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BALAKANDA
SARGA 7
Eight ministers, of outstanding qualities aided
Dasaratha noble descendant of the Ikshvakus. Incorruptible
indomitable and stalwarts in their devotion to duty and to the
affairs of the state they were Drishti, Jayantha, Vijaya, Siddhartha,
Artha, Sadhaka, Asoka, Mantrapala and Sumantra. The foremost of
seers, Vasishta and Vamadeva were family priests, besides other
counselors. Never did any of them utter a falsehood, either for the
sake of pleasure, profit or in anger.
Proficient in Shastras and sciences they had knowledge
of every branch of study and shied away from all acts of injustice.
Famed, eminent wealthy and with well-restrained senses, their deeds
matched their words, their decisions were never made in haste, but
after much contemplation. Peerless and forgiving, they always spoke
with a smile. Nothing took place at home or abroad that they had no
knowledge of secret agents kept them informed of events already
accomplished, actually happening or merely contemplated. Adept at
their duties, so loyal they were that if an occasion demanded it they
would not spare even their own sons. Engaged in replenishing the
royal coffers and maintaining an army, they would not harm even an
enemy if he had done no wrong. Mighty and powerful they were
exemplary statesmen and protectors of the realm and its people. While
discharging their duties they did not cause injury to the Brahmins
and Kshatriyas. Punishment was meted out only after considering the
gravity of a man's offense. When those honest and illustrious men sat
in judgment, there was not a single man in the kingdom who dared to
bear false witness.
Ever vigilant and alert to the welfare of the king, the
judicious and discerning ministers of exemplary statesmanship were of
impeccable conduct. They wore fine garments and ornaments, known for
their courtesy resoluteness boundless bravery and heroism, they made
flawless and wise decisions, for which they were reputed, even
outside the country. They always conversed kindly and pleasingly.
Ever watchful through the secret agents, rewarding his subjects
according to their virtues, Dasaratha, found no enemy to be his
equal, much less, superior to him! Enemies were suppressed, the
tributary kings were loyal, all was peaceful and Ayodhya basked in
serenity. Blessed with many friends, surrounded by a host of
supremely capable counselors Dasaratha, like the rising sun with its
brilliant rays, ruled the earth gloriously like Indra ruled the
heavens.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 8
Dasaratha, though indomitable, sublime and fabled the
world over as an embodiment of virtues, he had a lurking discontent.
It was the discontent of having no progeny to carry on his dynasty.
Heavy hearted and pining for sons, he questioned himself as to why he
should not perform the Asvamedha yaga to beget sons. Having made up
his mind, he sent for that most excellent of his ministers, Sumantra
and asked him to fetch the entire spiritual preceptors and family
priests. Thereupon Suyajna, Vamadeva, Jabali, Kasyapa and Vasishta
along with other Brahmins arrived. Paying homage to the exalted
assembly, venerable Dasaratha, addressed them with utmost grace
saying "Pining for sons I am ever unhappy and restless, because
I have no progeny. It is my desire now to perform the Asvamedha yaga
and worship the gods. Also tell me how I can fulfill my wish".
Vasishta and the other Brahmins commended that decision
and blessed him saying that his desire would soon come to pass. Their
approval delighted Dasaratha, whose eyes gleamed with joy and
excitement. He bade that articles required for the ritual be procured
as directed by the spiritual masters and the sacrificial horse was to
be released under the protection of warriors. On the left bank of the
river Sarayu was to be erected the sacred pavilion in accordance with
the scriptural norms. Auspicious rites were to be performed as
ordained, for the uninterrupted completion of the sacrifice. He
emphasized that Asvamedha was the best of yagas and if difficulties
and obstacles did not arise, every king would like to accomplish it.
"Learned brahma rakshasas will always be on the prowl for faults
in the sacrifice, so that they can strike into it and if such a thing
happens, he who is conducting the sacrifice will be destroyed
instantaneously! So flawless performance is imperative by strictly
following the rules and taking care of every detail." The
ministers assured Dasaratha that his orders would be implicitly
carried out. The wise and enlightened Brahmins blessed the king for
the speedy fulfillment of his desires and took leave. Dasaratha made
his way to the palace when he told his dear wives of his plans. They
were ecstatic and enthralled at the idea of the Asvamedha. Their
beautiful faces glowed like the lotuses.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 9
Later king Dasaratha in the privacy of his palace heard
the story narrated to him by his charioteer Sumantra. An ancient
story told by the holy Sanath Kumara in the presence of seers.
Sumantra said that this story related to Dasaratha who now desired a
progeny; "The eminent Kasyapa had a son named Vibhandaka who was
ordained to have a son, the famed Rshyasringa. This lord among
brahmins raised in the forest, had no other avocation except to
minister to the needs of his father. He knew no life other than that
of tending the sacred fire and knew no other human other than his
father. He practiced the life of the two-fold celibacy honoured by
the Brahmins as Vratitva and Prajapatya. Long years passed by, as he
worshipped the fire god and served his venerable father and many
more passed, in his practice of Vratitiva, a way of celibate life.
At this time, Romapada ruled the kingdom of Angada. As a
result of a lapse in the conduct of its king, the country was going
through a spell of dreadful drought, threatening all life and its
creatures. The despondent king summoned and spoke to the Brahmins,
"all of you are experienced and wise to the ways of the world.
Specify some penance by which I can find deliverance by absolving
myself of my sins". The masters of the Vedas, then told
Romapada, that he should, by some means or the other bring
Rshyasringa into Angada, receive him with due honor and ceremoniously
offer him, his daughter Shanta, in marriage. At that, Romapada
wondered aloud as to how he could bring a man of such stupendous
brilliance, a colossus among men, master of all his senses and a born
celibate into the country. After much deliberation and consultation
with his counselors, it was decided to dispatch the priests and
ministers for the purpose of bringing Rshyasringa into the land of
Romapada. This news terrified the priests and ministers, as they were
mortally afraid of mighty Vibhandaka. Fearing that they may incur his
wrath, they cringed at the idea and approached the king with
crestfallen faces begging him to relieve them of that task. Once more
the administrators got together, thought long and hard and came to
the conclusion that they would achieve the purpose with the help of
courtesans! The strategy succeeded. Rshyasringa arrived in Angada.
Shanta was given in marriage and parjanya opened up the sky to rain
abundantly! Having heard and enjoyed Sumantra's narration, Dasaratha
wished to know in detail, how exactly Rshyasringa was brought into
the court of Romapada.
