________________
178
JAIN RAMAYAN
"Yes mothers! It is a fact. Wherever Shri Ram and Laksh. man went, they met several princesses and promised to marry them. Now they have married those princesses."
“But you never told us about all this earlier.”, said Sumitra.
"How could he tell us about all those things ? Women are like cobras in his eyes. My son, Bharath is the very embodiment of the spirit of renunciation.” Kausalya said humorously.
Bharath was silent. But, Kaikayi could not be silent. She said in a grief-stricken voice. “Bharath has had no peace of mind since the Emperor Dasarath adopted the path of Samyamdharma. The desire to follow the same path has been growing stronger and stronger in Bharath's mind. He always remains detached from wealth and enjoyments. He does not care for worldly pleasures. He does not take interest in amusements, games and sports. Sensual desires can never enter his mind. He spends all his time in carrying out his administrative duties and spends his spare time in meditation and in the worship of the Paramatma. Sometimes, he stands at the window of his palace for hours together looking at the limitless sky with penetrating eyes as if to explore the mysteries beyond. Sometimes, when I wake up at midnight, I see him carrying out meditation seated in the lotus-posture. Of course, I do not say anything to him because I do not want to wound his feelings. So, I always try to suppress my feelings. I know for certain that he too will one day adopt the path chosen by his father. When I think of this I begin to shudder with grief and fear.” Kaikayi's voice was choked with grief. Her eyes welled up with tears and she kept sobbing for a long time. When her heart grew a little light, she said again. "But dear son ! I will not place any impediments on your way. I will not impede your endeavours to pursue the path of salvation. I am fully aware of your anguish. I can even hear the very voice of your heart which keeps crying for a life of spirituality.”
Kaikayi wept bitterly. Sumitra embraced her and tried to console her and to cheer her up. Kausalya took Bharath into her lap and said in a serious voice :
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
