Jain Ramayan

Author(s): Gunratnasuri
Publisher: Jingun Aradhak Trust
Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006947/1

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ILLUSTRATED. Jain Ramayaga A Unique Combination of Universal Philosophy & Jain Culture. Acaryadeva Sri Gunaratna suriji M.S. For Personal & Private Use Only

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ILLUSTRATED Jain Camayana Acaryadeva Sri Gunaratna Suriji M. S. SAWWIDDISSION Pers & Private mo

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Writer P.P. Dvisatadhika Diksa Danesvari Acaryadeva SRI GUNARATNASURISVARAJI M.S. Publisher and available at JINGUNA ARADHAKA TRUST 151, Gulalwadi, Kika Street, 1st Floor, Mumbai - 400004. Tel.: 3474791, 3867581. First Edition : January 2004 Price : Rs. 400/- Outside India : 8 $ ALL RIGHTS RESERVED FOR PUBLISHER TO REPRINT OF THIS BOOK OR ANY OTHER CHAPTER. Also available at MULTY GRAPHICS 18, Vardhaman Bldg., 3rd Floor, Khotachi Wadi, V. P. Road, Mumbai - 400004. Tel.: (022) 23873222, 23884222 7) MANOJ KUMAR B. HARAN Bombay Metal Mart, P. B.285, Madgaon, Goa - 403601, Tel.: 722859. (R) 735027/034 (14) JAIN SAMAJ 69, Ronle Fields Avenue Leicester L.E. 32 E.S. (15) Shree Japan Jain Sangh 7-5 Kitendcho, 3 Chome Cho-Ku Kobe, Japan. NAUTAM R. VAKIL A1/D1, Smrit Suman Apt. 28, Jain Society, Ellisbridge, Ahemadabad - 380 006. Tel.: 26576210. Mobile : 9825159617 Email: nautamanautamvakil.com Web: www.nautamvakil.com MAHAVEER JAIN UPKARAN BHANDAR Subhash Chowk, Gopipura, Main Road, Surat - 395003. Tel.: 7440265, 7439223 (16) SHREE SWETAMBER SANGH DEVESIBHAI Jain Building Lag. Post Box No. 80 722 Mombasa (Kenya) 9) SEVANTILAL V. JAIN 20, Mahajan Gali, Zaveri Bazar, 1st Floor, Shop No. 2, Mumbai - 400002. Tel.: 22404717 SUGHOSHA KARYALAYA Taleti Road, Palitana, Gujrat - 364270. (17) K. P. SANGHVI Samdimon. N.V. 30. Hovenierstaap. Room - 609, 2018, Antwerpen (Belgium) Ph - (O) 2329300 - 2262378 10) GURU GAUTAM ENTERPRISES Near Adinath Jain Mandir, Chickpet, Banglore-560053. Tel.: (080) 2253566 MAHAVEER JAIN ARADHANA KENDRA Koba, Dist. Gandhi Nagar, Gujrat - 382009. RAMESH COLOR COMPANY 2, Subramaniyam Lane, 1st Floor, Ratan Bazar View, Chennai - 600003. Tel.: 5351277 / 4479 11) K. C. JAIN & CO. 2 Mount Road, Hendon, London, NW 43AD. Tele-0181-202-9089 M 0850 - 392368 F0181-202-2830 (12) BHARATIBEN HIMANSHU SHAH 26, Old Homestand Road, Searing Town, New York - 11507 U.S.A.516 294 7323 (18) AURO GOLD JEWELLERY PVD. GOLD LINK GOLD L.L.C Anil, Kothari Shashi Kothari Bank of Baroda, Flat No. 1301, 13th Floor park, Dubai. Tel.: 0097143535662 MOTILAL BANARASIDAS 41, U-A, Bunglow Road, Delhi - 110007. Tel.: 2918335/1985 (13) KINGSBURY PRINTERS, DILIPBHAI, 242 A Kingbury Road, Behind Fina Petrol Pump, N.W.9 London, England. (19) JAIN EDUCATION FEDERATION OF JAIN Pravinbhai K. Shah, Chair person, 50g Carriage wood Circle, Raleigh NC 27607 - 3969 U.S.A. Email - education @Jainaorg Tele. and Fax 919-859-4994. Web: www.Jaina.org/www.Jainsim.org (20) NAVAKAR ENTERPRISE LTD. 143 Te Atatu Road, Te Atatu South, Auck Land 1008, New Zealand, (09) 8388425 Bus. 8368714 Home Fax - 09-8368715 jaina rAmAyaNa Designed and Printed by MULTY GRAPHICS 18, Vardhaman Bldg., 3rd Floor, Khotachi Wadi, V. P. Road, Mumbai - 400004. Tel.: (022) 23873222, 23884222. For Personal & E-mail: multygraphics @vsnl.net www.ainelibrary Jain Education al

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Grand Guru : P. P. Acarya Sri Bhuvanabhanusurisvaraji M.S. Author P. P. Dvisatadhika Diksa Danesvari Acaryadeva Sri Gunaratnasurisvaraji M.S. Initiator : P. P. Acarya Sri Premasurisvaraji M.S. Under the Blessings of P.P. Acarya Sri Jayaghosasurisvaraji M.S. Author's Guru : P.P. Acarya Sri Jitendra Surisvaraji M.S. hntroduction of the Author Name : P. P. Dvisatadhika Diksa Danesvari Acaryadeva Sri Gunaratnasurisvaraji M.S. Date of Birth : Virasamvata 1989 Posa Suda 4, 1932 A.D. at Padarli (Raj.) Diksa : Virasamvata 2010 Maha Suda 4, 1954 A.D. at Mumbai Gani Padavi : Virasamvata 2041 Magsara Suda 11. 1984 A.D. at Ahmadabad. Pamyasa Padavi : Virasamvata 2044 Fagana Suda 2. 1988 A.D. at Jalore (Raj.) Acarya Padavi : Virasamvata 2044 Jetha Suda 10, 1988 A.D. at Padarli (Raj.) Languages known : Gujarati, hindi, marathi, sanskrta, prakrta, english Literary Creations : Khavagasedhi, Upasamanakarana etc. in sanskrta and prakrta treatise, A visit to Shatrunjay in gujarati, hindi and english. Jain Ramayana' in gujarati, hindi and english, 'The Night mare is over' in english and gujarati. The study of ancient sciences : Nyaya, Vyakarana, Kavya, Chanda, Agama. * became an ascetic at the age of 21 inspite of being engaged * inspired 3200 individuals perform a samuhika caitra oli at Jiravala tirtha administered the pledge of asceticizm to 28 youths at Surat and to 38 youths at Palitana. Total no. of diksas 232 inspired to build Bherutaraka tirtha, whose installation cermony was attended by 700 sadhu-sadhvis, and during the Caitri-oli conducted there, 274 people took a vow of celibacy ie the fourth vow * 4700 fasts of three days at Sankhesvara maha tirtha, under his aegis, at Surat diksa, group Samayika of 51,000, at Palitana of 52,000 and at Ahmedabad of 5500 men was organised German professor Mr. Clause Broon showered accolades on 'Khavagasedhi'. delivered Sermons at 42 spiritual camps. * more than 75 disciples @ain helped more than 90,000 students to enlighten their hearts through free Visvaprakasa. Patracara syllabus under the aegis of Nakoda trust www.ainelibrary.org

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Pavlisier's Nette CORRELDING Ramayana is an integral part of the Indian culture since ages. Therefore, we find it published in all the Indian languages. Many Jain versions of Ramayana are available. Some of them have pictures in black and white, but the T.V. age or computer age demanded something more than this. The modern time demands attractive four colour pictures; for they make a book not only attractive but also interesting. "One picture is more than a thousand words." Diksadanesvari Acaryadevasri Gunaratnasurisvaraji m.s. had conceived and nutured a dream of Ramayana since past fourteen years. His sermons on Ramayana have stirred and touched innumerable hearts at Jodhpur, Pali, Nagore, Jalore, Sirohi, Bikaner, Ahmedabad etc. When he narrated the events from the life of Anjanasundari and Sitaji at Bikaner, artist like sri Dilip Soni, and many other followers of non-Jain faiths also couldn't control their tears. About fourteen years ago, during his caturmas sojourn at Jalore, Acaryadevasri discussed this noble theme of Ramayana with artist sri Dilipbhai Soni, in the minutest of detail, and a noble mission began. This book, alike Sri Ramaji, has taken fourteen years of hardship. It has taken tears and toil, blended with extensive research. Inspite of his hectic working schedules, the Acaryaji has painstakingly completed this book. The future generation will remain indebted to the Acaryasri for this herculean task. Many munisris also have spared efforts in making this book a valuable treasure, cherished by every heart, we are indebted to them. We thank our sponsors, co-sponsors and the devotees of knowledge. We thank Dilipbhai Soni for the aesthetic and authentic pictures. Multygraphics team also has enjoyed in publishing this book. We thank them and applaud their spirit of service. We are sure that you will love this book and request you to urge and inspire your friends and relatives also to read this book. For Personal & Private Use Only Sri Jinguna Aradhaka trust. www.ainelibrary.org

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Preface Since times immemorial Ramayana and Mahabharata have inspired, moulded and impressed the psyche, personality and social relations of the Indians, belonging to any state, any linguistic or ethnic group, following any sect or religion. These epics have originated in ancient aryaland. People of different racial stocks, people speaking different languages, people beleiving in diverse faiths and rituals resided here. Epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata kept the intrinsic unity of India alive, inspite of the apparent diversity. Starting from India, this epic reached China, Japan, Malaysia, Java, Sumatra, Borneo Kambodia. It has also reached Iran, Arabian nations and Israel. This epic Ramayana mingled easily in these diversed cultural backgrounds and at times assumed a totally new form. In India, Ramayana has influenced and moulded our behaviour towards our parents, progeny, spouses and friends, more than any other book, religious edifice, statutory laws, and the preaching of spiritualists. An Indian, whether he is a Muslim, Parsee, Christian or a Jew, is fully or partly conversant with Ramayana. There might not be a single person in India, who is ignorant about the noble life of Rama. Some scholars believe that the stories of Rama existed in scattered forms, much before Valamiki Ramayana was compiled. Besides the Valamiki Ramayana, mahakavi Tulasidasa wrote Ramcaritamanasa in Vraja language, which is held high in esteem by most of the hindi speaking North Indians. Durgavar compiled Mita Ramayana in Bengali language. Divakara Bhatta wrote Ramayana in Kashmiri language. Ekanatha wrote Bhavartha Ramayana in Marathi and Mahakavi Kampana wrote the Pampa Ramayana in kannada. Most of these versions are loyal to the epic compiled by Valamiki, but they have a regional fervor of their own. These writers using their muse and genius have at times made additions which are very aesthetic and add to the beauty of the original Ramayana. The Jain culture is an integral part of the Aryan culture. Contrary to the popular belief that lord Mahavira founded Jainism, the Jains believe that their pantheon is ageold. It existed much before the advent of Mahavira. Ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacarya and aparigraha are some of the gifts of Jainism to the modern world. The Jain culture is extensively found in India and some of the nations, surrounding India. However, we must remember that these nations were a part of the ancient undivided aryavrata. Jain Ramayana : The Jain pantheon states that Lord Munisuvrat Svami, a Tirthankara, was born more than 11,75,000 years ago. Suvrata Muni, the spiritual teacher and master of Sri Rama, was a descendant of Munisuvrat Svami. King Anaranya, the grand father of Rama, was born during his regime. The average life span of a man at that time was much longer. Rama must have been born much later. The Jain pantheon mentions that Lord Mahavira Svami learnt about Ramayana with his Kevalagyan and narrated it to his disciple Ganadhara Gautama, who compiled it in the form of sutras. It reached Sri Vimalasuri through the oral tradition. About 1996 years ago, he compiled the Ramayana in Magadhi language. This epic was called Paumacariyam. Most of the people who follow other faiths, and to a certain extent even jain children and youths are ignorant of the fact that there exists a jain version of Ramayana. For Personal & Private Use Only

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The hectic pace of modern life makes the pursuit of Sanskrta and Magadhi an impossible contingency. The chances of their learning and mastering these nearly extinct languages and then studying the original Ramayana are very remote. I therefore felt that Ramayana should be presented to them in hindi, english and gujarati. What's more, it should also be translated in languages like marathi, kannada, tamil, telgu etc to acquaint the people of other faiths with this epic. Jain Ramayana attracts and enchants the readers of any age group. The message of renouncement that this book preaches eloquently appeals the serious readers. After having experienced the bitter and sweet lessons from life, and after seeing many of the near and dear ones willingly or unwillingly embrace the death, they too are shattered like Rama. When Rama was in a state of delirium because of Laksmana's death, diety Krtantavadana and diety Jatayu opened his eyes. They acquainted him to the harsh and yet essential reality that Laksmana was dead and Rama too was going to follow him one day. I am sure, what the celestial duo did for Rama, this book would do for you. The valour and detachment found in abundance in this book will definitely attract the youth. Ravana commited a sinful act by kidnapping Sita. Rama and Laksmana did not hesitate for a moment before him for his wrong action. Even today, we see a perpetual battle between the good and evil in every walk of life and therefore, like Rama and Laksmana, we too must not wince before taking restrictive measures against evil. The complex relationship between the major characters in Ramayana is something unique. These relations have the background and bonds of previous lives. Love, hatred, anger, replusion and other vista's of emotions have deep roots in the past lives and unseen fruits in the future. Rama, Laksmana Bharata and Satrughna are always ready to put the 'U' before the T', together they are willing to lay their lives for the happi ness of their parents. Rama abandons his luxurious life, without thinking twice, so that his father could renounce the world without any unpaid debt. Laksmana follows Rama during the exile, in order to serve him. He too does not hesitate a moment before taking this major decision. Bharata bears the burden of the crown and scepter only when Rama orders him to do so. Sita too follows Rama, and leaves the palace and cosy life without grumbling. Though Kaikeyi hatches out the evil conspiracy of exiling Rama, he does not grudge. He bows down to Kaikeyi before leaving the palace and also after he returns. For him, Kaikeyi is not just a stepmother, but a true mother. These relations might be utopian to be true to modern man, but they too can set new ideals for themselves. In Jain Ramayana, we find sati Sita fully dedicated to Rama. While she was at Lanka, her mind was fully focused on Jinesvara and Rama. This total surrenderance gave her the strength to endure the enticements and threatenings of Ravana. She does not blame Rama, when he abandons her or when he asks her to perform the Jan Educatiemational ordeal. She faces it with stoic.courage. Mandodari, on the other handww.ainelibrary.org

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loves her husband to such an extent that she is not only willing to share her love, but becomes his envoy and pleads Sita to accept his love. Kausalya's heart aches while granting Rama the permission to leave Ayodhya, but when the time comes to bid goodbye to Sita, it bleeds profusely. She is an ideal mother-inlaw. Every character in Ramayana represents lofty ideals. Rama is an ideal son, brother, husband, foe and a monk. Sita is an ideal daughter, wife, daughter-in-law, mother and an ideal ascetic. The characters like, Sugriva, Hanumana, vidhyadhars who can fly, Jatayu and other celestial beings who can perform miracles, attract the children. Hanumana, who not only posseses enormous strength but also intelligence and humble nature, enthrall the children. The plot of Ramayana unfolds not only on the earth, but also in the different levels of the celestial world and the under world. It also embodies the present, past, very remote past and future, in the most fascinating way, and the plot changes these tracks in such a smooth way that mind of the readers is not distracted. There is a school of thought which believes that when the ksatriya kings accepted Jainism as a way of life, they began to abhor violence in any form and became totally submissive and docile. This gradually killed the patriotic fervour in their hearts and they became puppets in the hands of destiny. This has brought the downfall of India. Only those who can endure its austerities and the spirit of detachment can be true followers of Jainism. On the contrary, the epics like Jain Ramayana and Mahabharata state that Rama, Laksmana and Pandavas resorted to violence in order to vanquish their foes, who were menace to the mankind. In the whole, Jainism preaches its followers to crusade against injustice, immorality and evil behaviour. This aspect of Jainism is clearly seen in the Ramayana. "Vasudeva hindi", the composition of P. P. Sanghadasa Gani is the most ancient treatise on Ramayana, but "Paumacariyar" written by P. P. Vimalasuriji is the most popular. "Uttarapurana" composed by P. P. Gunabhadra M. S. and "Kathavali" written by P. P. Bhadresvara M. S. are also the Jain Ramayanas. I have used the following books for reference, "Padmapurana" written by P. P. Ravisena M. S.. "Mahapurana" written by P. P. Svayambhu M. S.. "Punya Candrodaya Puran" of P. P. Krsnadasa M. S.. "Satrunjayamahatmya" written by P.P. Dhanesvara Suri M. S.. "Covana Mahapurisa Cariyarh" by P. P. Silacarya M. S. and Trisasti Salaka Purusa Caritra of P. P. A. Hemacandracarya Suri M. S. and its english version, translated by Helen M. Johnson P.hd. I express my gratitudes to all of them. How will this book help the reader? At first, today we Indians take a perverst pride in aping the western world. We are gradually throttling our own culture, in the name of spirit of modernity and progress. The media is working overtime to create a uniform culture, based on consumerism. We are running after a mirage called comfortable life, which have names like secure life, healthy life, unbiased life. The ancient Arya values like brotherhood, selflessness, loyalty to the husband etc have become outdated, and self-centeredness is replacing them. We care for "my self", "my love", "my opinion", "my freedom", "my money". Family values are disintegrating. In crucial times like this, Ramayana can be our excellent guide. It acquaints us with the basic tenets of Arya culture, and finally explains now to achieve Moksa through asceticism. For Personal & Private Use Only

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This book also guides us to take proper decision in the hour of crisis. Everything like conversations, actions, inactions and reactions pauses in this greatest book and help us in our spiritual elavation. Weapons, missiles aircrafts, spacecrafts and architecture that are mentioned in Ramayana, speak of their civilization. A special missile gifted to the King Madhu by Camarendra had a range of thirteen thousand kilometers. It could cover this distance, hit the target, and return into the hands of its owner. This might have been the base for the modern scientists, in the invention of missiles and many more. The study of Ramayana would help us to cope up our personal tensions. Though Rama was tormented by Sita's separation, he helps Jatayu, Vajrakarna and Sugriva. Today when all our personal and social relations are gradually loosing their meaning and value, only Ramayana could give it a new meaning and purpose. The personal, social, political and religious references in Ramayana are eternal and can be applied to any situation at any time. Savage barbarians attacked India and demolished the temples and plundered the palaces. They used co-ercion to propogate their religious ideology, but they could not damage our greatest heritage of all times, i.e. Ramayana. No amount of their torture and cruel laws reduced the reverence that we have for it. For, it is inter woven in every fibre of our being and it flows in our blood. Every version of Ramayana is in some way different than the other versions because every writer has used his genius to make it dramatic and interesting. We must not really search for the discrepancies and difference in details, but concentrate on the contents. For example, one writer says that Sita had seen white flowers in the Asokavana at Lanka while others said that the flowers were actually red. We can have aimless and endless debates on this topic and yet would not reach any conclusion. What we must remember is that though Asokavana was one of the best gardens in Lanka, Sitaji could not enjoy its beauty for she perpetually thought of Rama. It is quite feasible that due to constant weeping, her eyes must have turned red, and those white flowers appeared red to her. Instead of resorting to fruitless discussion, we must try and understand the true essence of the story. In the same way, while the Valamiki Ramayana mentions that Sri Rama was married to Sita and had only one wife, he had no other woman in his life. Uttarapuran, Mahapuran and Paumacariyam mentions that he practiced polygamy. Instead of creating rifts over how many women Rama really married, we should talk about his valour, loyalty and other positive traits. Some believe that Hanumana was unmarried. Some say that he was married. What we must remember is his loyalty towards Rama, his strong mind and gentle nature and the enormous physical strength. Valamiki Ramayana states that Rama had dark complexion while Laksmana was fair. Uttarapuran mentions that Laksmana was dark and Rama was fair. We must forget the colour of their complexion and remember the love that they had for one another and their valour. Some say that Rama was born with supernatural powers and some say that he acquired them after the Diksa. Kavi Kalidasa mentions that the rulers belonging to dynasty of Surya, displayed the traits of ascetics in the advanced age. Whether they had the traits of ascetics or whether they were actually ascetics is really insignificant. Some scholars believe that Rama was born about 5,000 to 6,000 years ago. Some believe that he was born about 11,75,000 years ago. It is quite feasible that his enchanting drama is unfolded again and again after a specified time gap and with minor Jain Educatchanges. For Personal & Private Use Only

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The Mahabharata, belonging to the followers of Vedic tradition, depicts the last moments in the life of Karna, the unsung hero of Mahabharata. Badly wounded by Arjuna's arrow, he was wriggling in pain. Sri Krsna appeared before him disguised as a brahmin and demanded alms. The generous Karna did not have anything that he could give to the brahmin. With a sharp stone, he began to knock down his golden teeth. Pleased with his conviction, Krsna stopped him and appeared in his original form. He asked Karna to ask for a boon. Karna requested him to perform his funeral rites on a virgin land, unexplored by any human being. After an extensive search, Krsna found a summit of a mountain in the mid ocean, which he thought would be an unexplored land. He reached there and prepared a funeral pyre. When he was about to lay the mortal remains of Karna on the fire, he heard a resonant voice recite this verse from the lofty skies. 'Hundreds of Dronacaryas have been cremated here, three hundred Pandavas began their last journey from here. Thousands of Duryodhanas were brought here for their last rites and innumerable Karna's have been brought here for their eternal repose. This proves that since the time immemorable, Mahabharata has been unfolded on the earth many a times. In the same way, Ramayana too may have repeated itself many times. We must remember the noblest traits of the descendants of Surya dynasty and try to inculcate them in us. Jain monks and nuns hold Sita in such a high esteem that when they abandon the sleep in the early morning, they do not even walk a hundred steps, until they remember sati Sita. Sita may not be present on this planet right now, but she would remain immortal in the hearts of every Indian. We must remember Ramayana and endeavour to enrich our lives through it. In conclusion, it can be said that, in the beginning, Ramayana preaches us our duties towards parents, siblings, spouse, in laws, offsprings and friends, and finally leads us to the abstract and the loftiest concepts like Samyakdarsana, Desavirati, Sarvavirati and finally Moksa. The plot of Ramayana reveals these ideals step by step. It is said that Ramayana is a treasure trove of detachment and diksa. The missive from his friend, inspires Dasaratha's father Anaranya, to renounce the world. On seeing the frail and aged chamberlain, Dasaratha remembers the ephemeral nature of the world. Laksmana's death leads Lava, Kusa and Rama to ascetic life. Ravana's death leads Mandodari, Kumbhakarna and Indrajit to the path of salvation. The setting sun brings about a radical change in heart of Hanumana. These and many other Diksa's proclaim the ultimate purpose of life in a clear voice. There are four TEDA kinds of purusarthas i.e. efforts in life. They are Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksa. Artha i.e. money and Kama i.e. fulfillment of carnal desires are purusarthas for namesake and they generally create an havoc and compel a soul to reap harvest of karmas birth after birth. Moksa is the true purusartha and Dharma is a mean to achieve it. Retrospection of Ramayana would reveal that most of the characters in it have laid emphasis on Moksa purusartha. May the reading of Ramayana inspire you to the purushartha called Moksa and finally lead you to your goal. If I have written anything against the dharmasastra i.e. holy scripts in this book, then Micchami Dukkadam - forgive me. For Personal & Private Use Only - Gunaratnasuri.ibrary.org

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ILLUSTRATED Jain Ramayana Index King Anaranya's Moksa ... 1 Naradji's concern for his co-religionists ... 5 The coronation ceremony of infant Dasaratha ... 3 * Bibhisana's wrath ... 7 Sita's birth-Bhamandala abduction ... 15 Svayamvara of Kaikeyi ... 8 King Janaka's worry ... 17 Sita's Svayamvara ... 22 King Janaka's. abduction ... 19 Santi Snatra mahotsava in Ayodhya ... 24 Dasaratha grants Kaikeyi a boon ... 31 Kaikeyi repentscoronation of Bharata ... 38 18 Diety Goshirna serves Rama ... 42 Rama, Laksmana and Sita leave for the woods ... 34 Courteous Rama, Laksmana and Sita in Avanti ... 41 Rama meets Jatayu ... 45 For Personal & Private Use

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Imposter at Kishkindha ... 54 2 Hanumana meets Sita ... 57 Sita abduction ... 46 The war begins... 66 * * Laksamana's duel with Ravana... 69 Laksamana wounded ... 67 Rama enters Lanka ... 75 Bharata and Kaikeyi embrace ascetic life ... 80 Sita at Pundarikapur ... 87 Kumbhakarana becomes an ascetic ... 74 Coronation of Laksmana, Sita abandoned ... 81 Rama repents ... 88 30 Hanumana on the path of salvation and Laksmana's death ... 100 Lava and Kusa meet Rama ... 89 Sita's Ordeal ... 95 Rama moves through the forest with the corpse of Laksmana ... 105 Rama attains salvation ... 107 The future births of Laksmana, Sita and Ravana... 110 For Personal & Private Use Only

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INDEX OF APPENDIXES 1) The Foundation of Raksasa Vamsa 112 2) Previous births of Candragati, Bhamandala 113 3) Previous births of Janaka, Dasaratha and Satyabhuti Muni 114 4) Previous births of Jatayu. 115 5) The foundation of Vanara Vamsa 116 6) Previous births of Meghavahana, Indrajit and Mandodari 117 7) The relation between Bharata and the elephant Bhuvanalankara 118 8) Previous births of Rama, Laksmana, Visalya, Bibhisana, Ravana, Sugriva and Sita 120 9) Past births of Lava and Kusa 122 * DIACRITERIA MARKS Before reading this book. please comprehend diacriteria marks used for proper nouns etc. English words showing the pronounciation of proper nouns etc. used with diacritical marks. English alphabet with diacritical mark English words English words with diacriteria mark Proper nouns etc. used in this book far far police police rule rule rid Fat WONDOOMOO CU - 13.CO' CSO 6C0E ring touch lunch put thunder wood adhesive hunt Tashkend shame shut damsel rd ring touc lunch put thunder wood adhesive hunt Taskend same sut damsel Sumitra Sita Kulabhusana rsabha Lanka Candragati Kancuki Jatayu Atthama Dandakaranya Vaitadhya Anaranya Bharata Dasaratha Bibhisana svayamvara. www.ainelibrary For Personal * We are grateful to Sanskrta-English dictionary of oxford for diacriteria marks.

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King Anaranya's Moksa The first Tirthankara Lord Rsabhadeva laid the constantly aware that kingdom is nothing but a road very foundation of the social, cultural and religious to hell and hence rule until appropriate situation does aspects of human life. His virtuous son Bharata was not rise for renunciation a cakravarti - sovereign king. He had many illustri King Anaranya and King Sahasramsu of ous sons; one amongst them was Adityayasa, the Mahismati were good friends, life prospers on allifounder of Surya dynasty. Many dignified kings were ance with a good friend. The characteristic of a good born in his lineage. During the regime of twentieth friend is his sincere friendship and geniality. He does tirthankara, Munisuvrata svami, a very considerate not desert his friendship even during ardous times. king, Anaranya, ruled the kingdom of Ayodhya. He Friends who praise on the face but are back stabbers granted asylum to several kings and also helped his are fit to be forsaken like a bowl of poisoned milk. A loved ones to be debt free. He fathered two sons good friend always inspires to lift oneself spiritually. namely, Anantaratha and Dasaratha, through his con Both the kings, Anaranya and Sahasramsu shared prosort Prthvidevi. found friendship. That was why one day both vowed As a fact, it is too ardous to adhere self duties to renounce together in life. Once, there was a war as a king. Generally, unrestrained power and author- between King Sahasramsu and Ravana, the king of ity makes a person immensely arrogant and ego- Raksasa dynasty, wherein King Sahasramiu was decentric. Such a ruler unleashes a reign of terror on feated. At that moment, his father Muni Satabahu, who his poor subjects. A humble king without arrogance had renounced the world earlier, arrived. King abhors sins and unjust, and values piousness and Sahasramsu accepted Diksa - renouncement under religion, the cause of infinite exultation. Rulers re- his aegis. He sent the news of his becoming a saint pulsive of their children like subjects not only under- to his friend through a messenger. mine human values but also indent the dignity of Ksatriya's. However, such kings can alleviate the plight of their subjects by abandoning their gratuitous arrogance. The cause of sorrow is sin and adharma-unjust act, while that of joy being virtuous acts, piousness and religion - the cause of Moksa. Rulers considering the power and kingdom as ephemeral and transitory, yearn asceticism by renouncing their kingdom. They are PB.50 King Sahasransu's messenger near King Anaranyawjainelibrary.org

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Having reached the royal court, the messenger offered obeisance to the emperor and spoke deferentially, "O Mighty King, your bosom friend and my lord emperor Sahasramsu has accepted the vows of initiation, in order to put an end to all internal and external conflicts. He desires that I convey this news to you in order to refresh your memory, so that you would remember our mutual decision of embracing initiation together." The emperor thought "Now, that my friend has renounced the world, I too should follow his foot steps and make my existence meaningful." He immediately sent for his family members and expressed his desire to accept the diksa (initiation). The young crown prince, Anantaratha, having realised the meaningless vanity of the material world, decided to follow his father on the path of salvation. 922* BO DO DILIP SON 10-99 The coronation ceremony of infant Dasaratha Emperor Anaranya handed over the crown to infant Dasaratha, who was barely a They might call this escapism, but anyone month old and accepted the Diksa along with who is acquainted with the theory of karma will laud his elder son in the presence of Abhayasena the decision of the king. Everyone is born with an Muni. This action of the king might make many invisible bundle of karmas. The karmas are the remodern readers raise their eyebrows and won sult of our good and evil actions of the previous lives. der whether the king was justified in shunning These karmas decide our destiny in this life. Our away the multiple responsibilities and becom good and evil deeds in this life are added to the exing a monk. For Personal & Private Use Only

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and Masaksamana (2, 3 and 30 days fast continuously) and thus reduced his karmas to ashes. His soul gradually became purer and purer. Finally, he ended all his ghati karmas and acquired the Kevalagyana (Omniscience). The young sage Anantaratha too followed his father's foot prints and made tremendous progress in the spiritual field. isting karmas. The good deeds reduce the weight of this bundle and evil deeds makes it heavier. The cycle of birth, death and rebirth goes on and on. It just keeps adding to our karmas. A seeker who desires to break this bondage, embraces ascetic life and thus escapes from this vicious circle. Very few virtuous souls realize the meaninglessness of life and a fewer people endeavour to escape from this eternal slavery of karma. Therefore, one must not hesitate while accepting diksa. Many infants lose their parents at a very tender age. Don't they grow up after this cruel blow of destiny ? They do grow up and live a normal life. Infant Dasaratha too grew up into a very fine youth. The most surprising thing however is, there wasn't any internal or external revolt while the child king ruled. King Dasaratha was a noble soul. As a result of his virtuous deeds, he acquired traits like unparallel valour, courage and presence of mind. There was not even a single instance of internal or external revolt against this child king. Inspite of enjoying the supreme authority, King Dasaratha was compassionate towards the poor and downtrodden people. No one who came to him to seek alms ever returned empty handed. Like the eleventh Kalpavrksa-a wish fulfilling tree, he spread happiness and content everywhere. He followed his duties as a ruler and a spiritual seeker diligently and maintained a perfect balance between the two. Young rulers often forget their duties in the ratrace for power. Their crooked actions and manipulations lead to the total destruction of body and soul. Such people live a pitiable life on the earth and reach the lowest and the darkest realms after their death. The action of King Anaranya proves that our ancient rulers were never attached to the throne. They considered administration to be their divine obligation and therefore they never hesitated when it was time to vacate the throne. The message from Muni Sahasramsu inspired King Anaranya to give up the throne and seek the salavtion with his son. He soon forgot the pleasures and luxuries of the palace and soon became indifferent towards his corporal self. He practiced rigorous fasts like Chatta, Aththama King Dasaratha marries On reaching puberty; King Dasaratha tied nup- manner, a man enjoys Kama, and as a seeker, he tial knots with three young princesses who had im- begins his journey towards Moksa, the final stage peccable family backgrounds. His first consort was that brings the rotating wheel of life and death to a Aparajita alias Kausalya. She was the progeny of King standstill. The young, handsome and energetic Sukosala, the ruler of Darbhasthalanagara and Queen Dasaratha never neglected his duties and obligations Amrtaprabha. The second was Sumitra, offspring of while enjoying his marital life. The contemporary man King Subandhutilaka of Kamalasamkula and Queen is a slave of the sensual pleasures. He conviniently Mitradevi, the third was Suprabha, the daughter of forgets the duties and obligations connected with the emperor of Rathanupura. matrimony and persues the sensual pleasures re lentlessly. Thus, he not only forgets the Dharma but Inspite of marrying three most beautiful also becomes it's bitter foe. Samyakdrsti persons women, King Dasaratha never ignored his duties as maintain a proper equilibrium in any situation and aca king and as a soul, desirous of liberation. Our In cepts the life as it comes. He is aware that certain dian sages have prescribed four essentials for a man deeds in his previous life make him enjoy the senviz. Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksa. The utter most sual pleasures, but he makes sure that this does essential is Moksa itself and Dharma is it's cause. not in anyway harm the first two of his duties i.e. The other two Artha and Kama are essentials of name dharma and moksa. Those who forget dharma and sake, but inviting disaster's in the real sense. Through moksa, and only run away after the ephimeral pleasdaily worship, penance and service of ascetics, a ures, are universally hated while they are alive and man acquires Dharma. Through persistant hardwork reach the lowest depths of the hell after they die. and perseverance a man acquires Artha. Through The Samyakdrsti souls may not altogether sacrifice enjoying the corporal pleasures in a right and ethical or Personal & Private Use Only

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the corporal pleasures but definately enjoy them within limits. Therefore, after death they move onto upper realms and keep on progressing till they achieve complete liberation. Ravana, the demonic king was born into the Raksasa race. He was also called Prativasudeva. His courtiers excelled in different branches of knowledge. One of his courtiers could foresee the future. Once. Ravana called him out of curiosity and said, "One day or the other all beings in this universe are bound to die. The dieties who reside in the celestial abodes are called immortals - Amara, but they too have a prescribed life span. They too are conquered by the death when this span is over. All moving and nonmoving beings are bound to diminish. It is imperative that everyone has to die one day. Though death is a non-voluntary action, rebirth is completely a voluntary action. Death is inevitable but rebirth is not inevitable. A person through his deeds can escape from the vicious circle of life and death and seek salvation. Inspite of my boundless power, I too cannot evade the death. Therefore, I would like to know how would I die." The wise seer answered, "The future generation of King Dasaratha and King Janaka will be the cause of your death." EX Bibhisana's pledge in the king's court When Ravana's sibling Bibhisana heard this, his wrath knew no bounds. Like an errupting volcano, he said, "O wise seer, your utterances are usually the very words of destiny; but this time I will prove you wrong; for I am going to assasinate both Dasaratha and Janaka before their offsprings are born. The prenatural death of both rulers would ensure that there will not be a future generation left who would be the cause of my worthy brother's death. O great seer, your oracles are always true, but this time I, the mighty Bibhisana, will change the destiny" Ravana feared death like anyother mortal. He therefore permitted Bibhisana to carry out his plan. Sage Naradaji, the wandering mendicant, was a witness to this drama in the court of Ravana. He, at once left to inform king Dasaratha about what had transpired in the court of the raksasa king Ravana. EPILIPS 190 fi For the foundation of Raksasa Race refer Appendix-1 Sain Edison Inter For Palm & Private Use