SARGA 10
Sumanthra, in response to king Dasaratha's desire
elaborated upon the event that led to the arrival of Rshyasringa in
Angada. The ministers and priests informed king Romapada of the
flawless strategy that they had come up with to bring that peerless
Brahmin. They assured him that it posed no danger and could be
successfully executed. Rshyasringa, the forest dweller and great
Vedic scholar unacquainted with the pleasures of life and the
pleasures of the senses, was to be lured out of the forest by
gorgeous courtesans lavishly dressed and beautifully and bejewelled.
These charming persons whose sweet voices filled the
forest with song, one day invaded the quiet forest glades as planned.
From a distance they tried to catch a glimpse of Rshyasringa, the
ascetic of celestial brilliance practicing austerities, living
contentedly and following his father. Having never stepped out of the
hermitage, and never seen any man or woman other than his father the
tranquil spell of Rshyasringa's life, took a sudden turn, when he
tumbled onto that bevy of beautiful woman, who had strayed into the
forest with a purpose. Soon these women approached Rshyasringa and
plied him with questions. "Brahmin! How do you survive here? Why
do you roam these desolate and deserted forests?" Having never
seen such loveliness, Rshyasringa felt a wave of friendship and an
urge talk to them as he said. "My name is Rshyasringa and I am
the son of Vibhandaka. What I do is known the world over by name and
action." Rshyasringa invited the damsels to his hermitage and
they agreed. On reaching the place he honored them as custom demanded
and offered them water to wash their feet as also forest fruits and
roots. The courtesans longed to linger but were afraid of sage
Vibhandaka, and not wanting to invite his ire, decided to leave.
Before they left they offered some food and sweet meat that they had
brought, along with them the likes of which Rshyasringa had never set
his eyes upon. It was time to go back and on the pretext that they
had some religious rites to perform, the courtesans fled the place.
After the maidens left Rshyasringa became sick at heart
and wandered around desolately. The next day when he came back to the
place where he had met the lovely courtesans, they were delighted to
see him and invited him to go back with them to their hermitage where
he would be given a lavish welcome. Bewitched Rshyasringa, trapped by
the charms of the human snares allowed them to have their way and was
thus lured away from the forest and from his innocence! Even as
Rshyasringa set foot in Angada, parjanya sent torrents of rain on to
the parched earth. Romapada went forth to receive Rshyasringa and
prostrated to him for bringing rains to the country .He also asked
for the favor of warding off Vibhandaka's wrath, for bringing away
Rshyasringa. Shanta was given in marriage to Rishyasringa and
Romapada attained great peace and happiness with his desires
fulfilled.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 11
Sumantra continued with Sanath Kumara's narration. "In
the Ikshvaku dynasty, will be born a king, radiant, prosperous and
devoted to truth. A man of his word and of many virtues, he will be
known as Dasaratha who at a later time will form a friendship with
Romapada. The story goes on to say that the famed king Dasaratha,
lord of the people, upholder of morality and truth would approach
Romapada and request him to send Rshyasringa to conduct the religious
sacrifice, for the invocation of progeny, so that the Ikshvaku
dynasty may continue without interruption.
When Romapada agreed Dasaratha's tormented mind raced
with joy. Free of all anxiety, he approached Rshyasringa, reverently
with folded palms. He said that bereft of sons, he wished to perform
suitable rituals to beget children and that Rshyasringa should
preside over them and bless him with sons. His boons were granted.
Four sons of great renown were born, bringing glory and fame to the
Ikshvakus unequaled in all the three worlds. This was the story told
by Sanath Kumara during the early period of Krita Yuga.
Sumantra then asked king Dasaratha to command the best
of chariots and gather a resplendent retinue to honor and escort
Rshyasringa back to Ayodhya. With the permission of Vasishta
Dasaratha accompanied by his queens and courtiers, left for Angada.
Crossing many rivers and forests he found the brilliantly magnetic
Brahmin glowing like the flames of a new born fire, sitting next to
Romapada.
Overwhelmed
with joy at the sight of king Dasaratha, who was the best of his
friends, Romapada welcomed him with great warmth and reverence. Aware
of the bond of friendship between the two Rshyasringa also paid
special tributes and offered an even more elaborate reception. Having
enjoyed the wonderful hospitality for a few days, king Dasaratha
wished to return so that he could commence the austerities. Romapada
bade him an affectionate and touching farewell. Eager and excited
Dasaratha set out on the journey back to his kingdom. He dispatched
messengers ahead, to herald their arrival and to decorate the city.
Hearing of the home-coming of the royal entourage the people of
Ayodhya jubilantly busied in carrying out the king's commands.
Streets were sprinkled with scented water incense was burned and
flags hoisted. Soon Dasaratha with Rshyasringa preceding him made a
grand and pompous entry into a beautifully bedecked Ayodhya, to the
blare of conches and the beating of drums. The citizens were
delighted to behold the brilliant sage who was taken into the palace
to be given a traditional and fitting welcome. Dasaratha was happy
because he was able to bring Rshyasringa. The royal ladies beholding
Shanta were happy. Her beauty fascinated them and they treated her
with worshipful affection honored by all. Shanta too was happy and
she along with Rshyasringa dwelt in Ayodhya for some time.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 12
Time moved on, days passed and when spring arrived,
beautiful and charming, the longing to perform the sacrifice arose in
Dasaratha. Bowing his head in reverence to that Brahmin, whose
brilliance was celestial, Dasaratha requested him to commence the
rituals and also to be the chief presiding priest. Rshyasringa
accepted the honor and Sumantra was summoned to gather all those
masters of the Vedas, Suyajna, Vamadeva, Jabali and Kasyapa, as well
as the family priest Vasishta and other learned Brahmins. Dasaratha
paid homage to the venerable gathering, his words ringing with grace
and righteousness. He said his yearning for sons was so intense that
he was robbed of all happiness. For that reason he wished to perform
the Asvamedha sacrifice as ordained so that, his desires may be
fulfilled. The exalted gathering commended Dasaratha saying that he
would be blessed with four sons of great renown.
Rshysringa
and the other masters directed king Dasaratha to procure articles for
the sacrifice and release the horse under the protection of warriors.
