5 Sundarkand 60

Sri Ramcharitra Manas

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E Sundarkand - Shloka Sri Ram, Universal Lord, Raghus chief line, kings crest-jewel, I am adoring, Store-house of compassion, dispeller of sins, in the human form appearing, Greatest of gods, knowable through Vedanta; Brahma, Shiv Sesa be revering, Supreme peace bestower, eternal, beyond cognition, sinless, all-pervading. Lord of the Raghus, deep in my heart there is but for you, no other yearning, I speak the truth and You are the Spirit in the heart of all therein dwelling, Crest-jewel of Raghus, please grant me devotion to your feet I am longing, And free my mind from culpabilities like the worldly desires and cravings. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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To the son of Wind-God, the beloved devotee of Sri Ram, I am saluting, Monkey Chief, source of virtues, formost amist the wise, I am bowing, His body shining as a gold mountain and infinite strength possessing, With fire to consume the whole of the demon race, to him I am bowing. .* * * Hanuman was delighted at heart to hear Jambavants speech heartening, He said Hardships of living on bulbs, roots, fruits await me and sufferings, Our objective will be achieved I am certain, wait for Ma Sita and my meeting, The he bowed, set out with joy, with Sri Rams image in his heart enshrining. On the hill top he lightly sprang, Hero of Raghus line repeatedly invoking, He leaped with his might and the hill under his foot to `Patal was sinking, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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As the unerring shaft of Sri Ram, Hanuman was then expeditiously speeding, Presiding ocean Deity bid Mainika to relieve his fatigue permit his resting. Hanuman touched the mountain and made obeisance to it so saying, There can be no rest for me until I accomplish Sri Rams bidding. 1 To test his strength and intelligence when Gods saw him so speeding, The sent Suras, mother of serpents, who neared him and began saying, The gods have provided a meal today but on these words hearing, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Hanuman said, Let me return after Sri Rams errant accomplishing. Then I shall approach you and enter your mouth the truth I am telling, When she did not agree he said, Devour me if the capacity you be having, She distended her mouth to eight miles, he the size of her mouth doubling, She stretched to a hundred and twenty miles he again was repeating. When she further expanded her mouth eight hundred miles wide gaping, The wind-gods son became minute and so in her mouth he was entering, He came out again and begged leave to proceed, his head to her bowing, I have gauged your wit and strength, for which I was sent she proclaiming. You store-house of strength, intelligence Sri Rams work you do unfailing, Hanuman, joyful and sanctified then continued after receiving her blessings. 2 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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A demoness who caught birds in air by her tricks - in the ocean dwelling, On surface of the water when refection of the creature she was seeing, She would capture the bird, which was still, and then would be devouring, She tried the same trick against Hanuman, but he throught it as seeing. Son of the wind-god dispatched her, then across the ocean went sweeping, Resolutly reached the other shore and gazed on forest with bees humming, Various trees with fruits, flowers, birds and beasts his heart delighting, And seeing a huge mountain ahead of him, ran up to its summit unfearing. The chief of monkeys, O Uma (Parvati), no credit for it he be deserving, It attributed to the Lords glory who devours death himself unfailing, He surveyed Lanka, a marvellous fortress that description was defying, It was high, enclosed by ocean, ramparts of gold-shed lustre shining. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Enclosed by fortification walls of gold inlaid with precious stones charming, Beautiful houses, cross roads, bazzars, lovely streets decorations containing, With numerous elephants, horses, mules, crowds of foot soldiers roaming, Charriots and troops of demons of all shapes a tough host unmatching. Groves and orchards, garden and parks, lakes and wells look unmatching, Girls, Nagas, gods, celestial musicians, minds of even hermits enrapturing, Here mighty wrestlers with huge mountain-like form were seen grappling, With one another in may ways in different courts to duel but challenging. Diligently guarding the city, Myriads of champions frightful form possessing, Vile demons feasted on buffaloes, humans, cows, donkeys, goats bloating, They will die of Sri Rams arrow truly and so their story Tulsidas is telling, And thereby the supreme state of Lord in his kingdom they will be attaining. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Chief of monkeys thought to himself on the host of city guards defending, Let me assume a very minute form and enter the city at night undetecting. 3 Hanuman assumed a form small as a gnat, the lord in human resembling, At the gate-way to Lanka a demoness christened as Lankini was residing, She said Fool, where do you go every thief is my food as he was avoiding, The great monkey dealt her blow - she dropped down with blood vomiting. Recovering Lankini stood up, joint her palms, to him humbly addressing, When Brahma granted Ravan the boon, He said to me while departing, If you are hurt by a monkeys blow know that the demon race is ending, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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I must have some merit with the sight of Sri Rams messenger to be having. If one side of the balance delights of heaven and beatitude be resting, They are far outweighed with the joy of communion with saits deriving. 4 Enter accomplish your work with Lord of Ayodhya in your heart enshrining, Poison transforms into nectar, foes to friends, even the ocean contracting, Fire cools, Mount Meru a said of grain be, on who Sri Rams glance is gracing, Hanuman assumed a minute form, entered the city, with Sri Ram invoking. He ransacked every mansion, saw countless worriors here and there running, Then made his way into Ravans palace marvellous beyond words glowing, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Hwe saw the demon chief in slumber but Vedehis daughter wasnt residing, Then was another grand building, with the sacred temple of Sri Hari standing. On its walls, weapons of Sri Ram, beautiful beyond words, were depicting, The monkey chief rejoiced to see the clusters of young `tulsi plants growing. 5 Lanka, abode of demon gangs, how could a pious man be here residing, Vibhishan , Ravans younger brother, woke as Hanuman was so reasoning, He was elated to find a virtuous soul Sri Rams name in prayer repeating, I shall meet this good man as my cause at his hands can not be suffering. Having so resolved, he accosted Vibhishan , in a brahmans form assuming, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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When he heard Hanumans words, he rose and came where he was standing, He enquired the Brahmans welfare, Who are you, holy Sir? low bowing, Are you Sri Haris servant or Sri Ram Himself who arrives with his blessings? Then Hanuman told him all about Sri Ram and even his identity disclosing, Joy ran through the body of both of Sri Rams host of virtues then thinking. 6 My plight similar to that of the tongue midst the teeth its how I am living, Will Lord of the Sun Race ever show His grace to me masterless knowing, Endowed as I am with a sinful form and incapable of any `sadhana doing, My heart cherishes no love of the Lords lotus feet yet I need his blessings. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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But I am confident Hanuman, Sri Rams grace on me will be showering, For no one can ever encounter a saint, with out Sri Haris grace be having, It is only because the Raghus race Hero has been kind to me and smiling, That you have sanctified me with your vision unsolicited yet so pleasing. Listen Vibhishan , the Lords way of affection to his servants be unrelenting, Tell me what superior birth can I claim, a frivolous monkey, vile in everything, So much so that if anyone mentions our name very early in the morning, He is guaranteed to go without food that day even if he be ever so trying. Though I am wretched, the Hero of Raghus race has me been but gracing, And Hanumans eyes filled with tears, as he the virtues of Lord be recalling. 