Jain Journal 1977 07

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 14

JAIN JOURNAL
By now Aristanemi had come to prime manhood, Like unto a temple pillar he stood Towering above the flesh-market below In the pure white dawn of his foretold tomorrow. One day he passed into the armoury of Krsna, He took up the great conch Pancajanya. The keeper said, “Only Krsna can blow with force To shake the world at its source." In sport Aristanemi blew the conch, in a gala brawl Tidal waves foamed at the sea wall, Purple smoke rolled in bazaar-town And Krsna cried, "O, god come down !” When Krsna saw the cousin, his lip grew hot, He declared a test of strength on the spot. Aristanemi said gently, “If we must, Let us bend arms.” At once Krsna thrust Forth his arm that Aristanemi bent easily Yet Nemi's arm held like an ironwood tree To Krsna, who then retired in poor face With Balarama to a worrisome place. The loyal brother said, "Fear not for thy sovereignty, Heed the olden prophecy, In the dust he stamps a conch footmark, On a saintly mission he will embark.” In gay voice Krsna cried, "To my pleasure pavilion, Sixteen-thousand maidens in gold and vermilion ! Ye Strong-armed! Ye may receive Choicest favor by my leave." Coils, O, coils of silk blonde perfume Yet Aristanemi stood now a pillar of gloom. Krsna said, “As well ye refuse to marry Yet I offer an untried name, Rajimati, Daughter to our King Ugrasena, a lotus flower In blush for a bridegroom this very hour." ... Dare his neck vein tremble ? Yes From previous births, perhaps, he visions this damsel ! Dvaraka was a grand festival, Blossoms and pennants for the procession royal And the dancing, tasseled drums In drum rolls cried, "The bridegroom comes !" Yes, in the gold-crowned chariot Rode Aristanemi, his reluctance forgot