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142
JAIN RAMAYAN
Ravan got ready to set off to the battle-field accompanied by countless mighty heroes. Mandodari decked his forehead with the mark of victory. She performed Aarthi to him. Just then, the gold cup containing kumkum fell off her gold plate but Ravan did not care for it. In fact, he did not pay any attention to it. He ascended his chariot and ordered his charioteer to drive him to the battle-field. Just then the courtpriest said:
“Dear Emperor! Do not be in a hurry. There have been no auspicious omens. On the contrary, we have witnessed only inauspicious omens.”
"Revered Sir! You know I am Ravan. I do not care for omens. The valiant never fear bad omens. Their outstanding heroism itself is a good omen. Charioteer! Drive on!"
“No, dear Lord! This war will not bring any benefit to the Rakshasa dynasty. It will not bring any benefit to Lanka and its royal family. Please pause a little. The cries and lamentations of women are in the air. It is not at all proper to proceed to the battle-field at such a time as this."
"I do not care for omens. Charioteer! Drive on!”
Ravan thundered out. The Charioteer drove the chariot. The Court-priest looked gloomily towards Mandodari and heaved a deep sigh. Mandodari shook with a mortal dread. Her heart began to palpitate. Her right eye-lid shook. She was filled with horror and dread.
"Revered Queen! What is the use of standing mute and motionless ? Try to console yourself. Try to give your agitation and anger and forget yourself in spiritual austerities. Destiny makes men blind to the future. All this is the mockery of destiny. Today's war will not bring us joy but what can we do? We are after all clay-dolls, dancing to the tunes of karmas on the stage of life ? Revered Queen ! Go to your chamber and engage yourself in auspicious contemplations so that it may bring some felicity to the Emperor.”
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