7 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Who know yet forget Him, go adrift and be unhappy there be no wondering Hanuman derived unspeakable solace with Sri Rams virtues thus recounting, Then Vibhishan fully narrated how Janakas Daughter had here been living, Thereupon Hanuman said, Brother, Mother Sita I would like to be seeing. Vibhishan then comprehensively enlightened the method of Sita seeing, And Son of the wind-god took leave and proceeded on his errand striving, Resuming his minute form he went to Ashok grove where Sita was dwelling, As soon as he saw Ma Sita, Hanuman, with respect, was mentally bowing. She had been squatting away the hours of the night lonely and crying, Depressed, unaided, and yet with Sri Rams anticipation ever hoping, Emaciated in body, She wore a single braid of matted hair in grieving, And to Herself, the list of Sri Rams excellences she was ever repeating. Her eyes fixed on her feet, mind in thought of Sri Rams lotus feet absorbing, Son of wind-god felt supremely miserable on Janakas Daughter so seeing. 8 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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He mused What should I do? among the leaves of a tree concealing, At that moment Ravan arrived with a troop of women accompanying, Through advice, allurements, threats, hostility tried upon her prevailing, And she disdained all his advances with all her strength and feeling. Lovely, wise lady, Mandodari and all queens your handmaids Ill be making. I swear, provided you cast your look on me only once with love flowing. With a blade of grass between Herself and Ravan, Sita be then interposing, Fixing thoughts on Her beloved Sri Ram, Videhas Daughter was rejoining. Ten-headed monster! Can a lotus flower in glow of a fire-fly be expanding? Ponder this at heart, as what Sri Rams shafts are like you have no inkling, You carried me at a time when there was none by my side for protecting, You do not feel ashamed, O vile and impudent rogue! Itll be your undoing. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Sri Ram compared to the sun and himself like to a glow-worm hearing, Exasperated at Her harsh words, the monster drew out his sword saying. 9 Sita, have insulted me, I will cut off your head with my sword unrelenting, If you do not want that, conform my command and agree to my pleading, Or else you lose your life, O beautiful lady, this is your ultimate warning, Thus he anticipated to get her submission with threats so condescending. The arms of my lord is lovely as a string of blue lotuses ever so becoming, Shapely, long as the elephants trunk, Ten-headed monster you be watching, Either that arm or your dreadful sword will have my neck, it be my longing, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Hear, this is my solemn vow, fool to Ravans glittering scimitar she turning. Do remove, O Candrahasa, the anguish and pain of my heart ever burning, Caused by fire of separation from Lord of the Raghus, for who I am yearning, You possess a cool, sharp, good blade, relieve my sorrow, I am pleading, Ravan then dashed forward to execute her on these words of Sita hearing. Then Queen Mandodari (Mayas daughter) with good counsel was pacifying. Summoning all demonesses who were posted there, he said still smarting, Go intimidate and terrorize Sita in every way and if she is still unrelenting, In a months time I will draw my sword and behead her none fearing. The ten headed Ravan returned to his palace with these instructions issuing, While the fiendesses then assumed various hideous forms, Sita intimidating. 10 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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One demoness, Trijata, devoted to Sri Rams feet spiritual wisdom having, Told her friends of her dream and urged them to serve Sita get blessings, A monkey burnt lovely Lanka and all demons were killed I was dreaming, Ravan naked, with heads shorn, twenty arms chopped off, on donkey riding. Thus he went south his way; and Lanka into hands of Vibhishan was passing, Sri Rams victory by beat of drums throughout the city all were proclaiming, It was then that the Lord Sri Ram for his treasured wife Sita was summoning, All dejected to hear her words and at Janaka Daughters feet were falling. They all dispersed in numerous directions and Sita anxiously was thinking, This vile monster will slay me, after end of a long month will be my ending. 11 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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She said to Trijata, You my companion in hardship, with palms joining, Give me means to shed this body, as more misery I am inept of enduring, Bring wood, create a pyre, light it, so my love for my Lord, Ill can proving, Mother, I cant stand Ravans words - like a shaft my ears are pierceing. On hearing this she clasped Sitas feet, comforted her by recounting, The splendour, strength, glory of Her Lord which dares understanding, Listen lady, no fire can be had at night, she left for her abode, so saying, Sita thought Heaven is hostile, my agony even fire can not be curing. Sparks of fire are visibly in heaven, not a single star to earth be dropping, The moon refuses to rain sparks, knowing my misery, yet it be glowing, Ashok tree leaves bear flames colour give me fire, my agony is unbearing, This moment seemed ages to Hanuman, as Sita so distressed he was seeing. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Hanuman, the monkey chief, dropped the signet ring within self thinking, As if the tree flung a spark - Sita sprang with joy, her hands the ring grasping. 12 Seeing name of her Lord, Sri Ram, beautifully engraved on the ring charming, Recognizing it she looked with wonder, a tense heart, joy and sorrow feeling, Who can conquer invincible Lord, his divine ring can not be Maya conjuring As Sita lost in fancies, Hanuman recounted Sri Rams praises so uttering. The moment Sita heard, her grief took flight, with full attention was listening, As Hanuman re-counted the story of Lord Sri Ram from the actual beginning, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Why you telling his tale, which as nectar to my ears, not self be revealing? Then Hanuman neared Sita, as she amazed, with her back to him was sitting. I am Sri Rams envoy Mother Janaki, by the All-Merciful Lord I am swearing, O Mother, Sri Ram gave me this ring as a token for you that I am serving, What brought this fellowship between man and monkey Sita was asking, Hanuman clarified how a union between men and monkeys was thriving. As she heard the monkeys loving words, her soul trusted him unwavering, He a servant of her merciful Lord in thought, word and deed she identifying. 13 She developed warmth for him when he as Sri Haris devotee she was seeing, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Her beautiful eyes filled with tears, a thrill through her body so captivating, Dear Hanuman, you as a bark to me who in ocean of despair was drowning, Tell me the welfare of all-blissful Sri Ram and Laxman I am pleading. Why tender-hearted and kind Lord of Raghus so hard-hearted becoming? Who by nature a delight source, does Raghus Chief be me remembering? Dear Hanuman will my eyes, by his swarthy, delicate limbs be delighting? Her eyes with tears, My lord! You have forgotten me her words failing. Hanuman spoke to Sita in softly, upset due to separation from lord seeing, The beloved Lord and his brother Laxman are both doing well I am apprising, Except that the all-merciful is mournful because of sorrow you are bearing, Do not vex my mother, Sri Ram loves you twice as you love him unwavering. Mother, hear message of Sri Ram, Lord of Raghus, yourself now controlling, As he said these words, his voice choked with emotion eyes with tears filling. 14 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Sri Ram said Since our separation, Sita, everything has been reversing, Even the tender leaves on the trees more like tongues of fire appearing, Nights dreadful as of final dissolution and moon like the sun blistering, Beds of lotuses as spears planted on ground and rain as boiling oil pouring. Those that were pleasant and friendly before have now become tormenting, The cool, soft and fragrant breezes feel like the breath of a serpent burning, Ones agony is eased even by speaking of it, but to whom shall I be speaking? For none can understand my suffering, it is just you that I have been missing. The reality of chord of love binding us dear, only my soul comprehending, My soul abides with you, this the essence of my love you are knowing, Videhas daughter unaware of body was lost in Lords message hearing, Said the monkey, Ma, fix thoughts on Sri Ram, my delight, self collecting.