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Naradajis concern for his co-religionists Naradaji, an ardent follower of Jainism, loved all his co-religionists more than himself. Therefore, he straightaway reached Ayodhya. On seeing him, the king rose in respect and having seated him with honour, Dasaratha enquired with due reverence, "O great sage, where have you come from ? what is the purpose of your visit? you look worried. Kindly tell me everything." The divine mendicant replied, "O mighty king, I have been to the Pundarikini nagari that surpasses the celestial world in granduer, to witness the Diksa ceremony of Sri Simamdharasvami. From there, I reached the topmost summits of the mountain Meru and offered my humble salutations to the great Tirthankaras. Then I reached Lanka and after paying obeisance to Lord Sri Santinatha, I reached the court of the raksasa king, Ravana. A seer in his court prophesied that your son, and King Janaka's daughter will be the cause of Ravana's death. On hearing this, Bibhisana rose, and shivering with anger, took a pledge that he would not rest until he killed both you and Janaka. I am here to inform you about this. Kindly stay alert, take care of yourself; and now allow me to depart, so that I can reach Mithila and make emperor Janaka alert." With these words, he immediately left for Mithila and gave Janaka the hor- rifying news. The divine sage Narada held dharma and a pious man in high esteem. His attachment to the noble and pious people was so intense that he sacrificed his own interests in order to help a fellowmen. "Service to co-fellows" was his motto and topmost priority. On the other hand, it can be argued that the virtue of both Dasaratha and Janaka was so great, that it brought sage Narada to the court of Ravana; and they learnt about the malicious intentions of Bibhisana in time. This is how the divine machinery works. On one hand, those who excel in acquiring the worst of negative virtues design vicious plans that do not serve any purpose, except adding to the burden of their karmas. The lofty virtuous souls on the other hand, silently devastate these plans. The sage, Narada, could have put the responsibility of passing over the message to Janaka on the shoulders of King Dasaratha, but he considered service to his brothers in faith as true worship, and therefore he left at once for Mithila and personally handed over the news to King Janaka. King Dasaratha and Janaka's retirement to the forest. Educabado ele

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King Dasaratha summoned his council of ministers to discuss the grave predicament. After weighing the pros and cons of the situation, they reached a conclusion. They advised that it was imperative that both King Dasaratha and Janaka should handover the burden of administration to the learned council of ministers, and leave their empire at once. They should retire to some forest, disguised as ascetics and return when the circumstances were favourable. The demonic clan excelled not only in warfare but also in magic and sorcery, it would be perilous for both the kings to stay in the palace. Advised thus, both the kings donned the saffron robes of ascetic order and left for the forest. The news of their departure was kept a secret. Then, the ministers ordered the sculptors to prepare effigies of both the kings. The effigies that were prepared painstakingly looked so authentic that no one would know that they were unreal. Aspects like the colour and texture of hair, the toning and colour of the skin, the height, and other proportions, the regal attire and finery were studied in detail by the artists before preparing the dummies. Both the effigies were placed on the royal couches. Then the ministers heaved a breath of relief. As long as the virtue of soul is intact, the greatest troubles cannot ruffle him. Dasaratha was still a baby when he was coronated, but his virtue was so great that no one dared to attack him, but when his virtue was eclipsed by sins, the same Dasaratha and Janaka were compelled to flee from their luxurious abodes and live the austere life of ascetics. This is the power of our merits and demerits ! Our merits lead us to the path of elation and our demerits lead us to the road of destruction. When our sins become mightier than virtues, we are afflicted with disasters, emotional upheavel and conflicts, both external and internal. King Subhuma was a cakravarti, sixteen thousand celestial beings bowed down to him in servitude and yet his sins compelled him to die by drowning. King Munja was compelled to discard his regalia and beg for alms, by his sins. Now it was a time for both Dasaratha and Janaka to reap the harvest of their sins. They wandered from jungle to jungle. The news of their departure was kept a closely guarded secret by the council of the learned ministers. No one, not even the queen's knew this reality. Two Kings- both noble, both having impeccable background and sound knowledge, left their royal power and embraced a simple life of mendicants. If it is considered rightful to abandon ones kingdom to elude one death then why isn't it fair for the enlightened souls to forsake the whole world, viewing the infinite cycle of birth and death. They might enjoy the wealth, live a comfortable life and yet they do not forget the death even for a moment. Thus, gaining an opportunity they renounce the world and conquer death. For Personal & Private Use Only Hovhan

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Bibhisana's Wrath Beheading of Dasaratha's effigy by Bibhisana Alert Bibhisana, lurking near the palace of Dasaratha; one night stealthily entered the royal sleeping chamber and noticed the reposing effigy. He pulled out his scimitar and with a mighty stroke beheaded the effigy. He was so overpowered by the love for Ravana that somehow he gathered the courage to enter the sleeping chamber silently, but after strucking the effigy, he was overwhelmed by terror. He did not wait there even for a moment and check whether he had actually beheaded the king or the effigy. The effigy was hollow within and filled with the liquid lac. When Bibhisana beheaded the effigy, his scimitar dripped in the liquid lac that resembled blood. He thought his task was accomplished, and was overjoyed. He decided to leave for Lanka at once. The ministers rushed to the sleeping chamber followed by Kausalya and other queens. They wept and rebuked the cruel destiny. Soon the news of the assasination of king spread like forest fire. The subjects wept loudly. The commanders and vassals hurried to the palace. The funeral rites were performed and the effigy was consigned to the fire. The ministers were overjoyed, yet maintained their mournful looks and made sure that no one learnt the secret. Bibhisana thought that the death of Dasaratha brought an end to his dynasty; no matter what happened, there would not be a child birth in the Surya dynasty. Janaka's daughter alone cannot cause trouble to Ravana. In such contingencies, it would be futile to sneak into the palace of Mithila and risk the life. He therefore decided to return to Lanka. Though both, King Dasaratha and Janaka had donned the robes of ascetic and wandered in jungle, they cannot be called true sages. They had donned the PILIP SONI Jain Education For Personal & Private Use Only

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saffron robes to elude the death, they were not actually fedup with the palace and its comforts. They were longing to return to their abodes to regain their crowns and scepters. They were therefore not ascetics in the truest sense of the term. An ailing person is often advised to consume only plain water of green grams, but this does not mean that he is fasting or penancing. Likewise, a wealthy man who walks five kilometeres either to save money or keep himself fit, cannot be called a yogi, for his intension is not to undergo 'Penance that induces pain to the body. Though apparently, both Dasaratha and Janaka looked like yogis, heart in heart they longed for power and grandeur. Svayasvara of Kaikeyi Moving through the forests, King Dasaratha and Janaka reached Uttarapatha. There, they learnt that the Svayamvara of Princess Kaikeyi was being organised by her parents King Subhamati and Queen Prthvisri of Kautukamangala nagara. The young princess, Kaikeyi, was not only ravishingly beautiful but also an expert and exponent in fine arts. Svayamvara of Kaikeyi "Svayamvara" was a very common practice amongst the blue blooded nobles in ancient India. The eligible bachelors from the surrounding states were invited for the svayamvara; the bride to be would then select the man of her liking and offer the garland to him. Sometimes, the invited princes were asked to perform a difficult feat; and the winner would marry the princess. A huge pandal was erected especially for Princess Kaikeyi's svayamvara. Reputed rulers like the emperor Harivahana and many other handsome and eligible youth were invited for the svayamvara. Since, no one identified King Dasaratha and Janaka because of their disguise, they were made to sit in the last row. Bedecked in the finest jewellery and bridal brocade, Princess Kaikeyi entered the pandal. She carried a garland in her dainty hands and was accompanied by a maid. Then began the quest for the prospective bridegroom. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Walking demurly, Kaikeyi would stand infront of every seat. The maid would then introduce the prince seated there, in most ornate language. Kaikeyi would then cast a side glance at the prospective bridegroom. Enticed and enamoured by her beauty and manners, the prince would think, "Am I going to be the luckiest man today? Will this young princess accept me as her future life partner and add a new meaning to my life? But I am not the only one here! there are many others ... and some are even much better than what I am ! everyone is desirous of marrying her but whom would she select ? Am I the lucky one destined to be her husband or is there someone else?"When Kaikeyi awaited near a prince, his heart would flutter and sway in glee; but when she ignored 9 him and walked ahead, his heart would be filled with disdain and gloom. Thus, immersing innumerable hearts in the ocean of gloom, Kaikeyi reached the last row where Dasaratha was seated. When she glanced at the disguised king, Cupid struck her heart. She was enmoured by his broad forehead, clear eyes that resembled the petals of a lotuslily. Muscular and proportionate body that was the epitome of manliness. Without thinking for a moment, the young princess offered the garland to the young ascetic. Emperor Harivahana and many other nobles were enraged at the rash action of the young princess. Thousands of young, handsome, strong and noble princes were gathered there, yet the princess rejected all of them and selected an ordinary ascetic of dubious origin as her life partner. They thought that it was a preplanned insult. Really speaking, their thinking was wrong, for, a princess has a freedom of choosing any man of her own liking and her decision is final. No questions are asked to her and no coercion is made, but when a soul is blinded by fury, it forgets everything and indulges into the meanest actions. For Personal & Private Use Only

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SAU Charioteer Kaikeyi The pandal now turned into a battlefield. Emperor Harivahana and thousands of other princes who were nurturing a dream of marrying Kaikeyi were wrath, when they saw their dreams shattering. They decided to burry their differances and attack the strange ascetic in unison. Kaikeyi volunteered to be Dasaratha's charioteer. Fearless Dasaratha mounted the chariot and began to shower arrows at his enemies. It is said that a brave man, though all by himself, is like the sun, who inspite of being alone, fills the whole world with bright light. All alone the sun conquers innumerable stars and planets. Dasaratha's chariot moved faster than wind. The brave adversaries of Dasaratha began to fall one after another. Like Sakrendrathe emperor of celestial beings fighting the demonic forces, or like Mrgendra, the emperor of jungle (lion) striking terror among the herds of deer, Dasaratha vanquished the foes. Finally, those who had decided to teach the strange ascetic a lesson, decided to prostrate themselves at his feet. The noble Dasaratha welcomed them with open arms. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Boon to Kaikeyi The festivities began. In an elaborated marriage ceremony, King Subhamati handed over his daughter to King Dasaratha. Dasaratha told his demure bride, "Devi, you have made this victory possible ! Kindly ask me for any boon. I am obliged to fulfill it." Kaikeyi replied. "I would not demand any boon now. However, keep it as a reserve.. I shall ask you to fulfill it, sometime in the future." Dasaratha, with his valour, defeated innumerable nobles who were gathered for the svayamvara. They now became his vassals. With his new army, Dasaratha moved towards Rajagrhi. He then vanquished the emperor of Magadha and established his stay over Rajagrhi. Then he dispatched his envoy at Ayodhya and asked his three queens to join him at Rajagrhi. When the queens received this news, they were astonished, and when they got over the initial shock, their hearts rejoiced. They rushed towards Rajagrhi to meet their beloved husband. Though Dasaratha was too eager to return to Ayodhya, he decided to postpone his return journey, for, the shadow of Ravana was still hovering over Ayodhya. DOWODU VVUU OVOM For Personal & Private Use Only www.ainelibrary.org

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Four dreams of Kausalya la PAHAT Jain Education international & Private Use Only

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Seven dreams of Sumitra PSY cation Interior of Personal & Private Use Only

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14 Four dreams of Kausalya and Seven dreams of Sumitra While Dasaratha and his queens were living joyfully at Rajagrhi, a noble soul from the fifth celestial world descended the word of Queen Kausalya in the last hours of night, she saw an elephant, a lion, a moon and a sun, in a dream. When she informed Dasaratha about the dream, he was overjoyed. He told Kausalya, "Devi ! a women who sees these four auspicious signs delivers Baladeva, the best amongst men. Your virtues in the past reincarnations have made this thing possible." Kausalya too was overjoyed. Then onwards, she remained very alert for the wellbeing of her baby. This time there was greater celebration and revelry. King Dasaratha organised Snatra-mahotsava, and eight types of pujas in the abodes of Lord Arihanta. The prisoners were released from jails. After nine months she delivered a son with all the favourable marks, resembling a white lotus in complexion. The king rejoiced exceedingly at the sight of his first son, like the ocean, at the sight of the full moon. The baby was named Padma which means a lotus. Later on he became famous as the most illustrious Rama. The overjoyed Dasaratha generously gave alms to the poor and received their blessings. The children began to grow up like a growing moon. Initially, the children slept most of the time but as they grew up, they won every heart with their innocence and impish pranks. Their flawless complexion, radiant faces, curly hair had a magnetic appeal. The children were always found playing with one vassal or the other. Blessed indeed were the parents and everyone else who played with these children, for they weren't ordinary children. They were the souls who were to walk on the path of emancipation. Probably, joy is the only thing in the world which increases thousand times when it is shared. The citizens of Rajagrhi broke into spontaneous revelry. They began to dance, sing and play melodies. They sprinkled water mixed with saffron, musk and sandalwood paste on each other. They distributed sweets. Every home was decorated so beautifully that soon Rajagrhi surpassed the divine cities Alkapuri and Amravati in granduer. The inhabitants of these cities felt pangs of jealousy, but they too overcame it and began festive in their own domains. Infant Rama had the soothing fair complexion like a moon. After sometime, the soul of a affluent diety left his abode and descended the womb of Sumitra. She saw an elephant a lion, sun, moon, fire, Laksmi and ocean in a dream. When she asked the interpretation of this dream to her husband, Emperor Dasaratha, he was elated. He said, "blessed indeeded is your womb, for, you are about to conceive a son, who would be the master of three great lands. He would be a vasudeva." When Sumitra heard this, she was overjoyed. Gradually, the children reached teenage. They excelled in different branches of education and mastered various arts. The lads, through the virtue accumulated in their former births, mastered the various arts and sciences. The tutors were just a medium for imparting the knowledge. When they crossed their teens, they became so vigorous that with one mighty blow could turn a mountain into a pile of dust. Sometimes purely out of mischief, they would pluck the strings of their bows, which produced such a resonant sound that the hearts of the people struck with terror. King Dasaratha was so much influenced by their muscle power and archery that he would very often think, "My young sons are capable of defeating both dieties and demons. Ravana too will be vanquished if he dares to attack me. Its now time to return to Ayodhya." He finally returned to his very own Ayodhya. The joy of his subjects knew no bounds; when they saw their beloved king and his family. They were especially happy when they saw young Rama and Laksmana. This is In the due course, she too delivered a baby boy having a bluish complexion. He was named Narayana, but later he became famous as Laksmana. For Personal & Private Use Only

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the strange cosmic game, perpetually going on in the world. It is called the game of karmas. The inauspicious karmas bring in sorrow and the auspicious karmas bring in joy. The karmas forced Dasaratha to wander as a mendicant and reinstated him on the throne of Ayodhya. At Ayodhya, Kaikeyi witnessed fortunate symbols in a dream before delivering a son. The son was named Bharata. Queen Suprabha, too delivered a healthy baby. It was propherised that this babyboy would annihilate legions of enemies. He therefore was named Satrughna. Sita's Birth - Bhamandala's abduction Sita's Birth and abduction of Bhamandala Emperor Janaka too returned to his own kingdom and re-established his sway. As the days passed, the emperess Videha conceived twins. While the twins were still in the womb, Pingala - a diety residing in the first celestial world, learnt through clairvoyance-avadhi-gyana that one amongst the unborn progeny of Videha was his bitter foe in the past life. The diety thought, "My foe is about to be born in a regal family. He will enjoy all the comforts and pomp that the noble birth will bestow upon him. I must abduct him when he is born and kill him.' With this cruel intension, he invisibly came to Mithila and abducted Videha's newly born son. He then flew towards the mountain Vaitadhya. He had decided that once he scaled the greatest heights of the mountain, he would hit the tender infant on some rock and thus take revenge, but the infant was not destined to die, probably because of his own virtue which he had acquired in his former lives. Probably, the virtue acquired by the diety in his former births rekindled his conscience. The feeling of hatred residing in the innermost being of the diety somehow subsided when he reached the summit of the great mountain Vaitadhya. He began to think, "Through my previous good deeds, I have become a diety. But now, commiting infanticide, why should I invite miseries in future births." He then Pille For Personal & Private Use Only

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16 dressed the infant in the finest clothes and jewellery and left him in a garden called Nandana, situated in the southern ranges of the mountain Vaitadhya and soared towards his own celestial abode. Sitting on an ornate chair in the terrace of the royal palace, Emperor Candragati was enjoying the moonlit night and its bewitching beauty. Suddenly, he saw a brilliant light in the southern ranges of the great Vaitadhya mountain. For a moment, he thought that the moon himself had descended on the earth to enjoy a few moments of solitude. He left his palace at once. On reaching the southernmost summit, he noticed a infant swaddled in the celestial finery. The finest jewels on his tiny body were emitting the brilliant light. As destiny would have it; Candragati was the father of that divine infant in his former life. His heart was filled with love when he witnessed the lovely child. He lifted the infant and returning to the palace placed it on the couch of Queen Puspavati. Queen Puspavati had no children and hence considered herself a very unfortunate woman. King Candragati awoke her up and said, "Behold, You have delivered such a handsome young prince." The queen replied, "Through the virtue of my former lives have made me your consort, I have brought you enormous misfortune. I am a barren woman. How can an accursed woman like me ever deliver a handsome baby?" The king narrated his strange experience to the queen and finally told her, "You have neither conceived this baby nor did you carry him in your womb for nine months. You have not suffered the pains of delivery. Yet you have become a mother. Congratulations to you, for you have given a heir to the throne." Early morning, the news of the royal nativity was announced. dampened the hearts of the people at Mithila. Though the emperess had delivered twins; she couldn't even see her new born son. Overcame with grief; she lamented, "God, surely some foe of mine has abducted my baby. Did I, in my former life, deprive some innocent mother of her infant, that I am suffering now? Did I, in my former life, burn some innocent life in the fire of separation ? Am I reaping the harvest my evil actions now ? God! I was blind and you blessed me with eyes, and once again you have deprived me of my sight. My new born baby is like a tender lotuslily. Where could he be? Why is my child suffering on account of my evil deeds ?" The emperor Janaka offered solace to the wounded heart of his consort with words of endearment. He at once dispatched his trusted soldiers in every direction in quest of his son; but after a prolonged search, they all returned, their hearts laden with grief and dispair. Finally, the royal couple accepted the fact that, it was predestined that they would suffer the separation of their son, because of their own actions in the past lives. They named the baby girl Sita. Gradually, the royal couple forgot the pangs of separation, for joys and woes both are transitory in nature. They come and go. A wise person remains unaffected by both and strives for emancipation - for, only emancipation is the source of eternal and endless joy. HOOG Bloc OG GO ON The subjects reacted with a spontaneous revelry. For days, they celebrated the joyful occassion. Diety Pingala had gifted the finest earrings studded with the brightest gems to the new born. Their lusture added to the brilliance of the infant's face; therefore he was named Bhamandala. As a result of his ill-actions in the former lives, the infant was separated from his mother immediately after birth, but as a result of the virtues he acquired in his former lives, he spent his childhood in the palace of King Candragati, that offered him all the comforts in the world. This indeed is the power of Karma - the result of the good and evil actions in previous lives. While the subject of King Candragati revealed with joy, clouds of despair and woes had sa For the past births of Candragati, Pingala Deva and Prince Bhamandala refer Appendix: 2.

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King Janaka's Worry As the days passed, Sita grew up like the growing moon. She was not only endowed with divine beauty, but also with great intelligence and humane nature. She had the lovable restlessness of the holy Gangas, longing for union with her beloved Mahasagara. Her eyes resembled the sporting fishes in a river. Sita was endowed with the regal persona of the goddess Laksmi and the boundless intellect of the goddess Sarasvati. Sita, with her impish pranks, filled the hearts of her parents with enormous joy and with her compassionate nature and virtues, offered a solace to their wounded hearts. Her intellect assured them that she would handle any situation cleverly and overcome the greatest of the predicaments. Yet, at times their hearts were full of anxiety, for, they did not know what the future had in offing for their daughter. Like any other parents they worried, where would they find a suitable match for their lovely princess?. ests and fields, palaces of elite and the shanties of the poor folks. Inspite of his enormous army, Janaka could not control the aggressive barbarians. The barbarians demolished innumerable Jain temples and destroyed the centres of penance. This tormented the heart of the noble king Janaka. It is said that, apart from friends and wellwishers, even the shadow of a man forsakes him in the hour of peril. King Janaka too was undergoing the same experience when he suddenly remembered emperor Dasaratha, his true friend and wellwisher. He immediately dispatched a messenger to Ayodhya to beseech help in the hour of emergency. On reaching the court of Dasaratha, the envoy offered his obeisance. The emperor welcomed him warm heartedly, offered him a seat and asked him the purpose of his arrival. The envoy replied, "O Noble King.. Though my lord Janaka has thousands of kins, friends and wellwishers, they all have deserted him in the hour of peril. You are the only friend capable of helping him. During the sojourn in the forest, a strong bond of friendship has been developed between you two. Together you have shared the moments of joys and woes. My lord Janaka is Once, the land of the noble emperor Janaka was attacked by the semibarbarian king Antaramgatama and his allies. Like deluge, he marched ahead, razing the cities and villages, for Envoy of King Janaka in the court of Dasaratha For Personal & Private Use Only

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18 being tormented by the boundless army of the barbarians, who are plundering the temples of Jinesvara ! O Noble King, You are the worthy descendent of the first Tirthankara Lord Rsabhadeva. A man generally remembers his family deity and friends in the hour of emergency. In you, my master has found a true friend. I therefore beseech you to haste and help him." son. You might probably think that we are too young to tackle the foe, but Sire ! a lion cub, inspite of his tender age, can easily kill a mighty bull.... A tiny cinder of charcoal, in a moment, can turn a mighty forest into ashes, and Sire, we, the noble descendents of Surya, are gifted with two noble traits essential for warrior, valour and kindness, right from our birth. Therefore, do not hesitate in sending us to the battlefield. We shall slay all the barbarians and return victorious." He further said, "Sir, you and my master are inseparable as the body and soul, one meaningless without the another. The semibarbarians that have attacked us are the inhabitants of the land, which is situated between the southern ranges of mount Vaitadhya and the northern ranges of the mount Kailasa. This stripe of land is known as Mayurasala and it is ruled by the cruel barbarian Antarangatama, who hates the regime of Jinesvara. He is joined by many like-minded kings and together they have attacked the Mithilanagari, like a swarn of locusts. They have vandalised the Jain temples and the sacred places. My master's plight at this moment is like that of the great elephant Gajendra, whose foot has been grabbed by a crocodile." The words of the noble Rama shows how young men in ancient India revered their parents. They risked their own lives and endeavoured to save their parents. Today we are living in the age of consumption. No matter what we do, our desires and wants are never satiated. We want to eat nothing but the best, we crave to wear nothing but the best, we aspire for nothing but the best of home. We strive for the best of comforts and luxuries, and while todays' youth is in a frantic race to improve his standard of living, the aging and ailing parents still shoulder the yoke of domestic responsibilities. Having convinced Dasaratha about his own valour, Rama and Laksmana left for Mithila alongwith their army. Mithila was seized by the barbarians. Emperor Janaka was under tremendous stress. When Though Dasaratha was a kind and a gentle soul, the wrath that lay dormant within him was stirred by the words of the envoy. He immediately summoned his army officers. Rama, with folded hands, address thus, "My worthy father, you are indeed a true friend, who never hesitates for a moment while helping a friend in the hour of peril. 1 urge you to grant me and my brothers a permission to teach the barbarians a les PS wer

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the barbarians noticed the army led by young Rama and Laksmana, they attacked it with vengeance. They assumed that they would defeat the young boys within no time and cause a panic among the soldiers. Retreat of the barbarians Rama pulled the string of his bow, and when the enemy heard its reverbrating sound, their hearts were filled with awe and fear. Rama now began to shower arrows on the enemy. The wounded and bleeding barbarians began to beat a hasty retreat. So far, the morale of Janaka's army was very low and they resembled timid rabbits or deers, but, when they witnessed the valour of Rama and Laksmana, they too attacked the enemy like lions. The barbarians knew that if they slayed young princes, they could still win the war. Therefore, they attacked Rama in union, but Rama retaliated so strongly that the scene on the battlefield was changed. The woes turned into joy. When Janaka heard the cries of victory, he could not believe his own ears. The joy of Mithila knew no bounds. Suddenly, the city wore a new festive look. People burst into spontaneous celebration of the victory. Impressed with the valour of Rama, Janaka announced that his young princess Sita would be married to Rama. In Rama, King Janaka found both, a protector of Jain Shrines and an ideal son-in law. Incidentally, we must remember that Rama had gone to Mithila not to marry but to protect the shrines. His devotion to his father made him shoulder such a great task. Rama was a noble soul. As such, he coudn't bear the aggressions and vandalization of the places of worship. He fought to protect and uphold the true dharma. The spirit of valour that Rama exibited at Mithila was so noble and selfless that Emperor Janaka found an ideal match for his daughter in Rama. 8 King Janaka's kidnaping The learned Indian sages and seers always believe that the transitory world is an illusion. It is full of sorrows and worries. A soul, when it assumes a garb known as corporal body, mainly worries about his own existence, life, death, about his self and about others. He worries about his own safety and safety of his beloved people. Only the ascetics and mendicants who renounce the material world are the most carefree people. 19 The world, with its illusive nature, tempts and entices even the most learned. Emperor Janaka was an enlightened soul, yet he was worried for the safety of his kingdom and people and the wellbeing of his daughter Sita. His announcement of Sita's engagement brought a new set of troubles. The news of the engagement suddenly brought Sita in limelight. Everywhere, discussions about her radiating beauty, intelligence and good nature began. When the divine sage Narada heard them, he too was curious to see Sita. The sage Narada is known for his celibacy. His being, his speech and heart bear ample testimony of his virtues and therefore, he is equally honoured at the royal court as well as in the harems. Narada wanted to have a look at Sita, purely out of curiosity. He therefore walked straight into her chamber. Sita so far had only heard about the divine sage, therefore, she was terrified when she saw him in person. His thin body, heavy belly, yellow hair and a long tuft on his head, his scant clothing and dreamy eyes scared Sita to such an extent that she began to shiver and screamed, "O Mother, Please hurry up and save me ! There is a stranger in my chamber." The royal bodyguards, servants, maids, gate-keepers and soldiers ran when they heard her screams. Together, they pounced upon the divine sage. One grabbed his throat and another pulled his tuft. Some began to rain blows on him, some kicked him hard. The sage Narada somehow managed to escape from their clutches and flew towards the summit of mount Vaitadhya. On reaching there, he sighed with relief and began to think of what had transpired. He thought, 'Like a lonely cow surrounded by hungry lions, I was assaulted by the savage servants of Janaka. They attacked me without even ascertaining my identity. Sita is the rootcause of all my troubles and I must take a revenge.' He further thought, 'I shall draw a beautiful picture of Sita on a silken scroll and show it to prince Bhamandala, the worthy son of King Candragati, who rules southern ranges of this mountain. On seeing For Personal & Private Use Only

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20 the ravishing beauty of Sita, his heart will surely fill alike by the residents of three worlds, you showed with a desire to marry her. He will anyhow abduct a painting of a ravishing damsel endowed with her. In that case, she will not marry Rama as beauty and brains to my son Bhamandala. He has berotthed and thus, my bruised pride will get some taken a fancy for her and desires to marry her. Could solace'. you tell us who the beautiful girl is? Which noble family is she from? I beseech you to enlighten me, This is called the irony of karma. The divine so that I can go and meet her parents. The sage sage Narada is lofty soul devoid of any attachment. replied, "Oh noble king Candragati, the ravishing He knows that the world is an illusion and yet when beauty, you are talking about, can surprass the he was humiliated, his wrath knew no bounds. He celesital goddesses and nymphs in was all set to get even with Sita. Not only that, but beauty. No offspring of a man can exhe chalked out a diabolical plan to take revenge. cel Sita in beauty. Infact, she looks thouHis actions in our sacred texts are called "Mohaniya sand times more beautiful than the picKarmas". When these karmas torment a noble soul, ture. For, though I excel in the art of he stoops down to the lowest depths and invites painting, I could not captivate all her curses on himself and brings misery to others. Sita, beauty in this picture. Your son has like any other Aryan women in those days, was mod fallen in love with Sita, the daughter of est and timid. When she saw an absolute stranger King Janaka, whose forefathers ruled in her chamber, her reaction was natural. She never Mithila. I think your son deserves her. wanted to humiliate the divine sage Narada. May I advise you to hurry and meet King Narada drew a lovely picture of Sita on a Janaka without any delay?" silken scroll and presented it to the young prince King Candragati rushed to the Bhamandala. When the prince saw the picture, he chamber of his son and promised, "The was immediately afflicted by the arrows of Cupid. beautiful girl, who has coveted your He lost his composure, apetite and sleep. He would heart, is Sita, the princess of Mithila. I not sleep for a moment. He would not converse with assure you that she alone would be anyone, nor was he bothered about his appearance your wife." and health. The arrows of Cupid are made up of flowers but they harm a man's conscience, constraint and culture. People tormented by love are Then Candgragati called ruled by impulses and indulge into rash and irratio Capalagati, who exceled in magic. He nal actions. They sow in haste and reap the harvest belonged to the family of Vidyadharas. in leisure. When the king Candragati saw the plight The king ordered Capalagati to reach of his son, he was moved and said, "O Bhamandala, Mithila and abduct its king. On reachmy worthy son, what has caused your present state? ing Mithila, Capalagati vidyadhara asIs it some secret sorrow or else you suffering from sumed the form of a fair horse endowed some kind of a malady? Has anyone disobeyed you with auspicious marks. With his beauty, or given you some trouble? Tell me, I shall immedi he succeeded in enticing King Janaka. ately punish the culprit." Bhamandala did not utter a A desire to add this extraordinary horse word, his head was drooped and countenance pale! to his stable, smote Janaka to such an Bhamandala's silence introduces us to yet extent that he forgot his noble upbringanother face of our multidimensional culture. ing and the teachings of his parents and Discusions of love in the presence of elders is not teachers. King Janaka was a learned encouraged in this land of Aryas. This regard for the person and yet his covetiousness elders and gurus is called 'Kulamaryada'. brought him sorrow. Just as the fish and birds, who get entangled in the nets The modern culture and its unlimited per because of their greed for food. Somesonal freedom has infact made us savages and times they lose their life and sometimes slaves of passion. This has brought about a social, they lose their independence. Overpowmoral and spiritual downfall in every walk of life. ered by his desire, King Janaka stealthBhamandala was indeed afflicted by love, but the ily followed the horse and mounted it. love did not make him forget his limits as a son. He At once the horse gallopped and therefore remained silent. Later on, King Candragati reached the sky. He straightaway flew consulted the friends of the young prince and to Rathanupura-nagara, the kingdom of learned the entire account of the picture. Candragati. The royal consort, the King Candragati immediately sent for the young princess and the citizens of sage Narada. He received the sage with due hon- Mithila began to lament when they our and after having paid obeisance, gently enquired learnt this news. in the following words, "O divine Narada - revered For Personal & Private Use Only www.ainelibrary.org Jarn Eucalon intem

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King Candragati received Janaka with warmth. He embraced him and offered him a seat and said, "O Noble king! the best amongst the Ksatriyas!, you are indeed fortunate to have a daughter, who is the epitome of beauty, modesty and intelligence. I have 21 learnt that you have already began a quest for an ideal match for your only daughter. My handsome son Bhamandala has youth, valour and all other excellent traits. I think their betrothal would intensify our friendship. Therefore, I request you to think over my proposal and accept it." King Candragati being kidnaped Janaka replied "Your proposal indeed would bring a tide of joy in any heart. I find no fault with your son, but I have seen the valour of Rama, the descendant of the first Tirthankara in the battlefield. Had it not been for his timely aid, I would have been slain long time back. I have promised Rama that my daughter would marry him. A woman belonging to noble Aryan family is engaged and married only once. In this contingency, I think Sita's betrothal to your son is a remote possibility." The King replied, "O Janaka, we have a bond of mutual friendship and love between us. I wanted to add a new dimension to our friendship. I could have abducted Sita easily, if my son had so desired, but I am a man of ethics and understand your dilema. I have heard of Rama and his unmatched valour and now, I wish that Rama defeats us before marrying Sita. The celestial deities, who from their lofty abodes rule the earth, have gifted me with two bows. Their names are Vajravarta and Arnavavarta respectively. They both are gaurded by dieties. I offer both of these bows to you. If Rama manages to lift and string them, give away Sita to him in marriage, and if he fails, then Sita will marry my son Bhamandala. He thus, somehow succeeded in making Janaka accept his proposal. As Janaka had no choice, he agreed. Then Candragati made arrangements for Janaka to return to Mithila. He followed Janaka alongwith his army and resided on the outskirts of Mithila. Supin Eduals For Pers nal & Private Use Only

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22 On reaching Mithila, king Janaka straightaway headed to the harem and revealed everything that had transpired between him and King Candragati. Queen Videha sobbed, "Alas! the merciless destiny is giving me mighty blows one after another. Years ago my newborn infant was separated from me! and now the illfate is about to befall on my beloved daughter. Oh worthy King, even a poorest man amongst your subjects has freedom to marry his daughter to a man of his choice and look at us! We cannot marry Sita to Rama. If Rama fails to string the bow we will be left with no alternative except complying to the desire of Candragati." King Janaka assured her thus, "Do not worry my worthy consort ! Let us not forget that Rama is the descendent of the first Tirthankara Lord Rsabhadeva. I am sure, he would lift these divine bows like dried creepers and string them. I have seen him in the battlefield. He was moving like a whirlwind slaying the enemies. I am certain that Rama and Rama alone would marry our daughter Sita. Later on, king ordered his artisans to erect a pandal. The pair of bow was placed in the pandal. He also sent his emissaries to the kings and princes in the surrounding areas. They arrived Mithila and were seated in the pandal. Sita's Svayamvara Les GS Bedecked in finest attire and jewellery, Sita entered the pandal of Svayamvara along with her friends and maids and worshiped the auspicious bows. Then, she stood in a special place reserved for her. She was carrying a garland of the choicest flowers. Though her facial expressions exhibited modesty and coyness, she looked a perfect picture of confidence and poise. Bhamandala, who saw Sita for the first time in person was once again smitten by Cupid. He thought, 'How true was the divine saint Narada when he said that words failed to describe her beauty and most gifted hands too cannot capture her beauty in painting. The pratihari-chief gatekeeper announced that the noble youth who would string any one of the bows will incidentally marry Sita. After the announcement, young princes rose and one by one went near the altar, where the bows were placed, but none of them dared to touch the divine bows because they were surrounded by mighty flames and poisonous cobras hissing menacingly. Those desirous of marrying Sita would some how reach near the altar but would get struck by terror when they saw the flickering tongues of fire and the cobras. They would hang their heads in shame and return to their seats. Candragati watched these proceedings disdainfully. He was confident that finally Sita would marry Bhamandala. For Personal & Private Use Only

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O eel Sita Svayamvara Rama arose and began to walk like a lion towards the altar. The hearts of both emperor Janaka and his wife were filled with anxiety. When Rama reached the altar, to everyone's surprise, the flames and the fangs both disappeared. A divine peace and tranquility was experienced by everyone sitting in the pandal. The celestial beings clustered in the different stratas of heaven to watch the scene with great curiosity. Every pair of eyes was glued to the handsome and noble countenance of Rama. He lifted up the bow known as Vajravarta as if it was a toy and placed it erect on a special stand. Then, he bent it like an ordinary cane and put the string on it. He then struck the string. The vibrant twang of the string was clearly heard not only in the pandal but also in the celestial worlds. The joy of Janaka, Videha and Sita knew no bounds. Sita offered the floral garland to Rama. With Rama's consent, Laksmana stepped in the arena. He lifted the bow called Arnavavarta and stringed it. The twang of this bow was so loud that even the Diggajas- the eight elephants believed to lift the corners of the world on their shoulders, trembled with fear. Vidyadhara kings, who had magical powers, were so impressed by Laksmana's display of valour and strength that they offered eighteen young vidyadhara beauties to him. Most of the kings were happy and shared the joy with Janaka but some like King Candragati and Bhamandala were so much overcome by gloom and dispair that they left the pandal at once. Ego and vanity are the root causes of sorrow. King Candragati and Bhamandala were two great egoists who believed that no mortal could lift the divine bows. Therefore, they were sure that they would emerge victorious but Rama and Laksmana shattered their pride and vanity. King Janaka dispatched a formal invitation to Dasaratha. He arrived Mithila with the royal family and a grand wedding was performed, where in Kanakaraja, the younger brother of King Janaka and his consort Suprabha proposed and married their daughter Bhadra to Bharata, the younger brother of Rama, in the same auspicious. After prolonged celebrations, Dasaratha and his relatives left for Ayodhya with friends and new daughters-in-law. The citizens of Ayodhya welcomed them with pomp. The revelry lasted for many days. For Personal & Private Use Only

