Jain Ramayana Part 1

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

Page 24

JAIN RAMAYAN
Yet, we cannot bear with a separation from you. We love you heartily. We are indeed captivated by your intellectual incisiveness, discretion, politeness and your method of carrying out your tasks. Even the very thought of separation from you wounds our hearts grievously. Therefore, do not grieve us by speaking of leaving Lanka, now.” Kirtidhaval spoke in a grave manner. "Dear brother ! You please stay with us,” said Queen Devi adding strength to her husband's entreaty.
"Yes! If you do not think it proper to stay here, you can stay in the Vanardweep which is close to the Rakshasdweep. Even the archipelago comprising such islands as 'Simhal and Barbarakula is our own. Think that it is a veritable heaven. You can choose any one of these islands and you can make it
over the area enjoying the felicities of peace and prosperity”.
Shrikant found it impossible to break off the deep bonds of love and affection which his sister and brother-in-law had developed for him; and he could not but accept the suggestion of Kirtidhaval. So, he decided to act according to his brother-inlaw's suggestion and chose to reside in the Vanardweep.
There stood in the Vanardweep a magnificent and fascinating mountain called Kishkinda. Shrikant built a new capital by name Kishkindha on the mountain of Kishkinda; and made it his Capital. Kirtidhaval the emperor of Lanka proclaimed Shrikant, the King of the Vanardweep; and crowned him King of that country.
Shrikant settled down at Kishkindha with his beloved wife, Padma; and began carrying out the administration with unexampled skill and ability. He was always thinking of the ways of increasing the welfare and progress of the people. He had abounding love and affection not only for human beings but also for animals and birds.
Once, Vanars (Monkeys) appeared in large numbers in all the forests, woods, groves, gardens, arbours, bowers and bushes of Kishkindha. In size and stature, they were huge and tall and sturdy. They kept leaping and jumping about here and there;