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Sorrow and Joy
345
Viradh was Lakshman's charioteer. King Prithu was driving the chariot of Kush. They were driving the chariots with extraordinary ability and tact. The two charioteers were equal in skill and ability.
Within the twinkling of an eye, a terrible war broke out hetween the two heroes. The chariots flashed over the battlefield like lightnings; and the heroes released terrible arrows against each other in their endeavour to defeat each other. Lav knew very well that he was fighting against his father but Shri Ram did not know that he was fighting against his son. Lav was carrying out the fight with great care and caution. Shri Ram was out to destroy the enemies. On the other side Kush and Lakshman were carrying out a fight. Kush confounded Lakshman with his might. Viradh and Prithu were driving their chariots with great ability and tact. Kush released miraculous devices and his heroism would fascinate even the greatest gods.
Shri Ram released all the miraculous weapons he had; yet he was merely defending himself. He did not have the desire or enthusiasm to destroy the enemy. Overcome with gloom, he said to Kritantavadan :
“Kritant! Stop the chariot somewhere."
Kritantyadan at once carried out Shri Ram's command. He stopped the chariot at a distance from Lav. The armies of Ayodhya fought against Lav using all their might and skill. Shri Ram said to Kritantavadan.
"How long can the war go on thus? If it continues thus, it can never end. Take my chariot towards the enemy, I will capture him alive."
"Dear lord ! Today's war has been tedious. Our horses are tired. The enthusiasm of our elephants is exhausted. The enemies have heaped destruction on our cavalry and infantry. Their bodies have been pierced with envenomed arrows. Therefore, they are unable to fight. Even our chariot has been broken by the enemy, and I am unable to drive the horses.
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