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open area howling with fear. He asked the driver, “Man! Why such large number and variety of animals have been cordoned?” The driver courteously replied, “Prabho!" These animals are to be butchered to provide different varieties of meat preparations for the non-vegetarian members of your marriage party.”
Shocked with the reply, Nemikumāra uttered, “Driver! Please stop the chariot. These mute animals will not be butchered in name of my marriage. I have no desire for such marriage. Please set the animals free.” The driver stopped the chariot and at once set the animals free. Filled with compassion the prince stared at the animals running and leaping away with relief and joy of freedom. His compassion saw no bounds. He was filled with disgust for ephemeral mundane pleasures. He decided to pursue the path of eternal happiness and not get ensnared in these fleeting pleasures. He discarded the ornaments he was wearing and returned to Dvārakā. He sought permission from his parents, relatives and friends and left for jungle. Kșşņa's plan succeeded.
INITIATION OF BHAGAVĀNA
Innumerable gods, kings of gods, and humans followed Bhagavāna. He came to Giranāra hills and halting at a place he discarded his dress and regalia. Pulling out his hair he set down in lotus-posture, uttered “Om Namo Siddhebhyaḥ” and commenced his meditation. Along with him many other people also turned into unclad ascetics.
INITIATION OF RĀJĪMATI
In the bridal dress Rājula appeared to be the queen of gods personified. She was dreaming of the enchanting union with her beloved. Her dreamland disintegrated with the blast of news that Nemikumāra has renounced marriage and become an ascetic. She became unconscious and collapsed. When she regained consciousness she kept on crying for some time. She uttered sobbing; "He has been my husband for last nine births. Even during this life he is my object of worship. He has not abandoned me. He has, in fact, gestured me to come after him. I will follow the path he took.”
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