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The Conquest of Mathura by Shatrughna
241
"Dear Shatrughna !"
At once, Shatrughna stood up. He bowed to Shri Ram; and came towards him a few paces. Shri Ram said stroking his head for any kingdom.”
“Dear brother! What do you desire to do? Which area do you like to rule over? I will give you whichever area you like.”
For a few moments, Shatrughna was absorbed in thought. Shri Ram said again affectionately.
"Why are you silent ? Speak out your mind. You may ask for any kingdom.”
“Dear brother! Kindly give me Mathura,” Shatrughna said humbly, after thinking a little.
"Mathura! This is absolutely impossible. It is simply not possible. Don't you know that the king of Mathura, King Madhu possesses a divine weapon by name Shul (a trident) of tremendous power. His friend of an earlier janma, Chamarendra gave him that weapon. Its power is such that it destroys anyone against whom it is released. It is an infallible weapon and when once it is released, it will not return without destroying the enemy. It has miraculous powers.” Shri Ram said glancing towards Lakshman. Lakshman was deeply absorbed in thought.
Madhu had not attended the coronation ceremony. He was not prepared to accept the supremacy of Ayodhya. So, Shri Ram did not like to provoke Madhu but since Shatrughna had expressed the desire of capturing and ruling over Mathura, Shri Ram had to think of it seriously.
"Revered brother ! You know very well whose brother I am. I am the brother of the mighty heroes Shri Ram and Lakshman who by virtue of their extraordinary abilities captured the Rakshasdweep and destroyed Ravan who was reputed to be a world-conqueror. Therefore, dear brother! Kindly grant me Mathura. I am ready to face and rout king Madhu."
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