Valmiki Ramayana - November 30

November 30 - Sargas 10 and 11 of Yuddha Kanda. 

Vibhishana visits Ravana in his inner chambers next morning and again counsels his elder brother to avert disaster and restore Sita to Rama. His advice elicits indifference.

***

Valmiki describes the magnificence of Ravana's palace, situated at a lofty height, crafted with gold and jewels, matching the best of mansions of celestials, with the elements in their element, where Ravana held court with his inner circle of confidants and trusted men. The noble Vibhishana went into Ravana's presence there next morning.

He heard melodious chants of the Vedas and benedictions being pronounced for Ravana's welfare.

He saw holy men of Vedic tradition holding sacred ghee, butter and such materials ushering auspiciousness for Ravana. He bowed down to his elder brother, the king of rakshasas. He went and sat down in the golden seat indicated by Ravana from the corner of his eye. He offered his respects according to the best of traditions which pleased Ravana. Then he said,

यदा प्रभृति वैदेही सम्प्राप्तेह परन्तप ।

तदा प्रभृति दृश्यन्ते निमित्तान्यशुभानि नः ॥

"Oh dear brother, tormentor of foes, ever since Vaidehi has been brought here, we have been witnessing evil omens for all of us."

"Brother, the sacrificial fire does not light up well, it emits smoke and sparks. Snakes are found in places where Vedas are chanted, and ants infest the sacrifice materials. Cows have stopped giving milk, elephants no longer are in musth, and horses, even if fed well with tender grass, neigh plaintively. The donkeys and other draught animals appear strangely excited. Crows caw and crowd our mansion gopuras. Eagles hover over Lanka, foxes cry at twilight frighteningly.

"All this seems to have been brought on by Vaidehi's presence. I beseech you to restore Vaidehi to Raghava."

"These omens are significant for all of us in Lanka. The other ministers may be tongue-tied but please consider my words well, even if you suspect my intentions."

हितं महार्थं मृदुहेतुसम्हितम् - Words meant for his wellbeing, full of deep significance, rendered with great softness, were answered by Ravana thus:

भयं न पश्यामि कुतश्चदप्यहम्        ।

न राघवः प्राप्स्यति जातु मैथिलीम् ॥  

"Bah! I see no cause for fear at all! From where do you sense all this!? For sure, there is absolutely no chance for Raghava to get Maithili back from me. Even if he comes to fight with help from Indra and other gods, he won't survive a battle with me."

Ravana thus sent away Vibhishana.

***

The sentiments of Vibhishana were not confined to him alone. Many murmured dissent and disrespect for Ravana's actions. This could not but have an effect on Ravana, who was obssessed with lust for Sita. He felt weak and worried.

Valmiki describes in many shlokas the subsequent dazzling procession of Ravana from his chamber to the central court hall of his assembly created magnificently by Vishwakarma himself. In that procession, Ravana shone with a radiance, surrounded by fierce warriors and many grotesque rakshasas (gargoyles), to the chants of panygerics and sounding of many musical instruments.

Ravana seated himself and called for the best of his counsellors, saying that war was imminent and he wanted his best advisors to advise him.The messengers fanned out in a hurry, full of fear, and conveyed the message to the counsellors who were at the moment engaged in a variety of personal activities of rest and pleasure. They all hurried into the court. This was an unprecedented sight.

All the courtiers went and touched Ravana's feet, and settled down on a variety of high and low seats.

Valmiki says the senior ministers, elders, wise counsellors, were all present.

Then the noble Vibhishana entered his elder brother's court in regal splendour. He bowed down with affectionate respect to his brother, and was followed by Prahasta and Shuka. They were all offered appropriate seats.

The assembly was filled with the choicest of fragrances.

Valmiki asks us to imagine the grandeur of the moment. Utter silence, extreme deference, nobility, wisdom, and incredible valour, were all on display in Ravana's court. Ravana shone brilliantly as the lord of all he surveyed.

***

॥          श्रीरामजयम्           ॥ 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 29

November 29 - Sargas 7, 8 and 9 of Yuddha Kanda.

The rakshasa counsellors speak with surety and confidence of their success against Sri Rama and the vanara army. The lone voice of Vibhishana advises Ravana to return Sita to Sri Rama.

***

ऊचुः प्राञ्जलयः सर्वे रावणं राक्षसेश्वरं

द्विषत्पक्षमविज्ञाय नीतिबाह्यास्तवबुद्धयः 

"Thus questioned by their king Ravana, the rakshasas respectfully submitted their confidence of winning in battle, unaware of the true might of Sri Rama's army, and equally unacquainted with righteousness and wisdom."

"Oh king, when we are well equipped with parigha (the missile machine), yushti, pattisha and bhallas, with our vast rakshasa army, for what reason do you express misgivings?"

"Ravana, you went to Bhogavati and vanquished nagas. You defeated Kubera who was surrounded by lakhs of yakshas in Kailasa peak. You conquered Kubera despite his closeness to Lord Shiva, and captured his Pushpaka Vimana."

"The asura Mayaa was so afraid of you that he forged an alliance and gave his daughter Mandodari in marriage to you. You have captured in battle your brother-in-law Madhu wedded to your sister Kumbheenasi and burst his pride bubble. You conquered mighty nagas like Vasuki, Takshaka, and Shankha in Rasatala. A year-long battle with the danavas, reputed to be unconquerable, was won by you. You secured several magical powers from them. You defeated Varuna's children and their four-fold forces. You raided the Yamaloka ocean full of deadly creatures and destroyed Yama's immense army and even won the praise of all there by your prowess. This earth was once full of great warriors (whom you have eliminated). Rama cannot be compared to them. It is therefore easy for you to defeat Rama."

"In fact, oh King Ravana, you don't do anything. Your son, Prince Indrajit, will by himself defeat the vanaras. He has extracted incomparable powers as boons from Lord Shiva after yajnas. Indrajit defeated Indra's oceanic forces comprehensively and brought Indra as a prisoner to Lanka. Only as a favour to Brahma did he release Indra. Therefore just send Indrajit. He will destroy the enemy before they arrive here. Thus it is absolutely not appropriate for you to fear any attack by these mere humans and simians. Forget your misgivings, you are bound to kill Rama."