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santi-snatra Mahotsava in Ayodhya O IN UUTA Jain Educa od private www. bay.com

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26 Santi-snatra On the eighth waxing moon of the auspicious month of Asadha, King Dasaratha organised Astahnika caitya mahotsava with full pomp. Best of the best ingredients for worship were bought from all over and a ritual called Santisnatra was performed. The auspicious water utilised during this ritual is distributed among the faithful devotees. Kancuki, the chamberlain of harem, carried an urn full of this auspicious water and left fo the sanctum of the chief consort Kausalya first. The other maid- servants, then carried the auspicious water to the sanctums of other consorts. It is a common practice to appoint a man of advanced age as a chamberlain. The kancuki of Dasaratha was a frail man afflicted by old age, The others were young maidens. They reached hurryingly and delivered the auspicious water to the remaining consorts. The frail and aged kancuki could not match the ladies in speed and therefore, though he left first, could not reach the sanctum of Kausalya on time. wo DILIP SON Kausalya's attempt to suicide When the chief consort Kausalya, eagerly waiting for the auspicious water, learnt the news that everyone else except her had received the snatrajala, the aucpicious water, she was dejected. She thought, 'Here I am... the chief amongst the royal consorts and yet everyone else gets the auspicious water except myself. How unfortunate I am! It is better to embrace death instead of being subjected to further humiliation. I think death alone will end all my sorrows.' Kausalya's pride was wounded. The frustration and anger subdued her power of reasoning. A wise Indian sage says, "Anger is born out of self love and affects the power of reasoning. This leads to the total defeat of wisdom and conscience, which in turn causes total destruction." For Personal & Private Use Only

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Kausalya was a noble soul but her wounded pride led her to selfpity and finally she decided to commit suicide. Suicide is the last resort of the coward. Killing is a great sin, but it can be atoned, whereas, suicide is the greatest sin which has no atonement. What should have been the ideal course 27 of action for Kausalya? She should have thought, probably my husband must have forgotten to send me the holy water. I must send a maid and procure it myself, but so overcome was she by her wounded pride that she decided to end her life abruptly. Fortunately, Dasaratha reached there on time. He was shocked to see a noose around her neck. King Dasaratha convincing Kausalya E TICO 0000. With great difficulty, he persuaded Kausalya to abandon her plan. He threw aside the noose, gently lifted her, and placed her on a couch and asked, "Who has the audacity to hurt your feelings? Who has inflicted great anguish on you, that lead you to such a rash act. Name the person, and I shall punish him." Kausalya was still awrath. With great difficulty, she spoke in a trembling voice, 'All your consorts received the snatrajala.... all.... but me...." For Personal & Private Use Only 90

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28 See) apa C SS) .dec.ee codecer PILIP SON The kancuki's arrival at the palace Before the king could reply, the aged chamberlain reached the abode of the chief queen. The king took the urn from his hands and sprinkled some water on the head of his seniormost consort and asked the chamberlain, "You were the first to receive the snatrajala. I personally gave you this urn and urged you to hurry up and deliver it to Kausalya first. Why this delay?" The kancuki replied, "Whatever your majesty says is true, I indeed was the first to receive this auspicious urn. It's also true that you ordered me not to tarry and yet I am late, but its not my fault altogether. My advancing age has diminished my strength and ambition. I beseech you majesty to have a close look at me. You will at once know who is the real culprit." For Personal & Private Use Only www.ainelibrary.org

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29 in again, yet the hunger, avarice and greed blindfold a man's conscience. Birth after birth, he relentlessly pursues the pleasures. Poisons destroy only the body when it is consumed but the pleasures destroy the body and soul both, birth after birth. The best remedy to put an end on this is to embrace ascetic life, thus King Dasaratha cultivated the spirit of ascetism. This proves the fact that a virtous person grabs the unpleasant opportunities to atone his karmas. The king had a close look at the chamberlain. The chamberlain, who was once a well built youth, bursting with energy, sharp eyes like an eagle, his body taut, well toned like iron bands... What was left of him now? His head had turned grey, eyes and cheeks were sunk, his lilmbs were trembling, his senses were slowly deteriotating. He was like a fossil, a bag of bones. This is a universal phenomenon. It is indeed so common that most of us just ignore it, but the plight of kancuki compelled the king to think that the soul receives a mortal body. He is born, grows up and finally dies. This is repeated for ages and yet his attachment to senses and sensual pleasures just does not subside. Today this chamberlain is standing here with a trembling body, tomorrow I will take his place. The weakning of senses and strength, the affliction of maladies will weaken me further. I must act to stop this vicious circle. Every moment new souls step on this planet to depart and the old ones depart to step One day, Muni Satyabhuti reached the precints of Ayodhya. He was the master of four knowledges. On learning the news of his arrival, king Dasaratha along with his family, went to meet the sage. Depressed, King Candragati and Prince Bhamandala also reached there. They had returned from the mountain Rathavarta and were on their way to home. Both the kings reached the place where the sage was delivering a sermon. Bhamandala falls unconscious in Muni Satyabhuti's sermon DILIP SONI 1997 DNR For Persone e Use Only

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Bhamandala falls unconscious With his mystical powers, the sage learnt that Bhamandala was frustated because he could not marry Sita. He therefore, in brief, discussed the previous lives of King Candragati and his consort Puspavati. He also described the "previous births of Bhamandala and Sita. He then narrated, how Bhamandala was kidnaped at the moment he was born. When Bhamandala learnt that he was craving to marry his own elder sister, he collapsed. After regaining consciousness, he informed King Candragati that whatever the sage Satyabhuti said was absolute truth. King Candragati immediately dispatched his vidyadharas to Mithila, to return with King Janaka and his consort Videha. Bhamandala bowed down before his elder sister Sita, and apologised. Sita also blessed him. Rama embraced him, and thus the wrong was forgiven and forgotten. When King Janaka and Queen Videha reached Ayodhya, King Candragati told him, how did he find an abandoned baby in the garden on the mount Vaitadhya, how he adopted him and finally declared that Prince Bhamandala was actually the progeny of Janaka and Videha. On learning this, King Janaka and Queen Videha were elated. Her upper cloth was drenched with the milk that began to ooze out of her bosom, when she knew about her son. Bhamandala prostrated at their feet, and they blessed him. King Janaka then declared that he desired to hand over the royal crown and the scepter to the crown prince Bhamandala and embrace ascetic life. Muni Satyabhuti administered the oaths of renouncement to the great King Janaka. OGUCIDODODGO Later on, King Dasaratha requested the sage Satyabhuti to narrate the account of his previous lives. After the sage finished his narration, he once again realised that the world is transitory. Every action of a man adds to the burden of his karmas. Embracing an ascetic life is the only way that will stop the rotation of the wheel of destiny. King Dasaratha too decided to handover his scepter to Rama and become a mendicant. COVO P700000000 #What was the relation between Satyabhuti muni and King Dasaratha in the previous births ? refer Appendix - 3 For Personal & Private Use Only

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11 ** Dasaratha grants Kaikeyi a boon **** 3884453 33 20 228 200 0000 PILIP 96 31 Bharata expresses his desire to embrace an ascetic life: On reaching the palace, King Dasaratha sent for his family members and the assembly of the ministers. He then expressed his desire to become an ascetic. With folded hands, he asked them for their consent, but the wise Bharata intervened by saying, "If you have resolved to renounce this ephemeral world, pray allow me to join you as well; for I shall not be able to endure the pangs of your separation, and I will be exposed to the evil and vile world. I am too eager, to accept the oath of renouncement along with you. By serving you, I shall not only serve my father, but an ascetic as well. This will help me to atone atleast some of my wrong actions of the previous life." For Personal & Private Use Only

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Dasaratha handovers the throne to Bharata Then, he summoned Rama and Laksmana and said," was compelled to fight a large number of Ksatriya warriors when Kaikeyi chose me as her respective bridegroom. I could defeat them all, only because Kaikeyi volunteered to be my charioteer. I had granted a boon to her, which she prefered to keep secure for future. Now, she desires that I offer my crown to Bharata, and thus be free from the debt which I owe her. O Rama! you are my eldest son. You are my heir apparent. Though the crown belongs to you and you alone, my worthy son, I am compelled to usurp your rightful claim and hand it over to Bharata, so that I can take the vows without any hindrance." 32 When Bharata's mother Kaikeyi heard this, she was worried. She thought, 'My husband has already resolved to become an ascetic. If he becomes an ascetic, will not be called the royal consort, nor will I enjoy the power and the privileges. If Bharata becomes a king, there is still hope for me, for I would be addressed as the royal mother and here is my son, all set to shatter my aspirations.' Overpowered by the temptations, she said, "My Lord, everything is possible in this world. The sun may tomorrow rise in the west and set in the east. It might rain in the spring. Everything under the sun may change in due course, except one thing, the promise of a Satyavadi, a man who speaks nothing but truth. My Lord, I believe that you are a man who upholds the truth. Do you remember that you had granted me a boon when you tied nupital knots on being pleased with my charioteership ? You owe me a debt, for I have still not asked you for that boon. The religious law says that a person with a debt cannot renounce the world. I truely desire that there shouldn't be any hindrance in your path to salvation." OVERVIEW HUL HUVREUISIVES 00::0:01 Dasaratha said, "Dear queen! I distinctly remember my promise. Ask me for anything, except changing my decision of renouncing the world." Kaikeyi said, "My Lord, how can I ever ask you to change your decision and compel you to remain in this materialistic world, which is called a massive swamp by the learned. I only request you to hand over the scepter to my son Bharata." Dasaratha relented and said "Bharata is free to inherit my throne." DILIP SONI For Personal & Private Use Only www.anellbrary.org

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He said, "My worthy father, I was the first one, who expressed a desire to be an ascetic. Pray do not impose the kingship on me." Dasaratha said, "Son, Dharma says that one cannot disobey his parents. I had made a promise to your mother, if it remains unfulfilled, it will leave a blemish on my character in the ages to come. Do you want your father to be remembered as a villan and a traitor?" On hearing this, Rama said, "My worthy father, you wish to fulfil my mother's desire and make my brother a king. My brother Bharata is young, but still can surpass any warrior in valour. He is also an expert administrator. I am sure, you are handing over your regalia to a worthy person. Do not ever think that you are violating the command of Dharma, and usurping my rightful claim by doing this. Did you ever notice me craving for the power ? Did you ever notice my irrespect towards you? This crown belongs to you and you alone, and you may hand it over to anyone. I have no desire to sit on the throne, nor do I have a right to disobey you. I am a slave of your slaves. How can I ever disrespect you? You can choose any one as your heir... I have acquired my person by your grace. You have given me the best of everything, taught me the ethics and inculcated moral values in me. You have a full right on my being, my heart and my wealth. May Bharata be coronated, any time you wish. After all, Rama and Bharata are two inseperable entities. The question of my consent therefore does not arise." In order to persuade Bharata, Rama said, "You have been offered the crown so that our father can be free from his debt. You are not craving for the power. You must shoulder the responsibility that our father has entrusted you with." Bharata, with tearful eyes said, "My worthy brother, you are sacrificing your right to the throne to free father off his debt. I know that I am not worthy of the throne. I appreciate your generosity, but I shall never accept your proposal, for it will amount to greed and covetiousness. How can I ever deprive you of your rightful position?" am I not Dasaratha's son and your brother ? no... no.... my coronation is impossible." Can a person of modern age think like Rama? A modern son, placed in a similar situation would not hesitate to defy his father's authority. He may probably deprive his father of everything including the powers, so that he does not face similar problems again in future. Today's unabashed young man would not think twice before dragging his father to a court of law, in order to swallow up his parental property. This is the age of the fifth axis of Avasarpini. One cannot expect anything better from this age. Rama said, "My worthy father, if I stay here any longer, my brother Bharata will never accept the throne. Therefore, allow me to retire from hither. I will stay in the woods for some years like an ascetic. It will compel Bharata to shoulder his responsibilities. You will be free from your debt and thus be able to embrace the vows." This was the devotion and dedication of Sri Rama ! He discarded the crown, pleasures of the palace, power and life, without hesitating for a moment. This generosity and selflessness is the essence of the Indian Culture, When King Dasaratha heard Rama's words that were like a soothing balm to his wounded heart, he was very happy, but Bharata was adamant. He wanted to be an ascetic and didn't crave for power. There are many versions of Ramayana which belong to the faiths other than Jainism. They mention that Kaikeyi had asked for two boons, (1) the coronation of Bharata and (2) expulsion of Rama. For Personal & Private Use Only

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34 Rama, Laksmana and Sita leave Ayodhya After convincing King Dasaratha the urgency live like this?" of his departure, Rama immediately left for the Rama said, "Mother, you belong to the clan of woods. The very idea of being separated from his Ksatriyas.... it is the clan of warriors. You must not worthy son agonised Dasaratha so much that he shed tears like a commoner! Mother, haven't you swooned. When Rama saw this, he wondered, 'I am heard this... when a cub of a lion is fully grown up, leaving this palace that offers every pleasure so that his mother, the lioness, just discards him and lets my father can become an ascetic. He has realised him become an independent survivor in the cruel the ephemeral nature of the material world and yet, world. She never worries about the wellbeing or the the idea of being separated from me affects him so welfare of her young one. I have reached the stage, strongly. My mother is a simple woman, who loves where I can take care of myself. You are a lioness. her son more than anyone in the world. What would Pray do not be a disgrace to your clan, by your timbe her reaction, when she learns about what had idness. If I continue to live here, Bharata will never transpired in the palace.' On reaching Kausalya's accept the royal crown. It is therefore advisable that chamber, he prostrated himself at her feet and said, I leave the palace at once." Though his words were "Mother, now onwards you have one more son be full of love, yet they failed to bring a solace to sides me - Bharata, my younger brother. My worthy Kausalya, but she stopped weeping. Rama then went father has desired to be a pilgrim on the path of to the chambers of mother Sumitra, Suprabha and salvation. It is imperative that he must fulfill all his Kaikeyi and offered his obeisance to them. He fulpromises, and clear all his debts, before he becomes filled all his duties as a son, before he stepped out a monk. Bharata will never acccept the regalia in of the palace. my presence. It is therefore a must that I should retire to the woods. While I am away, my dear It is said that every word, every syllable from mother.... shower all your love and affection on my the greatest epic of Rama, inspires us to reach the brother Bharata. Your love, your affectionate touch, highest realms of spirituality, and ending our sins, your soothing words would be like divine heal for however great they might be. Rama was the epitome his scalded heart." of virtue. Kaikeyi and her strong ego brought a great upheavel not only in Rama's life, but in every life Rama's words, though spoken with utmost love that centered around Rama. Yet, never once, Rama and respect, hit Kausalya's heart like a spear, and spoke ill of her. He respected her as a mother, and she swooned. When the maids sprinkled sandal revered her as a queen. wood water on her, she regained consciousness and lamented. "Woe to me! why am I surviving For an Aryan woman, total adherance to the inspite of these mighty blows of destiny? On one will of her husband, is the true dharma. When Sita hand my husband has decided to forsake the world heard of Rama's decision, she did not say him, that and walk on the path of eternity. On the other hand if he really wanted to honour the promise of his famy son is about to leave me and settle in the lonely ther, he should have not married her in first place. forest, infested with wild beasts and birds of prey. He had decided to leave the palace, but did not How can I survive without you, my Rama ?.... How, even bother to consult her even once, before taking inspite of all these agonies, my heart is still alive? such hasty steps. How could he discard for the crown How can I breathe, inspite of these unbearable sor- and enormous powers that are associated with it? rows. Only death would bring a solace to my heart... What would happen to her, when he went away? but even the gods of death think that I am too un- He was concerned only about his parents not her. worthy to die! And therefore, I am left to continue A modern woman can think in similar lines but not living this accursed life, which has no meaning and Sita. She was a true sati! Jesubstance! Why and till how long will I continue tooral & Private Use Only

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Kausalya loved Sita more than her own offspring, she said, "Truely, you are the crest jewel of the dynasty that you are born in and the dynasty that you are married into, but remember, Rama is retiring to the woods to fulfil his father's promise. He is brave as a lion. He will easily get acquainted to the hardships of forest life, but you, my beloved daughter, have never ever been exposed to the austerities of forest life. The thorns that are found in abundance in the forest, will bleed your tender lotus feet. Will you be able to endure the unhindered wrath of nature like the scorching sun, bitter cold and the torrents of rain ? O pride of Aryavrata, when Rama helplessly sees you undergoing physical and mental pain, how will he feel? The Dharma commands you to be at your husband's side all the time. I, therefore, would not oppose your idea of accompaning your husband to the forest, yet, I will not grant you the permission, for the very idea of your sojourn in forest, makes my body tremble with fear and anxiety." OB UUTUUDIO Sita begs for permission to accompany Rama Sita, who was modesty personified, bowed down at the feet of King Dasaratha, with folded hands, and adressed Kausalya in a gentle voice, "Mother, can the body and soul exist without one another? Can nature and being be separated from each other? In the presence of the sacred fire, took the vow of being by my husband's side through thick and thin. Mother, my husband has decided to retire to the forest. He will live in humble shanty, eat only fruits and sleep on the modest bed of dry leaves, if he will be living an austere life, how can | live in this palace that offers every comfort, eat the best of the food and sleep on a comfortable bed. The dharma expects me to be at my husband's side during every ordeal. Therefore, grant me a permisasion to fulfil my duties as a wife." For Personal & Private Use Only These utterances of Kausalya prove that she was a very down to earth person. She loved her daughter in law like her own daughter. She did not want Sita to suffer the hardships of jungle life, and yet, she did not refrain her from fulfilling her own duty as a wife. She knew that a man and his wife are inseparable as a body and its shadow. Therefore, though she did not grant Sita a permission to join Rama in forest, she didnt even oppose her decision either. Most of the mothers, who shower selfless love and affection on their sons, treat the daughters-in-law as their bitterest enemy. They spare no efforts in turning the joys of their daughters-in-law into woes, but Kausalya was not an ordinary mother. She belonged to the clan of warriors, she was born in a virtuous family and was married into the dynasty of the first Jinesvara - the pioneer of culture and civilization. We therefore can

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36 notice noble traits, which add brightness to the aura that surrounds the personality of Kausalya. Every character in the epic Ramayana is associated with some lofty ideal. Dasaratha is an ideal king, husband and father. Kausalya is an ideal wife, mother and a mother-in-law. The progeny of Dasaratha are ideal sons, ideal husbands, ideal friends and ideal enemies as well. Sita is an ideal daughter, ideal sister, ideal wife and an ideal daughter-in-law. Like her twenty first century counterparts, Sita did not ask her husband, "Why did you take such a foolish decision? Do you expect me to abide by your stupid whims? You can enjoy hardships if you want, but you can't expect me to sacrifice my comforts." Sita was an epitome virtue. She could never even dream of humiliating either her husband or in laws. She said to Kausalya, "Mother, your blessings will always bring about graces in abundance, while we are in the forest. I cannot endure the hardships of jungle by my own virtue, but your blessings will confer enormous strength in me. I shall now follow the steps of Aryaputra Rama, as the fragrance of a flower follows the wind." step mother to Rama, she loved him so much that she willingly allowed her own son to follow the footsteps of Rama. Queen Kausalya was still weeping when Laksmana went to her Chamber. She said, "My son Rama has forsaken me. Your presence is the only balm to my wounded heart. You are the only ray of light that will brighten the gloom and despair that is in my heart. Rama has already left... atleast you stay here. Who would lit my funeral pyre if you are not here?" Laksmana replied, "You are the most blessed woman on the earth. How can the consort of King Dasaratha, and mother of Rama, weep and lament like a commoner? I was alwlays a slave to Rama, am, and shall remain all my life. I beseech you to gather courage and grant me a permission to follow Rama." The trio on the way to Forest On hearing Rama's decision, Laksmana was awrath. He thought, "My worthy father is a simple man. He has handed over the crown to Bharata and freed himself from the debt, but I cannot afford to remain quiet. I can declare a war against Bharata, dethrone him, and request Rama to take the reins of administration in his own hands, but Rama is a man of noble ideals. He does not value power. He will never accept the throne, and my father.... will his journey to salvation be a serene experience, if he knows what I am planing? Let Bharata be the ruler. I am a sibling of Rama. I am born to serve my elder brother. Let me follow him, as a shadow follows an object." On seeing Rama, Laksmana and Sita dressed up in simple clothes like common people and leaving for the woods, the citizens of Ayodhya began to lament. Rama had embraced the austere ascetic life to honour his father's promise. Sita and Laksmana were following him in order to serve him. On seeing them leave Ayodhya, the people felt that the very soul of Ayodhya was fleeing its body. The glitterati and the proletariat together followed Rama, weeping loudly. They were cursing Kaikeyi and their own fate. Accompanied by his consorts, King Dasaratha too followed Rama with a laden heart. Rama pacified him with sweet, soothing words and requested them to return to the palace. Having made this resolve, he bowed down before King Dasaratha and mother Sumitra and said, "My elder brother Rama has just left for the jungle to fulfill the promise that my father gave to mother Kaikeyi. He is being accompanied by Sita. I am a slave of Rama. May I join them in order to serve ?" Queen Sumitra was a noble lady. She said, "Son, you are a blessing to my womb, you are desirious of serving your elder brother during his sojourn in the forest. How can prevent you? I confer all my blessings on you. Rama has already left. Hurry, orelse you may not reach him." Though Sumitra was anal & Bharata was so disturbed that he nearly lost his equilibrium. He refused to ascend the throne, and forgetting his limitations as a son, began to rebuke Kaikeyi in very harsh words. Seeing the plight and anguish of Bharata, Dasaratha immediately dispatched his vassals and ministers to bring back

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Your Educalan International For Personal & Private Use One

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3 Kaikeyi repents and Bharata coronated 38 Rama, Sita and Laksmana. They rushed to Rama and appealed him to return. Their intelligent arguments, eloquent appeals, and tearful pleas, failed to change the resolve of Rama, yet they did not lose their hope and continued to follow him. They still believed that King Dasaratha surmoned Bharata and said, they might succeed in changing his decision and "dispatched my trusted ministers and vassals to bring Rama back, but he did not relent. I have left convince him to return to Ayodhya. no stone unturned and am sure that Rama would not return to Ayodhya under any circumstances. Soon, they came near a forest, which was Hence, Oh Bharata ! my worthy son, ascend the so dense that the sun-rays hardly penetrated in it. It throne and shoulder the yoke of responsibility, so was full of outsized trees that struck terror in the that I can take the vows of ascetic life." But Bharata hearts of the bravest. No one had ever seen such was undettered. He said, "I will not ascend the throne, come what may. I will go to the forest and scary trees before. A river named Gambhira was convince my brother Rama to return and take his flowing in the forest. On reaching the banks of the rightful position. I am sure, I will succeed in bringing river, Rama, with folded hands, appealed everyone him back alongwith me." While Bharata was speakto return. He said, "We are about to undertake a ing thus, Kaikeyi appeared and spoke, "My worthy Lord, you have handed over the regalia to Bharata journey full of perils and hardships. Pray return to as promised and thus fulfilled your words." You have Ayodhya and inform our parents that we are safe cleared my debts, but Bharata values service to and sound. Convey our obeisance to them. You have Rama more than the regalia. He will never ascend respected and obeyed every word of my father all the throne. Myself and the other mothers cannot endure the pangs of separation of Rama. Woe to these days, now respect and obey Bharata, in the me! overcome by greed, ruined the lives of my same way." sons and daughter in law! My master, we have four worthy sons and yet none is willing to be the heir to "We are unfit to serve Rama. Woe to us !" the throne! The life of a woman is meaningless withlamented the vassals and the ministers, but Rama out a husband, and that of the subjects is meaningwas unruffled. The trio soon crossed the deep river less without a king. My lord, permit me to leave at once along with Bharata, so that I can plead Rama Gambhira and disappeared in the shade of the thick to return to Ayodhya." trees. The ministers and vassals returned and narrated everything that transpired in the forest to King Dasaratha granted her the permission. Kaikeyi immediately left with Bharata. After six days of inDasaratha. cessant journey, Kaikeyi saw Rama, sitting below a tree with Sita and Laksmana. She alited from her chariot and rushed towards Rama, muttering, "Son... my beloved son....." She gently lifted Rama who had bowed down at her feet and kissed his forehead. She wept loudly when she gathered Laksmana and Sita in her arms. Bharata was sobbing uncontrolably. He swooned while prostrating before Rama. Rama gently lifted him and placed him on the bed of dried leaves. When Bharata regained consciousness, he began to weep again and said, "Like a celestial being forsaking a non-devotee, you have forsaken me. Do you really believe that I nurture a desire to be a king in my bosom? I have become a subject of mockery and hatred because of my mother. Either allow me to accompany you as you have allowed Laksmana, so that I can escape further humiliation, or return to Ayodhya with me and ascend the throne. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Bharata's Coronation When you mount the throne, Laksmana will be your trusted minister. I, Bharata, will bear a parasol over your head and Satrughna will sway the flywhisks." Kaikeyi said, "Dear son Rama, please honour the request of your younger brother Bharata. Neither King Dasaratha nor Bharata are responsible for your misery and plight. If there is any one to be blamed, its me! I am a storehouse of vices. Loyalty to the husband is the only virtue that I possess. I have inflicted enormous sorrow on my husband, sons and the other queens. Forgive me my son, forgive your wreched mother!!" Rama consoled his weeping mother and said, "Mother, the promise of a Ksatriya is like an arrow, impossible to be retrived. I am the son of Dasaratha, the most revered amongst the clan of warriors. Don't you wish that our names and reputation remains untarnished in the years to come ? Father has entrusted the crown to Bharata and I wholeheartedly support and laud his decision. If we do not keep our promises, we will be turned into living corpses. An elder brother is a fatherfigure, and Bharata cannot disobey either his father or me, his eldest brother." Saying this, he asked Sita to fetch some water and sprinkled it on the head of Bharata, in the presence of his mother and the other trusted ministers, and proclaimed Bharata to be the emperor of Ayodhya. He appeased the heart of Kaikeyi with gentle words, then, in a few but appropriate words, he explained to Bharata his duties as a king. Then he embraced him and bowed down before Kaikeyi and other elders and requested them to return to Ayodhya. When they left, the trio began its journey towards the south. Bharata upheld the words of his father and elder brothers like Dharma itself. He obeyed the command of Rama and returned to Ayodhya with a heavy heart. He ascended the royal throne unwillingly. He called himself a representative and a humble servant of Rama. He considered the crown to be Rama's property and himself its custodian. For Personal & Private Use Only

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283) NO Dasaratha's vow Finally, Dasaratha and seventy two of his great warrior friends received the vows of celibacy etc through Muni Sri Satyabhuti and were involved in the austere penance. Bharata was very much depressed, as he missed Rama badly, yet he received solace through the worship of Arihanta, the crown amongst the divine hierachy. He decided that he would look after the kingdom till Rama returned and then, he would hand over the crown to Rama and vow. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Courteous Rama, Laksmana and Sita in Avanti After leaving the percints of Ayodhya: Rama, Laksmana and Sita passed through Cittoda region and entered Avanti. They sat beneath a huge banyan tree. When they observed the surrounding region, they felt as if there was a mass exodus, not very long ago. Out of curiosity, Rama asked a passerby, "This region looks as if it was occupied by highly civilized people not very long ago. How has it become desolate? Did an epidemic strike in this area which resulted into this devastation? or did some king desirous of extending the boundaries of his territory attacked it?" The passerby answered, "The Avanti region is ruled by King Simhodara. His vassal Vajrakarna ruled Dasangapura. He is a devotee of the sage Pritivardhana, and has taken a vow that he would never bow down in front of anyone except Lord Arihanta, but since he was a vassal, he had to bow down before his master Simhodara. He therefore, got a small icon of Munisuvratasvami carved in a gem and set in a ring. He wore the ring in his finger while visiting his master. Instead of bowing down before the king, he would gaze at the mini icon in his ring and bowed down to it. This served two purposes. The vassal would not break his vow and the king would feel that Vajrakarna is offering him respect. However, one day the king learnt the truth. His pride was hurt. He considered the purest devotion as an act of treason and decided to kill Vajrakarna. A jain layperson informed Vajrakarna about the king's evil design. The vassal sent a meassage to his lord, "My master, I do not possess pride and vanity as you think, but I have taken a vow that I shall not bow down before anyone except Jinesvara Arihanta. am not an audacious man, but I will not bow down before you." On receiving this message, the angry king has seized Dasangapura. The terrified citizen have fled to save their lives and property. This has made the region look desolate." On hearing this; Rama, Laksmana and Sita reached Dasangapura. Rama sent Laksmana to the court of the emperor as his emissary. Laksmana met the king and said, "O mighty ruler, I bring you the message of my brother Bharata, the ruler of Ayodhya. He would like me to convey you this message, 'Your vassal Vajrakarna' has taken a vow that he will not bow down before any one except the Jinesvara, instead of lauding his devotion, you have seized his territory. I request you not to harass him." King Simhodara lost his temper when he heard this message. He misjudged Laksmana's strength and abilities because Laksmana, at that time, was dressed up like a humble pilgrim. He shouted, "Who is this stupid Bharata who is partial to my vassal? have never heard of him or his dynasty nor do I acknowledge the pauper who has the nerve to enter my royal court and talk with me like this..." King Simhodara, as a prisioner infront of Rama MOOD For Personal & Private Use Only

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42 When Laksmana heard this, he was annoyed. His face and eyes became red. He grinded his teeth and said "You are ruthless, and donot understand the decent language. I am here as a representative of King Bharata and I am behaving politely because an emissary of king is expected to be a man of impeccable manners. You do not deserve the courtesy. Rise-up and fight with me. King Simhodara accepted the challenge and ordered his soldiers to attack Laksmana. Laksmana pulled out a pillar meant for tying the elephants as if it was a creeper and began to attack his enemy with it. He defeated the entire army within no time. Then, he sprung high in air and mounted an elephant and pulled the uppercloth of the king, tied it around his neck and dragged him like an animal, to the forest where Rama lived. On seeing Rama, the vanquished king hanged his head in shame and with folded hands asked for pardon. Rama talked to him with utmost respect and made peace between him and his vassal. King Simhodara gave half of his territory to Vajrakarna. Vajrakarna gave eight of his daughters to Laksmana in marriage and King Simhodara gave away his three hundred daughters to Laksmana. He assured both of them that he would marry those three hundred and eight girls, when he would return to Ayodhya. Later on, they left towards the mountain Malaya, in the south. Rama and Laksmana were ardent devotees of Lord Tirthankaras; and any one who shared their faith was a brother to them. Therefore, they selflessly aided King Vajrakarna, a brethern in faith. Diety Gokirna serves Rama SE FOSCAR www dilIpa sAkariyA B797

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Vanamala attempting suicide Together, the blessed trio passed many hamlets, villages, cities and reached a forest : by then the rainy-season had set in. They decided to take a prolonged halt of four months in that jungle. Long journey during the rainy season is taboo. The prolonged sojourn of ascetics at one place during the rains is called caturmasa. The trio stopped beneath a gigantic tree. When a diety named Ibhakarna, residing on this treem, saw the handsome and luminious contours of Rama, he was terrified and decided to inform his master Gokirna about the arrival of strangers. Gokirna diety possessed Avadhigyan. He knew, who the virtuous and valiant strangers really were. Saying this, she hanged herself. Laksmana, at once climbed the tree and brought her down. He rebuked her gently, "O brave aryan lady, you will tarnish the reputation of your father by committing such a rash and cowardly act. Haven't you learnt that suicide is the greatest of all sins. All your life you desired to marry Laksmana, and now you are set to end your life when he is near you." The city built by diety Gokirna By using his mysterious powers, the diety built a big city which measured eight miles in length six miles in breadth, in one night. He named this new city "Ramapuri". He appeared before Rama and requested him to spend caturmasa at Ramapuri. Rama honoured his request and made Ramapuri his abode for the four months of rain. After the caturmasa, they set for a further journey. Gokirna diety gifted a Svayamprabha necklace to Rama; and a pair of earrings, inlayed with jewels, to Laksmana. Sita was gifted an exotic crest-jewel and a string instrument called Vina. The trio then passed through forest and reached the outskirts of Vijayanagara, ruled by King Mahidhara. His wife's name was Indrani. They had a daughter called Vanamala. She had heard stories extoling Laksmana, his handsomeness and his valour, since her childhood. Heart in heart, she resolved to marry Laksmana. King Mahidhara had heard about the ascetic vows of Dasaratha and exile of Rama, Laksmana and Sita. He felt sorry for the royal trio. When King Mahidhara realised that marriage between his daughter Vanamala and Laksmana was impossible, he decided to marry her to Prince Surendra of Candranagara. For young Vanamala, the idea of marrying any other man, besides Laksmana, was worth death. She decided to end her life. In the dark night, she stealthily stepped out of the palace and reached the outskirts of Vijayanagara. She tied one end of her upper cloth like a noose around her neck, and the other to the branch of a banyan tree. Rama and Sita were fast asleep under the tree, but Laksmana was wide awake. Vanamala prayed, "O Gods residing in this forest. Since childhood, I dreamt of marrying Laksmana, the son of King Dasaratha, but now, || believe that my dream will not be fulfilled. I have decided to end my meaningless existence by embracing untimely death. Grant me a boon that may Laksmana be my husband in all my next lives" Next morning, Laksmana narrated everything that transpired in the night, to Rama. King Mahidhara reached the outskirts of Vijayanagar when he didn't find Vanamala. When he saw Rama and Laksmana dressed up like hermits, he thought that they were thieves. Without thinking twice, he attacked them. When he saw the valiant youths defending themselves, he at once realised that they were not ordinary men. He stopped the fight and asked them who they were. When he came to know that the youths whom he misunderstood to be thieves were in fact the progeny of the great Dasaratha, he folded his hands and apologised. He then invited them to his palace and entertained them lavishly. Later, he requested Rama to grant Laksmana a consent to marry Princess Vanamala. For Personal & Private Use Only

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From Vijayanagara, Rama, Sita and Laksmana walked towards mount Vamsasailya. A city called Vamsasthala is situated in the ranges of this mountain. On reaching there, Rama noticed that terror reigned the city. Every citizen including the king appeared to be terrorised by some unknown, unseen element. A man informed Rama that since past three nights, great commotion was heard on the summits of the mountain. People failed to discern what caused the commotion. They were so scared, that they left the city before sunset and returned early next morning. The trio climbed the mountain. On reaching the top, they noticed the sages Jayabhusana and Kulabhusana in penance. The worthy trio bowed down before them and then sang devotional songs. Laksmana's pledge to Vanamala While Laksmana was making preparations for the further journey, Vanamala said, "O beloved master of my soul, I have craved to be with you all my life and finally you stepped into my life. Now I will not be able to sustain the seperation, even for a moment. I want to follow you, wherever you go. I want to serve you. Pray, marry me and take me along." Laksmana said, "At present, I am a menial serving my brother and sister-in-law. If you come along with me, my life will definately be more pleasant, but it might make me lax towards my duty. If I ignore you and remain attentive to my duty, I will make your life miserable. I neither desire to cause inconvenience to my elders nor do I desire to add to your plight. Therefore, I request you to stay here. When we will return to Ayodhya, I shall definately take you along. This is my solemn promise. If I break it, may the sin of dining after sunset be on my head forever." Dining in the night is one of the most condemned action mentioned in jain scriptures. It is denounced by our sages and scholars. It leads us to the gate of the hell. For Personal & Private Use of www.