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Demons as many moths, but shafts of the Lord of Raghus as flames burning, Have courage in your heart mother, consider for demons its their ending. 15 Had Hero of Raghus line known your whereabouts he wouldnt be lingering, When Sri Rams arrow glows as sun, demons as night shadows be scattering, Mother, I could take you to him now certainly, but for instruction am waiting, Wait patiently till the Hero of Raghus line with monkey troops be arriving. He will liberate you and all demons dwelling herein he will be slaughtering, As Narad and other sages will glorify him and Sri Ram all shall be revering, All monkeys pygmies like you, and demons are mighty I have misgivings, He then revealed His colossal, terrible, mighty form for Sitas comforting. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Listen mother, monkeys possess no strength or wit there be no doubting, Through Lords might, a snake swallowed Garud, king of birds, unthinking. 16 Sitafelt tranquil on total devotion and Sri Rams glory, strength hearing, Recognizing him as beloved of Sri Ram she gave Hanuman her blessings, You be a mine of strength, virtue, immune from old age, death overcoming, Good qualities storehouse my son, Lord of Raghus lavish grace showering. The instant May the Lord be gracious to you reached his ears satiating, Hanuman, the monkey chief, was submerged with emotions overwhelming, Repeatedly he bowed his head at her feet and with joined palms was saying, I have accomplished all required my mother, your blessing is ever unfailing. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Mother, on seeing these trees laden with fruits I have a hungry feeling, I tell you, my son, this grove the fearless and mighty demons are guarding, Mother, I am not at all frightened of them nor is my strength ever wanting, If I have your hearty approval, that is all I require for which I am waiting. Janaks Daughter said when the monkey perfect in strength and wit seeing, Go, my son, with your heart on Sri Rams feet and tasty fruits be enjoying. 17 Bowing his head entered the grove and after eating, started trees uprooting, The warriors as guards, some were killed by him, while rest flew help seeking, O lord, a huge hostile monkey has appeared and the Ashok grove is wasting, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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He eats fruits, uprooted trees, having crushed the watchmen goes killing. King Ravan despatched a number of his champions on this news hearing, Hanuman roared when he saw them, demon hosts he started slaughtering, Few survived though nearly killed, escaped and returned loadly screaming, For strength and might of monkey chief Hanuman, they were now fearing. The ten-headed King Ravan sent prince Aksha for this situation rectifying, Who attacked with a vast number of the best warriors he was commanding, Seeing them approach, Hanuman uprooted a tree and began threatening, Roared with a loud yell, having overthrown the prince began slaughtering. Some he slew, some he crushed, some he seized and with dust pounding, Some escaped cried, Lord, the monkey is too strong for us and is untiring. 18 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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The King of Lanka flew in a rage on the news of the death of his son hearing, Called mighty Meghanath and said Kill him not, my son, bind him securing, We need to ascertain from where he comes and know the real meaning, Meghanath, conqueror of Indra, then attacked forth, peerless, none fearing. Meghanath seized with passion at news of his brothers death was fuming, When Hanuman saw this warrior approach, he gnashed his teeth roaring, He tore a massive tree and smashed the carrage of Lankan prince carrying, By his limbs weight Hanuman then crushed the mighty warriors escorting. Finishing them off, he faced Meghanath, as lordly elephants encountering, Striking with his clenched fist Hanuman sprang and up a tree was climbing, Meghanath lay unconscious then rose to many a delusive device resorting, But the son of wind-god, Hanuman was not to be vanquished nor wanting. Meghanath finally to his bow the arrow known as Brahmastra was fitting, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Hanuman thought if I submit not now, Brahmas glory to wind be casting. 19 He launched the Brahmastra against Hanuman, who in falling a host crushing, As he saw the monkey swoon, he tied him in serpents noose fully controlling, Now, Parvati, Lords envoy whose name human existence bonds be freeing, How can he be bond - but he allowed himself to be bound in his Lord serving. Demons heard of this capture and rushed to court for spectacle enjoying, The monkey arrived, saw Ravans court, his superb glory description baffling, Gods, regents stood meek, movement of his eyebrows in dismay watching, But Hanuman undisturbed at his power as Garuda amidst snakes unminding. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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The ten-headed monster saw the monkey, he railed him and was laughing, But presently felt gloomy at heart for the death of his son he was recalling.. 20 Said Lankan King, Who are you, by whose might you the grove destroying? You never hear my name? You are an exceptionally bold wretch defying, For what transgression did you assassinate the Lankan demons uncaring, Tell me fool, are you not frightened of even your life you may be losing? Ravan, whose Maya (Nature) brings forth universes you need recalling, His might Brahma, Vishnu, Shiv - creation, preservation, destruction doing, Who the thousand-headed serpent on his head the globe be supporting, You need to remember Him for only then can now be your redeeming. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Who assumes various forms to protect gods and lessons to wretches giving, Who broke Shivs unbending bow, the pride of a host of princes so crushing, Who despatched Khara, Doosan, Trishira and Bali, in strength all unequalling, You need to remember Him He the compassion and strength of all having. By an iota of whose strength, the entire creation youve been conquering, Whose beloved spouse you stole, know me to be His envoy here arriving. 21 I am aware of your distinction with Sahasrabahu and Bali contesting, Ravan heard Hanuman but laughed, I ate fruits as hungry was feeling, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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And broke boughs and trees as any monkey would naturally be doing, Ones body, my master, is tremendously dear to all the forms of living. Those wicked fellows insist on hitting me, so I reacted with blows returning, Still Prince of Lanka, your son, Meghanath, put me in bonds after capturing, But I am not at all ashamed of being bound, as my lords cause I am serving, Ravan, give up your pride, heed my advice, with joined palms I am imploring. Think of your lineage, disillusion yourself, adore Him who fear is dispelling, Never antagonize Him who the source of terror, even Death is harbouring, All creation, animate and inanimate, gods as well as demons is devouring. Return the Daughter of Janak at my request - I am beseeching and bidding. Sri Ram, Kharas slayer, pleaders protector, ocean of compassion unending, He will forgive your offences, if His shelter and protection you are seeking. 22 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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With Sri Rams lotus feet in your heart your Lankan rule be uninterrupting, The glory of sage Pulastya (your grandfather) like a spotless moon be shining, Speech charmless without His name, minus arrogance, infatuation be seeing, A fair lady without clothes, if adorned with jewels is not herself commending. Fortune and lordship of any person who is hostile to Sri Ram will be leaving, Those rivers without perennial source dry up as soon as the rains are ending, Listen, I tell you on oath: there is none to save him who Sri Ram is opposing. Many Shankar, Vishnu and Brahma, enemy of Sri Ram cant be protecting. Pride, as darkness, rooted in ignorance and source of pain you be leaving, When Lord Sri Ram, Chief of Raghus, ocean of compassion you be adoring. 23 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Hanuman gave salutary advice - devotion, will, dispassion, wisdom flowing, Haughty Ravan laughed and said, A wise Guru in this monkey I am seeing! Death hangs over you, O wretch, and yet from you wise words are flowing, O vile monkey! It is that fear why with me you have started now exhorting. Just the contrary retorted Hanuman You under some illusion labouring, Thus King Ravan got nettled and Quickly kill this fool? was heard saying, As soon as the demons heard this, forward to kill him, they were rushing, While Hanuman in grandeur and composure was seen completely relaxing, Then Vibhishan , Ravans youngest brother, came with counsellors kneeling, Bowing his head said It is against all statecraft, an envoy must not be killing, He may be punished in some other way, my master. All then were agreeing, The ten-headed Ravan said, The monkey may return mutilated, laughing.



