Jain Ramayana Part 1

Author(s): Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana

Page 23

The Rakshasdweep: The Vanardweep
for its daily occupations and activities. The early morning breeze was blowing gently and softly over the city. The breezy call of the incense-breathing morn impelled even the royal palace to discard the lassitude of the previous night and to wake up with a pleasant surprise at the gleeful touch of the heartwarming breeze: and it was becoming active. At that time, Kirtidhaval, the King of Lanka, his Queen-consort, Devi and Shrikant sat in a magnificently decorated chamber; and were engaged in a frolicsome conversation and witty jests and repartee. But Shrikant was somewhat grave while the others were gay and jubilant. He often glanced at Kirtidhaval and Devi; and remained silent and reticent.
“What is the matter, Shrikant ? "Nothing"
"Nothing! Nothing! I can't believe it. You are concealing something from us .... something that has been agitating your mind”.
"Dear King! Now, I wish to leave this place; and return home,” Shrikant, said this with great difficulty, word after word, slowly as if he pulled every word from his heart on to his lips which seemed to articulate them reluctantly.
"But why, for god's sake ? Has anyone insulted you or illtreated you; or has there been any lapse on our part in the comforts and treatment that have been given to you here ? Is that the reason for your desire to go away from us?”
"There is no such reason, dear King !"
"If so, where is the need for your going away so urgently to Meghpur ? Look Shrikant, many have become your enemies in the Vaithadhya mountain. Under these circumstances, why do you desire to ruin your life being caught in the coils of a dreadful war ? I do not mean that you are afraid of war or that you are daunted by your enemies. You possess the strength and valour to rout your enemies. I also know very well that those who clash with and fight against you will surely become the victims of the all-devouring Death; and court a disaster.