(1) Sri Rama extols Hanuman
(2) Sugriva’s language
(3) Sri Rama interrogates Hanuman about Sri Lanka
(4) Onward to Lanka
(5) Sri Rama’s intone
(6) Ravana’s direction
(7) Ravana asked to shed gloom
(8) Vaunting vows
(9) Vibhishana’s words of wisdom
(10) Vibhishana’s caveat
(11) Emaciated, undermined, Ravana summons his counselors
(12) Ravana acquaints
(13) Punjikasthala and the curse
(14) Apprehensive Vibhishana persists
(15) Indrajit’s braggadocio and prudent Vibhishana
(16) Ravana rebukes Vibhishana
(17) Vibhishana seeks Sri Rama
(18) Sri Rama’s communiqué
(19) Vibhishana’s information
(20) Sardula and Sukha
(21) Sri Rama indignant, ocean in peril
(22) Ocean responds
(23) Evil portents
(24) Vanara army in battle array; Suka released
(25) The infiltrators
(26) Ravana inquires Sarana makes known
(27) The individual heroism of the vanara chiefs, Sarana’s version
(28) Sukha on the persons in command
(29) Sardula and others as moles
(30) Sardula’s evaluation
(31) Desperate Ogre Monarch attempts sorcery
(32) Sita’s wail
(33) Sarama’s assurance
(34) Sarama’s expression
(35) Malyavan’s exhortation
(36) Ravana furious
(37) Deliberations and preparations
(38) Suvela Mountain ascended
(39) Scenic Lanka
(40) Impetuous Sugriva attacks Ogre Lord
(41) Sugriva chided; Angada the envoy
(42) The incursion
(43) Duels between the ogres and the monkeys
(44) Nocturnal fight
(45) Monkeys downcast
(46) Indrajit’s (ostensible) accomplishment
(47) Maithili queen taken to the battle field
(48) Sita’s feelings
(49) Sri Rama’s wail
(50) Garuda (King of winged creatures)
(51) Depressed Ravana dispatches Dhumraksha
(52) Dhumraksha annihilated
(53) Livid Ravana to Vajradamstra
(54) Vajradamstra annihilated by Angada
(55) Ravana talks to his commander-in-chief
(56) Akampana destroyed by Hanuman
(57) Anxious Ravana to Prahasta
(58) Prahasta killed by Nila
(59) Despondent Ravana leads the army to the combat
(60) Melancholic Ravana orders the ogres to awaken Kumbhakarna
(61) Vibhishana tells Sri Rama on Kumbhakarna
(62) Kumbhakarna appraised of the danger from Sri Rama and his simian hosts
(63) Kumbhakarna’s derision
(64) Hedonistic theory of Mahodara
(65) Mahodara ticked off
(66) Energetic Kumbhakarna sets out to rescue the besieged troops
(67) Kumbhakarna’s run into with Sri Rama and his demise:
(68) Kumbhakarna’s collapse; Ravana’s howling
(69) Ravana’s sons and brothers proceed to the battle arena; Narantaka dies
(70) Death of Devantaka, Trisiras, Mahodara and Mahaparswa
(71) Athikaya killed in a fierce encounter with Lakshmana
(72) Ravana nervous apprehensive
(73) Indrajit’s words of comfort and gallantry
(74) Hummock clad with extraterrestrial herbs
(75) The terrible conflict
(76) Ogres Kamapana, Prajanga Sonitaksha, Yupaksha and Kumbha killed
(77) Hanuman Kills Nikumbha
(78) Makaraksha sets out
(79) Sri Rama Kills Makarsha
(80) Commanded by Ravana; Indrajit takes the field
(81) Indrajit slays an image of Sita
(82) Indrajit proceeds to Nikumbhila
(83) Sri Rama dismayed; Lakshmana’s contrary outlook
(84) Vibhishana assures Sita’s security
(85) Vibhishana insists Lakshmana arrives at Nikumbhila
(86) Hanuman’s mayhem; dares Indrajit
(87) Vibhishana replies to Indrajit’s taunts
(88) Indrajit ridicules Lakshmana
(89) Vibhishana directions to vanara commanders
(90) In the furious encounter Lakshmana slays Indrajit
(91) Sri Rama thrilled to hear Indrajit’s demise
(92) Anguished Ravana determined to kill Sita
(93) Sri Rama destroys ogre troops
(94) Ogresses bewail
(95) Ravana ventures to the arena
(96) Sugriva makes short work of Virupaksha
(97) Mahodara dies in the encounter with Sugriva
(98) Angada exterminates Mahaparswa
(99) Ravana takes the field
(100) Lakshmana swoons; Ravana fidgety
(101) Lakshmana convalesces
(102) Sri Rama renews his combat; seated in Indras’s chariot
(103) Ravana reprimanded
(104) Charioteer chided
(105) Adityahrdaya; Glory to the Sun
(106) Sri Rama requests Matali to be on lookout
(107) The violent encounter
(108) Sri Rama kills Ravana
(109) Vibhishana’s bewail
(110) The lament of the consorts
(111) Mandodari’s lament: (Perpetrator of sinful deeds reaps misery)
(112) Sanctification of Vibhishana
(113) Sita’s message
(114) The keenly anticipated reunion
(115) Sita renounced
(116) Sita’s ordeal by fire
(117) Brahma eulogizes Sri Rama
(118) God of Fire restores Sita to her Lord
(119) Emperor Dasaratha in ethereal form
(120) Indra’s benevolence
(121) Sri Rama prepares to leave for Ayodhya
(122) The leave-taking
(123) The homecoming
(124) At the abode of Sage Bharadwaja
(125) Hanuman as Sri Rama’s emissary
(126) Hanuman recounts
(127) Preparations in Ayodhya for the welcome of Sri Rama
(128) Sri Rama’s consecration
(This kandam is war kanda and is also referred to as Lanka Kanda)
Sri Rama extols Hanuman:
Hanuman’s extraordinary narrative thrilled Sri Rama, he made this gracious declaration, “Hanuman has achieved an impressive task, he has rendered a good service to his king, he has saved from ruin and disgrace Raghu’s race, Lakshmana and me. He had conscientiously planned and located my lady; none can cross the expansive sea, penetrate deep into kingdom of Ravana and return safe and sound; a task capable of only by Vayu, (the Wind God), Garuda (the king of the birds), and Hanuman. Hanuman was entrusted by his master a duty difficult to perform; extra work was done by Hanuman without discredit either to himself or to his lord Sugriva. I am wretched; I cannot do a kindly act worthy of Hanuman who has communicated this delightful news to me, all that I can call my own at this moment is this embrace, which I unreservedly offer to Hanuman. The search for Sita has been conducted scrupulously; the thought of crossing the vast expanse of water and to reach the giant’s domicile makes me dejected again.”
Sugriva’s language:
Sugriva to assuage Sri Rama spoke thus, ‘O highly astute prince, we have traced your queen, we now know the abode of the Rakshasa, now the task ahead is to construct the bridge athwart the sea to reach the city of our foe. Let the mind not be mystified through grief, for grief and sad surmise takes away the heroism of a man and ruin the righteous activity; the moment we tread onto the island; believe your foe to be dead, for the leaders of the monkey troops are dauntless and dominant. Therefore be done with a timorous mind, heroism alone is a worthy option, have recourse to courage, despair for something lost or wholly devastated defeats all the pursuits even of high souled personages like you. The moment the bridge is built up to the vicinity of Lanka, my army comprising the monkeys who are capable of taking up any form at will, will come out triumphant and you shall glimpse Sita very soon. None in the three worlds can challenge you in the field of battle, now you summon your anger and dismiss your misery, trust the mighty vanaras for your success, you will make the robber fiend pay and you will have your loving arms around Sita for I perceive good premonitions and my mind is elated.’
Sri Rama interrogates Hanuman about Sri Lanka:
The scion of Kakutsa heeding to the prudent rede of Sugriva, now sought answers from Hanuman, “O Vayuputra, I am in more ways than one skilled crossing this sea either by virtue of my asceticism or by throwing a bridge across the deep that separates the mainland and the island or by drying up the sea by us of my mystic missiles; I want to find out from you about Lanka’s hedged towers, fort, moat, ports, the abodes where the giants dwell and all.” Forthwith came the reply from the eloquent Hanuman, ‘The prosperous city of Lanka is extensive, is blissful, is crammed with chariots, thronged by numerous elephants, is inhabited by multitudes of ogres devoted to their king, they defend the city in accordance with the technique of fortification. The four massive, at all times well guarded gates bar all entrances to the city, the numerous guards are armed with lethal engines to hurl arrows, rocks, to check and repulse the hostile army at the very gates. Maces with iron heads that can kill several hundred defiant foes are kept in readiness at the gates. The golden ramparts to the city are strong, high and wide, and are inlaid with corals, gems and pearls; the large and deep moats are infested with darting and soaring ravenous monsters. The bellicose self-possessed Ravana himself remains active and alert in reviewing his forces. Lanka has four-fold security comprising (1) a river which encircles the city on all sides, (2) the Trikuta mountain on which the city stands, (3) a belt of forests and (4) an artificial fortification in the form of enclosing wall and moats and as such offers no pedestal for invasion; inspires terror in the invader and is difficult of access even for the gods. My fury hurled the ramparts down, leveled the moats that gird the town, I overturned the portals the piers, burned and spoiled the stately Lanka. Let us the vanaras cross the sea, and then be sure that the army of the foe is doomed to swift overthrow. We have in our midst the brave Angada and Mainda, the fierce and famed Panasa and Mainda, the skillful Nila, the mighty Nala the strong and wise Jambavan. O scion of Raghu command without delay the aforesaid generals, after reaching the famed city of Ravana you will see the demolition of Lanka and we will bring back the Maithili queen. If this course of action does not find your support and you would like to take the whole army across the deep, order them all to assemble and be ready to march at an encouraging time’
Onward to Lanka:
Spontaneously Sri Rama decreed, “O Sugriva, it is noon time now, this hour is known by the name Abhijit, it brings victory to the vanara host, soon you shall see my vengeful arms destroy the city of the fiend. All the happy omens portend glory to our endeavor and assured death to the (robber) demon king; my consort shall be free again.” Sri Rama continued, “O my generalissimo, Nila accompanied by one hundred thousand agile monkeys scan the pathway for the host, guard each brook, each glen, each grove before they are marred by hostile troops in ambuscade. Let our troops comprise only the ferocious and the terrifying amongst the vanaras, our task is convoluted, hence the weaklings may stay behind in the Kishkinda. Let the huge sturdy hill like Gaja, the mighty bull like Gavaya, the fearless Gavaksha lead the group, the unrivaled Rishabha guard our right flank, and the unconquerable Gandamadhana defend our left side. Mounted on the shoulders of stout Hanuman I will be in the centre cheering and guiding the hosts, fierce Lakshmana who vies with the lord of death Yama, will march on the back of Angada, let the mighty armed revered by the bears Jambavan, the bold, and the impetuous Susena, sharp sighted Vegadersi secure the rear.” Heeding Sugriva’s command countless exuberant agile vanaras emerged forth from the caverns, from the bosky dells, from the crests, and from the mountain tops, itching for the fight, all of them let go the war cry and followed Sri Rama in his southward march. En-route the hosts’ wild in jollity fed on the honeycomb and fruits from the trees in blossom, they rang out the battle cry in the presence of Sri Rama, ‘King Ravana and the fiends must be killed by us.’ Conscious of their strength, they hastily marched forward, soon they sighted the gracious Sahya mountain range; they gazed at the fair dazzling, blooming lotus filled pools and lagoons in the vicinity. Avoiding the precincts of the city and the rural areas, the vanaras mindful of their might, yet scary of Sri Rama’s wrath, urged by their chieftains to double speed, they surged ahead, with eagerness and arrogance, the hosts resembling an awfully dreadful roaring ocean exhibiting joy, skill, haughtiness and gestures indicating success. The beaming Lakshmana spoke with passion to Sri Rama, “O scion of Raghu I see good premonition all around which presage the success of your purpose and the annihilation of the ogres, soon after killing the sinful Ravana you will regain your queen; you will return to Ayodhya in happiness and in towering reputation.” As the dense vanara squadron sped, the grime kicked from their hurrying feet formed a thick continuous cloud intercepting the sunlight. In the first instance having gone past the Sahya Mountains, the great Malaya Mountains and the Mahendra peaks, Dasratha’s sons and the vanara legions sought the incomparable woodlands. The woodland was visited on all sides by bears, hyenas, lions, tigers and wild elephants inspiring dread and terror. The trees in the woodlands were violently shaken by the fury of the winds generated by the swift march of the monkeys; all the trees were set in commotion by the monkeys who were pleased at the verdant sight and fragrance. The reservoirs of water on those mountains looked charming with aquatic flowers of various hues and melodious song of the flock of birds that sang various tunes. The monkeys bathed in the waters, sported by plunging one another in the lakes, broke down the branches of the trees rich in fruits tasting like nectar, and fragrant flowers, and hanging honey-combs. Duly reaching the peak of the Mahendra Mountains that lay on the fringes of the ocean, they beheld the mounting, swelling, ballooning ocean. Soon they sought the woodland neighboring the sea, Sri Rama spoke, “My lord Sugriva we have reached the abode of Varuna (sea), to cross the outstretched broad deep is a worrisome problem ahead, let us halt here and plan best, to cross the ocean and storm the isle of the ogres.” The army encamped in three divisions, viz. (1) bears (2) long tailed monkeys and (3) monkeys, rejoiced the break, relaxed, and they saw the sea infested with fierce aquatic creatures as well as the riotous roar of the rolling waves.
Sri Rama’s intone:
The vanara army sited itself on the coast, under the care of Nila and the sentinel of Mainda and Dwivida. Distressed Sri Rama spoke to Lakshmana, “As the time passes it is believed grief disappears; alas my grief grows fiercer by the day for the reason the time allowed for the survival of my queen is actually passing away, my body is consumed by the feral thoughts, by the inferno of love fuelled by the paroxysm of separation from her. After I have scrupulously conquered my foeman, when my shafts dig deep into the breasts of Ravana it is then that I cast away my mental woe and dispel the grief of my darling. I shall meet the bloom of my dear queen’s face; the gaze on her enraptured eyes is the balm that will banish my pain. Alas for now my virtuous darling lies forlorn in the Rakshasa land, with no help on hand but soon, very soon she will regain all her glory, and the night rovers will ascend the abode of the realm of Yama.
Ravana’s direction:
When the ogre king surveyed his wrecked glorious town, the awful signs of the Vayuputra’s victory; heaped on him anger and shame. He now spoke to his lords, ‘the fierce vanara eluded our alert sentry, he has seen the incarcerated queen, in his hate he has killed the brave members of my aristocracy, and he has left the city irate and gloomy. Now deliberate and advise on the work that lies ahead for us, examine the hazards, devise a mature plan of action. In the days of the yore the lore is, when faced with impending woe, the king seeks the guidance of his friends; his ever faithful kinfolk; and of those whose hopes are bound with his; the endeavour thus commenced with faith on the divine intervention triumphs. Not spoken favourably is the venture of the king who strategises alone, relies for success on his own might without evaluating the consequences of his actions. That undertaking of a king is doomed, who is hasty, who does not consider options at his disposal nor consequences of his impetuosity, destiny defying actions dictated by speed and based solely on the considerations of his valor. I seek here from the learned counselors to declare a course of action, where the conclusions are arrived at unanimously and the actions are in consonance with the scriptures. I do not prefer to have the decision arrived at when unanimity is arrived at after examining several viewpoints, for such decisions are considered mediocre. Nor do I want a decision wherein debates are marred by taunts; by insults, the conclusion reached somehow, after extensive speeches and counter speeches. Vengeful Sri Rama has commenced his work of invasions with his allies and soon his armies will cross the sea; so you my lords tender to me the advice that is good for the city and the army.’
Ravana asked to shed gloom:
After Ravana finished his homily, the ogres only known for their might sans astuteness in one accord made their answer to their lord; ‘There exists at your disposal a mighty army equipped with mace and machete; double edged swords, spears and darts, awaiting your signal to advance. O mighty armed one! In the past after storming Bhogavathi you slew the serpent-gods, after scaling Mount Kailasa you overthrew Kubera; you forced into submission his numerous Yaksha troops, and brought with you Pushpak, the flying car. Fascinated by your prowess; the Lord of Danavas, offered his daughter Mandodari, in matrimony to you. After descending into the penultimate subterranean regions (Rasatala) you subdued and vanquished the serpent demons, Vasuki, Taksaka, Sankha and Jati and forced them into submission. O mighty tamer of the foes, the Danavas who were beyond destruction, who were armed with boons of immortality; in vain they tried their conjuring trick on you, in vain they struggled for a year resisting your peerless might eventually they acknowledged your might. O highly blessed lord of the ogres, king Varuna’s sons armed with chariots, elephants, horses and foot soldiers could offer resistance to you only for a while before they were conquered. The God of Death’s (Yama) wrath held no terror for you, in a face to face encounter with him you emerged a glorious victor. All these people dread you O king you are held in awe by them; they praise you. The numerous Kshatriya warriors equal in might to Indra, were subjugated into submission by you, Raghus’s sons cannot survive you in the field of battle. Stay put in your royal home, you need have no toils of the battle, let this easy fight be undertaken by your unrivaled son Indrajit, if Indrajit is assigned the task by you, all your foemen will be slain.’
Vaunting vows:
The valiant commander-in-chief who resembled a dark cloud, known by the name Prahasta with folded hands said, ‘Gandharvas, the Gods, sons of Danu known as Danavas, the fiends, the serpents, the birds were overpowered by your might, two mortals cannot oppose you. Hanuman hoodwinked us when we were off guard, he could not have fled alive had he fought with me. O king you command me I will defend you against all disaster born of your crime, I shall protect your against the monkey race.’ Enraged ogre Durmukha proposed, ‘this outrage, this assault by the monkey is an insult to the city, to the royal gynaeceum, to the glorious ruler of the ogres. I shall repulse the monkeys even if they have taken refuge in the heavens, in the penultimate subterranean region, in the depths of the earth or the sea.’ Incensed, impetuous, strong, fiend Vajradamstra suggested, ‘O king listen to me, why waste our thoughts on Hanuman, when Sri Rama, brother Lakshmana and Sugriva remain un-eliminated. I have a plan to swiftly rid you of your enemies; I propose to lead an army of ogres disguised as young-looking men, I will tell Sri Rama that we are dispatched by Bharata to assist him. If Raghu’s sons fall into the trap, our legions will bludgeon the entangled vanara hosts with mace, spike, spear, and shower stones till they all are slain. This is the outcome and the brothers pay with their lives.’ Nikumbha the heroic and powerful son of Kumbakarna spoke as follows, ‘Single handed I shall kill Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva, Hanuman and the vanara hosts; the rest of you linger here in the company of our mighty ruler.’ A rakshasa named Vajrahanu said to the king, ‘rid yourself of all anxiety, relax here, alone I shall kill Sugriva, Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Hanuman I shall devour the vanara hosts.’
Vibhishana’s words of wisdom:
(Life needs must be protected by living beings according to their might…. No gain accrues if anything is done which has strife for its object slokas 14 &15). Several ogre warriors, including the robust eldest son of Ravana; Indrajit sprang forward with their respective mace, axe, spear, swords, in hand and spoke thus to their lord, ‘today we will dispose of Sri Rama and Lakshmana, we will slay Sugriva and the vanara hosts, we will strike the wretched Hanuman who desecrated our glorious town.’ Sage Vibhishana attempted to calm the vehemence of the Rakshasa chieftains; he thus began his address, ‘Dear brother deeds of heroism succeed, only against those who are motiveless, or who have already been attacked by another enemy or those who stand doomed by adverse fate. Sri Rama is capable of taming his foes, he is ever vigilant, he has always achieved what he has conceived, and even the exploits of Hanuman are due to Sri Rama’s grace. O rakshasa lord, never despise Sri Rama’s supremacy, Sri Rama has done no evil to you, why then did you steal his spouse and guard her in your bastion. Foolish Khara was made short work of Sri Rama in an encounter, because Khara had for his part gone beyond his limits and attacked Sri Rama in Sri Rama’s own hermitage. O lord be wise, Maithili queen is a threat to your monarchy, there is still time, restore her to her Lord, before archenemy ruins Lanka with his showers of arrows. It is not desirable in the least to have enmity with that powerful prince who follows a virtuous path. Bound by brotherly ties I ever seek your good, I beseech you to restore captive Sita to her Lord, cast away this blind fury, seek the path of duty, spare the city, spare the lives of our friends, our sons, our wives. Pray accept or reject this advice and hope for success; or dread the dire effect of your folly.’ Thus concluded Vibhishana and the Rakshasa king without any answer closed the assembly and retired for repose to his chambers.
Concerned Vibhishana’s caveat:
The following daybreak Vibhishana whose thoughts were engrossed in righteous path sought the palace of Ravana. Inside the glittering noisy palace reverberated the sounds of shell, drum, auspicious voices sung by scholars in the praise and triumph of the king. While the ogre king was being glorified, Vibhishana entered the palace hall offered his salutations to the king took the seat that was in proximity to the king, an immediacy that assured none could hear his talk with the king. He began, his judicious speech aimed at Ravana’s welfare, ‘Hear me O brother, ever since, Janaka’s daughter is held captive in your citadel, our souls are distressed, and we are saddened by catastrophic omens every day. Only atonement is a sure cure from the evils, one that may save our prosperity, and that is the restoration of the Maithili queen to her Lord and this action is desirable my lord. All your counselors have refrained from tendering this advice to you fearing your wrath, the felony in the form of Sita’s abduction is recognized by all of us here, even if this submission of mine is prompted by my obsession or self-indulgence you should not fault me.’ The rakshasa monarch heard the submission of his younger brother that which was wholesome, full of immense consequence, gentle, logical, and capable of doing good in the past, present and in the future. Passionate Ravana in fury chided his brother, ‘brother I can see no danger, I will not release Sri Rama’s dame, in fight Sri Rama will yield to my superior might, even if Sri Rama is assisted by all the celestials’ sternly saying so he sent away his brother from the hall.
Emaciated, undermined, Ravana summons his counselors:
Ravana grew emaciated through disrespect shown to him by his near and dear ones, his infatuation with Sita, his seditious haughtiness, he repelled the wise counsel of Vibhishana and other well-wishers, his proclivities only made him blind to dangers and he was inclined to passion and war. He mounted his glittering chariot and accompanied by his pompous retinue he rode to the glamorous council hall where after a ceremonial welcome he took his royal seat. He subsequently commanded the heralds to beckon all his commanders to the council hall, all of them implicitly obeyed the directive and soon filled the hall, took their seats in the order of their ranks. Sage Vibhishana too joined the congregation, after his due obeisance to his brother, he took his seat, likewise Sukha and Prahasta too joined the gathering.
Ravana acquaints:
With fiend king Ravana’s eyes on the gathering, he addressed the fierce Prahasta, his commander in chief, ‘you perform your part, array the warriors on elephants, chariots, infantry and cavalry, to guard our citadels and the island,’ the generalissimo returned to the hall after suitable compliance and made this submission, ‘army has been suitably deployed to guard the realm, my lord you pursue your endeavors without apprehension.’ The fiend monarch Ravana now in the midst of his kith and kin, the ogre king who accomplished his own gratifications, started to speak again, ‘you should know your duty, when you are in the midst of simplicity, ecstasy, compassion, toil, success; and when virtue, pleasure and self-interest are at stake. It is all too well known that the Maruts, the moon and the planets bring glory to Indra, I wish to excessively enjoy the royal fortunes, all my actions that gave me endless joy and fame have been successful, as all of you know well, that my accomplishments have always been executed after deliberations. Now that Kumbakarna has broken his deep repose, for my part I will acquaint you; I had taken into custody, Sri Rama’s spouse, Sita, a princess of Vidhehan territory, from the distant Janasthana, a region frequented by ogres. The lady Sita, Sri Rama’s heart-throb, is immaculate in appearance her beauty takes my spirit and stirs my passion; she with contempt rejects my every prayer. I am no longer myself, I have become a slave of my infatuation, and I have been demoralized by affection for her. She expects to meet her husband Sri Rama, and sought from me one year’s time which I granted, despite my confused optimism and hopeless wishes. (Ravana here utters a conceited lie, in order to vaunt his deceptive generosity. The time limit of one year was fixed by Ravana of his own accord, Sita for her part consistently spurned Ravana’s depraved offer) While Sri. Rama, his brother Lakshmana together with the army of monkeys and bears are reported to be on their way to Lanka, how shall they cross the sea infested with numerous ravaging aquatic creatures? Though we need no fear from the two men seeking vengeance, yet we witnessed the mayhem caused by a single vanara. Having discovered the location of Sita, the monkeys led by Sugriva and the two princes have as expected arrived at the other side of the sea, while remembering that we need not fear men, you give your judgment in the debate, as the power of fate is unrivaled. Even the Gods in the heaven could not withstand your furious assault, you deliberate and devise a plan, such that the imprudent foes are eliminated and I retain the captive lady.’ Ravana’s speech only served to provoke Kumbakarna’s ire, he responded, ‘O Monarch, the time to scan the peril and to devise a mature plan was before your impulsive thoughts executed Sita’s abduction; for in that case there would have been no cause for troubled psyche nor need for contrition. Actions which are commenced without option to justice; fair means and runs counter to the principles of righteousness generate sin. You have been ensnared by Sita’s beauty; you have indulged in a desperate and despicable action, you were saved by destiny in that you escaped alive from Sri Rama’s lethal darts. You seek to perform duties at a later date, duties required to be performed earlier you have not discerned the right and the wrong. Ravana as the deed is already done I will not avoid the hostilities, I will smite your foemen; and when Sri Rama is gone, your confidence is restored Sita shall be exclusively yours.’
Punjikasthala and the curse:
Eager to placate his king, Mahaparsva who saw the king stung by reprimand and exasperated, spoke these words, ‘O destroyer of the foes, your foe is pathetic, he has sought the gloomy woodlands, infested with savage beasts, he cannot endeavor to dictate your course of actions. If cajole and appeal fails, unmindful to consequences you revel with the princess of Videhan territory, with all your vigor. If the lady is timid, make her surrender to your pleasures, soon you would have conquered her heart with love and blandishment. Let only Kumbhakarna and Indrajit fight with us, they will lead us to victory over the rivals and soon our foes are conquered, doomed and slain with the retribution of our might.’ The tone of flatter did please the fiend monarch, who began to speak, ‘I will now reveal a curse pronounced on me by the lord who made the universe, which was for long withheld from you. I will never forget the day I ravished the radiant celestial nymph, Punjikasthala, despite her remonstration. Weeping Punjikasthala brought this outrage to the notice of Brahma, who in his fury declared authoritatively, ‘Ravana be warned and dread this curse/punishment, if you commit such a fetid felony hence forward your head will be surely split into a hundred pieces.’ Although Sri Rama is unaware of this dread of mine, I cannot break the Maithili queen’s inflexible will and violate her; I am under trepidation of the threat of retribution. Sri Rama is a man, he is immature in that to wage war with me is uncalled-for audacity, it is like awakening a slumbering lion in his citadel, and he has not seen the unerring potency of the arrows released by me hence he is marching against me. The glory of his might shall dissipate before my grandeur, this city of Lanka formerly ruled by Kubera son of Visrava, was won by me solely on my strength.’
Apprehensive Vibhishana persists:
A very uneasy Vibhishana addressed his king in these words, ‘O my lord, Ravana, beware of Sita, she is akin to a dangerous serpent with deadly fangs, restore her to the Raghu’s sons, before the huge as mountains, unsparing vanara warriors, armed with claws and teeth encircle your city. In your massive army there is not one who can escape Sri Rama’s vengeful shafts, so restore the Maithili queen before the bitter shafts kill your princes. Neither the colossal Kumbhakarna, nor the mighty Indrajit, nor Mahaparswa, nor Nikumbha, nor Kumha, nor Atikaya not even you can escape death for there is no protection, no place to hide, there is not a place to flee be it hell, heavens or the nethermost subterranean regions (Patala).’ Prahasta opposed Vibhishana’s sane counsel and instead proposed this ill conceived advice, ‘O timorous one, there is no cause for fear to us from the demons, the Gods, the celestials, not even the demigods for we from the ogre race scorn them all. How then can we disgrace ourselves with the dread of human king born to a mortal race?’ Vibhishana once again began his rede, ‘The action which the King, Mahodara, Kumbhakarna, and you, propose to take against Sri Rama is not capable of being accomplished by you, the sharp and deadly arrows released with viciousness by Sri Rama; velocity equal to thunderbolt with which the missiles fly, you are not aware O Prahasta, hence you play the braggart. This fiend king Ravana is overpowered by evil afflictions like, harshness of speech, severity of punishment, extravagance, drinking, love of women, hunting and gambling, whilst the virtuous and the honest Sri Rama is the pride of Ikshvaku line, and excels advantageously in comparison even with the Gods. O Monarch hear my last appeal, my advice is for the welfare of your kingdom, take heed O giant king save from the ominous ruin, your town, your people, and your friends from the fury of Sri Rama’s wrath, please restore Sita to her Lord. Please treat this advice as conducive to your interest, please pay attention.’
Indrajit’s braggadocio and prudent Vibhishana:
The valiant son of Ravana and the pride of the Rakshasa warriors started to air his analysis of the situation thus, ‘Vibhishana’s sinking intellect, is devoid of self esteem, his thoughts signify his dread, his rede is not worthy of our king’s consideration. The two forlorn sons of Raghu are no match to even one of our insignificant ogres; surely they cannot match the giant force. Trilokanatha, Lord of the three worlds; Indra; was restrained by my prowess, he dreads my fury, the Gods in every regions (Hell, Heaven, Subterranean, Patala) have confessed their universal dread after I smote Indra with the tusks drawn out of Airavata’s head. Am I, who tamed the arrogance of the celestials, who terrified the giants, now an insignificant weakling, who is incapable of slaying two insignificant mortals (princes)?’ Vibhishana expert in warfare, wisdom and counsel thus replied, ‘your speech ridicules reality, it is rash, it is untamed in tenor, is shallow in intellect, your words sans wisdom and are uttered in youthful excitement. Dear Indrajit, you are Ravana’s son, to you the welfare and safety of your father should be of principal concern, you now speak the language of a foe, despite my caveat; you have not made any effort to set aside your father’s misery. This assemblage is for the wise, you are rash, presumptuous, insolent, irresponsible, foolish, and you ought not to have been allowed to participate in the deliberations. You are unbelievably evil-minded, absolutely irresponsible boy; certainly he who ushered you into this council hall and you deserve death The arrows released by Sri Rama equal Yama’s rod, O Ravana for the sake of your people restore the Vidhehan princess with bountiful gifts to her lord, free yourself from grief, heed this advice which is conducive to your interest.’
Ravana rebukes Vibhishana:
Impelled by adverse fate, the well meaning advice of Vibhishana, served to inflame Ravana who spoke thus, ‘It is harmless to live in an abode with enemies, poisonous serpents, than living with treacherous friends who further the adversaries cause. Such people on the sly mourn your success, and take delight in your woes; they inwardly despise the brave, the noble and the wise. Such people bemoan your happiness, they wait and watch for sorrows, wait eagerly to magnify every error. I tell you that elephants are not scared of fire, nor of javelin, shaft and snare, yet they are scared of one of their own ilk, who is taught to truss the trusting creatures of their kind. The peril from those of our own kind is known to us as the most formidable of all perils. There exists prosperity in the cow; there exists peril from one’s own kinsfolk; there exists unpredictability in women; there exists spiritual discipline in Brahmana; there exists deceitful friends who relentlessly wish you ill, therefore it is not to your liking my brother that I am honoured by the entire globe, for my riches, my supremacy and my suppression of the enemies. Affection does not abide in your heart, you are unworthy, you are a splotch on our glorious race, and friends like you shift loyalties summarily. Had these words heaping disgrace on me been expressed by an ogre other than you he would have been instantly dismissed to the abode of Yama.’ Furious Vibhishana with four of his attendants leapt into the air, and made this furious reply, ‘O Ravana I recognize your rights, my elder brother, your words we obey, we respect you, presently you have strayed from the virtuous path, hence impelled by malignant fate you thus speak rudely . O king beware; you will meet a thousand counselors, who will speak words of flattering deceit, just listen to them, do not act on their advice, rare are the people who speak the bitter truth, hear them, wake up to the reality, cast off the noose of death clinging on you. O King, my Lord, my brother, save yourself, save your royal town, save your people and save your reputation, do not reject my earnest appeal, this is a salutary advice of a well wisher.’