Then individual warrior heroes like Prahasta, Durmukha, Vajradamshtra, Nikumbha, Vajraha, all come forward to take on the enemy and win the war. They say that they had been taken  simply by surprise by Hanuman's incursion and now this enemy advancement. Vajradamshtra, lifting up his blood and flesh -coated parigha,  says that he would attend to the so-called heroes Rama, Lakshmana and Sugriva, and pay no attention to the trivial Hanuman. Or, he suggests, let a thousand rakshasas assume the form of humans and infiltrate Rama's army. Let them instigate a premature attack on Lanka. Vajradamshtra says then the rakshasa force of Lanka will aerially attack the enemy and decimate it.

Nikumbha and Vajraha similarly volunteer to destroy the enemy singly. Let, in fact, all others here in the court get drunk and make merry.

***

Vibhishana spoke after all these rakshasa heroes repeatedly offered to go and destroy the enemy easily.

These heroes raised their deadly weapons and raised their war cries. He asked all of them to hold their fire and sit down. Then he spoke:

"Don't underestimate Rama. He is extremely powerful, wise and has conquered his mind and its emotions. Who ever expected that Hanuman will cross the big ocean and wreak havoc in Lanka? The vanara army is huge.  It is fatal always to underestimate an enemy without knowing him. 

किं च राक्षसराजस्य रामेणापकृतं पुरा ।

अजहार जनस्थानाद् यस्य भार्यां यशस्विनः ॥

"What wrong had been done by Rama in the past towards the king of rakshasas in Janasthana, and why did our king abduct his wife from there? Rama killed Khara no doubt, but that was when Khara attacked Rama with his army and tried to kill him. It is only the right of every being to defend himself. If that was Ravana's reason for abducting Sita, its purpose is over. Let her be restored to her husband.

न तु क्षमं वीर्यवता तेन धर्मानुवर्तिना ।

वैरं निरर्थकं कर्तुं दीयतामस्य मैथिली ॥

"It is not proper to cultivate enmity with Rama who follows the righteous path and is also valiant. Therefore his wife Maithili Sita should be handed over to him. Let it be done before Rama razes Lanka down with its soldiers, chariots, elephants, and horses. Before the mighty and unconquerable vanara army attacks and wins over Lanka. If we don't return Sita, this glorious city of Lanka and its heroic rakshasas will all be destroyed."

"You are my elder brother, and, out of respect, I want to bring delight to you. Hence my advice for your own good. Let us restore Sita to the prince Rama before he rains down arrows that shine like the wintry sun and have sharp ends and feathered tails hit targets.with infallible ability."

त्यजाशु कोपं सुखधर्मनाशनम् - "Oh dear brother Ravana, please give up at once this anger for it destroys well-being and righteousness."

Ravana heard Vibhishana, and adjourned the assembly and went away to his inner chambers.

***

॥        श्रीरामजयम्         ॥  

Valmiki Ramayana - November 28

November 28 - Sargas 5 and 6 of Yuddha Kanda. 

Sri Rama muses on his situation, whereas Ravana prepares for war. 

***

Nila marshalls all the vanaras into the camps on the sea-side. Mainda and Dvivida protect the camps.

Sri Rama speaks melancholically to Lakshmana that thoughts of Sita and the ultimatum she is serving are causing him great sorrow.

वाहि वात यतः कान्ता तां स्पृष्ट्वा मामापि स्पृश ।

त्वयि मे गात्रसंस्पर्शश्चन्द्रे        दृष्टिस्मागमः       ॥

"Oh Wind-god, please touch my beloved Sita and then blow over to me carrying the spirit of that touch. If you do so, I will feel in my limbs a delight that one would feel on sighting the beautiful moon (unexpectedly.)"

Sri Rama suggests that Lakshmana should stay on the shore and Sri Rama will dive into the ocean and sleep, cooling himself from the burning separation from Sita. He craves for Sita's embrace. He mourns her situation of being held captive, a princess of Mithila and the daughter-in-law of Ikshwakus who should have enjoyed royal comforts. He is highly impatient to go and kill Ravana and the rakshasas and bring Sita back.  It is evenfall. Lakshmana consoles him and Sri Rama goes to do the evening Sandhya prayer.

***

Ravana is holding court. He takes stock of all the events just gone by and the extensive damage done to Lanka by Hanuman. He shamefacedly tells his chiefs that Hanuman not only breached their security, met with Sita, but also unleashed his terror on Lanka. He asks the wise counsel to advise what is to be done now.

मन्त्रमूलं च विजयं प्रवदन्ति मनस्विनः      ।

तस्माद् वै रोचये मन्त्रं रामं प्रति महाबलाः ॥ 

"Oh my brave warriors and counsellors, the learned and intelligent men say that good advice from ministers is key to a king' success. Please tell me what should be done next to take care of Rama."

"There are three categories of men. Those who take counsel from capable wellwishers and close relatives and go about their mission trusting Divinity are placed in the best category. The middle-level men take their decisions on their own, focus on one task at a time and go about it well trusting Dharma. The lowest category is of those who act without due deliberation and act with disregard to Divinity.

"Similarly, the quality of counsel from the ministers falls into three categories. The best one is where all of them have unanimity of advice from the word go. The middle ones start with differing advice but converge to a consensus finally. The worst ones show up differences and quarrel among themselves, sacrificing the prospect of good outcomes.  You are, all, wise. Confer among yourselves and come up with a course of recommended action for me."

तरिष्यति च सुव्यक्तं राघवः सागरं सुखम् ।

तरसा युक्तरूपेण सानुजः सबलानुगः      ॥

"My question is in this context - Rama is going to easily and quickly cross the ocean and come here for battle, along with his brother as well as his army.

"Indeed, Rama may even dry up the ocean to attack Lanka. He may come up with another plan. So we should be prepared to defend Lanka."

***

॥       श्रीरामजयम्       ॥ 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 27

November 27 - Shlokas 41 to 121 of sarga 4 of Yuddha Kanda. 

तस्य दाशरथेः पार्श्वे शूरास्ते कपिकञ्जराः   ।

तूर्णमापप्लुवुः सर्वे सदश्वा इव चोदिता:    ॥

"Then, surrounding Dasharathi Sri Rama, the mighty vanaras of great valour, moved forward at great speed as if riding speedy horses."

Valmiki conjures up a graphic vision of the immense vanara army on the march through forests and valleys. Sri Rama and Lakshmana rode on the shoulders of Hanuman and Angada like the sun and the moon in conjunction with the planets Jupiter and Venus.

