________________
134
JAIN RAMAYAN
People began to throng the upashrayas to hear discourses and to attain enlightenment. Devotional activities were organised in temples. Gifts were given generously to the poor and the destitute. A revolutionary change appeared in the atmosphere of Lanka.
When Shri Ram's spies heard the proclamation, they were amazed, and shocked. They had not even dreamt of such a possibility. What could be the reason for such a proclamation at the time of war? Was Ravan, fearing defeat, seeking the refuge of dharma ? Or has any extarordinary event occurred ? They thought of various possibilities. They at once began searching for the secret cause for this proclamation and they also discovered the cause. At once they hurried back to their camp. They conveyed to Sugriv whatever information they had gathered. Now it was Sugriv's turn to be amazed and shocked. He at once rushed to Shri Ram's tent. Shri Ram and Lakshman were discussing their future plans with Vibhishan, Bhamandal, Angadh, Viradh and Prasannakirthi. Shri Ram welcomed Sugriv; offered him a seat by his side and said with eagerness :
“Dear king of Vanaras! What's the matter? What may be the purpose of your hurried visit ?"
“Dear lord! Have you heard about the proclamation made in Lanka ?”
"No! In Lanka .. ? What kind of proclamation has been made ?"
"O you compassionate one! In Lanka a proclamation is being made with drum-beats that for eight days from today all should live according to the principles of dharma and that they should discard such evils as violence and that they should not do any work during these eight days. Moreover, it is announced that anyone who breaks this royal command will be given capital punishment."
“What may be the purpose behind this proclamation ?”
"It is the purpose that shocks and amazes us. The purpose is to keep the common people in a mood of elation. Meanwhile,
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
