Jain Stories 03

Author(s): Mahendramuni, K C Lalwani
Publisher: A B Jain Shwetambar Terapanth Samaj

Page 65

MRIGANKALEKHA
These words of the Kinnara pierced through Sagarchandra's heart 'Mrignnkalekha is honest, says this Kinnara', this thought rolled again and again and created a tumult in his mind Meanwhile, the Kinnara got up, picked up his wife and resumed his flight The lady did not even get a chance to thank her benefactor As a mark of gratitude, however, she sent for him two gifts, one the root of a plant and the other a herb The application of the paste from the former at the feet gave one the power to fly in the air, while the application of the latter on the forehead made it possible for one to change his form Sagarchandra gladly accepted them
In the disturbed state of Sagarchandra's mind, there arose waves of thought These condemned him and pricked him for his behaviour towards his wife How cruel he has been to her without caring to know how honest she yas' He was now restless to go back to her at once and make amends for his misdeeds He returned to his camp and held consultation with his friend Dhanamitra Dhanamitra at once approved of the idea, adding that delay might bring in further complications
· Both the friends used the root and were soon in the sky. and withis a short time, they were at the door of the lady's apartment Dhanamitra went first to break the good news, but Mrigankalekha did not recognise him She mistook him to be a wicked fellow and chased at him Dhanamitra said,
“My sister! You recognise me not But I have a good news for you My friend Sagarchandra is penitent now and has come For bringing him, you should give me sweets rather than harsh words”
Sagarchandra now joined Mrigankalekha had no more doubt in the truth of Dhanamitra's words Sagarchandra