________________
Bhamandal's Death
Kush and others saluted their mother and other sadhvis and returned to Ayodhya.
*
Soon after returning to Ayodhya, Bhamandal approached Shri Ram. Shri Ram made enquiries regarding Sita's welfare, Bhamandal said politely: "Oh you revered one! The revered Sadhvi Sita has been carrying out severe spiritual austerities in consequence of which she has grown withered physically. She is always engaged in her endeavours to attain Moksha. Oh ! what a severe and unperturbed life she has been leading! She is totally detached from all worldly objects; and is not blackened by any passions. In fact, she has made her human state of existence fruitful. Bhamandal could not restrain his tears of joy. Shri Ram heard Bhamandal's words with deep absorption. He visualized Sita; and thought deeply about the situation.
425
"Revered lord! In fact, I too feel magnetically drawn towards a life of detachment and renunciation. Only then can the human state of existence be a step towards spiritual perfection" Bhamandal said; and he began looking towards the sky in an intensely emotional manner.
Shri Ram kept looking at him for a while. He said nothing. Bhamandal went away to the palace of Lav and Kush. After food, he sat conversing with them but a great commotion was raging in his mind.
"Now dear children! I wish to fulfil a desire of mine. After that I will receive initiation into the Sadhudharma and lead a sinless life". Bhamandal said suddenly.
"What desire is it, dear uncle ?"
"For some years, I have been desiring that we should establish our supremacy over the entire Vaithadhya region. We should conquer the entire Vidyadhar world and then I will adopt the Charitradharma".
"Uncle! This is not at all impossible for you. You have such mighty and heroic allies as Vibhishan, Sugriv, and Hanu
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org