Sri Rama had issued strict orders that the army should move causing minimum disruption of life in cities and villages. They should not disturb lakes and forest life. This was adhered to, but the vanara army was too big and too energetic to stop roaring and making victorious sounds as they moved at great speed.

Lakshmana chose this time to cheer up Sri Rama. He pointed:

महान्ति च निमित्तानि दिवि भूमी च राघव ।

शुभानि तव पश्यामि सर्वाण्येवार्थसिद्धये  ॥

"Dear brother Raghava, I see significant and prominent auspicious omens in the sky and around us on earth, portending your success in all your endeavours.

'The signs are that soon, you will destroy Ravana and return triumphantly to Ayodhya with Sita. Notice the cool breeze blowing from the rear of the army. The sweet sounds of birds singing. The sun shines benevolently. At night we see the Saptarishi star constellation with the polar star prominently. Our ancestor Trishanku shines too in the vicinity of the star of the sage Vasishtha. The stars are aligned portending a bad end to rakshasas. "

The mighty vanaras raised a huge cloud of dust as they progressed. Whenever the army crossed a river, the river water would flow in its reverse direction for quite a while since the vanaras would push through the waters. The vanaras had their sharp teeth and claws as powerful weapons. Some vanaras leapt from mountain peak to mountain peak swiftly occasionally levelling down rocks. Many vanaras travelled overland making a cacophony of noise. Thus advanced Sugriva's army, day and night after day and night.

Sri Rama saw the Malaya and Sahya peaks. Valmiki launches into a detailed description of the dense rain forests along the way, listing a large number of different tree species. There were several blossoming trees, fruit-laden trees, and tall trees with thick foliage. Someone can catalogue the botanical diversity of the region reading Valmiki. The vanaras thoroughly enjoyed themselves, eating fruits and honey and even very tasty flowers along the way.

The army led by Sri Rama, at last, reached the Mahendra peak. This is the peak from where Hanuman had launched himself into the sky to cross the ocean.

Sri Rama approached the seashore and went to a garden nearby with Lakshmana and Sugriva. 

He quietly observed the frothy waves come repeatedly and dash against the rocks on the shore. 

Sri Rama said that again he was beset with the problem of how to negotiate the vast ocean, king of rivers and reach Lanka. Valmiki describes how all the vanaras saw with wonder the ocean with his mighty waves and incredible diversity of sea creatures, many of them looking quite dangerous. The ocean also roared constantly.

Sri Rama ordered that the vanaras stay on the shore in camps erected with proper order. Each division was laid out in their camp well and due protection. 

***

॥       श्रीरामजयम्       ॥ 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 26

November 26 - sargas 3 and 4 of Yuddha Kanda.

I am on a pristine 50-acre farm with "life natural" values, reading the Ramayana and posting this blog!

Sri Rama takes charge and asks the vanara army to march.

***

सुग्रीवस्य वचः श्रुत्वा हेतुमत् परमार्थवत्     ।

प्रतिजग्राह काकुत्स्थो हनूमन्तमथाब्रवीत्    ॥

तपसा सेतुबन्धेन सागरोच्छोषणेन च ।

सर्वथाऽपि समर्थोऽस्मि सागरस्यास्य लङ्घने  ॥

कति दुर्गाणि दुर्गाया लङ्कायास्तद् ब्रवीष्व मे ।

ज्ञातुमिच्छामि तत् सर्वं दर्शनादिव वानर     ॥     

बलस्य परिमाणं च द्वारदुर्गाक्रियानपि   ।

गुप्तिकर्म च लङ्काया रक्षसां सदनानि च ॥

"After listening to King Sugriva, Sri Rama spoke the following words of great impact and of supreme significance:

"By penance, I shall surely build a bridge over the coean, and if need be, dry up the ocean so that we can all cross the ocean. I am comprehensibly capable of doing this for sure.

"Hanuman,  now tell me how many forts and ramparts protect Lanka. Describe them in such detail that I get to know the military terrain as if I am seeing it myself.

"Narrate also the strength of the various forces and how they are defending the gates and ramparts. How are the protection arrangements of various structures including the mansions of the rakshasa chiefs?"

Hanuman was delighted to have a chance to debrief all the reconnaissance information he had gathered. He spoke well:

"Revered Sri Rama, let me tell you everything about Ravana's glory and the affectionate allegiance of the rakshasas to him. Also his prosperity, the natural defence provided by the ocean, and the deployment of forces in terms of chariots, elephants, horses and soldiers.

"Lanka is full of rakshasas happy in their lives, and has many chariots. With its wide courtyards, lofty structures, impressive gateways, and strong fixtures and iron bars on the gates, Lanka is well fortified. They have installed machines that can launch counter-attacks with stones and darts that kill the enemies. The guards are armed at each main gate with a hundred stones enmeshed in iron spikes. There are precious gem decorations on the gates.

"There are large moats around the outer wall. The waters in the moats harbour deadly crocodiles and fishes. There are draw-bridges to allow passage into main gates. The guards live at these positions. 

"The draw-bridges and the stone-spike cannon machines make entry into the fort impossible for enemies.

"One of the entrance roads is decorated with pillars and altars. Ravana himself is always ready for battle and supervises his army. Lanka is impregnable even for gods. It has natural defences like mountains, forests, and water bodies all around.

"One lakh rakshasas each are garrisoned at the eastern gate and the south gate, with terrific tridents and swords. The west gate has ten lakh rakshasas with special weapons. The north gate, facing and separated by the ocean from this main landmass, has a ten-crore strong rakshasa army with chariots and horses and elephants, all led by trustworthy and noble rakshasa chiefs. At its centre, Lanka has the main army with immense numbers of soldiers."

Hanuman now narrates how he has destroyed parts of the fort, the moats, and burnt down many important structures in Lanka. He has also killed a large number of rakshasas.

Hanuman says that once the huge and capable vanara army crosses over to Lanka, they will be able to destroy Lanka and its rakshasas. Also, he emphasizes that Angada, Dvivida, Mainda, Jambavan, Panasa, Nala and the general, Nila, by themselves are capable of flying over to Lanka and breaching its defences.

"Sri Rama, please give us all the marching orders at an auspicious time as soon as possible."

***

यां निवेदयसे लङ्कां पुरीं भीमस्य रक्षसः । 
क्षप्रमेनां वधिष्यामि सत्युमेतद् ब्रवीमि ते ॥ 

Sri Rama spoke. "Oh Hanuman, this Lanka city with its terrific protection belonging to the terrific rakshasa Ravana that you narrated now - know that I shall breach it and kill all him soon, and this is the cardinal truth I avow."

