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 87

Ravan's Marriage
75
Mandodari who was the very embodiment of beauty and nobi- , lity had entered the threshold of youth. Her infatuating beauty inspired envy in the beholders. The chiselled beauty of her form and the grace of her face made people wonder whether she was an angel come down to earth. Buoyant youthfulness sprang out of every organ of her body. Her youth and beauty were indeed bewitching. Her parents were naturally thinking of finding a suitable bridegroom for her.
At the proper time, Mayaraj, the king of Surasangit searched for a suitable bridegroom for his darling daughter in the prominent families of the Vidyadhars in the southern and northern kingdoms situated in the Vaithadhya. But he had not been able to find any Vidyadhar who stood the test of his expectations. So Mayaraj and Hemavathi were deeply worried.
Their worry gradually took the form of anxiety and grief. Their hopes of finding a suitable bridegroom for their daughter had met with frustration. The king used to spend most of his time alone, in his chamber, walking up and down in deep thoughtfulness. His ways caused great worry to the Chief Minister. One day, the Chief Minister sat near Mayaraj respectfully; and said, "Your Excellency! For some days, I have been watching you with anxiety. Something has been worrying you.. You are always dull and dejected, lacking all enthusiasm and zeal. You have not been envincing any interest in the political and administrative affairs. Day by day, your face has been growing duller and duller". The Vidyadhar king heaved a long sigh; and was silent.
"Dear King! If what has been worrying you can be revealed to me, kindly do so. Tell me why you have been worrying yourself so deeply. If I can...." The serious and elevated voice of the Chief Minister echoed in the chamber with a metallic clangour.
"My dear Chief Minister ! What is there that I should conceal from you? Our princess Mandodari has stepped on the threshold of youth. She has reached the age of marriage. Her buoyant youth has been blooming like flowers in spring. I