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A monkey is very fond of his tail, I tell you this secret he said smiling, Wrap his tail with rags soaked in oil - set it afirehe was commanding. 24 When the tail-less monkey returns, his master with him will be fetching, I shall his masters might, whom he has so lavishly exalted, be seeing, Goddess Sharada has proved helpful to me Hanuman to himself saying, The imprudent demons did as they were bid by Ravan now commanding. Not a rag in the city nor a drop of ghee (clarified butter) or oil remaining, Yet the tail grew to such a length through Hanumans playful gesturing, The citizens thronged to see the fun bemused and yet in awe watching, They kicked Hanuman and jeered at him lived in ignorance unfearing. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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With beating of drums, clapping of hands around the city had him walking, Then thereafter set fire to Hanumans tail unmindful, jesting and joking, Hanuman instantly assumed a diminutive size when he saw fire blazing, To demonesses shock leapt to gold palaces attics, after his bonds slipping. At that moment, impelled by God, all the forty-nine winds began blasting, Hanuman roared with a loud laugh, swelled to a size as though sky touching. 25 Though colossal, Hanuman nimble, from palace to palace was seen running, The city was all ablaze and the people were at their wits end now fearing, Terrible flames burst forth in myriads and piteous cries were now sounding, Father! Mother! Save us - he is no monkey but some god we are watching. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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The city is consumed by fire as if masterless for a noble soul despising, In the twinkle of an eye Hanuman burnt Lanka - Vibhishan s house leaving, He scorched the whole of Lanka and then jumped into the ocean blazing. Shiv said - Parvati, Hanumans safe as fire creators message was bearing. He resumed his diminutive form after quenching his tail and fatigue relieving, And stood before Janakas Daughter with joined palms now humbly pleading. 26 Be pleased Mother, give me a token, such as Lord gave me, I am praying, She unfastened Her head jewel, gave to the son of wind-god invigorating, Convey my obeisance to Him, dear son, My lord is all sufficient being, Recalling Your kindness vow to afflicted, relieve, my grievous pain stating. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Repeat, my son, episode of Indras son and His arrows might recalling, If the Lord does not arrive here within a month, he will not find me living, Tell me, Hanuman, how can I preserve my life; for you now speak of going, You brought relief to my heart, but some dreary days and nights are coming. Then Janakas Daughter he comforted Her in plentiful ways reassuring, And bowing his head at Her lotus feet, set forth for Sri Rams meeting. 27 He roared with terrible noise, wives of demons miscarried, when leaving. Leaping across ocean reached opposite shore, his fellowmonkeys greeting, They were delighted to see Hanuman and as if been born anew jubilating, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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His face cheerful and his body shone after Sri Rams mission achieving. They met him delighted as fish writhing without water would feel on getting, They gladly proceeded to see Lord of Raghus, latest events asking and telling, And entering Sugrivs garden* with Angadas consent then were fruits eating, When the guards interfered, they were beaten with fists till they left running.* Madhuvan

Approached Sugriv and whined Crown Prince, royal garden was wasting, Sugriv exulted for he resolved monkeys returned after Lords work doing. 28 If failed to get news of Sita, fruit of Madhuvan they wouldnt dare eating, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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While the king was so musing, monkey chiefs arrived with head bowing, Lord of monkeys received them warmly and after their welfare enquiring, By Rams grace the work is done and we are well, now your feet seeing. Hanuman, Your Majesty, did everything life of whole monkey hosts saving, Sugriv embraced him and proceeded with them to meet Sri Ram so hearing, When Sri Ram saw them approach, mission accomplished, He was delighting, The two brothers seated on a rock and all monkeys at their feet were falling. All-merciful Lord of Raghus hugged them with affection and welfare asking, All is well with us, after we have seen Your lotus feet, they responding. 29 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Said Jambavan, Lord of Raghus, he on whom You bestow Your blessings, Is lucky and constantly happy; gods, humans, sages are all kind and gracing, Is victorious, modest, ocean of virtues; his fame through all spheres shining; Everything turned out well by Your grace and our birth fulfilled in so doing. Achievement of Hanuman* with a thousand tongues cant be describing, Jambavan then related to the Lord of Raghus Hanumans exploits charming, The All-merciful delighted with joy to his bosom Hanuman was clasping, Hanuman, how Janakas daughter passes her days and life be sustaining?* the son of the wind-god

Your Name guards her night and day, Her thought of You as doors holding, Her eyes fastened on Her feet; Her life finds no other outlet for escaping. 30 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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She gave me this jewel from the top of Her head when I was leaving, The Lord of the Raghus took it and to His bosom he was then pressing, My lord, with tears in Her eyes Janakas Daughter spoke the following, Embrace the feet of my Lord and His younger brother while weeping. Befriender of the distressed, reliever of all of the suppliants suffering, I am devoted to Your feet in my thought, word and deed unquestioning, Why You forgot me? My only fault my life didnt end after our separating. That my lord, is my eyes fault, which forcibly averts my life from ending. Agony of our separation is like fire, my sighs as a gust of wind fanning, In between my body as a cotton heap - which should at once be burning? But both my eyes, in their own interest, a flood of tears has been raining, So my body burns not, Sitas distress is undescribable and overwhelming. Each single moment, O fountain of mercy, like an age to Her is passing, Therefore, march quickly, my lord, recover Her by miscreants vanquishing. 31 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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The all-blissful Lords tears rushed to his lotus eyes on Sitas agony hearing, Can my dependent in thought, word and deed be of adversity dreaming? Said Hanuman, No disaster other than to recall and adore You be ceasing, The demons are no match; You will bring back Ma Sita after enemy routing. None as you Hanuman, with body, god, human or sage been so obliging, Even my mind shrinks to face you; how, can I your obligation be repaying? My son, I have concluded the my debt cannot be repaid which I am owing, As Sri Ram gazed on Hanuman - eyes flowed, emotions were overpowering. Hanuman hearing his Lord, felt a thrill of joy and at His feet was falling, Save me from the tentacles of egoism, my Lord, with love was crying. 32 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Repeatedly Lord sought to raise him; but rapt in love he was not rising, Lords lotus hand rested on his head - Shiv* with emotions overcoming, But, recovering Himself, Shiv* resumed this most narrative charming Lifting Hanuman, He embraced him and seated him close, love flowing.* Gauris lord

