent .
114.7
It was like an sacrificial altar from where the priests , where the fire has
got extinguished after offering of oblations and the priests along
sacrificial implements have deserted and the chants have been discontinued.
114.8
It was like the wife of a bull longing for the bull which has left it and
standing in the middle of the cow-pen dispirited and not eating any grass.
114.9
It was like a pearl necklace , which was stripped of excellent rubies and gems, which were
shining and greatly smooth.
114.10
It was like a fallen star
with its great luster diminished
and fallen from its place , due to its
loss of meritorious deeds and reaching the earth.
114.11
It was a creeper of the forest fully laden with flowers and surrounded by bees making melodious noise at the end of autumn , when it was ravaged by
spreading forest fire and
completely withered
away.
114.12
With its shops and
markets closed and without any activity and with its merchants in daze,
Ayodhya looked like the clouds
obstructing the view of moon and
stars of the sky. 114.13
It was like a drinking place , not cleaned with broken
drinking glasses emptied of
excellent wine and with dead drunkards lying all around.
114.14
It was like a
cistern made for storing water , broken,
collapsed , fallen down and sunk , covered with broken jars and pots , with the
water completely dried up.
114.15
It was like a big
stretched bow string, with nooses at both ends , which was severed by a
powerful man with his arrows and lying on the ground.
114.16
It was like a mare whipped by a skilled horse rider
driven to battle but killed by the enemy
army and lying on the ground.
114.17
It was like a large body of water full of large fish and tortoises but dried up completely when its banks have
been cut down surrounded by dried water
lilies.
114.18
It was like the body of a man in distress , scorched because he has been denied application of oil , who was not wearing any ornaments and overtaken by sorrow.
114.19
It was like Sun
which has entered in to the
circular orb of thick and black clouds
during the rainy season and so obscured from vision.
114.20
Bharatha , the great son of Dasaratha seating in one of those excellent chariots
addressed the charioteer and told
.
114.21
“Why is it that now in Ayodhya , we do not hear the deep
and sonorous sound of singing and
playing of musical instruments nowadays
as earlier?”
114.22
“Why is it that the breeze does not carry the scent of
agaru, the fragrance of flower garlands and the intoxicating smell of
wine?”
114.23
“Why is it that after Rama has departed to the forest we
are not able to hear , the sound of excellent carriages, the pleasing sound of
neighing horses , trumpeting sound of elephants in rut and the big sound made by chariots?”
114.24
“Why is that affected by the going away of Rama, people
are not going out of town nor or the
wearing pretty garlands and not observing any festivals?”
114.25
“The luster of the city also has departed along with my
brother and Ayodhya is not shining now and is like a rainy night during days of
waning moon.”
114.26
“After Rama left Ayodhya , the youth are in great
distress and are not using perfumes of sandal and agaru or making use of flower garlands.”
114.27
“When will my brother return and when will the great
festival come , bringing great joy to Ayodhya like the rain the autumn?”
114.28
“Well dressed youth and people bearing themselves in high style , who used to roam about in groups are not to
be seen in the great avenues of Ayodhya?”
114.29
“Prattling like this in many ways Bharatha entered the house of his father and that house without the king was like a cave without a lion.”
114.30
Then the self possessed Bharatha seeing the private apartments of the king
without its usual splendour felt like the day has been deprived of the Sun and
shed tears.
114.31
This is the end of the hundred and fourteenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
115.Rama’s sandals are consecrated as king in Nandigrama.
(Bharatha leaves Ayodhya to Nandigrama and crowns
the sandals there and starts ruling the kingdom as its representative.)
After making his mothers go to their homes the very sad
Bharatha , who was stable in his
words told the elders.
115.1
“I am going to Nandigrama and so I am taking leave from all of you. I
hope to endure the sorrow caused by the absence of Rama there.”
115.2
“The king has gone to heaven and elder brother(teacher)
has gone to the forest. There I shall await the return of Rama , for Ayodhya
can only be ruled by him.”
115.3
Hearing these auspicious words of the
great Bharatha , All those ministers and their teacher Vasishta told him.
115.4
“Oh Bharatha , the words that you told now out of great
affection to your brother are
praiseworthy and could only be told by a great one like you.”