Sri Rama says that it is noon, and the best time to start the march. Sita will come to know of the vanara army's advancement and feel revived like one who has partaken of Amrita (nectar of immortality).

"Today is Uttara Phalguni's ascent, and as I am born in Punarvasu.  Tomorrow, Hasta in conjunction with the moon makes it auspicious for the march. Oh Sugriva! I am also seeing many good omens for our victory."

निहत्य रावणं सीतामानविष्यामि जानकीम्  "I shall kill Ravana and bring back Sita." 

"My upper eyelids are twitching, a sign of forthcoming victory."

"General Nila, lead the army in a shaded route with plenty of fruits and roots, water sources and honey. Look out for rakshasas who may destroy the food sources and present difficulties. Vanaras, be on the constant look-out for rakshasas, all around, in valleys and nether regions and even in the skies. The not-so- strong ones in the army should be asked to locate food sources. The vanaras should march in divisions."

"Gaja, Gavaya and Gavaksha should lead from the front, as they are like very strong bulls. Rishabha is the best among vanaras with his leaps and so should take care of the right flank. Gandhamadana, elephantine in strength, should guard the left flank.

"Like Indra rides the Airavata, I shall travel sitting on Hanuman's shoulders. Lakshmana, who is deadly in dealing with enemies, will travel on Angada's shoulders like Kubera rides on Sarvabhauma. Jambavan, Sushena and Vegadarshi will protect the rear of the army."

***

King Sugriva signalled the army to march. Soon, crores of mighty vanaras were on the move, led by Sri Rama and Lakshmana in the front at the flag-off. Their swift progress southward was accompanied by loud roars of vanaras. The vanaras were enjoying the fruits and honey and chanting aloud that they will destroy Ravana and the rakshasas. Nila, Rishabha and Kumuda were reconnoitring the best paths to take. 

सागरौघनिभं भीमं तद्वानरबलं महत् ।

उत्ससर्प महाघोषं भीमघोषमिवार्णवः ॥

"Like the mighty waves of the ocean, the immensely powerful vanara army marched in huge numbers, terrific in appearance, and making incredibly loud noises that could be matched only by the tumultuous sounds of the mighty ocean."

***

॥          श्रीरामजयम्          ॥ 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 25

November 25 - Sargas 1 and 2 of Yuddha Kanda.

What we are now fortunate to be reading every day is called Srimad Valmiki Ramayana. A rough translation would be "The book endowed with all auspicious effects, composed by Valmiki, being the narration of Sri Rama's journey."

Sri Rama's journey began when Mahavishnu promised the gods that he would incarnate as Sri Rama and destroy the menace to the three worlds called Ravana. 

We have coursed through this journey, with a fine build-up of the circumstances, for Sri Rama to now go after Ravana. The key characters in this drama have been Dasharatha, Kaikeyi, Bharata, Lakshmana, Ravana, Hanuman, and Sita. Sita is the supreme heroine, who exemplifies Hindu womanhood. Sri Rama is the embodiment of righteousness. All other characters are like a beautiful garland around these two.

The stage is set for the onward march of Dharma.

***

श्रुत्वा प्रीतसमायुक्तः उत्तरं वाक्यमब्रवीत् - "Sri Rama was most delighted by Hanuman's report, and replied thus."

"Oh Hanuman, none else other than Garuda, Vayu, or yourself could have crossed the ocean like this.

Your success in breaching Lanka's security, accomplishing the task, and returning alive would be impossible even for gods, demons, yakshas, gandharvas and rakshasas.  You have succeeded well in Sugriva's entrusted mission."

यो हि भृत्यो नियुक्तः सन् भर्त्रा कर्मणी दुष्करे  ।

कुर्यात्  तदनुरागेण तमाहुः पुरुषोत्तमम्          ॥

नियुक्तोयः परं कार्यं न कुर्यान्नृपतेः प्रियम्  ।

भृत्यो युक्तः समर्थश्च तमाहुर्मध्यमं नरम्      ॥

"If one is employed and ordered by his master to accomplish a difficult task,  and one carries it out successfully, with love and efficiency, such a one is called supreme."

"If a soldier assigned to a task by his king carries it out to the king's satisfaction, but does not go over and beyond the brief to accomplish more, he is categorized as mediocre."

अहं च रघुवंशश्च लक्ष्मणश्च महाबलः ।

वैदेह्या दर्शनेनाद्य धर्मतः परिरक्षिताः  ॥

"I, the Raghu dynasty, the greatly powerful Lakshmana - have all been fulfilled and protected in our Dharma by your meeting Vaidehi Sita."

Sri Rama says now something significant, becoming of a true monarch. "On the other hand, Hanuman, it grieves me much that I am not able to honour and recognize you fittingly for your great favour to me."

एष सर्वस्वभूते परिष्वङ्गो हनूमतः - "This embrace, Hanuman, I give you, represents my all!"

इत्युक्त्वा प्रीतिहृष्टाङ्गो रामस्तं परिषस्वजे ।

हनूमन्तं कृतात्मानं कृतकार्यमुपागतम्      ॥

"Having said this, Sri Rama, with joy coursing through his body, with great affection embraced Hanuman who had returned after most successfully completing his mission."

***

Sri Rama raises now to Sugriva the intractable problem facing them of crossing the ocean. He agrees with Vaidehi Sita that this task, for the vanara army, of crossing the ocean seems impossible.

Sugriva responds that this gloomy outlook is not becoming of Sri Rama. Such defeatism is for losers. After all, they have found out where Sita is. That is big progress. In fact, Sugriva cautions Sri Rama that as a learned man, he should know that despondency is a sin. For the vanara army, crossing the ocean is but a small step, because then they will surely destroy the enemy.

The highly capable and heroic vanaras are so dedicated to the mission that they will even enter fire if necessary for its accomplishment.

सेतुरत्रयथाबद्ध्येद्यथा पश्याम तां पुरीम् ।

तस्य राक्षसराजस्य तथा त्वं कुरु राघव   ॥

"Dear Sri Rama, focus on the twin tasks of building a bridge over the sea to cross over and of seeing that city of the king of rakshasas.  If we see the city of Lanka on Trikuta, know for sure that Ravana will be killed."