Hanuman, Ravans stronghold, an secure fortress, how were you burning? When Hanuman found Lord so pleased, he replied with no pride flowing, Any monkeys greatest valour lies from one bough to another so skipping, All my acts due to Your might; no credit, my lord, is due to me so coming. My lord, to him who showers in Your grace, unattainable cant be knowing, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Your might, a cotton shred burns a submarine fire - impossible be nothing. 33 My lord, the source of supreme bliss, grant me your devotion unceasing, When Lord, O Parvati, heard Hanumans speech his wish He was granting, Uma, he who knows Rams true nature will but just His worship be relishing, Who takes Ram and Hanumans dialogue to heart - Rams feet is his blessing. The monkeys cried, Glory to the kind Lord, fountain of bliss! on so hearing, Lord of Raghus summoned Sugriv, King of monkeys and then was stating, Prepare to march, do not tarry, order the monkeys at once for proceeding, The gods rained flowers in profusion and then withdrew, this so witnessing. Sugriva summoned the commanders and in multitudes they presenting, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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The troops of monkeys and bears, all unequalled in strength so gathering. 34 The mighty bears and monkeys bowed at the Lords lotus feet then roaring, Ram surveyed the monkey hosts, on them His gracious lotuseyes casting, Inspired by His grace, monkey chiefs vied as mountains with wings equipping, Shi Ram sallied forth glad of heart with auspicious omens then occurring. Good omens appeared at His departure whose glory embodies all blessings. Videhas Daughter came to know of Lords march left her limbs throbbing, But what was a good omen for Janakas Daughter, evil for Ravan forebearing, Who could fully describe the army with countless monkeys, bears roaring? With no weapon but their claws, and rocks and trees enroute uprooting, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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They marched through air, water and land, unhampered and unyielding, The bears and monkeys roared like lions as they marched ahead unfearing, While elephants guarding eight cardinal points - in fear were trumpeting. Elephants trumpeted, earth rocked, mountains trembled, oceans stirring, Gandharvas, gods, sages, Nagas, Kinnaras, elated to perceive troubles ending, Formidable monkey warriors army in bellicose mood their teeth gnashing, And millions advanced Glory to Shi Ram, Kosalas lord his praises hymning. Even Shesa* found himself unable to bear the weight of troops crushing, Each time he the hard shell of the divine Tortoise with his teeth clutching, Scratches thus made by his teeth would make one imagine as if knowing, This departure of Shi Ram**, Shesa* on the Tortoises back was inscribing.* The great lord of serpents; ** the Hero of Raghus line


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The All-merciful marched this way and at the seashore halted on arriving, The army of brave bears and monkeys guttled fruits in the surroundings. 35 The demons there lived in terror since Hanuman left after Lanka burning, In their houses they held, There is no hope for the demon race fearing, If His envoy was so mighty, what would result when Sri Ram be entering? Mandodari* felt perturbed when she heard what citizens were saying.* Ravans principal queen

Meeting her lord she fell at his feet, addressed him in wisdom steeping, My lord, avoid strife with Shi Hari the most salutary advice I be giving, If you seek welfare, call one of your ministers, ask him to do your bidding, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Quickly Sri Rams consort* you must without fail to Sri Ram be returning.* Sita

The thought of whose messengers doings has demons wives miscarrying, Just as a frosty night spells disaster to lotuses, Sita to your race is becoming, Listen, my lord: unless to Sri Ram his wife Sita you are sincerely returning, Not even Shambhu* and Brahma** can be of any good to you I am stating.* Lord Shiv; ** The Creator

Sri Rams arrows as swarms of serpents; the demons as frogs comparing, Devise some safety before serpents devour them your obstinacy leaving. 36 Hearing Mandodaris caution the haughty Ravan with hilarity was roaring, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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A woman timid by nature, mind weak, even on auspicious event is fearing, If monkey army comes, demons would feast on them and be self-sustaining, Guardians of spheres shake in fear of me, how silly you, my wife, be fearing! He laughed, fondly embraced her and left for his councilchamber so saying, Mandodari felt troubled and thought heavens against her Lord was turning, On seating on his throne, he received intelligence that the army invading, Had arrived on the other side of the ocean and in numbers were destroying. He thereupon asked his councillors Appropriate advice to me be giving, They overconfidently laughed Only remain quiet, my Lord were saying, Your Majesty experienced no difficulty on gods and demons conquering, Of what account can men and monkeys be in front of your standing? If minister, physician, guide from fear or hope of reward use words pleasing, It results in dominion, health and faithall forthwith to dogs be then going. 37 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Such a contingency presented before Ravan, only to his face all extolling, Perceiving to be an opportune hour, Vibhishan * arrived his head bowing, Bowing his head once more he occupied his own seat without speaking, When ordered to speak and give his view, addressed Ravan thus stating: Since Your gracious Majesty has asked me, my opinion I am so tendering, Dear brother, as per my knowledge and in your own interest am saying, Let him who welfare, good reputation, wisdom, a good destiny be seeking After his demise and the pleasures of various kinds be ever still yearning. Turn his eyes away from the brow of the wife of another not yearning, As the moon on the fourth night of a lunar month one not be seeing, Even fourteen spheres sole Lord would fall if he turned hostile to beings, None speak well of a man with avarice even if ocean of virtues he be having. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved * Ravans youngest brother

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Lust, anger, vanity and covetousness are all but paths to hell ever leading, Shunning all these, adore Hero of Raghus line, who even saints be doting. 38 Shi Ram is the Lord of the universe, Death of Death, is no mere human king, He is Brahma, the Absolute, who is free from the malady of Maya abounding, The unborn God, the all-pervading, the invincible, without end or beginning, The ocean of compassion, for good of Earth and gods, born as a human being. He satisfies His devotees and breaks the ranks of the impious ever uncaring, And is the champion of Vedas and true religion that humans are knowing, Give up enmity and surrender to Him and yourself you will be but relieving, For Lord of Raghus relieves distress of those who refuge in Him be seeking. My master, restore Videhas Daughter to Lord Shi Ram unquestioning, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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And adore Him, the disinterested friend of all and who is ever forgiving, Being approached leaves not even him who sinned by world ill wishing, Lord whose Name destroys all agony has revealed as a human being. Again and again I fall at your feet and request you continually pleading, Adore Lord of Kosala pride, infatuation and arrogance but abandoning, Our grand-father* sent this message to us through a pupil of his - fearing, Availing myself of this golden opportunity, I am immediately conveying.* Sage Pulastya