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16 Jatayu meets Rama Atonement of Commotion by Rama-Laksmana After sunset, a diety named Trigupta muni preaching the trio Anangaprabha descended to the Mount Managiri, in the dense forest of mountain. He had vicious inclina Dandakaranya was made a temporary dwelling place tions and was the cause of the by the trio. One day, Trigupta and Sugupta, two commotion. Rama and Laksmana monks belonging to the carana category, reached challenged him for a combat. mount Mahagiri flying by air, to end their one month's Anangaprabha could not match fast called Masaksamana. Rama and Laksmana rethe two young men in valour and ceived them with warmth and offered them food etc. fled. The two sages that were penancing attained the purest The celestials in the heaven were very knowledge which is called pleased with their generosity and showered costli est gems and fragrant water, from the skies above. Kevalagyana. King Ratnajati of Kambudvipa, alongwith two dieties, arrived there and gifted him a unique and mystical The celestial beings de chariot and horses of renowned pedigree. A ill bird scended on the mountain to cel- named Gandha, residing in thick forest, descended ebrate the occasion. Grand fes- from the tree, being disturbed by the fragrant show er. Just as he gazed at the two monks, he recalled tivities began. King Surprabha of his previous births. The strange experience, how Vasasthala arrived to felicitate ever, unnerved him, and he swooned. Sita sprinthe sages and the brave warri kled water on him. On regaining consciousness, he touched the feet of the holy monks. The moment he ors. A shrine of Arihanta Prabhu touched their feet, he was at once healed by the was built on the mountain; since power of touch-medicine which they possessed. His then the mountain Vamsasailya wings received a golden hue and crest that resem bled luminious gems, grew on his head. This crest became famous as Ramagiri. is called Jata in Sanskrta and the bird acquired a From there, they entered new name-Jatayu. Rama asked the monks, "This is a carnivorous bird and when he touched your feet, Dandakaranya. we noticed a total transformation not only in his ex ternal appearance but also in his spiritual makeup." For Personal & Private Use Only WP SAKARIYA

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46 Then the monks through their knowledge narrated the past lives of the bird. The bird, once again, touched the feet of the monks. He was so overwhelmed with devotion that he pledged that he would renounce his habit of consuming carnivorous food and eating after sunset. The monks told Rama, "Now onwards, this bird shares your faith, he is now your brother in faith. It is your duty to protect his life and spiritual wellbeing." Then, the sages blessed them all and soared in the sky. The trio with utmost reverence offered Jatayu a seat in their chariot and left further. Ravana, the king of Demon clan had a sister named Surpanakha. She was married to a king called Khara and had two sons namely Sambuka and Sunda. Sambuka wanted to possess Suryahasa, a mystical sword, and despite of his father's warnings reached Dandakaranya to appease the deity, who possessed this sword. It is imperative for a man desirous of having the sword, to practice an austere penance for twelve years and a week, in caverns surrounded by thick bamboo trees. Sambuka practised the austere penance for twelve years and four days. As a result, Suryahasa sword was clearly visible in the sky. Only three days of penance were left, after which Sambuka was going to be the master of the mystical sword. 17 Sita's abduction Sambuka, beheaded in between bamboo trees by Laksmana While walking through the forest, Laksmana reached near a cave which was surrounded by thick bamboo trees. He noticed bright rays, penetrating through the long bamboo leaves. When he looked above, he noticed the divine sword. Laksmana just raised his hand and beholded the sword. Poor Sambuka spent the prime time of his life to posess that divine sword, and Laksmana procured it effortlessly. With a resounding swish, he struck the bamboo trees with the newly found sword. Sambuka had hanged himself upside down on one of the branches because the austere penance demanded it. The sharp sword separated his head from the shoulder and the headless body began to dangel from the tree. For the past lives of Jatayu refer appendix - 4 For Personal & Private Use Only

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Laksmana was aghast at this sight, he said, "I have struck some innocent man with this sword. Woe to me for this cowardly act." He at once rushed to Rama and narrated him what had transpired. Rama identified the sword, the moment he had a brief look at it. He said, "This is the divine Suryahasa sword. The person who was accidently slain by you was practising penance to possess it. Unfortunately, he breathed his last before he could obtain it. His uttarasadhaka - helper has to be somewhere in the vicinity." patiently awaiting for the completion of her son's penance. She was counting days, dreaming that her valiant son would possess the sword and emerge out more powerful. She was sure that her son's penance would bring him enormous success. Overwhelmed with joy, she reached the spot, where Sambuka carried out his austerities. She was bearing exotic food and fruits alongwith other things, required for a formal worship. On seeing her dear son's head slashed, shocked and horrified Surpanakha lamented loudly. When her outburst of emotion subsided, she noticed some foot prints. She trailed them and reached where the holy trio resided. Surpanakha, the mother of Sambuka, was im Surpanakha approaches Rama When Surpanakha noticed the handsome features of Rama, she was enamoured. She totally forgot that she was married and had two sons and one of them was just dead. With folded hands, she expressed her love for Rama and requested him to marry her. Rama replied, "I am already married to this noble woman. You may propose my younger brother who sits yonder." Struck by the arrows of Cupid, she rushed to Laksmana and requested him to marry her. Laksmana replied, "At first you approached my elder brother, and declared your love for him. You are therefore, like a sister-in-law to me. How can I accept you ? as, a sister-in-law is a mother figure to me? to con

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48 FILIP SON 29/9/99 For Personal & Private Use Only Laksmana's battle with Khara Surpanakha felt humiliated because both Rama and Laksmana rejected. her. Now she remembered that her son was no more. She rushed to her husband and informed him about the death of her beloved son. King Khara was furious and immediately summoned his army of fourteen thousand vidyadhars and approached for a battle. Laksmana pleaded Rama to stay with Sita, to protect her, and obtained permission to leave for a solitary warfare. Rama said, "My brother, may victory be yours! My words not only express my blessings but also the enormous confidence that I have in your valour. Nonetheless, if you are in trouble, make sound that resembles the roaring of a lion, I shall immediately rush for your aid.

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Surpanakha Provoking Ravana While the brave Laksmana was combating with the army of fourteen thousand Vidyadharas, Surpanakha hurried to Lanka, for she required an ally to strengthen her husband's side. She met Ravana and said, "Two tresspassers, who have established their sway over Dandakaranya, have murdered your nephew Sambuka. My husband Khar, who has resolved to avenge the death of his dear son, is indulged in a fierce. battle with Laksmana. The army consisting of fourteen thousand Vidyadharas, is helping my husband to vanquish the foe, and yet, they can't succeed.... This reminds me of Garuda, the son of Vinita, who alone pounces on the legions of snakes and shreds them. While Laksmana is engaged in a fierce battle, not very far away sits his elder brother, enjoying the solitude in the arms of his wife. Both the brothers are egoistic and overconfident. I beseech you, my mighty brother, to resolve to deception and abduct Sita, who is married to Rama. Haven't I told you that she surpasses all the women of the three worlds in beauty. Grab her hand. This gem amongst women is destined to be yours - the gem amongst warriors. If you do not obtain her woe to you!" paal For Personal & Private Use Only 49

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50 DILIP SONI. 30-12-2000 Jadual F .

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51 Ravana's gross nature arouse, when he heard Surpanakha's words. Overcome by the desire of possessing Sita, he mounted his aircraft Puspaka, and reached Dandakaranya within no time. There, he saw Sita accompanied by Rama. Rama's noble face, gleaming with the spiritual radiance and valour, his mascular body, that accentuated the enormous strength within and the swiftness of his limbs, that resembled a lightening, struck terror in his heart. He ran away, trembling with fear. When he reached a safe distance, he recalled Avalokini vidya. The vidya immediately appeared before him like a slave. Ravana expressed his desire of abducting Sita, and requested the vidya to help him. Avalokini vidya said, "Rama has asked his brother to imitate the roaring of lion, in the hour of peril. If you roar like lion, the misguided Rama will abandon Sita and run to help his brother. This is the only way in which your task will be accomplished." Ravana requested the vidya to imitate the roaring of a lion, and she complied. When Rama heard the sound of roaring, which was infact made by the Avalokini vidya, he said to himself, "My brother possess the strength of thousands of elephants. He can never be vanquished by any warrior in the three worlds, yet, this sound indicates that he is in trouble. What should I do?" Sita said, "Rush, my beloved master, rush and help your brother, before the fourteen thousand vidyadharas tear him into shreds. Rama hastened to the battlefield. The nature, through ominous signs and indications, warned Rama of the cruel blow of destiny that awaited him, but Rama was so distraught that he paid no heed to them. 3303 Ravana, abducting Sita After the departure of Rama, Ravana immediately descended from his aircraft, lifted Sita and rushed to his aircraft. Sita was lamenting loudly. On hearing Sita's desperate cries, Jatayu said in mind, "O Sita, the consort of my master, do not worry. Here I am to rescue you." He shouted at Ravana within, "O deceptive Ravana, why are you running away like a coward? fight with me if you can !" Saying this, he attacked Ravana. For Personal & Private Use Only

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52 Jatayu was mad with anger and attacked Ravana with his sharp beak and strong talons. Ravana's body began to bleed profusely. Like a plough that torments the earth, Jatayu's strong talons tormented Ravana's chest. Though Ravana was stronger than Jatayu, he could not endure Jatayu's wrath. Finally, with a mighty stroke of his sword Ravana cut off one of his wing and with a loud thud, he fell on the earth, wriggling with excruciating pain. As said earlier, Ravana was stronger than Jatayu, he had the best of the weapons, Jatayu had none, yet had the biggest asset called dharma. Those who believe in dharma must fight with adharma, however weak they might be, so that they can atleast derive the joy of not shirking from their duty. The scriptures mention that when the dharma is about to face extinction, or when the actions based on dharma are in peril, even the weakest of the person should resist, without consulting anyone. King Ratnajati's attack Ravana's aircraft was now flying over the ocean. Sita was lamenting aloud. Ratnajati, the ruler of Kambudvipa, heard Sita's pathetic pleas. He flew in the air, with a sword in his hand. Ratnajati was the king of vidyadhars. The vidyadhars are endowed with mysterious powers but Ravana was more powerful than Ratnajati. By using his magi cal power, he shattered all the powers that Ratnajati had. Finally, Ratnajati lost his consciousness and fell above the mountain Kambu, situated in Kambudvipa. However, the cool sea winds helped him regain the consciousness. Ravana was a Prativasudeva, the lord and master of the three division's of land. He was strong as well as intillegent, but Sita's beauty arosed the beastly instinct that was within him and 103 he was compelled to abduct Sita. In order to win over Sita's heart, he began to address in a courteous language. He said, "Do not lament O Sita, the most beautiful maiden in the three worlds! I am Ravana, the overlord of innumerable kings on the earth and celestial world. When you become my most favourite consort, your domain too will extend in the earth and heaven. Everything that I possess shall naturally be yours. So far, the stars and planets in your natal chart did not favour you, therefore you remained associated with a mere mortal. Rama should have made some gigantic achievements that would match your beauty. I shall achieve what Rama has not achieved so far. I am so enamoured by you that I am willing to laydown all my treasures and powers at your feet and be your slave." While addressing Sita in a courteous tone, PILIP SONT 497 For Personal & Private Use Only

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Ravana bowed down. He was about to place his head on Sita's feet, but Sita was a true arya woman, who considered even a casual touch made by a man other than her husband, as an action of abhorance. She placed her feet aside and shouted, "Stay away O Savage! Your instincts have overcome your senses. How dare you glance covetously at a woman, who is not married to you. Your end is inevitably awaiting." Soon, Ravana reached Lanka. His ministers had gathered at the percints to welcome him. His arrival was marked with festivities that lasted for days. Highly elated, Ravana entered Lanka. He took Rama, chanting 'Navakara' to the wounded Jatayu On regaining the consciousness, he noticed Jatayu, who was about to breathe his last. Selfless Rama rushed to his side, folded his hands and chanted the Navakara Mahamantra. The bird went in a trance when he carefully heard every syllable of the mantra, recited by the noble Rama. With a complete peaceful heart, he breathed his last. On account of hearing the Navakara Mantra on the deathbed, Jatayu's soul was elevated to the celestial world, where he was born as a diety. Sita to the Devaramana garden, which was situated in the eastern side. Trijata and other women belonging to the demon clan were given the charge of Sita. Sita sat below a red Asoka tree. While entering Lanka, Sita took a pledge that she would not consume food and water, until she received the news that both, Rama and Laksmana were safe. When Laksmana noticed his brother running towards him, he was surprised and asked, "Brother, why have you left Sita alone and come here?" Rama said, "Dear Laksmana, when I heard the sound of roaring that you made, I perceived that you were in danger and rushed to help you." Laksmana said, "I never made the roaring sound. I am convinced that some sly person has deceived us. Pray rush back and take care of Sita. I will vanquish the foe and return very soon." Rama hurried to his place and noticed that Sita was nowhere around. He searched for her, called her loudly, but when he did not receive a response, overwhelmed with sorrow, he swooned. ogohla HEIHEI mai antaa Malta giui MA1 eureaui Namo uvajjhAyANI mal aid uais bhii4/agrii Qaqa muraui Havanata padamI hava3maMgala / Persone Private Use Only

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54 18 Imposter at Kiskindha Rama searched for Sita at every nook and corner. Laksmana was fighting a heroic war with Khara. In the meantime, Viradha, the son of Khara's younger brother Candrodara, alongwith his army, joined Laksmana. He said, "I am Viradha your slave and an enemy of your enemies. Ravana had dethroned my father Candrodara, the king of Patalalanka, and made the vidyadhara Khara the king." When Khara noticed his own nephew and enemy Viradha, joining Laksmana, he blazed with anger and challenged Laksmana for a combat. Laksmana accepted the challenge and rained arrows on him. A fierce battle was fought between the two. Finally, Laksmana, with a weapon Ksurapra, beheaded King Khara. His brother Dusana too was killed. After the war was over, Laksmana took Viradha to Rama. There, he learnt the news of Sita's abduction. Viradha, at once, sent his warriors in quest of Sita, but none of them succeeded. Finally, Viradha said, "If both of you honour us by visiting Patalalanka, we will search for Sita there. At the entrance of Patalalanka, Sunda, the son of Khara, challanged Viradha for a duel, but when he saw Laksmana, he was struck with terror. Somehow, he managed to escape from Patalalanka and headed straight to Lanka. Rama and Laksmana reinstated prince Viradha on the throne of his father, King Candrodara. The new king, Viradha, shifted his residence in Sunda's abode, while Rama and Laksmana occupied the palace of Khara. The gaurd, obstructing Sugriva King Sugriva, who ruled Kiskindha, belonged to the race of apes. His wife Tara, was a unique blend of beauty and virtue. Sahasagati vidyadhara was enticed by her beauty. One day, by using Pratarini vidya, he asumed the form of King Sugriva and entered Kiskindha. At that time, the real king, Sugriva was entertaining himself in a garden nearby. The crooked imposter Sahasagati was waiting for an oppurtunity to enter the harem. As he was about to enter the harem, the real Sugriva reached the main gate of the palace. The gate keeper did not let him enter the palace. For Personal & Privat Fopthe foundation of the race of apes, refer appendix a elibrary.org

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5 a lion in strength and valour, who striked terror in the hearts of his enemies, is now running away like a timid rabbit. I, your widowed sister, surrender myself at your feet and beg to avenge the humiliations that I have suffered. The souls of our dear departed will not rest in peace, until you vanquish their foe" Candragati, the son of Vali, and the nephew of Sugriva, grew suspicious of the imposter and stopped him from entering the harem. The army was summoned. The similar resemblance between the two Sugrivas left them wonderstruck. Sugriva's own trusted warriors and friends failed to point out the imposter, this let to a division in the army. Finally, Hanumana was summoned by Sugriva. He too failed to recognise the imposter. As a last resort, Sugriva sent a missive to Rama, requesting him to rush for his rescue. He further promised that, if, by Rama's grace, he could get rid of the imposter, he would forever, be Rama's slave, and aid him in his quest for Sita. Though Rama was afflicted with misery, he rushed immediately to help Sugriva, for, Rama was kindness personified. Sugriva challenged the imposter for a duel. A fierce battle was fought between them. When they inflicted mighty blows on each other, the earth trembled with their maces. The resemblance between Sahasagati and Sugriva was so striking that even Rama could not catch the imposter. Ravana consoled his sister, who was weeping uncontrolably, and said, "Dear Sister, are you not acquainted with the valour of your brother Ravana? I am the master of weapons, missiles and sorcery. Besides that, I possess enormous physical and intellectual strength. I am the lord of three khanda's. My name strikes terror in the hearts of dieties, stars and planets. My sister ! while sharing your grief, I solemnly assure you that the impertinent mortal, who has murdered your husband and his kin, cannot run away from my clutches. I shall never rest till I annihilate him." Finally, Rama lifted his famous bow called Vajravarta and plucked its string. The string made such a fierce sound that the Pratarini vidya left Sahasagati's person and ran like a scared deer. Everyone could now see Sahasagati in his original form, trembling with fear. "Sinner Sahasagati, how dare you cast a covetous glance on a lady married to someone else?" shouted Rama angrily. Next moment Rama's arrow struck Sahasagati's heart, like lightening, and he fell on the earth, bleeding profusely, and breathed his last. Rama reinstated Sugriva on the throne of Kiskindha. Sugriva was ready to offer thirteen of his daughters to Rama in marriage but Rama refused, saying that, the quest of Sita was his topmost priority and therefore, it wouldn't be fair for him to marry. When the news of the death of Khara and Dusana reached Lanka, Ravana's wife Mandodari and the other ladies belonging to the royal family went into mourning. While they were weeping, Ravana's sister Surpanakha too reached there. When she saw Ravana, she began to beat her breasts and lamented loudly, "Your enemy has murdered my husband, my brother-in-law and my beloved son. He mercilessly slaughtered fourteen thousand strongest vidyadharas, that were a pride of my husband. You had coronated my son as the ruler of Patalalanka. He too has been dethroned and is roaming like a pauper.... my son, who surpassed His heart was tormented by the strong desire and passion that he felt for Sita. This and his sisters plight, for her departed husband and son, ruined his sleep. He would remain wide awake throughout the night. Mandodari noticed this and asked, "My beloved master, you are the ruler of the three major khanda's. The dieties envy your wealth and power. You have everything in the world and yet, like an ordinary mortal, you seem to be worried about something. I am your wife, your better half. Your plight has ruined my happiness. Please tell me the reason of your sorrow, and let me know if I can help you." Ravana said, "Inspite of me being prosperous, brave and powerful, Sita has no place for me in her heart. This has given restlessness to my heart. This has deprived me of my sleep. If you could be my envoy, and plead to her about my suffering, she might respond to my love and offer herself to me. I have svowed in the presence of my gurus that I shall never have physical relations with any woman, against her will. If Sita voluntarily comes over to me, I shall not only be able to satisfy my senses, but the promise given to my gurus shall also remain unbroken". i Once, Ravana went to Mount Meru, where Muni Anantavirya was preaching. After bowing and respecting him, he heard the preachings At the end, he asked the muni a How will I die?a The muni answered, aYou are a prativasudeva, therefore your death will be by the hands of vasudeva, and it's cause will be other women a At that time, he took a pledge that he would never have physical relations with any woman against her will For Personal & Private Use Only

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Mandodari, persuading Sita No woman ever likes to share her husband with another woman, but Mandodari was a devoted and chaste woman, who considered the happiness of her husband the most important. Inspite of the fact that Mandodari was a sati- high born and belonged to a noble family, she went over to entice Sita, so that her husband would be happy. On seeing Sita, she said, "O Noble Aryan woman, I am Mandodari, the most beloved consort of the mightiest Ravana. You are indeed a fortunate woman, because you have bewitched my husband. He, who strikes the terror in the hearts of dieties, planets, yaksas and demons, is mad in love with you. If you accept his love, I shall be indebted to you not only in this life, but also in the lives to come. I shall be your slave for ever and ever." Hearing this, the livid Sita replied, "Can there be a comparison between a lion, the lord of jungle and a fox, the slave of greed: I have been married to noble Rama, who surpasses Cupid in handsomeness and the most virtuous person in virtue. How can I ever respond to your husband's pleas, who is nothing but a slave to his passion. Your husband desires that I be his wife ! and you.... you have the nerve, the audacity to come here as his envoy, go away, for your presence here will destroy my virtue, go.... go away at once." After this, Ravana visited Sita many times. At times he courteously expressed his desire, at times he spoke with terror in his trembling voice. He tried his best to convince Sita, yet she remained unaffected by his approach. Then NIFT Ravana created the illusions of scary owls, cats, evil spirits like pisaca, vetala and preta by using sorcery, but he neither succeeded in distracting her, nor could he strike terror in her heart. Sita prayed the pancaparamesthi in her heart. She never thought of anything besides the parhcaparamesthi, dharma and her spouce. When Bibhisana heard that Ravana was enamoured by Sita and had abducted her, he decided to meet her. The next morning, he met Sita and after greeting her, he said, "O aryan woman, your divine beauty and impeccable etiquetts testify your noble birth. Whose daughter are you? Who is the worthy man, whom you have married? Where For Personal & Private Use Only

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won over by logical arguments, likewise, my brother has lost his senses, for he is under the spell of love that is, but fatal. Many kings including Hanumana are the allies of Rama, for he is just and righteous. If we act wisely, we can still avert the destiny and avoid the total annihilation of our race." Bibhisana, later installed a vidya called Asalika on the fortess of Lanka and also made the necessary preparations for war. have you come from? Who brought you here? Have no fear, for though I am the sibling of the King Ravana, I treat a woman, married to someone else, as my sister. Pray, tell me your account." Sita trusted Bibhisana and narrated him everything beginning with her infancy to abduction. Bibhisana immediately rushed to Ravana, when he learnt who Sita was, and said, "My brother, now the destruction of the demonic dynasty is inevitable. Have you forgotten the oracle, uttered by the learned seer? Don't you remember that, he predicted the progeny of King Dasaratha and Janaka to be the cause of your death? I beseech you to return Sita to Rama with due honours, before he attacks Lanka alongwith the valiant Laksmana, and turns it into ashes." When Ravana heard this, he began to tremble with rage. He shouted, "Coward Bibhisana, you aren't worthy of calling yourself my brother. Aren't you aware of my physical strength and valour? I shall resort to convince Sita to accept my love, in peaceful ways. If she still refuses, I shall resort to seduce her. If Rama and Laksmana attacks Lanka, I shall kill them, and offer their bodies to Yama- the lord of death." 19 Hanumana meets Sita Sugriva meets Rama The pangs of Sita's separation tormented Rama to such an extent that he almost became depressed. Laksmana was enraged when he saw this. He reached to the palace of Sugriva and in a harsh voice said, "O unworthy Sugriva, how dare Bibhisana said, "Strange indeed are the plays of destiny ! I myself entered the sleeping chamber of Dasaratha and murdered him. Yet, he is alive - who can explain this miracle? No one can avert the destiny. My lord, you have resolved to end your life and bring a dishonour to our future generation till eternity. I am your sibling, devotee and slave. Pray give my request a thought." Ravana remained unaffected by the overwhelming appeal of Bibhisana and decided to impress Sita with his wealth and grandeur. He mounted Puspaka, his aircraft, along with Sita and took her around Lanka. He showed her gardens, forests, mountains made up of precious stones, springs, rivers, and the resorts that surpassed heaven. He wanted to impress Sita with his wealth and power. Sita was a true sati and therefore remained unaffected by Ravana's display of wealth. When Bibhisana failed in convincing Ravana about acquiting Sita, he decided to summon the council of ministers and discuss the grave situation with them. He said, "You learned council of ministers are like trustworthy family members to us and therefore, I feel no hesitation in discussing the predicament that is hanging over our heads. My brother Ravana has been foolish to fall in love with Sita, and his passion for her is indeed so great that he has lost his power of reasoning. Like a moth that jumps on the flame and destroys itself, he is inviting his own death, by falling in love with Sita. A man who follows false religious doctrines cannot be For Personal ate Use Only

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58 you become so complacent, while my brother Rama is tormented by misery? How can you indulge into the pleasures of heaven, while my brother has become almost ill by grief? You promised him that you will personally leave kiskindha in quest of Sita, the moment you were reinstated, and here you are a slave of sensual pleasures ! Don't you remember your promise. Rise-up and join me, orelse I will be forced to slay you as Sahasagati." The remorseful Sugriva begged to be forgiven and immediately sent the bravest of his soldiers in quest of Sita. They searched the islands, oceans, mountains, and innermost depths of the earth. Sugriva himself reached Kambudvipa. Ratnajati Vidyadhara thought, "Ravana has deprived me of all my vidyas and now, he has sent his trusted ally Sugriva to kill me." Ratnajati's anxiety was not baseless because Sugriva was really a trusted ally of Ravana. In the meantime, Sugriva came near him and said, "Inspite of seeing me, you didn't arise to welcome me. You are a vidyadhara, proficient in Akasagaminividya - the power of flying. How could you became a victim of lethargy? Have you forgotten the rules of hospitality?" Ratnajati replied, "Neither am I a victim of lethargy, nor have I forgotten the rules of hospitality. When I saw Ravana flying in his Puspaka aircraft alongwith Sita, the beloved consort of Rama, whom he had abducted, I challenged him, for! wanted to free Sita from his clutches. I fought bravely, but he deprived me of all my vidyas and dropped me on the earth. Since then, the clouds of fear are hovering above my head. I therefore did not arise, inspite of Jain seeing you. Please forgive me." Sugriva brings Ratnajati at Rama's feet King Sugriva was endowed with a generous heart. He not only accepted the apologies of King Ratnajati, but also brought him to Rama. Ratnajati bowed before him. Rama arose and embraced him. He then, smothered Ratnajati with many questions, for the vidyadhara king was the last person who had seen Sita. Ratnajati described the anger, frustratrion and wailing of Sita, vividly. On receiving the news of Sita's abduction, her brother Bhamandala and the emperor of Patalalanka, Viradha joined Rama's side along with their armies. Rama asked Sugriva and Bhamandala, "How far is Lanka, the empire of King Ravana?" They replied, "It does not really matter whether Lanka is far away from here or near because, none of us can match Ravana in physical strength, and in the art of magic and sorcery." Rama said, "I wish you would only guide us to Lanka. My brother Laksmana has the strength to defeat not only Ravana, but also his entire army.

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He alone is capable of slaying Ravana and free Sita. I desire to fight a battle with Ravana, and do not really care whether I win or loose." Laksmana said, "Show me the burrow of that cunning fox, Ravana. He has tarnished the image of the Ksatriya clan with his obscene act. shall cut off his head and cleanse this tarnished image. I want all of you to be the spectators of this great event." "Here is Hanumana, the worthy progeny of Pavananjaya. Unparallel in strength and modesty, he has always been to my side in difficult times. Besides valour, love and courtesy, he has noble traits like truthfulness, honesty, purity of the soul, and selflessness. No one can excel him in strength and intelligence. Therefore, I think it would be appropriate to send Hanumana in quest of Sita." Jambavana said, "Young warrior, we know that you, with your enormous strength and mastery of warfare, can slay Ravana in a moment, but I recall the prophesy of Muni sri Anantavirya, a great sage of the past, who had said, "The man who lifts up the Kotisila will slay Ravana. I therefore appeal you to accompany me to Kotisila. When you lift it, we will be assured that you alone are destined to slay Ravana." Laksmana accepted the proposal of Jambavana. Then, he flew with him and reached near the Kotisila. Laksmana lifted the heavy stone, as if it was a flower. This indeed assured Jambavana that Laksmana alone will be the cause of Ravana's death. Together they reached Kiskindha. Hanumana replied, "I am a humble being, yet since the emperor Sugriva has high regards for me, he is showering praise on me unnecessarily. Many of his warriors can not only match me in strength and intellect but also excel me. Yet, if you command me to start for Lanka, I must obey you. What should I do when I reach Lanka? May I lift the entire demonic clan and bring it to you, or shall just capture the boastful Ravana alongwith his kin? or may 1 kill Ravana alongwith his entire family and bring back Sita to you?" A senior man said, "The battles always bring about enormous loss of wealth and life, therefore, as far as possible, battle must be avoided. Wisemen have mentioned that an envoy should be sent in the camp of the adversaries. If the envoy, with diplomacy, succeeds in bringing about a truce, then war must be avoided. Let us too send our envoy to Lanka, who would first meet Bibhisana, for inspite of belonging to the clan of demons, he is a man of ethics. He can persuade Ravana to free Sita. If Ravana ignores his pleas, he might forsake him and join us. When our last efforts to avoid the war fails, we will resort to battle." The suggestion of the aged man was accepted unanimously. Sugriva, with a permission from Rama, sent Sribhuti to bring noble Hanumana, a trusted ally and true friend. When Hanumana received the missive from Sugriva, he hurried at once and reached Kiskindha. Sugriva took him to Rama and said, Priy

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60 Rama, handovering his ring to Hanumana Rama said, "Hanumana, who possesses enormous strength, is capable of doing anything, yet I request you to only find the whereabouts of Sita. When you meet Sita, pray hand over this ring of mine and tell her, "O Sita, your beloved Rama is being tormented by your separation. Rama thinks of nothing but you. Can the soul be separated from its abode, the body? How can Rama remain alone in your absence? O Sita, you possess the purest traits of an arya woman. I fear that you will end your life, if you find my separation hard to endure. I request you to control your emotions. We shall be reaching Lanka very shortly, and once we reach there, Laksmana will pounce on Ravana like a lion and end his life. O Hanumana. you will be successful in your mission, yet I shall be obliged if you bring back her crest-jewel. Seeing and touching that jewel will reduce my pangs of separation to a certain extent." Hanumana bowed down before Rama and said, "Bless me and all my efforts, O Noble Rama! I shall return as early as possible and beseech you to stay here, till I return!" with these words, Hanumana left for Lanka. On the way, Hanumana came across the city Mahendranagari, ruled by his grandfather in law. He recalled that the king had exiled his mother, therefore he thought, "Why not shall I take revenge of the injustice done to my mother" Thus, he defeated his grandfather-in-law and uncle-inlaw, Prasannakirti, in a battle that followed and sent them near Rama. Further, Hanumana reached the island Dadhimukha, where two munis were standing still in a penance. Three irreproachable girls were also penancing there. Impetuously, a forest - fire broke and endangered their lives. Hanumana came to their rescue and with his power, brought the sea water and deceased the fire. At that moment, those girls acheived the vidya's - power. Hanumana directed their father, King Gandharvaraja with his troops to Rama. For the cause of exile, refer to the book, a The Night mare is overa by al & Private Use Only Acarya Gunaratna Suri. M.S.

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Hanumana entering the mouth of Asalikavidya Bibhisana was scared that the folly his brother would route the entire clan Raksasas. He had therefore installed a fierc vidya called Asalika at the entrance of th rampart surrounding Lanka. This vidya wa fierce as calamity and was surrounded b fire. She hissed like a legion of snakes. He mouth was constantly open. She would no let any stranger in. When anyone tried to en ter Lanka, she would just grab and swallow him. When Hanumana reached the outskirts of Lanka, he came face to face with the fierce Asalika. When the Vidya noticed Hanumana she shouted, "O foolish ! Where are you of to? I am hungry; probably the benevolen providence has sent you to be my lunch." With these mocking words, she opened her mouth wide, and in entered the valiant fearless Hanumana alongwith his mace. The vidya closed her mouth, all pleased with herself but Hanumana tore open her stomach and came out like the radiant sun, who emerges out of thick black clouds. Educ a tional For Personal Private Use Only

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Hanumana's engagement with Lankasundari pression on her face, she murmered, "Who are you, O the valiant of valiants? I was furious when I learnt of my father's death, but now I remember the prophery of a monk, that whosoever slays my mighty father, would marry me. I therefore request you my love, to accept my hand. I am indeed fortunate to marry you." The chivalrous Hanumana married her according to the Gandharva rites. After sunset, he set towards Lanka. He then demolished the rampart that surrounded Lanka, as if it was an earthern vessel. When Vajramukha, the incharge of the rampart, saw it crashing down, seething with anger, he attacked Hanumana. Hanumana killed him in no time. When his daughter Lankasundari heard that her father was no more, she was blind with fury. She rushed out like a streak of lightening and attacked Hanumana. She hit him again and again with her mace, but the mighty Hanumana was unperturbed. With a mighty blow of his mace, he destroyed all her weapons. Surprisingly, the face of Lankasundari softened. With a coy ex Hanumana, convincing Bibhisana Next morning, he met Bibhisana in the later's abode. Bibhisana honoured him by his exquisite hospitality and asked him the purpose of the visit. Hanumana said, "Your brother Ravana has abducted sati Sita against her will. I request you to have a talk Andanao ESCOUBORA . Otpad DO udh Private Use Only

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with your brother and convince him that this rash act will not only ruin his earthly life but also affect his future lives, in the ages to come. Pray, request him to set Sita free at once, orelse Rama will destroy his entire clan." Bibhisana replied, "You are indeed a true devotee of Rama, you speak nothing but the truth. I have myself urged my brother to set Sita free and avoid the war many times, but he did not give a heed to my advice and warnings. I will try to convince him again. He might insult me, he might bruise my self-esteem, yet I will do my best for the existence of my beloved motherland, Lanka" DUVUUDA Foto TEXTO Hanumana left the palatial abode of Bibhisana and reached the Devaramana garden. From far away, he noticed Sita beneath a red Asoka tree with her hair disarrayed. Her eyes were downcast and flowing with tears. Rigorous fasting for three weeks, had weakened her body, but not her resolve. Her Sita, astonished on seeing Rama's ring. face was pale, yet when she raised her face, her Hanumana used his mystical powers and eyes resembled twin made himself disappear. He came close to Sita and flames. She was motion- dropped Rama's ring in her palms. When Sita saw less like an ardent yogini. the ring of her beloved Rama, her joy knew no Her mind, her thoughts bounds. and her downcast gaze was focussed on Rama. Trijata, who was guarding Sita alongwith other sentinels, noticed Sita's face gleaming with joy. She When Hanumana saw rushed to her master and said, "Victory to you o her, he thought, Ravana. Since past three weeks, Sita's face looked "Blessed is my life, for pale and pathetic. Some miracle has brought her have seen a Mahasati. enormous joy today. I am sure that she has forgotNow I realize, why Rama ten her husband Rama and is willing to marry you." has become disgusted On hearing this, Ravana immediately disby Sita's separation. patched his favourite consort Mandodari to Sita. Ravana has two kinds of Inspite of being humiliated by Sita earlier, Mandodari retribution against his once again went to convince her. She said, "Sita, folly. Rama will inflict a Ravana is endowed by not only enormous strength but also by handsomeness and wealth. He is the very painful death on epitome of masculine beauty and you are the most him, and once he is beautiful maiden in the three worlds. Unfortunately, dead, his soul will be tor- though he loves you the most, you do not recipromented by the merciless cate his love. Today, I see your face gleaming with retinue of Yama for a pro ecstasy, and therefore venture to say, the destiny is longed period." about to shower its choicest blessings on both of For Personal & Privay Quonly