Vibhishana seeks Sri Rama:
(The departure to the enemy camp by Vibhishana is narrated with terseness by Sage Valmiki. Some respected commentators portray Vibhishana as being deracinated by Ravana. Humiliated Vibhishana subsequently meets his mother, thereafter he takes off to Mount Kailasa where he has audience with Siva, and on his advice seeks Sri Rama and the vanara army.) Soon after his harsh talk with Ravana, gorgeously attired in ceremonial robes Vibhishana with his four attendants fled to the opposite shore seeking Sri. Rama and the vanara hosts. As the huge in size air borne Rakshasa, who vied with Indra in splendor and his brave and bold attendants were glimpsed in the sky, wild surmises and nervous misgivings rocked Sugriva’s mind, who exclaimed, ‘Look out you vanaras, awe-inspiring giant with four of his followers, come here to overpower and eliminate us.’ The unconcerned vanara chieftains, seized rocks and trees as missiles urged their lord for his command to annihilate the foes. Stationed in the sky Vibhishana in a voice that made him audible told Sugriva, ‘I am Vibhishana the youngest brother of the lord of giants Ravana, who stole Janaka’s daughter from Janasthana and is holding her captive in his isle. I counseled Ravana to restore the Maithili queen to her lord, but impelled by ruinous fate, my brother scorned at my sage advice and spurned me like a lowly slave. O! Vanara chieftain, please convey to Sri Rama, a suppliant Vibhishana scared of Ravana’s wrath has fled for his life; abandoning his children and spouse , is now seeking Sri Rama’s protection.’ Sugriva sought Sri Rama, promptly conveyed to him, ‘King Ravana’s brother Vibhishana feigning to flee his brother seeks asylum with you. O king Sri Rama, be on your guard, Vibhishana may be a clandestine enemy let not this ogre ensnare and slay us with his deviousness. Let this Vibhishana the brother of the fiend king Ravana and his four followers be punished with death.’ Hearing Sugriva, Sri Rama spoke to the bold Hanuman and other monkeys thus, “O Vanaras you have heard Sugriva speak, when confronted with doubts, peril, fear and distress the wise depend for advice of a faithful friend. I seek every one of you to express your honest opinion on the tricky assignment we now have.” Vanaras heard these words of Sri Rama, they subsequently made their reverential submission thus, ‘O Raghu’s son, you are duteous, brave, truthful, heroic, faithful to your vows, you are proficient in lore’s, you need no advice from us,’ the vanara chieftains thereafter chose to speak individually to win Sri Rama’s assent by their arguments. The astute Angada began thus, ‘Vibhishana may be of treacherous mind, let us view him with vigilant mind, let us carefully evaluate him, till we are cleared of all doubts of his intent, then we can decide to accept or reject him in our fold.’ Prudent Sarabha gave his decision in these words, ‘Sri Rama let an expert spy be sent to assess the stranger and on his report we may grant/refuse Vibhishana’s request.’ Wise and scholarly King Jambhavan, ‘Vibhishana is the brother of sinful and devious Rakshasa Ravana hence he is subject to mistrust.’ The vastly shrewd Mainda gave his sober advise, ‘O ruler of the kings, let Vibhishana be progressively interrogated, and his intents be ascertained, after that we can treat him as a friend or foe.’ Hanuman the foremost of the counselors, made this concise submission which was soothing to the ear, ‘O King you are ultimate in insight, you are unrivalled in eloquence, I speak only because of the importance of the matter. I shall speak only that which is correct and I speak not for the sake of argument, nor with the sense of superiority or through desire to speak. Vibhishana is no devious mole, Vibhishana is a guiltless character, even as he speaks his malevolence is not noticed, perforce facial expression of men reveal their inner feelings, he fled Lanka leaving behind his kin, because he has found you (Sri. Rama) superior from a moral point of view as opposed to the evil minded Ravana. If as suggested; when strangers quiz Vibishana, the conversation will be marred by distrust, you will lose a faithful friend, nor is it so uncomplicated a thing to probe a stranger’s heart. He has come here happily as a friend; he has come here loathing his brother for his crimes; he has heard of your reputation. Knowing Ravana to be narcissistic, and of immoral conduct he has heard you strike Vali with a single arrow, (Vali went round the globe squeezing Ravana in his armpit) as well as of your crowning Sugriva, Vibhishana who longed for sovereignty, has come to you to seek your assistance, to punish Ravana for his sin. I have tried to the best of my capacity to prove the ogres sincerity, please ponder on what I said and decide on the best option.’
Sri Rama’s communiqué:
The words spoken by Hanuman reflected the thoughts in Sri Rama’s mind. Ecstatic and well versed in the scriptural lore’s Sri Rama, now spoke, “I will never abandon a suppliant, nor will I reject assistance to anyone who seeks my compassion even if he is reckless and spiteful.” After a pause the Vanara lord Sugriva respectfully submitted, ‘What do you think of a Rakshasa who is not faithful to his brother, who when confronted with a threat; suddenly flees to the adversary seeking sanctuary; in such a situation how can the vanaras find true friendship from this untrustworthy breed?’ Hearing the submission of Sugriva, Sri Rama sporting a smile on his lips, cast a glance on the brave vanara chieftains, turning to Lakshmana he expressed his thoughts, “Sugriva is well versed in the knowledge of the scriptures, true to his age and his mature perception he articulates thus; but I think for his incisive conclusion there lies deeper and subtler theme. It is known world over that sovereign’s own kindred and the rulers of adjoining provinces have been acknowledged antagonists and they strike at the kingdom in the times of monarch’s misfortune. Vibhishana thought it prudent to clinch an alliance with us, hoping to wrest the kingdom from his brother. In furtherance of his design, Vibhishana even if he is an infiltrator or a foe, has no power to inflict damage on us, for his strength is not comparable to mine. Regarding the disadvantage of accepting as one’s own an individual of the hostile party, I shall make a reply in conformity with the lore’s, while a kinsman even though virtuous is often worth suspecting for they are covetous of sovereignty; we are not the relatives of this ogre. Ogres are learned too, when united with us they will feel free from anxiety and fear of one another, thus they will fall a prey to dissension, hence on this count Vibhishana is worthy of acceptance. O dear Sugriva all brothers are not like Bharata, nor all sons of a father are like me; nor are again all friends like you.” When told as aforementioned by Sri Rama, astute Sugriva submitted, ‘O mighty armed prince, Vibhishana is the brother of cruel Ravana, he is incited by a treacherous intention, he is directed by Ravana he has come here to deliver a blow at you when you are credulous, or at me when I stand encouraged with self-belief in him, or even at Lakshmana, hence he is to be killed.’ Thereupon Sri Rama began his righteous reply, “O vanara king I cannot deny aid or shelter, if the request be from friends or foes, this night rover is incapable of subtlest mischief to me; O! Ruler of the monkey hordes I can if I so desire kill with my finger nails (tips) at the slightest hint of trouble. (An obvious allusion to the slaying of Hryanakashipu in the Nrsimha avatar, a not so subtle hint to Sugriva that the lord has made up his mind in the matter; or is it on reading between the lines that the Lord has made an alliance with the Vanaras just to induce the thought submission into the ogre lord’s mind; after seeing the massive army of monkeys) Further I will narrate to you, how by a dove a fowler was humanely received and was actually generously served with its own flesh even after the fowler had carried away its mate; a man like myself should do much more. In the past a cow was slaughtered by the learned sage Kandu in obedience to his father’s command even though he knew it to be a sin. (Sage Kandu is mentioned by Sri Rama as an example of filial obedience.) Do not smack a suppliant when he asks for shelter with pleading hands, even if he were your father’s deadly enemy, give him the shelter he seeks when he is in desperate need, save your enemy even if it costs your life. I shall not deny the suppliant the sanctuary, thus lose stateliness and a place in the heaven. I solemnly swear I offer refuge to all those who in distress resolutely seek me as their only hope. O Vanara king I urge you to bring to my presence Vibhishana, I cannot reject his appeal, yes even if he were Ravana in person”. Sugriva for his part replied, ‘I too sense Vibhishana to be sincere, let him be in our company and benefit from our camaraderie.’ Hearing Sugriva Sri Rama for his part speedily arranged for a meeting with Vibhishana.
Vibhishana’s information:
Vibhishana having been approved sanctuary, descended together with his four attendants, offered his reverential obeisance at Sri Rama’s feet and spoke thus, ‘O Sri Rama I am the humiliated younger brother of Ravana, I seek your protection. I am unfortunate and pathetic, after abandoning my kin, wealth and friends I come to you; and now all my joys, my kingdom and even my life depend on you.’ Casting an affectionate ogle on Vibhishana, Sri Rama spoke, “Dear guest, I would like to know from you your hopes, your qualms, as well as the strengths and weakness of the ogres.” Vibhishana responded to Sri Rama, ‘O Prince, Brahma the self born creator conferred a boon on Ravana, that no fiend nor snake, nor Gadharvas nor God can exterminate him. My elder brother Kumbakarna contends in valor with Indra the ruler of the Gods. The commander-in-chief of the armies is the dreadful Prahasta by whom Manibhadra the commander of Kubera’s forces was bested in an encounter at Mount Kailasa. Ravana’s eldest son young Indrajit wears a brace to protect his left arm from injury from the bow-string, and a guard to protect the fingers of the right hand, he is invincible in the field of battle for he strikes the enemy making himself invisible. Ogres Mahodara, Mahaparswa and Akampana, are the commanders and there are a hundred thousand million fierce ogres who can each change their forms at will they eat the flesh of those they kill, these ogres accompanied by their sovereign Ravana routed the celestials in a fight.’ Sri Rama swore, “I do not care their indomitable deeds or their strength, the fiend king; his commander in chief, his son and the kith and kin have to quit this life. Ravana has no protection, not even in the penultimate subterranean region, (Rasatala) or the nethermost subterranean region, (Patala), nor even in the presence of the grandfather of the entire creation, Brahma. I promise I will not return to Ayodhya until Ravana and his kith and kin have paid the price of sin in death and you will be the sovereign instead of Ravana.” Vibhishana spoke thus, ‘I will guide your army and assist you in the overthrow of the tyrant.’ Pleased Sri Rama, embraced the rakshasa chieftain, said he to Lakshmana, “now that I am pleased with Vibhishana consecrate Vibhishana as the king of ogres with the sea-water,” soon the consecrating drops were shed over Vibhishana’s head, amidst shouts from the vanara army hailing him as Lord of the Lanka. Interrogated by Hanuman and Sugriva, on the passage of the vanara army through the boisterous sea, to reach the coast on the opposite side, thus said Vibhishana, ‘let Sri Rama prayerfully seek the lord of the seas to lend assistance to him. The sagacious lord of the Ocean is a prince of Sagara’s lineage, one of Sri Rama’s own race.’ The counsel of Vibhishana found favour with Sri Rama, after knowing that this guidance found the support of Sugriva and Lakshmana too; Sri Rama forthwith sat on the tender sacred grass overspread on the ocean shore.
Sardula and Sukha:
Ravana’s infiltrator the ogre Sardula surveyed the well arrayed legions who are on course to storm the citadel of Lanka, petrified; he rushed to the ogre monarch to convey his dread, ‘O monarch, led by two powerful charismatic princes, a colossal army of the fierce rovers of the boondocks are set to storm your citadel. You have to halt their march lest you are in the impending danger of being overpowered, be wise swiftly take recourse to the well-known expedients of restitution, conciliation, or causing dissensions in the enemy’s ranks.’ Alarmed Ravana directed the ogre Suka to relay to the son of Riksharaja thus, ‘O Vanara lord, I see in you a friend and a brother, you are endowed with immense clout, might and fame, you have not been persecuted by me nor can you hope to gain anything from me. If I had stolen from the forests the spouse of Sri Rama you have no cause for grief, for you are not wronged or deprived. O King Lanka is a mighty town and cannot be penetrated even by mighty armies of the celestials, therefore revisit your abode.’ Obedient Sukha acquired the form of a bird, he swiftly took the aerial route, he positioned himself above the Vanara king, he spoke aloud and sublime, the message he was assigned to deliver. Even as he was speaking the enraged vanaras hemmed him with strokes on his head, pinions and brought him to the ground wounded and tattered. Distressed Sukha appealed to the Scion of Kakutstha, ‘Restrain the Vanaras, heralds who speaks truthfully his master’s speech should never be slaughtered.’ Sri Rama was moved by the suppliant’s speech and prayer; he saved the Rakshasa messenger from further blows. The envoy resumed his address to the Vanara monarch, ‘O vanara monarch you are endued with incredible resilience, what is your answer to the message of my irate king?’ Immediate came Sugriva’s reply, ‘Go tell your lord, Sri Rama’s arm slaughtered the culpable Vali, your conceited tyrant king shall with his kith and kin, friends and all should perish too, Lanka would be emptied of the giants brood. O insensate Ravana you cannot be protected by celestials, you have no hiding place in all the three worlds; you have to fall a prey to Sri Rama’s vengeful fury. If you are powerful why you did kill the vulture king, Jatayu, emasculated in age, why was not the lotus eyed Sita now held captive in your palace not borne away by you in the presence of the Raghu’s sons? You do not know the unforgiving fury of the princes whom you had the guts to wrong; await now your turn to receive the punishment.’ Angada in his turn proclaimed, ‘he is no envoy, he is a mole, bind the spy let him not be allowed to fly to Lanka.’ The vanara hosts hurtled the fiend to the ground, bound his pinions, grasped his neck and in pain the fiend raised his voice to protest to Sri Rama, he shrieked; ‘If I a herald lose my life at this point in time you will have to own all sins perpetrated by me during my life time.’ The fiend was released by the vanaras on the orders of Sri Rama.
Sri Rama indignant, ocean in peril:
Sri Rama hoisted his hands in veneration, he rested facing eastwards on the sacred grass that was his settee and his arms served as pillow. Though honoured according to his importance, three days had passed yet the lord of the Ocean did not reveal himself personally before Sri Rama. Annoyed against the Ocean Sri Rama spoke thus to Lakshmana, “The arrogance of the lord of the Ocean who is bereft of virtues, he misreads my sympathy, exculpation, gentle speech, forthrightness, as a sign of weakness. The humankind treats with deference a man who is sullied, is presumptuous, indulges in self praise, who hates the right, whose hands are ever raised to punish at random. Gentle measures win superciliousness; it is only the warrior’s mighty arms that fetch triumph. My modest appeal is denied by Ocean’s brash smugness; at a time like this compassion is a crime welcome the battle, the foe and the bow, he who knew no fear shall now shudder.” He grasped his powerful bow and released from his clanging cord the flaming projectiles that went down through the troubled waters. The sea monsters, the serpents, the fiends and enemies of the Gods felt the horror, emitted a roar, the waves of the ocean in large numbers was all of a sudden covered with mighty billows, overspread with conches and pearls. Hurrying towards vengeful Sri Rama, Lakshmana with calm reasoning assuaged his brother’s angry mood in words, ‘Brother control your passion, devise some long-lasting way of crossing the sea, your purpose of taking the vanara hosts across the sea will surely be accomplished.’ The celestials too exclaimed, ‘Spare, Sri Rama spare, hold back your ire!’
Ocean responds:
Annoyed Sri Rama threatened the Sea, “I and the vanara hosts will reach on foot the other seaboard after my searing arrows devour all the water here. You cannot save from destruction the creatures that dwell in you; even the passage of time cannot eradicate the memory of this calamitous ignominy.” Currently Sri Rama fitted to his excellent bow the mortal shaft; the unerring mystic weapon in severity resembled the rod of Brahma. As he stretched the bow, immense horror struck the skies above and the earth below, the mountains wobbled, sudden darkness engulfed the earth, the skies were illumined by meteorites, there was the matchless lightning and thunder, and the furious gales lashed the trembling earth. Overthrown tall trees lay shattered, huge broken mountain masses lay strewn, visible beings let go shrill shrieks, the invisible ones emitted a thunderous roar, and all round there was a howl or a scream. Due to the fury, the ocean with its waters and creatures abruptly displayed a horrifying vehemence, water surged beyond the confines of the shoreline; the tranquil Sri Rama stood his ground. From the irate deluge emerged in person the bright as the Sun, the Sea-God, spectacular to view his eyes tranquil, he was decked with jewels of gold, inlaid with precious stones, clad in red robes, on his person he sported a garland of red flowers. The lord of the Ocean was accompanied by the furious eyed sea serpents, also were seen deities presiding over the rivers Indus, the Ganges in the company of the Sea-God. From the waters of every well-known stream and brook circled around him swelling and soaring; emerged the Lord of the Ocean with his upraised suppliant hands, and head bent low in reverence, he addressed Sri Rama, ‘O, scion of Raghu, air, earth, fire, ether, and water true to the timeless natural law have to pursue their course, and I the lord of the Ocean, have been ordained by nature that I should be immeasurable and not fordable. I have not accumulated the water in a heap for love, hope, avidity or fear; in any case I shall strive to provide a pathway, an easy passageway over the waves for you and the monkeys to cross over to the other shore, the alligators and crocodiles will not be aggressive till then.’ Again spoke Sri Rama, “This mighty and unfailing arrow is never summoned in vain, O lord of the Ocean, tell me where the fury of this magic shaft shall descend?” The Ocean replied, ‘to my north is the very famed and holy region Drumakulya inhabited by sinful marauders of Abhira race, their actions are despicable and they are hideous in appearance, they are barbaric, I do not tolerate their drinking my water, let your famed arrow be aimed there.’ Swiftly Sri Rama let go the arrow from his bow, the earth in that region shrieked, the waters from the penultimate subterranean surged from that crevice. The cleft now turned into a well; known as Vrana meaning wound; gushing forth sea-water and the region ever since has been well known as Marukantara. A terrible sound caused by the hurling of the arrow by Sri Rama dried up the water existing in the cavities of the earth throughout the region. Dasaratha’s son Sri Rama conferred the following boon to bless and fertilize that wilderness, “This land will abound in ghee honey and milk, will be rich in varied fragrant herbs, the earth should produce every pleasant root, stately trees blended with fruits, sheep and kine shall flourish here.” After that spoke the king of brooks and Seas to the Raghu’s son in words like these and vanished, ‘Let the monkey Nala, the son of Viswakarma, (the architect of the Gods) build a bridge over me and I will sustain it. Nala has been granted a boon of proficiency in all arts, by his father, he is full of zeal indeed he is as good an architect as his father.’ Nala the foremost of the monkeys thereupon addressed Sri Rama, ‘O King, punishment is only course open to a man in the world in relation to the ungrateful; through fear of you alone the Ocean has now allowed a passage over the deluge. My mother before my birth had this boon from my father Viswakarma, ‘O Mandari your child shall be in skill and glory next to me.’ O Sri Rama I have the supremacy and the tenacity to lay a bridge over the deep sea where the monsters play, command the vanara hosts to lay the foundations for the bridge today.’ At the command of Sri Rama the vanaras, uprooted the trees, like the timbers, the Asokas, the Sals, the trees with flowers of varied hues, the loveliest wreathed creepers, and threw them into the sea. The colossal monkeys dug up the massive mountains and by means of the mechanical apparatus flung them into the sea. The Ocean heaved, roared and engorged wildly when the mountains fell, a frenzied sound arose from rocks and mountains being thrown into the that extensive sea at that time. The great bridge of astounding strength a hundred leagues in length; was built of huge rocks bound with cordage from the shore; by Nala in cooperation with the other monkeys of impressive exploits, the stunning work was done in five days. Thus a bridge splendid and fascinating as the Milky Way; the workmanship as good as that of Viswakarma, was built across the sea the home of the alligators, the Gods, the celestials, the sages beheld the bridge, extremely difficult of construction for others. At once Vibhishana stood with mace in hand to protect the extensive, well-constructed magnificent smooth solidly cemented and vast bridge to repulse the enemies should they try to demolish the bridge. Eager for the onward march, annoyed and impatient Sugriva said to Sri Rama, ‘Come you ascend Hanuman’s back and like-wise Lakshmana ascend Angada’s back, and these monkeys will carry you to the other shore’. With Sugriva, Ikshvaku’s sons leading the legions, some among the vanara multitudes, crossed the shore over the bridge constructed by Nala, others took the passage through the air in the midst of unending roar, their roar drowning the roar of the sea, and they encamped on the other shore of the islet crammed with brooks, trees loaded with fruits. Gazing on the spectacular accomplishment the celestials, the sages, rishis and the Gods consecrated Sri Rama with auspicious waters further they paid their salutation to Sri Rama, ‘O king conquer your enemies, and rule over the earth for numberless years.’
Evil portents:
Embracing dear Lakshmana to his breast Sri Rama who was skilled in the reading of omens said, “Let the vanara hosts be in battle array in the region provided with fresh water, roots and fruits. I see calamitous omens, which prefigure destruction of the world, the imminent massacre of friends, of vanaras and of bears. Earth is quaking, winds are dusty, the mountains are shaking from pedestal to crest, majestic trees are collapsing, fierce clouds resembling carnivorous monsters produce shrill shrieks and rain in torrents are red with sanguinary drops. The illumined evening skies are gaudy; the blazing sun is seen to shed fuming orbs of fire, the night-prowlers, beasts and birds run and scream in wretched pitch facing the setting sun, the hawks, vultures, crows, kites and all the birds are sending out ominous screams. Contrary to her nature, the moon is bereft of grandeur and is radiating heat even in the night, the sky is feral, the cloud of soot and fog mars the beauty of the stars, and all these are the harbinger of the widespread disaster and the destruction of the world before long. It appears the earth will be will be strewn with sword, spear, shaft, rocks darts, blood and a quagmire of flesh of the ogres and our hosts, we should without delay this very day march towards Lanka ruled by the Ravana.” Accompanied by Lakshmana, Sugriva, Vibhishana and all the well known monkeys roaring for the destruction of their ogre foes all ventured forward.
Vanara army in battle array; Suka released:
From the sea the army of the bold and the brave drawn up in battle array, swiftly marched away on foot onto the island, the earth trembled because of the thumping and trampling of the countless feet. The giants heard the mingled notes of drum and tom-toms, the shouting and the battle cry, the sound of the belligerent shriek inspired and excited every chieftain; the giants countered in defiant tones. Sri Rama looked at Lanka where bright banners hovered in the air; his thoughts pierced with anguish dashed to Sita, he echoed; “There imprisoned by the giants is my tender eyed lady, akin to the queen of stars (Rohini) overpowered by the fiery red bodied planet (Mars).” Then turning to brother Lakshmana anguished Sri Rama said, “See on the hill the exquisitely planned, peerless in beauty, Lanka which vies in splendor with the one built by the architect of Gods, Viswakarma, there are the palaces and the shrines that are dazzling from at a distance, it is like the appearance of the sky covered with white clouds, akin to the abode of Vishnu. Lanka stands embellished with fascinating copse in blossom supplying fruits and flowers to the royal palace. The delightful cluster of trees are inhabited by the birds in heat, the hidden bees and the teeming cuckoos, they shake continually giving way to the gentle breeze.” Having said this, he arrayed the vanara hosts in battle formation, he instructed, “in the centre shall be Angada by the side of NIla, on the right be the lord and the mighty leader the impetuous Rishabha, at the head of the left flank of the simian army should be stationed the sprightly and the difficult to overawe Gandhamadhana; let Jambhavan the leader of the ursine breed, the bold the fearless Sushena and Vegadarsi guard the rear, let Sugriva guard all sides while Lakshmana and myself will lead from the front.” The chieftains complied with Sri Rama’s words, they all pressed forward, with one resolve either to batter down Lanka’s tower’s and walls or die fighting. Sri Rama instructed Sugriva, “O Monarch before we proceed further let Ravana’s spy, Sukha be freed.” Released from confinement trembling and terrified Suka fled towards Ravana, who flippantly enquired of Suka in words, ‘why are the feathers disfigured, why are they clipped, are you the victim of vanara’s nastiness?’ Suka spoke after controlling his fear, ‘In a forthright manner I faithfully delivered your message to the King. In a trifle Vanaras seized me, held me helpless on the ground, pounded me with blows, rent my plumage and bound my pinions. The vast number of monkeys in their ire would not listen or inquire, they are capricious, furious, vulgar, and are violent. Sri Rama is an incomparable combatant, he slew Viradha, Kabandha, Khara and numerous giants, he has in search of his queen marshaled his vast as an ocean troops, in his vindictive hate he has reached the shores of Lanka and soon he will be on the threshold of Lanka. The option before you is to yield the Maithili queen to Sri Rama, or risk your safety and oppose him.’ Infuriated Ravana responded, ‘I will meet my foe and shred his vaunted potency, my shafts like hurricane will damage his army. Sri Rama does not know of my strength, I am incapable of being subdued in combat even by Indra, Varuna or Yama, Sri Rama when confronted with my ire has to flee.’
The infiltrators:
After Sri Rama and the vanara hordes traversed the sea, Ravana spoke to his ministers Suka and Sarana, ‘Dasaratha’s son has done the unimaginable and the incredible, he has constructed the bridge athwart the ocean, the vanara swarm have reached this side of the coast, find out who assisted Sri Rama in the construction of the bridge across the sea. I now want you to enter the simian ranks and ascertain the enormity, the intensity, the multitude of the vanara hosts, the competence of their commanders, their past performance and all. Carefully assess the prowess of Sri Rama, his heroic brother Lakshmana, their heroism, their strength, and the weapons used by them, discern with attentive eyes and bring me the incisive account.’ In vanaras guise the moles swiftly began their errand; they were dismayed at the sight of the unflappable sea of army, whose number could not be envisioned. Attentive Sage Vibhishana spotted the giants in disguise, commanded their seizure, and submitted to Sri Rama, ‘Here are the two well known spies of Ravana sent here to observe and report on the invading army.’ Shrinking, trembling the heralds informed, ‘Our monarch advised us to find out about the vanara throng, survey the numbers, their strength and their array, and we speak only the truth O Rama.’ Thus spoke the companion, the hope and the guide of the suffering creatures Sri Rama, “O fiends, if your mission has been accomplished as directed by your monarch, you may return, however if anything remained un-scrutinized you should have a closer look. Unarmed, captive and helpless envoy should never be harmed; do not fear your life, threat or incarceration, Vibhishana will show you all, when finished tell your lord these words of mine, ‘Now tyrant tremble for your sin, call up your kith, kin and friends to see your power and might which emboldened you to steal my queen. Tomorrow your sorrowful eyes will witness the death of your brave warriors, the destruction of the towers and the citadel struck by my fiery shafts. I will let loose my horrendous fury on you and your forces matched in fury only by Indra’s thunderbolt discharged on the demons” The freed giants in unison commended Sri Rama and hastened to their lord to report, ‘first we were seized by Vibhishana, then we were seen by the glorious, the hugely compassionate hero who freed us from certain slaughter. The four valiant; like the guardians of the world, the jewels among men, glorious Sri Rama, valiant Lakshmana, sage Vibhishana, and equal in prowess to mighty Indra, Sugriva, are at one place, they themselves can batter down the fortification, walls, gate and the town of Lanka. Supreme Sri Rama alone with his extraordinary weapons can without the support of the other three can annihilate, storm your town; and then why speak of his immeasurable army. O King, be wise, have done with animosity, let harmony be accomplished with Sri Rama, restore Sita to her Lord.’
Ravana inquires Sarana makes known:
Ravana severely rebuked his envoys in such words, ‘Owing to your trepidation and the violent abuse inflicted on you by the monkeys you shamelessly advise me to restore Videhan princess to her lord. I will not yield the Maithili queen to her lord even if the Gods, the demons and the celestials in unison attack me, I have no fear of the whole world, no adversary can conquer me in war.’ With an intention to survey the vanara army he climbed the palace roof top with Suka and Sarana, his furious eyes saw the terrestrial region below fully crowded with innumerable monkeys; the army of Sri Rama arrayed according to the rules ordained in the scriptures, Ravana saw this army formation in human shape. He interrogated Sarana, ‘Tell me the leaders of the Vanaras, their names, their gallantry, their clout and the capacity of each one of them.’ Dutiful Sarana forthwith submitted as follows, ‘The prominent chief with unforgiving stare at the head, whose commanding voice vibrates all Lanka is Nila, he is distinguished for his valor. He who in stature looks like a mighty mountain, in tint who looks like a lotus flower, who looks at Lanka with his fierce eyes, who is lifting his arms and with his earth shaking battle cries for the sake of Sri Rama; is the crown prince Angada the son of the King Vali he is the ever beloved of Sugriva. It is Angada who planned Hanuman’s journey across the sea that resulted in the discovery of the Sita’s hiding place in your kingdom. Behind Vali’s son stands the valiant Viswakarma’s son Nala who built the bridge athwart the ocean. Beyond that O king is the clever, agile and silver like in hue the famed monkey Sweta, you see him whisper in Sugriva’s ears he is the delight of the troops, he is reviewing the squadrons. Next is Kumuda who in the days of the yore, roamed on the bank of river Gomati, he ruled his kingdom located on the lovely Samrochana Mountains. Next to him is the strong and dreaded chieftain Chanda he gloats in his might and yearns for the fight. He who is tawny of hue and the bearing of a lion, who looks at you with a glimpse of hate, is the fiery eyed Rambha who dwells on the Vindhya, Krishnagiri, Sahya and Sudarshan Mountains. Look he who dilates his ears, that mighty chief who is burning for strife never dreads the peril of his life is Sarabha he quivers as he rouses for rage; he commands the mighty monkey hordes known the name Viharas. The battle cry resembling the roar of the kettle drum that is heard at the present moment it is the voice of the Panasa the prominent vanara who dwells in the exceptional Pariyatra Mountains, he is difficult to defy in combat, and his troops ranged behind him, are ever at his call. He who is huge as Dardura Mountains for his part lending charm to his frightening army is Vinata he moves about drinking the waters of the river Veena. The monkey Krodhana who commands courageous troop commanders is challenging you to battle. Next comes the monkey having an ochre like hue is the conceited Gavaya he comes to trample Lanka with his congregation. The aforesaid innumerable troop commanders are the foremost among the generals, are formidable heroes and have distinct units under their command.
The individual heroism of the vanara chiefs, Sarana’s version:
‘There are many more monkey generals, who are ready to stake their lives for Sri Rama’s cause, this flaxen, the one who sparkles like the morning sun is Hara renowned for his strength is itching to storm Lanka. Next comes mighty chieftain, the proud ursine chief, whose inestimable legions armed with rock and tree, whom you perceive like huge grave clouds, are endowed with enduring prowess. The commander of the troops is Dhumra, of frightful glance and fearful aspect; he is majestic surrounded on all sides as the God of rains Parjanya, is by clouds. He with his wild warriors dwell on the Rikshvan Mountains, he quenches his thirst on the Narmada river waters. Younger brother of Dhumra superior in prowess to him, called Jambhavan is the famed sage of the yore, he lent his skill and might to Indra the lord of the Gods in the conflict between the Gods and the demons and was bestowed in return with generous boons, his troops are hirsute and gifted with immense energy and hurl from a distance massive rocks and do not tremble when confronted with death. This lord of monkeys at whom all the monkeys stand gazing is a commander of commanders Rambha by name. That enormous quadruped who is the ultimate in size is referred to as the grandfather of the monkeys named Samnadana, he in a battle with Indra sustained no defeat. This glorious jewel among monkeys Krathana was begotten by the God of fire through a Gandarva maiden for the purpose of helping the Gods in the conflict between the demons and the Gods he aspires to crush Lanka with his army. There resembling an ominous cloud thundering and uprooting the trees remembering the old antagonism between the elephants and the monkeys, stands the general Pramathi, who in the days of yore roamed along the banks of the river Ganges sowing dread among the elephant herds. (According to a Pauranik legend Kesari, Hanuman’s putative father had killed a demon who appeared in the form of an elephant, hence began the hostility between monkeys and elephants.)Now he dwells on Mount Usirabija along the bank of the Ganga, is that powerful leader of the simian troops Pramathi, who is difficult to confront. Here are the frightening black faced large tailed monkeys called Golongulas surrounding their general Gavaksha, roaring in their anxiety to crush Lanka. O king at the distance is the general named Kesari the foremost of the leading monkeys who dwells on the lovely Sumeru (the golden mountain), then O king there is the valiant chief, who worships the Sun God every day the clever Satabali who desires to destroy Lanka with his troops. Besides, look there is Gaja, Gavaksha, who show their hunger for scuffle with the foe, Nala who is roaring for the tussle, and Nila rasping at the delay and behind them are the numberless hosts, all for Sri Rama’s sake would go down or force his way through the citadels of Lanka.’
Suka on the persons in command:
After Sarana, Sukha spoke to Ravana as follows, ‘There at a distance you see the monkeys huge in size like elephants, very tall like the stately trees, they look like Daityas and Danavas, they change their appearances that suits their needs, they dwell in the feral Kishkinda serving their lord Sugriva. There beyond, O Monarch, you see Mainda and Dwivida a glorious pair, noticeable for their Godly features, duly permitted by the creator Brahma; they have guzzled the drink of immortality. That chieftain whom you see refulgent like a hill of gold, when enraged would violently agitate the ocean itself, he is the peerless vanara who came to Lanka in search of the Maithili queen. He is the eldest son of Kesari, also known as the offspring of the wind-god widely known as Hanuman, you have seen him once before, he comes here for the second time, he is endowed with might and charm and he cannot be restrained. Hanuman when yet a child feeling hungry, he resolved in his mind, ‘I shall eat up the sun as otherwise my hunger will not be satiated.’ Proud of his might he leapt up into the air to reach the sun-god, who is most impregnable even to the Gods, Rishis and ogres, in the process he fell on the eastern mountains and fractured his jaw. His strength, physical charm and glory are beggaring description; he aspires to destroy Lanka single-handedly. Close by, he who has the lotus like eyes, who is dark brown of complexion, is that great car-warrior Sri Rama, the scion of Ikswaku. He is known in all the worlds for his virtues, never transgresses honesty, he is ever duteous, is well versed in Vedas, he is skilled in the use of mystic weaponry, his flaming darts can split the vaults of heaven and can slit the earth, his wrath is like the wrath of the lord of death. Sita is the darling of his soul, whom by deception you have stolen; it is the same Sri Rama who longs for battle to retaliate for the wrongs meted out to him. To the right of Sri Rama is his brother Lakshmana, in hue he is like freshly burnished pure gold, he is the faithful friend and the right hand of his brother Sri Rama and nay he is the very external life breath of Sri Rama. He is skilled in statecraft, as well as in warfare, he is brave, victorious, mighty and is unforgiving towards the enemies of Sri. Rama, he would gladly die for his brother’s sake. On Sri Rama’s left is Vibhishana and his giant squad, he is anointed the Giant Monarch in your place by Sri Rama and he is raring to go for an encounter with you. That chieftain whom you see immovable like a rock is Sugriva the lord of all monkeys, he is renowned for his might, glory, intelligence, and charm. He resides deep in the Kishkinda woods; by Sri Rama’s grace a glistening chain burnished with gold which is coveted by the goddess of fortune adorns his neck. This chain as well as Tara, the consort of his elder brother Vali, the lasting ruler ship of the monkeys was granted to Sugriva by Sri Rama after he was rescued from his foe, Vali. Enumeration of Sugriva’s forces, a hundred thousand is a lakh; a hundred thousand multiplied by a hundred is a crore, a lakh of crores is called a Sankhu, a lakh of Sankhus is a Mahasankhu, a lakh of Mahasankhu is a Vrnda, a lakh of Vrndas is Mahavrnda , a lakh of Mahavrnda is a Padma, a lakh of Padmas is Mahapadma, a lakh of Mahapadma is a Kharva, a lakh of Mahakharvas is a Samudra, a lakh of Samudra is an Ogha and a lakh of Oghas is Mahaugha, thus by all accounts this army of Sugriva reaches a hundred thousand billions, O great king this army is ranged like a blazing planet, hence supreme effort may now be put forth by you to avoid embarrassment.’
