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XCIV
SHATRUGHNA'S PURVAJANMA
The two Munis Kulabhushan and Deshbhushan happened to visit Ayodhya just when Shatrughna went there. The guard in charge of the gardens conveyed to Shri Ram and others the news relating to the arrival of the Munis. At once, Shri Ram set out to the garden accompanied by Lakshman, Shatrughna and others. Shri Ram saluted the munis who possessed infinite knowledge and supreme enlightenment; and said;
"Revered Lords! Why is my younger brother, Shatrughna so desirous of possessing Mathura ? What is the cause for his inordinate attachment for Mathura ? Why does Mathura fascinate him so much ? I tried my best to prevent him from going to Mathura; but he did not listen to my words. Why was he so insistent ?"
“Dear king! Shatrughna's attachment for Mathura goes back to several janmas. Hence his fascination for Mathura is natural and proper,” said Deshbhushan Muni answering Shri Ram's question. All were amazed. Shri Ram entreated the Muni to explain the cause for it.
Deshbhushan Muni began his narration.
"Oh king! In one of his earlier janmas Shatrughna was a very handsome youth called Sridhar. In the entire city of Mathura no other young man possessed such a fascinating appearance. He was like the veritable god of love and his appearance was captivating. Sridhar was always absorbed in worshipping and meditating upon the lord. His only motto in life was to render service to shramans.
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