 नहि पश्याम्यहं कञ्चित् त्रिषु लोकेषु राघव ।

गृहीतधनुषो यस्ते तिष्ठेदभिमुखो रणे         ॥ 

"Dear Raghava, I do not see anyone in the three worlds who is capable of standing and facing you in a battle once you hold your bow in readiness."

Sugriva tells Sri Rama that these vanaras are not to be underestimated, they have divine strength and can assume any form at will. They will rain boulders and trees and destroy any enemy, 

किमुक्त्वा बहुधा चापि सर्वथा विजयी भवान्   ।

निमित्तानि च पश्यामि मनो मे सम्प्रहृष्यति       ॥

"Dear Sri Rama, what is the need to speak so much. You are always successful in every endeavour. I can see right now many auspicious omens for our success."

***

॥          श्रीरामजयम्          ॥  

Valmiki Ramayana - November 24

November 24 - Sarga 68 of Sundara Kanda. Sundara Kanda concludes 🙏 

***

I missed mentioning in yesterday's blogpost that Hanuman narrates this:

"Sri Rama, Devi Sita spoke, in a plaintive voice, "Oh Hanuman, how blessed are you to be able to fly back and be with Sri Rama and Lakshmana so quickly!" "

Then I said to her:

पृष्टमारोह मे देवि क्षिप्रं जनकनन्दिनि     ॥

यावत्ते दर्शयाम्यद्य ससुग्रीवं सलक्ष्मणम्  ।

राघवं च महाभागे भर्तारमसिताक्षणे       ॥

"Oh Devi Sita, just now, please climb onto my back. Quick! I shall indeed take you into the presence of Sri Rama at once, sitting in the company of King Sugriva and Lakshmana! You will be with your husband, oh lady with the beautiful dove-dark eyes!"

 "Oh Sri Rama, to this the Devi replied thus: "Oh great vanara! This is not Dharmic. I shall not of my own accord touch your back or climb on it. Earlier, when I was lifted away by Ravana forcibly, I was helpless and did not touch him of my own accord. Please go at once to the brothers, valiant princes Sri Rama and Lakshmana, and give them my plaintive message to come at once and rescue me."

***

Hanuman concludes his narration of Devi Sita's message:

"Sri Rama, having gained much affection and confidence in me as your emissary, Devi Sita repeated her request to be conveyed-

एवं बहुविधं वाच्यो रामो दाशरथिस्त्वया ।

यथा मां प्राप्प्नुयाच्छीघ्रं हत्वा रावणमाहवे ॥

"Please convey in multiple ways to Dasharathi Sri Rama my words. Whatever it takes, please let him do to come here and get me out of here after slaying Ravana in battle."

Hanuman narrates how Devi Sita was loath to let him leave for Kishkindha, fearing that she will be plunged into gloom and untoward events may prevent her from staying alive to see him again, let alone have the reunion with Sri Rama.  

Again, Sita raised a very pertinent doubt. 

"Hanuman, you are equal to the Wind-god and so could cross over the ocean. But verily, only the Wind-god or Garuda or you can accomplish this incredible feat of flying here over the ocean. How indeed will the brothers Sri Rama and Lakshmana make it here? How will the other vanaras under Sugriva come here for the battle? No doubt you alone are sufficient to slay all these rakshasas and take me back, but that will not adduce to Sri Rama's repute and honour."

"One more thing, Hanuman! Sri Rama should not come and steal me away from here the way that despicable Ravana abducted me in the forest in Sri Rama's absence."

बलैस्तु सङ्कुलां कृत्वा लङ्कां परबलार्दनः     ।

मां नयेद्यदि काकुत्स्थस्तत्तस्य सदृशं भवेत्  ॥ 

"If the destroyer of enemies, Sri Rama, comes here and fills Lanka with his mighty army, and then rescues me and takes me back, then it will be fitting for the reputation of the Kakutstha Sri Rama."

"Oh Hanuman, find a way to make this happen."

Hanuman responded to Devi Sita:

"Oh Queen Sita, know that the lord of all vanaras and bears, King Sugriva, has taken an oath for the mission of recovering you. He is one of immense strength. Mighty vanaras who are tough and travel at the speed of thought are under his command. They can traverse up, down, sideways into skies and the netherworld without hindrance. They can accomplish any task without difficulty. They have gone around the world many times."

मद्विशिष्टाश्च तुल्याश्च सन्ति तत्र वनौकसः  ।

मत्तः प्रत्यवरः कश्चिन्नास्ति सुग्रीवसन्निधौ  ॥

अहं तावदिह प्राप्तः किं पुनस्ते महाबलाः   ।

नहि प्रकृष्टाः प्रेष्यन्ते प्रेष्यन्ते हीतरे जनाः    ॥

मम पृष्टगतौ तौ च चन्द्रसूर्याविवोदितौ     ।

त्वत्सकाशं महाभागे नृसिंहावागमिष्यतः   ॥

"Oh Devi Sita, please be confident that there are many vanaras better than me and my equals too. There is verily no one inferior to me in King Sugriva's army.

"The fact that I was able to come over here should remove any doubt about the other vanara heroes. Indeed, the best ones are never sent on a mission like this, it is always someone else.

"Riding on my back, the two great heroes, leonine in their valour, Sri Rama and Lakshmana, will rise like the sun and the moon, will soon arrive in your presence, oh great lady!"

"Oh Devi Sita, you shall see soon Sri Rama crowned as the King in Ayodhya, with you by his side."

Hanuman concludes his narration, "Oh Sri Rama, Devi Sita, who is as much distressed as you are,  was relieved and at ease after hearing my words."

Thus ends the Beautiful Chapter of Sundara Kanda of Valmiki Ramayana.

***

॥        श्रीरामजयम्        ॥ 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 23

November 23 - Sargas 66 and 67 of Sundara Kanda.

Sri Rama is deeply affected by the sight of the precious Choodamani. He is flooded with thoughts of Sita. He asks Hanuman to narrate Sita's message in detail to him.

***

Sri Rama tells King Sugriva, his eyes brimming with tears, that his heart is overflowing with feeling on beholding the Choodamani, much as a cow starts shedding milk from her udder at the sight of her milch calf.