Sardula and others as moles:
With keen grasp, agitation at heart, and enraged to view the vanaras and the lord of men, Ravana, sternly rebuked Sukha and Sarana, the spies; ‘Can faithful servants in the presence of their ruler utter words of praises in support of the foes, who are advancing to wage war? In vain you have listened to your preceptor’s lore, the essence of political wisdom which deserved to be acted upon in your life has not been imbibed by you, and instead you endure loads of ignorance. It is a miracle that Ravana is in power even though conjoined with brainless advisors, who speak disrespectfully; who sinfully hymn praises of the enemies. Only your years of faithful service bring about your escape from a very certain death, you are ungrateful to me, you are devoid of devotion to me henceforth to me you are dead,’ the two saying ‘Be victorious Ravana,’ withdrew from his presence. The fiend monarch thereafter shouted to Mahodara, ‘bring more duteous and faithful infiltrators.’ Swift to the royal command Mahodara fetched the trust worthy, brave, resolute, fearless, messengers who stood reverentially before the monarch pronouncing benedictions. Said Ravana to the infiltrators, ‘quickly proceed to Sri Rama’s place, find out who advise him, find who are close to him in planning, find out who are his confidants, what are his plans, when he wakes up in the day and when he retires to rest, what is dear to his heart, what he proposes to do today, watch zealously and come away quickly. An enemy whose potency and schedule have come to be known through spy after being overwhelmed is kept away, by wise monarch with little effort.’ After due obeisance to their monarch the moles with Sardula as their leader in disguise they reached the bosky side of Suvela mountains; they saw Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva and Vibhishana, in trepidation they were spying on the countless vanara hosts, despite their guise they could not escape Vibhishana’s attentive glance. Vibhishana bade the warrior band to instantaneously rough up the errant emissaries which they did. Ever merciful Sri Rama freed the captives from their certain death, he bade them go home, and discomfited they fled to acquaint the ogre Lanka monarch.
Sardula’s evaluation:
The moles with Sardula as their head reported to their lord, that Sri Rama has entrenched with his unconquerable forces on the Suvela Mountains, the disconcerted tyrant spoke the following words, ‘Has grief or terror changed your manifestation, have the wild vanaras overwhelmed you, night rovers speak out the reasons for your somberness.’ Sardula speaking for the moles, in faint, tremulous tone, said, ‘O Giant monarch, the mighty monkeys are incapable of being spied, we tried in vain to discover the purpose of our adversary, their might, their numbers, but Sri Rama observes his multitudinous hosts well, every trail is fortified by a colossal monkey. Hardly did I penetrate the aforesaid army and began my examination I was seized, bound, battered by the vanara hosts. Trembling, bleeding, and very nearly dead, I was lead to Sri Rama who in his mercy gave me freedom. Sri Rama has bridged the ocean with shattered mountains and rocks; he has taken up the position with his legions at the very gate of Lanka. Duly equipped with weapons and mighty army they advance menacingly to Lanka, now O my king arm yourself for the battle or surrender Sri Rama’s consort, you make a choice between your safety and the Maithili queen.’ Ravana’s earth-shattering reply to Sardula was, ‘I shall under no circumstances restore Sita, even if gods, Gandharvas, (celestial musicians), demons were to wage a war against me, or under the stress of peril from all the worlds.’ He then orders Sardula to tell him the names of all the vanara chieftains their father and their grandfather, whom he had seen in Sri Rama’s army to enable him to plan his assessment. Sardula forthwith proceeded to speak, ‘First there is Sugriva son of Rksaraja, who is tricky to overcome in an encounter, here is Jambavan son of Gadgada also referred elsewhere in the epic as a progeny of Brahma, as also Dhumra another son of Gadgada, Kesari son of Sage Brhaspathi, the preceptor of Indra, here is the valiant son of Dharma, deity presiding over righteousness, Susena, Dadhimukha son of moon god, there is the Sumukha, Durmukha and Vegadarsi undoubtedly they are Death evolved in the form of monkeys by the creator. The commander-in-chief Nila is the son of the god of fire, Hanuman son of the wind god, Angada the son of Vali and the grandson of Indra, Mainda and Dwivida offspring of Aswins who are the physicians of gods, then there are Gaja, Gavaya, Sarabha, Gavaksha and Gandamadhana the five sons of the god of retribution. Besides these chieftains there are countless numbers of belligerent, fearless, and the glorious sons of gods. There is the uncomplicated looking prince beyond compare, Sri Rama, by whom many ogres present in Janasthana was dispatched to the abode of Yama, there is virtuous prince Lakshmana falling within the range of his arrows even Indra would not survive. Here are Sweta and Jyotirmukha children of sun-god, there is Hemakuta son of Varuna, Nala the son of Viswakarma architect of gods, the distinguished Durdhara son of Vasu. Besides, there is the ogre, Vibhishana who has secured the city of Lanka as a prospective gift from Sri Rama. Thus I have described at length the entire army of Sri Rama and it is for you to take action.’(The parentage of the principal monkeys given in this Kandam will be found to differ in many cases, the pundit’s quality this incongruity to the fact that the three monkeys referred to here are different from the ones mentioned earlier)
Desperate Ogre Monarch attempts sorcery:
The infiltrators report only served to strike at the solar-plexus of the tyrant monarch; it served to stir the dread of the looming misery; his face imaged his mental tumult. He summoned his counselors for the support, thereafter deep in thoughts, now silent, he sought in the recess of his palace the company of the skilled conjurer, Vidyujjihva, he decreed to him, mesmerize Sita in his presence with a head like that of Sri Rama; together with a mighty bow and arrow. Skilled in startling magical skills, Vidyujjihva displayed to the Ogre monarch the work of dexterous sorcery that earned him an expensive prize as reward. The Lord of Lanka proceeded to the Asoka grove to confront the pale, melancholic Maithili queen, whose thoughts were engrossed on her Lord, unmindful of the lady’s distress, the ogre went on to joyously proclaim his name, he spoke cruelly to her, ‘though esteemed, and enticed by the Lankan king you fancy the prince who slaughtered the gracious Khara; today your disdainful arrogance is destroyed, your lord was killed in the battle. Listen to me Janaka’s pride, be Ravana’s principal queen, dismiss all redundant thoughts from your mind, in vain are your hopes of meeting Sri Rama; he is dead now; I will tell you how your spouse was destroyed. To fight with me your husband crossed the sea with inestimable vanara legions, after nightfall exhausted of the tough grind; unguarded; they slumbered on the northern shores; they perished when they were overwhelmed by Prahasta’s mighty forces. Prahasta’s sword first guillotined your somnolent husband, the confusion provoked Vibhishana and this only served to his being held captive of the ogre foes, Hanuman was killed by the fiend forces, Sugriva’s neck was broken, Mainda and Dwivida lie gasping with bleeding wounds, Lakshmana has fled through the forests along with him fled the other vanaras, the valiant Panasa mortally wounded is gasping for breath, Dharimukha is thrown into the ravines, struck with arrows Kumudha shrieks, fallen on the ground; sorely wounded Angada vomits blood. Pursued by the giants the monkey multitudes were crushed to death, other panic stricken monkeys resorted to their escape the way the monkeys are proficient. To escape destruction at the hands of the ogres the bears climbed the trees, thus your husband and his forces are destroyed by my army. See for yourself the ruthlessly severed head of your husband with sodden blood, despoiled with dirt.’ The giant king directed an ogress who was in audible proximity of Sita, to summon Vidyujjihva, who is to come with the gory head of slain prince Sri Rama, his bow and his shaft. Vidyujjihva, now in his presence, Ravana shouted to the sorcerer, ‘now place the head before the weeping lady’s face, let her see her dead spouse’. Ravana subsequently whispered to Sita, ‘here is the bow belonging to your Sri Rama, this is the bow renowned in all the three worlds, you now are widowed therefore give up all your hopes, forget your husband and be my principal queen.’
Sita’s wail:
Sita gazed at the head and the celebrated bow; the hue and the countenance of the head bore resemblance to that of her lord, pierced with grief she began howling, she castigated Kaikeyi for her fate, trembling all over she fell lifeless on the ground. Slowly regaining her conscious and strength, she set her eye on the head, letting go a bitter bawl she said, ‘My hero the death of a husband, a man of noble conduct, before that of a wife, a woman of a virtuous conduct, is declared to be a cataclysm, how did you meet with this unforeseen fatality? O scion of Kakutstha, do not desert me, reminisce the solemn pledge you made to me when you took my hand in yours, “I shall practice virtue with you” be faithful to your vow, take me with you. Soon Kausalya will know of the death of her sinless son, who bridged the sea to rescue me, the obloquy of my race wedded to Sri Rama, broken hearted she too will perish. O Ravana; butcher me too, let me rest beside my husband, I will close my eyes happily and go with my Sri Rama wherever he goes, O Ravana unite a husband with his wife and thus carry out the ultimate high merit.’ Even as Sita was lamenting thus a warder approached the giant monarch to convey that Prahasta accompanied by the host of counselors and ministers required audience of the monarch. Anxious despot forthwith hastened to his regal hall to meet chief and all the aristocrats for the counsel, when the tyrant left the queen the conjured head and the bow vanished. The fierce as the lord of death, ogre king decreed, ‘as our foemen is approaching the town, speedily gather our ogre hosts, without revealing the cause,’ and soon countless night rovers in battle array assembled impatient for the battle.
Sarama’s assurance:
(According to the commentators Sarama is the wife of Vibhishana): Sarama though born a rakshasa, exposed in cheerful tones the secret of the giant’s guile to the desolate Videhan princess. Said she to the Mithila queen, ‘you need not suppurate, Sri Rama is a lord of men, death is not possible for that knower of his self, even the monkeys are not capable of being killed in as much as they are protected by Sri Rama, believe me your lord; your almighty Sri Rama is not slaughtered. Let optimism dismiss your grief, a conjuring trick was played on you by the ogre monarch, Queen of fortune (Goddess Lakshmi) favorable demeanor is on you, look up and smile all is well. I have seen your Sri Rama and his inestimable vanara hosts arrayed on the southern Lankan shores; giant king’s spies bring frequently fresh news to the ogre monarch, who in turn summons his peers and lords for counsel and deliberations.’ While Sarama was talking thus, long loud and clear battle cry of the gathering armies slashed the ears. She again spoke to the Videhan princess, ‘Hear O lady, the loud alarms that call the ogre troops to combat, listen to the snorting steed, the rattling car, over the tremulous ground in the road and in the street, they push densely on like wave on wave, and the battalions meet. The Lankan troops are struck with fear, the lotus eyed Sri Rama will like Indra the sovereign of the skies, exterminate his foes, and free you from you woes. You are cherished by the fortune’s queen (Lakshmi) you will soon taste the long lost rapture, when you are embraced by the mighty arms of Sri Rama, soon the tears of ecstasy will flow from your eyes and your Lord will gain his guerdon when your head rests on his breast.’
Sarama’s expression:
Skilled in the art that soothe and please was Sarama; she now addressed the Maithili in words such as, ‘Unseen by anyone I can swiftly fly to the side of your spouse and say the words you want me to tell him and come back here rapidly too.’ Sita her articulation pale and stumpy responded, “If you are firm in your resolve to help me, go forth and find each plot and deviousness planned by the Lankan Lord. He cheats me with the arcane art, he torments me, with reproof, threat or flattery, because of this my heart is woe-filled, my senses have gone astray, and I ever fear Ravana”. Sarama in gentle words responded if that is your desire, ‘I will forthwith leave to learn the intention of your antagonist and return to your side to tell you what is planned’. Sarama sped to where the tyrant was; heard fervently all that was spoken; of the tyrant’s hopes and fears, true to her promise she swiftly returned to the Asoka grove to report to the Mahalakshmi (wife of Maha Vishnu) like lady who was longing for her return. Sarama began her truthful narration, ‘Ravana’s mother Kaikasi,beseeched her son to restore you to your mighty lord, the other nobles too alluded to the astounding feat at Janasthana reflecting the might of the hero, also they reminded of Hanuman’s exploits to impress on the tyrant monarch the prowess of your hero. In vain the counselors exhorted at length, in vain the despot’s mother wept; yet the tyrant would not unfasten you from his hold. Soon the oppressor will be exterminated by Sri Rama in combat and you will be freed from bondage.’ In the meantime was heard earth quaking noise of the on rushing vanara hosts, and that of the laid up Ravana’s forces made earth in terror rock and reel. Dismayed Ravana’s hosts thought of their ruin and cursed the Lanka’s lord.
Malyavan’s exhortation:
(Malyavan is Ravana’s maternal grandfather) The resounding noises of drum and shell served to transiently cower Ravana, but soon regaining his native pride, he sternly eyed his counselors and thundered again, ‘Lords I know your unfailing prowess in the battleground, I now have heard you speak of fierce and bold Sri Rama, who is now on Lankan shore leading his feral assortment, I ask you why when the foe is near there is the silent display of fear in you.’ His faithful guide, the sagacious and the wise maternal grandsire began his answer, ‘O monarch, peace should be made by the ruler when confronted with a superior might, or when a ruler is matched by an enemy of equal strength; in no situations should the enemy be underestimated. Now O king, the choice before you is to restore the queen for whose sake the foe has led the army to the Lankan shore, whom the celestials and the Gandharvas wish victory. Brahma the grandfather of the universe has evolved only two orders of creations, the celestial order and the devilish order, which take their stand on virtue and vice respectively. Virtue is known to be the sheet-anchor of the high souled immortals, while unrighteousness is the sheet-anchor of the ogres as well as of the demons, virtue which is exalted was struck at the root and evil embraced by you, whilst in your quest of conquest. Hence our adversaries who have embraced virtues, have renounced evil are stronger than us, nourished through your folly the python in the form of malevolence is actually going to swallow us up. They who check each worthless desire, are difficult to overcome, the very strong asceticism practiced by the sages of firm resolve are tormenting the ogres, thus the might of the ogres grows weak and faint, it is consumed by the power and might of the sages and the saints. True a boon has been secured by you from Brahma, of immunity from death at the hands of Gods demons, and yakshas, but here are the human beings monkeys’ bears and golangulas of immense prowess thundering against you. I behold numerous dreadful, multifarious portents foretelling the annihilation of all the ogres. Look at Sri Rama as human semblance of Lord Vishnu, who has come to storm the city of Lanka, for no mortal can bridge the ocean, O giant king release the Maithili queen and supplicate to Raghu for peace;’ concluded Malyavan the foremost of Ravana’s counselors.
Ravana furious:
Salutary advice tendered by Malyavan though conducive to his well-being, only served to incense Ravana, prompted by adverse fate, fiercely glancing at Malyavan he thus spoke, ‘How can you reckon this Sri Rama a mighty foe? He is banished by his father; in the trauma of his misery he seeks the assistance of the vanara hosts. Taking sides with the enemy with intent to induce fear in me you tender this noxious utterance, I am feared by the celestials and the giants, am I so frail in your eyes? I shall not fear Sri Rama; I will not restore this Lakshmi like queen of beauty to her lord, soon you will see this much boasted Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva and the vanara multitude slain by me in the combat. I am neither tremulous nor puny, Ravana will never yield or bend, I will not belie my nature. It is no awesome sight if the sea is bridged by Sri Rama, this deed need not worry you, I only know for sure that Sri Rama will not return alive, I promise this to you.’ Humiliated Malyavan heard the loud exclamations, in reverence; in humility he paid his obeisance to the king and withdrew to his abode. Ravana deliberated with his aristocracy, he made adequate arrangements to guard the city from the foes, he posted Prahasta to safeguard the eastern frontier, while southern boundary was left to the care of the fierce strong and the brave Mahodara. He entrusted the task of guarding the western boundary to his son Indrajit whilst the trusted the ogre Sukha to guard the northern borders. Having made the abovementioned arrangements enthused by the optimism of the victory he retired to his chamber.
Deliberations and preparations:
The lord of men, the vanara lords, and Vibhishana, with anxious looks eyed the town of Lanka, they said to each other, ‘Here is the city of Lanka fortified by Ravana which is difficult to conquer even by Gods, Gandharvas, Nagas and Yakshas, how shall our multitudes pass inside this secured city; overthrow the fiend monarch and recover the captive queen.’ Sage Vibhishana reacted, ‘Anala, Panasa, Sampati, and Pramati, my four ministers had assumed the appearance of birds, penetrated deep into the adversary’s territory and returned here after learning of the foeman’s commands and strategy. Sri Rama I will now reveal how Ravana’s army is positioned; Prahasta with his legions heads eastern gate; Mahodara and Mahaparswa with the rakshasa gang guard the southern portal, surrounded by countless giants guarding the western entrance is the pride, the joy and the eldest son of Ravana; Indrajit, whilst the fiend monarch has taken position at the dreaded northern entrance leading the crowd of giants who are skilled in wielding maces, swords, lances and battle axes. Ravana has chosen chiefs mighty in prowess, in virility, in energy; they abound in courage and haughtiness. The strength of the elephants and chariots is ten thousand, that of the horses is twenty thousand and the count of foot soldiers is over one crore (ten million). By this report Sri Rama I only strive to rouse your wrath I know by your valour you are capable of subduing even Gods.’ Sri Rama replied in these words, “The eastern gate will be in the care of Nila whose opponent there is Prahasta; with the troops Angada foray the southern portal, the western entrance will be won for us by the brave Hanuman with his myriad vanara hosts, the northern entrance will be assailed by Lakshmana and me for I have vowed to kill the evil tyrant who armed with the creator’s (Brahma’s ) boon he has turned to be the oppressor of the brave and the wise, he dares the Gods, he has the world quiver by his (mis)deeds. Let Sugriva the vanara king, Jambavan and Vibhishana with the vanara multitudes be stationed in the central post. Though the vanara hosts are capable of changing semblance I decree from now on when we battle the foe no vanara shall change his semblance in a human form, for in human form only seven of us will appear they are myself , my brother Lakshmana, Vibhishana and his four ogre lords.’ Having spoken thus the high souled Sri Rama having resolved upon the destruction of his foes he made up his mind to climb the Suvela Mountains.
Suvela Mountain ascended:
Sri Rama said, “This night on top of this rich in minerals Suvela Mountains, I together with the faithful sage Vibhishana, Lakshmana, Sugriva shall grasp the picture of Lanka, the abode of the ogre monarch who stole my spouse and brought me the extended distress. Here is one despicable individual who commits a sin and the entire race perishes on account of that depraved man due to his erroneous exploits.” Speaking thus Sri Rama started ascending the steep Suvela Mountains followed by Lakshmana of extra-ordinary prowess, next in place was Vibhishana, then followed by the sovereign of the vanara race, and the hundreds of vanaras marching impetuously to Suvela’s crest. They all witnessed the bright, gay and fair Lanka, also they saw the mighty ogre hosts passionate for the fight; skilled in the arts of war, arrayed behind the defensive walls and the vanaras in their turn they let go the shouts of defiance and the screams of war-cry; the lord of men stood looking on. At sun down after merrily welcoming Vibhishana, accompanied by Lakshmana and joined by troop commanders Sri Rama halted at the Suvela Mountain for the night.
Scenic Lanka:
Having slept that night on the Suvela Mountains, at dawn the next morning the vanaras were amazed at the sight of the wonderful groves and garden filled Lanka. The trees there bore lovely fragrant flowers, the woods green in all seasons; the principal garden of Lanka with the sweet breeze was lovely and delightful to the mind. The creepers there filled the air with sweet aroma, and the luscious fruits crammed branches of the trees, the humming bees, and the warbling of the cuckoos resonated in that garden. Permitted by Sugriva, some vanaras impetuously pressed onwards to Lanka, causing the earth to tremble at each step they took their shouting shook Lanka, startled birds and deer before them fled; lions, bears and buffaloes panicked and ran in all directions. Vanaras caught sight of the lofty Trikuta mountains clothed with flowers of every tinge; and on top of this sparkling gold like mountain was situated the proud Ravana’s town Lanka. In that city there existed a thousand pillar palace of the ogre monarch Ravana resembling the snow clad mount Kailasa, the mansion matching in grandeur the abode of Vishnu, this palace was guarded at all times by a hundred toughened ogres. Escorted by his army Sri Rama studied that city of Lanka adorned with rows of palaces; thriving in products of inspired brilliance, and endowed with entrances built-in with massive war locomotives.
Impetuous Sugriva attacks Ogre Lord:
On the crest of Suvela hills, Sri Rama accompanied by Sugriva and followed by the hordes of vanaras surveyed all the four quarters. They sighted Lanka on the Trikuta hills; the lovely town of varied beauty; a town designed by the architect of Gods, Viswakarma; also Sri Rama and the other chiefs looked intently on the tyrant Ravana, who stood in extravagant grandeur on top of an entrance. Seized with impetuosity occasioned by wrath, gifted with bodily strength and nerve; Sugriva leapt all at once from the mountain top; whilst on his way to the fortification he addressed the fiend king the words pouring derision and revulsion, ‘O king of the giant race, know me as the friend and slave of the lord of the world Sri Rama, by whom I am authorized, to hew you in your very fortress.’ Saying so the vanara king pounced at Ravana’s face snatched from the fiend’s head his crown and dashed it in fury to the ground. The ogre monarch responded, ‘when you were out of my sight you had a beautiful neck; now that you had come to my view you shall be deprived of your neck.’ The monster dashed straight at his rival, held him with his mighty arms, with his awesome strength swung the panting vanara lord round and dashed him to the ground. Sugriva swiftly rose to his feet and engaged the ruler of the ogres in furious fight. The fight between the two well matched in size, skill, each endowed with extraordinary courage, matchless strength, and each in fiercer mood raged for long, in the sanguinary strife there emerged no victor. They met, retreated, pursued they tried each subterfuge; yet neither emerged the winner. The ogre finding it impossible to overcome his formidable adversary, decided forthwith to summon his supernatural power, the brave vanara lord quick to know his rival’s guileful purpose, baffled fatigued Ravana leapt into the sky, and returned to the side of Sri Rama; to rejoin his battalions.
Sugriva chided; Angada the envoy:
When Sri Rama saw blood-spattered Sugriva he remarked, “Sugriva without counsel from us do not indulge in such desperate actions; kings like us do not imperil our lives thus; remember I, Vibhishana, and all of us were apprehensive of your life.” Vanara monarch responded; ‘I could not accept the sight of the ogre lord who robbed your spouse, O scion of Raghu; knowing my prowess I ventured into this deadly strife.’ Sri Rama now spoke, “Lakshmana, I perceive terrifying looming portents which promise destruction to the world, the extermination of distinguished heroes among the vanara hosts, and the ogres. Now son of Sumitra position our multitudes where the forests are rich in fruits, and water; and our hosts are in a site from where we are ready to oppose the fury of the fiend enemies. Today bounded by monkeys on all sides we should rapidly march towards the city of Lanka” saying thus Sri Rama rapidly moved down from the cliff and held a review of his own army. Having lined up the huge army of Sugriva, where every commander’s indignation was in the direction of Lankan bastion. The royal brothers led the multitudes to the Lankan fortress when Sri Rama chose the northern entrance where the mightiest of the ogre race Ravana stood with his multitudes. The eastern opening was entrusted to the valiant Nila, Mainda and Dwida, whilst Angada, Rishaba, Gavaksha, Gaja, and Gavaya blocked the southern gateway. Hanuman combined with Pramathi and Praghasa obstructed the western entry and the ruler of the vanara hosts Sugriva took up his position at the hub, Sushena for his part took up his position at the back of Sri Rama. Thus surrounded on all sides by the mighty monkeys with uprooted trees in their hands Lanka was impenetrable even for the wind. As the countless monkey troops besieged Lanka all of a sudden, the ogres gave way to gloom; when the simian troops roared the entire Lanka with its defensive walls, porticoes, mountains and forests trembled fiercely. Sri Rama recalling the duty of the king is to save the lives of his people and avoid bloodshed until milder methods has been tried; he summoned Angada to serve on Ravana a message that was brave as well as merciful. ‘Angada go and seek the presence of the monarch of the giants, speak boldly my words of warning. Tell the ogre monarch, “O conceited night ranger the period of reprisal for the sins that have been committed by you against the seers of Vedic Mantras, the Gods and the celestials and human beings has duly arrived at your doorsteps. O ogre I for my part your chastiser, wielding the rod of punishment have taken up my position firmly at the gates of Lanka, your superciliousness on account of the boon conferred upon you by Brahma is now futile. I shall liberate this world of ogres, with my arsenal if you for your part taking with you the Princess of Mithila do not seek me as a guardian. Glorious, virtuous Vibhishana is with me here, he shall attain sovereignty of Lanka without any opposition. You are unrighteous, a sinner, fools are your helpmates, take the path to gallantry get killed in combat, you will be purified consequently, in any event after been seen by me in combat you cannot return alive. Take my constructive counsel, for the benefit of your soul perform your obsequies in advance; for there will be no ogres left after you have departed to the other world. Your life is dependent on me; hence let Lanka be seen by you for one last time.” Furious Angada speedily reached Ravana who was at that time sitting in the midst of his counselors and spoke the words of Sri Rama without any subtractions, he said; ‘O king I am Angada son of Vali, I stand before you as the envoy of the Kosala king Sri Rama; I am here to convey my masters words. “I have come to warn you, you have fallen from fortune; you have been deprived of wit because of your inclination to die. Be a man, come defiantly to the battlefield display your gallantry. My arms will slay you, all your kith and kin and all your nobles’ too; thereby O tyrant the earth and the heaven will be rid of your terror, the gods and the celestials will rejoice to see you bleed to death. Upon your death Vibhishana will be anointed the king and will reign in peace; once more I advice you; avoid the fatal punishment; repent, restore with due nobility the Maithili queen to her lord, beseech pardon for your sin.” Infuriated tyrant monarch ordered, ‘seize the vanara; kill him’, four of his fiend guards apprehended Angada, who on purpose chose to submit. Angada with his mighty arms held the fiends; sprang to the roof of the palace, hurled the captive giants to the ground, smiting a fierce stroke he broke a turret on the palace roof and hurled the stony mass to the ground. Again exulting Angada leapt into the sky, ecstatic on his mission accomplished returned to where Sri Rama was. Sri Rama was keen to destroy his enemy, the monkeys endowed with virility; occupied the entire space between the defensive walls and the surrounding moat; the ogres reduced to fear raised a cry of distress.
The incursion:
The ogres conveyed to their monarch on the city having been blockaded by the vanaras; the lord of the fiends saw from the patio of his palace the serried vanara hosts commanded by the lion of the Raghu’s race; had moved to the moat. Doleful Sri Rama with loving thoughts on his spouse, looked at Lanka and said, “With fawn like eyes, oppressed by the ogresses my distressed darling lies on the cold ground; thinking and weeping for me; let the Lankan earth be dyed today with rakshasa’s blood;” he thundered. Responsive to their champion’s call the myriad vanaras crammed the water filled trenches with rocks, trees, stones and mountains. The simian ranks struggled hard to surpass one another in advancing against the enemy. Excited at their leader’s call contending with trees and mountain peaks for weapons they pushed forward furiously towards the fortifications, some in their reckless passion demolished archways, portals, towers and battlements, which came thundering to the ground. Loud was the cry, ‘Victorious is Sri Rama, of ultimate prowess, victorious is Lakshmana endowed with astonishing valor, victorious is the king Sugriva too.’ The simian chieftains led the myriad hosts from their appointed posts and many a pillar and posts fell booming to the ground. The ogre monarch commanded his troops, ‘let the gates be wide opened, let the ogre warriors charge at the intruders,’ the troops heard his voice, the wild scream rang loud and long from every martial instruments, from every gate the giants rapidly exited, there then ensued a terrible conflict between the ogres and the simian hosts. From every vanara a fierce shriek of defiance smote the welkin; earth; the deep and the firmament reverberated with the awful cry; neigh of the horses for the fray, and of the elephants. Fierce was the deadly fight, vaunting their prowess the ogres struck the monkeys with flaming maces, javelins, pikes and axes, the monkeys retaliated with mountain-tops, trees, as well as with their teeth and nails. At every blow a vanara fell, and the brandished tree and the trembling mountain brought many a giant on his knee to perish in his turn.
Duels between the ogres and the monkeys:
Brave chiefs of each opposing side tried their strength in fierce terrible single combat, the ogres sallied forward seeking the triumph of Ravana; the huge army of the monkeys longing for Sri Rama’s victory rushed towards the army of ogres. Indrajit smote Angada frenetically with his mace; the impetuous Angada snatched the very mace and broke the glorious chariot, the steeds and the charioteer collapsed on the ground. Oblivious of his gashes; wounded Sampati crushed to death the ogre Prajangha with a tree, while Hanuman struck enraged Jambumali with his palm. Sugriva spinning and hurling a huge tree killed Praghasa; one arrow from Lakshmana disposed off the great Virupaksha, and Sri Rama for his part severed the heads of the ogres Agniketu, Rashmiketu, Suptagna and Yagnakopa. On that occasion there raged a fierce and confused fight between the combatants, the trampled earth was red with gore, and streams of blood flowed rapidly bearing away dead bodies. The combat zone was strewn with spears, maces, javelins, lances, arrows, shattered chariots, broken wheels, axles, yokes; thus symbolized a frightening appearance. The fiends exasperated by the stench of blood; were desirous of nightfall, thereafter they hastily embarked on a stubborn fight; it was usually believed that the strength of the ogres gets greater than before and after nightfall.
Nocturnal fight:
After the dusk the foemen struggled, furious fight in the gloom of the night only grew fiercer, ‘say ogre or vanara, why run away, rip and slaughter; face the antagonist’ were the dreadful words of the combatants, the foe knew the other combatant by his lingo. Infatuated with rage the giants dashed at the vanaras, slaughtered and devoured them; the livid monkeys for their part tore with their teeth the horses, down went the horse, the rider, and down went giant lords of towering notoriety, the monkeys dragged the elephants; sowed confusion in the ranks of the ogre army. The battleground strewn with weapons was also rendered mucky by the flow of blood of the killed combatants. Yagnasatru, Mahaparsva, Mahodara, Vajradamstra, Suka and Sarana, the six giants roaring irately charged at Sri Rama, only to perish like moths before the flaming arrows loosened from Sri Rama’s bow. Angada pulverized Indrajit in the combat his deed won praise from the celestials, sages, as well as from Sri Rama, Lakshmana and the Vanara Lord. The fiend prince was furious at the sight of his mangled chariot, the deceased steeds and the charioteer; the ogre conjured to make himself invisible, exhibited a terrible rage, and let loose the missiles that made its impact amongst others on the sons of Raghu clan that firmly immobilized the two princes. Indrajit took recourse to a mysterious missile consisting of serpents transformed to arrows which deprived the wounded object of all sense and power of motion.
Monkeys downcast:
Sri Rama ordered the two sons of Susena, along with Nila, Angada, Sarabha, Dwivida, Hanuman, Sunaprastha, Rshabha and Rshabhaskanda the ten mighty monkeys to locate the imperceptible Indrajit. The mighty monkey chieftains sprang up in all the directions, to locate the foe that was skilled in the use of mystic weapons; their advance was frustrated by the magic skill of Indrajit who from his murky camouflage inflicted bleeding gashes on the brave vanaras. Furious Indrajit managed to inflict deep lesions on the gallant Dasaratha’s sons, and managed to enmesh the person of Sri Rama and Lakshmana with his formidable arrows and succeeded in incapacitating the valiant Ikshwaku princes and strapping them with a hopeless knot. Arrogantly the fiend prince exclaimed ‘not even mighty Indra can assail me when I choose to veil my form in battle, slaughtered by my shafts you reach the domicile of Yama.’ At last the earth’s majestic lords under the fury of arrowy tempest, enfeebled, fell vanquished onto the ground. Screaming amidst gloom, grief stricken, despondent vanaras with Hanuman as their lead, surrounded the Royal princes; now lying hopeless on the ground.
Indrajit’s (ostensible) accomplishment:
The ten mighty vanara chiefs after eager futile search of the heavens and the earth for the ogre Indrajit; on their return saw the deeply wounded heroic princes mesmerized by darts, lying motionless on the bed of arrows. The sight of the pale and motionless Ikshvaku princes, propelled the melancholic and misty eyed vanaras to the depths of despair, they stood round the noble pair, with their eyes inundated with tears. Vibhishana endowed with energy, prowess and glory, blessed with occult vision, beheld his nephew unrivalled in war and of unmatched exploits; standing in close proximity. Furious Indrajit looked at the gravely wounded princes; he exclaimed in loud tones; ‘The conceited chief dreaded by my father, whose very name made Lanka tremble, controlled by my shafts now lies lifeless.’ Reckoning Sri Rama as dead; the ogres raucously praised the ogre prince, proud of his deed the arrogant son of Ravana went to Lanka to proclaim his triumph; to cheer his father. Seeing the princes motionless, breathless, lie on the ground inert; tearful Sugriva quivered, and was livid. Vibhishana advised the vanara lord, ‘this is not the time for tears and fears; not for long the numbing magic will bind the mighty arms and the lofty minds of the Ikshvaku princes, they are not dead, they will break the spell that binds them and will be awake; this is not the time for sorrow. Clashes are mostly uncertain in nature; triumph is never assured; O gallant monkey if the stock of our good fortune is not exhausted these two rulers of men will soon cast of their swoon; do not give into faint heartedness; reassure yourself, contemplate the good of the troops which have Sri Rama as their leader. ’ Vibhishana thus calmed Sugriva’s trepidation; and instilled confidence among the vanara host. Ravana exulted at his son’s triumph; he embraced his son in affectionate hug, and heard Indrajit recounting his success tale again, the elated Ravana had it extensively proclaimed in Lanka that Sri Rama and Lakshmana had been killed in battle by Indrajit.
Maithili queen taken to the battle field:
Beset with grief the faithful vanara chiefs, armed with trees for their weapons, kept a truthful watch around the mighty Ikshvaku princes, their eyes carefully looking for the ogres in the horizon their ears suspecting even the movement of the blade of the grass to the advent of the fiend. The Lankan Lord elated, now that his nemesis is eliminated; ordered the warders to take the Maithili queen in his aerial car; show her, her deceased spouse and brother-in-law. He said, ‘lead forth the royal lady, free her from all doubts and terror, show her, her spouse’s deceased body, freed from terror her softened heart will now yield to me.’ Promptly the aerial car was brought to where the melancholic princess was; she was placed in the car, she saw for herself the devastated battle-field where vanaras lay exterminated in loads; she also saw for herself the field was thronged with fierce ogres seeming triumphant. There was the spectacle of the mournful vanaras guarding the lifeless warrior brothers, their fractured bow and the shattered mail. When the Videhan Princess saw her spouse and her valiant brother-in-law, she was smitten with grief, her eyes overflowed with tears she moaned, and sobbed.
