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Ativirya's Predicament
previous night. In consequence, King Mahidhar's affection and regard for Lakshman increased a hundredfold. He was greatly delighted to hear all this, and he took Shri Ram, Sita and Lakshman into the city with honour. Joy and jubilation filled the
atmosphere.
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421
Shri Ram accepted King Mahidhar's invitation and agreed to stay at Vijayapur for sometime.
The court met, King Mahidhar sat on his throne. Shri Ram and Sita also sat on thrones beside him. The activities of the Court were in progress. Some decisions relating to the government were being taken. Just then a guard came in; and said politely:
"My Lord! A messenger has arrived from Nandyavartpur. He desires to appear before you."
"Let him come in."
The messenger came in; saluted King Mahidhar and said; My lord, Ativirya, the king of
"Victory to the King! Nandyavarthapur has sent me to you."
"What may be his purpose in sending you here ?"
"Dear Lord, it has become inevitable for our King Ativirya to make a war against King Bharath of Ayodhya. Countless kings and potentates are extending their support to the king of Ayodhya. You are a mighty hero. Our king's desire is that you should join us and extend your co-operation to us in this war."
After the messenger had communicated his message, King Mahidhar glanced towards Lakshman. Lakshman asked the messenger, "Dear messenger! What exactly is the cause for the war between your king and King Bharath ?"
"Oh you hero! Our King Ativirya strongly desires that Bharath, the king of Ayodhya must accept his supremacy and overlordship. Accordingly, he sent a message to King Bharath to that effect but he has rejected our king's desire. So at present a war has become unavoidable."
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