The king was pleased and asked his ministers to fulfill the
requirements of his preceptors. A sacrificial pavilion was to be
built on the northern banks of the Sarayu River, according to the
methods prescribed. Auspicious rites were to be performed as
ordained, for the uninterrupted completion of the sacrifice. The
ministers taking leave of the king promised to carry out the
commands. The brahmins returned to their dwelling places and
Dasaratha retired to his palace
BALAKANDA
SARGA 13
A year passed and one more spring arrived. Having
completed the preliminary rituals, Dasaratha went forth to the
sacrificial pavilion to commence the Asvamedha. There he paid
obeisance to that great Brahmin Vasishta to whom he said, "You
are my friend and supreme guide, the responsibility of the great
ceremony and the warding off of any impediment to any aspect of the
sacrifice can be borne by you alone." Vasishta assured Dasaratha
that all would be well and done according to his wishes. Promising
success, Vasishta began preparations for the mammoth event of great
piety. He sent for eminent, experienced Brahmins, trained in the
performance of such sacrifices and well versed in the execution of
ritual related matters. He spoke to noble architects of fame,
experienced in the art of construction, to artisans of integrity, to
carpenters, astrologers, dancers and actors. Highly intellectual and
scholarly men, with immense knowledge in the ritual texts were also
interviewed. Vasishta told them to inaugurate the sacrificial rites,
according to the code laid. He also ordered thousands of bricks to be
brought for the construction of royal dwellings for kings with every
comfort for visiting kings and many more fine houses for the
brahmins. All were not only to be built, but also stocked with every
possible food and drink. Shelter was also to be put up for the people
of Ayodhya, furnished with everything that one could desire. Even
people from small towns and countryside were to be given the best of
food with great respect. All classes of society were to be accorded
the same warm welcome. Neither greed lust nor anger was to hinder
hospitality.
Sculptors, priests and artisans engaged in discharging
the duties of the sacrifice were given special treatment according to
rank. The final word of Vasishta was that every one should fill their
hearts with love and affection, attending to everything and omitting
nothing. The gathering promised to fulfill his wishes and pay
attention to every detail.
Once again Sumantra was summoned. Vasishta asked to him,
to invite all the kings of the earth, as well as the Kshatriyas,
Brahmins, Vaisya and Sudras. He was to escort the illustrious Janaka,
king of Mithila and an ally of Dasaratha, as also the aged and
exceedingly noble father-in-law of Dasaratha, the king of Kekaya.
Romapada king of Angada, an intimate friend of Ayodhya was also to be
escorted. Kings of all the regions in the Eastern and Southern
directions and of Sindhu, Sauvera and Saurashtra, including all the
allies, along with their retinues, families and relations were to be
ushered into the domain. Sumantra put orders issued by Vasishta into
action without delay. He dispatched emissaries to kings and set forth
to honor and accompanies the great Janaka, king of Mithila. Though
pleased to hear that all preparations were completed Vasishta once
again reminded all about absoluted courtesy. He warned that without
due respect gifts should never be given, as any gift given without
love and with contempt would result in the downfall of the donor.
For
several days and nights, the rulers of the earth arrived in Ayodhya,
bringing with them gifts for Dasaratha. Happy with his
accomplishments Vasishta informed his king that he had extended due
hospitality to all the noble lords who were given a royal welcome. He
now wanted Dasaratha to proceed to the sacrificial pavilion, where
the priests in charge fully immersed in their duties, were awaiting
the king. As advised by the family priest and Rshyasringa, the lord
of Ayodhya entered the hallowed sacrificial ground, on the auspicious
day at the auspicious moment. The beauty and grandeur of it all was
awesome and made the beholders wonder as if the whole thing had
emerged by the sheer will and imagination of king, Dasaratha. Amidst
this splendor and auspiciousness commenced the great Asvamedha yaga
according to the shastras, presided over by Rshyasringa the greatest
of priests
BALAKANDA
SARGA 14
After the return of the released horse at the end of a
year the Asvamedha yaga was begun on the Northern bank of the river
Sarayu. Rshyasringa the chief of the priests assisted by many more
venerable Brahmins, with Dasaratha seated in the midst of the most
honorable of kings commenced the Asvamedha. Priests whose knowledge
of vedas was profound performed every ritual impeccably according to
Kalpasutra.
In the hallowed grounds of the Asvamedha no
one was hungry or thirsty. People were persuaded to take the best of
foods and gifted the best of clothes. Mounds of food were ever kept
ready for the visiting multitudes from cities and countryside.
Brahmins, ascetics, Sudras, women, children and even the sick though
satiated could not stop eating the exotic foods. Amazed at the
unequaled hospitality, people sang praise of Dasaratha. Brahmins
built the sacrificial fireplace to the size and manner prescribed in
Shastras. Even the bricks used for the construction of fireplaces
were made of a special size as per Shastras. The kinds of wood used
for the posts where the sacrificial animals were to be secured were
also according to prescribed tradition. The sacrificial altar
erected in the shape of an eagle dazzled like burnished gold
appearing to be a gold winged eagle. The Asvamedha a three-day ritual
needed eighteen fireplaces, which were thrice as many as normal.
When at the end of the yaga king Dasaratha magnanimous to the core
gave away the entire earth to the presiding priests. They protested
those noble souls refused to accept that kind of magnanimity saying
that the king alone who was pure and cleansed was the supreme ruler
and protector of the earth. Once again Dasaratha outdid himself by
giving away a million cows, a hundred million pieces of gold and four
times that amount in silver.When he prostrated to Rshyasringa for
performing and overseeing the Asvamedha yaga, the sage in turn
blessed Dasaratha with four sons who would perpetuate his dynasty.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 15
After pondering for a while in spiritual contemplation,
Rshyasringa master of the vedas said, "I shall perform
Putreyshti for you to beget sons with the aid of mantras as in
Atharvasirasi". When the ritual commenced the gods, gandharvas,
all the spiritually accomplished sages and Brahma the creator
assembled to receive their share of the ritual offerings as was the
custom. At this time the assembly of celestials told
Brahma of their troubles. "Oh Lord! A rakshasa by name Ravana
armed with the boon granted by you is tormenting us. His diabolic
powers leave us powerless. Unable to chastise him and honoring the
boon granted by you, we bear the havoc that he creates. With
arrogance born of that power the evil demon makes the three worlds
tremble with fear. Rendered invincible he spares neither asuras,
Brahmins or gandharvas. We dread him. Even the Sun shines subdued,
the winds dare not to blow and the restless oceans still at his
appearance".
Brahma said that it was true Ravana was armed with a
boon worded in such a way that it rendered him virtually deathless.