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reached here, carrying Sri Rama's ring with me. Lord Rama would like to have your crest jewel, for it would be a testimony to the fact that I really met you." After a lot of persuation, Sita finally ended the fast which lasted for about three weeks. Then, she handed over her crest jewel to Hanumana and said, "Here is the crest jewel which my lord wanted, take it carefully to Sri Rama. I request you to start your return journey at once, orelse there would be a great trouble." 64 I beseech you to accept the un- daunted and intense love of my lord Ravana. If you accept his love, the entire harem, including me, shall be your slave for the life time. Trembling with wrath, Sita shouted, "Go away, If seeing the repulsive face of your husband is a sin, seeing your face is the greatest sin. In a short while from now, you will witness my beloved husband standing next to me. Your husband Ravana is about to follow the footsteps of Khara and Dusana. Laksmana, my brother-in-law, will fasten the noose of Yamaraja around your husband's neck." Thus rebuked by Sita, Mandodari sadly arose and slowly walked towards the harem. Hanumana appeared before Sita and offered her obesiance. With hands folded, he said, "Mother, you are indeed the most blessed maiden on the earth, for you are married to my lord Sri Rama. I am his humble slave and envoy. Sri Rama and his brother are absolutely safe, but the miseries of separation have affected him considerably. My lord Rama had given me this ring when I set out in your quest. shall be leaving you very soon, but once I reach Kiskindhapuri, the valiant of valiants Rama and his brother Laksmana will attack this abode of sins. They will vanquish the foe and release you." Smiling softly, Hanumana said, "Mother, I am your infant, therefore your worry about my safety is natural, but I am a humble slave of Rama and Laksmana, who can conquer the three worlds. If you order me, I shall vanquish Ravana alongwith his army in no time and then carry you on my shoulders to my master Rama." Sita said, "Dear son, I firmly believe that, no one, born of a man, demon or a celestial being can match you and surpass you in strength, but an Aryanwoman considers even a slight and casual touch of man, other than her husband, worse than the sting of death. I therefore request you to hurry up and meet Rama, so that he rescues me from here!" When Sita heard this, tears of joy began to roll down on her cheeks. She said, "Who are you, O ocean of Strength? How did you cross this vast ocean? Where is Laksmana and my lord Rama. When and how did you meet him? How did he look when you saw him last? Hanumana answered with reverence, "Mother, I am the son of Pavananjaya and Anjanasundari. With the help of Akasagamini vidya, I managed to fly across the vast ocean. Laksmana and your lord Rama are at Kiskindha nagari. Being seperated from you has affected both Rama and Laksmana equally. Rama hardly converses with anyone. He has never smiled or laughed, eversince you are separated from him. Laksmana looks as pathetic as a calf, who has been separated from its mother. There is no joy and peace in his heart, ever since you have been abducted. Sugriva, the ruler of Kiskindha, advised your lord Rama, to dispatch me in your quest and thus | Font & Pasto www clarary.org

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Hanumana said, "Mother, your word is a command for me, but pray, allow me to display my strength to these foolish people. Ravana considers himself to be the supreme warrior. He does not even acknowledge the strength and valour of others. I must show him a few samples, of what Rama's slave is capable of." Devastation of Devaramana garden 65 Some of the gatekeepers, who somehow managed to save their lives, came rushing to Ravana and narrated him the whole incident. Ravana immediately ordered his eldest son, Aksayakumara, to attack Hanumana and kill him. A fierce battle was fought between the two. Finally, Hanumana killed Aksayakumara. Ravana then ordered his younger son Indrajit to arrest the miscreant. Indrajit tried all the weapons that he possessed on Hanumana, but none of them could hurt his strongest body. Finally, he threw Nagapasa on him. Hanumana could have easily freed himself from the Nagapasa, yet he wanted to meet Ravana face to face therefore, he did not free himself. The soldiers then dragged him to Ravana. Hanumana began to devastate the garden like a wild elephant. He uprooted the heavy asoka, bakula, mandara, mango and banana trees and tossed them in the sky. There was a great commotion in the Devaramana garden. Hearing it, the gatekeepers came rushing. They carried heavy clubs in their mighty hands and attacked Hanumana with their clubs fiercely. He retaliated by hitting them with the trees that he had uprooted. A valiant man might be alone, he might be without weapons and he might be surrounded with troubles, yet he never loses his spirit." When Ravana saw him, he shouted, "Have lost your senses, you absurd? Rama and Laksmana are mendicants. They eat fruits, dress up in shabby clothes and live in hut. What will they offer you, even if they are highly pleased ? Hey imbecile, you risked your life for the sake of those fools. You have been in my service in the past and now you're an envoy of the foe, therefore, the rules of Dharma prevent me from killing you?" Hanumana said, "Since when am I your servant and since when are you my master? You used to ask us for help when you needed it and we helped you. My worthy father, Pavananjaya, rescued you and your brother-in-law Khara from the clutches of Varuna. When the son of Varuna attacked you, I protected you, but now, I shall never protect you, for you have abducted a woman, who is already married to someone else! I think exchanging conversation with you is grievous sin. Who can protect you from the wrath of Rama and Laksmana? You are a coward and so is your entire clan!". When Ravana heard the words of Hanumana, he began to tremble with rage and said, "You have left me and joined my enemy, therefore you too have become my enemy. I must slay you, for you are a foe, but the trouble is that you are an envoy, and therefore I must not kill you, but I can punish you for your lack in polish and obscene behaviour. I shall therefore, straddle you to a donkey and parade on the streets of Lanka. The people will laugh at you. They will jeer and mock you." When Hanumana heard this, he was enraged. He freed himself from the Nagapasa and 1 Jain elatior international 10. Personal & Private Use Only

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66 leapt like a streak of lightening. He kicked the crown of Ravana and broke it into pieces. Maddened by anger, Ravana shouted, "Catch him, catch that impertinent fool... arrest him.... behead him..... but the soldiers of Ravana were so terrified by the awesome Hanumana that they did not venture to obey their master. With his mighty blows and kicks, Hanumana demolished the loftiest palace, abodes and exquisite terraces. On reaching Kiskindha, he handed over to Rama, the crest jewel that belonged to Sita. Rama was shocked with emotions, when he saw the crest jewel. For a moment he thought that he was seeing Sita in person. He kissed the crest jewel many times and clasped it near his heart. He then embraced Hanumana and blessed his head. Hanumana narrated him the delighting and thrilling expereince of Lanka. The war begins Rama and his warriors marched towards to our clan; Eversince your birth, you have been Lanka. They visited Velandhara nagara on the way. timid and coward. You are the main blemish on the The kings Samudra and Setu, who ruled this mighty reputation of our dynasty. My worthy father had vankingdom, joined Rama's army. Rama reached quished Indra and captured his kingdom. If you inSuvelagiri and defeated its proud King Hamsaratha sult him, you are inviting your own death. You are and encamped there. The spies of Ravana kept him the traitor, who had deceived my father earlier. informed about the slow and steady marching of Rama's army. Ravana's generals Hasta, Prahasta, Have you forgotten that you had vowed to Marica, Sarana began to make preparations for the assassinate both Dasaratha and Janaka. What hapwar. Ravana blew his conchshell. The echos of the pened to your vow? You are the dimwit, the fool, war march began to be heard all over Ravana's do who couldn't distinguish between an effigy and a main. real person. You endeavoured to bite more than what you could chew. You left to assassinate Dasaratha As a last attempt to avoid the war and the and what did you kill? an effigy, and made us comsubsequent damage, Bibhisana met his brother placent with your deciet, and now you are trying in Ravana. He said, "My worthy brother and Lord of vain to strike terror in the heart of my father. Friends, Lanka, abducting a woman married to someone else relatives and wellwishers are the people, whose is the biggest sin, condemned by the religious edicts advice one must sought in the difficult time. You are and social norms equally. Your rash act will not only neither a friend nor a wellwisher and relative. A valcause your own destruction, but also end your dy- iant foe is better than a coward friend like you." nasty forever. Your action will not let you rest in Bibhisana said "Dear child Indrajit, I do not peace, even after your death. Rama has arrived here to release Sita, and no matter what happens, he support the enemy, nor am I a traitor, but you are a shall release her. Pray, welcome Rama, extend your traitor in the garb of a son. The carnal desires have hospitality and handover Sita to him. If you do as blinded your father, above that, he is a victim of overadvise, you shall not only save your own life, but confidence and vanity. Since you support the unthe lives of your subjects too. But, if you have de ethical actions of your father, you are equally cided to behave stubbornly, you are inviting plague resonsible for the future carnage. Dear Indrajit, you and pestilence on yourself and the entire clan. are still young; why are you inviting the pestilence, that will exterminate our clan for ever." Then turning Rama and Laksmana crushed Vidyadhara to Ravana, he said, "You are going to be vanquished Sahasagati and Khara, as if they were pests. because of your evil desires and designs, and this Hanumana is a humble servant of Rama, but don't worthless son of yours will be a mute witness to the you remember the devastation brought about by him deluge that you have invited." Ravana's anger was a short while ago? My valiant brother, you are kindled and when he heard this, he raised his scimigreater than Indra in wealth and valour, yet I am tar to attack Bibhisana. Bibhisana pulled a pillar and sure that you will not be able to endure the wrath of raised it in defence but Kumbhakarna and Indrajit Rama. Your carnal passions and desires are going intervened, and prevented the duel. Trembling with to end your life". rage, Ravana shouted, "Even swines do not forget the hands that feed them and remain loyal to their Before Ravana could say anything, Prince master in the difficult times. You are worse than a Indrajit arose and said, "Uncle, you are a disgrace Far Personal & Prswine, for you have forgotten what I have doney for

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you. Go away. I do not want you and your advice." Bibhisana couldn't tolerate this insult. He left at once and decided to join Rama's side. When Sugriva and his warriors noticed Bibhisana, approaching them alongwith his army, they were disturbed and annoyed, for they thought that Bibhisana had come to fight, but vidyadhara Visala pacified them by saying - "Friends! we need not quail at the sight of Bibhisana, for he is the only ethical soul in the demon clan. He tried his best to avert the war, but Ravana humiliated him in a harsh language in front of the assembly and disowned him. He therefore, seeks refuge at the lotus feet of Rama." Bibhisana reached the place where Rama was seated and bowed at his feet. Rama embraced him and said, "Peace unto you Dharmatma Bibhisana." Bibhisana said, "O Rama! | have forsaken my unjust and unethical brother Ravana for ever and now, I am willing to be your humble servant." Rama said, "Greetings and welcome O Bibhisana, Your presence will definately strengthen my army. I promise you that you shall be coronated as the ruler of Lanka after we achieve the victory." Rama and his forces stayed at the island Hamsadvipa for a week, before reaching their destination- Lanka. Finally, they reached the outskirts of Lanka. Ravana too stepped out alongwith his army. 67 A fierce battle was fought between the two armies. Rama's commanders Nala, Nila and Hanumana killed three of the most important commanders of Ravana, respectively Hasta, Prahasta and Vajrodara. When Kumbhakarna and Sugriva entered the battlefield, Sugriva lifted kumbhakarna and hit him on the earth. Seeing the plight of mighty Kumbhakarna, Ravana hurried to the battlefield, but Indrajit requested him to wait, and attacked Sugriva. Meghavahana was fighting with Bhamandala. When Indrajit and Meghavahana came to know that they could not overcome even an ordinary soldier of Rama's army, they decided to use a weapon called Nagapasa on Sugriva and Bhamandala in order to capture them. When Rama came to know about this, he offered a prayer to the diety Mahalocana. Pleased with Rama's devotion, the diety Mahalocana gave him a pestel, a chariot and a power called Simhaninada. He gifted Laksmana with a chariot and Garudi vidya, that would break off the Nagapasa. Laksmana rushed towards Sugriva and Bhamandala alongwith the new vidya. The lasso of snakes that held the two commanders as captive disappeared. When the valiant Sugriva and Bhamandala were freed, there was an enormous uproar of joy in Rama's army. In this battle, Kumbhakarna, Indrajit and Meghavahana were held as captives. 21 Laksmana wounded When Ravana saw the best of his warriors you shall never win this war, for you are not shielded dying one after another, he himself came forward by virtue. I still request you to release Sita and hand to fight the foe. None of Rama's commander could her over to Rama with due honour. I am neither match Ravana in strength and skill. Soon they were scared of death, nor do I desire the throne. I deweary. Now, Rama decided to face Ravana but serted you because I wanted my reputation to reBibhisana urged him to tarry. He volunteered to face main unblemished in the ages to come. You are my Ravana's instead of Rama. When Ravana saw his brother, thus you are adorable to me. I do not deown blood ready to fight him, he said, "Coward Rama sire to be a mute spectator of my brother's assassicalls himself the progeny of the valiant Dasaratha, nation. Pray free Sita now, and I will leave Rama for and facing me on the battlefield strikes terror in his ever and join your side. I shall spend the rest of my timid heart, therefore, he sends you, a worthless life in your servitude. I desired to convey you this creature to fight with me. Your treason deserves a and nothing else". Ravana's conscience was blinded death sentence, but you happen to be my brother with fury. He rebuked Bibhisana in a harshest tone and though you do not deserve it, I still love you and plucking the string of his bow, attacked him. and care for you. My brave brother Kumbhakarna The earth began to tremble under their feet. Finally, and son Indrajit have been captured by the enemies. Ravana, with outstretched hand, meditated for a I can pierce the timid hearts of both Rama and moment, and a sakti named "Amoghavijaya was in Laksmana with only one arrow and when my task is his hands. Dharmendra had gifted it to Ravana. It was accomplished, I will rescue my brother and son." bright and fierce like a forest fire, surounded by in numerable flickering tongues of fire. Bibhisana replied, "Brother, you are mistaken. Rama, in fact, was very anxious to punish your im Once, Ravana was praying on Astapada tirtha. Unexpectedly, the pertinence, yet I requested him to wait, so that I string of his instrument vina broke down. At that time, he pulled out a might meet you once again and convince you to nerve from his hand and tied it to the vina. Pleased by his devotion, stop your futile attempts. No matter what you do.rsonal & Dharnendra diety gifted him with Amoghavijaya vidya.

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68 Ravana's duel with Laksmana The gigantic sakti, with her outstretched. hands, apeared as if she wanted to destroy the whole universe. Rama knew that though Bibhisana was an able warrior, he lacked the strength to endure the sakti. He told Laksmana, "Bibhisana, our trusted ally is being killed with Amoghavijaya. Rush to his side and help him." Laksmana stood in between Ravana and Bibhisana and challenged Ravana to fight with him. Ravana said, "I have summoned this sakti not for you, but for this traitor, who, with his shameful behaviour, has disgraced the clan and brought an ill fame to Lanka. If you desire to protect this worthless being by offering your life, then may your desire be fulfilled." Ravana infact was trying to scare Laksmana but inspite of Ravana's eloquance, he remained unchanged. Finally, Ravana released the sakti in the direction of Laksmana. Bhamandala, Sugriva, Nala, Nila and Hanumana, through their weapons and missiles, tried to overpower the sakti, but it hit Laksmana in the chest and he collapsed. Overwhelmed by anger, Rama attacked Ravana and deprived him of his chariot five times. Finally, Ravana thought, 'Laksmana can never be freed from the clutches of Amoghavijaya and will surely die before the sunrise, and griefstriken Rama would end his own life by committing a suicide. This will end the war, and victory will be mine. I must not waste my energy fighting any longer. While Ravana was thinking such, the Sun sets. The Aryans do not fight after sunset. Ravana, therefore retreated to Lanka. set. When he saw Laksmana lying on the earth motionless, he swooned. Sugriva and others sprinkled water on Rama's face. After a while, Rama gained his composure and began to lament. In Lanka, Sita received the sad news of Laksmana's plight. She too began to weep. A master of Avalokini vidya however assured her that Laksmana would be ready to fight by next morning. Bibhisana informed Rama, "A man, however strong he may be, remains alive only for a night, after he has encountered Amoghavijaya. Incantations of mystic syllables and other rituals may work as an antidote. In the meantime, one of the soldier pleaded a vidyadhara to have a look at Laksmana, who laid motionless. The Vidyadhara said, "Bharata's maternal uncle Dronamegha has a daughter named Visalya. She is a pious soul, who has practiced austere penances in her previous births. If the bathing water of pious Visalya is sprinkled on Laksmana, the cruelest Amoghavijaya will be forced to leave him. When Rama heard these words, he immediately ordered Bhamandala, Hanumana and Angada to reach Ayodhya first, and then leave for Kautukamangalapura of King Dronamegha, alongwith Bharata. Bhamandala, Hanumana and Angada left for Ayodhya. They met Bharata and told him what had transpired at the battlefield. Bharata immediately left with them to Kautukamangalapura. They requested King Dronamegha to send his daughter Princess Visalya with them. King Dronamegha remembered the prophery of a wiseman made long time back. It said that Princess Visalya will marry Laksmana, the son of King Dasaratha. He therefore allowed Visalya to accompany them. From Kautukamangalapura, they reached Ayodhya and leaving Bharata there, they headed straight to the army camp. Rama also returned to his camp after sunFor Personal & Private Use Only

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Visalya, healing Laksmana When the pious Visalya touched Laksmana, the sakti Amoghavijaya was terrorised. She hurriedly left Laksmana's person, and as she was fleeing away, Hanumana caught her. With folded hands, she pleaded, "I am the sister of Pragyapati Mahavidya. Dharmendra had handed me over to Ravana. I have no enemity against either Rama or Laksmana. When Ravana requested to strike Laksmana, I struck him. I would have certainly accomplished my task, had it not been for Visalya. I can't endure her power. There- fore, I have left Laksmana's person. Pray let me go away." Hanumana left her and she disappeared. Visalya touched Laksmana once again. Later on, Laksmana's wounds were annoited with the paste of sandalwood and other medicinal herbs. Laksmana arose as if he was in deep slumber. His wounds were healed. Rama embraced him and narrated the entire account of Visalya. The bathing water of pious Visalya was sprinkled on the entire army. Rama then asked Laksmana to accept the hand of Visalya. A solemn ceremony was performed where Laksmana married Visalya and other one thousand maidens. 22 Laksmana vanquishes his foe Next morning, when Ravana saw Laksmana Ravana. I am here to convey the missive of my masin the battlefield, he was aghast. He murmured," ter, which says, If you release my brother thought that we will be the victors, but with Laksmana Kumbhakarna and son Indrajit, and allow Sita to stay on the battlefield, I do not think that I will succeed in with me, I shall give you half of my empire and three freeing Kumbhakarna and Indrajit." Ravana's trusted hundred beautiful maidens". Rama said "I neither ministers approached him and said, "Master, now desire half of Ravana's empire, nor aspire for the we have been left with no option. Unless we release three hundred beautiful maidens. If your impertinent Sita and hand her over to Rama, the freedom of your master frees the sati Sita, I will immediately release valiant brother Kumbhakarna and son Indrajit would his warriors." The envoy said, "You cannot afford to remain a remote possibility. We think that you must defy my master, the mighty emperor Ravana. make peace with Rama, otherwise, the end of our Laksmana managed to remain alive inspite of being clan is inevitable." Ravana paid no heed to their attacked by Amoghavijaya because of sheer good advice and sent Samanta, his trusted envoy, to Rama. luck, but my master has innumerable sakti's, mightier than Amoghavijaya. Why are you unnecessarily sacSamanta bowed down before Rama and said, rificing your brother's life at the altar of the Lord of "Jam Samantanathe most trusted envoy of King Personal & death? Why are you inviting the wrath of Ravana for

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70 the sake of an ordinary mortal woman?" On hearing this, Laksmana was infuriated. He said, "Foolish envoy, your obstinate master does not know the strength of his enemy. The death hovering above him has made his senses so numb that he is uttering like a child. Go and convey him these words, 'O barbarian, woe to you and your clan. Come over and fight with me, if you have courage. O timid, has the valour of Rama and Laksmana striked so much terror in your heart that you are now eager to talk of peace. No matter what you do, you cannot elude the death that is hovering above you and your cursed domain." The envoy passed on this message to Ravana. After hearing it, he summoned the minsters. The wise minsters once again advised him to release Sita and warned him, "If you still insist on acting stubborn then death and devastation will be the reigning supreme in Lanka shortly." Depressed and desolate Ravana decided to perform austerities in order to appease Bahurupini vidya. He visited the temple of Lord Sri Santinatha. He prostrated before the holy icon and sang praises of the lord. Then, he sat on a stone gem with counting beads in his hand. Mandodari ordered Yama to proclaim a royal order throughout Lanka. The order said, "The king desires that counting from now, the citizens of Lanka will spend two days in worship and prayers. Those who break the royal command will be put to death." The spies of Sugriva brought this news to their master. Sugriva rushed over to Sri Rama and said, "My master, we can tackle Ravana as long as he does not obtain the Bahurupini vidya. If he succeeds in this penance, we will never be able to vanquish him. It is imperative to create obstacles in his penance." Rama replied, "Ravana is crooked by nature. He may create obstacles in the penance of others. I cannot do it and I would not do it." Ravana, penancing for Bahurupini When Rama refused to obstruct Ravana's penance, Angada and other warriors reached the se cret place, where Ravana was involved in the austere penance. By using magical spells, Angada had made himself and others invisible. On reaching his destination, Angada said, "Ravana, I can clearly see the terror of Rama that is visible in your eyes. You call yourself a devotee of Lord Santinatha and yet like a nonbeliever, you indulge into mystical rituals. I condemn you for your deplorable practice. You, like a coward, abducted Sita in Rama's absence. See, what am I doing to your wife." Saying this he began to drag Mandodari by pulling her hair. She began to lament and begged Ravana to rush for her rescue, but he was so engrossed in his worship that he did not even lift up his head.... Personal Prese

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71 Pleased with Ravana's undaunted devotion, Bahurupini vidya appeared in person; illuminating the night skies by her effulgence. She said, "I bless you my child Ravana. I am pleased with your devotion and perseverance. I can enchant the entire universe. Your foe Rama and Laksmana are insignificant non-entities before me!" With folded hands Ravana said, "Mother, I am aware of the enormous power that you possess. Yet, I venture to say that your help is not required now. When I remember you in the hour of peril, please rush and be by my side for help." "So be it" said the vidya and disappeared. I could have put an end to your existence in a minute. Yet, my love for you is so great that I am reluctant to take such drastic steps. Now, I have no alternative left. I shall first kill your worthless husband and then break my vow. I shall make you mine, against your will"..... when Sita heard this, she swooned, and regaining consciousness she said "Do as you desire Ravana, if you kill the valiant Rama and Laksmana, I shall fast unto death. I prefer painful death more than the luxuries of your palace." When Ravana heard this, his heart was filled with remorse. He thought, "What is impossible for Ravana, the conquerer of three lands? I can cultivate in a barren land, but cannot make this frail woman, love me. She is indeed a true Aryan woman! I have stooped to such lower depth to obtain her that people will detest me for ages. I have tarnished the fame of my forefathers. I shall however capture both Rama and Laksmana as prisoners of war and then hand over them Sita. I shall, by this action, be salvaging the honour and reputation of both, my ancestors and my clan. When he learnt about the humiliation of Mandodari, he said, "Who is Angada? Probably some worthless soldier of the idle Rama. Anyway, he will shortly be sacrificed at the altar of Yama, the god of death." Ravana finished his daily oblations and reaching to the Devaramana garden told Sita, "I have been very humble, honest and courteous to you all these days. You have humiliated me and the queen in the rudest way which amounts to treason. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Laksmana's duel with Ravana Next morning, Ravana witnessed many ominous signs that foretold a grim future for him, yet he entered the battlefield. Laksmana who was eagerly awaiting for his arrival, attacked him with vengeance. Laksmana's brilliant archery filled Ravana's heart with awe and shock. At this critical moment, he pleaded Bahurupini vidya to rush for his help. At once, innumerable Ravanas came rushing to Laksmana, wielding their weapons from east, west, north, South above and below. Laksmana mounted the eagle and flew all over the battlefield, defending himself and counterattacking Ravana. He incessantly showered arrows at Ravana. Seeing his valiant and indomitable spirit, Ravana's heart was filled with despair and despondency. Finally, he folded his hands and concentrated his mind on the Sudarsana disc, the emblem of Prativasudeva. Next moment, the great disc was in his hands. Ravana spinned the disc in order to give it a momentum and directed it towards Laksmana. The disc circumambulated reverently around Laksmana and rested in his right hand. Laksmana was a Vasudeva and therefore, the disc coudn't hurt him. Ravana now remembered the words of the seer. Bibhisana, once again approached him and pleaded, "Brother it is still not too late. Please promise Rama that you will release Sita now!". Ravana shouted angrily, "Go away you traitor, so what if the Sudarsana cakra fails ? I can still, with a mighty punch, kill Laksmana and win the war." Laksmana spinned the disc and hurled it at Ravana. The disc, with a fierce sound, hit Ravana and dismembered his chest. Like a huge tree, axed by a woodcutter, Ravana fell on the earth and breathed his last. There was an uproar of victory in Rama's army. The dieties, from their lofty abodes, showered flowers on Laksmana. Ravana's soul left the body and reached the fourth hell. LIP SONI. 8/19 For Personal & Private Use Only www.ainelibrary.org

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74 23 When Bibhisana saw his brother falling on the earth and gasping, he was overcome by grief and remorse, he wanted to end his own life but Rama grabbed the dagger which he was about to plunge in his own heart. Rama and Laksmana then escorted lamenting Bibhisana and Mandodari to Ravana. They consoled Bibhisana saying, "War is the dharma for a Ksatriya. Your brother was a true Ksatriya. He never avoided war. He fought like a true warrior and died like one. He embraced death on the battlefield. Kumbhakarna becomes an ascetic When two Ksatriyas fight, the victory of one and death of another is inevitable. The one who wins the battle, receives the adulation of mortal men, but the one who dies in the battlefield, receives the adulation and applause of the warriors. The dieties will remember and praise the valour of your brother. Now, let us perform his funerary rites and the rituals that will follow the funeral." He then released Kumbhakarna, Indrajit and the other warriors. unconsolably, Weeping Bibhisana, Kumbhakarna and Indrajit applied Gosirsa sandalwood paste and camphor paste to the mortal remains of Ravana. After elaborate rituals, Ravana's body was consigned to the fire. More rituals followed the funeral. Rama addressed Bibhisana, Kumbhakarna, Indrajit and Meghavahana, "We fought this battle to free Sita. I do not desire money and power. I do not wish to annex Lanka to the empire of Bharata. I return you the land and everything that the victory has conferred upon me." Kumbhakarna and Mandodari replied, "War and death are the inseparable aspects of Ksatriyas life. Yet, the death of a near and dear person has shattered our souls. Life is ephemeral, death is inevitable, only salvation is eternal. We do not desire the power, pleasures and pomp. We want to be ascetics and strive for emancipation." The hectic pace of modern times has made us so insensitive that although we encounter and dodge death in our daily life, we do not stop and give a thought to it. Everyday, we hear or read about the sad demise of some very well known, little known, or totally unknown persons, yet we do not realise that what has transpired with someone today, is bound to be our fate sometime in the future. Our scriptures say, "The body and its existence is ephemeral, the power and wealth are not the true friends of a soul. The death is nearing us every minute but we must not let these or P uncertanities dishearten us, and attempt to ac quire dharma and virtue. The best way of acquiring virtue is to embrace the ascetic life." Most of us consider life after death a mere hogwash. We believe that we are born only once, and must enjoy the life thoroughly. This is what the media preaches. Earthquakes, floods, accidents, bombs that bring away unprecedented devastation are discussed with relish at the dining tables. We mutter a few words of sympathy for them. We send in money medicines, and discarded clothes to help them. If we are atheist, we pray for their souls but our compliance or probably timidity does not make us think about our death. Kumbhakarna, Indrajit, Meghavahana and Mandodari belonged to the demonic clan and yet, the death of Ravana helped them reach the loftiest realms. They were indeed noble souls. We call ourselves human being and yet, we are ruled by the sensual pleasures. We see the great cosmic dance of death everyday on televisions, read about it in the newspaper and yet, we embrace the ephemeral and ignore the eternal........ www.jaine

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Kumbhakarna and others embrace an ascetic life When the dual nature of the world is understood by a person, he seeks solace in only ascetic life, and the merciful providence never lets him down. Kumbhakarna and the others realised the transitory nature of the world. They were eagerly waiting for the arrival of some lofty soul, who would lead them to the eternal path, and their virtue brought Muni Aprameyabala in the garden called Kusumayudha. The sage had mastered on the four branches of knowledge. He received the ultimate kevalagyana during his sojourn at the Kusumayudha garden. The dieties descended to celebrate the joyous occasion. Rama, Laksmana, Kumbhakarna and others rushed to pay their respects to the sage. Indrajit and Meghavahana were so impressed by the knowledge and the oratory of the sage that they asked him questions related to their former lives. When they heard, how their souls had travellled from one body to another since ages, they reached the summit of disgust. Finally, Kumbhakarna, Indrajit, Meghavahana and Mandodari embraced the ascetic life. Rama enters Lanka King Simhodara and others, who had promised to give their daughters to Laksmana, reached Lanka with their retinue. Laksmana was married to those Princesses. Indrajit and Meghavahana, who had embraced the austere life of mendicants, performed rigorous penance and ultimately found emancipation at Vindhyacala. This place later on became famous as Megharatha. The sage Kumbhakarna found emancipation on the banks of river Narmada. This place became famous as Prstaraksita. Rama, Laksmana and the commanders ceremoniously entered Lanka. They received a spontaneous welcome from the citizens of Lanka. They straightaway rushed to the Devaramana garden and met Sita, who was eagerly waiting for their arrival. Laksmana, Sugriva and Hanumana bowed down to Sita. From there, they rushed to the palatial temple of Lord Santinatha. Bibhisana had already made arranagements for an elaborate puja. Best of the flowers, fruits and sweets were arranged at the altar. Saffron, sandalwood paste and uncooked rice was placed in the golden bowls. Fragrant insenses and exotic lamps added an enigmatic touch to the sanctum sanctorium. Rama, Laksmana, Sita and others performed a elaborate pujana. From the temple, they went to the royal court. Pointing at the exquisite throne, Bibhisana said, "Lanka, the island which belonged to the demonic clan, is now yours. Pray, ascend this throne and take what is rightfully yours. I would prefer to be a soldier in your army. I appeal you as a citizen of Lanka and as a sole survivor of the royal family." Rama said, "Have you forgotten what I promised you when you joined my side. I had promised you that the throne of Lanka will be yours after our victory. I think your selfless devotion towards me has inspired you to speak thus, but I shall not rest until your coronation." Rama summoned the high priests and selected an auspicious day for the coronation. After the grand coronation, they went to the palace of Ravana. At Ayodhya, Kausalya and Sumitra were very tense and worried because they hadn't received any news of Rama, Laksmana and Sita. One day, Sage Narada arrived Ayodhya. When he met Kausalya and Sumitra, he asked them the reason of their worries. They told him the entire account beginning from the departing of Rama to the Visalya's journey to Lanka. They were aware that a great battle was being fought between Rama - Laksmana on one side and the demon king Ravana on the other side, but they didn't knew whether Rama and Laksmana were dead or alive. They were unaware whether the battle was over yet. They knew about Ravana's strength and his mastery over magic and withcraft, but they did not know whether Rama and Laksmana could endure the wrath of Ravana. When the Sage Narada heard about the plight of Kausalya and Sumitra, he promised them that he would visit Lanka personally, and bring Rama, Laksmana and Sita back. For preaves of Waldrajit and Meghavahana, refer appendix-6 dechavahana refer annendiy. For Personal & Private Use Only For

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76 Wernet Eu QO101011 fer KOCHA Y COCI WO:ICOGS ILIP so For Personal & Private Use Only www.aerary.org

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Naradaji's arrival at Lanka 031 IoTOOOO Rama, Laksmana and Sita spent six happy years at Lanka. When the sage Narada arrived at the court of King Bibhisana, Rama and Laksmana personally welcomed him. Narada revealed to them that their mothers Kausalya and Sumitra were worried about them. When Rama heard this, he said, "O great king Bibhisana, your devotion and hospitality indeed lured us to such an extent that we have stayed here for six long years, enjoying the luxurious life, while our mothers were spending sleepless nights. I hope the pangs of separation do not end their lives, before we meet them. O king, pray, do not think that your hospitality had any flaws that made us think of Ayodhya, but we must leave. Kindly grant us the permission." vizpont Bibhisana said, "Rama, when you leave, we will once again be subjected to darkness and despair yet, I would not like you to prolong your stay, for I am aware of the pangs experienced by mother Kausalya and Sumitra. Yet, I beseech you to extend your sojourn here for sixteen days more. My sculptors and artists, till then, will transform Ayodhya into Alkanagari of Kubera. Pray, stay here for another sixteen days, it will also prepare us to live without you, your esteemed brother and consort Sita." The sage Narada hurried Ayodhya and informed everyone that Sri Rama will shortly be arriving with Laksmana and Sita. The joy of Kausalya and Sumitra knew no bounds, when they heard this. In the meantime, the artisans from Lanka reached Ayodhya and within sixteen days, transformed Ayodhya into the domain of Kubera, Alkapuri. For Personal & Private Use Only

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78 (DO The trio's arrival at Ayodhya On the sixteenth day, Rama, Laksmana and Sita mounted Puspaka, the aircraft and left for Ayodhya. King Bibhisana and all the citizens of Lanka had gathered to bid them farewell. At Ayodhya, Bharata and Satrughna mounted elephants and left to receive Rama, Laksmana and Sita. When they saw Puspaka at the horizon, they descended the elephants and walked bare feet. When Rama saw Bharata and Satrughna, he too descended from the aircraft. Bharata and Satrughna fell on Rama's feet and wept uncontrolably. Rama embraced them and offered them seats in the aircraft. The artists played enchanting music in the lofty skies as well as on the earth. Ayodhya was reverberating with the beatings of drums, gongs and cymbals. Rama, Laksmana and Sita greeted the people, who had stormed to receive them with folded hands, and rushed to the palace. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Rama and others pay homage to their mothers Rama, Laksmana and Sita prostrated at the feet of Kausalya, Sumitra, Suprabha and Kaikeyi. Visalya and the other girls touched the feet of their mothers-in-law. The mothers-in-law blessed them and wept for a while. No one could speak a word. Then, Kausalya praised Laksmana, for forsaking the pleasures and serving Rama and Sita. Laksmana praised Rama and Sita, who loved him like their own child. Laksmana rebuked himself for killing Sambuka accidently. SAW 4 767077 Ban Fang www TO A 79 He said that, his curiousity to grab the Candrahasa sword led to the death of Sambuka, which subsequently unfolded a new drama. By the blessings of God, guru and mothers, they finally vanquished Ravana and returned to Ayodhya. Bharata arranged festivities in honour of the virtuous trio. ONO 96

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80 25 Bharata and Kaikeyi embraces ascetic life One day, Bharata approached Rama and said, "I desired to be a mendicant and seek the salvation and yet, our virtuous father and you ordered me to rule Ayodhya. By the grace of God and your blessings, I endeavored to rule this empire to the best of my abilities, but now, I am fed up of the materialistic world, and wish to hand over to you, what is rightfully yours. I beseech you to ascend the throne and accept the crown and the scepter, so that I would be free to renounce the world and live the simple life of an ascetic." Bharata's aquatic sports with the royal women When Bharata heard this, he was ready to leave, but Sita, Visalya and the other women from the harem urged him to join them in acquatic sports. The women did this to divert Bharata's mind from his decision. Though Bharata wasn't interested, he agreed to join the royal women in their aquatic sports. When Rama heard this, his eyes were full with tears. He said, "Bharata, my beloved brother, do you think that the desire to be the ruler has brought me back to Ayodhya ? I am here to be with my mothers and you. Bharat! if you renounce the throne and the world, you are renouncing us as well. We have met after such a prolonged period of separation and now you wish to leave us ? How will we survive if you leave us ? Previously, you had accepted the scepter to honour my word. I command you again to take care of this empire." Having completed the sport, he was standing at the banks of the lake. An elephant named Bhuvanalamkara reached there. Sweet smelling nectar oozed from his forehead, which made him restless. To everyone's surprise, the restless and aggressive elephant calmed down when he saw Bharata. In the meantime, Sage Desabhusana and Sage Kulabhusana arrived there, who possesed kevalagyana. Rama rushed in order to receive them. He asked, "Why this aggressive elephant became totally docile when he saw my brother Bharata ?" The Muni explained how the elephant was associated with Bharata since many lives. On seeing Bharata, the elephant remembered his previous lives and thus became docile. When Bharata heard the account of his former lives, he became more detached and Rama granted him the permission to take the vows of initiation MR indication International For Personal & Private Use Only For previous-births, refer Appendix-7

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Rus FOOD OPE Bharata and Kaikeyi achive omniscience and salvation Many other kings expressed their wish to follow the footsteps of Bharata. Finally, alongwith other kings, Bharata accepted the vows of Diksa. Along with three crore sages, he attained salvation at Siddhagiri mahatirtha. His mother Kaikeyi too embraced the austere life of an ascetic. She practiced penance and other austerities and finally both of them achieved Kevalagyana and salvation. Many other Ramayanas also mention that Rama had many queens Refer Uttara Purana (68-47/48/49), Maha Purana (70-13) DILIP SONI -2936 For DILIP 81 26 Coronation of Laksmana, Sita abandoned After King Bharata renounced the world and accepted the vows, many noble kings and vidyadhars came over to Rama and urged him to handle over the responsibilities of the kingdom as a king, but Rama said, "The auspicious signs, that our mothers dreamt of, indicate that Laksmana will be a Vasudeva. It is therefore advisable that he be coronated as a king." Laksmana was coronated as a king on Rama's insistence. He was also declared to be the Vasudeva. Rama was declared as Baladeva. Vasudeva Laksmana handed over the Raksasadvipa to Bibhisana, Vanaradvipa to Sugriva, Patalalanka to Viradha and Hanupura to Pratisurya.. Bhamandala was handed over Rathanupura. Hanumana was given Sripura and finally, Satrughnal was given Mathura. Laksmana was married to sixteen thousand women. Visalya, Vanamala and four others were his favourite consorts. Rama had four consorts; viz. Sita, Prabhavati, Ratinibha and Sridama. Sita's Dream One night, Sita dreamt in the late hours of night that two eight legged animals descended the divine aircraft and entered into her womb, through the mouth. When she woke up, she vividly described the dream to Rama. He said, "Dear, your dream indicates that you are about to deliver two valiant warriors."

