Tales froM Indian Mythology

Author(s): A S Raman
Publisher: Kutub Popular

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Kaveri and Agastya
The inmates of the ashram, however, lived in a different world. They had little interest in the vanities and struggles of the people below. The munibalakas (young hermits) were still in their teens and they had their eyes constantly fixed either on the sastras or on the skies. And their godly Gurudev forgave them their dreams.
It was their first holiday after many, many years. They squatted on a boulder and began to scan the skies which were heavily overcast. "Look!” exclaimed one of them.
"There goes a procession of flying elephants. Oh, it has already swollen to a range of floating mountains. No. Now it has assumed the uncouth form of a colossal giantess and is heading towards us." "I want to ask you all one question," said another. "Can you tell me why Gurudev has declared a holiday today?” Many and spontaneous were the answers.
"Because he believes that we have nearly finished with our studies." -
"No, you have not even begun them. My answer is: Gurudev is expecting a visit from the king."
"No. He is himself going to be honoured at Court." : "Do you think Gurudev needs or cares for royal receptions? My reply to your question is simple. He considers us a nuisance, and wants to have a rest at least once in five years."
"No, that cannot be the answer, because Gurudev has never resented our ways."
"Surely, you know that he is not a complaining type. Thrown among us, has he not assumed the attitude of a martyr? Now, listen to me-all of you. This is the most auspicious day in our lives, because a goddess is going to be in our midst.