Jain Ramayana Part 2

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

Page 18

6
JAIN RAMAYAN
Behind his chariot, there were countless princes, kings, relatives and friends travelling on elephants, horses or in chariots.
The golden rays of the sun shot out from the east. Gentle breezes were blowing in a slow and pleasant manner. Birds were flying in the sky making pleasant and musical cries. The atmosphere was exciting and delightful. The marriage-party was proceeding along a highway on one side of which there stood long and high mountain-ranges; and on the other side of which flowed the Sarayu river with its cool and pellucid water. The brothers-in-law, Udayasundar and Vajrabahu were engaged in a delightful conversation. At the same time, Vajrabahu was observing the sky-high peaks of the mountain-ranges. His heart was swinging with joy at the sight of the magnificent beauty of nature created by Vidhata, the creator. He suddenly asked;
"Dear Prince! Do you know what these mountain-ranges
are ?"
"Why not? This range of mountains is called Vasantadri." "Indeed, it appears as though it is always spring here."
Vajrabahu said admiring the magnificence of the Vasantadri. Suddenly, his eyes fell upon a peak which was not clearly visible. He began watching it with fixed eyes. He noticed a Mahamuni standing in meditation on that peak.
The tender days of the rising sun were playing on the face of the Muni. His face looked resplendent in the golden splendour of the sun. He looked radiant as if he was reflecting on the sublime path that leads to Shivapuri or the supreme state.
Why does the peacock dance with elation at the sight of clouds ?
Why does the bee keep buzzing joyfully at the sight of a lotus ?
Vajrabahu also began to sway with delight at the sight of the great Muni.