115.5
“You are greatly attached to your relations and
interested in the welfare of others .Who would not approve the noble path that you intend to follow?”
115.6
Hearing the please words
of his ministers which was according to his thought, Bharatha called the
charioteer and told him, “Harness the Chariot.”
115.7
The great Bharatha with a joyful face after paying
respects to his mothers ,
accompanied by Shatrugna , got in to the chariot.”
115.8
Speedily getting in to
the chariot, the very happy Bharatha
and Shatrugna proceeded to
Nandigrama surrounded by their ministers and priests.”
115.9
Along with their gurus, Vasishta and Brahmins they proceeded east wards towards Nandigrama .
115.10
After Bharatha left , the army consisting of elephants,
horses and chariots followed him without his calling them and so
too several people living in the town followed him.
115.11
That soul of Dharma , Bharatha who loved his brothers ,
while riding on the chariot kept the
sandals on his head and speedily travelled to Nandigrama.
115.12
Then that Bharatha entered Nandigrama quickly after alighting from the chariot and addressed his Gurus(elders) and told.
115.13
“My brother has deposited this kingdom for my upkeep and also has given his sandals decorated with
gold so that the kingdom would be
prosperous and secure.”
115.14
Then keeping the sandals which were given as trust to him
on his head , addressing his group of
ministers , with great sorrow.
115.15
“At once hold an umbrella over this
for they have been accepted as a
symbol by my exalted brother and they will establish Dharma in this kingdom.”
115.16
“My brother out of
his love for me has given this kingdom as a trust to me and I would look after them waiting for the arrival of Rama.”
115.17
“As Soon as I Rama comes back , I would unite these sandals
to his feet and see his feet along with
this sandals.”
115.18
“I will look after this burden entrusted to me till the
arrival of Rama who is my teacher , and then I would give it
back to him as an offering and would be doing his service,”
115.19
“ After giving
back , these auspicious trust of the
blessed sandals and the kingdom to Rama
I would get cleansed of my sins. “
115.20
“After Rama is
crowned and people became happy
and pleased , I would be four times happy than when I was ruling the
kingdom.”
115.21
The very famous Bharatha , thus lamenting in grief ,
ruled the kingdom from Nandigrama along with his ministers.
115.22
That Lord wearing matted locks and
dress made of bark looking like a
sage lived in Nandigrama along with his army.
115.23
That Bharatha who loved his brother lived there with anxiety to see his brother , obeyed
completely Rama ‘s advice and fulfilled
his vow, and lived in Nandigrama after consecrating the sandal.
115.24
Bharatha informed about all the orders relating to the
kingdom to the sandal , fanned them
himself and he himself held the royal
Umbrella over them.
115.25
That great and gentle Bharatha after consecrating the sandals , subordinated
himself to it and ruled the kingdom ,
115.26
Bharatha brought to the notice of the sandal however
small a matter to me and whenever he received costly gifts it was
given to the sandal and carried out his work appropriately. 115.27
This is the end of the hundred and fifteenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
116. The sages of Chithrakuta decide to leave Chithrakuta.
(When Rama sees the sages
of Chithrakuta worried, he asks the reason for it. They say they are
afraid that Khara, the brother of Ravana would trouble them. Then those sages
leave Chithrakuta foe a more safer place.)
After Bharatha went back , Rama continued to live in that
forest of penance and he observed the
anxiety and fearful anxiety among the sages. 116.1
He saw that those sages who used to be well pleased in the hermitage before , because they
depended on him, were now anxious.
116.2
Pointing out at
Rama by the movement of their eyes and eyebrows, they exhibited
their anxiety and they whispered round among themselves ,
some legends in secret. 116.3
Seeing their distress Rama , thinking that they had suspicion about himself, with joined
palms in salutation told the chief of the sages there.
116.4
“ I think that you are
all not seeing the behaviour in me that
you saw earlier and I feel that
you are agitated by some change in my nature.”
116.5
“Has the sages
seen my younger brother Lakshmana who
thinks about himself , by error behaved in a way that is unworthy of him?”
116.6
“Has Sita who is serving you , due to keenness of serving
me behaved in an improper way with you,
according to the conduct suitable for
women.”