मणिरत्नमिदं दत्तं वैदेह्याः श्वशुरेण मे      ।

वधूकाले यथा बद्धमधिकं मूर्ध्नि शोभते ॥

अयं हि शोभते तस्याः प्रियाया मूर्ध्नि मे मणिः ।

अद्यास्य दर्शनेनाहं प्राप्तां तामिव चिन्तये       ॥

इतस्तु कं दुःखतरं यदिमं वारिसम्बवम्      ।

मणिं पश्यामि सौमित्रे वैदेहीमागतां विना  ॥ 

"Oh, King Sugriva, this sacred Choodamani was given during our wedding by my father-in-law to Sita. The image of Sita looking so beautiful, wearing this Choodamani on her head at our wedding is indescribable. Indeed this is no earthly jewel. It was worshipped by the gods after it emerged from the ocean (at the time of churning of the ocean.). It was given by Lord Indra to King Janaka when he was greatly pleased by the King's yajna. 

"This jewel deserves to be only adorning my beloved Sita. In fact, I can strongly feel Sita's presence just touching it.

"Oh, Lakshmana, what  can be more distressing than this, that I am able to touch and hold this sacred Mani, but there is no Sita here wearing it."

Sri Rama. holding back his great grief, asks Hanuman to tell everything that Sita said to him, leaving no detail. He says everything that Hanuman speaks about Sita is like a spring of cool water for a thirsty person. Sri Rama wonders how Sita can survive a whole month alone when he cannot live even for a moment longer without the black-eyed Vaidehi Sita. He asks Hanuman to take him to where Sita is, right now. He wonders how such a timid and tender young lady like Sita could survive the horror of being surrounded by those dreadful rakshasas and rakshasis.

***

Hanuman tells Sri Rama the story that Sita narrated - of his launching Brahmastra at the Kakasura crow in Chitrakuta when he came and hurt Devi Sita between her breasts. Sri Rama was angry like a five-hooded serpent when he discovered what the crow had done. Even without raising his head from Sita's lap, Sri Rama took a blade of darbha grass, invoked Brahmastra and sent it after Kakasura. Kakasura could not save himself despite being the son of Indra, flying at the speed of the wind, and supplicating to all the gods and rishis for protection. Nobody dared defy Sri Rama's Brahmastra. At last Sri Rama alone gave him protection after he came begging for mercy and allowed him to stay alive, taking only his right eye as the target for the Brahmastra.

Sita has now asked Hanuman to convey her questions to Sri Rama: Oh Lord, you are supreme among wielders of weapons, truthful and powerful. How come you are not directing your arrows at these rakshasas? None - asuras, nagas, marutas, gandharvas, can face Sri Rama in battle. If at all you care for me, you would certainly slay Ravana at once with your infallible arrows. Why has even Lakshmana not come to save me, on order from Sri Rama? Has my stock of good karma run out?"

Hanuman tells Sri Rama. "On hearing these words from Vaidehi, I told her you are grieving for her such that nothing else matters to you. Your grief is reflected in Lakshmana, too." 

"Somehow, Devi Sita, I have managed to locate you. Therefore this is no time for grief. Very soon, the warrior brothers will come and save you, after burning down Lanka. It is certain that Sri Rama will slay Ravana with all his people and take you home soon. Please give me now a token that Sri Rama will instantly recognize as coming from you."

"Devi Sita then looked around, and making sure nobody saw this, she took out the sacred Choodamani from a knot she had tied it up in, in the corner of her garment. She said it had been carefully preserved for that moment. Taking the jewel, bowing down to her, repeatedly reassuring her, I took off."

"She was most distressed to see me go and repeatedly told me that I should tell you both, Sri Rama and Lakshmana, to come at once and rescue her."

इदं च तीव्रं मम शोकवेगं 

               रक्षीभिरेभिः परिभर्त्सनं च   ।

ब्रूयात् रामस्य गतः समीपं 

               शिवश्च तेऽध्वास्तु हरिप्रवीर ॥

"Oh supreme vanara, Hanuman! Please tell about this state of mine - my utter distress and the plight of suffering constant torment by these rakshasis. Please go and tell this as soon as you get close to Sri Rama. May all good come to you, and may your journey be safe and quick!"

"श्रद्धस्व सीतां कुशलां समग्राम् "Please tell Sri Rama  all this, and that Sita remains totally faithful and happy in her devotion to Sri Rama."

***

॥            श्रीरामजयम्           ॥ 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 22

November 22 - sargas 64 and 65 of Sundara Kanda.

The vanaras, as instructed, return to submit their mission report to Sugriva, Sri Rama, and Lakshmana. 

Hanuman informs Sri Rama that he has met Sita. Sri Rama asks him about Sita's condition and her thoughts and feelings. Hanuman begins to reply.

***

Dadhimukha returns to Madhuvana and first apologizes to Angada, saying that Dadhimukha should be excused for trying to prevent him and the army from enjoying themselves when Angada as the Prince Regent has as much access to Madhuvana as Sugriva and Vali before. He also conveys that King Sugriva has asked Angada and the army to report at once to him.

Angada is delighted to hear this. However, instead of ordering the army to move, he requests the senior vanaras to advise what should be done now.

The senior vanaras are delighted to see the young prince place discretion and deference above authority which he can exercise. They reply that his humility is appreciable and he has not allowed riches or power to turn his head.

तव चेदं सुसदृशं वाक्यं नान्यस्य कस्यचित् ।

सन्नतिर्हि तवाख्याति भविष्यच्छुभयोग्यताम्  ॥

"Oh Prince, these words are becoming of you and only you would have exhibited such humility in this situation. It foretells a bright future for you as the king of vanaras."

Since everyone has completely recovered from their excesses of drinking and eating, all are sober and equally happy to return immediately.

Valmiki says that the vanaras again take the aerial route and land very soon in front of King Sugriva.

Sugriva is repeating his assurance to the grief-stricken Sri Rama that all the celebration by vanaras means only one thing - that the supremely capable and intelligent and resourceful Hanuman has successfully met Sita.

Sugriva also counsels Sri Rama not to allow himself to be despondent and recover his spirit quickly for the forthcoming action.

हनूमांश्च माहाबाहुः प्रणम्य शिरसा ततः  ।

नियतां अक्षतां देवीं राघवाय न्यवेदयत्  ॥

दृष्टा देवीति हनुमद्वदनादमृतोपमम्         ।

आकर्ण्य वचनं रामो हर्षमाप सलक्ष्मणः  ॥  

"Then Hanuman, the mighty-armed one, bowed down reverentially and informed Sri Rama that Devi Sita is keeping herself physically well (which means only that she is still alive). When Hanuman said, "Devi Sita has been seen!", those nectarine  words were received with great joy by Sri Rama, along with Lakshmana."

