Setubandha

SR No.: 001384
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Krishnakant Handiqui
Publisher: Prakrit Text Society Ahmedabad
Publication Year: 1976
Total Pages: 812
Language: English, Sanskrit
Classification: Book_English & Literature
File Size: 14 MB

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SETUBANDHA rested it on her hand covered with her flowing tresses, drenched with tears.
49. She was disquieted by the impending battle, but her anxiety was stifled by her confidence in Rāma's arms. But when Rāvana came to her mind, she was in a puzzle about what would come to pass.
50. She was abashed to see Rāma before her (in her imagination); but when she closed her eyes in abashment, her heart became eager to see her beloved again, She opened her eyes in the eagerness of her heart, but became sad as the face of her consort vanished with the opening of the eyes.
51. The demons recalled their task that was slipping from their minds, saddened on seeing her, and drew near, loth to present to her the magic head of Rāma.
52. They then placed before her Rāma's head, with the flesh swollen all round on account of the cut; also a bow with the severed left hand attached to the middle.
53. Sītā was seized with grief when she espied it, and began to tremble as the demons brought it near, and fainted when they said it was Rāma's head.
54. She fell with her left breast pressed on the ground, and the right raised and slanting, and the pale cheeks filling out, being released from the grip of her hands.
55. At the death of one's kinsfolk, the kindred alone become one's refuge. Hence, the daughter of the Earth13 swooned, and fell on the earth, overwhelmed with so great a grief.
. 56. She shed no tears nor could even look at Rāma's head. Having fainted, she only sank to the ground, helpless like one dead.
57. Her face was clouded by the gloom of unconsciousness, with the breath still for a moment, the eyelashes partly joined, and the pupils rolling in her swoon.
13. i.e., Sita.