116.7
Then the old sage , old both by penance and age
spoke with shivering voice to
Rama who is kind to all the beings.” 116.8
“Oh dear child, what is there for us to fear above all from Sita , who has auspicious
disposition and follower of Dharma.”
116.9
“Because of enmity to
you the Rakshasas have started
troubling the sages, due to which fear has been created among us and sages discuss among themselves about the ways of defense.” 116.10
“ Oh son, There is A Rakshasa called Khara who is the younger brother of Ravana
and he has uprooted the dwelling of several sages in Janasthana . He is cruel, eater of human
flesh , boaster, victorious in battle , haughty and sinful and he is not able to endure
you also.” 116.11-116.12
“From the time that you have come to reside
here in this hermitage those Rakshasas continue to ill treat the sages.”
116.13
“They appear to be cruel, grotesque
and fearful , and were ugly to look at
and not very pleasant to see.”
116.14
“They throw
inauspicious ugly objects on the
saints and those wicked people stand in
front of the sages and kill them.”
116.15
“Those evil minded ones
enter in to the hermitages
unnoticed and enjoy killing the
saints there itself .”
116.16
“When a fire sacrifice is being performed , they scatter the vessels used for sacrifice , pour
water on the fire and break the water
pots.”
116.17
“After deciding these retreats which are attacked by
those souls of evil are not safe , the sages are urging me to leave this
place and go elsewhere.” 116.18
“So Rama , before
those wicked ones cause bodily injury to the sages , we are
thinking of going away from here .”
116.19
“In a forest not far away from here which is blessed by many fruits and roots , is my previous
hermitage and all of us are thinking of going there.” 116.20
“Oh lad, it is likely that Khara also may badly and
unjustly behave with you and if you
think it better, please come along with us.”
116.21
“Though you are ever watchful and competent , since you
are living with your wife , it is possible that
your stay may become sad.”
116.22
When that sage told like this to Rama , he could not answer the sage properly as the sage was in a hurry to leave.
116.23
That leader of the sages after justifying his statement , took leave of Rama along with the sages and went away along with them.
116.24
When the sages left that place Rama accompanied them for
some distance, saluted the leader of the community and after bidding them farewell and after receiving their advice returned to his sacred hermitage .
116.25-116.26
That Lord Rama did
not leave his hermitage even for a
moment after it was deserted by the
sages , but many of those sages acquired many virtues from Rama , who followed excellent traditions. 116.27
This is the end of the hundred and sixteenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
117.Rama visits hermitage of sage Athri
(Rama along with Lakshmana and Sita leave Chithrakuta and on
their way, they visit the hermitage of
sage Athri. Sita meets with the sage
Anasuya, the wife of that sage, who
talks about the Dharma of a wife.)
After the sages left that place Rama started
thinking and due to very many
reasons he did not like to live at that place.
117.1
‘It is here that
Bharatha , my mothers and the citizens met me
and that memory is chasing me and filling me with grief.”
117.2
“Since the great Bharatha encamped with his army here , this place has been
made exceedingly dirty with dung of horses
and elephants.”
117.3
Having resolved that “We would go to some other place”,
Rama along with Lakshmana and Sita set
forth from there.
117.4
After the very famous Rama reached the hermitage of sage Athri , he prostrated
before the sage , who received him like
his son.
117.5
That sage after showing great hospitality on Rama in a fitting way , spoke with kind words to Lakshmana and Sita.
117.6
That follower of Dharma, who was wise , earnest and one who did good to all beings , called
out his aged wife , who had just come
there and who was revered by all and
spoke kind words to her. 117.7
That great sage
told his highly virtuous ascetic wife
Anasuya, who followed principles of
Dharma , “Please honour this Sita” and thereafter he told Rama
about that female ascetic. 117.8
“Oh blameless one , once this world was affected
by constant drought for ten
years. It was Anasuya who created roots and fruits as well us filled up river Ganga with water. She is the follower of great
penance and one decorated by self
imposed religious observances . For ten thousand years she practiced rigorous
penance and oh lad
, she removed all the obstacles and for
modifying the divine command converted
ten nights in to one and this
Anasuya who has just taken bath
after a penance is like mother to you.
