Tales froM Indian Mythology

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

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Tales from Indian Mythology
one life, even if it be that of the most diabolical despot on earth. If you think my death will bring you deliverance from the curse that is on you, I am prepared to face it cheerfully.”
"Oh, stupid, insipid talk, as usual. It really matters little whether men such as you are dead or alive."
"If you ask me, I have an assurance for you. You will not die soon, since your sin is not ripe enough. So I suggest you go slow with it and thus prolong your own life.”
"Sin! What does it mean? Is it sin for soldiers to wage wars, and win them? Is it sin for a spirited, selfless young man to rescue his fellow-citizens from the impotent rule of an old idiot Is it sin for kings to crush opposition, so that they may serve their subjects in the best manner possible? Is it sin for practical administrators to refuse to waste their precious lives in the pursuit of such wild illusions as God and Heaven ? Is it sin for princes to seek sensual pleasures of which your socalled Heaven, wherever it may be, must be reeking, I am sure ? Is it sin for statesmen to work for a new and virile social order capable of defending itself without the assistance of a supernatural force which does not exist ? Is it sin for Kshatriyas to aspire for more power and for greater and greater material success in all walks of life?”
"I do not care for your questions which shall be answered in Heaven or Hell, wherever you happen to go ultimately. Now I await your punishment for speaking the truth."
"Get away, you conceited old fool. I have no use for you, and you shall be executed in the market-place today-before sunset. Get away, I say !"
It was ashtami, the eighth day, after the Sravan full-moon. A cool and pleasant night, indeed, even for Devaki and Vasu