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 254

242
JAIN RAMAYAN
Since Shatrughna was insisting on his desire of capturing Mathura, Shri Ram gave his consent to his fighting against King Madhu. Moreover, he explained to Shatrughna some principles relating to war and militaric strategy. He also gave Shatrughna some powerful weapons like Aparajit. He sent the able commander Kritantvadan to assist him in the war.
Shatrughna bowed to the feet of Lakshman; and sought his blessings on the eve of his departure. Lakshman gave him such efficacious weapons as the Shilimukh, the Agnimukh, and the Arnavavart.
After the court was dismissed, Shatrughna went to obtain the blessings of his mothers. His mothers bestowed upon him their heartiest blessings. Shatrughna was eager to set off on his campaign. This was going to be the first war in his life. This was a unique opportunity for him to display his militaric genius and skill because he had to fight against Madhu who was valiant and haughty.
The preparations for the campaign were completed. The commander Kritantavadan made excellent battle-formations. An auspicious hour was fixed for setting off on the campaign. The preparations for the war were made so secretly that the king of Mathura had no information about the campaign.
Shatrughna set off on his campaign with a vast army, at an auspicious hour. Soon, he arrived with his army on the banks of a river near Mathura. His armies camped on the vast plains near Mathura. In a few hours, there appeared military tents everywhere. Spies went into Mathura to gather information.
It was night. The spies came to Shatrughna and gave him the latest news. They gave him an account of the city of Mathura.
"Dear Lord! There is a beautiful garden called Kuber to the east of the city. Today, Madhu has gone there with his Queen-consort Jayanti to play sports there. In fact, we went even to the garden. Madhu is absorbed there in playing sports with his queens."