(Mandavya cursed Sandili a friend of
Anasuya that she will become a widow , one morning within next ten days and
Sandili cursed that there would not be dawn anymore and when Gods approached Anasuya, she
converted those ten days in to one day
and saved everybody.)
117.9-117.12
“This aged
and famous lady is worthy of
worship of all beings and is well known
as “One who does not get jealous ” .Let Sita approach and talk to her .’ 117.13
Hearing the words of the sage , Rama said “So be it” and that lady who was a great follower of Dharma addressed Sita and told.
117.14
“Oh daughter of a
king, you have now heard the message of the sage and without delay meet that lady sage for the sake of your welfare.” 117.15
Hearing the words of Rama , which were aimed at her welfare , Sita approached
Anasuya , who was the wife of Athri and
an expert in Dharma , and went round her .
117.16
The great and
greatly virtuous Anasuya was feeble, full of wrinkles , with grey hair being very old , with body trembling always ,
and shaking like a banana plant in wind
and Sita went and without haste
saluted her and introduced herself by telling her name. 117.17-117.18
Sita saluted that blameless ascetic
and saluting het with folded hands
and with happiness enquired about her welfare .
117.19
That follower of Dharma seeing the glorious Sita who
followed Dharma , talking sweet and appeasing words told, “Fortunately you are
observing your Dharma.”
117.20
“Oh pretty Sita, Thank heaven, You are accompanying Rama
, who has left his relations, pride ,
wealth and being banished is living
in the forest.”
117.21
“Any lady who is devoted to her dear husband , whether he
is town or in forest, or whether he is a
sinner or one who does blessed deeds, she is the greatest gift to the
world.”
117.22
“For a lady of noble nature her husband is her god . whether he is of bad
character, passionate by nature or devoid of any riches.”
117.23
“Oh Sita, thinking about everything after performing
imperishable and suitable penances , I still do not see a better relation than
a husband.”
117.24
“Those evil women, who are overpowered by carnal desires and who lord over their husbands ., do not have
any understanding of virtue and
vice in this world.”
117.25
“Oh Maithili such
women who are in the grip of unworthy acts would reach infamy as well as
destruction of Dharma .”
117.26
“But those who are endowed with virtues like you and can
find the difference between good and bad , would go to heaven like those who
perform Dharmic deeds.”
117.27
This is the end of the hundred and seventeenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
118.Sita talks top Anasuya
and tells the account of her
Swayamvara.
(Sita tells Anasuya
that she is familiar of the Dharma of the wife. Anasuya presents
ornaments , cloths etc to Sita. He requests her to tell about her
Swayamvara. She tells a detailed
account.)
When Anasuya spoke like this ,, Sita without any jealousy
, started slowly telling her , words full of reverence .
118.1
“It is a wonder that a great lady like you should talk to me this way, for I also know that a husband is a Guru to
every lady.” 118.2
“”Oh lady , even if my husband leaves good conduct , even then , I should obey him
without any distinction.”
118.3
“What is the necessity to
applaud a husband , who is kind,
who has controlled his senses , always loving, soul of Dharma and one who
respects his father and mother?”
118.4
“The very strong Rama behaves with the other consorts of
the king in the same that he behaves
with his mother Kausalya.”
118.5
“That follower of Dharma who loved the king who is
valorous, honours all women his father has
glanced ones setting aside his mother.”
118.6
“ The wise instructions taught to me by mother in law, when I was coming this
fearful forest bereft of human beings is firmly etched in my mind.” 118.7
“The words taught to me earlier by my mother at the time of my
marriage in front of the sacrificial fire also is etched firmly in my
mind.” 118.8
“Oh lady who practices Dharma, your words reminded me
again the advices given by my mother and
mother in law that for a women the only
Dharma that exists is obedience to her husband.” 118.9
“Savithri went to heaven by doing service to her husband
and since following her path you are also doing service to your husband
you will also go to heaven.”
118.10
‘Rohini , the best among
all ladies and the goddess of the sky, is not seen without moon , even
for a second.”
118.11
“ Great ladies like these , who are doing firm penance on their husbands , by their own
blessed deeds are highly respected in
the world of gods.”
