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HARIBALA
Harıbala now displayed the marvel of his intellect and imagination. He started his narrative :
"Your Majesty ! After my mortal frame had been turned coto ashes, I went to the abode of Death where at the main entrance I met its keeper, Baidhyata He announced my arrival to Chitragupta, the keeper of records Chitragupta was somewhat surprised to see me there before time When I told him the purpose of my coming, he welcomed me and arranged an interview with Death I was conducted into the presence of His Majesty the Yama by two attendants named Chanda and Mahachanda”
Taking meticulous care to provide the details, he continued :
“One who goes on a mission to an auspicious man gets unexpected results This happened to me Death usually never looks at a stranger with grace His big and red-shot eyes, his curved brows, long teeth, curled hairs, pitchy dark «complexion, like a newmoon night, fat limbs-all generate fear if he emits a shout, that causes ostantaneous death to many. I was very nervous to see all this But in a moment, when his eyes fell on me, he was a changed person. His eyes showered nectar on me and he was in a happy mood At once, I and the two attendants bowed before him Then the atlendants submitted my file before thim for his perusal Its top flap contained a note as follows:
Haribala is exceedingly faithful to his master. He never cares for his own life for the fulfilment of even the most difficult of assignments given by the master. It is in fulfilment of one such assignment that he is here as his master's envoy
Death was mightily pleased to read this pote He cordially received me and gave me a seat in the midst of bis own courtiers He asked me many questions about my family, Your Majesty, the chief minister and about the country. At the right moment, I unfolded the purpose of my visit and Death was gracious enough to accept the