निश्चितार्थं ततस्तस्मिन् सुग्रीवं पवनात्मजे ।

लक्ष्मणः प्रीतिमान् प्रीतं बहुमानादवैक्षत  ॥

प्रीत्या च परयोपेतो राघवः परवीरहा      ।

बहुमानेन महता हनूमन्तमवैक्षत            ॥

"Hearing that Hanuman had succeeded in the mission assigned to him by King Sugriva, a delighted Lakshmana gazed at Hanuman with all respect.  Sri Rama, the victor over all enemies, was also supremely delighted and looked at Hanuman with much respect and appreciation of the magnitude of his achievement."

***

On the Prasravana mountain, all the vanaras started to speak simultaneously to Sri Rama, saying how Sita had been located in captivity in Ravana's Ashoka garden, surrounded by cruel rakshasis, and how she was pining for Sri Rama, and the time limit set by Ravana for her.

Sri Rama asked,

क्व सीता वर्तते देवी कथं च मयि वर्तते   ।

एतन्मे सर्वमाख्यात वैदेहीं प्रति वानराः    ॥

"Oh vanaras, what is the present condition of Devi Sita? How is she disposed towards me? Please tell me everything about Sita."

The vanaras at once turned to Hanuman, asking him to take over and report in detail.

श्रुत्वा तु वचनं तेषां हनूमान् मारुतात्मजः     । 

प्रणम्य शिरसा देव्यै सीतायै तां दिशां प्रति  ॥

उवाच वाक्यं वाक्यज्ञः सीताया दर्शनं यथा  ।

तं मणिं काञ्चनं दिव्यं दीप्यमानं स्वतेजसा    ॥

दत्वा रामाय हनुमांस्ततः प्राञ्जलिरब्रवीत्       । 

समुद्रं लङ्घयित्वाहं शतयोजनमायतम्           ॥

अगच्छं जानकीं सीतां मार्गमाणो दिदृक्षया    ।

तत्र लङ्केति नगरी रावणस्य दुरात्मनः            ॥

दक्षिणस्य समुद्रस्य तीरे वसति दक्षिणे         । 

तत्र सीता मया दृष्टा रावणान्तःपुरे सती         ॥

त्वयि संन्यस्य जीवन्ती रामा राम मनोरथम्     ।

दृष्टा मे राक्षसीमध्ये तर्ज्यमाना मुहुर्मुहुः         ॥

एकवेणीधरा दीना त्वयि चिन्तापरायणा        ।

अधःशय्या विवर्णाङ्गी पद्मिनीव हिमागमे       ॥

रावणाद्  विनिवृत्तार्था मर्तव्यकृतनिश्चया         ।

देवी कथञ्चित् काकुत्स्थ त्वन्मना मार्गिता मया  ॥

"Hanuman, son of the Wind-god, heard everyone asking him to narrate the details. He bowed down his head to Devi Sita, turning in her direction (ie. towards Lanka), and began.

"After handing over to Sri Rama reverentially that self-luminous gold and gem ornament Choodamani that Devi Sita had sent to Sri Rama through him, Hanuman, an expert in the choice of words, spoke thus about his meeting with Sita:

"Oh Sri Rama, after leaping across the one-hundred yojana-wide ocean, I went in search of Devi Sita. I then saw there the city of Lanka. It is ruled by that evil Ravana. It lies to the south of the southern ocean. There I saw Sita, held in Ravana's inner quarters.

"Devi Sita, a most wonderful lady, is able to stay alive by  placing completely her mind and soul in you. I saw her surrounded by cruel raksasis who constantly torment her. 

"With her hair done in a single plait (a sign of woe for a queen), looking miserable, Sita is constantly thinking of you, Sri Rama. She sleeps on the bare ground, and looks quite pale. She looks like a lotus blighted in winter. 

"When I met her, she had been given an ultimatum by Ravana. Not one to accede to his remands, Sita had decided to kill herself. I somehow managed to keep her hopeful of her liberation by you and hence she is willing to stay alive."

Hanuman narrates how he won Sita's confidence a little by little after starting a recitation of the glory of the Ikshwaku dynasty. When Sita decided to talk to him, Hanuman told her everything about the alliance between Sri Rama and King Sugriva. 

एवं मया महाभागा दृष्टा जनकनन्दिनी । उग्रेण तपसा युक्ता त्वद्भक्त्या पुरुषर्षभ ॥

"Thus, Oh, Sri Rama, was seen the glorious daughter of King Janaka! She has been doing severe penance, totally dedicated in her devotion to you, oh supreme one among all men!"

Hanuman goes on to state how, when he gave Sita Sri Rama's signet ring, she, in turn, told him of the episode of Kakasura in Chitrakuta. And also of the episode when Sri Rama had picked up a lump of coloured earth and lovingly restored on her forehead her tilaka which had come off. She gave Hanuman the Choodamani, saying this would bring many memories to Sri Rama. She had carefully preserved it just to be given to her beloved Sri Rama. She used to gaze at it secretly and have memories of Sri Rama come flooding to her.

***

Sita has sent a clear message to Sri Rama: " I shall not live for more than a month. Please, Sri Rama, come before that deadline and save me." Hanuman concludes that Sri Rama should forthwith make plans to cross over to Lanka.

***

॥         श्रीरामजयम्        ॥ 

 

 

 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 21

November 21 - sarga 63 of Sundara Kanda.

Dadhimukha gets a most unexpected response from King Sugriva. 

***

उत्तिष्ठोत्तिष्ठ कस्मात्त्वं पादयोः पतितो मम।
अभयं ते भवेद्वीर सर्वमेवाभिधीयताम्     ॥

"Oh brave warrior, Dadhimukha, please rise. Why have you fallen at my feet? Do not fear. I shall take care of you. Please tell me what occasions your distress."

Relieved to hear King Sugriva's reassuring words, Dadhimukha narrates the strange happenings in Madhuvana.

नैवर्क्षरजसा राजन्न त्वया नापि वालिना।
वनं निसृष्टपूर्वं हि भक्षितं तच्च वानरैः  ॥

" Oh, King, I regret to inform you that something untoward has happened. What had never transpired - either in your father, King Riksharaja's time, or Vali's time, or under your rule, has happened. The Madhuvana which has never been trespassed has been vandalized by unruly vanaras."