In asking for the boon he had sought immunity from every celestial
and from every creature born on earth but of man there was no
mention. In his insolence he felt humiliated to seek immunity from
their paltry strength which in his disdain he even refused to
recognize. "So Ravana will die and die in the hands of man. His
death has already been ordained". Even as the celestials were
rejoicing Visnu attired in yellow bearing conch, mace and discus
appeared in all his glory. The divine gathering prostrated to that
god of gods entreating him to be born as human and rid the world of
Ravana. Allaying their fears and bowing to their wishes Visnu
promised not only to slay Ravana but also his sons and his kin. He
pondered for a moment as to where he should be born? . He then
decided to divide himself into four parts to be born as Dasaratha's
four sons. "Do that" urged the celestials, "and return
soon to Vaikunta, that permanent abode of yours devide of all passion
hatred and sin beyond reach of even the celestials.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 16
Lord Narayana the omniscient knower of all, yet wanting
to be courteous and graceful asked the gods "Is there a strategy
to kill that lord of the rakshasas who causes so much misery to the
sages? " And they chorused ". Assume the body of a human
and kill him. The boon of Brahma renders him invincible to all the
gods and to all creatures. Ravana in his contempt for men brushed
them aside as mere mortals unworthy of mention and sought no immunity
from them. So his death lies in the hands of man alone" After
the gods and sages bade worshipful farewell to Visnu he too vanished
to take on his next incarnation as the son of Dasaratha who at that
very moment was conducting the Putreyshti yagna for the sake of
progeny.
Meanwhile from the flames of the sacrificial fires rose
a glowing form whose incomparable radiance pulsated with power and
might. He wore a robe of black and red, his voice was like the
booming of drums, and his hair and beard glossy like the lion's mane
and his gait like that of an arrogant tiger. Tall as a mountain peak
he blazed like the Sun. In his arms he held a vessel crafted of fine
gold covered with a silver lid. A vessel so ethereal and so exquisite
it seemed to have just materialized from space and was filled with
celestial porridge. Looking at Dasaratha he said, "My lord know
that I have come here sent by Prajapathi Brahma". Dasaratha
greeted him with folded palms saying "Lord! Welcome and what may
I do for you? The divine form said, "Take this porridge prepared
by the gods. Give it to your wives who will bear you sons".
Receiving the celestial porridge Dasaratha was ecstatic, he felt like
a pauper would at the sudden discovery of a great treasure. With his
mission achieved that splendid apparition, who had risen from the
flames disappeared. Dasaratha entered the palace ringing with great
joy. The king directly went to the queen's quarters offered them the
porridge. He gave half of it to Kausalya and a quarter to Sumithra.
Of the remaining quarter he gave one half to Kaikeyi. After thinking
for a while he gave the other half to Sumithra. The grateful queens
were extremely happy, and boundless was Dasaratha's joy when the
queens became pregnant.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 17
At the imminent incarnation of Lord Visnu as heir to
king Dasaratha, Brahma gathered all the Devas and said "Visnu
true to his word is valiantly going forth as man into the world of
men for our cause. So we must provide forces to be with him and serve
him. Create powerful sons whose bodies will have the might of lions
and the speed of winds. Noble, intelligent, knowledgeble and equal in
valor they should be indestructable. Resistant to hunger and thirst
like them who have partaken of the nectar of the immortality, those
invincible beings should be blessed with magical skills so as to take
any form at will. I have already created Jambavan the best among the
breed of bears.
Ordered by Brahma the devas created the sons in the form
of monkeys. Great Siddhas, Vidyadharas and Uragas produced heroic
sons and wood-dwellers who used stones, trees and their own teeth and
nails as weapons. Indra created Vali the king of vanaras and the Sun
created Sugriva. Brihaspathi brought forth wise Tara, Kubera was
responsible for Gandamadana, Viswakarma created Nala and the fire god
begot Nila. The Aswini gods created mainda and Dvivida, Varuna and
Parjanya created Susena and Sarabha respectively. Vayu produced the
invincible Hanuman whose courage, wisdom and strength matched his
diamond hard body, while he speed matched to that of Garuda.
Thousands of warriors who could shatter the earth with their feet,
make mountains shudder and torment the very oceans across which they
could leap appeared. Their booming voices as they roamed the forests,
mountains along river banks and sea shores made flying binds plummet
in fright. The earth teemed with them who wanted to assist Rama they
came into existence lofty as mountain peaks with fearful body and
matchless strength.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 18
The ritual consecrations of the Asvamedha ended. the
gods received their share of the havis and returned to their worlds,
the happy lords and rulers of the earth went back to their countries
while Dasaratha returned to Ayodhya with his queens and entourage.
Rshyasringa and Shantha took leave of the king who now awaited the
birth of his sons. Six seasons passed after the completion of
rituals. In the twelfth month of Chaitra on the ninth day of the new
moon, in Kartaka lagna presided by Aditi as devata, when the star
Punarvasu was in ascendance with the five planets Sun, Mars, Saturn,
Jupiter and Venus Kausalya gave birth to an illustrious son Rama. She
beheld him the pride of the Ikshvakus, with great joy. Blessed with
every sign of divinity, he was one half of Visnu. Kaikeyi's son
Bharata whose purity of mind was flawless was born under the next
star Pushya, which was ascendant in the Meena lagna. To Sumithra were
born the equally impeccable Lakshmana and Satrughna in the Karkataka
lagna when the star Aslesha appeared. These incarnations of Visnu as
the four sons of Dasaratha radiated effulgence like the stars of
Purvabhadra and Uttarabhadra. At that auspicious moment the palace
reverberated with joy. Gandharvas sang, apsaras danced the kettle
drums of heaven boomed and the skies rained flowers. The streets of
Ayodhya thronged and reverberated with the sound of music, revelry
and joy as the citizens celebrated the birth of the divine princes.
Twelve days after the birth of the princes, Vasishta performed
appropriate rituals and named the first born of princes Rama,
Kaikeyi's son as Bharata and Sumithra's twins as Lakshmana and
Satrughna. The brahmins were feted, feasted and showered with gifts
and the people of Ayodhya came in droves from towns and country to
share the joy of the palace.
The sons of Dasratha, who soon the Vedas, were virtuous,
valiant, and ever concerned about the welfare of the people. Among
them Rama, devout, dedicated and free of all taint endeared himself
to the entire world and was Dasaratha's most beloved son. Lakshmana,
ho loved Rama more than his life followed him like his own shadow.
Rama too reciprocated his brother's love. He could neither eat not
sleep without Lakshmana who followed his brother with ready bow and
arrow to ward off any danger that might ensue! Bharata and Satrughna
also had a strong bond between them; Though Dasaratha took great
pride in them, the princes never took advantage of his affection, but
ever humble. They were always ready to serve him with love and
reverence. Renowned for their great knowledge, wisdom and virtue,
they were yet modest and aware of the ways of the world.
Dasaratha gave thought to the marriage of his sons. On
day while he was conferring with his ministers and kinsmen.