39 A-B

Ravans old, wise minister Malyavan felt gratified on Vibhishan hearing, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Your brother is the ornament of wisdom, take to heart what he is saying, These fools glorify the enemy! Remove them from sight? Ravan fuming, Malyavan returned to his home, while Vibhishan began again pleading. Wisdom and folly dwells in hearts of all Puranas, Vedas be declearing, Where there is wisdom prosperity of every kind will always be reigning, And where there is foolishness misfortune is the ever inevitable ending, Let the light flow within and the wisdom be now on you enlightening. Perversity has taken possession of your heart thus you not differentiating, So your friends like foes and your enemies as friends you are now seeing, That is the reason you are fond of Sita who is Rams wife though knowing, She is night of destruction for the demon race yet you not comprehending. I beg you grant my prayer as token of affection, your feet I am clasping, Restore Sita to Ram so that no harm may come to you I am imploring. 40 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Vibhishan spoke wisdom and that too in words that had all approving, Of the wise, as well as of the Purans and the Vedas fully consenting, Ravan, however, rose in anger as soon as he heard them so stating, O wretch, your demise is impending now he with annoyance boiling. Fool, you lived on my generosity, yet, dullard, you my enemy favouring, Tell me any one in this world, whom with my might I failed in conquering, You cherish the love for hermits and yet in my capital you be dwelling, Go, join hands with them, O fool, and wisdom to them you be teaching. He kicked his younger brother, who clasped his brothers feet pleading, Uma, here lies the greatness of a saint, who good for evil is returning, You beat me as a father but your welfare in Sri Ram is fully depending. Vibhishan with his ministers left through air, loudly to all proclaiming:


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Sri Ram, all-powerful, is true to His resolve, your councillors end coming, Blame me not; I am to protection of Hero of Raghus now surrendering. 41 No sooner had Vibhishan departed; their doom was sealed and pending, Disrespect to a saint Parvati, immediately deprives one of all blessings, The instant Ravan abandoned Vibhishan all his glory the wretch was losing, Vibhishan joyfully to the Lord of the Raghus was proceeding and hoping. I am blessed to be going to see Sri Rams lotus ruddy feet on reaching, I will behold those very feet by whose touch Ahalya* was redeeming, That hallowed Dandak**, and Janakas Daughter in Her bosom be holding, That chased the delusive deer and in the lake of Shivs heart be dwelling.* Rishis wife; ** forest Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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I will go today and presently with these very eyes of mine be beholding, Those very feet, in whose wooden sandals, Bharats mind is residing. 42 Vibhishan instantly crossed the ocean such fond expectations cherishing, Where Sri Ram with his formidable army had been impatiently encamping, The monkeys took him for a special envoy of the enemy seeing him coming, Detaining him outside and approached Sugriva* and to him then informing, Said Sugriva, Lord of Raghus, Vibhishan** has come to see You intimating. The Lord questioned On this matter, my friend, what be your thinking? Lord of monkeys replied The wiles of demons are beyond comprehending, One does not know wherefore he has come to the best of understanding, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved * lord of the monkeys; ** Ravans brother

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And fully capable as he is of taking any form he likes not-withstanding. Obviously the fool has come to spy our secrets so is my understanding, Therefore, he should be taken prisoner and detained, is what I am advising, You held a wise course, but who seek refuge in Me their fears I dispelling, And Hanuman cherished affection for His protg on these words hearing. Those people who a suppliant forsake their very sight be so repulsing, Apprehending evil from him are just vile and sinful it is surely rebuffing. 43 I abandon not even the murderer of Brahmans, if refuge in Me be seeking, The moment a being turns to Me sins incurred are washed away uncaring, A sinner by his very nature is averse to My worship and is ever unrepenting, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Had Vibhishan been wicked at heart, could he dare to Me be approaching? The man with a pure mind can attain Me - deceit and wiles I be hating, Even if Ravan sent him to find our secrets, we need not fear or lose nothing, Laxman can dispose off all the demons the world holds in just a twinkling, If he wants shelter with Me of fear I as My own life, him be cherishing. In either case bring him here the All-merciful Sri Ram said laughing, Kind Lord Glory! cried all with Angad, Hanuman - Vibhishan ushering. 44 The monkeys courteously positioned Vibhishan ahead of them respecting, Proceeded to the place where the all-merciful Lord of Raghus was sitting, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Vibhishan saw from afar the two brothers who eyes of all were ravishing, Again as he beheld Sri Ram, the home of beauty and he stopped winking. He stood stockstill with his gaze intently fixed on the Lord unwavering, Who had exceptionally long arms and like red lotus his eyes resembling, His swarthy limbs rid the suppliant of all fear in all creatures and beings, His lion-like shoulders and broad chest applied great charm empowering. His encounter bewitched mind of limitless Cupids tears to eyes bringing, He, however, specified in temperate accents, after his mind composing, I am Ravans brother of demon race, with tamas* element preponderating, And I, as an owl is fond of darkness, a natural affinity for sins even having.* inertia and ignorance

Having heard Your fame I come to You, Dispeller of fear of rebirth believing, Save me, Sri Ram, the delighter of who seek your refuge, distress relieving. 45 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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The Lord was very delighted when He saw Vibhishan so prostrate falling, He rejoiced at heart, clasped him to His bosom to hear him so humbling, With His younger brother* seated him by His side he was clearly meeting, And spoke words that all fear of His devotee He was forever dispelling.* Laxman