Dadhimukha continues that the vanaras were violent and hurt all the guards and did not care for any of his warnings.

***

Hearing this narrative, Lakshmana, who was sitting next to Sugriva, asked, curiously,

"Oh, King! Why has this caretaker of your garden come here? What is wrong?"

"Oh, Lakshmana, Dadhimukha here is reporting that the vanara heroes under Angada have invaded Madhuvana on their return journey. My surmise is that they would not have conducted themselves thus if they had not succeeded in their mission."

दृष्टा देवी न सन्देहो न चान्येन हनूमता ।

न ह्यन्यः साधने हेतुः कर्मणोऽस्य हनूमतः   ।

कार्यसिद्धिर्हनुमति मतिश्च हरिपप्लुवे         ॥

व्ववसायश्च वीर्यं च श्रुतं चापि प्रतिष्ठितम्   ।

जाम्बवान्  यत्र नेता स्यादङ्गदश्च महाबलः  ॥

अङ्गदप्रमुखैर्वीरैर्हतं मधुवनं किल               । 

"Oh Lakshmana, I am sure that Sita has been sighted, and without doubt by Hanuman alone. Verily, there is none else comparable to Hanuman in accomplishing this task. None compares with him in succeeding in tasks, or intelligence.  His task orientation and his bravery are indeed well-proven and famous. 

"In addition, the army led by the venerable Jambavan, having Angada as their commander, cannot fail in their mission. There is ample proof of their success since they have enjoyed themselves so much, pretty much ruining the famed garden!"

Whereas Dadhumukha does not know what to say or understand, Lakshmana and Sri Rama feel immensely cheered up. Sugriva's logic that a failed mission would not have elicited such celebrations makes a lot of sense.

श्रुत्वा कर्णसुखां वाणीं सुग्रीववदनाच्च्युतम्  ।

प्राहृष्यत भृशं रामो लक्ष्मणश्च महायशाः      ॥

"Listening to the nectarine words of good tidings from King Sugriva, Sri Rama and Lakshmana felt wonderfully happy, and showed it in their radiant faces."

Sugriva told Dadhimukha, "Know, sir, that I am indeed pleased that the vanaras have enjoyed themselves so thoroughly. It does not matter that Madhuvana now needs some tidying up. Worry not. But go back at once and tell Angada and everyone else that I am expecting them to report to me immediately, with no delay."

Seeing Sri Rama and Lakshmana cheered up, Sugriva felt very happy. He felt a thrill of joy all over his limbs.

***

॥              श्रीरामजयम्              ॥  

 

Valmiki Ramayana - November 20

November 20 - Sargas 61 and 62 of Sundara Kanda.

As the vanaras triumphantly travel back to Kishkindha, they come to Madhuvana, a very special garden, fruit orchard, and winery maintained by Sugriva with the choicest of fruits, honey, and wines for special occasions. 

The vanaras get permission from Angada to go inside and celebrate. Their celebrations are so thorough that the guards are quite upset and go and report the vanaras' excesses to Sugriva.

***

महेन्द्राग्रात् समुत्पत्य पुप्लुवुः प्लवगर्षभाः ।

छादयन्त इवाकाशं महाकाया महाबलाः   ॥

"Surrounding their superhero Hanuman, all the vanaras began their return journey leaving Mahendra mountain. As they leapt up in the sky, those mighty vanaras of huge build seemed to cover the sky in their large numbers."

After listening to Hanuman, all the vanaras exhibited great motivation to go to war on Lanka. They discussed among themselves how they would collectively serve the mission of Sri Rama.

यत्तन्मधुवनं नाम सुग्रीवस्याभिरक्षितम्   ।

अधृष्यं सर्वभूतानां सर्वभूतमहोहरम्      ॥

"Then the vanaras came upon Madhuvana, the special pleasure garden of King Sugriva, well protected and out of bounds for all beings. It was a most enchanting place."

King Sugriva had appointed his maternal uncle, the vanara chief by the name Dadhimukha, as the caretaker of this special garden. 

All the vanaras were highly attracted to the Madhuvana. They wanted to go in and have a good time. They all approached Prince Angada and pleaded that he should give them permission. Angada agreed that they could go in and drink the honey and enjoy other attractions.

Soon, it was a real spectacle. The vanaras were having a wonderful time. Valmiki says very poetically:

गायन्तमन्यः प्रहसन्नुपैति 

                 हसन्तमन्यः प्ररुद्नुनुपैति   ।

तुदन्तमन्यः प्रणदन्नुपैति 

                 समाकुलं तत कपिसैन्यमासीत्   ॥    

"As some inebriated monkeys began singing,  they went and pushed those that were laughing out, and they in turn went and pushed those who were so drunk they had begun to weep, and those, in turn, pushed the ones who were jostling with others. The whole spectacle was a huge mass of vanaras presenting themselves in an orgy of celebration without a care in the world."

The director of the garden, vanara chief Dadhimukha, was first astonished and then very provoked by this display by the vanaras. He went and tried to discipline them. This was indeed the first time he had such a big problem on hand. He tried to push some. He reasoned with some. Some were so drunk he was able to create a fight amongst them. 

But none listened to Dadhimukha. They became violent and scratched and pushed him around, forgetting themselves. That was the effect of intoxication.

***

Hanuman told the vanaras to enjoy themselves without hindrance. He said he would attend to anyone who came in their way. This may appear a bit unruly, but we should remember that alcohol is a close friend of soldiers from time immemorial. It is said that the modern armies have generals sipping whiskey in their clubs whereas the soldiers are supplied plenty of rum.  Hanuman also must have sensed that the vanaras had gone through so much stress that this catharsis was much needed.

Angada felt reassured by Hanuman and nodded in approval.

The vanaras were now even more emboldened. They went and attacked the guards who were trying to stop them.

There was chaos. The vanaras were exchanging blows with the guards. They were trading blows among themselves, too. Dadhimukha tried to use strong-arm tactics, with very bad results. Even Angada pushed him. Soon the guards were unable to defend Dadhimukha who was badly hurt.

Dadhimukha had had enough. He decided to go and report this evil vanara sena and their vandalism and lawlessness to Sugriva. He was sure their actions would merit capital punishment,

He rushed to the presence of King Sugriva, who was with Sri Rama and Laksmana. He bowed down to Sugriva with a sense of helplessness and defeat.

***

॥          श्रीरामजयम्          ॥