118.12
Then Anasuya glad at
hearing the words of Sita , kissed her on her forehead and said the following with a view to please
her.
118.13
“Oh Sita of pure
penances, by performing various austerities , I have obtained great power of
penance and using the strength
of the effect of such penances , I would
make you happy.”
118.14
“Oh Maithili , your words are befitting you and please my
mind and so you please tell me what I
can do for you?”
118.15
Hearing those words Sita was surprised and with a slow
smile she said , to her who has power of penance “done.(it is OK)”
118.16
When this was told to the lady who was in expert in
Dharma , she was greatly pleased and
told, “I would great joy to you , which would give good results.”
118.17
“Oh Vaidehi, Oh Sita, I am giving you the blessed garland, cloth, garland ,
fragrant creams and ointment for the body and these would always beautify your limbs
and they are convenient to use
and never fades.”
118.18-118.19
“Oh daughter of Janaka, Oh Sita , oh divine one , wear
this fragrant cream on your body like
Lakshmi who enhanced greatness of Vishnu
and enhance the greatness of your
husband .” 118.20
Maithili
accepted the cloth, fragrant creams , ointment as well as the garland , which were
incomparable gifts of love .
118.21
That famous Sita accepted those gifts of love , saluted
her, who was rich in penance , with
hands folded like a dish and sat beside
her.
118.22
When Sita sat near her , Anasuya who does firm penance started asking her , about a tale which was close to her heart.
118.23
“ Oh Sita, I have heard that the very famous Rama got you by Swayamvara(self selection) and that is the
story that reached my ears.”
118.24
“Oh Maithili , I would like to know this in detail. It
would be great , if you can tell this in extensive manner.”
118.25
When the follower of Dharma told like this , Sita said, “I will relate that story in detail and
let it be heard. “
118.26
“Janaka the follower of Dharma was the king of Mithila ,
well versed in king’s Dharma and engaged in ruling the earth properly.” 118.27
“When one day he was ploughing a circular land for
conducting a sacrifice , it seems I arose
there breaking the earth and became the daughter of the king.”
118.28
“The king Janaka who was busy scattering hand full of
seeds the seeds was surprised to see me
, completely covered with dust.”
118.29
“That childless king took me and kept me on his lap and telling that I am his daughter , showered
great affection on me since then.”
118.30
“A voice was heard from the space , “Oh king , without
any doubt , this divine child , is indeed your daughter .”
118.31
“Then my father the king of Mithila, who was a soul of
Dharma was very happy and that king acquired
large number of properties to me.,”
118.32
“That king of auspicious acts entrusted me to his chief
queen who was his favourite and looked
after me with great care with maternal
affection.”
118.33
“When my father realized that the proper time has come to
unite me with a husband , my father became sad , like a poor man who was about to lose his wealth.” 118.34
“Even though the
father of an unmarried girl is like
Indra , he will be treated inferior by other men and humiliated.”
118.35
“The king realizing that his humiliation would begin
soon, reached the sea of sorrow and felt like a man without a float and
unable to reach the other shore.”
118.36
“Knowing that I was not born from a women’s womb , in
spite of thinking over he could not find a similar and suitable husband for me
.”
118.37
“By always thinking about this , a thought occurred in
his brain to perform Swayamvara(Self
choice) ceremony for his daughter.”
118.38
“The great Varuna during one of the sacrifices had given
him with love an excellent bow, two great arrows and a quiver.”
118.39
“Due to its weight no human being could lift it in spite
of great effort nor the kings able to
bend it even in their dreams.”
118.40
“My father who was only speaking truth , had earlier
invited several kings in his assembly
and placed the great bow before them.”
118.41
“And he told them, “ Without any doubt , my daughter would become the wife of any
person who can lift this bow along with its string .”
118.42
“ The kings saw
that great bow which was very heavy like a mountain and were not able to lift it and so they
saluted the bow and went back. “
118.43
“After a very long time Rama with great luster , came to
see the fire sacrifice along with Viswamithra
and Rama along with Lakshmana were
truly men of valour.”
118.44
“ The sage Viswamithra the soul of dharma after being
worshipped by my father , spoke about
Rama and Lakshmana to my father.”
