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192
JAIN RAMAYAN
"This Grantha is entitled Nripalakshana samhitha. That means, it contains a description of the qualities of an ideal king. After we hear your reading of the Grantha and after we understand the qualities of an ideal king if we find in this assembly of kings, princes, Chiefs and potentates anyone who does not possess even a hundredth part of those qualities then that prince should be killed in the court or at least he should be expelled by all the others." On hearing what Sagar raja said all were silent. Absolute silence prevailed in the court for sometime. Then, they began saying something to one another in whispers, and the situation became serious. If anyone opposed King Sagar raja's suggestion it would be evident to others that he was afraid of taking the oath and that those qualities were not present in him. Each one feared that if he opposed it the others would think that he lacked those qualities and that for that reason he was opposing the suggestion. But if the suggestion was accepted it would surely affect the interest of someone or the other. Moreover, the time fixed for the Swayamvar approached. But someone or the other might have to face the calamitous consequence. Everyone felt that king Sagar raja's suggestion was improper, irrelevant and disagreeable. But how could anyone oppose it? Who had the courage to bell the cat? Even king Ayodhan could not oppose it because it was he who had arranged the Swayamvar. It would not be proper on his part to oppose it. All those who had gathered in the royal court were his honoured guests. Whom could he oppose ? and whom could he support? If he opposed it, he would be dishonouring King Sagar raja.
Everyone was silent. "Silence is consent. Since all are silent, I assume that all have given their consent. Vishwabhuti! Now, you may read the book without any hesitation". King Sagar raja said without delay. The tone of his voice showed that he was impatient. Vishwabhuti began reading the Grantha. He interpreted every quality mentioned in the book in such a clever manner that within a short time, it was clear to everyone in the royal court that if there was one in that court, who possessed all those qualities, it was King Sagar raja and if there was anyone in the
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