Sita’s feelings:
On seeing her lord and the mighty Lakshmana struck down, the Mithilan dame recounted, “In the days of the yore, eminent men skilled in the art of discerning character from the features of the body, presaged, I was blessed with a life of riches; a proud empress of the lord of the earth; I should never be childless; never widowed; these words of lore are falsified now that you my lord are killed. In Janasthana you slaughtered the giant multitude; to rescue me you crossed the invincible sea, and now you fall a prey to the conjurer’s weaponry. Surely Sri Rama and Lakshmana are skilled in the use of the missiles presided over by Varuna, Indra, Agni Vayu, as also the use of the missile presided over by Brahma; how then the option of the use of these missiles were disregarded? Certainly no might, no tears, no prayers can stall the fate’s gloomy day (decree); nor could the matchless gallantry of the valiant brothers shield them from their lot. I shed tears for the Queen Kausalya who is counting each hour for Sri Rama’s return and who is now living only to see her princely sons and me return from exile.” An ogress Trijata interceded to comfort grieving Sita in words; ‘Contemplate, dear queen; your grace and virtues hold their place in my heart, though pierced with shafts and bleeding, yet the poise on the faces of the princes lingers, this to me is a sure sign of life in them has not departed, as also this aerial car, Pushpak; does not ferry a widow; heroes are not dead cheer up.’ With folded hands Sita responded “May all that you say be true”; the aerial car quickly transported the Maithili queen to her Asoka grove; where again despondency overwhelmed her.
Sri Rama’s wail:
Around the place where the mighty sons of Dasaratha fell; the vanara chief stood guard; the strong Sri Rama awoke and broke the stupor that seized him. Seeing Sumitra’s son bathed in blood, lying unconscious; poignant Sri Rama began, “What I have to do with my life after I have rescued my spouse, when I perceive exterminated Lakshmana before me. In the whole world I can never find a brother like Lakshmana, who was my true friend, guardian and guide; although I may find the best of woman like Sita. On my return to Ayodhya without Lakshmana alongside me, overwhelmed with shame I cannot greet my mothers and brothers; if truly Lakshmana is dead I too perish; destiny cannot be made ineffective by human beings. My promise to crown Vibhishana the ogre monarch will be a sham; he will now fittingly blame me an ineffective fellow. Sugriva without me you cannot conquer the ogres, you and your hosts have fought nobly with me I now order you to return to the mainland, this is my send-off to you.” Tears profusely rolling down every vanara cheek they heard Sri Rama speak; having settled all the services, with mace in his hand, and resembling a mass of collyrium taking big strides entered Vibhishana, scared vanara hosts fled the spot taking him to be Ravana’s son Indrajit.
Garuda (King of winged creatures):
On seeing the terrified vanara host fleeing, Angada answered Sugriva’s inquiry; ‘the sight of Raghu’s sons dyed with blood streams, lying on the ground riveted with shafts and the arrival of Vibhishana at that very moment is the cause for the flight of vanara hosts; as I perceive.’ Jambhavan acting on his monarch’s command halted the flight of the vanara band, and a little later sorrowful Vibhishana bewailed, ‘the mighty chiefs are immobilized by my coward nephew more in sneakiness; dishonest is the victory won by Indrajit; he could never have challenged the brave pair in open combat. While Lanka’s lord gloats in defiance, I relied on the might of the Ikswaku princes, they fought for my cause and died, I will live but not live to reign.’ Sugriva consoled Vibhishana in these words, ‘though the noble leader is now troubled, soon he will freed by the king of winged creatures (Garuda) and rising victorious he will conquer the mugger giant king; you are guaranteed the sovereignty of Lanka.’ Turning to his father-in-law Sushena, Sugriva said, ‘when the stately twosome regain their vitality and awareness, take them to Kishkinda, staying here I with my legions will eliminate the bully and his kinsmen and restore the Maithili queen to her lord.’ Sushena in response spoke thus, ‘In the days of the yore the Gods and the demons met in a fierce conflict, the demons inflicted grave injuries on the celestials, the preceptor of the Gods Brihaspati cured the tender wounds of the celestials with herbs and prayers. The herbs known by the name Sanjivakarani(bringing back to life) and Visalya (healing wounds inflicted by the arrows) still grow in plenty on the mountains Chandra and Drona lashed by the waves of the ocean of milk, the monkeys Sampati and others correctly know the mountain herbs; now let the son of wind god Hanuman proceed to fetch the herbs of wondrous influence. Meanwhile there were clouds accompanied with lightning and thunder, gales, uprooting large trees that fell headlong into the sea; all life within the water feared, crawled onto the shore and re-entered the deep. As the vanaras gazed at all this, there suddenly was the phenomenal sight of Garuda; the son of Vinata; who marked his arrival in flashy fiery luminosity. His fierce eyes bent on the Raghu’s sons who lay on the ground, his look instilled sudden dread in the serpents that bound the princes; the serpents fled; the feathered king with his wings touched the faces of the princes, his healing touch assuaged their shooting pain, closed the gashes; restored was their smooth radiant skin; their bold bright eyes were open, the princes regained their memory; their zeal, strength, and spirit restored they were on their feet. The lord of men, Sri Rama now spoke, “By your grace we are released from this fatal bond, are you my father or Aja(my grandfather), O glorious mighty being who you are? Vinata’s son replied, ‘I am Garuda, I am to be considered your guardian and ally; only I could release this noose of the serpents unleashed on you by Indrajit; who is adroit in conjurer’s skill, one who comes from the blood thirsty race. Be observant to the giant’s wiliness; they employ dishonest actions, they destroy their foes by treachery. Sri Rama you will destroy the tyrant Ravana and free Sita.’ After speaking thus Garuda vanished from the gaze, restored to confidence the vanara sentinel rang out a wild tumultuous roar nay war-cry.
Depressed Ravana dispatches Dhumraksha:
Ravana was in the midst of his advisors, when he heard the deafening clamor initiated by the vanara hosts, his morale sagged; he sought the cause, he said ‘that confrontational merry shout from every vanara throat, denote sudden poise. Though Sri Rama and his brother are bound securely by the arrowy chain unleashed by Indrajit, nevertheless the ferocious exultant hollers, disturbs my tranquil, let the envoys candidly find the cause.’ Swift returned the faithful envoys, dismayed, with pale faces, to reveal to the startled giant monarch the tidings of the battle field in words, ‘those two celebrated brothers Sri Rama and Lakshmana are seen on the battle field freed from their bonds of arrows.’ The flush of rage on tyrant’s face now gave way to the chilling fear, he exclaimed, ‘In the days gone by God bestowed as boons on Indrajit formidable and infallible arrows which was let loose on the brothers, and if my adversaries are freed from the binding clasp of the fierce venomous snakes round head and limb, I make out the entire ogre army in jeopardy. The arrows bright as inferno, by which life of my antagonist was taken away in combat have for now turned ineffective.’ Saying so he commanded brave Dhumraksha to lead the assault on the foes and slay Sri Rama and Vanara hosts, Dhumraksha after offering his due reverence to his monarch led fierce legions to combat zone. Horrifying auguries predicting peril to the ogres troubled Dhumraksha; yet the mighty and redoubtable general eager for the fight ventured forth, he moved into the arena through the western gate where Hanuman had taken up his position.
Dhumraksha annihilated:
Longing for a fight vanaras rejoiced at the picture of ogre general Dhumraksha, who set out with his legions in a show of fierce gallantry, the combat zone was in ominous commotion as the serried warriors bunged in on each other. The vanaras gifted with spontaneity; brandishing trees blocks of serrated stones and splintered rocks destroyed several of the giant foes, chariots, elephants, and horses. From the giants’ side arrived the never-ending flow of arrows that pierced in the head, chest, and sides and killed many a valiant vanara. Dhumraksha saw his routed legions, with terrific blows he struck and slaughtered the foremost of his vanara foes. Enraged Hanuman saw the mortified vanara legions turn and flee; he heaved a mighty rock at the advancing chariot of Dhumraksha, the missile coursing rapid as the wind crushed the car. The giant leapt from his vehicle, smote Hanuman on his face with his raised mace, maddened by the pain peerless Hanuman hurled a rock that plummeted on the giant’s head crushing his every limb and trampled, he was a shapeless, lifeless mass on the ground. The battered and terrified night rangers re-entered Lanka, Vayuputra though exhausted experienced joy when he was applauded by his legions.
Livid Ravana to Vajradamstra:
The doleful information of Dhumraksha’s end stirred the rage within the ogre monarch; he spoke thus to the ferocious Vajradamstra, “go ahead with the most incensed of the giant breed and slay the sons of Dasaratha and Sugriva as well.” The ogre chieftain skilled in conjuring actions, ornamented with armlets, diadem, put on a life-protecting mail mounted the glittering chariot, he set forth leading the troops comprising intrepid elephants, camels, steeds and foot soldiers of every depiction. As they ventured out from the southern gateway, they saw ominous evil portents all the way, the prophecies increasing fears in the ogres and foreboding fatality to the ogres even before they reached the theatre of war. Unmindful they engaged in corporeal clash, a fierce and long battle raged, ogres showered perpetual torrent of arrows on the simian ranks which was met with a volley of uprooted trees and mountains hurled by the monkeys at the ogres. Distracted with anger the mighty ogres skilled in the use of mystic missiles of every kind destroyed the simian ranks in the battle. There was the tremendous heart chilling sound as the vanaras flung the rocks and trees over the giants, and the ogres with spears, swords, bows and arrows rained the missiles on the vanaras. Enraged Angada began to play havoc with the hordes of fiends, as he began to hurl huge uprooted trees on his foes, who fell to the ground with smashed skulls and limbs. Under the impetuosity of Angada’s fury the huge army of the fiends violently shook on that spot; the earth on that moment was covered all over with the overthrown chariots, horses, monkeys, ogres, and elephants, with stream of blood flowing the earth presented a monstrous picture.
Vajradamstra annihilated by Angada:
The sight of the decimated ogre ranks provoked fierce Vajradamstra, he assaulted the simian defenses with showers of arrows released from his formidable bow and the monkeys too spewed hillocks and trees on the ogres, there thus developed an infuriated struggle between the belligerent troops of monkeys and ogre forces. The battle field presented a picture of headless trunks, severed arms, looped off feet, a prey for buzzards, vultures, jackals and certainly not a sight for the faint-hearted. The ferocity of Vajradamstra’s wrath made the dismayed vanara hosts seek their lord Angada for protection. Seeing the simian ranks kaput enraged Angada engaged Vajradamstra who was seated in a majestic car in a fierce encounter, the ogre chieftain deftly released shafts that perforated and rent the foeman’s body from where blood and gore flowed. Exasperated as his gashes bled Angada hurled an imposing tree at the ogre; undaunted giant with a volley of shafts shred the tree which fell harmless to the ground. Next the Vanara hurled a huge cliff at his opponent, who leapt off his chariot, before the missile devastated his chariot. After that Angada held a shattered hill, he hurled it on the fiend’s cheek, making the opponent stumble, reel and fall senseless on the ground. Bleeding ogre after a short while regained his sense and might, the ogre presently with his mace hurt the vanara on his thigh. The foemen drew closer and smote each other on the chests, brow, cheek and throat with their fists; in the deadly fight the combatants inflicted plentiful wounds in their opponents’ persons. Though greatly wounded Angada summoned his strength drew the sword and guillotined the fiend chieftain Vajradamstra who fell lifeless on the ground, causing panic in the ogre ranks. On seeing Vajradamstra killed distressed ogres, their mien downcast fled to Lanka for refuge, whilst the simian ranks honored Angada in wild ecstasy.
Ravana talks to his commander-in-chief:
(Akampana means one who could not be shaken even by the gods) Ravana said Akampana, and other ogres of horrifying competence, are difficult to overpower in the conflict, they will conquer Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sugriva as well and they should speedily go to the battle zone. Soon Akampana accepted the command; surrounded by dreadful ogres he sallied forth, an extremely terrifying conflict ensued between the ogres and the monkey hosts, who had respectively dedicated their souls to the cause of Ravana and Sri Rama. Many an evil portents were seen and heard on that occasion, portents that spelt disaster to the ogres yet the ogres marched on; the thunderous noise of the warriors who bawled at one another could be heard in the war theatre. On that occasion appalling cloud of murky grime caused by the movement of the ogres and the monkeys the land was enveloped in the obscurity, in the darkness the enraged monkeys struck monkeys and the ogres killed the ogres. The ogres with darts and iron clubs as weaponry destroyed several monkeys. Enraged Akampana cheered the intrepid fiends, and the valiant monkeys of supreme impetuosity like Kumuda, Nala, Mainda, and Dwivida inflicted terrible carnage on the ogres using trees and rocks as the missiles. The earth was soaked in blood and strewn flesh was seen everywhere.
Akampana destroyed by Hanuman:
The sight of the Rakshasa army bested by the vanaras angered Akampana; he now set out to overwhelm the monkeys with the showers of arrows released from a distance. Overwhelmed by Akampana’s fury and unable to withstand when pursued by the shafts hurled by the ogre chieftain, the monkeys without exception sought the protection of Hanuman. Under the shelter of powerful leader; Hanuman, the monkeys regained their vitality, the son of the wind-god for his part set his mind on the destruction of Akampana. Enraged Hanuman speedily pulled up a crag and hurled it at the fiend who dexterously stopped with arrows and tore it into pieces. Agitated Hanuman struck down elephants with their mahouts, car-warriors with their chariots as also the ogres who were on foot; the panicky ogres took to their heels. Perturbed Akampana inflicted wounds on the person of Hanuman, who now picked up an Aswakarna tree and hurled it on the ogre chief’s head resulting in the death of the fiend. Distressed and befuddled ogres in panic fled to Lanka, the monkeys for their part paid their homage to Hanuman and the mighty Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva and Vibhishana flattered Hanuman
Anxious Ravana to Prahasta:
Enraged, seriously alarmed and downcast was Ravana on the death of Akampana, he said, ‘I do not see any relief for the besieged Lanka; either myself or Prahasta or Kumbhakarna or Indrajit or Nikumbha can undertake such a burden. O Prahasta, death in an encounter is preferable to the death that comes as a matter of course; take charge, proceed with an army of ogres unsettle the monkeys, they are innately impulsive, disruptive and irresolute; when the moneys have fled; helpless and distressed Sri Rama and Lakshmana will then be easily decimated. For your part you give your honest suggestion disregarding my known views on the issue.’ Prahasta reacted; ‘on an earlier occasion when free exchange of belief was presented, a cogent/coherent view was the civilized restoration of Sita to her Lord, and prevention of the imminent ruinous strife. It did not find your support, heckled Vibhishana walked out. Now as expected war is thrust on us; you will see me willingly sacrifice my life for your sake in combat.’ Having made his submission, the commander-in-chief commanding a huge force of ogres in their military accoutrement; set out surrounded by Narantaka, Kumbhahanu, Mahanada and Sumanhata the four adjutants and emerged from the eastern gate braving gloomy omens promising calamitous cost to the fiends. An extremely chaotic scream and fierce clash resulted between the ogres and the vanaras, and Prahasta of perverse mind tried to force his way into the army of Sugriva seeking his destruction a la moth entering the flame.
Prahasta killed by Nila:
At Sri Rama’s behest; Vibhishana describes the on-rushing giant; leading the huge ogre army; ‘He is the heroic commander-in-chief of the ogre force, Prahasta by name; he is skilled in the use of mystic missiles; he is widely commended for his prowess.’ Calamitous was the clash, the ogres attacked the monkeys with javelins, double-edged swords, pikes, arrows sharp edged spears, maces; iron bars of various kinds and mallets, the monkeys attacked the ogres with trees, and huge mountains. Following the path of their heroes the infuriated ogres and the monkeys in the course of their clash profusely demonstrated their intrepidness; ogres exterminated vanaras and in their turn ogres were eliminated by the vanaras. Dwivida with a mountain peak struck down Narantaka; Durmukha killed Samunnatta; energetic Jambhavan accounted for Mahanada; and Tara deprived Kumhahanu of his life. His adjutants having been eliminated, Prahasta started to cause havoc among the vanaras, there then ensued rapid maneuvering of both the armies, the air was resonant; an uproar resembling the roar of a vast tempestuous sea. Dire is the conflict, never-ending is the shower of stones and arrows; provoked at the fury inflicted by the ogres; Nila the chief of the simian army; engaged in a fierce combat with Prahasta, he at first rendered the ogre chieftain powerless and thereafter crushed his opponent to destruction. His grandeur, strength, senses, as well as his life having departed, the now miserable, flabbergasted huge army of the ogres marched to the abode of their ogre monarch; a triumphant Nila was commended by Sri Rama and Lakshmana.
Despondent Ravana leads the army to the combat:
The report of Prahasta’s death beset the ogre king with angst; his mind heaving with vicious rage and smugness; Ravana now addressed the ogre leaders present; ‘The enemy who has decimated my brave warrior chief should not be viewed with disdain, I shall myself proceed to the combat zone and dye the battleground with the blood of the vanara heroes and also slay Sri Rama and Lakshmana.’ Ravana, his fiery eyeballs resembled kindled fire; he was flattered by the blasts of conches, menacing gesticulations, leonine roars, as he ascended his glorious chariot, he led the ogre militia through the city gate and viewed the vanara multitude wielding rocks and tattered trees. Belligerent Sri. Rama asked Vibhishana, “Who is at the command of this resolute army comprising valiant soldiers wielding darts, swords, spikes et al and elephants akin to huge mountains.” Vibhishana set out to describe the intrepid warriors, ‘The gigantic ogre of huge frame and coppery countenance is Akampana (different from the slain name sake), there look at the ogre wielding a majestic bow, his eyes lit with malevolent fire, he is unsurpassed by virtue of boons conferred on him by Brahma, his chariot bears the ensign of the king of beasts, he is Indrajit the son of Ravana. Yonder mounted on a chariot the ogre who is distinguished by his frame huge as a mountain, who is stretching his huge bow is the archer Atikaya, trailing him are other gallant ogres, Pishacha, Trisirasa, Kumbha, Nikumbha (different from the slain namesake) and Narantaka, amongst others; all are known for prodigious and horrifying deeds. There surrounded by poltergeists of unsightly form, whose head is sheltered by a bright canopy, stands the suzerain ogre lord wearing a crown shimmering with gold, he is the very same effulgent Ravana who humbled Indra.’ Sri Rama with Lakshmana besides him, now glimpsed his foe, he observed, “Misery lies ahead for that shameful fellow whose fate has now abandoned him to the vehemence of my lethal hate.” The ogre emperor commanded his warriors to thwart sudden or swift devastation of the desolate Lanka by Sri Rama’s competent vanara hosts. Ravana next emerged as a cataclysm charged with recklessness at the foe; he cleaved the enemy hosts in two; struck turmoil in the opponent’s ranks, he with his shafts checked and rendered harmless the uprooted hills hurled at him by Sugriva. Furious Ravana launched a lustrous arrow which pierced the person of Sugriva resulting in stupefying the latter, who fell groaning to the ground. The other chiefs like Nala, Sushena, Gaja, and Gavaksha charged at the giant king flinging in vain crags at him, the missiles were made ineffectual by the thick fleet of arrows let loose by the lord of the giants, not only that ogres’s missiles inflicted piercing wounds on the vanara lords, rendered them feeble against the oppressor’s violence, thereby forcing them to flee for Sri Rama’s cloak. Lakshmana with joined palms approached Sri Rama seeking his permission to confront the giant king; Sri Rama consented in these words; “bravely fight, this night vagrant is possessed of consummate prowess; when enraged he is difficult to tame even by the celestials; at all times protect yourself let there be perfect hand eye coordination; at all times be vigilant;” Lakshmana then sallied forth. From afar Hanuman saw Ravana’s shafts quelling the hills hurled at him by the vanaras; he with his upraised right hand hurried to confront the fiend king seated in his chariot, he said; ‘Ogre king you may have imperviousness from the death at the hands celestials, demi-gods and ogres, but you have to tremble at a vanara.’ Ravana retorted, ‘let the fight begin, this arm of mine will end your glory and your life.’ Vayuputra responded, ‘O king you know my prowess; your son Aksha was devastated by me; also recall all that I had done to Lanka.’ With his hand the giant fiercely smote Hanuman on his chest and throat, stunned by the blow Vanara wobbled for a moment; quickly regaining his composure and strength Vayuputra struck terrific blow at his dreaded foe which no living creature might defy. Sight of the giant king staggering evoked shouts of triumph and peels of laughter from the celestials and the sages, soon the giant king managed to regain his native strength and spoke, ‘well O monkey you are my laudable foe, you are praise worthy in point of nerve,’ saying so he landed a terrific blow at Vayuputra, which made Hanuman drop to the ground motionless. Considering the son of wind god distressed, Ravana the ten headed monster directed his fury at Nila (son of the God of Fire; Agni, Nila had the power of condensing and dilating his form at his choosing); the commander-in-chief of the vanara army, responded by heaving at the ogre lord a huge hill which the giant with his shafts broke the hill into smithereens and the hill fell harmless on the ground. Revived Hanuman spoke to the ogre lord who was contending with Nila, ‘Coward giant why did you disappear from the unconvincing fight with me, it would not be proper for me to attack you when you are contending with another.’ Enraged Nila sprayed on Ravana trees which were rendered harmless by Ravana’s shafts, whilst the giant shrouded the vanara lord with a tempest of arrows provoking the Vanara lord assume a condensed form and spring atop Ravans’s standard. Astounded Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Hanuman gazed Nila leap atop the giant lord’s bow and on the peak of his diadem; provoking raging fury within his foe. Utterly baffled Ravana laid on his bow an arrow charged with the missile presided over by the fire-god, he then spoke to the vanara, ‘though you are skilled in magic lore, see if your supernatural skills will defend you against the spiritual missile I hurl at you,’ saying so he let go the missile. The dart propelled by a mystic missile with its flaming head struck/burnt Nila in his chest, he fell on his knees, tainted with streams of blood, the life in the vanara was preserved only by the innate power of his father, the Fire-God. Having rendered Nila insensible Ravana turned his chariot; charged furiously towards Lakshmana, who greeted him in these words, “Leave unworthy foes, evaluate your might here before me.” Crazy with frenzy and arrogance, Ravana uttered these vain words, ‘O scion of Raghu, pleasure is mine, today snubbed by fate; slain by my arrows you shall tread the ominous corridor of the dead.’ Each warrior ceaselessly shot fleet of arrows at his foe; finding all his streams of arrows ineffectual, the ruler of the ogre kingdom, resorted to the resplendent shaft gifted to him by the self born creator, Brahma, which struck the celebrated prince on the forehead, causing him to reel under the impact for a while. Regaining his strength and poise, quickly springing to his feet, Lakshmana with one tremendous stroke he struck and broke into splinters the bow and also hurt sorely the ruler of the ogres who was bathed in blood; his limbs splattered with flesh, the ogre king swooned and recovered his composure with difficulty. The custodian of the giant flung with fury a javelin gifted to him by the self born creator at Lakshmana, even though the javelin was struck with weapons hurled at Lakshmana it grievously hurt Sumitra’s son in the chest and he fell to the ground losing his conscious and the javelin returned to its position in Ravana’s chariot. The monster despite his God given force, strove in vain to lift Lakshmana from the ground, Vayupura beheld that struggle; with rage, he rushed at the giant king, landed a mighty blow at the foe’s chest causing him to collapse and fall to the ground prostrate and senseless. To the celestials, sages, and the demons watching the combat concealed from the view, the sight of the senseless fiend monarch lying on the ground, bathed in blood was joyous, and in the meantime effortlessly Hanuman carried the gravely wounded Lakshmana to the presence of Sri Rama. Recollecting him to be an inconceivable part of Maha-Vishnu Lakshmana had his wounds healed up and regained his consciousness and felt no more the lethal pain. Greatly wounded Ravana too gained his awareness and strength, was incensed but not saddened, he laid his hand on the bow and arrow ready for the battle. Sri Rama finding the huge army of mighty vanaras struck down on the battleground set about to attack Ravana. At the instance of Hanuman Sri Rama mounted on the back of the great vanara, and on seeing Ravana he clasped his bow, twanged the bowstring and he spoke to the ogre king, “O monarch of the giants, stay put you have to pay the price in the form of death for your sin, you now have no escape no protection from the Gods, the celestials or the demons. Lakshmana who was greatly wounded by you shall prove to be the death of yourself, your sons and grandsons. Fourteen thousand weird looking ogres who took up their abode in Janasthana were wiped out by me.” The giant king seized with vicious enragement sent destructive burning arrows that inflicted wounds on Hanuman, which only served to invigorate the Vanara. Sri Rama’s dedicated darts inundated the foe’s chariot, slaughtered the charioteer, and the steeds; ogre monarch’s chariot lay in smithereens. With flaming darts Sri Rama inflicted a grave blow on Ravana’s chest leaving the ogre reel; swoon and fall on the ground, another arrow from the Ayodhya prince cracked and flung the crown off fiend monarch’s head. Sri Rama to the conquered giant whispered, “You have fought well, you have managed to slay strong vanara leaders, now you are pale, fatigued, and helpless, in this state I will not strike you nor will I butcher you. Go back to Lanka, spend this night with your life intact, come on the morrow rejuvenated, with a new chariot, bow and missiles to evaluate my prowess.” Humbled and wounded ogre monarch; his pride shattered retraced his steps back to his royal town.
Melancholic Ravana orders the ogres to awaken Kumbhakarna:
Incapacitated with fear, his self-esteem crushed, mind uneasy, the ogre monarch hurried to his golden throne with fading eyes and lowly stance. He now spoke to the assembled giants, ‘I was accepted by Indra as his peer, now all my penance is in vain; in today’s battle I was completely vanquished by Sri Rama; a mere individual. Brahma the lord of the created beings prophesied “Proud Giant, you enjoy immunity from death at the hands of the Gods, celestials, and the demons, but dread your danger from the humans.” Possibly this Sri Rama the son of emperor Dasaratha is the man foretold by the ancient king of Ayodhya; Anaranya, “Fear vile Ravana, a prince born of mine lineage shall bring ruin to you and your race.” The daughter of Kushadwaja, Vedavati, became an ascetic and was performing penance in the forest, she was offended by me; she destroyed herself by entering the fire. Before she died, Vedavati, imprecated me in words, “O depraved wretch a scion of my imperial heredity shall slaughter you and your race.” She in her later manifestation became Janaka’s child and Sri Rama’s spouse. Long-ago Nandiswara, Lord Shiva’s principal attendant, appearing in the form of monkey was reviled and laughed at by me; his imprecation was my annihilation will be by monkeys. Once in the past I lifted up and shook Mount Kailasa, the adored dwelling place of Uma; the divine consort of Lord Siva; in consequence I was cursed by the affronted Goddess. Nalakubara on behalf of Rambha the celestial nymph and Brahma on behalf of Punjikasthala another celebrated nymph uttered the curse of death to me if a woman was ravished by me. I now know the intended hour is near; the divination made by those with farsighted vision can never be conjured. Knowing this you must attempt to overpower the rival, go guard the fortifications of this town, let each gate be guarded by a committed squad; also awaken the sleeping Kumbhakarna. Kumbhakarna has lain slumbering for months, when he hears of Prahasta’s death, my defeat, and my worries and misgivings; gifted with supreme nerve he will annihilate Ikshvaku’s royal princes vanaras and all.” Troubled and tremulous obedient giants set out to colossal Kumbhakarna’s huge dwelling, they found him on a golden bed with spread out limbs; they bothered the sound asleep giant with all their might. They let go a great holler, thunderously slapped the arms, beat kettle drums, blew conches, sent leonine roars, to awaken him, while birds flying in the sky fell to the ground yet this failed to arouse the fiend. The sustained torment by the ogres served to interrupt the fiend’s sleep; he was tormented by the nuisance of hunger caused by the disruption of his sleep. The ogres for their part showed the giant the plenteous victuals; Kumbhakarna satiated his appetite, thereafter the night rangers bowed in reverence to the astonished Giant, whose bewilderment was the cause for disorder/fright. Yupaksha a minister of the ogre monarch Ravana set out to report on the serious unease confronting the ogres, ‘Hear chief of the clan, neither Gods nor the fiends rouse our fears, we tremble at the inimitable audacity of Sri Rama who along with his brother Lakshmana and the monkey hosts is all set overwhelm our citadel. Most recently Lanka was set ablaze and Prince Aksha along with his attendant combatants were killed in conflict by a huge monkey. Our king, who never ever trembled before the celestial hosts, was bested in combat, overthrown in battle by Sri Rama and his life was spared. The rancorous Sri Rama now swears to slaughter his foe who stole his queen.’ Kumbhakarna spoke, ‘I will have my retaliation, squash the vanara hosts under my feet, the ogres may feast on the slain vanaras and I will dowse my thirst with the blood of the princes and in triumph will meet the king to dispel his fear.’ Coming to know of his brother’s command, Kumbhakarna in rage looked like the god of retribution (Yama) set out to his brother’s palace, causing the earth under his feet to quake. Observing the grotesque sight of Kumbhakarna, vanara troop commanders were seized with panic, some sought refuge of Sri Rama, and some ran hither and thither, in fright some lay on the ground.
Vibhishana tells Sri Rama on Kumbhakarna:
Perceiving the prince of ogres, Kumbhakarna, adorned with a diadem, taking steps athwart space like Lord Narayana, in the form of Trivikrama; vast militia of monkeys fled in dismay. Stunned Sri Rama queried Vibhishana, “Who is this, incomparable in strength and dimension, who wears a glittering diadem, has yellowish-brown eyes; is he a devil or a monster? He is very unlike other ogres, he is a colossus, the like of him I have never seen before; the vanara warriors flee at his very sight.” Astute Vibhishana replied, ‘He is the son of Visrava, the grandson of Pulastya, and the great grandson of the lord of the created beings Brahma. (Pulastya was one of the mind born sons of Brahma).Fiery Kumbhakarna vanquished Yama and Indra; he fully routed Danavas, Yakshas, Gandharvas, Vidyadharas, Kinnaras, and Nagas. Since birth he is endowed with inimitable strength and clout. At birth he devoured thousand men, appalled and tremulous men rushed to Indra for security, the God of the Gods to save the demoralized hurled his thunderbolt, with his reel and roar the furious giant caused manifold panic; the monster responded by shredding the tusk off Airavatta and heaved the same at Indra’s chest causing distress to Indra who then along with the gods and mortals sought the realms of the God of all created beings. Brahma yielded to the pleas of the supplicants; pronounced a curse on the monster, ‘From this day on you shall sleep like the dead.’ As Kumbhakarna lay senseless, motionless, uneasy Ravana submitted to Brahma, ‘this is not the way, O Brahma to deal with your great grandson, and Pulastya’s grandson (Brahma’s son was Pulastya). You uphold your words, you fix a time for him to break his slumber and awake.’ Brahma replied, ‘six months in sleep he shall be, and he be wakeful for a day.’ In nervousness, terrified of your prowess, in his hour of need Ravana has awoken this monster to feed on the flesh of the vanara hosts; truly we see the scared monkeys flee. Let the trembling monkeys be made to believe they see only an adeptly made lifeless apparatus.’ Sri Rama spoke to Nila, “Speedily let troops armed with rocks and trees block every path and lane,” and the commander-in chief of the simian army ensured swift compliance.
Kumbhakarna appraised of the danger from Sri Rama and his simian hosts:
The inebriated giant, Kumbhakarna as he proceeded to the palace of the suzerain lord of the ogres, the earth beneath his feet wobbled, flowers were showered on his head from the houses lining the road. Escorted by the other fiends, he entered his brother’s chamber to find the ogre monarch miserable, he said, ‘O monarch, what service is required of me, what is the unexpected fright and sadness, what for have I been aroused with effort by you?’ Gratified at the sight of Kumbhakarana, Ravana his eyes now dazzling, got up from his seat, hugged his brother; in anger he spoke, ‘Unaware of the dangers that engulfed us you were asleep for a long time. Emperor Dasatatha’s son, Sri Rama with the support of the vanara hosts, have crossed the sea, have slain several of our bravest warriors, have laid siege to the city of Lanka, together they are cutting at our very roots. They monkeys have crossed the deep easily, after their arrival they converted the groves and gardens in Lanka into a sea, I do not foresee the annihilation of the monkeys nor have the monkeys at any time before been subjugated. Sri Rama has prompted enormous fear in me, I have pooped all our resources, save us O brother of extraordinary might, set out take terrible retribution, save our threatened Lanka. It is for this purpose you were awakened there is none on Earth to match your might, indeed your arms have had in the past delivered deadly blows on the Gods and demons alike, you are matchless in might.’
Kumbhakarna’s derision:
Kumbhakarna laughed aloud and made this reply, ‘O monarch, your advisors, myself, Vibhishana and all those who loved you cautioned you; you were cynical to your friends, the catastrophe that was foreseen by us has now swiftly reached you; akin to the transgression deserving eternal punishment would visit a person of sinful deeds. O great king, the prudent direction in the form of restoration of Sita to her lord was not considered by you on account of your arrogance, you loathed your antagonist; fallen from your towering domain; you stack upon yourselves the rap of adverse fate. Actions which are devoid of regard to time and place prove disastrous; like those done at an adverse time and place. The sovereign proceeding on a right path; in dialogue with his ministers takes into consideration, the method of commencing an action, the character and substance to be worked upon, the time and place of action in the event of calamity, measures to be taken beforehand and the likelihood of achievement. Monarch’s duties with reference to his enemies are after evaluating the adversary either conclusion of peace through conciliation, or acceptance of allegiance or incursion as a method of intimidation. A dutiful king concludes his obligations, in harmony with the discipline of governance; O lord of ogres a man should pursue high merit, worldly gain or sensuous pleasure at the approved time. A king should take action, only after considering the salutary advice tendered by ministers who make their living by their intelligence and know the reality of things. The advice tendered by those who desire to express their views only through impudence, and have been allowed to take their seat among the counselors are people whose mental level is in no way higher than beasts, they are those who seek huge wealth, they are the ones to be excluded, for they mar the very purpose of deliberations. Foes find out the weakness of a ruler who is led away by insightful evil minded adviser who prevails upon his master to undertake ruinous actions and such a king encounters adverse fate and is dragged down from his position of eminence. The advise tendered earlier by your consort and Vibhishana to restore Sita to her lord alone is salutary, now you do what you please.’ Enraged Ravana replied in words, ‘It is futile to reiterate the proposal that was not accepted by me earlier, either through delusion, or triteness of understanding or through dependence on my strength and competence; in the past if my deeds were muddled your reprimand now is in vain. O brother if there is in you love for me, with your prowess invalidate the malevolence that springs from my misconduct, oblige my tormented soul, my fortune is at stake.’ Kumbhakarna to calm his brother’s fury, and to put his brother’s soul at ease spoke these words; ‘O monarch, do not be despondent, this day I will annihilate your foes, be it the God of wind, deep, fire, nay even the God of death, or even if he be Indra; the God of the Gods, dispel redundant distress within you. I shall fight and eliminate the landed foes, getting infuriated I will make short work of Sri Rama with my bare hands even if he is accompanied with Indra experience today the sight of the slaughtered Sri Rama’s head brought before you. I shall sally forth for the extermination of your enemies, even if he the scion of Raghu, endure the might of my fists, he will not endure the torrents of shafts hurled with impetuosity at him, my shafts will drink the blood of Sri Rama, the battle arena will be dyed with the blood and gore of Sri Rama, Lakshmana Sugriva and other vanara hosts I shall also dispose of Hanuman the destroyer of ogres and by whom Lanka was set on fire, I will overwhelm all monkeys too. If any fear haunts you I shall forthwith drive it away just like the Sun rays disperse the darkness of the night, surely Sri Rama will be able to kill you only after killing me. Revel O King, banish agony, discharge your duties, with Sri Rama in the abode of Yama, Sita will submit to you forever from now.’
