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260
JAIN RAMAYAN
Lakshman, at once, went to Shri Ram. He informed Shri Ram of what he had heard from Narad, and of his own determination. Shri Ram happily gave his consent to Lakshman's plan.
Lakshman issued orders to the commander to get ready for a war, and to make urgent preparations for a war.
On an auspicious day, Lakshman and Shri Ram sat in an airship and proceeded towards the Vaithadhya mountains. The vast army of Ayodhya surrounded the city of Ratnapur. Camping outside the city, Lakshman sent a message to king Ratnarath.
"Vasudev, Lakshman is desirous of marrying your daughter, Manorama. If you agree to this proposal, we can avoid unnecessary violence and bloodshed; otherwise we will be constrained to take recourse to a war."
King Ratnarath did not give a cordial reply to Lakshman's message; on the other hand, he made speedy preparations for a war. The war broke out, but within a few hours, Lakshman defeated Ratnarath and captured him.
The war ended suddenly. Lakshman entered the city in triumph and exultation. The court assembled. Lakshman released King Ratnarath, and said to him respectfully.
"Dear king! Please bring your daughter to our presence. I will marry her only if she willingly agrees to marry me; otherwise I will not compel her to marry me.”
King Ratnarath had met Lakshman for the first time. That was the first time he saw Lakshman. He was greatly impressed with Lakshman's fascinating appearance, and his militaric skill and superhuman heroism. He thought. "Lakshman is really fit to be a bridegroom for my daughter. From all points of view, he is an ideal husband to my daughter". Thinking thus, he sent for Manorama. In obedience to her father's instruction, Manorama appeared in the court. Feeling shy and timid, she bowed to Shri Ram. When she saw Lakshman, she felt a thrill shoot
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