Book Title: Tales froM Indian Mythology
Author(s): A S Raman
Publisher: Kutub Popular

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Page 144
________________ 106 Tales from Indian Mythology vasa had already stayed as Kuntibhoja's guest for nearly a year. But there seemed to be no prospect of his leaving at all, though none dared to discuss the question. But everybody pitied poor Kunti. One morning, Durvasa spoke to her tenderly thus : “My child, you have made every minute of my stay in your father's capital most pleasurable and unforgettable. But we sages are not accustomed to a life of ease and enjoyment. So I am afraid I must take leave of you now. Please forgive me for the rigours you had to suffer on my account and, for the sake of your future happiness, please forget all about them. Now I want to grant you whatever boon you will care to ask for.” Overwhelmed by joy, Kunti made obeisance to him and said: "Mahamuni, I have no ambition in life. I am, however, flattered by your gracious promise to grant me a boon. I seek none. My opportunity to serve you all these days was a reward in itself, and I shall always cherish my memories of it." "No, my precious child, you cannot say you do not desire anything. You are only ten and you have a whole lifetime before you. So do not talk like an old recluse. Perhaps you are too shy to share your secret desires with me. But I can fathom them. A woman's true happiness lies among her children. May all the mothers in the world envy you when your future sons become the greatest heroes ever born! Let me teach you a mantra by chanting which you can summon any god you like and ask him to bless you with a son embodying his own divine power, prowess and personality.” He beckoned to her to his side and whispered a Vedic incantation in her ear. "But do not abuse it," he cautioned her. "It is too precious. I have confidence in your sense of propriety. Of course, you will in Jain Education International For Personal & Private Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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