Jain Ramayana Part 3

SR No.: 002023
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 2000
Total Pages: 518
Language: English
Classification: Book_English, Story, & Literature
File Size: 24 MB

Page 243

Towards the path of Samyam
231
glistening leaves. The rest-houses, the schools and the public buildings in the city were decorated in a colourful and fascinating manner. Magnificent arches had been constructed at every important point on the roads and the roads and streets were sprinkled with cool water rendered fragrant by sandal paste and musk and other perfumes that rendered the whole atmosphere auspicious and spiritually elating. Countless rest-houses had been provided with all comforts and luxuries for the sake of guests who had arrived at Ayodhya.
Bharath met Shri Ram and informed him of his mother's decision to become a Sadhvi. Something that was considered undesirable had turned into an auspicious event. The ways of fate are indeed mysterious and mystifying. Kaikayi's decision to become a Sadhvi stupefied Shri Ram who stood petrified like a stone-image unable to give vent to his surging thoughts and feelings. And then after having composed himself a little Shri Ram said in a broken voice.
"What do you say Bharath? Do you mean that mother Kaikayi has also decided to renounce the samsar ? Is she also adopting the path of Charitradharma ?”
“Yes, revered brother! She is determined to become a Sadhvi. Her determination is unshakeable.”
At once, Shri Ram proceeded hurriedly towards the palace of mother Kaikayi. He entered her chamber; saluted her and sat at her feet. After being silent for a few moments, he said in a serious voice, "Dear mother; Is it a fact that you have decided to adopt the Charitradharma ? I heard about your decision only a little while ago from Bharath."
"Dear son! What Bharath has told you is true. I have decided to adopt the Charitradharma and I have decided to spend the remainder of my life in the company of Bharath as a Sadhvi carrying out internal and external austerities and endeavouring to attain spiritual elevation.” Kaikayi said with a serene and smiling face.