________________
342
JAIN RAMAYAN
their soldiers were killed in thousands. Bhamandal could not bear to see this. He thought, “There is no doubt that the Vidyadhar heroes like Sugriv will destroy the soldiers of Lav and Kush. Therefore I should leap into the war.” Accordingly, leaving Sita in a secure place he rose into the sky and began to fight against the enemies.
A terrible war took place between the two armies.
King Vajrajang was Lav's charioteer and King Prithu was driving the chariot of Kush. Lay roared like a lion and said to Vajrajang “First take me into the midst of Ram's armies."
At once, Vajrajang drove the chariot against Ram's army. The chariot of Kush also drove against Ram's army. The two princes sent showers of tremendous arrows and created a commotion in Ram's army.
Sugriv was greatly astonished to see Bhamandal. His amazement and eagerness knew no bounds. He stood mute thinking, "What is this? Bhamandal is a great devotee of Shri Ram and he is fighting on the side of his enemies. This is really amazing." Sugriv at once went up to Bhamandal and said.
"Bhamandal! What is this? You are fighting on the side of the enemies and who are these two princes ?”
“They are Shri Ram's sons !"
“What did you say? Are they sons of Shri Ram ? I am unable to believe it."
"Sugriy! I have spoken the truth. Moreover Sita also is in a tent here."
“Really, brother !” Sugriv's joy knew no bounds.
Sugriv at once rushed to Vibhishan. The two conversed with each other in whispers for sometime. The two kings left the battle-field and went to see Sita. Sita was in the tent of Lav and Kush. They saluted Sita's feet and sat before her on the ground.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
