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JAIN RAMAYAN
the king of Mathura received the news of the arrival of Ravan, he came happily, with the members of his family, ministers and courtiers, in order to receive Ravan with honour and hospitality. They embraced each other affectionately and began conversing about their welfare and progress. All of a sudden, Ravan's eyes fell on prince Madhu who sat beside his father Harivahan,
king of Mathura; and he was startled. Prince Madhu was sweet-looking like honey and was very radiant. His body which seemed to be spouting forth honey fascinated everyone by its extraordinary grace and charm. Sweet smiles decked his face which was like an unsullied vessel of nectar.
Ravan kept gazing at him for sometime; and he was greatly astonished. He saw the weapon called "Shul" (spear) which was with Madhu. It was not a toy or play-thing carried to be seen by others; it was indeed a divine weapon. The King of Lanka was amazed by its radiance, its form and the heroism it suggested by its very appearance.
He said to King Harivahan. "Oh King ! How did the prince attain this extraordinary weapon ?"
King Harivahan suggested to the prince by means of a sign to narrate the story. Accordingly, the prince began to narrate the story in a tender voice.
"Oh you revered King! A wonderful and thrilling story is hidden behind this "Shul”.
“Dear child! We wish to hear the story. It will surely delight us. You may narrate it without any hesitation.” Ravan said, sitting near him and stroking affectionately on his back.
Prince Madhu began to narrate his story.
"Once, on a certain silent and starry night, I sat at the window of the top storey of my magnificent palace; enjoying the beauties of nature. I was deeply absorbed in contemplating on the sky brightened by millions of stars. Peace and silence held their sway everywhere. All were sleeping soundly. The moon was playing hide and seek with stars in the cool air. The
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