Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra Part 1

Author(s): Hemchandracharya, Helen M Johnson
Publisher: Oriental Research Institute Vadodra

Page 295

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even though insignificant, is to be disregarded, prepare now for his conquest. Enough of delay."
The Lord of Bharata, at once embraced by anger and its extinction, like a mountain by a forest-fire and rain-clouds, said : “On the one hand, a younger brother does not obey my command; that is a cause of shame. On the other hand, a fight with a younger brother; that is painful. If a man's command is not obeyed at home, his command is ridiculous outside. If I endure a younger brother's disrespect, I am disgraced. On the one hand, it is the king's duty to destroy the pride of the insolent; on the other, there is the question of good brotherly relations with a brother. Alas! I have fallen into a dilemma.” The minister replied: “Your younger brother himself will solve the dilemma which exists for Your Majesty because of your own dignity. For the command must be given by the elder, and must be carried out by the younger. This custom has been observed even by ordinary householders. By sending a messenger let Your Majesty also give a command to your younger brother according to the custom observed by the people. If your younger brother, thinking himself a hero, will not endure the command honored by all the world, as a lion will not endure a saddle, then Your Majesty, whose command is as powerful as Pākaśāsana's, should punish him. The people will not blame you, because you are not transgressing the customs of the people.” The King replied “Very well," to this speech. For speech in accordance with the śāstras and the customs of the people must be accepted.
Then the King, after giving instructions, despatched a messenger, named Suvega, skilled in polity, eloquent, courageous, to Bāhubali. After taking his Master's instructions like an initiation into messengership, possessing cleverness, Suvega mounted his chariot and went to Takşaśilā. Attended by good soldiers, with a chariot of unequaled speed, he left Vinitā, like an