Hedonistic theory of Mahodara:
To the braggadocio of Kumbhakarna, Mahodara speaks; ‘O insolent Kumbhakarna you only speak as though the monarch is ignorant of the laws of time and place; the king is in the know of his progress as also the decline of his enemies. There is no wrong in the king who remains assiduously devoted in pursuing his cherished desire of retaining Sita in the pursuit of his sensuous pleasure, that course was also approved by us. Quest of sensuous pleasure confers satisfaction in this life itself unlike the pursuit of virtues and worldly gain that bestow merit in the other world. How will you, who are audacious, conceited, of crude intellect, as such oblivious to what is to be done under all circumstances, take on in combat single handedly Sri Rama, who massacred thousand night rovers in Janasthana? If your might alone convinces you to take on the son of emperor Dasaratha, I will point out to you the numerous ogres who fled Janasthana that fatal day live in dread of the Lord of men, Sri Rama even today. There is no created being who can match him in combat, awesome he is when enraged, he is as fierce as the God of death Yama, and he cannot be vanquished, in these circumstances dearest Kumbhakarna; your going alone to challenge the lord of men does not find my support.’ Next turning to the king, Mahodara argued, ‘O ogre monarch listen to this proposal of mine, publicly declare that the famed and mighty ogres; Dwijihwa, Samhrada, Kumbakarna, Vitadana and Mahodara have set out to destroy Raghu’s son in the battle today. Forthwith we go to the battle ground, in case we defeat the foe your task is achieved; else proclaim the scion of Raghu and Lakshmana is devoured by us. Spread the gossip through the city, bestow gifts on your attendants, and entice the now forlorn, widowed, and desolate in despair Sita with lavish gifts, she will from then on own you as her protector and submit to you.’ The hedonistic theory proposed by Mahodara is deceptive; of the three objects of human pursuit namely virtue, material gain and pleasure, virtue alone can lead to happiness.
Mahodara ticked off:
Arrogant Kumbhakarna cold-shouldered Mahodara, gazing at Ravana, he retorted, ‘O Mahodara, heroes never brag, instead without deifying themselves they finish difficult activities. Your advice would at all time appeal to kings who are cowards, who are not intelligent, yet rate themselves wise. You people are cowards, utter pleasant words, your advice has deprived Lanka of its population, emptied the coffers, destroyed the army, masquerading as friends when in fact you are his enemies, you have gathered round the king to devastate the monarchy. O glorious Lankan king I shall without doubt free you from the dangers, free you from your fears and obliterate your foes, I now set out for the combat.’ Ecstatic Ravana replied thus to derisive Kumbhakarna; ‘O dear brother, there is none equal to you in affection to me and in might you are unrivalled; Mahodara is scared of Sri Rama, he does not relish war. This is momentous period for the ogres and you were awakened from your sleep for the destruction of the enemy, duly armed proceed to the battle for the annihilation of the foes, perceiving your very form monkeys will flee and the hearts of the young Ayodhyan princes will fragment.’ The giant heard all the monarch’s words, duly decorated with ornaments, fully armed and taking on a frightening appearance he set forth with the throng of strong giant warriors, he spoke, ‘Filled with fury I shall consume monkeys, it is a fact that monkeys serve as an ornament in the urban gardens, the cause of the city being overwhelmed with monkeys are the Ikshvaku princes, I shall get rid of the scion of Raghu and Lakshmana.’ As the intelligent Kumbhakarna set out several evil portents appeared, but impelled as he was by the strength of fate, he set out majestically; beholding the foremost of the ogres, the hosts of the monkeys melted, fled in different directions, some fled some fell to the ground.
Energetic Kumbhakarna sets out to rescue the besieged troops:
In smugness giant Kumbhakarna strode out of the city, emitting a huge roar, causing the sea and the mountains to resonate, the appearance of the giant suggested that he could annihilate Yama the god of retribution, the ruler of the Gods, or even Varuna; the petrified vanara band fled. Impervious Angada when he saw his hosts flee, he said; ’O Nala, Nila, Kumudha, Gavaksha, do not be overwhelmed, the giant is no match to us, do not shame yourselves, do not flee in panic, together we can conquer him.’ Heeding the call of their prince the vanaras stood in battle array, they rained on the foe showers of rocks, trees in blossom, and these missiles made no impact on the giant foe, to the contrary only the rocks broke and the trees fell beneath his feet. The furious giant charged at the vanaras, causing jitters in their ranks, in terror vanaras to save their lives fled, some ran to the deep, some climbed the trees, whilst few sought the mountain caves and woods and others feigned death by falling to the ground. Angada spoke to his chieftains in words, ‘It is a do or die battle, there is nowhere to go, save your gallantry, shun ignominy, do not flee to save your lives, you have no place to hide.’ The panicky vanaras would have nothing of this, they would not stay to fight, prompting dismayed Angada to talk again, ‘ We have seen the mighty vanara chieftains slain in this very battle, should one matchless mighty giant scare us should we flee from the battle field to save our lives and risk disgrace?’ Wheedled by Vali’s son the vanaras cast their dread aside, and under the sway of Hanuman, Dwivida, Panasa they marched to the battle-field.
Kumbhakarna’s run into with Sri Rama and his demise:
Reminded of their bravery and their confidence restored the monkeys risked their life; resolved to carry on a fierce fight with the rocks and fallen trees as their weapons. The enraged monster whirled his awful mace around his head that struck eight thousand seven hundred among the foremost monkeys dead; the on-rushing vanaras in thirty, sixteen, twenty eight or ten were held in his arms were quickly guzzled. Dwivida the vanara lord hurled at the monster a huge mountain, the missile missed the intended target and fell on the ogre hosts killing many an ogre, horses, ruined the chariots and charioteers. Rocks trees and other missiles hurled by Hanuman at Kumbhakarna were rendered harmless by his spear; enraged Hanuman heaved a hill overpowered the monster fiercely with a deadly strike causing him to reel; bathed him in blood. The colossal giant responded with a furious strike at Vayuputra, who roared in pain, the ecstatic ogres rejoiced in loud exultant holler, while the startled monkeys seized with fear fled the arena. Nila restored confidence in his hosts; he flung a mountain at the giant who with his fists crushed the missile into a powdery mass, it harmlessly fell to the ground. Rishabha, Sarabha, Nila, Gavaksha and Gandhamadana the five chiefs of the vanara race wildly struck the huge frame of Kumbhakarna with rocks, trees, fists, and feet, these blows never hurt the monster and the giant for his part, encircled Rishabha with the arms of his hands, causing profuse bleeding from the mouth of the vanara chieftain. The ogre walloped Sarabha with his fists, Nila with his knees, slapped Gavaksha he kicked violently Gandhamadana, and all the vanara leaders fell to the ground agonized by the blows inflicted by the monster. To avenge the fall of their leaders the vanara swarm delivered ceaseless blows with their fists and knees, tooth and nail; infuriated Kumbhakarna with his mighty arms clutched the vanaras around him and gulped them all down his huge frame; some vanaras saved their lives finding their way to daylight through his nostrils and ears. Grasping his spear the infuriated prince of ogres charged at his foes, the tremulous simian ranks could neither repel him nor were they ashamed to flee, they sought shelter of the Ikshvaku prince. The grandson of Indra (Angada) moved by the sight of dispirited vanaras and also to stem the rout of the simian hosts, smote Kumbhakarna on his head with a huge crag; the intolerant ogre hurled his pike at the vanara which the vanara skillfully evaded. Vali’s son fervidly slapped the giant on the throat and chest, causing the fiend to stagger, but the fiend recovered soon to seize Angada by the wrist effortlessly swivel and smash him to the ground where Vali’s son lay comatose. The prince of the ogres next rushed towards Sugriva, the son of Rksaraja; (Sugriva’s father is Rksaraja; who sprung from the yawn of the Lord of created beings; Brahma) heaved a huge cliff and addressed Kumbhakarna in these words; ‘Your arms have achieved incredible exploits; you have devoured many a vanara, now countenance the hill that Sugriva hurls at you.’ The crag rashly discharged by Sugriva broke into pieces on hitting the monster’s chest; causing consternation amongst the simian rank’s and then began the euphoric roar from the ogres. Kumbhakarna from his upraised hand hurled a terrific spear at the vanara monarch; Hanuman caught the flying missile, knapped on his knee into two provoking elation in the simian hosts and dismay in the ogre ranks. Enraged overlord of the ogres yanked a peak from the Malaya Mountain; hurled the resistless mass to thwack Sugriva down for the count. The fiend stooped to seize the vanara overlord; held him in his armpit hurried to Lanka to display his prize. Through the skies were heard the groan of the immortals, loud rapturous shout from the Rakshasas greeted the triumph with flower petals and parched roasted grains. Sugriva gradually recaptured his energy mutilated the enemy’s ears, nose and inflicted painful lesions on the person of his captor, the ogre unable to withstand the escalating pain floored the victim hard to the ground, Sugriva unmindful of the ache, in a trice was back among his throng. The younger brother of Ravana, seized a dreadful sledge hammer for his weapon, hungry and mad with odium and wrath, desirous of blood and flesh, penetrated deep into the theatre of war, renewed the carnage; he began devouring vanaras and ogres alike, the simian ranks fled to Sri Rama for sanctuary. Valiant son of Sumira; Lakshmana, took on the mighty giant, rained showers of arrows on his person, smote him on the chest and all over the monster’s person causing profuse bleeding. The fiend addressed Lakshmana in words like these, ‘Well fought Sumitra’s son, you have in your desperate fight encountered one who has never been conquered even by Indra and the God of retribution(Yama) as well. My earnest hope is to kill Sri Rama in the battle; when Sri Rama is got rid off in this battle, the entire vanara hosts will then be destroyed; the others who are left over can fight my ominous army.’ To the prowler of the night Lakshmana, made this derisive response, ‘Indeed your might had alarmed the Gods and embarrassed Indra too; here now stands Sri Rama your mighty foe; whose ability you are unaware.’ Instantly the giant whose stride made the earth quake, sped towards the king of men; Sri Rama; Dasaratha’s distinguished son rained torrents of shafts on Kumbhakarna, inflicting lethal pain on the ogre, who dropped the weapons from his hands, and as he darted towards Sri Rama, the ogre’s mouth discharged flames mixed with cinders. Unarmed the ogre with lesions all over his person, bleeding profusely, overcome with anger, his arrogant facial appearance remained unchanged; the night prowler with his mighty hands smote to death thousand foes and devoured monkeys, bears, and ogres alike. The unruly ogre prince held a huge mountain and hurled it at Sri Rama, but Raghu’s son with his flaming arrows shattered the crag as it came, the falling debris resulted in the death of quite a few simian hosts. Attentive Lakshmana after carefully observing the fiend submitted to Sri Rama, “This intoxicated ogre who smells of blood and gore, is now unable to discriminate between friends and foes, let the monkeys and the troop commanders climb all over the ogre, demoralized by the burden of the weight of the monkeys over him the ogre will no longer be able to kill the monkeys when he is thus moving forward.” Effortlessly Kumbhakarna shook off the monkeys from his person, furious Sri Rama concluding this action of the ogre was vicious, he stretched his bow and hearing the fearful clang from his bow the ogre rushed towards the scion of Raghu. Armed with a mace Vibhishana the younger brother of Kumbhakarna scurried violently with mace in his hand to give battle to his fiend brother. On seeing his younger brother Kumbhakarna said these words to him; ‘Misfortune can never befall those who are devoted to righteousness; I tell you this truth; you alone will make for the perpetuation of the Pulastya race; you deserve protection at my hands, however when engaged in a combat my judgment is bound to be lost due to confusion; I cannot discriminate friends and foes, get out of my way soon.’ Vibhishana tears welling in his eyes, said to his brother, ‘O highly fortunate brother, O tamer of the foes, advice was tendered by me for the preservation of all the ogres, but it went unheeded by all the fiends. Consequently I came away to Sri Rama, ignorant of the merits of my actions viz. wicked/righteous.’ Exasperated at the fearful clang from the bow of Sri Rama; Kumbhakarna was greeted with words like these, “O Rakshasa lord, you are face to face with Sri Rama destroyer of the giant race, do not give in to gloom; give battle and this very hour the might of your conqueror will dispatch you to the abode of Yama.” The Champion giant responded thus, ‘Come on, you shall find in me an enemy very unlike Khara, Viradha, Kabandha, Vali, Maricha, you now have met a warrior; the terrible Kumbhakarna. My dreaded mace in the days of yore dominated the gods and the demons; the prince from the Ikshvaku race; you now prove your might against me; bloodied and defeated by me, you will be devoured by me after your manliness and prowess have been witnessed by me, O sinless combatant.’ Sri Rama from his bow let go at the braggart the plumed arrows that struck down the stately Sal trees and Vali, these darts smote in vain the mighty limbs of Kumbhakarna, but the colossal giant felt neither unease nor ache. The ogre for his part brandishing his terrible club scattered the vanara army. Sri Rama next took recourse to the missile presided over by the Wind-God, he hurled this missile with fatal accuracy against the ogre overlord; the mystic missile jettisoned the ogre’s arm that held the mace and this arm crushed the regiment of vanara army as it fell to the ground. Enraged Kumbhakarna seized a palmyra tree in his other arm and rushed at the lord of men, the Ikshvaku prince with a missile presided by the ruler of Gods (Indra) severed the ogres uplifted arm, the severed arm crushed the trees, crags, ogres and monkeys as it fell to the ground. Watching the ogre with both his arms severed, Sri Rama released from his bow two unstoppable crescent shaped arrows that chopped the giant’s legs causing deafening sound and the earth to tremble as it fell. The dismembered giant dilating his mouth raising savage cries rushed at Sri Rama, and the ruler of men filled the ogre’s mouth with shafts, and thereafter he caused with a lethal shaft unmatched in fury that flew like a tempest, unchecked by the ogre it smote the giant, with a thud the giant’s head and throat rolled to the ground. The severed head of the giant destroyed the buildings and the gates, the colossal frame of the ogre fell into the sea, causing a sudden terrific swell in the sea. Thus Kumbhakarna in his death caused joyous moments for the celestials to revel in Sri Rama’s triumph.
Kumbhakarna’s collapse; Ravana’s howling:
After Kumbhakarna’s demise, the ogres ran to their monarch to convey the harsh report from the battle zone, they said; ‘Kumbhakarna scattered the simian ranks, like the God of death, he fed on the routed simian ranks; for a while he seemed the champion. O king, he who vied with the God of retribution, fell slain to Sri Rama’s inimitable might; his dismembered limbs, his severed head, his distorted trunk, lies a bleeding mass, blocking the entry to Lanka.’ The ogre monarch swooned as he heard, he fell senseless to the ground, there was a long loud wail from Ravana’s sons, Devantaka, Narantaka, Trisira and Atikaya, and the brothers Mahodara and Mahaparswa were overwhelmed with grief. Ravana after a while regained his senses he bewailed, ‘O chief, you are famed for strength and heroism; you had in the past tamed conceited enemies; your iron frame withstood the might of Indra’s thunderbolt; you had confronted Gods and fiends, how then could a shaft from Sri Rama’s bow put an end to an unmatched giant like you? When confronted with dangers I relied on your unrivaled competence, you crushed the pride of your enemies, dumping me and all your friends why have you fled to Yama’s abode, in your death, my right arm is severed. This day the Gods and the sages will be thrilled, your demise will boost the Vanara’s pride, motivated they will scale the fortifications, fiercely they will overwhelm our city. Neither the monarchy; nor the Maithili queen, will now interest me; I will not get any pleasure from the riches and supremacy; I no longer care to live. One task to be completed now is the death to the slayer of slain Kumbhakarna, and death is the only solace to me now; overwhelmed with affliction I seek the realms of the god of death. I was sick in mind, and foolish at heart to have discarded Vibhishana’s counsel, having banished the sage advisor, who foretold my fate, I now harvest the rewards of my offence.’
Ravana’s sons and brothers proceed to the battle arena; Narantaka dies:
The evil hearted king overwhelmed with grief, bewailed pathetically on coming to know of Kumbhakarna’s death, his mind edgy, he fainted and sank. Trisiras, the three headed son of Ravana submitted, ‘Father your brave brother had fought and gave up the ghost; yes the loss is stinging, do not grieve beyond a point, stimulate yourself. You still have with you your coat of mail, an arrow, a bow, all these are gifted to you by Lord Brahma; these weapons never fail, you have a chariot drawn by a thousand asses whose thunderous roar is heard far and wide. Your expertise in combat, your nerve, your God given strength are still with you, with your unrivaled strength, unarmed you subdued the Gods and the Danava crowd. You are armed with glorious weapons, how can Raghu’s sons oppose you now? O father you stay inside your palace, I will venture out to the field of battle, root out your enemies, cherish the sight of the slain Ikswaku prince, akin to the sight at the time of massacre of Naraka at the hands of Lord Vishnu, and Sambara the demon who was overthrown in the battlefield by Indra.’ (Naraka the demon referred to here is fathered by Danava Vipracitti through Simhika. Naraka’s six other brothers were Vatapi, Namuchi, Ilwala, Srmara, Andhaka and Kalanabha. Naraka referred to here is different the Naraka slain by Lord Krishna in the Dwapara age). Impelled by adverse fate, the ogre overlord was inspired by Trisira’s bellicose assurance, so too were his other sons, Devantaka, (slayer of the gods) Narantaka, (slayer of men) Atikaya, (one of huge frame) whose war cries rent the air, with words, ‘I too will fight’ and ‘I’ and ‘I too.’ All the sons of Ravana were capable of coursing in the air, were skilled in artifice, were mighty, were notorious, in combat were able to crush the pride of the Gods, and could not be vanquished in the battlefield by the combined might of the Gods, and the celestial musicians. Intimately embracing his impressive sons decked with ornaments and enriching them with auspicious benedictions, the Giant monarch sent his sons to the combat zone together with his two brothers, Yuddhomatta (also known as Mahaparswa) and Matta (familiar as Mahodhara); the combatants incited by fate embarked on their delegated responsibilities. The champion ogres proceeded to the encounter, in the sure knowledge that either they embrace certain death or they overthrow their enemies. As the ogres set forth roaring and thundering, the earth beneath wobbled, the armed ogre leaders were confronted by the simian army armed with rocks and trees. Paranoid of the roar of the ogres the monkeys roared in return, feeling enraged at the ogre troops the monkeys armed with crags and trees explored the territory of the ogres and were intercepted by the volley of arrows hurled at them by the ogres, the confused clash that developed was dreadful. In the furious combat the monkeys pounded the fiends killing the foremost of the ogres in the battle and the giants too pierced the foremost among the monkeys with their sharp arrows, pikes, mallets, javelins, swords and lances. The battle field was swathed with crags, swords, the arena was draped with blood, and the ground littered with the remains of the crushed ogres as well as the simian hosts; the earth was difficult to tread. Even as that disorderly conflict was in progress and the monkeys were exultant and the ogres were struck down, mounted on his horse that sped swift as the wind Narantaka moved deep inside the simian defenses unmindful of his pathway littered with distorted limbs and corpses; slipping past the monkey chiefs who were all set to display their gallantry, with his effulgent spear he caused the death of countless vanaras. Narantaka overpowered everyone on the battle field, the vanara heroes could neither flee nor stand in the battlefield, his dazzling lance was like Death; the monkeys could not stand the impact of the lance. Seeing the terror stricken simian army fleeing; Sugriva commanded Angada to engage the giant in combat. Angada had with him only his nails and teeth as his weapons; on approaching Narantaka he said, ‘O giant chieftain leave those pitiful foes, direct the terrors of that deadly dart at me.’ Furious fiend launched his deadly lance at Angada; to the dismay of the giant the flaming lance after striking Angada broke into smithereens and fell harmlessly to the ground. Angada with his raised palm struck the horse of the giant resulting in the death of the horse; the furious fiend delivered a savage blow on the vanara’s head causing Vali’s son to swoon and reel for a moment, the vanara prince after quickly regaining his composure, with his fist he smote the giant on his chest leading to Narantaka’s death. This action of Angada brought joy in the mind of Sri Rama and infused dynamism in Sri Rama’s camp.
Death of Devantaka, Trisiras, Mahodara and Mahaparswa:
Incensed Devantaka, Trisira, (the sons of Ravana,) Mahodara (brother of the ogre king) all livid and eager to avenge the death of Narantaka, rushed menacingly at Angada. Attacked by all the three ogres the vanara prince waved a huge tree above his head and heaved the same at Devantaka, the ogre with his shafts slashed the well directed and rapidly approaching missile; and it fell harmless to the ground. The spew of trees and blocks of boulders hurled by Angada were neutralized by Devantaka’s club. Though assaulted by the three fearsome ogres, the stout hearted vanara prince in no way trembled, instead the impetuous monkey with his hand whacked to finish the massive elephant of Mahodara. Tearing the tusk from the head of the deceased elephant, Vali’s son darted against Devantaka and delivered a savage blow at the ogre causing the ogre to reel under the impact. The ogre regained his strength soon and rained furious blows on the vanara, he also struck the foe with his club, causing the vanara prince to fall on his knees; and he recovered quickly too. Even as the vanara prince was rising, the ogre Trisiras with three formidable arrows struck Vali’s child on the forehead, seeing Angada encircled by three formidable ogres, Hanuman and Nila rallied round the vanara prince. Nila hurled a mountain-peak at Trisiras, the astute son of Ravana, shattered the mountain peak with his honed shafts, this action enthused Devantaka, he attacked Hanuman with his mace. Hanuman for his part struck the giant with his fists repeatedly on the ogre’s head leaving the monster, the enemy of Gods; deprived of his life and he fell suddenly to the ground dead. When the enemy of the gods Devantaka, lay dead on the ground, his brother Trisiras discharged a torrent of arrows on the breasts of Nila, infuriated Mahodara mounted on an elephant let fall a hail of arrows on Nila, the commander-in-chief of the simian army was covered on all sides with a volley of arrows, thereby leaving the body powerless and inert. Regaining his consciousness impetuos Nila tore up a crag; he hurled the crag that struck the head of Mahodara, crushed by the hill distained by the gore, Mahodara fell dead to the ground. Trisiras furious at the sight of his perished uncle, got hold of his bow, with his sharpened arrows pierced Hanuman’s broad chest, Vayuputra in his turn flung a mighty peak at the ogre with his whetted arrows broke the peak into smithereens. When Trisiras raised his spear high and hurled it; the missile flew it like a meteor through the air, Hanuman at whom it was heaved with his strong hands he broke the weapon. Next Trisiras let fly the javelin, a missile of formidable aspect, at Vayuputra, the vanara lord snapped this missile too, causing rapture amongst the simian ranks. The ogre Trisiras dug his sword at the chest of Hanuman, the vanara in his turn slapped the ogre on the breast, who under the impact of the slap fell to the ground cataleptic and the ogre let the weapon slip from his hand which now came into the possession of the boisterous vanara lord. Furious Hanuman with the sword of Trisiras completely severed the three decorated with diadem heads of the night rover. The death of the mighty Trisiras was greeted with triumphant shouts from the monkey hosts and the ogre Mahaparswa was mad with rage; his eyes flashed ruthless blaze; seizing his mace the ogre set about scattering the vanara hosts. Mahaparswa was confronted by the mighty mountain like monkey, Rishaba, the ogre with his mace struck the vanara foe on the chest, the gravely wounded monkey shedding copious blood wobbled for a while. The agile monkey regained his innate strength, with his clenched fists delivered a mighty blow at the ogre, causing the ogre to fall to the ground bathed in blood. The monkey seized from the formidable foe the awful mace smote the giant, the dismayed ogre with crushed jaws, teeth and eyes fell lifeless to the ground. After the death of Mahaparswa the pounded ogre army fled for their lives leaving aside their weapons.
Athikaya killed in a fierce encounter with Lakshmana:
Athikaya the fierce ogre, who resembled the mountain peak in size, was bestowed the boon of invincibility by Brahma, he had in the past crushed the pride of the demons and the gods. On discovering his brothers and uncles struck down in combat, he flew into a vengeful rage he set out to the combat zone declared his name and pedigree. The monkey hosts on beholding the enormity of his size, thought it was slain Kumbhakarna who has sprung into life, sought the presence of Sri Rama their ultimate redeemer in misery and trepidation. The scion of Raghu beheld from afar the stunning Athikaya speeding in his chariot; Sri Rama spoke to Vibhishana thus; “Who is this colossus with leonine eyes, seated in his splendid chariot drawn by a thousand horses, with his missiles he is like lightning in the midst of dark clouds. The great bows of gold he holds adorns every side of his chariot, quivers are filled with shafts; the dazzling flag renowned from an emblem of Rahu, flung atop his standard is splashed with brilliant rays. Hanging on the sides of the car are two alluring swords, shimmering like the stars, O Vibhishana tell me about this giant, who frightens the monkey hosts.” Vibhishana replied to Sri Rama in these words, ‘this peerless chieftain is called Athikaya, son of another consort of Ravana, Dhanyamalini. He is well versed in Vedas, is also skilled in the use of mystic missiles, he is highly proficient in martial arts, he has a boon of invincibility conferred on him by Brahma the creator. The giant hosts have no fear when he is around; therefore Sri Rama let your efforts be speedily directed to the annihilation of this ogre before he destroys the vanara multitudes.’ The ogre generated violent clang when he twanged his bow, the vanaras armed with tall trees, mountains and peaks, sprang to their feet; their missiles were checked by the giant’s cascade of shafts. Further the giant in a major conflict with the vanaras inflicted grievous wounds on them; with his shafts broke the limbs of the vanara chiefs. Rushing towards Sri Rama the giant seated in his chariot roared, ‘I am the champion ogre, I do not fight commonplace opponents, I seek the most brave warrior from among your ranks to come out in the open to challenge the unsparing me in the combat.’ Sumitra’s righteous son Lakshmana pulled up a shaft from his quiver and stretched the bow string the fearsome twang caused foreboding amongst the ogre ranks. The enraged giant held a sharp pointed arrow to his bow; derisively addressed Lakshmana thus, ‘O, Lakshmana you are amateurish in revealing intrepidness, I am terrible as Death, cast away your bow, you are not trained in combat, avoid injury to you person; preserve your life, do not yield your life confronting me.’ Enthused by fury and self-assurance; Lakshmana retorted, “Stop bragging, display your expertise in the use of missiles; make yourself known in action, see this day my shafts rend your flesh and quaffing your blood. You should never underestimate me, whether I am a child or grown up, know me to be your death on the battle field.” The enraged giant heard he aimed at Lakshmana’s chest an arrow; Lakshmana with a hail of shafts cleft the missiles leaving it to fall harmless to the ground. Lakshmana for his part held a sharp pointed arrow to his bow he released the shaft to strike the ogre in his brow causing bleeding wound and torment. Athikaya said he accepted Lakshmana as his worthy foe; the fiend let a volley of shafts fitted with missiles at Lakshmana, not mystified the part incarnate of Lord Vishnu (Lakshmana) with his numerous whetted shafts deactivated the missiles hurled at him by the formidable fiend. The all powerful prince of men let go arrows charged with mystic missiles; the shafts fell fast and furious on his foe, the missiles smote the iron sheathe of the ogre prince and innocuously fell to the ground. Approaching Sumitra’s son the Wind God revealed to him, “This ogre sanctified with Brahma’s boon is clad in impassable protective covering, as such he can be killed only with a missile presided over by Brahma the creator and he is incapable of being killed with other missiles.” Lakshmana acted upon the missive of the Wind God, he placed the arrow charged with the missile presided over by Brahma, the released shaft; like the messenger of Death at terrific speed the dart headed for Ravana’s son. In vain the giant tried to check the fury of this missile, with his spear, mace, dart, sword; finally the unstoppable missile whacked the monster in his neck, the neck severed from the trunk rolled on to the earth. The night rangers turned listless after the death of their leader; sped to the safety of their monarch and the extremely delighted monkeys rejoiced at Lakshmana’s victory
Ravana nervous; apprehensive:
The grief stricken, wild and pale with fear surviving fiends looked at their fallen leaders, retreated to carry their doleful tale to their monarch who now moaned their demise in these words, ‘where are my brave, wise, daring, skilled in the art of handling missiles, Dhumraksha, Akampana, Prahasta, Kumbhakarna and Athikaya? In vain I turned around for a warrior to match Raghu’s son, however these and many other rakshasas were crushed under the vengeful might of Sri Rama, whose deadly shafts caused my gloom. I identify the heroic scion of Raghu to be Lord Narayana, certainly it is through dread of him that Lanka has its doors and the outer gates continually blocked. Now let this city, especially the abode of Sita; the Asoka grove, be well guarded, all the barracks, every entry and exit point should be checked repeatedly by you. At all times the movements of monkeys should be watched and no apathy should be shown to the advancing vanara hosts and their advance should be thwarted.’ Commanding his retinue thus, the supreme ogre lord retired to the innermost recess of his palace brooding and seething all the time of his slain son Athikaya.
Indrajit’s words of comfort and gallantry:
To his sorrowing father, fierce Indrajit uttered the following words of consolation, ‘O, King discard your apprehension, there is no one who can survive my rage, O father you will today witness with your own eyes , the sons of Dasaratha annihilated by me.’ The glorious ruler of the ogres spoke these words, ‘My son the ruler of the Gods Indra was conquered by you in the battle, you will be able to overwhelm a mortal Sri Rama.’ The ogre prince bade good-bye to the monarch, ascended his chariot loaded with missiles, impulsively rushed to the battle arena, closely trailed by the enthusiastic weapons wielding rakshasa swarm. On reaching the arena, Indrajit got down from his chariot ordered his posse to stand guard while he involved himself in the performance of austere ritual. The ogre prince worshipped the God of Fire as ordained in the scriptures. From the fire, which was set ablaze by the oblation poured into it, there appeared signs that beckoned victory to the mighty ogre prince; also it appeared the God of fire accepted the offering in person. Having propitiated the fire with offerings, all the weapons that he wielded were charged with the grace of the fire god; the missiles were also bestowed with the grace of Brahma. Having gained the goodwill of the Fire God the mighty ogre screened himself from the view of the vanara hosts. Keenly observing the night prowlers, the enraged son of Ravana said to them, ‘fight ardently with the intention of making short work of the monkeys.’ While the ogre and his followers were burning for the fight, the fiend prince turned his chariot at the foe, ominous was the battle, as rocks and trees and arrows flew, the giant let go shafts in torrents at the vanara chiefs; numerous vanara hosts were eliminated. Overwhelmed by the lances, pikes, shafts, sharp arrows, all the missiles of golden hue; charged with sacred texts, heaved by the ogres, the principal vanara hosts including Sugriva, Rishaba, Angada, Nala, Mainda, Jambhavan were incapacitated in that major conflict; struck by the missiles Hanuman wobbled. Having wounded the leaders of monkey hosts with his maces and arrows, Indrajit principally covered Sri Rama and Lakshmana too, with torrents of shafts shining like sunbeams; Ayodhyan princes could not avoid the arrowy net woven round them. Subjugated by the darts, Sri Rama spoke thus to his brother Lakshmana; “The intelligent ogre taking recourse to the missile presided over by Brahma has struck down the simian army, is now tormenting us with his sharp arrows. A method has to be visualized to track down and conquer this fiend who is blessed with the boon of invisibility conferred on him by the creator. Covering entire arena with the shower of shafts, the ogre prince has immobilized the vanara hosts, finding us unconscious he will return to the abode of our foes, and tell his father of his conquest, you remain unperturbed, suffer the pain inflicted by the hail of arrows.” Overcome by the hail of darts the Ikshvaku princes reeled and fell; the Rakshasas gazed on the fallen heroes’ predicament, raised riotous din and sped to the Lanka monarch to tell their tale.