Visvamitra the mighty ascetic arrived at the gates of the palace
commanding the guards. “Announce at once that I Kausika, son of
Gadhi have come”! And Dasaratha along with Vasishta hurried to
welcome and honor the most renowned of sages. Visvamitra embraced
Vasishta asking him of him welfare and the of other sages. He then
asked Dasaratha about his subjects, his relative, the state of his
treasury and about his religious pursuits to propitiate the gods and
if tributary kings were submissive.
Quivering with excitement Dasaratha answered
Visvamitra's questions and said, “Your arrival has rendered
this place holy and is as welcome as is rain to the desert. I am
honored! Tell me what I can do for you and I, with your blessings
will achieve it!” The sound of those words pleased Visvamitra's
ears and delighted his mind!
BALAKANDA
SARGA 19
Touched by Dasaratha's grace and the beauty of his words
Visvamitra said "Noble king of the mighty Ikshvaku dynasty
guided by Vasishta you alone can speak thus. Let me now tell you the
purpose of my visit, and may your pledge to do my will be redeemed!
Engaged in performing certain rituals I am facing great hindrances,
from the rakshasas Maricha and Subahu who have been raining flesh and
blood on the sacrificial altar. These demons whose magical powers
allow them to take any form at will, disrupt my efforts at all times
and I have come away in despair. I cannot unleash my wrath upon them
either, for the ritual is such that it forbids my uttering of curses
while it is being conducted. So I ask you, give me Rama your first
born who knows no fear. He alone with his divine radiance is capable
of slaying the rakshasas and I shall spread his fame in all the three
worlds. Maricha and Subahu are of no match for Rama. They can never
face him! Deem them dead already! I know of Rama's boundless courage
and might which broods no retaliation .The most powerful Vasishta
knows and so do the other sages. If your dharma and your fame are to
remain forever on this earth, give me Rama! If Vasishta and your
ministers allow it, send Rama with me, for ten nights. Let not the
auspicious time set for my ritual slip away and do not sorrow.”
Visvamitra having said what he had to fell silent and Dasaratha
shattered and frightened sat on his throne, trembling with fear
BALAKANDA
SARGA 20
Emerging form his daze Dasaratha said," Rama is not
even sixteen years of age. Is it possible for him to war with the
rakshasas? I have an entire Akshauhini of which I am the lord
and master. I shall go to war with those armies for they and not Rama
can vanquish the enemy. With bow in hand so long as there is life in
me I shall protect the yagna and fight Maricha and Subahu.
Rama is but a mere boy of twelve years inexperienced in war and in
the wielding of weapons. He is no match for the rakshasas who are
notorious for their treachery. Separated from Rama I cannot live!
Born to me after sixty thousand years he is my greatest delight, so
do spare him" Dasaratha then wanted to know more about the
rakshasas, “What are their powers? Who are they and whose sons
are they? What kind of bodies do they have and how does one counter
their treachery? Neither Rama nor I can match their magical powers,
nor ward off their evil because these creatures are justly proud of
being invincible. Great Brahmin! How can Rama oppose these deceitful
demons?" And Visvamitra said, "Born of the Paulastya
dynasty, a rakshasa by name Ravana armed with a boon from Brahma, has
been tormenting the three worlds. Strong and mighty he always has
bands of his fellow beings with him. He is the brother of Kubera and
son of Visravas. Though Ravana is not obstructing my sacrifices
Maricha and Subahu do so at his behest."
Having heard Visvamitra, Dasaratha said, "I have
not the strength to confront Ravana. Visvamitra! You are my guru
and my god. Be gracious when even the devas danavas, yakshas
or Pannagas can not face Ravana, how can men bear him? And
how can Rama, a little boy who has not even heard of wars do so. How
can I send my son to fight those monsters that seem to be the very
incarnations of death?" When Visvamitra heard Dasaratha, he
exploded into a terrible rage, blazing like the flames of a
sacrificial fire fed by oblations!
BALAKANDA
SARGA 21
Infuriated with Dasaratha's words, Visvamitra said,
"It is unworthy of you born of the race of Ikshvaku to go back on a promise. If
you think that proper, I shall go away just as I had come and may you and your
kin live happily." The earth shuddered at Visvamitra's anger and the
devatas grew fearful! Vasishta, worshipful, wise and courageous perceived
trouble and reasoned with Dasaratha, "Lord, it does not befit you an Ikshvaku,
reputed as the most righteous in the three worlds to abandon that very dharma to
tread the path of adharma! Unjust and unworthy is this breach of promise
which will augur nothing but ill will. Skilled or unskilled in weaponry Rama
protected by Kausika will be inviolable to the rakshasas.”
If dharma took a form, it would be known as
Visvamitra! This great sage whose might, valor and wisdom have no compare has
knowledge of every weapon that exists in the three worlds! Supreme source of
ascetic power, he has the skill to wield every one of them, which other men have
neither seen nor heard of or ever will. Not even the celestials know of them!
While Visvamitra was still a king, Lord Siva gifted those weapons to him. Not
only does Visvamitra posses them but has created newer ones. Never fear for
Rama's safety so long as he is with the sage, who implores you to send Rama not
because he cannot vanquish the demons but because he wants Rama's fame to
pervade the earth." With all his fears allayed Dasaratha consented to let Rama
accompany Visvamitra.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 22
Dasaratha inspired by Vasishta's gentle persuasion
beamed with joy. Summoning Rama and Lakshmana he along with and queen
Kausalya bade farewell to Rama and Lakshmana amidst Vedic chants and
auspicious mantras. Tranquil of mind and free of anguish
Dasaratha fondly kissed Rama on his forehead and delivered him into
the care and guidance of Visvamitra. As the great sage set out with
Rama, Vayu, the god of wind blew caressingly, the drums of heaven
sounded, the skies rained flowers and the palace reverberated with
the sound of conches. Visvamitra journeyed back followed by Rama and
Lakshmana. With a pair of quivers strapped to their shoulders and
armed with bows the princes were a power to reckon with. As they
marched forth, their brilliance illumined the entire world. They
followed Visvamitra like the twin Aswini Devatas, born of the
god of fire.