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82 Pregnant Sita became the dearest consort of Sri Rama. Therefore, the other queens burnt with jealousy. Jealousy is detrimental to friendship or any other human relation. It is the biggest obstacle in the path of the one, who seeks salvation. Jealousy separated Anjanasundari from her husband for twenty-two long years. Sita, sketching Ravana's feet One day, the co-wives asked Sita, "Was Ravana, who abducted you, a very handsome person ? Could you draw a picture of Ravana, so that our curiosity can be satisfied ?". Sita said, "I have never seen his face, therefore I can't draw the picture. I have seen only his feet." The co-wives said, "Then pray, make a picture of his feet, we are too eager to have a look at them." Sita was righteous, humble and was very simple person by nature. She never knew that the sly co-wives were hatching a conspiracy. At once, she ordered the maid to fetch colours and quills. While she was making a picture of Ravana's feet, Rama entered the harem. The cowives rushed towards him and said, "Look, your favourite consort has still not been able to forget Ravana. If you need an evidence, look at the picture of his feet, sketched by her." For Personal & Private Use Only www.ainelibrary.org

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When Rama saw the picture that Sita was making, he at once knew that it was actually a conspiracy. He did not rebuke her, nor did he change his attitude towards her. Her cowives, through their trusted maids, spread a rumour that Sita still loved Ravana. Such baseless rumours can be spreaded easily. Very soon, people were seen gossiping about Sita and her character. The Ramayana versions belonging to non-Jains refer a washer-man, who raised questions regarding Sita's character and her relations with Ravana. SES Rama and Sita in a garden When the spring arrived, Rama asked Sita to retire to a garden called Mahendraudyana. This garden was famous for its flora and fauna. Sita said that she desired to worship Arihanta Prabhu. Any desire expressed by a pregnant is related to the unborn child, for, it straight away affects the foetus. Rama ordered the gardeners to decorate the garden with exotic flowers and make adequate arrangements for puja. Sita performed an exquisite puja in accordance with the religious rules. Later, they watched the spring festival, where the citizen broke into spontaneous revelry along with the devotion to Arihanta Prabhu. When the royal couple was watching the Vasanta-festive, suddenly, Sita's right eyelid began to twitch and flicker. She indicated this to Rama. He said, " This sign indicates ill luck that is about to befall on you." Sita said, "Haven't reattributed for all my sins during my separation from you and my stay at Lanka." What can be more ominous than your separation?" Rama said, "Do not get disheartened O Devi, joy and woes are the results of our deeds in the past. No matter what we are, we have to pay for all our deeds. Deeds of merit bring joy and evil doings bring woes. Pray, retire to your abode and spend your time in the worship and adoration of the Arihanta paramatma. Inauspicious karmas come to an end by worship and charity." Rama had a few trusted spies like Vijaya and Suradeva. Every evening, they would travel incognito through Ayodhya. They would keep Rama abreast with everything that transpired in the empire. A few days after the spring festival, both Vijaya and Suradeva came to visit Rama. They were trembling with fear and appeared disturbed. For Personal & Private Use Only

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84 Rama assured them that their life was safe, no matter whatever they told him. After much persuasion and coaxing, Vijaya said, "Lord, I have no words to report what the people are discussing at villages, hamlets and cities. Yet, since you have assured me the safety of my being, I must tell you everything. The people are raising questions regarding the moral aspect of devi Sita's character. They say Ravana had abducted devi Sita against her will. She stayed at Lanka for a prolonged period against her will. She might or might not have accepted Ravana's amourous proposals, but Ravana was a lewd person. Beautiful women were his weakness. Probably, he must have threatened her, enticed her, mentally tortured her, or physically forced her into accepting his love, or he might have simply imposed himself and had relation with her against her will, for desirous have no morals. The learned say, the character of a woman and luck of man may change any moment. Even the dieties, who master various branches of knowledge, cannot predict the character of woman and the future of a man. Their arguments have no grain of truth, but they are logical. Even a false comment, accepted at mass, appears to be true. This shoud'nt be ignored. and delt seriously, as it can malign the fame of Surya dynasty." When Rama heard this, his sorrow knew no bounds. He was about to lament, but a man of impeccable background does not express his emotions in public. In a very composed voice, he thanked the spies and asked them to retire. When the spy Vijaya left, Rama thought, "Woe to my birth and upbringing in the royal family. Though enormous powers are conferred on the kings, they are in fact ordinary menials, who serve the lowest of the subjects. A true devotee is scared of the wrath of a deity, a king likewise cannot afford to offend the feelings of his subjects. Sita is loyal to me. She is a sati and has no blemish, yet she is bringing me illrepute. I can endure it on personal level, but how can I tarnish the name of Surya dynasty?" Rama, spying in disguise One night, Rama left the palace, disguised as a commaner, so that he could hear the gossip of the people. He heard a group of people questioning the character of Sita. They were saying, "A frail women can be forcibly abducted by a strong man, how can we believe that Ravana would have controled himself for so long and retain the purity of Sita? Surely, Ravana must have forced Sita to have relations with him and look at Rama, he still hasn't left her. He is indeed blinded by her beauty and does not care for the glory of Surya dynasty. A member of royal family cannot just ignore the public opinion, shame to Rama." When Rama heard this, his heart was filled with gloom and dispair. He returned to the palace and dispatched the spies for their routine rounds. For Personal & Private Use Only

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85 rulers. I am left with no alternative except renouncing Sita." Saying this, he sent for general Krtantavadana. 2 The spies again returned to the palace in the late hours of night, but when they reached Rama's sanctum, they found that King Laksmana was also present there. When Laksmana heard about the public opinion, he was annoyed. Trembling with wrath, he shouted, "For anyone who dares to question the purity of mother Sita, I am Yamaraj, the God of death. I shall step out and cut those wagging tongues." Rama said, "Dear brother, muds linging on Sita's character is a frequent event in our empire. The spies have time to time informed me about this occurance. I have myself stepped out in disguise and heard people not only criticizing Sita, but also hurling abuses at me as well. It is time to denounce Sita. For a man of our upbringing, nothing is more valuable than the family reputation. Morever, the surgeons prescribe amputation of a limb etc when the gangrene sets in. Sita is an inseparable part of my being, but her presence is poisoning my reputation. If I divorce her, I will be incomplete, imperfect, but I am forced to forsake Sita, to gaurd the fame of our dynasty. As it is said, when an event of total destruction arises, a wiseman saves on half and carries on his work. Total destruction is really imbearable. In fact, life without Sita is worse than death, but I will have to sacrifice my love and personal happiness at the altar of our family's name." Laksmana said, "Pray do not forsake Sita because the people find her moral character dubious. Common people are invariably double mouthed. Today, they are questioning her loyalty to you. Tomorrow, they will be heaping praises on her. What's more, don't you think that Sita is being punished for the offence she has never committed. Won't it be injustice? Sita is pregnant and you cannot forsake her at such a crucial time? Who will take care of her when you leave her? She is carrying the heir to the noblest dynasty on the earth. Her plight will cause unprecedented damage to the future of your progeny." Rama said, "I agree that the collective memory of the people is very weak, yet at present, the public opinion is against Sita and we cannot afford to ignore it. When people unite, they can topple mighty Laksmana, pleading at Rama's Feet Emotional Laksmana fell at his brother's feet and began to sob. He repeatedly said, "Sita is a Mahasati. Your action of renouncing Sita is not only inappropriate but also unethical." Rama did not pay heed to his pleas, but he did not give up. He repeatedly appealed his brother to let Sita live with him. Finally, Rama lost his temper and said, "Brother Laksmana, I desire that you do not discuss this topic with me anymore. I have heard enough, and remember, no matter what you say, you can't change my resolve." After hearing this, the crestfallen Laksmana covered his face with the upper cloth and dragged himself away with great difficulty. He was a king. He could have ordered Rama to change his decision, but he prefered not to argue with his elder brother. When the general Krtantavadana arrived, Rama said, "My able general, your ability and foresight has always brought us victory, but today | order you to perform a job which is unpleasant, unethical and yet essential. I am sure that you must have heard the libeous and slanderous accusations made by the citizens of Ayodhya against Sita. Though I know that there is no substance in them, I have still decided to forsake Sita, inorder to protect the reputation of Surya dynasty. You are aware that Sita is pregnant and she desires to worship Sammeta sikhara. I order you to be her charioteer. Leave the precincts of Ayodhya under the pretext of taking her for a pilgrimage. When you reach the dense forest, leave her alone and return." le, they can topp a r Personal & Private Use Only

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86 Sita collapsed Krtantavadana immediately rushed to Sita's sanctum and said, "Your husband and my master Rama has ordered me to escort you to Sammeta sikhara, for he knows that you are eager to visit this holy center of pilgrimage. He wants us to begin our journey right now." Sita believed it and mounted the chariot without asking any question. The nature, through the ominous signs, tried to warn Sita about the tragedy that was about to unfold, but for Sita, Rama words were the words of God and Rama's desire was the desire of God. She went ahead without any hesitation. The chariot crossed the precincts of Ayodhya and entered the forests. It covered a great distance and finally halted in a dense forest called Simhaninada. Krtantavadana descended from the chariot. His face was ashened. Tears were constantly flowing from his downcast eyes. When Sita noticed the pale countenance of the general, she asked, "General Krtantavadana, why have you stopped the chariot? Why is your face pale and eyes downcast?" Krtantavadana replied, "I am your servant, hence, I cannot humiliate you with either harsh words or behaviour, yet I am compelled to perform this unpleasant task. For a prolong period, you stayed at the abode of Ravana, whose weakness for women is world known. People in Ayodhya are making slanderous statements regarding your purity and character. Unfortunately, Rama has learnt about it through his spies. He pondered over this perilous situation and finally decided to forsake you. King Laksmana repeatedly urged him to change his decision but Rama remained adamant. Finally, he ordered me, an impure and lowly person, to perform this horrible task. I have been ordered by Rama to discard you in the thick forest and return. I shall be leaving you shortly. Pray, forgive me. You have done me no wrong and yet, I am ruining your happiness. The power of your virtue will keep you alive." When Sita heard his words, she swooned. The charioteer thought that the impact of the news he just delivered was too much for Sita to bear and therefore she gave up her life. He considered himself responsible for this tragedy and began to weep. After sometime, Sita regained her consciousness and began to lament and swooned once again. The cool forest breezes helped her to regain consciousness. She controlled herself and after a while, asked the general, "How far are we from Ayodhya ?" Krtantavadana replied, "Mother, your question is meaningless, for. even King Laksmana could not break the strong resolve of Rama. I think you can never return Ayodhya. We are now hundreds of miles away from Ayodhya. If you desire to convey any message to are neatlan Internal LIPS

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87 dering oneself to Arihanta Prabhu leads him to the ultimate emancipation. Convey my obeisance to my mothers-in-law, and my blessings to Laksmana and Satrughna - and O worthy general, I request you to return to Ayodhya. May your path be free from all obstacles and may your journey to salvation be smooth and troublefree." my lord Rama, speak it to me without any hesitation. I shall convey every word that you utter." Sita said, "When you reach Ayodhya, inform your master, if the gossiping of a few idle rumourmongers really unnerved you, why didn't you ask me to perform Agnidivya! When a woman's character becomes a debatable issue, she resort to Agnidivya. If you really cared for your dynasty, you should have ordered me to perform this ordeal! Did you desire that I spend rest of my life with a stigma attached to my name ? whatever has happened with me is my destiny, whatever that will happen to me will be my destiny. I have no alternative. I shall face it without grumbling. Lord ! you have forsaken me, believing the utter untruth spread by vicious minds, but pray, do not forsake the eternal Jain dharma, believing the falsehood spread by the false seers. Surren The general bowed down to Sita and returned to Ayodhya. He remembered the noble words of Sita, her serene countenance. Rama has been totally unjust to her and yet, she didn't utter a word of protest. In fact, she still cares for the spiritual wellbeing of Rama. Her message to Rama reflects the purity of her heart ! blessed indeed is she. Her name will be remembered and revered in the ages to come, said the general to himself. Sita at Pundarikapura King Vajrajangha's invitation to Sita The forest Simhaninada was so dense that it could fill even the hearts of brave warriors with terror. Sita was a woman. She had no weapon to protect herself. She was pregnant and belonged to a royal family, not accustomed to the forest life alone. Previously, Rama and Laksmana were constantly with her; now she was alone. Her life at Lanka was empty, yet she lived with the hope that Rama would one day release her. Now, she was all alone, forsaken, with no hope. She stumbled while walking and wept uncontrollably. "This is the result of my unauspicious deeds. I cannot and must not blame any one", she muttered. Suddenly, she stopped weeping when she saw some soldiers and royal guards. The men were shocked to see Sita all alone, unescorted. 'Who is this beautiful lady? Why is she alone? Why is she weeping? Is she a goddess or a yaksini, who resides in this forest? If she is a goddess, why is she lamenting like an ordinary mortal ?', they wondered, while they stood transfixed there. Suddenly, they heard the call of their master, the king. He too had heard the lamentations of Sita and guessed, this is the voice of a noble woman, totally loyal to her husband. She is pregnant and tormented by the burden of woe. dud www.jainen

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Rama repents 88 When the king came closer to Sita, she thought that he was a man of evil intentions. She took off her ornaments and threw them before the king. She misunderstood him to be either a thief or a man, desirous of molesting a woman, but the king assured her saying, "Sister, though you have never seen me earlier, pray, trust me. I do not want your ornaments, nor do I intend to molest you. Wear your ornaments and tell me who are you? Which heartless man has forsaken you in this dense forest? Your troubles are troubling me. Please, share your sorrows with me. I am your brother." Then the king's chief minister, Sumati addressed Sita, "Devi, my master's name is King Vajrajangha. He is the offspring of King Gajavahana and Queen Bandhudevi of Pundarikapura. My master is an ardent devotee of Jinesvara and treats women, married to other men, as his sisters. We had come to this impregnable forest to catch wild elephants. We have accomplished our task and were about to leave, that is when we heard your lamentations. We are eager to share your woes and trust us, no one will ever know anything that you tell us. Pray, believe us. Krtantavadana returns from the woods General Krtantavadana left Sita all by herself at the forest named Simhaninada and reached Ayodhya. He straightaway reached the palace and narrated Sita's las missive word by word. When Rama heard it, he began to lament. He said, "Woe to me! I being scared of some idlers have forsaken my true friend, Sita. I have left her to keep my foolish pride intact. Alas ! I have discarded a gem and embraced a pile of dust. How cruel was I to drive her out! She is innocent, she is pregnant..... I have treated her like a non living object and she never grumble even once. What's more, she cares for my salvation and asks me to remain loyal to the eternal truth. How did the thought of her abandonment come to my mind?" NUNUN Sita realized that her fears were baseless. She disclosed them everything. Both, the king and his minister wept when they heard Sita's story. Finally, the king said, "Devi, from now onwards you are my sister. Treat me as Bhamandala and pray, come over to my palace. Rama has discarded you to respect the public opinion and I am sure that after some days, he will realize his folly. He will then set out in your quest, and when he finds you, he will take you back to Ayodhya, but till then, I think you must stay at your brother's place. A women is safe either at her husband's home or brother's home. Have faith in me and come over to Pundarikapura. Stay at my palace till Rama beckons you to Ayodhya." He, then ordered for a sedan. Sita mounted it and went to Pundarikapura with King Vajrajangha. She had no qualms now. The king allotted her a special palace next to his and she spent her time in worship and penance. For Personal & Pulvate Use Only

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89 Laksmana said, "Sita loved you more than her ownself. How much she must have lamented, when she heard the cruel words of the general Krtantavadana. She could endure your separation last time because she had a hope that you would one day reach Lanka and release her, but now that you have forsaken her, she has no reason to live. By now, the pains of your separation must have taken away her life." Rama said, "I am sure that she is alive because of her virtue." Laksmana said, "In that case, I beg you to hurry... Please, take the general Krtantavadana and other vidyadhars along with you. Search through the forest extensively and bring her back, before she breathes her last. Rama immediately left along with the general and other vidyadhars. They combed the entire forest, yet did not get a single clue that proved whether Sita was alive or dead. So, they concluded that some animal of prey might have eaten her. Filled with despair and gloom, they returned to Ayodhya. Strangely, now the people began to criticize Rama. They said, "How cruel is Rama to discard his innocent wife. She is pregnant and yet, he abandoned her, and Sita ...... Sita did not even grumble a complain. She endured this gross injustice silently and wished Rama to be an ardent follower of lord Jinesvara. Blessed be the name of Sita, and woe to Rama." The public opinion is indeed like mrdanga, a percussian instrument used by Indian musicians. It is played from both sides. The public opinion, that so far denounced Sita, suddenly began to favour her and abhored Rama. Strange indeed are the ways of the world! 29 Lava and Kusa meet Rama Sita delivered twins at Pundarikapura. King Vajrajangha, Sita's brother in faith, celebrated this joyous occasion with such a pleasure and pomp that it left an everlasting impression in the hearts of the people. They said, "This celebration surpasses all other former celebrations, never before have we witnessed such a granduer and brilliance." The baby boys were named as Anangalava and Madanankusa. They later on became famous as Lava and Kusa. Sita and King Vajrajangha loved the babies more than their ownselves. The excellent nourishment, impeccable upbringing and a proper amount of love helped the babies grow day by day. Once, a layman named Siddhaputra reached the sanctum of Sita. He had been out for a pilgrimage of mount Meru with the help of Akasagamini vidya. He had reached Sita's abode traveling through the skies. Siddhaputra also was a master of Astanga Nimitta. He asked Sita some questions connected with her life at Mithila and Ayodhya. Sita narrated her story to him. He said, "Both your sons have auspicious marks on their bodies. They will surpass Rama and Laksmana in valour as well as intelligence. For Personal & Private Use Only ILIPSON 17.10-2000 HATAY

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90 Therefore, do not feel anxious about their future. Sita requested the layman Siddhaputra to stay at Pundarikapura and be a teacher of her sons. The layman agreed and soon under the gaurdianship of the worthy Siddhaputra, the two lads mastered different branches of knowledge and arts. When they stepped into puberty, King Vajrajangha and Queen Laksmivati offered their daughter princess Sasicula and thirty two girls to Lava. They said, "Here are the famous and seasoned warriors of impeccable backgrounds, running for their lives ! and guess, who has defeated them ? We, young and inexperienced lads of dubious backgrounds." King Prthu said, "Your valour bears the testimony of your noble background, blessed indeed is the dynasty that you are born in ! My friend Vajrajangha had really chosen an ideal life partner for my daughter, but I like a fool. insulted him and you. A virtuous daughter indeed marries a man like you. Pray, forgive my imprudence." With these words, King Pythu made peace with King Vajrajangha and got his daughter Kanakamalika engaged to Kusa. Duel of Lava and Kusa with King Prthu SES Naradaji's arrival While King Vajrajangha, King Psthu and other kings were seated in the former's tent, the divine sage Narada arrived there. King Vajrajangha asked him whether he knew anything about the dynasty to which Lava and Kuca belonged. The sage Narada narrated them their entire history related to the Surya dynasty. He then described the childhood of Rama, his bethrotal to Sita. The abduction of Sita, and finally her renouncement, in detail. King Vajrajangha then proposed King Prthu and Queen Amrtavati of Prthvipura to offer their daughter Princess Kanakamalika to Kusa, but King Prthu refused saying that he did not desire to offer his daughter to a man of dubious family background. Enraged by his reply, King Vajrajangha declared a war against him. However, the army of King Prthu was so powerful that King Vajrajangha's army could not face it and began to beat a hasty retreat. Then, the young Lava and Kusa entered the battlefield. Both young men attacked the enemy with such a vengeance that it was now King Prthu's turn to beat a hasty retreat. The young men Lava and Kusa laughed heartily and mocked them. For Personal & Private Use Only www. alban

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SEO When the young Lava and Kusa heard the narration of the divine sage, they thought, "If our father Rama really cared for the public opinion, he had many options other than forsaking mother Sita in wilderness, yet he did such a grave injustice. Why? What must have compelled him to take such a rash step?". Lava asked the divine sage with reverence, "O divine sage, could you tell us how far is Ayodhya from here, where our father and uncle lives ?" Narada said, "Ayodhya, your father's abode, is at the distance of sixty four yojanas." When the young man heard the sage's reply, they told Vajrajangha, "Uncle, we desire to meet our father Rama and uncle Laksmana. Could you grant us the permission to do so?" King Vajrajangha consented. A few days after this incident, a grand marriage ceremony was solemnized, where kusa and Kanakamalika tied the nupital knots. Lava and Kusa bows Sitaji and leave for Ayodhya In the return journey, Lava and Kusa defeated many kings and finally reached Pundarikapura along with the kings Psthu, Vajrajangha, Rusa, Lampaka and Kala. When they prostraded at the feet of Sita, she blessed them saying, "May both of you acquire the stature and valour of your father, the illustrious son of Dasaratha." Lava turned to Vajrajangha and said, "Uncle, you have already granted us the permission to visit Ayodhya. We desire to start our journey now. Pray, request King Rusa and King Lampaka to accompany us. We want a vast army that resembles the boundless ocean. For Personal & Private Use Only

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92 May the conches be blown. We want to witness the valour of the man, who renounced our mother, who has no blemish." When Sita heard this, her eyes were filled with tears. She said, "My young and inexperienced boys, you are not aware of your father's valour. You are inviting death by declaring a war against your own father. Your victory against King Prthu and some other insignificant kings have added to your vanity. Ravana was the master of Lanka, he had conquered the three lands and yet your uncle, with his disc Sudarsana, tore his chest, as if it was a old piece of cloth. If you really wish to meet your father and uncle, be modest. The ancestors should be revered like Gods. Courtesy and modesty to the forefathers bring in abundant blessings." Lava and Kusa replied, "O illustrious mother, you speak nothing, but truth, but do you expect us to meet our father like cowards ? We think, even he would feel ashamed, if we do so, and why do you worry about the result of the war ? Whether he wins or we win, ultimately it's the victory of our Surya dynasty." Having said this, they marched towards Ayodhya. Sita was weeping uncontrollably. 'If everything happens as Lava and Kusa have said, there is no reason to worry ...... but if God forbid, one of the four dies, how will I survive ?' she thought. Lava-Kusa seize Ayodhya Lava and Kusa reached the outskirts of Ayodhya and laid a sieze. (20 30 10 Dood TO PORUM 100 DUDUL The spies of King Laksmana observed this and informed their master, "Lord, two young men have surrounded Ayodhya along with their army. Their looks indicate their noble background and upbringing, but the question is, can these inexperienced young men endure your wrath ? Like a devastating forest fire, your valour will char their lives and wipe their names out forever. We think their end is now inevitable." Rama, Laksmana, Sugriva and other army officers accepted the challenge of the young warriors and stepped out 0,2 RON DUO B onel & Private ysOnly 9 before

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Rama-Laksmana's duel with Lava-Kusa The war commenced, but whenever either Rama or Laksmana tried to pierce the hearts of their young foe, they were overwhelmed by love and missed their aims. They could not handle Sect their own soldiers were struck with terror. When they heard the fierce sound that the strings emited, they began to run helter and skelter to save their lives. Finally, Laksmana hurled the Sudarsana disc at Lava, but circumambulating Lava, it returned to Laksmana. Rama and Laksmana were very tense when they watched their weapons. Their arrows did not reach the target, but the young warriors showered arrows on their army. Rama and Laksmana plucked the strings of Vajravarta and Arnavavarta bows, but 95 For Personal & Private Use Only DILIP SON 9: 2000 this strong phenomenon. They wondered, "Why are we witnessing strange things today? Aren't we Vasudeva and Baladeva, or are these young men new Vasudeva and Baladeva ? Does this mean that the illustrious Surya dynasty is about to meet its end ?" 93

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94 Arrival of Naradaji and greetings between Rama-Laksmana and Lava-Kusa Suddenly, the sage Narada, through aerial cess. This disc is bound to fail if you hurle it at path, reached the battlefield. When he noticed the your flesh and blood. Rejoice, for you have met gloomy faces of Rama and Laksmana, he asked, your own descendants after so many years, and "Why am I witnessing mourning instead of rejoic- whats more, they have defeated you. This is the ing? The scriptures say that a son should surpass time for celebration." his father in bravery and valour. These two lads that Rama experienced a mixed feeling of have cast a shadow of gloom on your countenance are in fact the progeny of illustrious Rama and sati shock, surprise, shame and joy. He stood transSita. They are Lava and Kusa. They have came to fixed for a while and then descended from his chariot and walked towards the young men prostate at your feet under the pretext of aggres alongwith Laksmana. When the young warriors nosion. Laksmana, you hurled the Sudarsana disc at ticed their father and uncle approaching, they too your own nephew, and what happened ? The failure of the Sudarsana disc is an ample testimony of descended from their chariots and walked towards them, bowing their heads. They fell at the feet of the fact that these young men are your own flesh Rama and Laksmana and anointed their feets with and blood. One of your ancestors, Bharata hurled tears. Rama and Laksmana gathered them in their this disc at his brother Bahubali, without any suc arms. For Personal & Private Use Only

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95 ever. You have not only saved the life of my beloved Sita, but also given a new life to the Surya dynasty." When Sita witnessed the valour of her sons and their subsequent reunion with Rama and Laksmana, she was overjoyed. She then left for Pundarikapura in the aircraft. Here, in the battlefield, Rama met King Vajrajangha for the first time. He embraced King Vajrajangha and repeatedly said, "For me, you are second Bhamandala. You have really taken the best care of my offsprings in my absence, and along with valour, you have also inculcated moral values in them. I shall be indebted to you for Then, Rama and Laksmana returned to Ayodhya with Lava and Kusa. By then, the news of Lava and Kusa had already spread in Ayodhya. People thronged to have a glimpse of their beloved little princes. Along with the Surya dynasty, the entire nation celebrated this occasion. People rejoiced and celebrated this joyous occasion for many days. 30 Sita' ordeal Laksmana, Sugriva, Bibhisana, Hanumana, Angad and others met Rama and said, "Sati Sita has been separated from you since quite some time and yet, she managed to survive in a strange land, only because of her two sons, Lava and Kusa. Now, since you have brought the children to Ayodhya, she might find life aimless and meaningless. The separation from both husband and children will result into her untimely demise. We therefore request you to grant us a permission to rush to Pundarikapura and bring her back, so that you can spend the rest of your life together." Rama said, "I know that the rumours against Sita's character are baseless. She is as pure as the holy river Ganga, yet I desire that before she rejoins me, she should face an ordeal called Agnidivya, in front of the citizens of Ayodhya. When the fire will testify that Sita has no blemish on her character, people will stop wagging their tongues, and then, we can stay together without any obstruction." Rama ordered Sugriva to erect a massive pandal on the outskirts of Ayodhya and sent him to Pundarikapura. Having bowed down before Sita, Sugriva said, "Mother, my Lord Rama has dispatched me to you because he too is tormented by your separation. He has therefore sent the Puspaka aircraft. But. before you reunite with your virtuous husband, he wants you to perform an Agnidivya, the ordeal that will prove your innocence. I therefore request you to board the aircraft, so that we may start our journey to Ayodhya." Sita said, "My lord has just managed to get over the tragic situation which my separation created. I do not desire to return to Ayodhya and give him more agonies. The people, who said that my character was dubious, would now say, look at Rama, he first deserted his wife and now he wants her to perform an ordeal." Sugriva said with reverence, "Rama is aware that you are purer than the purest woman. Yet, he is requesting you to face the ordeal, to convince the people that your character is above reproach. He does not want your name to be slandered when you return to Ayodhya. He wants to spend the rest of life with you without any trouble." Thus convinced by Sugriva, Sita agreed to return to Ayodhya with him. She mounted the aircraft and reached a garden named Mahendra, situated on the outskirts of Ayodhya. Laksmana and other kings requested her to stay at the palace but Sita firmly refused, saying that she would re-enter Ayodhya and the palace, only after the ordeal. Rama visited her and said, "Devi, people doubt that you have stayed at Lanka for a prolonged period. They do not care whether you lived there willingly or unwillingly. They know that Ravana had no scruples. They doubt whether Ravana had immoral relations with you, with or without your consent. I think you must perform an ordeal, which will end their doubts, once and for all." Sita laughed and said, "You are indeed a noble and intelligent soul, yet you exiled me without ascertaining whether I was really guilty. You didn't even give me a chance to prove my innocence. You have punished me without any investigation and after so many years, you are making me perform an ordeal ! This is marvelous ! I am an Aryawoman, How can I disrespect your order. You wish that perform an ordeal, now you decide the time and place. I shall face any ordeal that you choose for me." Rama said, "Dear Sita, I know you are a sati- the purest woman, yet I want to prove that the baseless allegations made by the people are wrong. Therefore, I wish you to perform an ordeal." For Personal & Private Use Only

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96 Sita said, "I am ready to perform all the five types of ordeals. I shall enter a pit of fire, consume the grains of rice that have been enchanted, run my tongue over the blade of a sword, climb a weighing scale or drink molten lead. You are free to select the ordeal for me." Everyone who was present there, including the sage Narada protested, "O Rama ? What has happened to your prudence? Why are you asking a Mahasati to perform an ordeal, when her innocence is proven beyond doubt?" Being enraged Rama replied, "O People! you have accused that Sita is a woman of no scruples. Your mudslinging, gossiping and accusations in Sita's case were so great that, though I knew whatever you said had no grain of truth in it, yet I was compelled to abandon her. Today you are proclaiming that she is innocent and tomorrow instigated by some miscreant, you might argue that she is guilty. I want your doubts to end once and for all, and the only way to do it is an ordeal." Sita enters the fire pit Rama ordered his men to dig a pit that was three hundred cubits in length and breadth, and two fathoms in depth. It was dug on the outskirts of the city and filled with sandalwood. After an elaborate puja, the sandalwood was lighted. Soon, the flames leapt up as if they were eager to embrace the skies. When Rama saw the effulgence, he became tense. Sita reached near the pit. She had bathed, and wore dazzling clothes and jewellery. Her serene countenance did not display a trace of fear. With folded hands she paid obeisance to the Panca Paramesthi and then said, "O Agni, O divine beings, the mighty kings and the people who are here to witness the ordeal hear, I Sita, the daughter of Janaka and consort of Rama, proclaim that if I have, through my body, mind and speech, longed for any man besides my husband Rama, while I was awake, asleep or dreaming, then O Agni! burn my body into ashes so that the people will tread on it, and if I am not guilty, turn this fierce fire into pleasant and soothing waters." Having said this, she fearlessly entered into the pit. Jain Education Interational For Personal & Private Use Only

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98 Sita, sitting on a lotus above the water and Lava - Kusa besides her. In a moment, the flames turned into coolest of waters. Fragrant lotus-lilies were seen floating on it. A gigantic lotus had opened, displaying a golden throne. Sita was seated on the throne. Her body glittered like molten gold. She was bedecked in exquisite finery, and resembled the goddess Laksmi. The waters sprung out of the pit and began to spread everywhere. Soon, the water engulfed the pandal and this reminded the people of the great deluge. PILIP Frightened Vidyadharas flew in the sky. People on earth were struck with terror and pleaded, "Mercy on us! O Mahasati Sita. Pray, do not let us drown !!" Sita arose and touched the water with her hands. The water turned back and returned into the pit. The pit now resembled a huge lake. Multitudes of swan and lotuses with dazzling hues were seen floating on the water. The dieties sang songs in the honour of Sita. They broke into dancing as well. They showered the divine flowers on her. People, including the divine sage Narada, were dancing with ecstacy. For Personal & Private Use Only

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Sita's renunciation "Blessed be your name O Mahasati Sita", shouted the elated mobs, but...... but Sita was engrossed in her own thoughts. Then, she spoke in a clear voice, " O Rama, the illustrious descendant of Dasaratha, inspite of being completely innocent, people tarnished my name, and you abandoned me in the dense forest. I blame neither the people nor you. I suffered at Lanka and then at the dense Simhaninada forest, but I do not blame Ravana or you. The fire that just now declared my purity is nothing compared to fire of your separation. The fire of seperation charred the innermost depths of my being twice. I know, this is the result of my own karmas. We are born, we commit karmas and suffer from them in the next births, and again and again we add to our karmas. How long will this vicious cycle go on ? I am fed of material life and resolved to accept the ascetic vows that will destroy all my karmas and lead me to salvation." Saying this, she uprooted her long hair and handovered them to Rama. For Personal & Private Use Only 99 Those who witnessed this solemn moment were reminded of the acceptance of asceticism of the great Tirthankaras. They too uproot all their hair and hand it over to Indra, the emperor of the celestial realms. The awestruck Rama found this too great to endure. He swooned, but before he regained conciousness, Sita had already reached the kevalagyani saint Jayabhusana. There, she took the oaths of renounciation and joined the order of a sadhvi named Suprabha, and practiced austerites and penance. When Rama regained his conciousness, he did not find Sita around.