118.45
“These two sons of Dasaratha are desirous of seeing the bow and so show the bow obtained
from devas to the king ‘s son Rama.
“
118.46
“As soon this was told by the Brahmin , that bow was
brought out and within a minute the very
strong one bent that bow and instantly
stretched the string and drew it.” 118.47-118.48
“When he was
stretching it , the bow broke in to two
and making a very great sound fell down on the floor.” 118.49
“Then my father who was wedded to truth , having decided
to give me to Rama , raised the vessel
containing pure water.”
118.50
“Though I was being offered , Rama did not accept that
offer , without knowing the opinion of his father who was the king of
Ayodhya.”
118.51
“Then my father invited
my father in law , the very aged Dasaratha and I was offered to Rama who
was well known for his intelligence
.”
118.52
“My father also offered of his own accord my chaste younger sister Urmila , who has
pleasing appearance as wife to Lakshmana.”
118.53
“This is the way in which I was offered to Rama in the
Swayamvara and I love my husband the valiant Rama in accordance with Dharma.” 118.54
This is the end of the hundred and eighteenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
119.Rama takes
leave of sage Athri and proceeds further
(After Sita tells Rama all that Anasuya asked and showed
him all that she gave , they take leave of the sage and go deep in to the
forest.)
Anasuya the follower of Dharma after hearing that great
story , hugged Sita and kissed her , on her
head.
119.1
“You have with clear words drawn a sweet picture
about what happened during the Swayamvara and I now clearly know what happened and I
firmly enjoyed , Oh sweet speaking Sita.” 119.2
“The sun is drawing the peaceful night near him and is setting and the
twittering of birds which were wandering everywhere in search of
food during the day time and after seeing the twilight are returning for sleep and rest , is heard.”
119.3-119.4
“These sages who
are wet with bating are returning with
the water filled water pot and
completely wet cloths made of
bark.”
119.5
“The sages have lit the fire for doing worship of the fire as per
rules and the wafting smoke of the
colour of the pigeon is being seen.”
119.6
“In spite of having sparse leaves , the trees appear
dense and the four directions , which
draw our senses apart do not shine
brilliantly.”
119.7
“The nocturnal animals have started moving about and the domestic animals of the hermitage
have started sleeping around the altar.”
119.8
“Oh Sita , the night
decorated by the orbit of stars
has commenced and the moon appears to
rise spreading the mantle of moon light .”
119.9
“I am giving consent for you to go now to Rama. Go and be
companion to Rama And I would like to tell
that I am greatly pleased with your sweet story telling.”
119.10
“Oh Maithili, decorate yourself in my presence and cause me happiness by decorating yourself with these divine
ornaments.”
119.11
Then Sita decorated herself with those ornaments and
looked like the daughter of devas and
saluted Anasuya with bent head and went
to meet Rama.
119.12
The most eloquent Rama
after seeing Sita well ornamented was greatly pleased with the loving presents
given by that lady saint.
119.13
Sita the princess of Mithila related everything to Rama and showed
him the cloths, jewels and garlands so
lovingly given to her.
119.14
Both Rama and the
great charioteer Lakshmana were extremely pleased seeing the honour done to Sita which was very
rare among human beings.
119.15
Thereafter the descendent of Raghu
who had a face like moon , having been extended a great hospitality by
those great sages, , passed the
auspicious night happily. 119.16
When the night came to an end Rama and Lakshmana took
bath and performed sacred offerings to
the fire and after worshipping
the forest took leave of those
sages.
119.17
Those sages who live in the forest and who follow
Dharma told them that the forest was overwhelmed by movement of
Rakshasas. 119.18
“Oh Rama , in this great forest
flesh eating Rakshasas of
different forms and blood drinking wild
animals reside.” 119.19
“Oh Rama in this great forest, they eat away impure or
not vigilant sages and please prevent them.”
119.20
“There is a path in the forest through which sages
collect food and fruits and through this path you can cross this impassable
forest easily.”
119.21
Then those sages saluted Rama and they blessed the slayer of enemies Rama, for a safe
journey and after that Rama entered the forest like a sun entering the cloud along with his wife and Lakshmana.
119.22
This is the end of the hundred and nineteenth chapter
Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the
first epic.
End of Ayodhya
Kanda
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