Hummock clad with extraterrestrial herbs: (The twelve hours of the day are commonly divided into five parts each of duration two hours and twenty four minutes and are called Pratah or morning; Sangave or forenoon; Madhyahna or midday; Aparahna or afternoon; and Sayahna or evening). Seeing the Ikshvaku princes knocked cataleptic to the ground in the battlefield, the vanara troop commanders got perplexed. After observing everyone despondent Vibhishana spoke these inspirational words; ‘there are no circumstances of despondency, the valiant princes have allowed themselves to be overwhelmed by the missiles of Indrajit, they are in effect deifying the missile presided over by the creator of the universe, Brahma.’ The vanara champion Hanuman said in reply, ‘let us restore to confidence all those monkeys who are still breathing.’ In the evening Vibhishana and Hanuman each with torch in hand and treading slowly over the dead and the dying examined the war theatre, the scene was dismal; severed heads, legs, hands, fingers, and the trunks of the vanaras lay scattered around, the earth was sanguineous, everywhere was heard the cry, shriek and the groans. Myriad vanaras were slain, they saw Sugriva motionless; others thwacked down and overwhelmed in the arena were Angada, Nila, Sarabha, Gandamadana, Jambavan, and Susena. With searching eyes they saw the heroic, the aged as well as advanced in wisdom king Jambavan (son of Lord Brahma) who lay on the ground pierced by numerous shafts over his body, his strength now crumbling. Rushing to his side Vibhishana spoke to the king of bears as follows, ‘O revered Sir, we request you to speak to us if you are still animate.’ The aged monarch of the bears hardly able to converse said in the midst of groans, ‘I can hardly see you, I identify you only by your voice, has Hanuman survived?’ In response Vibhishana replied, ‘Have you forgotten the sons of Dasaratha, no concern was shown by you to Sugriva, or his heir apparent Angada, why has highest affection been obvious only to Vayuputra.’ Jambavan spoke, his voice stumbling, ‘O tiger among the ogres, yes Hanuman is dearer to me than all my noble friends, for if Vayuputra survives, he is our respite and sanguinity. To the contrary in his absence we are all dead though living.’ Clasping the feet of Jambavan, Hanuman greeted him with veneration. Cheered by the words of Hanuman Jambavan spoke as follows, ‘This is the time for exhibiting your ability, with your pluckiness you can bring cheer amongst the vanara and bear hosts, you dispel their fears, save the noble sons of the Raghu race; and heal their wounds inflicted by the steel shafts. After crossing the sea proceed to the Himalaya Mountains, where you will see the golden in hue Rshaba Mountains; from atop this peak you will see the Mount Kailasa. Amidst these two crests you will glimpse an enthralling peak clothed on his sides above and below with rarest of herbs. On top of this summit there grows four superlative plants that twinkle; these plants are; (a) capable of restoring to life the dead, (Mrtasanjivini) (b) capable of extracting weapons and healing the wounds on the person; (Visalayakarani); (c) restoring the body to the original tinge, Suvarnakarni; (d) capable of joining severed limbs and fractured bones, (Sandhani); O Vayuputra; bring these herbs and save us.’ After the lord of the bears completed, Hanuman paid his obeisance to the sea-god, he sprang through the air, soared past the sea, he speedily flew nearer to the snow clad Himalayan Mountains that was adorned with golden crests, soon he beheld the holy and extensive hermitages frequented by celestials and sages. The son of wind-god observed the exceptional mountain Rshaba rich in medicinal herbs immaculate in extraordinary glitter. Enthralled by the wonderful spectacle, he began the search for the healing herbs, he sauntered the crests but the herbs recognizing the seeker in Vayuputra vanished from the vanara’s sight, this action motivated Hanuman to declare, ‘despicable is your action, you have no mercy for Raghu’s sons, O lord of mountains, overwhelmed by my arms I shall today devastate you.’ Intensely grasping the mountain with his huge arms he uprooted the huge hill with all the life it put up with, he rapidly coursed in the air with the hill, he traced his way back and was soon in the midst of simian ranks. Inhaling the wondrous aromatic herbs the dwellers of the woods and the rulers of men regained new verve, they were freed from the wounds and pain inflicted by the darts, the dead and dying vanaras were healed, they now rose as though awake from slumber. From the time the monkeys and the ogres began to fight those ogres killed in combat were under the orders of Ravana were cast off into the sea; the ogre monarch did not want to divulge the count of fiends killed in combat. Vayuputra endowed with incredible speed thereafter restored the hill to the Himalaya Mountains, and joined Sri Rama again
The terrible conflict:
Sugriva the lord of the monkeys spoke thus to the vanara hosts; ‘let us swiftly overwhelm Lanka; after the demise of Kumbhakarna and other youthful princes; the lone survivor now is Indrajit the intrepid son of the ogre lord, surely Ravana’s resistance will collapse.’ Heeding the call of the vanara sovereign the simian hosts carrying flaming torches in hand rushed towards Lanka’s towers, the scared ogre warders abandoned their posts, and the vanara multitude let go the hostile flames devour the pompous citadels, temples, fortresses; down came the picturesque dwellings, the ornamented porches et al desecrated by the sizzling flames. In the midst of howling, wails and shrieks; terror stricken giants rushed out through the flames dragging their mistresses with the babes clasping to their mother’s breasts. The patio shimmered with bizarre light, unusual glower was flung on dwindling wood, heated boulder, startled crane and peacock squealed; elephants and stallions were freed from burning booths; annoyed by the vibrant blaze they fled wildly through the streets. From entrance to gateway, from deck to the top of the structure, from protrusion to cliff and inlet; pompous Lanka was a picture of conflagration; blinded by heat and flame. Shouts of shriek, growl, and holler emanating from the charging mighty ogres counterbalanced by the raiding vanaras reverberated through the Lankan ambience. Not bewildered; completely healed of the wounds, Sri Rama with his famed bow in hand, viewed his rival, his twang from the bow let go a terrific clang, the released shafts from that bow caused the doorway of Lanka crumble to the ground. The monkeys with flaming torches in hand took up position at the entrance to the Lanka; furious Ravana sent forth two of his finest warriors Nikumbha and Kumbha, who sallied forth for the encounter letting go leonine roars. Also commanded by Ravana the other ogres Yupaksha, Sonitaksha, Prajangha, Kampana too sallied forth, there arose a fearful struggle between the monkeys and the ogres in which arms were ducked, weapons were dug into the protective covering, lances, fists, pikes swords and spears were used as weapons; in the battle ogres killed the monkeys and monkeys killed the ogres.
Ogres Kamapana, Prajanga Sonitaksha, Yupaksha and Kumbha killed:
As that horrendous battle was in progress, furious Kampana inflicted awful wounds on Angada; and the vanara prince rapidly recovered and killed Kampana by chucking a mountain at him. Stung by Kampana’s death irate ogre Sonitaksha charged at and wounded Vali’s son with his weapons, the vanara prince reciprocated by crushing the ogre’s formidable bow, chariot and arrows. Accompanied by Prajangha mighty ogre Yupaksha and Sonitaksha assailed Angada; to release the pressure on the vanara prince, his nephews Mainda and Dwivida took up positions besides their maternal uncle and there ensued an hair-raising momentous conflict between the vanaras and the ogres; resulting in casualities on both sides. In the desperate conflict the valiant ogre Prajanga was killed by Angada. The courageous Dwivida tore Sonitaksha in the face with his nails, after hurling him to the ground crushed the ogre Sonitaksha dead, enraged Mainda pressed Yupaksha in his arms resulting in the death of the ogre Yupaksha. Seizing hold of his bow the prince of archers Kumbha the son of Kumbhakarna restored to confidence the downcast ogre hosts; he set out to conquer Dwivida and Mainda in the field of battle; he inflicted wounds on prince Angada, seeing the son of Vali anguished Sri Rama dispatched vanara hosts commanded by Jambavan to counter the ogre Kumbha; but the simian hosts were no match to the gallantry of Kumbha; the dauntless son of Kumbhakarna. The celebrated suzerain Vanara lord Sugriva in a jiffy leapt onto the chariot of Kumbha snatched the ogre’s bow and dismounted the car, he irately spoke to the ogre; ‘You have exhibited your skills in the use of mystic missiles, also with your prowess you have made short work of champion monkeys; you now have to contend with me.’ In the protracted combat that ensued between the mighty Kumbha and the vanara lord Sugriva, vanara monarch emerged triumphant; he annihilated the ogre Kumbha and instilled panic in the surviving ogre ranks.
Hanuman Kills Nikumbha:
The sight of the slain elder brother, Kumbha, provoked unmatched wrath in Nikumbha; he was fiery; his weapons and the adorned ornaments glowed like the flames; his rage seemed the fuel, he wore the look of unassailable; neither the monkeys nor the ogres dared to confront him. Mighty Hanuman stood in front of the ogre Nikumbha baring his bosom, the ogre in response struck the vanara in his chest with his club. This blow did not shake the vanara lord, however the weapon broke into smithereens; a blow by Hanuman on the chest of Nikumbha, split his protective covering and also caused flow of blood from his chest. The staggering ogre quickly recovered; he carried away Hanuman to the delight of the inhabitants of Lanka. Hanuman quickly detached himself from the clutches of the ogre and with impetuosity Vayuputra struck Nikumbha to the ground tormented him to death much to the delight of simian hosts, and fear seized possession of the ogre ranks.
Makaraksha sets out:
The report of Kumbha and Nikhumbha having been killed overwhelmed Ravana, he commanded Makaraksha (the crocodile-eyed) son of Khara to proceed to the arena with an army and annihilate the two brothers and the dwellers of woods. After due obeisance to his monarch, Makaraksha and the other valiant ogres overlooked the evil portents confronting them marched on to the theatre of war.
Sri Rama Kills Makarsha:
There ensued a hysterical encounter of the monkeys with the prowlers of the night, wherein the monkeys were wounded badly, and fear stricken they fled for their lives; the ogres assumed triumph and roared. Sri Rama intercepted the ogres with a hail of shafts; provoked Makaraksha howled at Sri Rama, ‘O evil minded scion of Raghu, you killed my father in the Dandaka forest, at that time you were not seen by me in that large forest. You have now caught my sight here, through the recklessness of my arrows you will reach the realm of the ruler of the departed; Yama. Let our assessment of might begin on the arena with mystic missiles, or maces or arms or any other weapons which you have in your ownership.’ Emperor Dasaratha’s son retorted; “O sinful ogre conquest cannot be attained by sheer force of speech, sans encounter. In the Dandaka forest fourteen thousand ogres as also your father Khara, Trisiras, Dusana were killed by me and today you too will be killed by me.” Soon a hair rising encounter followed, Gods, celestials, asuras, danavas and others gathered to witness that exceptional conflict. Enraged Sri Rama in the course of that conflict shred the ogre’s bow, immobilized the charioteer, and destroyed the chariot and the horses. The ogre standing on the ground hurled at the prince of men the flaming pike bequeathed to him by the God of destruction, Rudra; Sri Rama with his arrows smashed to smithereens this pike and it landed on the ground like a massive meteor. Thereafter Sri Rama hurled at the night stalker a dart fitted with a mystic projectile presided by the Fire God, the mystic missile smashed Makaraksha’s heart to leave the ogre dead. The Gods, celestials and others rejoiced at this triumph whilst the ogre ranks fled in panic to Lanka.
Commanded by Ravana; Indrajit takes the field:
The ogre lord Ravana spoke to his eldest son Indrajit, ‘In battle you have subjugated Indra; the ruler of gods; now by all means you kill the two heroic princes Sri Rama and Lakshmana on spotting them in the battlefield.’ Thus enjoined by the ogre monarch, the prince poured oblations into the sacred fire, he swanked thus, ‘I well rid the earth of monkeys, and I will make short work of the two mortal princes and bring delight to my father,’ he made himself invisible and thereafter rushed irately into the combat. The ogre prince by trickery brought about obscurity accompanied by smolder; the horizon was swathed in darkness; even though the two Ayodhyan princes covered the sky with streams of arrows charged with supernatural missiles they were rendered ineffectual/harmless. The ogre prince while remaining invisible in the sky killed the vanaras in hundreds with his spot on shafts, besides injuring the two sons of Dasaratha. Provoked Lakshmana sought to use the mystic missile presided by Brahma which idea did not find support with Sri Rama. Sri Rama’s view was, “To finish one delinquent, you ought not to exterminate all the ogres on the surface of the earth. I will make an earnest effort for the annihilation of Indrajit alone, together we shall press into service mystic missiles and once this ogre skilled in conjuring tricks is traced our vanara commanders will kill him.” This being Sri Rama’s intent he began to reflect on the means of putting an end to the cruel ogre Indrajit swiftly; even as Sri Rama was thoughtful Indrajit re-entered the city.
Indrajit slays an image of Sita:
Remembering the destruction of the mighty ogres Indrajit immediately ventured to the arena, he saw the gallant sons of Dasaratha ready for the encounter; the ogre for his part used the occasion to divulge his expertise in deception. His chariot now had an image of wailing and weeping Sita by his side; he seized the lovely icon by the hair and cut it down with his sword, in the full view of enraged Hanuman and other vanara hosts. The consort of Sri Rama being tormented in this manner; angry Hanuman rebuked the ogre in these words; ‘O evil minded, brutal, immoral, rascal of evil expertise, O ruthless ogre, after death you will end up in the condemned company of the lot that befalls the killers of women.’ The simian hosts with weapons like trees and rocks furiously rushed towards the ogre ranks only to be repulsed by Indrajit, the ogre prince thereafter taunted Hanuman in words like these; ‘O monkey that which causes annoyance to one’s enemies wants; must be done, I shall now eliminate yourself, Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva and the unworthy Vibhishana.’ Evil minded ogre prince exulted at the very sight of the melancholic vanaras.
Indrajit proceeds to Nikumbhila:
Overwhelmed with fear, downcast monkeys fleeing the arena were restored to confidence by Hanuman and there followed a furious conflict. In the course of that fierce encounter a huge rock hurled at Indrajit was deftly avoided by the ogre prince resulting in this missile crushing the ogres occasioned by its fall in their midst. The ogre army led by the Indrajit struck back with rage causing causalities in the vanara ranks. Hanuman while keeping the hostile army away spoke to his troops, ‘Since Sri Rama’s spouse, for whose rescue we are engaged in this war has been killed, we shall make this fact known to Sri Rama and to Sugriva and thereafter do as directed,’ so saying Vayuputra retreated. Seeing Hanuman withdraw, the spiteful Indrajit proceeded to Nikhumbhila to decant oblations into the sacred fire as ordained in the scriptures; to propitiate the Gods.
Sri Rama dismayed; Lakshmana’s contrary outlook:
(Invalidating the existence of superior and adverse fate prompted by good and evil acts in that order, was apparently given by Lakshmana in a frame of mind when he was annoyed on seeing depressed Sri Rama.) Even as Jambavan proceeded with his army to support Hanuman on the instruction of Sri Rama; he was intercepted by the flustered Hanuman to retreat and seek the presence of Sri Rama. To Sri Rama Hanuman made this submission, ‘I am dazed, I saw in the combat zone a howling Sita killed by Indrajit.’ The protector of men swooned on hearing this; the congregated vanaras hastened to douse his anguish. Ill at ease Lakshmana with his arms encircling Sri Rama uttered the following, “I venture to say the belief that virtue (righteousness) alone thrives is not warranted, for virtue cannot save you from reverses, it is not the cause of happiness, it had not saved you from adversity, therefore I conclude virtue is useless. Had unrighteousness been effective the ogre monarch should have descended to the hell; he should never had been free from calamity; he should have been burdened with suffering and never rewarded with joy. If a good destiny existed stimulated by virtuous acts no evil should ever accrue to you, for you are an embodiment of righteous living. My view is that if the righteous path is feeble and ineffective, then the righteous path (virtue) requires the help of force; in that event virtue which lacks strength should not be practiced. By the force of dishonesty your father was disunited from you, as he had not redeemed the announcement made regarding installing you as prince regent, you too were bound by that message; instead you advocated that course; you took to exile only for redeeming the truthfulness of your father. O noble brother virtue destroys enemies only when integrated with something other than virtue; a wise man takes recourse to all means; the other day when you spurned sovereignty, the very roots of Dharma (Kshatriya) were severed by you. Renouncing wealth and comfort is a sin; only when a man is virile riches abound in him, friends gather around him, he is recognized as bold, brilliant, brainy, and privileged. O ruler of men, charm and aesthetic pleasure, pride, virtue, anger, control of mind and sense become effective only through wealth, I cannot fathom the resolve which made you forfeit everything that was yours. Faithful to the pledge of your father you chose exile, O heroic prince now your spouse who is dearer to you is borne away by Ravana the ogre. O long armed sinless prince recognize yourself to be Supreme, I spoke thus only to convey my ire at Videhan princess’ insecurity, I shall now set out with my arrows and destroy Lanka along with Ravana”
Vibhishana assures Sita’s security:
Vibhishana on his arrival at the place noticed Lakshmana in gloom and the other vanaras at the spot in tears; he saw the high-souled Sri Rama lay in Lakshmana’s lap. He heard from Lakshmana, “On hearing from Hanuman that Sita was killed by Indrajit Sri Rama has plunged into this blackout.” Vibhishana reacted thus, ‘Spiteful Ravana would never cause the death of Sita, and the ogre Indrajit has deceived the monkeys by slaying an illusory image of the living Videhan princess, with intent to distract the vanaras. The ogre has gone to undertake a sacrificial performance to Nikumbhila in the belief the disoriented monkeys will cause no hindrance to his completing the ritual in entirety. Now shun this false grief O Lakshmana, proceed to Nikumbhila with an army; successfully foil Indrajit’s ritual, deny him the enormous strength that accrues to him upon the completion of the ceremony.”
Vibhishana insists Lakshmana arrives at Nikumbhila:
Vibhishana repeats when asked by anxious Sri Rama, ‘O lord of men; cast away this useless anxiety which only enhances the joy of the foes; instead let zeal be the option in the annihilation of the ogre forces and rescue of Sita. Let Lakshmana with a massive army engage Indrajit in the sanctuary of Nikumbhila in an encounter, before the fiend prince concludes his ritual. In the event we engage the fiend prince after he finished the ceremony undertaken by him we are all deemed to be killed by him. A boon has been granted in his favor by Brahma; ‘The boon granted by Brahma was that at the conclusion of the pouring of oblations into the sacrificial fire by Indrajit, the ogre would be given from the God of Fire a chariot drawn by horses coursing at his will as well as the mystic missile know by the name Brahmasira; by virtue of that mystic missile he would remain immune to death. Also it was ordained that enemy of yours who strikes you while you have not reached Nikumbhila, or while you have not yet propitiated the fire, will prove to be the cause of your death.’ O Sri Rama, ‘Lakshmana is endowed with astonishing might, let him proceed and complete the destruction of Indrajit, the destruction of Indrajit signals the death of Ravana; that is the might of the ogre prince.’ Mindful of the efficacy of the trickery of the ogre Sri Rama asked Lakshmana; to take the army of Sugriva; accompanied by the troop commanders like Jambavan, Hanuman and also Vibhishana to make short work of the ogre. Lakshmana after due obeisance to Sri Rama hastened to the Nikumbhila sanctuary to make short work of Indrajit. The mighty Ayodhyan prince penetrated the varied army of the ogres to cause havoc.
Hanuman’s mayhem; dares Indrajit:
Vibhishana advised Lakshmana, ‘O Laksmana let the army of the ogres be quickly overthrown in the battle by the vanaras; thereafter the fiend Indrajit would be visible and you can prevent the ogre from carrying out this sacrificial undertaking.’ Responding to Vibhishana’s advice, Lakshmana assailed the ogre army with a hail of shafts, the vanaras and the bears attacked the fiends with trees and rocks resulting in the deaths of the combatants on both sides. Concerned over his own forces being dismayed, even as the started ritual was unfinished Indrajit mounted his chariot, the sight of the all powerful ogre prince instilled verve in the ogre force. Hanuman wielding a huge tree caused mayhem in the ogre ranks, thus prompting Indrajit to personally take on the Vayuputra, the enraged Vanara lord told the ogre prince, ‘O evil minded son of Ravana having met me in the arena you shall not be able to return alive, if you can withstand me in a duel you can account yourself as the foremost ogre.’ Vibhishana said to Lakshmana, ‘the ogre is now seeking to make short work of Hanuman, you repulse the enemy.’ For his part Lakshmana gazed at that formidable ogre seated in the chariot.
Vibhishana replies to Indrajit’s taunts:
Vibhishana escorted Lakshmana to a thicket; showed him the place where Indrajit was to make offerings to the deity, he also showed to Lakshmana the banyan tree at the place; Lakshmana was also told of the importance of destroying Indrajit with his chariot, horses and the charioteer even before the ogre prince reached the banyan tree. According urgency to Vibhishana’s words Lakshmana stood nearby and twanged his bow, which vibration caused Indrajit’s instant presence at the spot; the ogre prince was unsettled to see his uncle there. Indrajit taunted Vibhishana in these words, ‘O perverse individual, you have abandoned your kinfolk, you offer your services to the enemy, you do not distinguish the difference between living with your family members and aliens, O vile one you are devoid of virtues. Though born in the race of Pulastya, you being the brother of my father and thus I am your son, you lack the pride of birth, you are devoid of affinity, there is no affability; you abhor piety, you are the archetype of unrighteousness; what makes you bear this hostility to me? By all reckoning one’s own relations are preferable to a stranger; a stranger is always a stranger; the heartlessness of the kind shown by you in pointing out my vulnerable location to Lakshmana can only be shown by you, a reprobate.’ Thus derided Vibhishana replied his nephew in these words, ‘O depraved son of Ravana give up cruel expressions, you are aware of my temperament, I take no pleasure in brutality, I am honest, how then can I be exiled even if my outlook is far removed from my kindred? The evil minded monarch is intent on seizing other’s assets, is exceedingly doubtful of sincere well wishers, to live with him is like dwelling in an abode in flames, the evil minded monarch had decisively taken the path to destruction. My brother; who is also your father has been abandoned by me because of his superciliousness, petulance, obstinacy, as also for the terrible slaughter of the sages and the war on Gods. O vile ogre; you are conceited, ill mannered, foolish, you now are caught in the noose of death, you cannot reach the banyan tree, after attacking the scion of Kakutstha, you will achieve the purpose of Gods, by reaching the abode of the God of retribution Yama’
Indrajit ridicules Lakshmana:
Vibhishana’s reply served to infuriate Indrajit; Ravana’s son rebuked Lakshmana in words such as, ‘In the course of the battle that night you two brothers along with your other leading warriors were laid low by me, evidently you now prefer to take the pathway to the abode of the God of retribution. O prince you are a Kshatriya (warrior clan) only in name, the arrows released by me will allow brainless Rama see you destroyed by me; further the jackals, hawks vultures etc will feed on your mortal remains.’ Provoked Lakshmana responded to the ogre prince’s empty boast in these words, “O evil minded ogre remaining invisible in the battle arena is the path taken by the bandits, I now stand before you, exhibit your prowess; stop having illusions about your triumph. Stop bragging; let your executed actions speak instead of barren words.” There followed a dreadful and tumultuous combat between the lion among men and the lion among the ogres, in the course of that combat Lakshmana with his shafts shattered the heavy golden protective covering of Indrajit the shattered pieces fell in the interior of the chariot. Stirred to anger the ogre prince with his arrows crushed the mighty and celestial armor of Lakshmana, two warriors endured lacerated wounds in their person, yet neither of them retreated nor were they devastated nor were they exhausted; both were determined to triumph over the other. The unrelenting fierce, frenzied encounter continued for a long while, in the interim Vibhishana took up position with a view to stimulate Lakshmana.
Vibhishana’s directions to vanara commanders:
Vibhishana took up his position in the van, he let loose the shafts from his bow, the shafts inflicted casualties in the ogre hosts he told the vanara commanders, once Indrajit and the ogre army is destroyed the remainder of the army is deemed to be smashed. He continued, ‘Having destroyed several ogre chiefs for the sake of Sri Rama; even as I wish to kill my brother’s son; tears cloud my view, O vanaras destroy Indrajit’s hosts,’ prompted in these words Vanara hosts began to valiantly strike the ogres causing a shrill roar and fanatical struggle. Enraged Hanuman made Lakshmana to get off his back to exterminate ogres in thousands; there was the fierce encounter between Vibhishana and Indrajit; when the ogre prince saw Lakshmana he turned his ire towards Lakshmana leading to an exhausting encounter between the two. Lakshmana with his shafts pierced the horses bonded to Indrajit’s chariot, with another shaft he killed the charioteer, and also wounded Indrajit, leaving the ogre prince despondent. Seeing the ogre prince despondent the simian troops attacked Indrajit’s chariot and killed the horses yoked to the chariot, ogre Indrajit got off the chariot and continued to confront Lakshmana with his missiles.
In the furious encounter Lakshmana slays Indrajit:
The horses of his chariot been killed; there developed a furious encounter involving the forces owing allegiance to the ogre prince the one lead by Lakshmana. Cheering the ogres Indrajit spoke as follows, ‘in the existing darkness it is difficult to establish to which side the warrior belongs, you ogre forces strive to mystify the monkeys so as not to engage nor follow me; in the meanwhile I shall return to the frontline in another chariot.’ Incited by adverse fate Indrajit returned to the arena in chariot with a new charioteer and drawn by swift footed horses. The sight of Indrajit in a new chariot puzzled Vibhishana, Lakshmana and the monkey forces; the ogre vigorously attacked the vanara hosts who hurried to Lakshmana for shelter. Provoked by the fight back Lakshmana with his shafts sliced the ogre’s bow and also pierced the bosom of Indrajit with his arrows; the ogre in his turn let go a hail of shafts at the prince of Kakutstha to display his competence. Swayed by wrath Lakshmana with his missiles lobbed off the head of Indrajit’s charioteer and unsettled the horses yoked to the chariot with his shafts, both Lakshmana and Indrajit struck each other with their arrows, both the heroes were smeared with blood all over their person. Exasperated Indrajit struck Vibhishana with his shafts; in retaliation Vibhishana with his mace struck down the horses yoked to the chariot of the ogre, the son of ogre monarch hurled his javelin at his uncle which was intercepted and rendered harmless by Lakshmana. Lakshmana and Indrajit hurled several mystic missiles at each other and each effectively defused the missile hurled at them; the celestials watched the contest, that hair rising conflict was accompanied by appalling bawls. Fixing a missile presided over by the ruler of Gods, Indra; Lakshmana offered this prayer to the deity presiding over the arrow, “If Sri Rama, son of Dasaratha, has set his thoughts on righteousness, is truthful to his promise, is without a rival in proficiency; make short work of Indrajit (sloka 69).” Saying so the scion of Kakutsa released the arrow which went straight to the target, severed the head of the ogre, Indrajit now lay dead on the earth bathed in blood, with the head severed from his shoulders. The vanara hosts, Vibhishana and the celestials let go shouts of triumph; the bemused ogre army after the death of Indrajit panicked and fled in their hundreds; in different directions; the chiefs of the monkey throng rejoiced. Lakshmana was felicitated, by Vibhishana, Hanuman, Jambavan and Sri Rama.
Sri Rama thrilled to hear Indrajit’s demise:
Lakshmana returned together with Hanuman, Jambavan and all the monkey commanders from the combat zone to where Sri Rama and Sugriva were; enthusiastic Vibhishana reported to Sri Rama the grisly end of Indrajit at the hands of Lakshmana. Ecstatic Sri Rama placed Lakshmana in his lap restored him to composure, and spoke these words, “Well done, know it for certain in the death of Indrajit, the right arm of merciless ogre monarch is severed. O Lakshmana indeed Indrajit was the sheet anchor of Ravana, incredible feat was performed by Vibhishana, Hanuman, and all others in the course of battle that lasted three days and three nights. Enraged, tormented at the demise of his eldest son; Ravana will sally forth with his huge army, with you Lakshmana as my shield neither Sita nor the world will be difficult for me to conquer.” Approaching Susena Sri Rama spoke to him words like these, “Treat Lakshmana so that he may be rid of pain caused by the penetrated arrows, may he be wholly cured; likewise Vibhishana and all other gallant bears and monkeys be healed by you with all care.” Susena administered a superior medication to Lakshmana and he was instantly cured; in the same manner Vibhishana and other vanara warriors were instantly cured. Brought back to normal state Lakshmana was active and free from torment, the moment was utilized by the troops to celebrate and applaud the accomplishment of Lakshmana
Anguished Ravana determined to kill Sita:
Ravana had a long drawn-out blackout on hearing Indrajit’s demise, when he regained consciousness; his afflicted anguished mind was unfocused; his bewail, ‘O Indrajit! After my death my obsequies ought to have been performed by you, by proceeding to the abode of Yama, you have deserted me, even as Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sugriva are all living. Today you have been subjected to the depredation of TIME, you have taken the path of noble warriors, you are killed for the cause of your lord; you have reached heaven. In Indrajit’s death, celestial hosts, the seers of Vedic Manthras will repose comfortably; devoid of you, to me the heaven, the earth and the intermediate regions appear depressing, where have you gone why did you leave me .’ Ravana by nature ever irascible and scorching, he has fallen a prey to rage; irate, afflicted with the death of his son, overcome with anger he resolved to slay Sita. Keen to unite the ogres in the field of battle he spoke to them as follows, ‘As a reward for the painstaking asceticism through the grace of Brahma there is no peril to me at anytime either from the demons or the Gods, let that mighty bow and arrows that was bestowed to me by the Creator, be transported to me I will vanquish Sri Rama and Lakshmana in an encounter. In order to delude the monkeys in the battle my child took recourse to conjuring tricks, for my part I will translate that fraud into an actuality, I shall finish the Maithili queen.’ Ravana his discernment bemused darted towards Sita, who thought to herself that she is still protected by her lord, though the ogre monarch was of impious determination. Even as several thoughts clouded despondent Sita’s mind; a good natured minister of the ogre monarch named Suparswa advised Ravana to find expression for wrath on Sri Rama alone and not to kill a woman (Sita). Accepting his minister’s advice which was consonant with righteousness Ravana withdrew into his palace.
Sri Rama destroys ogre troops:
Distressed with the passing away of his son Ravana, spoke to his commanders, ‘with entire ogre forces encircle the leader of the enemies, discharge hails of shafts and kill him or on the morrow while the world stands a witness I will dispatch him to the hall of gloom.’ Soon ogre forces set off to the arena; there ensued a furious encounter, the ogre forces used pikes, arrows, swords and axes as their missiles and the vanaras had the trees and rocks for theirs. The monkeys destroyed the ensigns, breastplate, chariots, horses and elephants and with their sharp teeth and nails tore the hair, ears, brows, nose, and ears of the ogres. The huge ogres struck down monkeys with their weapons, intriguingly however when the battle was in progress the dust raised by the contending armies settled down by the flow of blood proceeding from the ogres and the vanaras. When struck by the mighty army of the ogres the vanara troops sought as their shelter Sri Rama, Sri Rama infiltrated deep into ogre positions, and the fire of his shafts consumed the ogres. The night stalkers could perceive on the battlefield the presence of Sri Rama, only by his deeds, for his movements were quick as lightning. In quick time Sri Rama made short work of the army of elephants, of the great car-warriors, of the foot soldiers, along with horses. In the combat zone the ogres struck one another in rage because of their supposed similarity with Sri Rama, the ogres were thrown into confusion by means of the exceptional mystic missile presided over by the Gandharvas employed by Sri Rama, the ogres could not perceive the scion of Kakutstha even though he was crushing their army. In an hour and one half; single handedly Sri Rama exterminated an army of ogres, thousands of elephants and horses. The ogres unable to withstand the carnage escaped into Lanka. The Gods accompanied by Gandharvas, Siddas, seers commended the feat of Sri Rama. The jubilant king of men remarked to Sugriva, Hanuman, Vibhishana and others such amazing skills in the use of this mystic missiles existed in addition to himself only with Lord Shiva.
Ogresses bewail:
When the ogresses heard of the carnage and the death of thousands of ogres at the hands of Sri Rama from those who escaped, they were confused; they were miserable and were overwhelmed with anxiety. Tormented, wretched, nervous, overwhelmed with grief, the ogresses came together in groups, wailed as follows, ‘how did the hideous Surpanaka who is devoid of excellences, dare to make love with Sri Rama possessing exceptional features. It was because of Surpanaka’s blasphemous deeds, this harsh hostility has been conceived by the ten headed fiend and the blameless Sita was borne away for his own devastation. Any of the followings deeds should have convinced Ravana of Sri Rama’s unassailability, viz. on perceiving the short work made of Viradha or the destruction of the fourteen thousand ogres at Janasthana, or the death of Khara, Dushana, Trisiras, or the slaying of infamous Kabandha, or the killing of Vali and the installation of Sugriva. Had Ravana followed the advice of Vibhishana, or on hearing the death of Kumbhakarna, Athikaya, or on the death of Indrajit if only Ravana had realized the importance of Sri Rama and restored Videhan princess to Sri Rama, the city of Lanka would not have been afflicted with sorrow and saved from being turned a crematorium, my son, my husband my brother would not have been killed in the battle’ this was the cry from every lip of the ogresses. Sri Rama is either the guise of Rudra, or Indra, or Vishnu or God of Death, we wail as we are orphaned. Nasty omens are observed before every encounter, Ravana should know that Brahma has not granted security to him against human beings.’ At the same time when the human beings were oppressed by the ogre Ravana, the gods had approached Brahma, who gave them the assurance, henceforth the devils will have range the world with fear, Lord Siva assured the oppressed in these words, “A woman will appear for the destruction of the ogres.” Concluding that Sita is the woman and there is no refuge for the ogre clan; the ogresses wailed in heart rending tones
Ravana ventures to the arena:
The groans, laments and cries of the wailing ogresses from each house troubled the ogre monarch, with his head rumbling in fury, he turned to the assembled lords, ‘promptly instruct the troops to march out to the combat zone, bring my great bow, today my deadly shafts shall kill countless vanara hosts, also without doubt Raghu’s sons will fall a prey.’ Very soon rakshasa warriors armed with missiles sallied forth their faces turned to the arena, they paid reverence to the ogre monarch, and with joined palms they craved success to their monarch. In the meantime the chariot was brought; the monarch sprang to his seat to the roar of the drums, shells, and joyous full throated shouts from the ogres, the tyrant monarch hurried out in pride though the streets of Lanka to the battle. Louder was the scream; “There appears the ruler of the ogres well-known for his terrible demeanor, the abductor of Sita, the destroyer of Brahmans; to try his strength with Sri Rama.” Encircled by contingent of ogres followed by Mahaparswa, Mahodara, and Virupaksha, the fiend monarch looked like the God of Death Yama he approached the battlefield from the same entry point were Raghu’s sons laid in wait, the monkeys impulsively fled in panic. There were the gloomy omens; sun was lackluster, the earth wobbled, birds gave forth depressing cries, vulture flapped his offensive wings, his steeds trembled and stopped in dread. The ogre monarch’s voice was husky, his face turned pale, further a dim meteor fell from the sky releasing a din of holler; encouraged by adverse fate Ravana madly rushed to his doom. The simian army stood ready to face the giant’s fury and there arose a violent encounter, the ogre monarch let go his fury against the vanaras inflicting heavy casualties.
Sugriva makes short work of Virupaksha:
The battle field of Lanka bore testimony to Ravana’s fury; the devastation inflicted on the vanara crowd, the speed of the destructions impelled the monkeys to seek Sri Rama. Sugriva sensing the mood of his flock, nominated Susena to restore confidence in the simian ranks, the vanara monarch with his other commanders set out to assail the ogres. Sugriva hurled on the ogre troops showers of rocks and trees causing damage to the ogre brigades, likewise the ogres inflicted similar harm on the simian ranks. The ogre commander Virupaksha (Virupaksha means misshapen eyes)engaged himself in personal contest with Sugriva, in the combat both the combatants managed to inflict heavy blows on each other; eventually the superior might of Sugriva prevailed. The vanara monarch inflicted on the ogre Virupaksha a savage blow on the temple bone causing profuse bleedings on the person of the ogre. The vanaras saw Virupaksha fall precipitately to the ground bathed in foaming blood, thereafter the united army of the vanaras and the ogres were engaged in vicious combat.
Mahodara dies in the encounter with Sugriva:
Enraged by the fall of Virupaksha, tormented by the sight of his own army significantly destroyed by the simian ranks, assailed by adverse fate staring squarely, Ravana uttered to Mahodara, ‘decimate the aggressive enemies.’ Encouraged by his monarch, the ogre infiltrated deep into the hostile army, struck the vanara forces hard, inflicted huge casualties, some of the monkeys fled the combat zone others approached Sugriva for refuge. Considering the plight of his ranks, the vanara monarch entered the fray to confront Mahodara, a fearsome combat ensued, the missiles hurled at each other were neutralized, the combatants ignored the injuries on their person, the warriors even contended with the might of their fists, the blows were parried, the enraged combatants assaulted each other, each determined to fell the other. Impetuous ogre hero proud of his strength hurled his sword at the heavy protective covering of Sugriva, the vanara monarch in his turn severed the head of the fiend with his sword, thus putting an end to the harsh tussle. The fall of Mahodara evoked contrasting emotions on Sri Rama and Ravana, the ogre forces fear stricken fled the field in dread, the vanara hosts and the celestials were overwhelmed with delight.