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100 he screamed, "Where is Sita ? Why are you all standing like statues ? Why are you silent ? Don't you love and value your life ? Brother Laksmana! ask someone to fetch my bow and arrows. These mute imbeciles have no right to live. I am drowning in the ocean of sorrow and yet, none of these people are rushing for my rescue." karmas brought the defeat and death to my brother Ravana ? Why am I, Sugriva, Bhamandala, Sita, Hanumana and *Lava-Kusa so much attached to Rama?" In answer to this, the muni explained them their previous lives in details and finally told them the reason of their attachment to Rama. The soothing words of the sage moved their heart and filled it with serene peace. Krtantavadana, the general and charioteer of Rama's army, accepted the vows of renouncement. He practiced the austerities and penance, and after his death, was reborn as a diety in fifth celestial world. Sadhviji Sita practiced different types of penance for sixty years and met her death after a fast of thirty days. After her death, she was reborn as Acyutapati Indra in twelth celestial world. 31 Sensing the gravity of the situation, Laksmana pleaded, "My lord and master Rama! these people whom you desire to kill are not your enemies, but your trusted subjects and ministers. They are like your own progeny, hence you can't punish them for the mistakes that they have never commited. Being scared of the public censure, you abandoned Sita and thought you have done no wrong. How can you blame Sita, who being scared of the vicious cycle of life and death, has embraced an ascetic life? She plucked all her hair in your presence and left for penance under the aegis of the sage Jayabhusana. You must follow her, and when you see her, laud her decision. Till today, Sati Sita walked on the path of purity, now Sadhvi Sita will take steps on the path of salvation. Pray, hurry up to meet her." Hanumana on the path of salvation and Laksmana's death When Rama heard the soothing words of Laksmana, his heart was pacified. He said, "Sita, who was my wife, have become a mendicant, and I wholeheartedly support and laud her decision." Then he reached near the sage Jayabhusana and silently heard the sermon. He then asked him, "Am I a lofty soul or non-lofty, downtrodden soul ?" The sage replied, "Rama, you are a very lofty soul, who will achieve the salvation at the end of this life." Rama said, "Sita has realized the transitive nature of the world. She has realized that everything in this world is ephemeral, and therefore she has forsaken me, but I still have attachment for my brother Laksmana. How will I get over it?" The sage replied, "The virtue that earned you the title of Baladeva is not yet exhausted, when it gets over, you too will renounce the world and finally reach the salvation. Then, Bibhisana asked, "O enlighted soul, pray, tell us which For previous lives of Bibhisana Sugriva, Hanumana, Bhamandala and Sita, refer appendix-8 Jel For previous birtfils of Lava and Kusa, refer Appendix-9 For

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101 Hanumana attains disgust Once, Hanumana scaled the loftiest mountain Meru, to visit the temples dedicated to the tirthankaras. At the time of sunset, he began his return journey. He saw the luminous solar disc, gradually immersing in the sea, and the radiant sky, gradually turning into an ocean of darkness. He thought, every day, the sunrise, in a mute language, proclaims the advent of evening which is in offing. It proclaims that everything in the world is bound to an end and is transitory. Whatever is born, dies, whatever that is created, is bound to perish. People worship the rising sun. but the setting sun is all by himself, no one offers prayers to it. When I left for Lanka in the quest of Sita, I was in the prime of my life, ! was like a rising sun. By the grace of God, I am still strong and able, but by the time I reach the twilight years, I too will be like the setting sun ... all by myself, but before this happens, let me make some efforts to escape the transitory world and embrace the eternal. Only through renouncing the world and all its short living pleasures, one can reach the salvation." to everyone what Rama was thinking, and added, "Rama is a noble and lofty soul, who is certainly going to achieve salvation in this life, yet like other mortals, he is mocking the eternal path of salvation. Who can understand this enigma of Mohaniya karmas, which entice and enchant the heart and mind? The attachments are indeed strange! The reason for this strange behaviour of Rama is his deep attachment for Laksmana. This has hindered the awareness in his heart." The entire assembly of the celestial beings was awestruck when it heard this. Two of the dieties were especially moved, 'The deep love between two of the mortal beings is applauded by none other than Devendra, the emperor of dieties. In order to test this love, they descended the skies and reached Ayodhya. They reached the palace, and using their magical powers, created an illusion that depicted the death of Rama. Rama was seen lying motionless on his couch and the women in the harem were lamenting, "O Rama, why have you forsaken us? You freed the entire universe from fear, and why are you lying motionless? What has caused your untimely demise ?" Muni Hanumana's Vihara When he reached home, he at once handed over the empire to his heir and became an ascetic. Sri Dharmaratnacarya sage initiated him into a new realm and they began their Vihara-journey by walking barefoot. His entire harem accepted the vows. Hanumana, through meditation and non-action, vanquished both, the virtues and sins, and finally achieved the salvation. When the news of Hanumana's diksa reached Rama, he thought, Inspite of being endowed with every materialistic comfort and power, why did Hanumana embrace initiation, which give nothing but hardship and pain?' Indra, the emperor of the celestial worlds learnt about Rama's thoughts through avadhigyana-clairvoyance, that he possessed. He, as usual sitting in the assembly of the dieties, revealed by Personal Peale Use Only

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COS Bir 20 Maina imprudence caused his death ! Woe to us !", and thus rebuking themselves, they climbed the lofty skies and returned to their abodes. When the women in the harem noticed Laksmana lying motionless, they summoned the doctors, and when they declared that he was dead, they began to lament. When Rama heard the uproar, he came rushing to the sanctum of Laksmana and scolded the weeping women, "Why are you weeping ? What evil curse befell on you? which untoward incidence has made you let your hair loose and clap your foreheads? Look at me, am alive and my brother, sleeping on this couch, is also alive. Some evil malady or planet is troubling him, he will be alright by medications and prayers. Send for the doctors and astrologers at once." INTERIM DILIP Laksmana's death When Laksmana saw the women beating their foreheads and lamenting with their hair disheveled, his heart was filled with sorrow. How strange is the destiny of fate. My brother, whom I loved more than myself, is dead. Why did Yama, the lord of death, play this cruel prank on me?" While the gloom struck, Laksmana was thinking this. Suddenly, he gave up his ghost. When the dieties saw Laksmana lying motionless, they repented and said to each other, "Alas ! what have we done ? Laksmana, the noble and lofty soul, was a refuge to the entire world and we with our For Personal & Private Use Only wwwdlibre

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103 Rama feeding medicines to dead Laksmana The doctors, astrologers, seers and tantrikas were summoned. Laksmana was given medicinces and magical potions. Mantras were recited and pujas were performed, but all in vain, because, his soul had already deserted the body. When Rama realised that his dear brother wasn't waking up, he began to weep. Bibhisana, Sugriva and Satrughna rushed there. When they learnt about the tragedy, they too began to lament. Kausalya and the other mothers, Rama's daughters-in-law and the other women began to lament. While weeping, they swooned. The entire Ayodhya went into a mourning, For Personal & Private Use Only

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104 till: LavaKusa asks consent to renounce When Lava and Kusa saw the premature death of their uncle, they were disgusted. With folded hands, they requested Rama, "Illustrious father, everyone that is born has to die sometime or the other, yet no one knows when the death will strike. A man should always be prepared to leave this world any time. Seeing the tragic death of your brother and our uncle has created a feeling of detachment deep within us. We do not wish to stay in this world which offers little pleasures and boundless sorrows. We want to follow the footsteps of our mother. Kindly, grant us a consent to embrace the life of ascetics." When Rama granted them the consent, they left home and obtained the vows from the sage Amrtaghosa. The premature death of their uncle, created a deep feeling of detachment. The mortal remains of their uncle were still uncremated. The entire household was mourning and yet, when the intense desire of taking a step towards eternity arised in their hearts, they wasted not a minute. By means of the best tapas, they achieved the kevalagyana and finally attained salvation. For Personal & Private Use Only

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105 32 Rama moves through the forest with the corpse of Laksmana alone? Why do you desire to perform the funeral of a person who is alive? Go away and perform the funeral of your own brothers. My brother Laksmana will live a long life. Come on my brother, do not get annoyed with me for the folly of these imbeciles. Talk with me. You must not get angry like an indecent and lowborn person." Having said this, he lifted the mortal corpse of Laksmana on his shoulders and left. The sudden and unexpected death of Laksmana had a deep impact on Rama. He swooned and remained unconscious for hours, and when he regained conciousness, he lamented. His unwillingness to accept the fact that Laksmana was no more finally led to delirium. Rama began to address his brother as if he was alive. He would say, "Arise, O my brother Laksmana, my young sons, who should have shouldered the responsibility of administration with you, think that you are dead. They have left me and followed the footsteps of their mother. I feel lonely and therefore you must awake from this prolonged slumber ! get up! get up at once." Bibhisana would frequently hear this and feel disturbed. Once he said, "My lord Rama, you are braver than the bravest and more valiant than the most valiant, why are you not accepting the truth that King Laksmana is no more. Your timidity is repulsive and obnoxious. Come, let us perform the funeral of our beloved Laksmana." Hearing this, trembling with anger, he shouted, "Why don't you leave me and my brother Rama would bathe the body and anoint it with oil and sandalwood. He would himself serve meals to Laksmana, who was no more. He would embrace, kiss, change the clothes and rest near the body all the night. We must remember that the body of a vasudeva is made up of certain particular molecules and therefore the rigor mortis and decomposition does not set in for atleast six months after the death. In case of other mortals, the rigor mortis and decomposition starts within a few minutes. Jatayu's efforts to enlighten Rama Jain Education diternational The Only Aww.jainelibra

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106 Jatayu, who had been reborn as a diety in the fourth strata of the celestial world, saw Rama's plight and he descended on the earth in order to enlighten him. (1) He reached near Rama and began to water a dead tree. When Rama noticed his folly, he said, "Friend, no amount of water can bring this tree back to life. It will never ever bear leaves and fruits no matter what you do." (2) Then he spread fertile soil on the rock, added cowdung and other fertilizers to the soil and planted a sapling in the soil. When Rama saw him toiling, he said, "Friend ! you are wasting your time. The sapling will not remain alive on this rock, even if you spread the most fertile soil and fertilizer." (3) Later Jatayu poured some sand in a grind stone and be gan to grind it. Rama inquired, "Brother, what are you upto ?" He answered, "I am crushing the sand in order to obtain oil." Rama said, "Why are you wasting your time and energy? This is impossible, inspite of your sincere and unceased efforts." (4) At last he yoked an dead ox and began to plough the field. Seeing this, Rama said, "Dear man, how can one plough the field with an dead ox." When Jatayu heard this, he smiled and said, "You are an enlightened person, then why are you carrying this corpse on your shoulder. This corpse symbolizes ignorance." When Rama heard this, he was angry. He clasped the body of Laksmana close to his heart and shouted, "Why are you calling my brother a corpse? Can't you see he is alive and sleeping. Go away before I slay you!" you carrying the dead body of a man on your shoulder ?" Rama's general and charioteer Kotantavadana, who was reborn as a diety, learnt about Rama's plight through his Avadhigyana. He assumed a human form and appeared before him. He was carrying a dead body of a woman on his shoulders. When Rama saw him, he asked, "O foolish man! why, are you carrying a dead body on your shoulder ?" The diety answered, "Pray, do not talk such inauspicious words. Why are you calling my dear wife a dead body? and if you are aware that my wife is dead, why are This necessitated Rama to think seriously and finally, he accepted the truth that his brother Laksmana was no more. Jatayu and Krtantavadana again appeared before him and revealed their identity. Rama, then cremated the mortal remains of Laksmana and performed the funerary rituals. on International al Pal Use Only PILIP SON:

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33 Rama attains salvation Rama's renounciation Now, Rama too realized the transitive and unpredictable nature of the world. He decided to become an ascetic. He wanted to coronate his youngest brother Satrughna as the emperor of Ayodhya. But Satrughna said, "I am not interested in power and recognition. Pray, do not impose the burden of the crown on me. I want to take the ascetic vows with you, so that both of us can walk on the path of salvation together." Rama then coronated his grandson, the son of Lava, Anangadeva, as the emperor of Ayodhya. He then went to a descendant of the Tirthankara Munisuvrata Svami named Suvrata muni. Rama, Satrughna, Sugriva, Bibhisana and other sixteen thousand rulers gave up their comfortable life and took the vows of initiation. Along with them, thirty seven thousand women from noble families accepted the vows on this solemn occasion and stayed in the company of a nun named Srimati. in an international 107 When a noble soul renounces the world and walks on the path of renounciation, thousands of others become eager to follow him. At the noble feet of his teacher and mentor Suvrata Svami, Rama studied the Purvangasruta and practiced austerities. After performing many penances, Rama, who was now called Ramarsi, obtained a permission from his mentor and left for a deep forest. He made the jungle his abode and stayed there without a trace of fear and anxiety. Rama muni obtained the Avadhigyana during his sojourn in the forest. Once, Ramarsi entered a city in order to end his two day fast which is called chattha in religious terminology. When the citizen heard the news of Ramarsi's arrival, they were overjoyed. The men rushed to receive him at the gates. The women awaited his arrivals with eatables of various delicacies. There was a great commotion in the city. It scared some of the captive elephants. They broke their iron chains and ran amuck. Ramarsi did not accept food from any one. He had decided to end his fast with ujjhitaahara. The edibles which a man does not either desire to consume himself or keep at home is called ujjhitaahara. He straightaway For Persol & Private Use Only

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108 reached the palace of King Pratinandi, who served him the ujjhitaahara. The celestial beings showered gold and gems on the earth where Ramarsi received it. When Ramarsi returned to the forest, he thought that whenever I visit the city, there is a commotion. Therefore, he decided to move only in forest for collecting the gocari and end the fast. He himself began to neglect the body and practised meditation for hours standing in Kayotsarga position. Sometimes for a month, sometimes he fasted for two, three or four months, some times he would sit in a position called Paryankasana and meditate, sometimes he would sit in a position called utkatasana - the position of milking cows. Sometimes, he would raise both the hands while meditating, sometimes he stretched them horizontally and meditate. Sometimes, he would stand on his toes and meditate. Once, he travelled to Kotisila. He sat on the rock and with the help of Ksapaka Sreni, practiced sukla - meditation. Upasargas by Sitendra Avadhigyani Sita, who was now reborn as Acyutapati Sitendra, noticed the austerities of Rama and began to wonder. "In case Rama achieves kevalgyana he will be free from the cycle of birth, death and rebirth, and our reunion would not be possible. If I anyhow manage to draw him back to the material world, then our reunion would be feasible." Sitendra, using the mystical powers that he now possessed, turned the forest into a beautiful garden. Swaying to the breezes of spring, mango, campaka and jasmine trees displayed the best of their blossoms. The cuckoo's song enthralled the atmosphere. The fragrant and colourful flowers aroused love. Sitendra, acessed the form of Sita, dressed up in finery, and demurely stood in front of Ramarsi, accompanied by the damsels of Vidhyadhara clan. Sita said, "O Rama the master of my soul, now I am repenting the greatest folly of my life. I made the biggest blunder by refusing your love and becoming an ascetic. These Vidhyadhara damsels are craving for your love, and hope that you will abandon the ascetism and marry all of them. We will happily live together and play erotic games. Forgive me, for I ignored your love and became an ascetic." When Sita finished her talking, the vidhyadhara damsels played and sang erotic ragas and raginis. These rendering of the ragas filled the atmosphere with the fervor of love. PILIP SON For Personal & Private Use Only

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110 How dangerous indeed is the Mohaniya karma? The Acyutapati treats woes and joys, friends and foes equally. Sita, with her virtue, was reborn as Acyutendra and yet, spared no efforts to disturb Ramarsi's penance. The unabashed declaration of Sitendra's love and the provocative music did not stir Ramarsi a bit. Ramarsi attains kevalagyana Finally, on the twelth night of the waxing moon of the month Magha, Ramarsi achieved the kevalagyana. Sitendra and the other celestial beings celebrated the festival of kevalagyana. Two dieties stood at the left and right side of Rama with flywhisks. Ramarsi was made to sit on a golden throne. A parasol made of gold was held above his head. He began to preach his first sermon. At the end of the sermon, Sitendra asked him about the future lives of Laksmana, herself of and Ravana. Ramarsi then revealed their future vividly. 34 The future births of Laksmana, Sita and Ravana Ravana and Laksmana felt intense hatred for each other. They both would, in one life, endure the fruits of their evil actions and earn virtue. Ravana went to the fourth hell and Laksmana became a vaikriyasariri. Then, they would be reborn at the Vijayavati nagari situated in the eastern Mahavideha. Sunanda and Rohini would be their parents; and Ravana would be reborn as Jindasa and Laksmana would be reborn as Sudarsana. They both would be ardent followers of Jainism. This is the strange irony of karma. Two of the bitterest foes in one life would share the same womb. When they would die, they would be dieties in the first celestial world. This would be their third birth. During their fourth life, they would be reborn as human beings at the Vijayanagari and lead the life of a sravaka. From there, they would be born as two different individuals, not related to one another, in the Harivarsa land as yugalika persons, In the sixth life, they would be dieties. Then, they would be the offsprings of King Kumaravarta and Queen Laksmi at Vijayapuri. Their names would respectively be Jayakanta and Jayaprabha. They would follow the religion preached by the Jinesvara. After their deaths, they would be dieties in the Jain E sixth celestial world. For Personal & Private use www.jainelibraverg

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111 Sitendra then would leave the twelth celestial world and will be Sarvaratnamati cakravarti in the Bharata ksetra. Ravana and Laksmana would leave the sixth celestial world and will be his offsprings as Indrayudha and Megharatha respectively. Strange indeed are the ways of karma! Ravana, who had abducted Sita will be reborn as her son in his tenth reincarnation, and Laksmana, who slayed Ravana, would be born as his brother ! Cakravarti Sita's soul in this life would renounce the world and accept the order of ascetics. After death, it would reach a Anuttara devaloka named Vaijayanta. Indrayudha, the soul of Ravana will achieve five good births and be a Tirthankara. Sita would descend from Vaijayanta and become the first disciple i.e. ganadhara of Ravana. Finally, both of them will achieve salvation. Megharatha, the soul of Laksmana will achieve many auspicious forms after he finishes his life as the son of Sarvaratnamati cakravarti. Then, he would be Cakravarti at the Ratnacitra nagari, which is the crest jewel of Puskaravara island situated at end of Mahavideha. From there, after taking few good births and becoming a Tirthankara, he will achieve salvation. Kevalagyani Ramarsi continued to live as a nomadic ascetic for another twenty five years and after his demise, achieved salvation at Siddhagiri Mahatirtha, along with three crore Jain asectics. Friends ! Ramayana is a vast and boundless ocean. We have churned it and found some precious jewels which have been presented in this book. May the reading of this abridged version aspire you to make a detailed study of Ramayana. May it help you achieve the spiritual elavation. Read it, discuss it with your friends, relatives, and well wishers. This Lokottara Ramayana is the ocean of detachment and salvation. It preaches that even the worst of worst soul can achieve salvation, if he truly repents and endures the fruits of his action. A soul achieves salvation on the basis of his own endurance and efforts, which is known as Purusartha. Table Ravana Ravana Laksmana Sita 12h Heaven Vaikriya Sariri Sudarsana (Bros.) 1st Heaven Human being Yugalika Heaven Jayaprabha (Bros.) 6th Heaven Megharatha (Son) Many good Births Cakravarti Many good Births Tirthankara e n 4th Hell Jinadasa (Bros.) 1st Heaven Human being Yugalika Heaven Jayakanta (Bros.) 6th Heaven Indrayudha (Son) 5 good births Tirthankara Cakravarti (Father) Anuttara Ganadhara Jain Education Intern a or Person rary.org

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112 Appendix- 1 The foundation of Raksasa Vamsa Innumerable years ago, the first Tirthankara Sri Rsabhadeva ruled the earth. He created harmony in discord. People during this age were selfless and innocent. He was the pioneer of the Iksvaku dynasty, Bharata cakravarti was the progeny of Lord Sri Rsabhadeva. Adityayasa, the son of Bharata cakravarti is the founder of Surya dynasty. King Anaranya, Dasaratha, Rama and Laksmana were born in this dynasty. When Lord Rsabhadeva renounced the world and became an ascetic, two of his grandsons Nami and Vinami were absent. They frequently visited their grandfather, who now was an ascetic, and demanded land for themselves. Finally, diety Dharanendra summoned them both and handed them two ranges of the mountain vaitadhya. He also taught them many vidyas. Mount Vaitadhya divides the Bharata ksetra into two parts. King Vinami ruled the northern ranges of Vaitadhya and King Nami ruled its southern ranges. They were the founders of the Vidyadhara race. Innumerable rulers were born in these two dynasties. Some achieved salvation and some achieved goodhood. During the regime of Lord Sri Ajitanatha Svami, the second Tirthankara, King Purnaghana ruled Rathanupura, situated in the southern ranges of Vaitadhya, and King Sulocana ruled Gaganavallabha nagara in the northern ranges of Vaitadhya. King Purnaghana wanted his son prince Ghanavahana to marry princess Rupavati, the daughter of King Sulocana. Purnaghana, therefore sent a formal proposal to Sulocana, but the seers in the royal court advised the king to marry his daughter to Sagara cakravarti, the cousin of Lord Ajitanatha. He decided to follow the advice of his seers. This decision bruised the vanity of King Purnaghana. A fierce battle was fought between him and the King Sulocana. This was an aimless war. The wounded ego of King Purnaghana took away thousands of lives. Finally, King Sulocana was killed by his foe King Purnaghana. King Sulocana's progeny prince Sahasranayana and princess Rupavati managed to elude the enemies and take a shelter in the forest. They once met Sagara cakravarti in the forest. The young prince Sahasranayana gave his sister Princess Rupavati to Sagara cakravarti in marriage. Sagara cakravarti allotted him some land and coronated him as a king As days passed, King Sahasranayana became a powerful ruler. He declared a war against King Purnaghana and Prince Ghanavahana in order to avenge his father's death. In a fierce battle that ensued, King Purnaghana was killed. His son Ghanavahana seeked a refuge at the lotus feet of Sri Ajitanatha, who made him fearless. King Sahasranayana too gave up his pride and reached the feet of Lord Ajitanatha. They both learned about their past lives in the sermon delivered by the Lord. Ghanavahana praised the Lord. Raksasa, the emperor of a clan of Vyantara Deva said to Ghanavahana, "You have made an excellent achievement by seeking a refuge at the lotus feet of Lord Ajitanatha Svami. I request you not to return to your original kingdom situated in the southern ranges of the mount Vaitadhya. Instead, visit the Raksasa island and rule there." He then taught many vidyas to Ghanavahana and gave him a mystic garland protected by dieties, for, Vyantarendra considered Ghanavahana his brother in faith. Thus, Ghanavahana became the ruler of Lanka in Raksasa Island. His wife Suprabha delivered a son, who was named Maharaksasa. Once, King Ghanavahana went to pay obeisance to Sri Ajitanatha Svami and hearing his sermon, he wondered, "Oh! I have became a slave of my senses. The love of a woman has shackled me! I am sinking deeper and deeper in the swamp which is called power! I am deceiving none but my soul. The life is an illusion. How can I trust my body that will perish any day, any time ? Thus, when I cannot trust my ownself, how can I trust others ? Can the unlimited political power, my family conferred in me, prevent the evil things that the future has in offing ? Why should not give up everything that is shortlived and embrace the eternal." Thus, overcome by dutachment, he coronated his son Maharaksasa as the king and then went to Lord Sri Ajitanatha Svami. He made a great progress in realms of spiritualism and finally achieved moksa. The inhabitants of Raksasa island became famous as Raksasas. These people were not ugly or hideous, nor were they carnivorous or cannibals. They were human-beings belonging to the category of vidyadhars. King Ghanavahana was the pioneer of this race. Innumerable illustrious kings were born in this race. During the regime of Munisuvrata Svami, Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Bibhisana were born. Their father's name was King Ratnasravasa. ucation International For Pers w 6 al Use Only www.jainel

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Appendix-2 Previous Births of Candragati, Bhamandala etc In Ksetrapur, Sagaradatta had a son Gunadhara and a daughter Gunavati. Gunavati died without marring and became a Gazel in her next life. Gunadhara was born as deer. After many births, the soul of Gunavati was born as Sarasa. Gunadhara's soul was also born as Atibhuti, a male child of a brahmin Vasubhuti and his wife Anukosa at Darugama, which is situated in Bharata. Atibhuti married Sarasa. A Brahmin named Kayana took a fancy for Sarasa and abducted her. When a person becomes a victim of carnal desire, he does anything prohibited by the religious tenets. Sarasa's husband Atibhuti, accompanied by his parents, went to the jungle in quest of his wife. Vasubhuti and Anukosa met a sage in the jungle. They learnt the finest naunces of religion through the sage and became ascetics. After death, according to Paumacariyam, they became dieties in the Lokantika, whereas Trisasthisalaka Purusa caritra says they both became dieties in the first celestial world and after many births, Vasubhuti's soul became King Candragati and Anukosa's soul became Queen Puspavati. Sarasa, the abducted wife of Atibhuti, too, learnt about the true dharma through a sadhviji and she too became an ascetic. After her demise, she was born as a devi in the second celestial world. From there, she was born as Vegavati, daughter of Purohita Sribhuti. Once, she made a false acusation of Sudarsana Muni and later accepted the life of an ascetic. After her death, she was born in fifth celestial world and then was born as Sita. Sarasa's husband Atibhuti was frustrated, when he could not find her. His unhappy life and unhappy death made him a swan in his next life. Once, this swan was badly wounded by a ferocious kite. He fell at the feet of an ascetic, bleeding profusely. The compassionate sadhu recited the Namaskara mahamantra, so that the wounded bird would die peacefully. The virtue of listening to the Namaskara mahamantra on the deathbed made the swan, who was the soul of Atibhuti, a Vyantara deva with a life span of ten thousand years. When he completed his life as a Vyantara deva, he was reborn as Prince Kundalamandita of Vidagdhanagara. Kayana, who used to cast a covetous eye on other o international Pingala diety Kayana Many birth Pingalarsi Pingala diety women, after his many births, was born as Pingala, the priest of King Cakradhvaja Atisundari, the daughter of King Cakradhvaja, and Pingala both used to study together. Kayana's soul changed many forms, but it was still unscruplous. He developed a fancy for the princess Atisundari, and abducted her and brought her to Vidagdhanagara. This shows that an unrepentant soul remains unchanged inspite of thousands of births. In the past birth, the evil Kayana had abducted Sarasa and in this birth, the evil Pingala abducted Princess Atisundari. He made the forest his permanent abode. He would sell grass and wood in order to make his living. Once, prince Kundalamandita noticed Atisundari and both fell in love at first sight. In the past birth, Pingala abducted Kundalamandita's wife. Hence, in this birth, his wife Atisundari was abducted by Kundalamandita and the score was equalized. But he was afraid of his father, therefore they shifted to Durgadesa and began a new life. Pingala, like a lunatic, roamed everywhere in quest of Atisundari. One day, by same virtue, he met Muni Guptasuris'varaji and became an ascetic. Pingalarsi then became Pingala diety. Kundalamandita looted near the percincts of Ayodhya, which was then ruled by Dasaratha. Once, he was caught by King Balacandra and brought to the court of King Dasaratha. King Dasaratha was enraged when he saw him, but he somehow regained his composure and released him. Kundalamandita returned to the jungle. Once, he met Municandra muni in the jungle. The counselling of the muni brought him the infold of sravaka dharma. After his death, he was born as Bhamandala, the son of King Janaka and Queen Videha. When Janakas wife Queen Videha delivered the twins, Pingala learnt about it through his Avadhigyana and was enraged. He abducted the baby boy in order to kill him, but this time, his conscience weakened his vengence and he left the baby at the Nandana garden. We have noticed the irony of karma. Atibhuti and Sarasa were husband and wife in one life, and when Atibhuti was reborn as Bhamandala, Sarasa became his sister Sita. Bhamandala Gunadhara (Brother) Deer Many birth Atibhuti (Son) Many birth Table Sita Gunavati (Sister) gazel Many birth Sarasa (Son's wife) 2nd Heaven Swan Vyantara deva Kundalamandita Bhamandala (Brother) For Psonal & Private Use Only Vegavati 5th Heaven. Sita (Sister) Candragati Vasubhuti (Father) Lokantika deva/ or 1st heaven. Many births Candragati (King) Puspavati Anukosa (Mother) Lokantika deva/ or 1st heaven. Many births 113 Puspavati (Queen)

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114 Appendix-3 Previous Births of Dasaratha, Muni Satyabhuti and King Janaka Bhavana, a trader, lived in Senapuranagara with his wife Dipika. They had a daughter named Upasti. She hated the ascetics. This sin made her life miserable, and after her death, she was born in different species of animal life many times. Then, she was born at Candrapuranagara as Varuna. Varuna was very generous to the ascetics and treated them with reverence. In his past births, this very soul hated ascetics, but when his sins were cleansed, became their ardent devotee. A generous person is born as a great man in his next birth. When Varuna died, he was born as a yugalika man at the Uttarakuru, situated in the Ghataki khanda. Being a soul of minimum sins, when the yugalika Varuna died, he was reborn as a diety. After living a very long life in the celestial world, he was born as Prince Nandivardhana, the son of King Nandighosa of Puskalavijaya. His father King Nandighosa coronated him and accepted the ascetic life. After completing his life as a diety in the celestial world called Graiveyaka, he was born as Muni Satyabhuti. Nandivardhana was a faithful follower of Sravaka dharma. He became a diety in the fifth celestial world after his death. From there, he was born as Prince Suryanjaya, the son of King Ratnamali of Sasipura nagara, situated in the northern ranges of the mount Vaitadhya. Once, King Ratnamali declared a war with the proud ruler of Simhapura. On reaching there, he tried to put the entire city ablaze by using his Agneya Vidya. Suddenly, a diety from the eighth celestial world appeared before him and said, "Do not do this.... pray refrain... do not King Kanaka Upamanyu (Priest) Elephant Arisudana (Son) 8th Heaven. Kanaka (Brother) King Janaka TABLE King Bhurinandana (Father) Python. 2nd Hell Ratnamali (Father) 7th Heaven Janaka (Brother) commit such a rash and thoughtless action, for you shall reap its harvest in the next life. In one of your past lives, you were King Bhurinandana. I was then your priest and my name was Upamanyu. Once, you pledged that you will give up the habit of consuming meat. I misguided you and made you eat meat. I was then assassinated by a strong man, named Skanda and born as an elephant, but was killed in a war. Then, I was born as your son, Prince Arisudana. When I remembered my past births, I became an ascetic and was born as a deity in the eighth celestial world. But you, in your life as Bhurinandana, suffered a lot and became a python. From there, you went in the second hell. After enduring the tortures of hell for a prolonged time you were born as King Ratnamali. The consumption of meat has given you so much of grief. Now, do not add to it by setting this city abaze. I was Upamanyu your royal priest and now I am a diety. I am here to prevent you from committing this heinous crime and the worst of sins." When the diety finished his speech, King Ratnamali and his son Suryanjaya were filled with disgust. They both accepted the diksa and became mendicants. Acaryadeva Sri Tilakasundarasurisvarji Maharaja initiated both, King Ratnamali and his son in the order of asceticizm. After death, they became dieties in the seventh celestial world and when they completed their span as dieties, Suryanjaya was born as King Dasaratha and King Ratnamali was born as King Janaka. When Upamanyu finished his span in the eighth celestial world, he was born as Prince Kanakaraja, the younger brother of Janaka. When King Dasaratha heard about his rebirth, he felt the urge to become an ascetic. The irony of karma is evident in the fact that in one life Ratnamali and Suryanjaya were father and son and in other birth they became relatives. Upasti, a girl who hated asectics, was born as King Dasaratha. When we realise this irony of karma, we must give up adharma and strive for salvation. Dasaratha Upasti Many Birth Varuna Yugalika Diety. Nandivardhana (Son) 5th Heaven. Suryanjaya (Son) 7th Heaven. Dasaratha For Personal & Private Use Only Satyabhuti Muni Nandighosa (Father) Graiveyaka Satyabhuti Muni

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115 Appendix-4 The previous births of Jatayu King Dandaka ruled kumbhakarakata nagar situated in Bharata ksetra. He was married to Princess Purandarayasa, the daughter of King Jitasatru, who ruled Sravastinagari. King Jitasatru had a son, named to quickly atone and cleanse the karmas, which takes Prince Skandhakumara. Once, Palaka, the chief minis- ages of austerities to be cleansed. This painful death ter of the King Dandaka, came to Sravasti to visit the will minimise your karmas." Thus, four hundred and court of King Jitasatru. A scholarly debate was on, in ninetynine of the disciples achieved the Kevalagyana the court of Sravasti. Young prince Skandhakumara de- while they were being squeezed into pulp and achieved feated the seasoned chief minister Palaka in the de- salvation bate. Palaka felt humiliated and decided to take a revenge. Young Skandhakumara decided to be a monk, The last disciple was a young boy, while he was when he realised how the karmas entangle a soul in being dragged on to the machine; the acaryadeva eartheir clasp, for ages and ages. He and five hundred nestly pleaded to Palaka!, "I cannot endure the sight other princes were initiated into the monkhood by of this boy's meeting his end painfully. Pray, squeeze Munisuvratasvami. After extensive scholarly pursuits me into pulp first, you may do whatever you desire to and penance, he was felicitated by the title of Acarya. this young muni, once I am dead." Palaka said, "So He became famous as Acarya Khandhakasurisvaraji. you are the one who preaches detachment? You love this young disciple so much that your heart will bleed Once, after obtaining a consent from his men- when you witness him being minced gradually. The tor, Acarya Khandhakasurisvaraji left for boy shall be killed in your presence." The young muni Kumbhakarakatanagara, to preach his sister too obtained the kevalagyana while being crushed and Purandarayasa. He desired to explain the transitory achieved salvation, but the acarya who was emotionnature of the world to his sister, so that she could take ally tormented thought to himself "I have sincerely pracsteps to achieve renunciation. He was accompanied tised my austerities and, if I have unfalteringly followed by five hundred of his disciples. When the chief minis- my academic pursuits then, may I be conferred with ter Palaka heard about the acarya's arrival, he decided an opportunity to revenge Dandaka and Palaka with to avenge his defeat, for he had been nurturing a their entire clan and nation." He was squeezed into grudge against the acarya for years. He secretly burried pulp and was reborn as a diety named Vahnikumara. many weapons in the garden on the outskirts. Visiting Vahni in Sanskrta means fire. different places, Acaryasri arrived at Kumbhakarakatanagara and stayed in the garden near The acarya's 'Rajoharana' was stained with the percints of the kingdom. King Dandaka his digni blood. A kite thought it to be a huge chunk of meat taries and citizens visited him. When they heard the and grabbed it into its talons. While he was flying high, sermon of the acarya, they were spellbound. his grip on the Rajoharana was weakened and it fell in the courtyard of the acarya's sister. Purandarayasa lifted King Dandaka returned to the palace and was it and identified it as the same Rajoharana, which she resting in solitude. Taking advantage of this, the had gifted to her brother Acarya Khandhaka surisvarji. crooked minister entered his chamber and said, She began to sob uncontrolably. Devi Naradatta- the "Your Majesty, I am your humble slave and pray Sasanadevi of Lord Munisuvrat Svami, lifted her tenfor your well being. I am here to warn you that the derly and brought her to the Lord. Her boundless sorman who is masquearading as a monk is in fact a rows turned into tranquility at the mere sight of the hypocrite. He is tired of the austerities and de- Lord. She then embraced the ascetic life. sires to embrace the material world. He is here to dethrone you. His five hundred disciples are in The diety Vahnikumara, who in his past birth was fact trained warriors and each one is as powerful Acarya Khandhaka surisvarji, set ablaze the King as thousand warriors. They have dug trenches in Dandaka and the chief minister Palaka alongwith their the gardens and hidden a lot of weapons in them. entire clan and entire nation in order to avenge the Pray, dispatch your sentries to the garden to re death of the five hundred munis. Since then, that area cover the concealed weapons. The king was enraged, became famous as Dandakaranya. The chief minister when his sentries returned with the hidden weapons. Palaka went to seventh hell after his death. King The king said, "You really are my most trusted and Dandaka was reborn in thousands of species, living a worthy minister. Now that you have unearthed the se painful life and more painful death. Finally, he was born cret plan of these imposters, I hand them over to you. as a vulture, inflicted with diseases. His name was Do with them as you please." Gandha. The sight of Muni Sugupta reminded him of his past births. Muni Sugupta was gifted with When the cruel minister heard this, he was over- Sparsalabdhi- a power of soul by which anyone bejoyed. He ordered the blacksmiths to make a huge comes disease-free, by a mere touch. When the vulmachine for crushing humans. He then put the dis- ture touched him, it was healed. His wings received a ciples of the worthy acarya in the machine, one after golden hue. His beak became radiant like a coral and another. The serene and unruffled acarya asked each his feet glew with the bright red effulgence of one of them to perform "Niryamana"- the final devo- Padmaraga. His body glittered like precious gems and tion. He said, "Palaka is not your foe, but a true brother he developed a crest that resembled a tuft, therefore and a wellwisher; for he is giving you an opportunity he became famous as Jatayu. For Personal & Private Use Only