King of Lanka, are you and your family well, in your vicious surroundings, You live amist evil-minded persons, how you keep piety, I am wandering, You a past master in correct behaviour and are averse to wrong-doing, It is better to live in hell, dear Vibhishan, than what youve been bearing. But may Providence never place us in the wicked company I am praying, Lord of Raghus, all is well with me now that I Your feet am beholding, Since You have shown and showered Your mercy to me, I am pleading, Forever, as Your sincere servant hold me and be ever so recognizing. There can be no happiness unless the mind knows peace even in dreaming, Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Relinquishing all the desires, this an abode of sorrow and Sri Ram adoring. 46 That villainous crewgreed, infatuation, jealousy, arrogance and pride haunts the mind only so long as the Lord of the Raghus does not take up His abode there, armed with a bow and arrow and with a quiver fastened at His waist. Attachment to the world is like a dark night fully advanced, which is so delightful to the owls of attraction and aversion; it abides in the heart of a creature only so long as the sun of the Lords glory does not shine there. Having seen Your lotus feet, O Ram, I am now quite well and my grave fears have been set at rest. The threefold torments of mundane existence cease to have any effect on him who enjoys Your favour, my gracious lord. I am a demon vilest of nature and have never done any good act. Yet the Lord whose beauty even sages fail to perceive with their minds eye has been pleased to clasp me to His bosom Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Ah, I am blessed beyond measure, O all-gracious and allblissful Ram, in that I have beheld with my own eyes the lotus feet which are worthy of adoration even to Brahma and Shiv. 47 Listen, My friend: I tell you My nature, which is known to Bhusundi, Shambhu (Lord Shiv) and Girija (Parvati) too. If a man, even though he has been an enemy of the whole animate and inanimate creation, comes terror-stricken to Me, seeking My protection and discarding vanity, infatuation, hypocrisy and trickeries of various kinds, I speedily make him the very like of a saint. The ties of affection that bind a man to his mother, father, brother, son, wife, body, wealth, house, friends and relations are like so many threads which a pious soul gathers up and twists into a string wherewith he binds his soul to My feet. Nay, he looks upon all with the same eye and has no craving and his mind is free from joy, grief and fear. A saint of this description abides in My heart even as mammon resides in the heart of a covetous man. Only saints of your type are dear to Me; for the sake of none else do I body Myself forth. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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Those men who worship My personal form, are intent on doing good to others, firmly tread the path of righteousness, and are steadfast in their vow and devoted to the feet of the Brahmans are dear to Me as life. 48 Listen, O king of Lanka; you possess all the above virtues; hence you are extremely dear to Me. On hearing the words of Sri Ram all the assembled monkeys exclaimed, Glory to the All-merciful ! Vibhishans eagerness to hear the Lords speech, which was all nectar to his ears, knew no satiety. He clasped His lotus feet again and again, his heart bursting with boundless joy. Listen, my lord, Ruler of the whole creationanimate as well as inanimate, Protector of the suppliant and Knower of all hearts: I did have some lurking desire in my heart before; but the same has been washed away by the stream of devotion to the Lords feet. Now, my gracious Lord, grant me such pure devotion (to Your feet) as that which gladdens Shivas heart. So be it, replied the Lord, staunch in fight, and immediately asked for the water of the sea. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Even though, My friend, you have no craving, My sight in this world never fails to bring its reward. So saying, Sri Ram applied on his forehead the sacred mark of sovereignty and a copious shower of flowers rained down from the heavens. Thus did the Lord of the Raghus save Vibhishan from being consumed by the fire of Ravans wrath, fanned to fury by his own (Vibhishans) breath (words), and bestowed on him unbroken sovereignty. Nay, He conferred on Vibhishan with much diffidence the same fortune which Lord Shiv had bestowed on Ravan after the latter had offered his ten heads to Him in a sacrifice. 49 A-B Those men who worship anyone else, giving up such a (benign) lord, are mere beasts without a tail and a pair of horns. Recognizing Vibhishan as His own man the Lord accepted him in His service; Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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the amiability of His disposition gladdened the heart of the whole monkey host. Then the All-wise, who dwells in the heart of all, is manifest in all forms, though bereft of all and unconcerned, and who had appeared in human semblance with a specific motive and as the exterminator of the demon race, spoke words strictly observing the rules of decorum: Listen, O lord of the monkeys and O valiant sovereign of Lanka, how are we to cross the deep ocean full of alligators, snakes and all varieties of fishes, most unfathomable and difficult to cross in everyway? Listen, O Lord of the Raghus, replied the king of Lanka, Although Your arrow ifself can dry up innumerable oceans, yet propriety demands that You should approach the ocean and request the deity presiding over it (to allow You a passage). My lord, the deity presiding over the ocean is an ancestor of Yours; hence he will think over the question and suggest some means (of crossing the ocean). The whole host of bears and monkeys will thus be able to cross the ocean without much ado. 50 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Friend, you have suggested an excellent plan; let us try it and see if Providence helps it. This counsel, however, did not find favour with Laxman, who was greatly pained to hear Sri Rams words. No reliance can be placed on the freaks of fortune. Fill your mind with indignation and dry up the ocean. Fate is a crutch for the mind of cowards alone; it is the indolent who proclaim their faith in fate. Hearing this the Hero of Raghus line laughed and said, We shall do accordingly; pray, ease your mind. Reassuring His younger brother (Laxman) with these words the Lord of the Raghus went to the seashore. First of all He bowed His head and greeted the ocean and then, spreading some Kusha grass on the shore, took His seat thereon. As soon as Vibhshan proceeded towards the Lord, Ravan sent spies after him. Assuming the false appearance of monkeys they witnessed all the doings of Sri Ram and praised in their heart the Lords virtues and His fondness for those who come to Him for protection. 51 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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They openly commenced applauding Sri Rams amiability and in the intensity of their emotion forgot their disguise. The monkeys now recognized them as the enemys spies; they bound them all and brought them in the presence of Sugriva (the lord of the monkeys). Said Sugriva, Listen, all you monkeys: mutilate the demons and dismiss them. Hearing Sugrivas command the monkeys ran and paraded them in bonds all through the camp. The monkeys, then started belabouring them right and left; the demons piteously cried for help, yet the monkeys would not let them alone. Whosoever robs us of our nose and ears, we adjure him by Sri Ram not to do so. When Laxman heard this, he called them all near him; and moved to pity he laughed and immediately had them released. Give this note into Ravans hands and tell him: read, destroyer of your race, what Laxman says. Further convey to the fool by word of mouth my generous message: surrender Sita and make peace or your hour is come 52 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Bowing their head at Laxmans feet the spies immediately departed, recounting the virtues of Sri Ram. With Sri Rams praises on their lips they entered Lanka and bowed their head at Ravans feet. The ten-headed monster laughed and asked them the news: Report me, Suka, your own welfare and then tell me the news about Vibhishan whom death has approached very near. The fool left Lanka where he was ruling; the wretch will now be crushed as a weevil with barley-grains. Tell me next all about the host of bears and monkeys, that has been driven over here by a cruel destiny. It is the poor soft-hearted sea that has stood as a protector of their lives. Lastly tell me the news about the ascetics (Ram and Laxman) whose heart is obsessed with unceasing terror of me. Did you meet them or did they beat their retreat on hearing my fair renown? Why should you not speak of the enemys prowess and strength; your wits seem utterly dazed. 53 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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My lord, just as you have so kindly put these questions to me, so do you believe what I say and be not angry. No sooner had your younger brother (Vibhishan) met Sri Ram then the latter applied the sacred mark of sovereignty on his forehead. When the monkeys heard that we were Ravans (Your majestys) spies, they bound us and persecuted us in many ways. They were about to cut off our ears and nose; but when we adjured them by Ram not to do so, they let us go. You have enquired, my lord, about Sri Rams army; but a thousand million tongues would fail to describe it. It is a host of bears and monkeys of diverse hue and gruesome visage, huge and terrible. He who burnt your capital and killed your son (Aksha) is the weakest of all the monkeys. The army includes innumerable champions with as many names, fierce and unyielding monsters of vast bulk and possessing the strength of numberless elephants. Dvivida, Mainda, Nila, Nala, Angad, Gada, Vikatasy, Dadhimukha, Kehari, Nishatha, Shath and the powerful Jambavan are some of them. 54 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Each of these monkeys is as mighty as Sugriva (the king) and there are tens of millions like them; who can dare count them? By the grace of Sri Ram they are unequalled in strength and reckon the three spheres of creation as of no more account than a blade of grass. I have heard it said, Ravan, that the commanders of the various monkey-troops alone number eighteen thousand billions. In the whole host, my lord, there is not a single monkey who would not conquer you in battle. They are all wringing their hands in excess of passion; but the Lord of the Raghus does not order them (to march). We shall suck the ocean dry with all its fish and serpents or fill it up with huge mountains. Nay, we shall crush the ten-headed Ravan and reduce him to dust. Such were the words that all the monkeys uttered. Fearless by nature, they roared and bullied as if they would devour Lanka. All the monkeys and bears are born warriors and, besides, they have Lord Sri Ram over their head. Ravan, they can conquer in battle even millions of Yamas (death personified). 55 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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A hundred thousand Sheshas would fail to describe the greatness of Sri Rams valour, strength and intelligence. With a single shaft He could dry up a hundred seas; yet, being a master of propriety, He consulted your brother (Vibhishan) and in accordance with his suggestion He is asking passage of the ocean with a heart full of compassion. The ten-headed monster laughed to hear these words. It was because of such wits that he (Ram) took monkeys for his allies. That is why, confirming the advice of my brother, who is a born coward, he is persistent in demanding of the ocean (like a pet child) something which is impossible. Fool, why do you bestow false praise on the enemy, whose might and wisdom I have fathomed. Triumph and glory in this world are inaccessible to him who has a cowardly counsellor like Vibhishan. The spy waxed angry to hear the words of the wicked monarch and taking it to be an opportune moment he took out the letter (from Laxman). Sri Rams younger brother (Laxman) gave me this note; have it read, my lord, and soothe your heart. Ravan laughed when he took the letter in his left hand; and summoning his minister, the fool asked him to read it out. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Beguiling your mind with flattering words, O fool, do not bring your race to utter ruin. By courting enmity with Sri Ram you will not be spared even though you seek the protection of Vishnu, Brahma or Shiv. Therefore, abandoning pride, like your younger brother, either seek the lotus feet of the Lord as a bee or be consumed with your family like a moth into the fire of Sri Rams shafts, O wretch. 56 A-B Ravan was dismayed at heart as he listened to the above message but wore a feigned smile on his face and spoke aloud for all to hear: The younger hermits grand eloquence is just like attempt of a man lying on the ground to clutch with hands the vault of heaven. Said Suka, My lord, giving up haughtiness take every word of it as true. Abandon passion and give ear to my advice: my lord, avoid a clash with Sri Ram. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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The Hero of Raghus line is exceedingly mild of disposition, even though He is the lord of the entire universe. The Lord will shower His grace on you the moment you meet Him, and will not take to heart even a single offence of yours. Pray, restore Janakas Daughter to Sri Ram; at least concede this request of mine. When Suka asked him to surrender Videhas Daughter, the wretch kicked him. Suka, however, bowed his head at Ravans feet and proceeded to the place where the all-merciful Lord of the Raghus was. Making obeisance to the Lord he told Him all about himself and by Rams grace recovered his original state. He was an enlightened sage; it was by Agastyas curse, Parvati, that he had been transformed into a demon. Adoring Sri Rams feet again and again the sage returned to his hermitage. Although three days had elapsed, the crass ocean would not answer the Lords prayer. Sri Ram thereupon indignantly said, There can be no friendship without inspiring fear. 57 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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Lakshaman, bring Me My bow and arrows; I will dry up the ocean with a missile presided over by the god of fire. Supplication before an idiot, friendship with a rogue, inculcating liberality on a born miser, talking wisdom to one steeped in worldliness, glorifying dispassion before a man of excessive greed, a lecture on mindcontrol to an irascible man and a discourse on the exploits of Sri Hari to a libidinous person are as futile as sowing seeds in a barren land. So saying, the Lord of the Raghus strung His bow and this stand (of the Lord) delighted Lakshamans heart. When the Lord fitted the terrible arrow to His bow, a blazing fire broke out in the heart of the ocean; the alligators, serpents and fishes felt distressed. When the god presiding over the ocean found the creatures burning, he gave up his pride and, assuming the form of a Brahman, came with a gold plate filled with all kinds of jewels. Though one may take infinite pains in watering a plantain it will not bear fruit unless it is hewed. Similarly, mark me, O king of birds, (continues Kakabhusundi,) a vile fellow heeds no prayer but yields only when reprimanded. 58 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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The god presiding over the ocean clasped the Lords feet in dismay. Forgive, my lord, all my faults. Ether, air, fire, water and earth all these, my lord, are dull by nature. It is Maya (Cosmic Nature) which brought them forth for the purpose of creation under an impulse from You; so declare all the scriptures. One would attain happiness in life only by remaining where he has been placed by the Lord. My Lord has done well in giving me a lesson; but You have fixed certain limits for everyone. A drum, a rustic, a Sudra, a beast and a womanall these deserve instructions. By the Lords glory I shall be dried up and the army will cross over; but this will bring no credit to me. Your command, however is inviolable; thus declare the Vedas, I shall do at once what pleases You. On hearing his most submissive words the all-merciful smiled and said, Tell me, dear father, some device whereby the monkey host may cross over. 59 Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved


