Disclaimer: This translation does not guarantee complete accuracy, please confirm with the original page text.
266
In the Mahapurana, the Uttara Purana, after the Pariṣvajya, Anu-yu-jya, Anga, Kṣema, and Vata, it is declared that:
254
Those who reside within the Dakṣiṇābdhi (Southern Ocean)
255
And the fifty-four great islands, followers of the Cakravartin,
256
And Keśava, by his own greatness, protects them.
257
Among these islands, there is one called Lanka, adorned with the Trikūṭa mountain.
258
In it, after the four generations of the descendants of Vinamika, the Vidyadhara kings,
259
Who were always eager to protect their subjects, passed away,
260
There arose a wicked king named Rāvaṇa, a thorn in the side of the world, a libertine among women.
261
Then, one day, Nārada, desiring war,
262
Described to him the beauty, grace, and radiance of Sītā.
263
At that very moment, Rāvaṇa's mind was pierced by the irresistible arrows of Kāmadeva.
264
His intelligence and fortitude were shattered. He was a magician, far removed from the path of righteousness.
265
"Coming secretly, by some means, I have brought Sītā, the queen, to my city.
266
I will not return until the time for our efforts arrives.
267
Until then, I must protect my own body," he said to his beloved Sītā.
268
"Let the prince send his own best messenger," he said, calming her.
269
Understanding the meaning of his father's letter, Rama's grief subsided, but he was filled with anger.
270
He said, "Does Rāvaṇa wish to ascend to the lap of Yama?"
271
"What chance does a rabbit have against a lion's cub?
272
It is true that when death approaches, one's intelligence is quickly destroyed."
273
Thus, with words filled with anger, Rama expressed his rage.
274
Then, Lakshmana, Janaka, Bharata, and Śatrughna, hearing the news,
275
Approached Rama, greeted him with respect, and, seeing his wise counsel,
276
With words, they sought to alleviate his grief. They said,
277
"Rāvaṇa, by stealing another's wife, has brought disgrace upon himself.
278
He is a traitor, a wicked man, and a follower of unrighteousness.
279
Since he has done this evil deed without thought, he deserves to be burned by Sītā's curse.
280
The sins of those who commit great sins bear fruit in this very life.
281
Let us think of some way to bring Sītā back."
282
Thus, persuaded by them, Rama became alert, as if he had awakened from sleep.