With wrist and finger guards made of ‘Godha’
skin strapped on, bow in hand, lustrous, handsome and beautifully
attired the sons of Dasaratha followed the sage like Skanda and
Visaka. When they reached the right bank of Sarayu, Visvamitra full
of grace and love said, "Rama, dear boy, sip this water let not
the auspicious moments slip by. Accept from me a conglomeration of
mantras called Bala and AtiBala. Armed with
these, you shall suffer neither fever nor fatigue, nor will your
beauty fade. No rakshasa can harm you even if you are asleep or off
guard. The might of your arms, in wielding the bow and arrow will be
unrivaled. You shall have no equal in these three worlds either in
skill, beauty kindness, intellect, resolve or in flawless judgment
after the mastery of these mantras. Bala and AtiBala
are the mothers of wisdom and knowledge. They will set one free from
thirst and hunger. These two mantras are the grand daughters
of Lord Brahma. The repeated chanting of these will earn you
unequaled fame. You alone are worthy of receiving them. Recited with
ascetic discipline they will bestow rare and manifold benefits on
you.”
After bathing in the shimmering waters of the Sarayu and
performing ‘achamana’, Rama received the two
mantras from Visvamitra the power of which enhanced the glow to match
the splendor of the Sun god. With Visvamitra’s caring
ministrations, Rama and Lakshamana spent a comfortable night sleeping
in the open on a bed of grass, on the banks of Sarayu
BALAKANDA
SARGA 23
At dawn the next day Visvamitra said to Rama, "Beloved
son of Kausalya, O! Rama, wake up, it is dawn and time for the
morning worship and oblations to the gods." The princes rose,
bathed in the waters of the Sarayu, offered oblations to the Sun god
and chanted the holy Gayatri mantra after which they continued
on their journey. Soon they arrived at the confluence of the holy
rivers Sarayu and Ganga, which then divided into three paths. Here
they came upon the sacred hermitage of Anchorites, who had after
observing the most awesome of austerities for many thousands of years
had become the supreme possessors of vital powers. The beautiful
sight of the hermitage delighted the princes and aroused their
interest. They asked the sage as to whom the hermitage belonged and
who dwelt there. Smiling gently Visvamitra said, “In the days
of yore, this belonged to Manmatha, god of love, who at one time
lived here in human form. He dared to distract Siva who was in deep
meditation along with the Maruths. Enraged at this sacrilege
Siva let out a fearful roar and opened his eyes. His anger blazing
out of his third eye like an inferno consumed Manmatha, burning him
limb by limb, until he became one with space. Devoid of a form he
came to be known as Ananga and the beautiful place where he gave up
his body came to be known as the land of Ananga. This holiest of holy
places belonged to Siva and these ascetics are descendants of his
disciples who live their lives in bliss and piety”.
Visamitra told Rama that they would all spend the night
at this hermitage which lay between the two holy rivers, Sarayu and
Ganga. They were to perform ablutions at dawn, in the river Ganga
followed by oblations with clarified butter as part of the purifying
ritual and then enter the hermitage. While Visvamitra was conversing
with Rama and Lakshmana the holy men of that hallowed sanctuary
sensed their presence. With their all pervading spiritual vision
reaching beyond the veil of time, they recognized their noble guests.
Immensely pleased, they respectfully offered them water to wash their
feet. Hospitality was extended first to Visvamitra and thereafter to
Rama and Lakshamana whose grace and reverence pleased the noble
souls. At dusk, the hermitage reverberated with Vedic chants. In that
famed hermitage, where Kama was destroyed, the three travelers spent
the night while Visvamitra regaled the princes with enchanting tales.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 24
At daybreak having performed the morning rituals Rama
and Lakshmana arrived on the banks of Ganga preceded by Visvamithra.
The noble hermits of the Kama hermitage procured a boat for their
honored guests, wished them a safe journey and bade them farewell
with their blessings. Paying respectful homage to the pious hosts
Visvamitra along with the young Ikshvakus crossed the gushing Ganga.
As the boat reached mid-stream, Rama and Lakshmana heard
a deafening noise and when Rama asked Visvamitra about it, he said,
"In the mind of Brahma was born a vision, which manifested
itself on mount Kailas as a lake. It was conceived in the intellect
of Brahma it came to be known as Manasa sarovar. The river Sarayu
flows from Manasa and the great noise that you hear emanates from the
turbulence of its waters. The roar of the bounding flow reaches a
crescendo when its waters clash with those of the Ganga, at the
confluence of the two mighty rivers. Do pay homage to these two holy
rivers”. Rama and Lakshmana did so and then reached the
southern bank of the river. Marching forward at a brisk pace they
soon came upon the most fearsome of forests. Trackless and dense it
showed no signs of any human having ever ventured into it. Filled
with beasts and birds of prey swarming with insects shrill with the
incessant call of crickets and the shrieking of vultures, the forest
was a cacophony of multitude sounds. The wooded canopy thick and dark
was made up of Bilva, Asvakarna, Kabuka, Tinduka and Patella under
which lions, tigers, boars and elephants roamed.
“What forbidding forest is this?” Asked Rama
and Visvamitra said, "Long ago this land flourished as Malada
and Karasu. Abounding in wealth and grain it was built by divine
beings. At that period of time Indra killed Vritrasura. Doomed and
overpowered by the sin of slaying a Brahmin, Indra was cursed with
impurity and endless hunger. Taking pity on his plight, the devas
aided by the spiritual and ascetic powers of heavenly sages cleansed
him of that transgression. The impurity and taint shed by Indra was
deposited at this spot. Purified and freed of his monstrous hunger
Indra bestowed a wonderful boon on the land for having absorbed his
taint to absolve him of his sin. By the power of the boon Malada and
Karusa became flourishing cities of great renown. As the years went
they became increasingly prosperous. Blessed with riches and
plentiful grain, there was no dearth of anything in the land.
Several years later a yakshni called Tataka arrived upon
that affluence in the form of fear and destruction. With the strength
of a thousand elephants and capable of taking any form at will the
ignoble Tataka was the wife of an intelligent yaksha by name Sunda.
Her son Maricha was gigantic and his powers matched to those of
Indra. The wicked mother and the son struck terror and wrought havoc
on Malada and Karusa. It is here that the yakshini dwells, infesting
the forest and obstructing free passage. None can traverse it as she
hungers for human flesh. Repulsive, unconquerable and revolting of
form, she strikes fear in the hearts of all living beings and also
reigns supreme rendering in this region devoid of all human life. O!
Rama, slay Tataka with the might of your arms and rid the forest of
her diabolic presence. Freed of evil, the land will once again become
habitable”.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 25
Rama having heard Visvamitra asked him another question,
“The yakshas are said to be gracious and mild. How did this
yaksha woman come to possess the might of a thousand elephants?”
The sage said, “Tataka by virtue of a boon acquired phenomenal
strength. In the days gone by, there lived a powerful and famed
yaksha, by name Suketu who performed great austerities for begetting
a son. Prajapati did not grant Sukethu a son but gave him a daughter
upon whom he also bestowed the strength of a thousand elephants. Born
by the boon of the Lord Creator, Tataka grew to be ravishingly
beautiful and was given in marriage to Sunda, son of Jharjha.