Angada exterminates Mahaparswa:
Infuriated at the sight of deceased Mahodara; Mahaparswa attacked with all fury the vanara ranks commanded by Anagada; the gruesome carnage inflicted on the monkeys instilled despondency in the monkey hosts. Angada stepped into the arena to restore confidence in the vanara ranks hurled an iron bludgeon at Mahaparswa who under the impact of the blow dropped senseless to the ground whilst Jambavan with a huge rock struck down the horses yoked to his chariot. The ogre when he regained his consciousness with his numerous arrows pierced the person of Angada, struck Jambavan in the chest and also Gavaksa. In the fierce contest that took place between Angada and Mahaparswa, Mahaparswa eventually succumbed to the prowess of the vanara lord and reached the abode of the God of retribution (Yama). Rejoicing the triumph the vanara host emitted a huge roar, greatly provoked ogre monarch was possessed with rage and his army bewildered.
Ravana takes the field:
As Sri Rama rained darts on his ogre foes, Angada and Sugriva used rocks to crush the foes, the battlefield was strewn with dismembered remains of the combatants, heaps of created beings living and dead. When Ravana saw his formidable champion ogres, Virupaksha , Mahodara and Mahaparswa dropped dead in fury he howled, ‘O charioteer get my chariot ready, this very day I will slaughter the vanara chiefs, I will conquer the sons of Dasaratha, in the defeat of Sri Rama, Sita will be bereft of her protector.’ Saying so he mounted his chariot, causing the earth beneath to tremble, he rained his shafts on the vanara hosts who were either killed or fled; finally he came close to Ikshvaku princes. Sri Rama let go at his ogre foes hail of shafts and Lakshmana in the fierce fight sent hail of mystic shafts at Ravana which were neutralized by the ogre monarch, and each shaft hurled at the ogre monarch fell harmlessly to the ground. Passing over Lakshmana the fiend monarch approached Sri Rama, each warrior shot a tempest of shafts at the other, the fight was fierce, the missiles sped to their target. Sri Rama and Ravana covered each other with showers of sharp pointed shafts, pushing back each other with surge of arrows, the two warriors remained undefeated in the intense struggle. The two combatants were armed with excellent bows were skilled in fighting, were proficient in the use of mystic missiles, unhampered they moved on the field, their arrows engulfed the sky with darkness. Ravana discharged a succession of arrows that dug on the eyebrows of Sri Rama which he endured; Sri Rama with his arrows struck on the impenetrable protective covering of the ogres that fell to the ground causing no damage to the ogre.
Lakshmana swoons; Ravana fidgety:
When Ravana saw his missiles thwarted by Sri Rama; the ogre monarch took recourse to mightier mystic missiles only to be negated by superior missiles employed by the scion of Raghu, the lord of ogres and the lord of men caused injuries to the person of each other, but neither flinched. Incensed Lakshmana confronted Ravana; adroit as each was; each archer neutralized the potency of the other’s weapons, Lakshmana with an arrow severed the head of the ogre’s charioteer; Vibhishana with his mace struck down the horses that drew the chariot. In violent rage the king of the ogres flung at Vibhishana a flaming thunderbolt like javelin which was rendered ineffectual by Lakshmana with his arrows. The ogre monarch screaming at Lakshmana, on seeing his brother rescued; “You who have rescued Vibhishana, O! Vaunter of your strength this javelin will depart after taking your life,” saying thus the ogre monarch hurled another numinous javelin at Lakshmana. Addressing the javelin even as it was falling on Lakshmana the scion of Raghu imprecated the missile, “May all be well with Lakshmana may this missile be rendered ineffectual,” the missile struck Lakshmana on his bosom; he swooned and fell to the ground. Seeing Lakshmana pierced by the javelin; distressed and bathed in blood, the mighty monkeys tried in vain but could not extract the javelin, even with effort for after passing through the body of Lakshmana the javelin had penetrated into the earth. When Sri Rama saw his younger brother fall he subdued his grief, rationalizing that this is not the time for melancholic feeling, thoughts of vengeance filled his bosom he resolved upon the destruction of Ravana. Not minding the arrows hurled at him by Ravana, Sri Rama seized hold of the terrible javelin with his hands, he drew it out, and getting enraged in the course of that struggle he shattered it. He embraced Lakshmana and spoke to Hanuman, “remain encircling Lakshmana, the occasion to manifest my prowess has come now, I take this unfailing vow that before long you will see the world without Ravana, having fallen within my sight he cannot survive any longer.” Covered by hails of arrows, overwhelmed by Sri Rama closing with him, out of dread Ravana took to his heels.
Lakshmana convalesces:
When Sri Rama was dispirited, he wept and moaned as he gazed on Lakshmana’s face, “My limbs fail me, I am nervous, Lakshmana you were my life breath outside of me, no purpose of mine will now be served by my fighting. Wives may be found everywhere, so too kinsfolk can be found everywhere; nowhere can a brother endowed with exceptional majesty like you can be found. What object of mine on earth will be achieved by sovereignty without Lakshmana, who was difficult to overpower? What shall I actually say to mother Sumitra, who is fond of her son? I shall not be able to endure the reproach which will be leveled at me by Sumitra; what I shall I say to mother Kausalya, Kaikeyi to Bharata and to Shatrugna, when they ask me how I came back without Lakshmana. What sinful deed was perpetrated by me in a former existence, (this is an allusion to Bhrigu’s curse detailed in Uttarakandam) due to which my pious brother lies breathless before me. Whenever I was grief stricken, when I roamed listlessly in the mountains and woods Lakshmana you had been my comforter. No purpose of mine will be achieved be it success either in war or sovereignty, it is better I give up my ghost here itself than face reproaches. O prince of men open your eyes, look at me and see for yourself how miserable am I?” Comforting wailing Sri Rama, Susena spoke these words, ‘Surely Lakshmana is alive, his countenance is cheerful, O gallant ruler of men cheer up to the fact there are no visible signs of Lakshmana being dead, repeated throbbing of Lakshmana’s heart implies he is alive.’ Turning to Hanuman, Susena spoke these words, ‘Quickly proceed to Mahodaya mountain, there on its southern peak the following precious herbs Visalyakarani, Savarnyakarani, Samjivakarani Samdani are found, these herbs will restore Lakshmana to consciousness, swiftly bring here these valuable herbs.’ Hanuman hurried to the peak,(apparently a peak of Himalayan chain) unable to recognize the herbs, bearing in mind the importance of time, he uprooted the peak which was clad with innumerable trees in bloom, and thereafter he reached Susena, to the amazement of the hosts. In the exploit of Hanuman among other adventures he narrowly escapes being shot by Bharata as he passes over Nandigrama near Ayodhya. Hanuman promptly gives to Bharata an account of what has befallen Sri Rama and Sita in the forest and in Lanka. Susena culled the supreme herbs, crushed and ground the herbs; administered the salve to Lakshmana who instantly got respite and was on his feet. Sri Rama tightly embraced his brother said to him, “Luckily you have returned from the jaws of death, you have made the purpose of my life and pursuit of Sita meaningful.” Aggrieved by the indecisive talk of Sri Rama, Lakshmana uttered these words, “O sinless one, do what I tell you; translate your pledge of killing Ravana, for my part I wish to see the evil ogre killed before dusk today, accomplish your vow. Those who are truthful never leave their promise unfinished; do not give way to despair.”
Sri Rama renews his combat; seated in Indras’s chariot:
With Lakshmana now restored to life, Sri Rama unfastened torrents of shafts from his formidable bow, to agonize his ogre foe. The ogre monarch from his chariot battered Sri Rama with tough shafts, though the lord of men covered the suzerain lord of the ogres with arrows blazing like fire, the combat between the lord of men on foot and the ogre monarch seated in his chariot was mismatched. The indignant celestials watched the disparate fight; provoked Indra commanded his charioteer Matali, “Swiftly proceed with my chariot to where Sri Rama is, pleasantly convey to him that all the Gods sanctify Sri Rama’s actions, you proceed to provide precious assistance to the Ikshvaku prince.” Matali after due obeisance to the lord of Gods descended with an exceptional chariot, to perform the duty of the charioteer to the scion of Kakutsthsa. Matali brought the chariot to where Sri Rama was and humbly submitted, ‘O glorious son of the Raghu, to support you this chariot has been offered to you by Indra, here is the mighty celestial bow, these shafts, this coat of glittering breastplate, and spears, now ascend the car, O chief.” Thereafter ensued an hair raising duel between the scion of Raghu and the ogre monarch, mystic missiles discharged by the ogre were destroyed by missiles of the same kind by the lord of men, the dreadful battle grew fiercer. Each shaft the Ravana shot became a serpent with quivery tongue and fiery jaw, they hung round Sri Rama’s limbs, every fiery serpent fled in dismay when Sri Rama shot weapons of Garuda. Ravana was provoked to anger on his missiles having been frustrated by Sri Rama he covered Sri Rama with a formidable shower of arrows, he also pierced Matali with a stream of shafts, felled the golden pennant of the chariot, and struck as well the horses drawing Indra’s chariot with sleet of arrows. Seeing Sri Rama distressed, the Gods and the celestials trembled, the vanara chiefs and Vibhishana were tormented, Sri Rama gave way to fierce rage, enraged Sri Rama ordained fearful omen to all created beings, the earth trembled on its rim, Ravana too was seized with dread. Firmly recognized in their respective positions the demons cried out to the ten headed monster, “Be victorious”, on the other side Gods acclaimed “Sri Rama be you triumphant.” Ravana held a very dreadful and unassailable dart and addressed the following spiteful words to Sri. Rama, ‘O scion of Raghu wait a bit, this powerful dart will instantly take away your life as well as that of Lakshmana, your helpmate, you shall speedily join the other killed ogres, in the Kingdom of Yama.’ The scion of Raghu finding his shafts unsuccessful in countering the dart, he hurled the famous javelin brought by Matali, to counter the dart hurled by Ravana, thus he neutralized the dart hurled by Ravana. Then Sri Rama with his arrows shattered the horses drawing the ogre’s chariot, as also caused bleeding wounds on the person of the now exhausted ogre.
Ravana reprimanded:
Combatants greatly enraged; the battlefield was shrouded in darkness by the hail of arrows discharged at each other by both Sri Rama and Ravana. Filled with anger and unmindful of the wound on his person Sri Rama reprimanded the ogre monarch in these words, “Unaware of my strength you stealthily stole my spouse; the Videhan princess, when she was away from me. You have committed the cowardly act of stealing another person’s spouse, O, Ogre you pretend to be a champion in front of the ladies, you have brazenly transgressed the limits of decency. Indeed for that condemnable, stunning, fabulous, spiteful, despicable action committed by you through sheer narcissism you harvest the rich fruit; DEATH. Though you would like to say publicly you are a champion conqueror; you did not by force lay your hands on Sita; for you were aware in that event aided by my shafts you would have joined Khara in the kingdom of death. O indolent one; having fallen to my view by good fortune you have booked a passage to the abode of Yama, your mortal remains will satiate carnivorous beasts and birds.” The ability, strength, the belligerent zeal and the vitality of the weaponry of Sri Rama was colossal; he began to strike Ravana more fervidly. Assailed by Sri Rama’s shafts, and struck with the stones hurled by the vanara hosts; bewildered Ravana was a pale picture of his former self; he could not confront his foe. Perceiving his ogre monarch bereft of energy the charioteer sneaked his car away from the arena.
Charioteer chided:
Propelled by grim fate, possessed with rage, Ravana spoke to his charioteer as follows; ‘O wicked fellow this act of removing me from the battlefield cannot be the work of a well meaning friend, I justly infer that you are corrupted by the enemy. As though I am incapable, wanting in skills, courage, devoid of energy, acting indiscrete you have heaped disrepute on me, without ascertaining my resolve why was my chariot removed from the field and made a coward of me? Be loyal to me drive the chariot back to the field.’ The charioteer’s reply, ‘I am fully loyal to you, eager to be of service to you, thinking as I did to protect your glory, I executed an act which was not to your taste; you should not hold me culpable in this matter. When I took your chariot away from the battlefield, I foresaw events which were not auspicious to us, I took notice of your fatigue, the steeds of my chariot were miserable. How to advance, how to recede, how to hold one’s position, how to make a good retreat, all this must be known to the charioteer, O lord your chariot was not capriciously removed by me, I have done what I had done only for the reason of my overwhelming affection to you; my master now command me to do that which needs to be done.’ Satisfied with the explanation the ogre lord directed the charioteer to proceed to the combat zone, the instruction was complied.
Adityahrdaya;
Glory to the Sun: (Sage Agastya is the author of several Vedic hymns. This canto is considered important in the context of mundane living; even today several people recite this canto in entirety every day at the rising of the Sun. To the question why this prayer claims so great reverence; the sage answers. This hymn does not lend itself to cadenced translation) Having found Sri Rama weary with fighting and buried in deep thought, and Ravana standing before him ready to engage in battle, the holy Agastya who had come to glimpse the battle, approached Sri Rama and spoke to him thus: “O mighty Sri Rama, listen to the eternal secret in the form of an outstanding encomium titled Adityahrdaya. This holy prayer destroys all enemies of him who repeats it, confers victory eliminates all sins, sorrows, and distress, increases life. The chant is the worship of the rising and splendid Sun who is respected by both the Gods and demons, who gives light to all bodies and who is the rich lord of all the worlds. Rising Sun is full of glory and all gods reside in him, he constitutes all living beings, he is the life breath of the cosmos, the source of the season the one whose energy constitutes the seed of the universe; he is the creator of the day and the destroyer of hours of darkness/ignorance. He is the foundation of bliss, the dispeller of misery; he is the all pervading cause of conception, conservation, and devastation of the universe. He is pleasant by temperament he stomachs the fire of dissolution in his womb, he is the demolisher of cold/stupidity, he is the lord of the Universe, he is the master of the three Vedas, Rig, Yajur, Samaveda, he is the sender of thick spell of rain and is the supplier of water and thereby produces corn. He courses speedily along his own orbit, he carries in him the resolve to evolve the cosmos, is adorned with a circle of rays he is dazzling among the fabulous. He is all that is produced; he is all knowing and the source of all evolutes and is magnificent among the marvelous. He is majesty personified, dispeller of ignorance, and the onlooker of the world. The aforesaid lord is planted in all created beings, he remains awake at all times, even when senses are asleep, he himself is the act of pouring oblations into the sacred fire, as well as the reward obtained by the person pouring oblation. He comprises all the Gods as well as all the sacrifices as also the fruit of the sacrifices. O scion of Raghu he is the supreme controller of all activities, no individual celebrating the said Lord is in trouble and never comes to sorrow. He is the one who lessens the miseries of our birth and death, he is the one who gives life to the lifeless world, one who is resplendent and one who pervades the internal and external worlds is associated with the creator, Brahma; the supporter, Vishnu; and the destroyer, Siva. I salute you, I salute you who are the Eastern mountain, I salute you who the western mountain I salute you who are the lord of days I respectfully saluté you who are the one who gives victory over all the worlds to those who are faithfully devoted to him; one who is identical with the blessing which can be obtained by conquering all the worlds; one who has Hanuman as his conveyance (Hardhaasva). O you who has a thousand rays I repeatedly salute you, I repeatedly salute you who are Aditya, I repeatedly salute you who are the one who controls the senses: or who is furious with those who are not his devotees; he who is free in moving the senses; or urges all beings to action. I salute you who opens the lotuses; the lotus of the heart. I salute you who are furious. I salute you who are the Lord of Brahma, Siva and Vishnu. I salute you who are the Sun, one who is the knowledge of Brahma, splendid, one who devours all things; and he who is the destroyer of all pains; and of love, hate, the causes of pain; and ignorance which is the cause of love and hate I salute you who destroys darkness, cold and enemies; whose form is boundless, who are the destroyer of the ungrateful, who are one who is bliss, who are the Lord of the luminous bodies and who appear like heated gold. I salute you who destroys ignorance and its effects the doer of all actions the destroyer of darkness and who are splendid, and one, who beholds the universe; who is a witness of good and bad actions. He is the Lord of all the duties known to the world. If any man, O Raghava, in calamities, miseries, and dangers prays to the Sun he is never overwhelmed in distress. Worship with close attention Him the God of gods and the Lord of the world; recite these verses thrice, whereby you will be victorious in the battle. O brave one, you will kill Ravana this very instant. Agastya having said that went away as he came. The glorious Sri Rama having heard this became free from sorrow. Raghava whose senses were under control, being pleased, committed the hymn to memory, recited it facing the Sun, and obtained great delight. The brave Sri Rama having sipped water thrice and become pure took his bow and seeing Ravana was delighted. The celestials felt exhilarated on perceiving the destruction of the ruler of ogres they exclaimed, “Make haste.”
Sri Rama requests Matali to be on lookout:
Seeing Ravana with irresponsibility draw out his bow and advance in his chariot, Sri Rama spoke to Matali, “I am keen to battle out with full concentration, I speak not to caution you, do take suitable care without getting confounded advance towards the foe’s chariot; it appears to me that my enemy is keen on self annihilation in the combat.” Grateful to Sri Rama for his talk, Matali positioned the chariot to where the ogre monarch was, angered Ravana struck Sri Rama with his arrows. Provoked by the assault Sri Rama seized hold of Indra’s bow, and arrows and thereafter ensued a terrifying conflict, Gods Siddhas, Gandharvas, and Rishis yearning for Ravana’s defeat assembled to witness the conflict. At the time there were ominous portents that spelt disaster to the ogre and encouraging portents indicating propitious tidings to Sri Rama, despite the portents the horrifying conflict followed, with each combatant seeking to slay the other.
The violent encounter:
On that occasion a protracted violent encounter ensued, where both the warriors resolved to die or win, furious was the din, fully armed soldiers of both the armies watched in terror and dismay the fate of the dreadful battle. Valiant ogre chief in vain aimed his darts at the pennons fixed on Sri Rama’s chariot the darts fell on to the ground; whilst a deadly arrow released by the scion of Kakustha flew straight at the banner, split the ensign on the ogre lord’s chariot bringing the flag to the ground. The infuriated ogre lord rained a shower of arrows at the heavenly steeds; however the steeds sustained the shower as though smote by soft lotus stems. Enraged further the ogre monarch let loose a further shower of mystic missiles, spears, trident, spike, mace, trees, and mountain crests; however the weapons failed to strike the intended target instead fell on the simian ranks crushing a thousand monkey hosts. With incredible clout, posturing and strength the giant fought with Sri Rama; each warrior strove to achieve victory over the other, the steed yoked to the chariots dashed, the chariots clashed, the champion warriors were assaulted by the fiery darts hurled at them, yet neither of them trembled, nor shrunk back, nor exhibited any traces of pain. Sri Rama shot a dense cloud of arrows at Ravana, from the ogre dire spell of rains of shafts, spears maces, club were hurled at Sri Rama. The earth wobbled, the sun grew feeble and cold, the rising windstorm ascended in horror; Gods, Gandharvas Yaksas, saints and sages wept out in grief and dread, ‘O Sri Rama, overthrow the giant, rescue the world from our terrible enemy.’ Watching that incomparable fight the struggle between Sri Rama and Ravana can be likened only to the struggle between Sri Rama and Ravana. Next from his deadly bow Sri Rama released an arrow that sprang straight to its mark and severed the head of the monster fiend, even before celebrations could begin another head grew in its place. The second head too was struck off by Sri Rama, soon another head succeeded swiftly in its place; in the identical manner a hundred heads of fiery flame fell to the ground yet Ravana betrayed no sign of death or collapse of strength. Soon Sri Rama became pensive he said to himself, “I wonder what is the reason why these well known infallible shafts have proved of little efficacy against Ravana.” Sri Rama though absorbed in thoughts he continued to rain showers of arrows at Ravana, and ogre king too continued to torment Sri Rama with a shower of maces and mallets, the awful fight continued through the hours of night and day and the conflict continued without a pause.
Sri Rama kills Ravana:
Matali told Sri Rama, ‘O gallant prince, the hour of the ogre’s doom which was prophesied by the Gods has now come, dump the self-protective tactics, do resort to the mystic missile presided over by the grandsire of the universe, Brahma; which never fails its target.’ The celebrated sage Agastya had bestowed on Sri Rama that enormous arrow gifted to him by Brahma whose strength was immense. Sri Rama charged the dart with mystic spell in accordance with the scriptural pronouncement; he placed it on his bow and released the shaft on Ravana. Soon the dart, pierced the broad chest of the ogre monarch and slashed his heart, the infamous bow of the ogre dropped down from his hand and Ravana fell dead from the chariot on to the ground. The well known arrow having accomplished the mission, soaked in blood on having killed Ravana the graceful arrow reentered Sri Rama’s quiver. When the ogre monarch fell dead, in confusion the rakshasas let go an incredible shriek; gave up all hopes in panic they ran to escape the carnage; the simian ranks rejoiced, and let go a triumphant shout. The joyous celestials said “Champion of the Gods; Well done;” they covered Sri Rama’s chariots with showers of flowers, Gods were relieved of the fear, the earth ceased to tremble, the wind blew gently; the sun shed a steady light.
Vibhishana’s bewail:
Seeing his brother killed, his mind overwhelmed with sorrow Vibhishana wept aloud: ‘O celebrated hero, you are accustomed to a plush bed why are you lying motionless on the ground? Overcome with obsession and concupiscence this very fate which was predicted by me has been met with by you. This devastation has come about as an outcome to the fact neither Prahasta nor Indrajit, nor did Kumbhakarna, nor did Atikaya, nor did Narantaka nor did you value my counsel. Now with you fallen to the ground the storehouse of might has left for good, you were the refuge of adroit warriors, with you being out of sight, the sun has lost his luminosity, the moon is murky, the flames have gone out of the fire, with you lying on the dust, everything that belonged to the people of this city has departed. Our king was the generous lord, the trusted friend, when fear arose in us he was our definite protection; he was a dreaded scourge of the stubborn enemies. Against Sri Rama’s tempest of arrows, the misery for the giant’s royal tree is absolute; the royal tree (Ravana) now lies prostrate.’ To Vibhishana who was possessed of grief Sri Rama spoke as follows; “Ravana has not met his death because he lacked energy, he was gifted with dreadful deftness and he remained unbending till the very end. Warriors remaining unyielding in their duty and seeking advancement in the shape of victory and are destroyed need not be mourned for. None has been ever completely victorious. Even in the past, a hero is either killed by his foes or makes short work of them in the combat, indeed this is the destiny proclaimed by the ancients and highly admired for the warrior. So bearing this in mind control pointless grief; go ahead with the duty that is to be performed next.” To Sri Rama grieving Vibhishana submitted further, ‘My brother was never ever before vanquished in the combat, he conferred gifts on mendicants, dependents were showered with luxuries, riches were bestowed on friends, and he led a ritualistic life. Through your benevolence I seek to perform that which ought to be performed to the deceased brother.’ Sri Rama said, “Hatred disappears when the enemy is slain, in victory conflicts come to an end and we are bound in bonds of peace; let funeral rites be performed; let obsequies be performed in relation to him, he is to me what he was to you.”
The lament of the consorts:
(Fate ruthless Fate where none change direction urges hapless created beings to their unfortunate culmination). Sunken through sorrow, the wailing ogresses with trembling feet and rumpled hair, rushed deep into the dreadful combat arena to search for their slain spouse. Falling by their husband’s mangled form, afflicted to see their Ravana they sobbed in diverse ways; ‘Ah O my dearest lord, you had in the past inspired dread in Indra; Yama, and the other hosts of celestials; you had deprived Kubera of his aerial car. This catastrophe has come in the combat from a mortal. You a combatant was incapable of being killed by Gods, or by devils and ogres and here you are conveyed to the region of death by a mortal. While you now recline slain in the battle-field, when alive in arrogance you would not listen to a wise friend, who beseeched you to restore Sita to her lord, in smugness you for your self destruction banished Vibhishana who tendered salutary advice. Insensate you kept Sita under detention, an outcome of this folly the ogres, we your consorts and your own self are all ruined in one go. O mighty ogre this destruction of the monkeys as also of ogres and yours as well has come about as an act of destiny only. The course of destiny, when about to bear fruit, cannot be diverted, by money, wish, and heroism or even by command.’
Mandodari’s lament:
(Perpetrator of sinful deeds reaps misery). As the consorts of Ravana were wailing thus, the stunning in form, the principal spouse, Mandodari arrived there grieving, ‘O ruler of the ogres you are gifted with strength, courage and verve; by virtue of your abilities, you were the dread of the immortals, you have conquered the three worlds, you lived in a place inaccessible to man; you were equipped with mystic missiles yet you are put to death by Sri Rama a mortal, this is incompatible with reason. He can only be God Vishnu the Supreme lord, who has neither a beginning nor an end, and has descended in the guise of a man with his club, diadem and discus, to bring ruin to the ogre race. The moment your brother Khara though surrounded by numerous ogres was killed, also the moment Hanuman penetrated deep into the city of Lanka, you were cautioned by me to the effect that no hostility should be entered into with Sri Rama; but impelled by adverse fate you paid no heed to my trepidation. To the devastation of your masses, your existence and your sovereignty; you mysteriously conjured up a passion for Sita. The princess of Mithila is no match for me; she is much less better than me, in birth, in exquisiteness, nor in sophistication. It was cowardice on your part that the consort of Sri Rama was stolen by you after luring away Sri Rama from his hermitage by recourse to deception, in the shape of an illusory deer and also removing Lakshmana from the scene. Stupidly you disgraced the famous Sita, who is worthy of worship in the point of forbearance; Sita is a model of grace, she is extremely fond of her spouse; you have surely been consumed by the asceticism of the princess of Mithila, your passion for Sita led to the destruction of your sovereignty, destruction of the ogre race, your own life and eternal infamy. There are in your gynaeceum other young ladies superior to Sita in physical charm, having fallen a prey to infatuation; through ignorance you did not perceive this. Your entire fortune has vanished due to the sin perpetrated by you which had sprung from cupidity and wrath; what followed was the harsh corollary of your obstinacy; hence this major disaster which has destroyed our very root. O Lord when the time for retribution comes the perpetrator assuredly reaps the fruits of his sins; you now have met with this unsympathetic fate. The popular saying that tears of women devoted to their husband do not normally fall on the earth‘s surface in vain has been proved. Alas, at the last stage of life your death has conferred widowhood on me; I am now a wretched wreck. I was proud to think of Maya my father the king of the devils and you my spouse the king of ogres and my son Indrajit the conqueror of Indra all renowned for might and gallantry, as such I was to fear nothing. In your death O king all that now seems a thing of the past. Death does not come to any living being without a cause, your collapse on this occasion was brought about on account of Mithilan princess. Separated from my family, I shall grieve for many years, O king take me also with you, O lover of your spouses, do not disappear leaving me miserable.’ To Mandodari who was overwhelmed with grief, her co-wives calmed her, with these words, ‘O queen you are aware, in our uncertain existence in this world, the riches of the kings becomes wobbly when there is change in the surge of their destiny.’ Sri Rama counseled Vibhishana, “Assuage the grief of these mourners, commence the due obsequies, as prescribed in the lore.” In reply Vibhishana made his submission, ‘Ravana in the guise of my elder brother was my foe, he had scorned all venerated activities, he was spiteful, he had abandoned the path of virtue, I do not adore him for this reason I cannot perform the funeral rites of Ravana.’ To Vibhishana; Sri Rama made his reply; “O Vibhishana, duty beckons me to tell you; granted Ravana was an oppressor, he was smug, yet he was impressive, he was lively; was ever heroic in battles, he was never defeated in battles even by Gods led by Indra. Hostilities continue only till death, O Vibhishana your eldest brother deserves appropriate funeral ceremony, in so doing you earn good merit.” Heeding Sri Rama’s call Vibhishana quickly performed the act of pouring oblations into the sacred fire in the Royal palace of Ravana, the funeral rites commenced with solemnity. Vibhishana led the procession followed by the sad widows, those well versed in Vedas conducted the rituals, and cremation befitting the status of the Lord of the Ogres was performed as ordained in scriptures and Vibhishana kindled the fire. The cremation over, the mourners returned to Lanka, Sri Rama in the company of Vibhishana, Lakshmana, Sugriva and the vanara host experienced joy, he laid aside his weapons, he conquered his rage and assumed a calm demeanor.
Sanctification of Vibhishana:
The Gods, the celestial musicians, and the Danavas saw the destruction of Ravana, they cogently spoke about the ogre Lord’s fall, the prowess of Sri Rama, devotion and gallantry of Hanuman and Lakshmana, the fidelity of Sita to her spouse Sri Rama and the incisive counsel tendered by Sugriva, thereafter with glee they dispersed in their aerial cars to their abode. Sri Rama after due salutations to Matali sent Indra’s charioteer and the divine chariot and they reached his abode in the heaven. Joyous Sri Rama hugged Sugriva, embraced the other vanara hosts, and spoke to Lakshmana thus, “It is my principal desire to see Vibhishana consecrated on the throne of Lanka, now let speedy arrangements be made.” Rejoiced Lakshmana handed the vanara lords the golden jars and commanded them to fetch sea water, quickly the vanara hosts fetched the water from the four seas. Lakshmana for his part consecrated Vibhishana as the Lord of Lanka, in accordance with the scriptural ordinances; this event was joyfully watched by the entire vanara and ogre host. Soon Sri Rama’s thoughts went to his queen, bidding Hanuman to his presence Sri Rama whispered, “Go to my queen, proffer joy to her, convey the tiding of death of Lanka’s monarch, and tell her all is well; return here with her message.”
Sita’s message:
Hanuman with the permission of Vibhishana, took leave of Sri Rama; proceeded to the grove where he saw the Mithilan queen under a tree, her face pale, her hair tousled, dressed in gloomy attire, watched by the rakshasa warders. Sri Rama’s envoy greeted her when he came close to her to communicate to her the message from her lord, ‘O divine lady, be freed from anxiety, Sri Rama with the support of Vibhishana and with the co-operation of the vanara army has conquered Lanka, the ogre king Ravana has been killed. The following is the communication of Sri Rama for you, “Fear should no longer haunt you, my promise of winning your freedom has been accomplished, and the sovereignty of Lanka is now with Vibhishana, who is keen to pay his obeisance to you.” Spoken to in these words the God like lady, was speechless due to excessive joy, she on Hanuman’s insistence began her reply, “Words fail me, the joyful report leaves me expressionless, I cannot think of anything in the three worlds equal in value or more precious, or more delightful than this information.” Hanuman standing in front of Sita reverently submitted again, ‘O Queen your expressions are full of substance, and affection; I have gained all blessings, now that Sri Rama is victorious and enemy Ravana is killed in battle, I have gained supreme bliss. O illustrious lady, before I leave this place I seek your permission to slay these hideous of aspect ogresses who heaped insults and scorn on you.’ To the supreme in strength, Hanuman; who was exemplified by mellifluent speech and an intellect distinguished by eight excellences,(keenness to hear discourses on the lore, and readiness to hear the same; receptivity; retentive power; reasoning for and against a proposition; the faculty of comprehension; and realization of truth; these are the characteristics of a ripe and a sound intellect) Sita replied, “O Vayuputra, these ogresses are the slaves of their monarch, they did his bidding, hence they are free from stain, I have my fate to blame, destiny is supreme, my misfortune was ordained, I condone the fault of the slaves of the ogre monarch.” The Videhan princess continued, “The following is an old adage conformable to morality, actually spoken by a bear in the presence of a tiger. Please listen to it, “Formerly a tiger ran in pursuit of a hunter, the hunter climbed up a tree where a bear was already perched on a bough of that tree. Making to the foot of the tree the tiger spoke to the bear: ‘Look both of us are denizens of the forest and our common enemy is the hunter, for that reason thump him down.’ On the other hand the bear replied, ‘having reached my abode, the hunter has sought my refuge, I will be deviating from my duty if I do so.’ After a while the bear slept on the lap of the hunter. The tiger now turned to the hunter and said, ‘push the bear down I shall offer protection to you.’ The hunter pushed the resting bear, the bear escaped from falling down by clutching to another bough. The tiger now appealed to the bear, ‘the hunter sought to hurl you down he has wronged you for this reason you push him down.’ Though repeatedly beseeched by the tiger the bear refused to hurl the hunter down. This parable is often quoted in support of the following affirmation, the superior man does not reckon the sins committed against him a felony, he is firm in his resolve not to return evil for evil. There is none who never commits a crime; no evil should be done even to those cruel men of immoral deeds.” Moved by admiration; Vayuputra sought and got from the Mithilan queen this message for Sri Rama, “O chief my only wish is to see my loving lord.” The son of wind-god assured, ‘O Queen you shall this very day see Sri Rama, his faithful brother, and all his friends who got rid of Ravana,’ saying so Hanuman faithfully sought and repeated to Sri Rama the message from his consort.
The keenly anticipated reunion:
After salutations to Sri Rama, Hanuman made this submission, ‘Overwhelmed with despair the Videhan queen heard of your victory; her tear-filled eyes lit up in elation, her words to me were, “I desire to see my spouse,” she is impatient to see you and you ought to see that divine lady immediately.’ On hearing this submission, Sri Rama became pensive, tears bathed his face; looking at the ground, he told Vibhishana, “Without delays after she has bathed, perfumed and ornamented bring Sita here.” Vibhishana swiftly sought Sita, with upraised hands palms joined together he humbly submitted to the divine lady; ‘O princess of Videhan territory your spouse desires to see you. After having taken your bath, daubed with heavenly cosmetics and adorned with celestial jewels pray mount the palanquin.’ Sita replied to Vibhishana; “O King of ogres I desire to see my Lord without having bathed.” Upon being told by Vibhishana that Sri Rama desires to see her after she has taken her bath, daubed herself with cosmetics, and adorned with ornaments, soon a well decorated Sita ascended the palanquin and was brought to where Sri Rama was. Vibhishana was commanded by the scion of Raghu, “O suzerain lord of the ogres; let the princess of Videhan territory duly seek my presence.” Responding to the command of the lord of men, Vibhishana the ogre band began to disperse the gathering of vanara hosts who had gathered to have a glimpse of Sita; thereby causing a wild whimper. Clearly annoyed the way the surging throng was pushed back, Sri Rama cried halt to this saying, “I regard the vanaras as my people, why push back those who have come to see my long incarcerated queen. A woman’s shield is neither her bower, nor her royalty, her shield is her character, I observe Sita is in distress, overwhelmed with trouble, hence there is no objection for her public appearance in my presence. Let the princess of Videhan kingdom descend the palanquin, come on foot to see me, and these monkeys can have a look at her.” Severity of the message made Vibhishana pensive, he reverently conducted Sita to the presence of her lord, distressed Lakshmana, Sugriva and Hanuman concluded that their lord was unhappy with his spouse. Graceful Sita was at once afflicted, astonished, and delighted to see her darling lord after a long while; she looked at her lord in joy and with cheerless eyes.
