Jain Ramayana Part 1

SR No.: 002021
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 2000
Total Pages: 452
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Mythology, & Story
File Size: 21 MB

Page 49

III
THE BIRTH OF RAVAN
The war that was waged in the mountains and caves of Vaithadhya was virtually an invitation to tragic consequences and total defeat and destruction. The Vanara army and the Rakshasa army were completely routed. What did they expect? and what did they get ? Let alone defeating Indra, the King of Vidyadhars; the Vanara army and the Rakshasa army lost everything and were utterly disgraced and defeated. Lanka and Kishkindha which had been prosperous for a long time again fell upon evil days; and lost all their wealth and happiness. The time came for their total defeat and disgrace. A time of adversity set in. The agitation and anguish of Sumali, the King of Rakshasas knew no bounds.
If all the desires and aspirations of man are fulfilled, then, he would not feel the necessity of carrying out endeavours relating to Dharma and for the attainment of Moksha. Ninety nine per cent of man's desires and aspirations are frustrated under the iron-feet of Karmas. Man may wish for hundreds of things; but his wishes are never fulfilled. After the war ended all the warriors of the Vanara army and the Rakshasa army gathered around Sumali. Their faces were sad and deeply depressed. Even on the resplendent face of Sumali, there appeared clear marks of agitation. On account of anguish, he had assumed silence. His face which was always held high, was, now, bent towards the ground in sorrow. Everywhere, stillness and silence reigned supreme. His palace was steeped in stupefied stillness.
Prajnanidhi, the Chief Minister of Lanka said in a humble manner, breaking the ice, "Your Highness! Victory and defeat are not in our hands. They are the sport of fates. What is the