To this charming couple was born a son strong and
invincible. Though born of yaksha parentage, he was cursed to become
a rakshasa. Later when Agastya killed Sunda. Enraged, Tataka went on
a rampage and she along with her son Maricha rushed forth with the
intent of on devouring the sage. Agastya the most powerful of
ascetics cursed Maricha and denounced Tataka saying, “From now
on you will take the hideous form of a rakshasa woman and losing all
beauty, will live on human flesh”. Provoked and fuming Tataka
exploded into a violent senseless anger. Wrecking vengeance on the
sacred land hitherto tread upon and sanctified by the holy feet of
Agastya, she rendered it unfit and unworthy of all human habitation.
"Rama, you alone can end Tataka’s reign of
terror. Diabolic of nature, maligned by the curse she is a threat to
this very earth. Kill her for the welfare of the Brahmins and the
cows. You need not show her either pity or compassion that is usually
shown to a woman. It is the duty of a king, to do so in the interest
and safety of his subjects. To this end you should not differentiate
between man and woman. To protect his people the king should
discharge his duty towards an act whether it is cruel or
compassionate, sinful or honorable. It is an eternal law which binds
those in power, appointed to bear the burden of the kingdom. Rama!
Slay her for she does not abide by dharma. Destroy her like Indra
destroyed Manthara, the daughter of Virochana, who wanted to
annihilate the earth. Many divine persons and eminent men of great
honor and valor have slain unrighteous women for the sake of dharma".
BALAKANDA
SARGA 26
Rama bowing to Visvamitra with great reverence said, "In
Ayodhya, my father Dasaratha commanded me in the presence of the
eminent to carry out every wish of yours, without hesitation. Out of
respect for his father’s words and your wishes I will execute
that act of dharma, for the welfare of not only the cows and
Brahmins, but also for the prosperity of the country. I stand ready
to do as you bid and take upon myself the task of eliminating the
menace of Tataka". Rama then held his bow and twanged at the
string, sending out a fearful sound, which reverberated in all the
four directions even as the dwellers of forest trembled with fear.
Tataka unaware and confused at what could have caused the thunderous
sound ran out in a great fury.
Wrathful and ugly, Tataka came bounding striking terror
into the hearts of the not so brave. Seeing her, Rama said to
Lakshmana, “She looks invincible and she possesses magical
powers. I am going to disfigure her by cutting her nose and ears for
I am averse to killing a woman. I will also deprive her of her
strength and her power of motion by doing away with her limbs. The
infuriated monster charged forward generating a fierce dust
storm which dismayed Rama and Lakshmana for a moment. Tataka then
rained on the Ikshvaku princes who in anger retaliated that rain of
rocks with a rain of arrows and cut off the hands of the demon as she
was advancing.
Deprived of her limbs, worn out, roaring with anger and
writhing in pain, Tataka then lost her ears and nose to the wrath of
Lakshamana. Then using her magical powers she vanished from sight but
did not stop from sending another torrent of rocks as a parting shot.
Seeing Rama and Lakshmana hit by the rocks Visvamitra spoke up, “She
does not deserve any more mercy. This yakshini who is
sinful and wicked deserves death. She will regain her strength soon,
so slay her before dusk, for after the Sun sets the rakshasas become
invincible". Rama marching forward detracted the raining rocks
with his arrows, which were capable of detecting and traveling in the
direction of sound.
Frustrated that her being invisible proved futile,
Tataka hurled herself at Rama, who swift as lightening shot her in
the chest with an arrow and she fell lifeless. Seeing the mountainous
heap of matter, as frightening in death as in life, the lord of the
gods and the gods themselves honored Rama and commended his valor.
Indra blessed Visvamitra with prosperity and fame for having
gratified the devas by encouraging Rama to annihilate the
fearful yakshini. He also wanted Visvamitra to reward Rama
with the astras of Bhrisasvas the two weapons endowed with
ascetic power and energy. “Rama alone is worthy of them. He
alone can use them to ward off many such evils to come and protect
the celestials", said Indra. Devatas and siddhas
praised Rama for killing Tataka. Liberated from the curse of Tataka
and her dreaded presence the forest regained its radiant charm and
came to be as splendid as that of Kubera’s Chitraratha.
Visvamitra happy at the death of Tataka, fondly kissed
Rama on the forehead saying that they should all rest for the night
and journey on to his hermitage on the morrow. Rama retired for the
night and woke up at dawn to the call of Visvamitra.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 27
At daybreak, smiling with affection Visvamitra said
“Rama, I am pleased and proud of the good you have done to this
earth by slaying Tataka. Fulfilled and happy, I bequeath the wealth
of weapons to you with love. With these you will be victorious not
only against devas and rakshasas, but also against the
gandharvas, nagas, uragas and all others, of whom you will be
the master.”
Starting with the celestial Danda, Dharma, Kala and,
Visnu chakras the Vajra astras, the prestigious spear of Siva,
Brahmashivaastra, the Aishikaastra and the mightiest of
all, the Brahmastra; the two brilliant maces, Modaki and
Shikari along with Dharmapasa and Kalapasa shall be
yours. The sage gave away these and many more mighty and exalted
astras.
Visvamitra having purified himself stood facing east,
while he conferred the astras on Rama. He taught Rama the
complete acquisition and the incantations to evoke those weapons,
difficult to attain even by the celestials. Evoked by Visvamitra, the
presiding deities of the weapons manifested themselves into Rama’s
presence saying, "We are your servants ". Receiving the
astras, Rama touched the astra devatas with his hand,
as a token of acceptance and wished them to come, whenever he invoked
them. Pleased and fulfilled he paid respectful homage to the noble
sage Visvamitra
BALAKANDA
SARGA 28
Setting out after accepting the weapons, with an
expression of joy, Rama said to Kausika, “with the power of
these weapons I am invincible even to the gods, but I still have no
knowledge of withdrawing them”. Visvamitra telling Rama of how
to withdraw those weapons, propelled by mantras asked him to
receive from him some more astras – Satyavanta, Satya Kirit,
Dhrishta, Rabhasa, PratiharaTara, Paranmukha, Avanmukha, Lakshaksha,
Vishama, Dhrudanabha, Sunabha, Dasaksha, Satavakrta, Dasashirsha,
Satodara, Padmanabha, Mahanabha, undunabha, Sunabhaka, Jyotisha
Prusanam, both Nairasya and, Vimala, Yogandhara,
Haridra, Daitya, Prasamana, Sarchirmali, Dhri, Mali, Vritimanta,
Ruchira, Pitriu Sanmanasa, both Vidhuta, Makara, KaraveeraKara,
Dhana, Dhanya, KamaRoopa, Kama Ruchi, Moha, Avarana, Jhrumbaka,
Sarvanabha, Santhana and Varuna.
