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Dasarath
165
told me the same thing. Then I took a vow not even to touch a woman against her wishes”. Ravan said in a firm voice.
“You may not touch another woman but fate's decree is that your death must take place on account of a woman, another man's wife.” The Soothsayer said firmly. Then Ravan sought a further clarification.
"Dear sir! Who is that woman? Who is going to kill me ?"
"Oh king! Her name is Janaki and you will be killed by King Dasarath's Son. This is the decree of fate and this decree cannot be altered by any power in this universe; nor can any power reduce its severity".
"But who is Janaki?"
"Janaki will be born as the daughter of Janaka, the King of Mithila".
"How many sons has Dasarath ?”
"Now, Dasarath has no sons but in future, he will beget sons".
"Oh! Dasarath ! On hearing the prophecy of the Soothsayer Vibhishana, the younger brother of Ravan became furious. His blood began to boil with anger. Suddenly, he stood up. Taking out his sword he said waving it ferociously....
"Stop all this nonsense! It is absolutely foolish and stupid to say that one who is not yet born is going to kill Ravan, the heroic King of Lanka. This is absolutely absurd. Ravan the valiant will not be killed thus. Instead of it, this sword of mine . shall cut off the heads of Janaka and Dasarath".
"Hearing the furious words of Vibhishan, Ravan, the King of Lanka became greatly elated but I could not bear to hear it. At once, addressing Vibhishan, I said”.
"Oh Vibhishan! The endeavour to alter the future can never succeed. We do not know what is concealed in the womb of future."
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