Sita renounced :
(When we proceed to read this Sarga we should bear in mind Ravana’s father-in-law was Maya, that besides we should be acquainted with Uttarakandam Sargas 17; 50; 51; 52; 96; 99; 100; 101; and 114. What is on display is the quintessence of Raja Dharma, fruits of Karma, and above all lessons on psychology verily psychologists delight) .Looking on attentively at the trembling princess; Sri Rama even as he saw his beloved, spoke out his heart, “O lady my undertaken task is completed with your liberation, the mortification and slight heaped on me by your abduction is avenged, my masculinity was on display, successful was my toil, my promise fulfilled; in this I was aided by Hanuman, Sugriva, and Vibhishana. I make it apparent to you that all this hard work was not commenced for your sake, but to remove the disgrace coming to me as the stigma on my Ikshvaku race. To me you are disgraceful; no purpose of mine remains to be served by you, O lady, the whole world is before you, I grant you the permission to go wherever you want to. I cannot take you back simply because you have been single-mindedly devoted to me, you were clutched into the arms of Ravana, the ogre was prying on you with an evil eye, you an inmate of his ladies bower; there is no more attachment for you in me. You may therefore go wherever you like, set your mind on Lakshmana, or even on Bharata on Shatrugna or Sugriva or even on Vibhishana. ” Hearing these unpalatable words Sita wept bitterly.
Sita’s ordeal by fire:
Sri Rama’s words were piercing, mortifying, these words only served to let go torrents of poignant tears from the eyes of quivering, shrinking, Sita. In timid tones she addressed her lord, “O my lord, your words are merciless, inappropriate, be assured, when I was abducted by Ravana, I was helpless; at that time my limbs were not under my control, only my heart and mind was under my control, impelled by doom I had fallen under the control of Ravana. Why your words are shrill? Judging by the conduct of vulgar women, your distrust of entire womanhood is irrational, about me I swear to you by all my righteous life, my heart ever abides in you, you blame only the fate, the mugger fiend, and not your spouse. O king why did you not communicate the intent of repudiation through Hanuman when I was in Lanka, I would have given up my life then and saved you and your friends this futile exertion and useless suffering and avoidable threat to your life. O appraiser of good conduct, while renouncing me, my femininity alone was taken into consideration, not my divine origin, nor my devotion nor my chastity, nor my truthful veneration of you in times of happiness and suffering, nor my humble acquiescence; all that is now overlooked.” Turning to Lakshmana sobbing Sita said, “After this overpowering indignity; I resolve not to live, I am desperate and abandoned. Raise a pyre, the kindled fire for sure will terminate my hopeless woes.” Sensing Sri Rama’s frame of mind, anguished Lakshmana; left with no choice prepared the pyre. Janaki before entering the fire, went clockwise around her lord, then humbly offered her prayers to the God of Fire, “Since Sri Rama takes me to be dishonest, the presiding deity God of Flames, as also other Gods know me to be endowed with good character and of unimpeachable conduct; may they afford protection to me,” so saying she went round the flames, she entered the pyre with a serene mind. While the divine lady was entering the fire the celestials witnessed her falling into a sacrificial fire with trepidation, the vanaras and the ogres gave out a shrill cry.
Brahma eulogizes Sri Rama:
Shrill cries of the wailing throng pierced Sri Rama’s ears, his sad eyes overflowed with tears, Kubera, the god of riches, the King of Yakshas; the God of retribution(Yama), Pitrus, the spirits of the dead, Indra, Varuna, Siva, Brahma, in their privileged state approached Sri Rama in the city of Lanka. With joined palms and their long arms raised they addressed Sri Rama in these words, “You are the foremost of the Gods, you have no beginning, no ending, nor the middle; you are the Lord of all the worlds, you cannot allow your spouse to defy the fire and enter the pyre.” Sri Rama replied to the celestials, “I reckon myself a mortal, son of Emperor Dasaratha of Ikshvakhu race of the Kosala sovereignty; let the glorious Brahma tell me who really am I, and my origin.” To this query of Sri Rama, Brahma answered in these words, “O scion of Raghu you are the Lord Narayana, who wields the Sudarsana (discus), you are the divine Boar with a single tusk, at all times You are the subjugator of your enemies. O scion of Raghu your decree operates in all the worlds, you are the controller of senses, you are Sri Hari, you are the invincible Vishnu, you have the ability to be considerate, You have the might, the forbearance and the strength of will and self control. You are the divine dwarf; you are the Supreme Ruler Vishnu, who puts an end to all in battle, you are the mystic syllable OM you are the self created Lord. People neither know your origin, nor Your end, nor who You are; You alone are visible in all created beings. O Lord, night has been recognized as the closing of Your eyelids and the day the opening of Your eyelids; the suppressed thoughts in your mind appeared as Vedas; Sita is none other than your divine consort Goddess Lakshmi, You are Lord of created beings. You entered in a human semblance on this earth for the destruction of Ravana, this purpose You have completed; be glad to return to the Your Divine Abode. O Lord Your bravery is unswerving; singing Your praise is rewarding; those who are dedicated to you attain their desired objects; and will never be subject to battering of twinge and anguish.”
God of Fire restores Sita to her Lord:
After the lord of all created beings finished his say, the God of fire emerged from the blazing pyre with unscathed Videhan princess in his arms; Sita looked the same as she did before entering the inferno, adorned with glittering ornaments of gold, attired in a red robe, her garland of flowers was fresh and fragrant. The God of fire after restoring Maithili queen to her lord addressed Sri Rama in these words, “O king receive your blemish-less faithful queen, who was borne away from you by force, she was a helpless prey, subjected to intimidation, inducement, enticement by the robber monarch, the queen despised all the gambits, however she was in word, deed, and thought, resolute in her devotion to her lord.” Sri Rama; with his mind riveted to virtues, his eyes overflowing with tears; spoke out his mind, “I too am aware of Sita’s character, if I had accepted the queen without proof the vilifying tongues would fault my action as lust impelled love. Now the truth of stainless character of Sita is out before the huge gathering, I now own my dear spouse,” saying so he grasped his Sita in affectionate embrace.
Emperor Dasaratha in ethereal form:
Maheswara’s response to Sri Rama, “O scourge of your foes, in the incredible battle you have rid the earth and the heavens the dread of Ravana. Now you proceed to console miserable Bharata, as well as your illustrious mother Kausalya, see Kaikeyi, and Sumitra, bring delight to the near and dear, attain sovereignty of Ayodhya, propitiate the Lord; acquire high renown, let gentle sons of Sita perpetuate Ikshvaku race, thereafter ascend the heaven. O scion of Kakutstha, together with brother Lakshmana and Sita salute your celebrated father.” Raghu’s children obeyed the directive of Lord Siva, paid their obeisance to their effulgent father, a former ruler of the earth, clad in immaculate attire, seated in his aerial car. Placing Sri Rama in his lap, emperor Dasaratha spoke as follows, “Without you no place affords delight to me, dear son the cruel words spoken by Kaikeyi haunts me; I never forget her stratagem which culminated in your exile. Now when I look on each dear face and hold you in embrace; freed from all perils my heart overflows with ecstasy; I am rid of sorrow. I now discover you to be the Foremost Being dispatched in disguise to eliminate the tormenter Ravana; by you I have been relieved from the bondage of the plighted word given to Kaikeyi. Indeed it is Kausalya who is privileged to rejoice the returns from exile of her darling son, upon your return from exile blessed are those who gaze at you; an impressive achievement has been consummated by you; prestige and fame is yours, return to Ayodhya and commence your reign.” Consenting to the request of Sri Rama the emperor revoked the curse he had pronounced on Kaikeyi and Bharata, turning to Lakshmana he said, “You have rendered great service to Sri Rama and Sita, you are fortunate, secure your brother’s grace, and earn recognition in all the three worlds.” Approaching Sita the former emperor said, “No bitterness should be made known by you against this refutation of you by Sri Rama the feat of entering the flames will definitely overshadow the reputation of other women; it must be pointed out by me that to a woman, the spouse is the supreme deity.” Having spoken thus; majestic Dasaratha ascended the aerial car and returned to the dominion of Indra.
Indra’s benevolence:
Indra the slayer of demon Paka addressed Sri Rama, “O Sri Rama magnificent is the result of eternal thrill; please seek what you want.” Grateful Sri Rama made this reply, “O king restore to life all the dead Vanaras let their wound be healed, their strength and energy restored; I desire to see all Vanaras reunited with their near and dear. O bestower of respect on others let safe to eat roots, fruits of all seasons grow and purest stream of water flow wherever the monkeys live.” To the prayer of Sri Rama, the Lord of the skies replied, ‘I have never revised my offer; hence I grant this prayer of yours; the Vanaras slain by the giants shall be restored to life, healed of their wounds, regain their vitality, they shall now wake up as if risen from slumber.’ Retrieved from the Yama’s hall of gloom, the vanara legions crammed the land, gathered round their royal chief to pay their obeisance. The Gods praised Raghu’s son for his amazing exploits and urged him in these words, “O king for long your suffering has been one of anguish and apprehension, it is time now to show your appreciation to your devoted spouse, hasten to Ayodhya relieve dear Bharata of his vow, ease cherished Kauslaya’s despair, bring joy to your step mothers. Consecrated as the sovereign of Ayodhya gladden the hearts of every citizen,” having made this submission the Gods in their celestial cars sought their abode in the skies.
Sri Rama prepares to leave for Ayodhya:
After a quiet night’s rest, the following day Vibhishana greeted Sri Rama and informed him on the bathing amenities. The scion of Kakutsthsa replied to Vibhishana in these words, “Let the monkeys headed by Sugriva indulge in these comforts, as for myself I immediately desire to be in the company of Bharata, who has forsaken all comforts and is practicing stern asceticism for my benefit; the path to Ayodhya is protracted and tedious.” Vibhishana responded, ‘O scion of Raghu, you can cover the distance to Ayodhya in one day, in the divine aerial car Pushpak, which was seized by Ravana from the lord of riches, this well maintained chariot will soar through the air and you will reach the kingdom of Ayodhya without any discomfort. I am not constraining you, out of affection, admiration and thoughtfulness, I request you to rest here a while, be my privileged guest, accept this hospitality which has been arranged by me in accordance with the scriptures.’ Sri Rama again spoke to the gentle giant, “You have rendered precious service at great personal danger to your person, and you have helped me emerge victorious in the combat. I am scarcely in a position to refuse this request of yours, I have to meet Bharata; I crave to meet immediately my mother, the step-mothers and all those dear to me. Dear Vibhishana on no account any disappointment should be felt by you; also it is not advisable that I should linger out here any longer since my task is accomplished.” In deference to Sri Rama’s desire, Vibhishana hastily invoked the presence of the glittering aerial car (Pushpaka Vimanam) to the delight of the Ayodhyan princes. Sri Rama and Lakshmana were amazed to see the airborne car, which could go the world over at will and closely looked like a huge mass.
The leave-taking:
The aerial car having been readied, Vibhishana turned to Sri Rama seeking instructions. Sri Rama spoke as follows, “O ruler of the ogres, Vibhishana, Lanka has been subjugated by you with the involvement of these obdurate vanaras who thronged the Lankan shores, ignoring huge risk; they displayed their verve and nerve and installed you on the throne. As a tribute to their nobility reward them for their audacious accomplishments with gold, pearls gems, and other precious stones.” After seeing Vibhishana generously reward the vanaras, Sri Rama ascended the glittering car, with his embarrassed Sita in his arms, along with his valiant archer brother Lakshmana. Turning his attention to all those Sri Rama spoke, “O King Vibhishana, O Vanara chiefs, and all my friends with your support the daunting task was fearlessly fulfilled. Brave vanara warriors depart to your abode; ever righteous and faithful friend King Sugriva you now proceed with your hosts to begin your glorious reign in Kishkinda. Goodbye Vibhishana, the sovereignty of Lanka is yours, free of dread from the Gods, the demons, and even Indra. I proceed this very hour to my hereditary kingdom; Ayodhya.” The monkey chiefs, as well as the monkeys, the ogres and King Vibhishana, submitted to the Lord of men, ‘O scion of Raghu, we would like to stray the sweet groves of Ayodhya, we desire to witness your coronation, after paying our salutations to mother Kausalya we will return to our abode.’ Blissful Sri Rama spoke to the monkeys, Sugriva and Vibhishana these words, “Supreme joy will be mine, when I return to Ayodhya with all of you and meet my dear ones with all of you. Board the aerial car, O Sugriva, with your chiefs, O ruler of the ogres Vibhishana you too with your ministers ascend the car.” Soon Sugriva and other vanara chiefs, as also ruler of the ogres Vibhishana and the ogre ministers boarded the wondrous aerial car which soon was air-borne with the illustrious occupants.
The homecoming:
The aerial car with the hosts of the kings was presently air-borne; the scion of Kakutshta surveyed the earth beneath spoke to his spouse as follows, “O princess of Videhan territory, look at the city of Lanka built by the architect of the Gods; Viswakarma, located on the precipice of Trikuta mountain, similar to Mount Kailasa, look at those fields bloodied; swamped with flesh and blood the picture of carnage of the ogres and the monkeys. There is the area where the ruler of the ogres impelled by vanity, who took pride in inflicting cruelty on the people, the robber fiend who was granted the boon of invincibility by Brahma, was destroyed by me. It is at this very place mourning for the deceased spouse Ravana; the principal queen of the ogre monarch, Mandodari and thousand other consorts wailed and shed torrents of tears. Here is the open landing-place on the sea-shore; having crossed the ocean we slept for the night; this is the bridge called Nala-Setu constructed by the monkey chief Nala. O Maithili look at the unflappable ocean which is swarming with pearls and shells, see the golden mountain Mainaka; also called Hiranyanabha, this mountain rose from the ocean to provide respite to Hanuman. Here is the island in the heart of the ocean where my troops were stationed, before they crossed over to Lanka. On this spot Lord Siva bestowed his grace on me he appeared in the form of Linga; he acknowledged my worship as Lord Rameswara; before the construction of the bridge. Here is the sacred place where the construction of well known bridge known by the name Sethubanda, a place supremely sacred and it is at this place Vibhishana made his first appearance before me. Now we are over the Kishkinda coppice the seat of king Sugriva’s reign, it is here I had slain Vali; the mighty brother of Sugriva, besides there is the Risyasrunga Mountains where I first met Sugriva and he made the faithful promise of assistance. Acceding to the yearning of Sita; that Tara and the spouses of Vanara chiefs should be invited to visit Ayodhya with them; the car descended and the vanara matrons were quickly added to the party. Resuming the onward journey Sri Rama continued here is the Pampa Lake where in melancholy I let go a loud lament, and this is the place where the fierce giant Kabandha was killed by me. Sita this is Janasthana and there you see that glorious tree, where our noble and brave friend Jatayu was slain by the robber monarch while trying to rescue you. O lady this is this region known by the name Panchavati (comprising five banyan trees); it is here Ravana stole the darling of my soul, again look at the best of the watercourses Godavari where clear waters beautifully slide. Also seen here is the habitat of sages Agastya, Suthiksna, Sarabanga and Sage Attri (whose wife is the virtuous Anasuya) it is in this area Viradha was killed by me. Now let your eyes feast at the sight of the Lord of the mountains Chitrakoot; where Bharata beseeched me to return to Ayodhya, here is the enchanting Yamuna, the hermitage of the sage Bharadwaja is seen here, now you see the holy river Ganga whose banks are swarmed with all kinds of birds and thicket. We now see the town Srungaverapura, the abode of Guha, and we see the river Sarayu, festooned with sacrificial posts. I witness the glittering steeples, this is the city of Ayodhya, the seat of governance of my deceased father, greet our home, our long lost home salutations to Ayodhya.” The monkeys and the ogres for their part also surveyed the splendid city of Ayodhya which vied with Amaravati the city of Indra. The city of Ayodhya was adorned with rows of yellowish whit mansions, intersected with wide streets crowded with elephants and horses a splendid, enchanting city.
At the abode of Sage Bharadwaja:
At the instance of Sri Rama the aerial chariot halted at the abode of the saint Bharadwaja, after paying obeisance to the sage Sri Rama enquired, “O Sage, I like to hear from you the welfare and the afflictions faced by the populace of Ayodhya under the reign of Bharata, also please tell me the condition of my mothers.” The sage replied thus, ‘O scion of Raghu, attired as an anchorite Bharata is truthful to your sway; he is constantly waiting for your safe return; all is well in Ayodhya and in your home as well. I was overwhelmed with concern when I saw you attired as an ascetic, firm in your resolve to uphold the plighted words of your father proceeding to the woods as an exiled prince; accompanied by Sita and Lakshmana. My clairvoyant eyes have seen your glorious deeds, your eradicating the scare from the fiends in the minds of the Brahmans; your anguish in Janasthana when your irreproachable spouse Sita was abducted, and your decisive triumph over the Rakshasas. Today I will be your host, I have spent several years in penance, seek a boon from me.’ Sri Rama respectfully accepted the offer of the holy sage, he accepted the hospitality offered and sought this boon from the sage; “O venerable sage, let all the trees on the way to Ayodhya, bear fragrant flowers, flow with honey, bear fruits that entice the monkeys.” The sage conferred this boon and immediately thereafter all the trees in the region were thick with fruits, fragrant flowers and honeycomb; even the trees hat had withered were clothed with foliage again. On reaching the outskirts of Ayodhya the vanaras in their multitudes leapt from the aerial car and feasted on the several heavenly fruits.
Hanuman as Sri Rama’s emissary:
Before landing at the Ashram of the sage Bharadwaja, Sri Rama saw Ayodhya at a distance, he called the reliable Hanuman to his side and said; “Tell my friend Guha, the lord of Nisadas, residing in the Sringaverapura Sita, Lakshmana and myself are safe, sound and free from discomfort. After completing our period of exile we are now going to Ayodhya; pleased with the information he will guide you to Ayodhya. Quickly reach Ayodhya, greet my brother Bharata, and tell him that I have returned with Lakshmana and Sita together with Vanara Lord Sugriva and the ogre lord Vibhishana. Speak to him of the abduction of Sita by the mighty Ravana; my alliance with Sugriva; killing of Vali in combat by me; tell him of how you traced Sita, and after crossing the lord of rivers (Sea) Ravana was killed in the battle. Also tell him of the bestowal to me of boons by Indra, Brahma, and Varuna and of my meeting my father in ethereal form through the grace of the Lord Siva. Vigilantly watch for expressions of joy or grief on Bharata’s countenance, his mind and resolve as well, if in the course of his involvement with sovereignty he has grown desirous of power let him continue. O Vanara you must comprehend the situation and quickly report to me at the abode of Sage Bharadwaja; prior to our departure from there.” Rapidly assuming human form Vayuputra was air-borne; he crossed the formidable confluence of Ganga and Yamuna; reached Sringaverapura, conveyed to Nishada Lord, Sri Rama’s message and was on course to his next destination. En-route Hanuman came across the rivers Valukini, Varuthini and Gomati whose waters were made hallow by the association with Parasurama; as also the formidable forests and dense populace inhabiting the kingdom of Kosala. After traversing a long distance the Vanara reached the vicinity of the picturesque Nandigrama; resembling the celestial Chaitraratha, here he saw Bharata; clad in the attire of a hermit, pale, frail, haggard, casting aside his royal pomp, firm in his vow administering the kingdom, with the revered Sandals of Sri Rama as the royal leader. Vayuputra in the guise of a man with hands raised up in veneration talked to Bharata, ‘I bring to you the fond greetings from Sri Rama, discard your sorrow, you will soon be reunited with your Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. After having slain the mighty Ravana; your eldest brother recovered abducted Sita, he is now approaching Ayodhya with his numerous friends.’ Bharata swooned on hearing the joyous news, recovering in quick time he embraced Hanuman and drenched him with his tears of joy and spoke, “Are you a man or God swayed by pity on me you convey this wondrous tidings, I reward you with countless kines, hundred villages and spotless graceful dames to be your wives.” Ecstatic Bharata, seized with joy at the prospect of his reunion with Sri Rama began to speak to Hanuman again.
Hanuman recounts:
Bharata spoke as follows, “In misgivings and trepidation long years have passed and now arrives the wonderful news; definitely the old maxim that to the surviving man great ecstasy appears only once in hundred years is true; now tell me in detail Sri Rama’s every miseries and conquests; his disappointments and achievements as well.” Thereafter Hanuman began to recount thus; ‘O mighty Bharata I now narrate the activities of Sri Rama; from the time you returned with the sandals of Sri Rama. When Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana infiltrated deep into the Dandaka woods, he was confronted by the mighty ogre Viradha, whom he got rid of. At dusk on that day they reached the reached the exquisite ashram of the Sage Sarabangha and greeted all the anchorites there. After sage Sarabanga had ascended heaven Sri Rama moved to Janasthana when the amorous ogress Surpanakha the sister of the giant king Ravana sought him, directed by his elder brother, Lakshmana cut off the ogress’ ears and nose. Incensed at the treatment meted out to Surpanaka, fourteen thousand ogres dispatched by the ogre leader, Khara were massacred by Sri Rama in a fraction of a day. Not only were the ogres who hindered the ascetics in their austerities were completely wiped out even their leaders, Khara, and Dushana too were slain; compelling distraught Surpanaka to seek refuge with Ravana. Ravana proceeded to Janasthana with his hanger-on Maricha disguised as an enchanting deer to lure Sri Rama and Lakshmana away from Sita. Ravana forcibly abducted the defenseless Sita and proceeded to Lanka, en-route he fatally wounded the vulture king Jatayu who ventured to rescue the Videhan princess. When the robber fiend was thus fleeing, we in amazement saw the aerial car with the ogre lord clench Sita in his arms and make his entry into Lanka. After lodging the Mithilan princess at Lanka the ogre lord tried in vain to comfort his captive with flattering words. Ignoring persuasions and threat of the fierce ogre king, Sita was not scared; instead she was steadfast in her loyalty to her Lord. Subsequent to killing the ogre Maricha masquerading as deer, Sri Rama was startled to find Sita missing from the hermitage, agonized scion of Kakutstha set out in search of his spouse. In the course of his search for the Videhan princess he saw the vulture king Jatayu killed by the robber fiend. Traversing the banks of Godavari, the royal brothers entered the vast woodlands when they were confronted by an ogre Kabandha whom they killed and on his counsel they entered the Rishyamukha hill and came in contact with the vanara lord Sugriva; who himself was exiled by his angry brother Vali. Meeting of hearts through affinity had taken place even before they met, after mutual talks insightful affection arose between Sri Rama and Sugriva. The scion of Kakutstha killed Vali with a single arrow and restored sovereignty to Sugriva. To search for the Videhan princess the vanara lord sent ten crores of monkeys to all corners of the globe, in the course of my search I met Sampati the powerful brother of Jatayu who informed me of Sita dwelling in the palace of Ravana. Inspired and rejuvenated at this information I leapt across the deep; I found a tormented cheerless and unflinching (in her vow of conjugal fidelity), Sita living alone in a grove of Asoka trees. After restoring her to confidence I returned to the shores to convey the pleasant tidings to the lord of men and the lord of the monkeys. Next setting the path for destruction of the robber monarch, Sri Rama with the countless simian ranks proceeded to Lanka. In the fierce encounter the ogre race was extirpated and the Mithilan queen permanently restored to her Lord. After the death of Ravana the Gods; Indra, Yama, Siva, Brahma, and your revered father appeared in ethereal form; conferred boons which Sri Rama gratefully accepted. After the conclusion of the obliteration of the ogre race Sri Rama joyously flew into Kishkinda and having crossed the banks of the holy Ganga Sri Rama has halted for a day at the abode of sage Bharadwaja and will return here tomorrow,’ Bharata expressed his delight at the narrative.
Preparations in Ayodhya for the welcome of Sri Rama:
Delighted to hear the news, Bharata directed Satrugna to get Ayodha ready for the rousing reception to be accorded to Sri Rama. He commanded, “Let every shrine be festooned with aromatic flowers, prayers be offered to family deities in every house and in every shrine as well, melodious music be played at all places, let the pathways in the city be unobstructed and sprinkled with cold water; perfectly decorated; let those well versed in the recitation of Vedic hymns assemble. All the queen mothers headed by Kausalya and the other wives of Emperor Dasaratha, the Brahmanas, the Kshtriyas and others gather to welcome home, our triumphant Lord Sri Rama;” Satrugna ensured faithful compliance. To welcome the Kosala king the passageway from Nandigrama to Ayodhya was freed of interruptions, sprinkled with parched grains, showered with cold water, and fragrant flowers, the fluttering royal ensigns from the towers, and all these made the decorations wholesome. The entourage welcoming Sri Rama comprised, the ministers seated on the elephants, followed by the charioteers, the foot soldiers, then trailed the acknowledged and ultimate head of the family unit Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi and other queens of the emperor Dasaratha all reached Nandigrama. Cheerful Bharata in the midst of foremost of Brahmanas, with Sri Rama’s sandals on his head, a sunshade adorned with garlands, whisks decked with gold, and the members of the mercantile community, went in advance to meet his brother. The entire city of Ayodhya gathered at Nandigrama accompanied by the roars of elephants, echoes of conches, the sway of the drums and all made the earth quiver. With no clue of Sri Rama in the horizon despondent Bharata questioned Vayuputra in these words, “I do not see any vanaras, nor the vanquisher of the foes, Sri Rama, O Hanuman have you uttered these sweet words to enthrall me and in the process exhibited simian frolic.” Hanuman revealed the truth; “Listen to the bees humming around the honeycomb, look at the trees in bloom and yielding unseasonal fruits, O Bharata, all this is as a result of Sage Bharadwaja’s boon conferred on Sri Rama. Hear the vanaras shouting, that declares they are about to cross Gomati river, I see the radiant aerial car Pushpak, designed by Brahma which was Ravana’s pride till his death. There look at the Royal brothers with the rescued queen, also see Vibhishana, Sugriva the vanara lord, and the retinue.” After Hanuman finished the deafening shout, “It is Sri Rama, It is Sri Rama,” filled the air, the young and the old alike got down to the ground focusing their vision on to the Royal hero. Deep in thought Bharata raised his hands in reverence, and after the celestial car descended on to the ground Bharata once more greeted his brother, who placed him in his lap as a show of affection. Bharata then saluted Lakshmana; Mithilan queen, he also embraced all the vanara royals who assumed human form. Turning to Sugriva he said, “With you in our fold, we now are five brothers; we recognize friends by empathetic acts; and a foe by felony and dishonesty,” turning to Vibhishana; Bharata said, “By divine intervention a particularly difficult task has been consummated by you.” Shatrugna paid his obeisance to his brothers and venerated Sita’s feet. Sri Rama grasped the feet of his mother Kausalya, who appeared pale and shrunken through grief, spoke to her tender words of comfort, next in order he greeted Sumitra the mother of Lakshmana, and the illustrious Kaikeyi; who fetched renown to Sri Rama and joy to Rishis, Gods, and to the universe. Sri Rama proceeded to greet all his mothers and bowed before the family priest Vasistha. The one hundred thousand citizens of Ayodhya greeted in one voice, ‘Welcome Kausalya’s delight and pleasure, Sri Rama your arrival is sacred.’ Virtuous Bharata placed the sandals at the feet of Sri Rama and said, “At last I am blessed, my king please receive sovereignty of the kingdom from me, review the exchequer, storehouses, the army and palace. Everything has increased ten times by virtue of your moral influence. My birth, my life is rewarded, in that this day Sri Rama comes to rule his own kingdom of Ayodhya.” Moved by affection and placing Bharata in his lap Sri Rama again flew with the entire simian army to Nandigrama where Bharata led the life of a hermit, after alighting from the aerial car Sri Rama bade the aerial car to the abode of the God of riches (Kubera) the true owner of the car. Kubera when he beheld his chariot directed the chariot in these words; “Go and carry Sri Rama and come to me when I call/think of you,’ the chariot returned to Sri Rama and he honored it when he heard what was conceded. Seeing the overwhelming exhibition of affection amongst the brothers; the monkeys and also the ogre king Vibhishana shed copious tears.
Sri Rama’s consecration:
As a mark of reverence Bharata placed the joined palms on his head and submitted to Sri Rama, “O king, I am unskilled in the art of administration; I could barely follow in your footsteps; the burden was overwhelming, yet the kingdom in one piece is now restored to you. The people want your reign to begin; let all the eager eyes watch your consecration rites,” and Sri Rama assented. Bharata, Lakshmana, Sugriva, Vibhishana bathed first, and Sri Rama bathed after the tensors’ tidied his mangled hair, and in impressive attire he emerged effulgent; Sita assisted by the widowed queens was adorned in a glittering array of ornaments and garments, and the highly rejoiced Kausalya adorned all the wives of the vanaras. In the celebrated city of Ayodhya with Sage Vasitha at the helm, the ministers planned the coronation of Sri Rama. In deference to the command of Satrughna, the charioteer minister Sumantra appeared before Sri Rama with an immaculate swift moving car drawn by stallions, which Sri Rama ascended, together with the celebrated consorts of Sugriva and queen Sita, all of them eager to behold the city of Ayodhya. Bharata assumed the role of the charioteer, Shatrugna held the parasol in his hands Lakshmana and the ogre lord Vibhishana held the whisks. After shower, dressed in robes of grandeur and bejeweled with sparkling studs Sugriva rode on a huge elephant named Satrumjaya, Hanuman and the monkeys assumed human semblance rode on nine thousand elephants to Ayodhya . At gates of Ayodhya the denizens greeted the dazzling in splendor Sri Rama surrounded by his three brothers with shouts of joy, detonation of conches with thunderous reverberations, and exclamations, ‘Here he comes, Here he comes.’ Brahamanas, musical group merrily singing celebratory songs, cows and virgins escorted by the members of the twice born group marched ahead, throwing desiccated grains tinted with turmeric powder. Sri Rama then talked to his counselors about his coalition with Sugriva, the valor of Hanuman the exploits of vanaras and his meeting with Vibhishana. On reaching the city of Ayodhya, he entered the palace of his father, reverently greeted his mother Kausalya and the step mothers Sumitra and Kaikeyi as well. Next the king spoke to Bharata, “Allot the vanara lord Sugriva the best of my palace to stay.” Sugriva having been comfortably lodged, Bharata requested Sugriva, “Dear friend, I request you to send out messengers to fetch sea-water for the consecration of Sri Rama on the throne of Ayodhya,” Sugriva gave four chiefs viz. Jambhavan, Hanuman, Gavaya, Rsabha four golden pails to fetch seawater from the four seas. The aforesaid chiefs brought sea-water from the seas; another five hundred monkeys brought water from five hundred different rivers in the various parts of the country in different containers. Shatrugna through his ministers placed the water brought by the vanaras at the disposal of the chief priest of the Ikswaku race; Vasistha, who prevailed upon Sri Rama to duly occupy the throne along with his consort Sita. Sages Vasistha, Vamadeva, Jabali, Kasyapa, Suyagna, Gautama, and Vijaya as officiating priests, caused Sri Rama to be consecrated first with pure limpid water, then followed the ceremony of consecration by sixteen virgins, ministers, warriors, and the merchants in that order. The sages allowed him to be strewn with the juice of all kinds of medicinal herbs, by all the four Gods, as well as all the other celestials assembled there and standing in the air. After the ceremony of consecration the king was invested with the ancestral diadem, this crown was created by Brahma with which Vaivaswata (Manu) was adorned when consecrated. At Indra’s instance, the Wind God presented the king with golden garland of lotuses; a necklace of pearls blended together with gems was given by Mahendra. Gods themselves, and the celestials sang, celestial nymphs danced on the occasion of consecration of Sri Rama. On the hallowed day the earth was covered with crops bearing grains, the trees bore fruits; fragrance from the flowers filled the air. The pride of Raghu gave the Brahmanas, thousands of milch cows, hundreds of bulls, robes, wealth, and gold; to friend Sugriva he gave heavenly lustrous garland made of gold, gems and precious stones, to Vali’s son Angada he gifted a lovely pair of armlets, to his spouse Sita he conferred the golden garland bestowed on him by the wind God. Janaka’s daughter holding the pearl necklace on her neck with intent to bestow a gift on Hanuman, she pensively looked at her lord, who responded, “Yes bestow that chain on him, whose wisdom, might, and truth we are aware; he was our firm ally, a faithful friend throughout our periods of peril and toil.” Ornamented with that jewel, Vayuputra was a picture of burnished mountain. All the vanara chieftains and Vibhishana were rewarded with raiment and ornaments according to their rank, having witnessed the consecration Sugriva came back to Kishkinda with the vanara hosts and Vibhishana re-entered the city of Lanka with the ogres having inherited the sovereignty of Kishkinda and Lanka respectively. Sri Rama the ruler of the Kosala kingdom consecrated Bharata as the prince regent after Lakshmana despite repeated pleas did not consent. During the rule of Sri Rama for eleven thousand years Ayodhya of was blessed with peace, no house was desolate, no widow to mourn the loss of her spouse, drought never visited the land, there was no danger from the beasts of prey, and the kingdom remained free from diseases and grief, the people lived a life of rectitude and were devoted to pious observances no elders had the misfortune of performing the obsequies of youngsters. The Earth supplied her produce, no harvest failed, no children died, unknown were want disease and crime, calm and happy was the time. Anyone who listens to this epic composed by Sage Valmiki and sustains Vedas is completely rid of sins, he who seeks son obtains sons, seeker of wealth obtains riches, he who seeks to be reunited with relatives will be reunited with relatives and rejoice with them, will have living sons, and overcomes difficulties.
ALL OBSTACLES COMING IN THE WAY OF AN INDIVIDUAL IN WHOSE HOUSE A COPY OF THIS EPIC EXISTS DEFINITELY COME TO AN END. WOMAN LISTENING TO IT PRIOR TO PREGNANCY WILL GIVE BIRTH TO SONS WHO ARE UNSURPASSED BY ANOTHER IN POINT OF EXCELLENCES. MAY THE POWER OF LORD VISHNU GROW IMMENSELY!! CONFIDENTLY REPEAT IT SO SAY THE PRINCES LAVA AND KUSA THE SONS OF SRI RAMA.
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