Rama received these astras with delight. Some of
the astra devatas were dark, like coal dug from the bowels of
the earth while some were like smoke. Some others shone like the rays
of the Sun and the Moon, some had bodies of great brilliance and all
reverently bowed to Rama. Visvamitra with utmost grace told Rama that
the astras should be commanded as to what they should
accomplish and told the astras to be aware of Rama”s
wishes. Rama then said to astra devatas “You may go as
you wish, for now. But keep yourselves ready and alert to come, when
I invoke you in my mind”. Promising to do so they worshipfully
took leave of him.
Walking along with Visvamitra Rama said “ I see a
green canopy over at that mountain with the dance of tree tops the
symphony of cooing birds and the wandering of restless animals it is
beautiful. From the aura of this region and its serenity I gather we
have emerged from that terrifying forest. Is that the place where we
will find those and wicked killers of Brahmins? What sacrilegious
and infamous people create obstacles to your godly pursuits and where
is the sacrificial altar, which I must protect? Where are the
rakshasas whom I must slay?”
BALAKANDA
SARGA 29
Visvamitra coming out of the Tataka forest said
“Pre-eminent among the devatas and lord of the three worlds
Visnu as a pious ascetic had once lived here immersed in yogic
practices and penance for many hundred yugas. This holy
hermitage formerly belonged to Vamana who was also an incarnation of
lord Narayana who had also attained perfection. From then on, this
place where Kasyapa also became a Siddha, was known as
Siddhashrama.
At the same period of time, when Visnu was observing
austerities, emperor Bali, son of Virochana, had vanquished Indra,
the Maruths and devas. Renowned for his valor and generosity, had
established his sovereignty throughout the three worlds. While he was
performing a yagna to retain that supremacy the gods led by Agni
assembled here in this hermitage and told Visnu of Bali’s
yagna. They said that they must achieve their purpose before
he completed the Yagna as he was giving away virtually every
thing he had, however much it may be to any one who came to him,
asking for a gift. Transform yourself into Vamana a dwarf and
accomplish the auspicious mission ”Said the gods.
While the devatas were pleading with Visnu,
Kasyapa arrived effulgent like the fire his brilliance enhanced by
virtue of his association with Aditi, having ended his rigorous
penance lasting a thousand divine years said, "Oh lord! You are
the divinity to be worshiped with penance. Your nature is penance and
you are an embodiment of pure knowledge. Your divine form is visible
to me only through the powers of my penance and in you I see the
entire universe. To you, who have neither beginning nor end, who are
all pervading and beyond description, I prostrate". Pleased,
Visnu said, “Kasyapa may you prosper. You are worthy of a boon,
do ask for one”, and Kasyapa said, “ O Lord ! I beg you
to grant a boon to my wife Aditi, to the devas and to me. May
you be born as our son and as brother to Indra, for the deliverance
of the tormented devatas”. Kasyapa further implored,
“Lord of devas! With my penance bearing fruit and with your
blessings, may this hermitage be renowned as Siddhashrama and
may you reincarnate in this place.”
The lord heeding to Kasyapa’s wishes incarnated
through Aditi as Vamana the dwarf and set out to the land of Bali.
Visnu ever the giver and never the receiver in the form of Vamana
desired of Bali three feet of land. It was granted. The two feet
measured by the feet of the lord took up the entire surface of the
earth, the dome of the sky and the depths of the world. Restraining
Bali with his divine powers he put his foot on Bali's head. Visnu
then returned all the three worlds into Indra's care”.
In this hermitage which removes the fatigue of worldly
life which had once belonged to Vamana I now reside by virtue of my
immense devotion and reverence to him. The wicked demons are even
now advancing towards the hermitage to hinder and obstruct my yagna.
You have to slay these mean rakshasas right here and now, let us go
now to that sacred hermitage, which is as much yours, as it is mine.
Upon entering the hermitage they were greeted by those
dwelling in the hermitage. Rushing out to worship Visvamitra, Rama
and Lakshmana. they said with reverence “May glory be yours,
Kausika! Begin your austerities this very day. May this Siddhashrama,
prosper by the powers of your yagna and gain great fame”.
BALAKANDA
SARGA 30
The valiant princes Rama and Lakshmana now stood ready
to avert the marauding demons from disrupting the sacrifice. Pleased
at their eagerness to repel the rakshasas, the sages commended the
royal brothers and told them that Visvamitra would remain in silence
until the conclusion of the yagna and that they were to stand
guard for six nights.
Bowing to the ascetics, the famed Ikshvaku princes
watched over the hermitage for six days and nights forgoing sleep to
protect Visvamitra. On the sixth day Rama warned Lakshmana to be on
guard and doubly vigilant and waited impatiently to combat the
demons. Just then the sacrificial fires tended by Visvamitra and
other sages suddenly leaped into a great blaze enhancing the radiance
of the altar adorned by the greatest of sages Kausika. Ritual
articles like the Kusa grass, ladles, vessels and flowers, showed up
starkly in the brightness of those flames. Suddenly a loud noise
frightening and thunderous was heard. And Out of the blue sky
blotting out the blue of it, came Maricha and Subahu. Threatening as
rain clouds they came with their dreaded followers who poured down
torrents of blood. Furious at the desecration of the holy altar,
Rama rushed forward and seeing the demons hurling towards him called
out to Lakshmana, “watch, as I scatter these evil, flesh eating
rakshasas, like wind blown clouds, with the weapon, Manava”.
That weapon hurled Maricha into the ocean flood, a hundred yojanas
away where he lay crushed and unconscious. Rama then told Lakshmana,
that though stunned Maricha was not dead but he would kill all the
other blood-thirsty rakshasas who destroyed holy yagnas.”
Rama took up the immensely powerful Agneya astra
and shot at Subahu who pierced to the heart fell to earth, dead. The
remaining demons fell prey to the power of Vayavya astra.
Having slain those evildoers thwarting yagnas and yagas,
Rama received worshipful tribute from the seers, like Indra on the
occasion of his victory over rakshasas. Visvamitra lauded Rama
beholding the four directions cleared and cleansed of all evil. He
said “I have achieved my purpose and you have honored your
father’s word. With victory over the rakshasas the name of this
sanctuary, as Siddhashrama has been justified”.
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