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Leaving Pundarikpur
363
“Dear Lord! We are not insisting on our accompanying you. We merely expressed our desire. That is all.”
At the stipulated time, the Pushpak viman began flying towards Pundarikpur.
A commotion arose in the mind of Sugriv. Countless doubts and fears arose in his mind. "Will Sita agree to return to Ayodhya ? Can she recover from the terrible wound caused to her by the abandonment? I hope that Sita has not developed a spirit of detachment. It is possible that she may not agree to return to Ayodhya. She may plead some pretext to avoid returning to Ayodhya but she has extraordinary affection and love for Lav and Kush. I think, she will surely return to Ayodhya at least for the sake of her children if not for the sake of anyone else but if she minds she can call back Lav and Kush to Pundarikpur. No. No. I will persuade her to return to Ayodhya but I must make this point clear to her, "Shri Ram will surely honour you but he will test your purity.” Later she should not feel that I have deceived her. But why should the great lady fear an ordeal ? Truth fears no danger.”
The Pushpak approached Pundarikpur. It landed at a safe place.
Sugriv sent a message to Sita about their arrival. Sita was greatly delighted to hear about Sugriv's arrival. She received him cordially. He folded his hands and saluted Sita. Sita received him with great honour and hospitality. Sugriv finding a suitable opportunity said to Sita.
"Revered queen! I have come in accordance with Shri Ram's commands. He has sent the Pushpak for you. Therefore kindly accompany me to Ayodhya. Lakshman is eagerly awaiting your arrival. Lav and Kush are anxiously looking for the opportunity of meeting you. The citizens of Ayodhya are eager to receive you."
“Sugriv! Here you are always welcome. How can I return to Ayodhya ? I cannot forget that terrible scene. On that day I was abandoned and left in the dreadful forest of Simhaninad.
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