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My lord, the two monkey brothers, Nila, and Nala, got a boon in their childhood from a sage. Touched by them even huge mountains will float on the ocean by Your glory. Cherishing my lords (Your) greatness I too shall help You to the best of my ability. In this way, my lord, have the ocean bridged, so that this glorious achievement of Yours may be sung in all three spheres of creation. With this arrow, my Lord, exterminate a race of vile criminals inhabiting my northern coast. On hearing this, Sri Ram, who was as tender-hearted as He was staunch in battle, immediately relieved the agony of Oceans heart. The god presiding over the ocean was rejoiced and gratified to witness Sri Rams astounding might and valour. He related to the Lord all the doings (of those villains); and bowing to His feet, Ocean took his leave. The god presiding over the ocean left for his home; the idea (of bridging the ocean) commended itself to the blessed Lord of the Raghus. This story (of Sri Rams exploits in this Kand), which wipes out the impurities of the Kali age, has been sung by Tulasidas according to his own (poor) lights. The excellences of Sri Ram (the Lord of the Raghus) are an abode of delight, a panacea for all doubt and an unfailing remedy for sorrow. Therefore, giving up all other hope and faith, ever sing and hear them, O foolish mind. Munindra Misra 2011 rights reserved

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A recital of the virtues of Sri Ram (the Lord of the Raghus) bestows all blessings. Those who reverently hear them cross the ocean of mundane existence without any bark. 60 [PAUSE 24 FOR A THIRTY-DAY RECITATION] Thus ends the fifth descent into the Manas lake of Sri Rams exploits, that eradicates all the impurities of the Kali age.


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