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116 Appendix-5 The foundation of Vanaravamsa Vali, Sugriva, Angada and Hanumana are referred to as Vanaras- apes in the epic Ramayana. They weren't monkeys or apes, but they were Vidyadhars belonging to the clan of apes. Why were they called apes when infact they were specially abled men? During the regime of Lord Sreyansanatha, the island named Raksasa was ruled by King Kirtidhavala. During these days, King Atindra ruled Meghapuranagara, which was situated in the southern ranges of the mount Vaitadhya. He had a son named Srikanta and a daughter named Devi. She surpassed the celestial beings in beauty. When she reached puberty, King Puspottara of Ratnapuranagara proposed King Atindra that princess Devi be married to his son Padmottar. He had a daughter Padma. King Atindra did not accept the proposal and gave away his daughter Devi to King Kirtidhavala of Raksasadvipa in marriage. The enraged king Puspottara nurtured enemity against King Atindra and Prince Srikanta. It is common for a man to treat anyone, who does not respect his opinions and views, as an enemy. It is not ethical to impose one's own point of view on others. Since the king of Ratnapura lacked this understanding, he developed enemity with Atindra, the king of Meghapura. Once, the young prince of Meghapura, Srikanta, had been out for an excursion. During his return journey, he noticed Princess Padma, the daughter of King Puspottara. The princess too noticed him and both fell in love at the first sight. For a moment, the princess thought, "I wish that this handsome prince abducts me, so that we can spend the rest of life together." The wise prince understood what the princess thought, he gathered courage and immediately grabbed her by hand and carried her in his aircraft. The maids of the princess raised a commotion. When King Puspottara learnt that his beloved daughter has been abducted by the son of his deadliest foe, he was enraged. He summoned the army and boarded his aircraft. He, at once, began the search for his daughter. The young prince Srikanta hurried towards Lanka and seeked a refuge from King Kirtidhavala, who was married to his sister. He narrated his love story to King Kirtidhavala. In the meantime, King Puspottara traced him and laid a seize to Lankanagara. King Kirtidhavala sent his emissary to King Puspottara. The emissary said, "O King, you wanted your daughter to marry a man of your choice, but your daughter has willingly selected Prince Srikanta as her life partner. We must respect her view and must refrain from fighting. The war and its subsequent results will ruin the joy and and life of your own daughter, whom you no doubt love more than your ownself. On behalf of my king, I appeal you to join the nupital of Prince Srikanta with Princess Padma and confer your blessings on them. I think, this is what the time demands. A maid came hurrily to the King Puspottara and said, "Master your daughter Princess Padmadevi desires me to convey you this message. She said, 'I was not abducted forcefully, but willingly moved with Prince Srikanta. I, by my own will, have chosen him as my life partner." When King Puspottara heard this, he was pacified. He happily joined the grand wedding proceedings, and having blessed the couple, left for Ratnapura. Kirtidhavala, the king of Lanka, said to Prince Srikanta, "Pray, do not return to Meghapura, for you have many enemies in the southern ranges of the mount Vaitadhya. I do not say that you are not capable of tackling them, nor do I think you to be a timid person, but it is not right to live under a constant threat of agression. What's more, we love you so much that the thought of being separated from you, strikes our heart with a terror. Besides Raksasadvipa, I also rule the Vanara, Simhala, Barbarakula and many other islands. You may settle down in any island of your choice and rule it without any fear. Prince Srikanta accepted this proposal and selected the Kiskindhanagara in Vanara island as his kingdom. King Srikanta was not only kind and friendly to the human beings, but also to the apes and monkeys, that were in abundance at the Vanara island. He appealed the citizens to take care of the apes and not to hurt them. He served the best food to the apes and monkeys. The citizens too followed the example of their king. They accepted the monkey as a totem. The picture of a monkey received a place of honour on their national flag and insignia. Thus, the inhabitants of the Vanara islands, though they were Vidyadhara humans, were called Vanarasmonkeys. Their clan became famous as the clan of apes. King Srikanta was the first king of the Vanaras and his son was the valiant Vajrakantha. For Personal & Private Use Only

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117 Once, King Srikanta noticed Indra, the king of the celestial world, flying in his aircraft in the direction of Nandisvaradvipa. He was accompanied by several other dieties. Seeing them, King Srikanta felt the urge of going for a pilgrimage to the Nandisvaradvipa. He boarded his aircraft but no matter what he did, the aircraft didn't proceed further. King Srikanta's heart was filled with sorrow. "How unfortunate I am indeed! I couldn't go for a pilgrimage, when I desire," he said to himself. He further thought, I must not blame anyone except myself for this unfulfilled desire. Probably, I did not perform enough penance in my last births. What is the use of this throne and power, when I cannot visit this holy place? What is the use of having a wife, son and family? What is the use of this royal court and the courtiers? The courtiers are nothing except sychophants. Its high time, I think about my soul. When the introspection revealed the truth of the material world, he said, "I must endeavour to walk on the path of salvation now. But unless all my desires. passions, and emotion sink into nothingness, I cannot take steps towards renunciation. I must adore the lord and observe celibacy, I must not please my senses and surrender to the will and word of the lord. This is impossible untill I become an ascetic. In order to appease the sins, I must revolt to forgiveness. In order to follow celibacy, I must observe the nine guptis. I must nip the cause of sins in bud by surrendering to the will of God, and for this, I must renounce the world." He then handed over the throne to his son Vajrakantha and became an ascetic. He performed austere penance and finally achieved salvation. King Vajrakantha was followed by the worthy and valiant kings like Ghanodadhiratha, Kiskindha, Adityaraja and Vali. Though Vali and Sugriva belonged to the tribe of Vanars-apes, Pavananjaya and Hanumana did not belong to their clan. They were Vidyadharas. Uttarapurana and many other works of Ramayana mention that Princess Padmaraga, the daughter of either Vali or Sugriva, was married to Hanumana and he was absorbed in the tribe of the apes. According to many other versions of Ramayana, Hanumana practised celibacy since childhood. He was unmarried and combined wit, knowledge and enormous muscle power. Appendix-6 The Previous Births of Indrajit, Meghavahana and Mandodari Prathama and Pascima were two poor broth- as a mighty diety in the fifth celestial world. Through ers, who resided in Kausambinagari. They discovered his Avadhigyan, he learnt that his brother of the past the true dharma through an ascetic called Bhavadatta birth was born as a prince, and was induged into seekand became mendicants. ing sensual pleasure. He, therefore appeared before the young prince Rativardhana and narrated him how After many years, they once again reached their he sunk deeper and deeper into the swamp of denative place during the month of spring. The climate sires. When the prince Rativardhana heard this, he was pleasant and everyone celebrated the advent of remembered his past birth. He repented and became spring. When Pascima muni saw King Nandighosa and an ascetic. The acquired virtues, once fulfill the pashis consort enjoying the festivities, he said to himself, sions, but gradually leads to miseries. Rativardhana 'I wish to become a prince as a result of my penance.! repented for his folly and immediately embraced an The other ascetics tried to convince him that his rea asectic life to atone his sins. He managed to free himsoning was wrong, for, one embraces the austere life self from the shackles of sins. acquire virtue and was of a mendicant, to minimise karmas and achieve sal born as a diety in the fifth celestial world. When their vation. They urged him to take his words back, but tenure as a diety came to an end, both of the brothers Pascima muni did not pay heed to their advice. When became kings of Vibudhanagara, situated in he died, his soul entered the womb of queen Indumukhi Mahavideha Ksetra. Both initiated ascetic life and beand he was born as Prince Rativardhana. When he came dieties in the twelvth celestial world. From there, stepped into the threshold of youth, he too, like his they both were born as Ravana's sons, Indrajit and father, indulged into amourous games with his wives. Meghavahana. Indumukhi, the mother of Rativardhana His elder Prathama muni practised selfless and muni, after many births, was born as Mandodari and desirefree penance, and after his demise was born became Ravana's wife. Table Indrajit Meghavahana Mandodari Prathama (Brother) Pascima (Brother) Rativardhan (Son) Indumukhi (Mother) Many births Fifth heaven Fifth heaven King Twelvth heaven Indrajit King Twelvth heaven Meghavahana Private Uso ional Mandodari

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118 Appendix-7 The relation between Bharata and the elephant Bhuvanalankara When Lord Sri Rsabhadeva became an ascetic, four thousand kings renounced the world and joined him. He would not consume food or talk with anyone. He just moved from one place to other. Kaccha and Mahakaccha, the chief munis, were asked by the others, "When and how would they eat?" The Munis replied, "We do not know, for we did not ask Lord anything before our initiation and now, Lord does not answer any query. Now, we are between the horns of a dilemma, for, we can neither return home, nor can we survive without food. Thinking this, they started a new cult, which had comparatively lenient rules. It was called the cult of Tapasa's. Candrodaya, the son of King Prahlada and Surodaya, the son of King Suprabha were two of those Tapasas. After many births, Candrodaya was born as Prince Kulnkara of Gajapuranagara and Surodaya was born in the same city as brahamin Srutirati. In due course of time, Prince Kulankara was coronated. Once, when the King Kulankara was on his way to the hermitage of a tapasa, he came across a muni, who possessed avadhigyana. The muni said, "O Great king! you are on your way to meet a tapasa, who is performing pancagni sadhana. When you reach his hermitage, you will notice a pile of wood, which would be utilised as fuel. A snake has somehow got into the pile. The snake, in his past birth, was your grandfather, King Ksemankara. Hurry up and free the poor snake." King Kulankara was restless, when he heard this. He rushed to the hermitage and freed the snake from the pile of fuel. He began to wonder, "My grandfather was a noble king and yet his karmas made him a crawling reptile. My fate could be worse than this, if I do not take care of my soul." This chain of thoughts created an urge to renounce the world in his heart. In the meantime, priest Srutirati, who in fact was a reincarnation of Surodaya, hurried to the king and said, "O mighty king, Jain dharma is not a part of your family tradition, yet, if you are really keen on being initiated into ascetism, by all means do it, but not now. You may do so, when you reach the twilight years. Why are you disrupting the pattern of administration." When the king heard this, he was disheartened and began to wonder, "What should I do now." His queen Sridama had adulterous relation with the royal priest Srutirati. When she saw her husband in a tensive mood, she thought, "The king has certainly learnt about my adulterous liasion with his priest. I must hurry and murder him, before he exposes me." She and the priest Srutirati hatched a conspiracy. Sridama served him poisoned meal and killed her own husband. This is the irony of karma. Priest Srutirati conspired to kill Kulankara, his own friend of past birth. Woe to the carnal desires, for, they induced an Aryan woman to assassinate her own husband. After many rebirths, both the king and the priest were born in the family of a learned brahmin as twins. The twins were named as Vinoda and Ramana. Ramana left Rajagrhi to learn the vedas. Vinoda was married to a brahmin maiden named Sakha. When Ramana finished his academic pursuits, he returned to Rajagrhi, but the night sentinel did not open the gates of the city. Ramana, therefore decided to spend the remaining night in the temple of a yaksa, which was situated at the outskirts. Vinoda's wife Sakha had adulterous relations with a brahmin named Datta. She had agreed to meet him during the advanced hours of night in the same temple, where Ramana was sleeping. She reached the temple as usual and her husband Vinoda followed her. When she saw Ramana, who was fast asleep, she thought that he was her lover Datta. She woke him and they indulged into passionate action. Seeing this, Vinoda attacked his own brother with a sword. Ramana pulled out his dagger and in a fierce duel that ensued, Ramana was killed. Sakha plunged Ramana's dagger in the heart of her husband and murdered him. Vinoda's soul transmigrated through many births and was born in the family of a rich trader as Dhana. Ramana's soul too transmigrated through many cycles of birth and was born in the same family. He was named Bhusana. He married thirty two young maidens at his father's insistence. Once, he was enjoying the beauty of the night on the terrace, accompanied by his wives. During the fourth hour of the night, he saw For Personal & Private Use Only

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119 the dieties descending the earth in order to celebrate the Kevalagyana festival of Sridhara muni. His heart was filled with tranquility. He descended the steps and left to pay obeisance to Sridhara muni, but a venomous snake bit him. He died with a good intension. Hence, he passed through good births many times and was born in Mahavideha ksetra as Prince Priyadarsana, the son of Acala Cakravarti and his wife Queen Harini. Since childhood, his mind was inclined towards dharma. He wanted to renounce the world at a very tender age, but his father got him married to three thousand beautiful maidens. During his lifespan as a layman, he performed excellent penance for sixty four thousand years. When he died, he was born as a diety in Brahmadevaloka. Dhana's soul travelled through the cycle of birth and death. cal change in him. He left all his vices and became an ascetic. He too became a diety in Brahmadevaloka, but his debaucharies in early life forced him to take birth as an elephant Bhuvanalankara in the forest of the mount Vaitadhya. Priyadarsana's soul was reborn as Bharata, after he finished his tenure as a diety in Brahmadevaloka. When the elephant Bhuvanalankara saw Bharata, he remembered his past births and was pacified. TABLE Bharata The elephant Bhuvanalankara King Candrodaya (Tapasa) Kulankara King Surodaya (Tapasa) Srutirati Many rebirth Many rebirths Vinoda Ramana Many rebirths Many rebirths Dhana Bhusana Many rebirths Good births He was then born as Mrdumati at Potanapura, in a brahmin family, but he was rude and imprudent. His father therefore threw him out of the home. The young boy cultivated bad habits as there was none to control him. He was an expert gambler and mastered many arts and cheated people in order to earn his livelyhood. His expertise in gambling made him very rich. He then became friendly with a harlot called Vasanta. But the twilight years brought a radi Mrudumati Priyadarsana Diety in Brahmadevaloka Diety in Brahmadevaloka Elephant Bhuvanalankara Bharata For Personal & Private Use Only

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120 Appendix-8 Previous Lives of Rama, Laksmana, Visalya, Bibhisana, Ravana, Sugriva and Sita A trader named Nayadatta, resided at the Ksemapuranagara in the southern Bharata. He had two sons Dhanadatta and Vasudatta. They had a friend called Yagyavalkya. In the same city, a noble trader Sagardatta had a son Gunadhara and daughter Gunavati. When Gunavati reached puberty, her father engaged her to Vasudatta. But her mother Ratnaprabha, a greedy woman, secretly engaged her to a rich man Srikanta. Yagyavalkya, somehow came to know the vicious plan of Ratnaprabha. He revealed it to his friends Dhanadatta and Vasudatta. One night, Vasudatta attacked his rival Srikanta. A fierce duel ensued and both the young men died while fighting with each other. Both were reborn as deers in the jungles, situated on the slopes of the mount Vindhyacala. Gunavati remained a spinster throughout her life and was born as a gazel. The animosity between the two deers was so intense that they fought with each other for the gazel, and after death, they continued the vicious cycle of birth and death for a long period. Dhanadatta, the elder son of Nayadatta was so shattered by his brother's death, that he lost faith in his dharma and wandered through the forest like a lunatic. One night, he saw an ascetic in jungle and asked him for some food. The muni replied, "We do not store food even for the day, You too, must not eat or dine after the sunset, for, in the darkness after sunset, many micro-organisms grow tremendously all over. They cannot be seen by naked eyes. Eating after sunset leads to the first gate of the hell. When Dhanadatta heard this, he became a sravaka and lived a virtuous life. After his death, he was born in the first celestial world. From there, he was born at Mahapuranagara as Padmaruci. He became a great sravaka. Once, he was riding to Gokul. He came across an aged bull who was about to breathe his last. He halted and descended from his chariot and recited the Navakara mantra in the ears of the bull. When the bull died, he was born as Prince Rsabhadhvaja. The enormous latent energy in the Namaskara Mahamantra made this feasible. Once, he reached the place where he lived in his previous birth and remembered his past birth vividly. He erected a gigantic Jina temple there. One of the temple walls depicted a dying bull and a young man murmering something in his ears. He ordered the sentinels, "Anyone who can interprete the enigma behind this strange scene should be brought to me at once." Once, Padmaruci reached in the vicinity of the Jina temple. When he noticed the strange picture, he said, "This is me, and I know what is the picture about." The sentinel took him to Prince Rsabhadhvaja, The prince asked him "How could you solve the mystery of the enigmatic scene?" Padmaruci answered, "I can, for I myself recited the Namaskara Mahamantra in the ears of a dying bull." The prince said, "I was that dying bull. I have acquired the loftiest status because of this mantra. Had it not been for you, I would have still been an animal of somekind. You are my mentor, my master and my lord. Pray, take my empire, be a ruler and let me be your slave." Padmaruci and Rsabhadhvaja lived a very virtuous life as sravaka and when they died, they were elevated to the Isana second devlok and became very mighty dieties. From there, Padmaruci's soul was born as Prince Nayanananda at Nandavarta nagara. He lived a virtuous life and after his demise went in the fourth celestial world called Mahendra; From there, he was born at Purvavideha as Prince Sricandra. In this life, he renounced the world and accepted an ascetic life. Muni Samadhigupta initiated him into the fold of ascetism. After his death, he was elevated in the fifth celestial world known as Brahmadevaloka as Indra and from there, he was born as a very mighty ruler Rama. The soul of Rsabhadhvaja was born as Sugriva, during the times of Rama. The soul of Srikanta, after transmigrating through many cycles of births and deaths, was born as King Sambhu of Mrnalakandanagara. His enemy Vasudatta too travelled through innumerable lives and was born in the family of the royal priest of Mrnalakandanagara as Sribhuti. Gunavati, whose love created a rift between Srikanta and Vasubhuti, was born as Vegavati the daughter of Sribhuti. After one rebirth, she was born as Sita. For the other lives of Sita refer appendix-2 For Personal & Private Use Only

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Why was Sita criticized ? Once, Sudarsana muni was performing penance by meditating in a standing posture called Kayotsarga. Thousands of people would gather to pay obeisance to him. Once, Vegavati jokingly told the people that she had seen the sadhu in the company of a woman. She further said that the muni was not as great as the people thought him to be. She rebuked the people for their blind faith in a debaucher, masquerading as a muni. The people believed her and began to criticize the muni, but the muni never spoke a angry word either to Vegavati or to the people, for he had developed Samatabhava i.e. tolerance Yet, he decided that he would not end his Kayotsarga as long as he would absolve from this crime, which he had not committed. A diety, who was devoted to the great Sudarsana muni, turned Vegavati's face black. Her father Sribhuti realised the grave mistake which his daughter had committed and he reprimanded her in very harsh words. The terrified Vegavati declared in front of a congregation that the muni's conduct was above any reproach. She further said that she made these false and baseless allegations only to observe the patience of the muni and finally begged for pardon. She then became a Sravika, laywoman of a very high spiritual stature, and was elevated to a fifth celestial world after her death. When she was born as Sita, she was blamed by the people of Ayodhya because she didn't confess in her previous life for commiting the sin of blaming the muni. Why did Sita become the cause of Ravana's death? King Sambhu (Ravana), enticed by the beauty of Vegavati (Sita), made a formal proposal to her father Sribhuti (Laksmana). He refused it because the king was not the follower of Jainism. Thus enraged, the king murdered him and raped her daughter Vegavati. Vegavati cursed him saying that she will be the cause of his death in future. Hence, Vegavati, who was born as Sita, became the cause of his death The soul of King Sambhu transmigrated and was born as Prabhasa brahmin. He was initiated into Diksa by Vijayasena muni. Once, the ascetic Prabhasa muni noticed a king of vidhyadhars named Kanakadhvaja, flying with his entire retinue towards the Sammeta sikharaji for a pilgrimage. His granduer made him resemble Indra, the emperor of dieties. Prabhasamuni, influenced by the granduer of Kanakadhvaja, wished to possess his granduer by the power of his penance. After death, he was reborn as a diety in the third celestial world and from there, he was born as Prativasudeva Ravana. He was the ruler of three divisions of Bharata. Due to his ill deeds, he went to the fourth hell after his death. The brahmin Yagyavalkya, who was the friend of Vasudatta and Dhanadatta, transmigrated through many lives and was born as Bibhisana. How did Sribhuti become Laksmana? Sribhuti, who was murdered by his master, King Sambhu, was elevated to the celestial world. From there, he was born as Punarvasu, a vidyadhara at the Supratisthitapura. Once, overcome by his carnal desires, he abducted Princess Anamngasundari, the daughter of Cakravarti Tribhuvanananda of Pundarikavijaya nagara. The king sent his vidyadharas to catch him. Punarvasu was badly wounded, while fighting with the vidyadharas. Anangasundari fell off from the aircraft. Fortunately, she fell on the thick cluster of creepers and was saved. Punarvasu desired to have Anangasundari for himself, but his desire remained unfulfilled. Then, he became an ascetic, but heart in heart, he wanted Anangasundari to be his life partner in return of the virtue that he would acquire as an ascetic. After he completed his tenure on the earth as an ascetic, he was elevated in the celestial world, from there, he was born as Laksmana. Anangasundari made the forest her new abode and practiced austere penance. Finally, she stopped consuming food. She became very frail. One day, a python swallowed her. She was elevated to the celestial world called lsana devaloka as a goddess. She was then born on the earth as Princess Visalva. The virtue, that she had acquired by her penance in her pre-birth as Anangasundari, was still intact, therefore she neutralized the power of Amoghvijaya vidya. The lines of karmas are strange. Laksmana and Sita, in their pre-births, were father and daugh

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ter, King Sambhu (Ravana) killed sribhuti (Laksmana). As a revenge, Ravana was killed by Laksmana. Summary : The soul of Dhanadatta, transmigrated through the births of Padmaruci, Sricandra etc and was finally reborn as Rama. Padmaruci recited the Navakara mantra for the spititual upliftment of the dying bull. The bull was born as Sugriva and joined Rama. Dhanadatta and Yagyavalkya were friends and their friendship remained intact even when Dhanadatta was born as Rama. Table Sugriva Rama Laksmana Sita Ravana Bibhisana Visalya Dhanadatta (Brother) Vasudatta (Brother) Gunavati Srikanta (Foe) | Yagyavalkya (Friend) 1 st Heaven Deer Gazel Deer Many births Bull Padmaruci Many births Many births Many births Rsabhadhvaja 2nd Heaven 2nd Heaven Many births Nayanananda 4th Heaven Sricandra 5th Heaven Sribhuti (Father) | Vegavati (daughter) | Sambhu (Foe) Heaven 5th Heaven Many births Punarvasu Prabhasa Anangasundari Heaven 3rd Heaven Ravana 2nd Heaven Visalya Sugriva Rama Laksmana Sita Bibhisana Appendix-9 The past births of Lava-Kusa graiveyaka devaloka. Finally, they were born as Lava and Kusa. Queen Sudarsana, their mother in a previous birth, was born as their teacher Siddhaputra. Table Lava Kusa Siddhaputra Vasunanda (Brother) Sunanda (Brother) A Brahmin named Vamadeva at kakandi Nagari had two sons, Vasunanda and Sunanda. Once, both of them served a worthy ascetic, who was observing a fast of one month known as Masaksamana in the Jain texts. Because of this act of virtue, they were born as yugalika men in Uttarakuru. From there, they were elevated to the celestial world called Soudharma. Then, they were born at Kakandi nagari as Prince Priyankara and Prince subhankara of the King Rativardhana and Queen Sudarsana. They ruled their subjects, for a long time and finally renounced the world and became ascetics. Then, they were elevated to Yugalika Yugalika 1st heaven 1st heaven Subhankara (Son) Priyankara (Son) Sudarsana (Mother) Many births Graveyaka Graiveyaka Kusa Lava Siddhaputra

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WE ARE THANKFUL TO THE SPONSORS OF THIS EDITION SHRI K. P. SANGHVI CHARITABLE TRUST Shri Pavapuri Tirth IN ONE VIEW.... with flowers of Devotion, Donation, Courage and Service. It is a new Kalpvruksha "Shri Pavapuri Tirthdham Jivmaitri Dham" on this great land (marudhara). The magnificent Pavapuri Tirthdham spread over 500 Bighas (87,12,000 sq. ft.), shaped and constructed by Jain Swethamber Murtipujak Tapagach, Visha Oswal "Sanghvi Punamchandji Dhanaji Bafna K. P. Sanghvi Family" residents of Malgaon, Sirohi, Rajasthan, is well known for its beautification & glory. The presence of the temple of Lord Shankeshwar Parshwanath, on this piece of land, adds to its grace & glory. Along with a Dharamshala & Bhakti Bhavan, this Tirthdham takes care of more than 5300 cows by not only providing shelter but also cattle fodder, green grass, water, vetenary treatments etc. With this, it appears that belief of "Ishavasyam Idam Sarvam" (in Sanskrit) is disembark? God is omnipresent. This holy land is blessed by the visits of Lord Mahavira and temple of Lord Shankeshwara in its centre. Tapovan's beauty is added by 20000 roomy trees. For devotees, a plan for 500 sandalwood trees is proposed. It is an ocean of Jivdaya and seven kshetras of Jainism. This garden is flowered There is a rememberance temple (Guru mandir) in the memory of Shri Pavapuri Tirthdham's Inspirator Pratisthapak, Kalikal's Kalpataru, Adhyatmayogi Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay KALAPURNASURISHWARJI Maharaj. To commemorate the 2600" anniversary of Lord Mahavira, the construction of Pavapuri Jal mandir and Lord Mahavira's Deshna in form of Samvasran Temple was commenced. There are events depicted on Lord Mahavira's twenty seven births(Bhav), 24 Tirthankar's kaivalya tree and Charan Padhuka, Tirthdhiraj Shri Shatrunjaya Giriraj's creation alongwith Shri Shatrunjaya dam etc. The holiness of this land is irrigated by the penance and meditation of 5000 attham fast's devotees, thousands devotees of Oli and Chaturmas (4 months) etc. The glory of this holiest place is added by the visits of thousands of priests. SHRI PAVAPURI TIRTHDHAM TRUST MANDAL & K. P. SANGHVI CHARITABLE TRUST MUMBAI - SURAT - MALGAON Jai... Jai... Jai. ai Shri Ra min Bithidham vapuri Lintha aitri Dham zrI zaramezvara pArzvanAtha bhagavAna DIT! NOTONICOWOLOVIORALS pAvApurI tIrtha dhAma Jal a n International For Personal & Private Use Only

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THANKS TO THE SPONSORS OF THIS EDITION.. (2) Amritalal Gulabachandaji & Riteshkumar Amritalalji Takhatgarh (Rajasthan) (3) Shrimati Fancyben Manekchandji Ramani (Wife) Manekacandaji Kapurachandaji Ramani Khivandi (Rajasthan) Sushri Veena kumari Manekchandji Ramani (Daughter) PATRONS CO-PATRONS 1) Sanghavi Babulalaji Acalaji - Sheoganj 2) By the inspiration of sadhvi Punitarekhasriji Babulalaji Ratanchandji - Takhatgarh 3) By the inspiration of Muni Shree Munisharatna Vijayji M.S. Sanghavi Saremalaji Bheraji - Beda 4) Bharatabhai 5) A Layman - Davangere 6) By the inspiration of sadhvi Moksesarekhasriji Sha Ratanchandji Pratapji 7) By the inspiration of sadhvi Prinesarekhasriji Sankaliben Kundanamalaji Sanghavi - Padarali 8) Sha Lalitkumarji Bhuramalji Sadariya - Pindwara 9) By the inspiration of Muni Matiratna Vijayji M.S. Vimalchandji Ghevarchandji Jain - Isali - Mumbai 1) Diptibena Girisabhai - Bhavnagar 2) By the inspiration of sadhvi Kiranarekhasriji Sha Anandkumarji Mithalalji - Bijapur Karnataka 3) In the rememberance of the initiation of Jayeshbhai and Darshanaben. Sha Uttamchand Hathichand & family Borivali, Mumbai. 4) Sagaramalaji Virabhanaji - Beda 5) Pukharajaji Kapuracandaji - Beda 6) By the inspiration of sadhvi Nimesarekhasriji Sha Jugarajji Otarmalji Revatada 7) By the inspiration of Panyas Raviratnavijayji M.S. Velangari Siddhagiri Navanu Yatra General Fund by Sanghvi Shantilalji Roopaji 8) Sha Champalalji Rikhabchandji - Chandarai 9) Sha Pukharajaji Pratapaji - Takhatgarh 10) Sha Hansarajji Kalalji - Puran 11) Pravinbhai Chimanlal Sheth - Vav 12) Sha Bhurmalji Megaji 13) Sha Babulalji Pratapji 14) By the inspiration of sadhvi Alokikrekhasreeji MS Shrimati Manjulaben Jaysukhbhai Thakarasi Sangvi - Bhavanagar SA so o & Private Use Only

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sarkiTa hAusa illustrated Jain Ramayana (Hin.) released by Reverend Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehalot at the CIRCUIT HOUSE Jaisalmer Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehalot assisted by Colonel Sonaram Gandhi, member of PARLIAMENT (INDIA) & Mahendra Bafna of Jain Community Releasing ceremony of illustrated Jain Ramayana * RELEASING-CEREMONY OF ILLUSTRATED Jain Ramayana AT AHMEDABAD & JAISALMER The Minister of power & electricity Kaushik Patel Minister Goradhanbhai Jhapadiya, & The President of Anandji Kalyanji Pedhi - Sheth Shri Shrenikbhai kindled the auspicious lamp in the releasing ceremony of Jain Ramayana girAmAyaNa Deputy P. M. Lal Krishna Adwani released the illustrated Jain Ramayana in Guarati at Ahmedabad assisted by Sunil Singh Deputy Chairman of mines For Personal & Private Use Only www.ainelibrary.org

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- ( khavagasedhi Only after 6 years of initiation, his holiness has described the a sapaka Srenia. It equalas 20,000 verses written in Prakrta and Sanskrta. The professor of Berlin university, Clause Broon, has also praised this script. Prestur faster anazana ko Rice ... SARAR Tensana Tu pIsa WORRICO w af Tension to Peace (Guj-Hindi) Rs. 10/Attain peace through various time tested techniques The Spiritual Pilgrimage of Cha Gau (Hin, Guj, Eng) Rs. 30/A mental pilgrimmage to 6 a gaua of the palitana. gry . To 15 DS Bandhanakarana (Sanskrta) Rs. 100/His Holiness has written a commentary on this script, which equals 15,000 verses vI. je karabhANu, nA Jo Je Karmaye Na (Guj-Hindi) Rs. 201 A guide to confess the dreadly sins and purify the soul The Night Mare is over (Guj, English) Rs. 100/ Hanumana's mother Anjanasundari's heart touching tale with occassional 4 colour pictures. BLOG TIE-08-3 se zivalibhijakI zanizAnAmA WGIL siddhagiri A Visit to Shatrunjaya (Guj-Hindi, Eng.) Rs. 200/A detailed guide to every place on the holy Satrunjaya hill with complete history. Contains about 250 colour photographs by Theo Vogel of France. UGI..o 2 . W illustrious Bhaktamara Stotra. (Hindi-Guj) Rs. 30/Bhaktamara Stotra with 44 colour pictures of Lord Adinatha de gentem w

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zrI pUrvavarAcAryadevazrI zivazarmasUrIzvara viracita Fadli DUA Upasamanakarana (Praksta/Sanskrta) Rs. 100/Describes Upasamasreni in Prakrta and Sanskrta which equals 15,000 verses ADUJ We are govA Coming Soon - Jain Mahabharata 90 colourful pictures on imported art paper. For the first time in Hindi, Gujrati and English Calo Ananupurvi Ganiye (Hindi - Gujrati) Rs. 40/Chant the Ananupurvi with colourful pictures. zrI jineddha darzana caubIsI prerakaH pa. pU. AcAryadeva zrI gujaratna sUrI parajI ma. sA. saMva pUjana - dhAne sAMvatsarika kSamApanI! Re Karma ari Gati Nyari (Guj-Hindi) Rs. 20/How does the pul gain karmas every moment and what are its onsequences ? Paryusana Mahaparva Na Pravacano Ane Samvatsarika ksamapana (Guj-Hin) Rs. 10/8 Sermonas of the Paryusana festive. It can also be sent to near and dearones for asking forgvieness, Miruna i-lakih Moda fi Citramaya Tatvagyana (Hin-Guj) Rs. 40/14 Rajlok, 2 1/2 Island, 9 tatva etc. 17 subjects are described with colourful pictures r . Chalo Apane Saca Jain Baniye A detailed description of the 6 duties of a Sravakaa Satrunjayadi Cara Mahatirtha Disa Darsaka Yantra Residing in any part of the world, you can know the direction of Satrunjaya, Sankheshvara, Sammetsikhara or Nakoda and pray to the lords from where you are. An unique gift zrIzanaMjayAdi cAra mahAtIrtha cAloApaNe sAcA jaina banIye bidezaka pustikA UT Ghale while

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Definations of terms related to Jainism & Dan skrta words Mahasati Magha Masaksamana Mohaniya karma Acyutapati Agni Amoghavijaya Anarya Anuttara Arihanta Astanga Nimitta Aththama Avadhigyana Avalokini Vidya - A women who treats all other men, besides husband, as brothers and father - Fourth month of the hindu calender, according Vikrama Samvata. - Continous 30 days fast. - A kind of Karma that causes delusion, fascination affection in the soul . Ultimate salvation - Monk Moksa Muni Lord of 12th celestial world. - Fire - Amystical weapon that kills ones foe within a night - Non Aryan - Topmost five celestial worlds. * Supreme lord of Jains. Astrology Continous 3 days fast. - Clairvoyance - A mystical power by which one can know about the future. - Age of decay in which everything goes on decreasing - A title recieved by the holy preacher of Jains. - Amystical power by which one can fly in air Namaskara Mahamantra (i) Navakara - Holy enchant of the Jains. Nagapasa - Amystical weapon that wringles snakes around on Avasarpini Acarya deva Akasagamini vidya Panca Paramesti Pancagni sadhana Bahurupini vidya - A mystical power by which one can make innumerable postures of himself - Brother of Vasudeva. Paryankasana Pisaca - preta Pratarini Vidya Prativasudeva - Five supreme authorities of the universe. - A penance of enduring heat from four sides burning woods and from above by the dazzling sul - Squatting position of meditation Ghost Amystical power that changes ones body figure. Emperor of 3 parts of Bharata who is defeated t Vasudeva in his end - Worship - Spiritual knowledge of a high stage Baladeva Cakravarti Puja Purvanga Sruta Sovereign king, who conquers all the 6 divisions of Bharata land. 4 months of the rainy season. Continous 2 days fast. Caturmasa Chattha - Rajoharana Raga - Ragini Rsabhadeva - A symbol of Jain monks used to save small organis Musical tones and rhythm. * First Tirthankara Deva Devaloka Devi Dharanendra Dharma Dharmatma Diksa - Male diety Celestial world Female diety - Lord of the clan of Nagakumara dieties - (1) Religion (2) Duties Religious person. - Initiation - Island Dvipa Samyakdssti - Person who possess firm faith in Jainism. Sadhu Male ascetic Sadhvi - Female ascetic Simhaninada Roar of a lion Snatra Jala Auspicious water Santi Snatra Mahotsava - Holy rituals performed especially for peace. Sudarsana Cakra A dish like weapon possesed by vasudeva etc. Svayamvara - Amarriage by self choice. Sakti - Power Santinatha 16th Tirthankara Sravaka Layman of Jainism, who accepts some vow Sukla * Highest stage of spiritual meditation Gandharva Garudi vidya Ghati karma A kind of marriage. - Amystical power that breaks Nagapasa - Karmas that destroys 4 main virtues, ie, complete knowledge etc., of the soul. - Holy practise of Jain monks by which they accept food - 9 celestial worlds situated above the 12 heavens Gocari Graiveyaka Tara Tapasa Tirthankara - Penance. - A cult of monk who eats only fruits and lives in fore Supreme Lord of Jains. Indra - Lord of celestial beings. Utkatasana Uttarasadhaka Sitting position of meditation as of milking Helper of a person, who tries to achieve something Jinesvara - Supreme lord of the Jains. Karma - Deeds or a bunch of particles achieved by a soul Vamsa through his own deeds. Vasudeva Kayotsarga A meditation in standing posture. Vaikriya Sariri Kevalagyana - Omniscience Vidya Khanda Part of land Vidyadhara Kotisila A huge and heavy stone - Ksapaka sreni Vyantarendra A spiritual proceedure of attaining Omniscience. Ksatriya - A clan of warriors. Yaksa ksetra - Land Yama For Personal & Plate UsYugalika Lokantika - 5th Celestial world - Race - King who conquers 3 out of the 6 parts of Bharata - A special kind of body possessed by dieties etc - A mystical power - A person who possess mystical powers - Musical instruments - fiddle/lute. Master of dieties of Vyantara cain. Vina - Clan of diety, residing on the earth. - The Lord of death - A kind of human beings, born as twins, and en happy life and death www.ainelibrary.org

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