________________
162
CHAPTER FIVE from a cowherd that the two arjunas had been uprooted by Kțşņa like an elephant, Nanda came with Yaśodā. They kissed Kșşņa, gray with dust, affectionately on the head and the herdsmen called him ' Dāmodara 'from tying with the rope.
He, dearer than life, was held on breast, hip, and head day and night by the cowherds and milkmaids. He took the fresh butter from the churns mischievously and was not hindered by the herdsmen, gentle from affection, looking at his curious performances. He gave joy to Yaśodā, Nanda, and the herdsmen, whether talking, wandering about, fighting, or eating. Afraid of accidents, they were not able to prevent him going about, but only followed him, fettered by the bonds of affection.
Daśārha heard that he had killed Sakuni and Pūtanā, overturned the cart, and destroyed the two arjunas. He reflected: “I concealed the son, but he is becoming known by his strength. May Kansa not find out about him. Even if he does find out, may he not be able to do anything unfavorable to him. Which one of my sons can I send to Krşņa's aid? Akrūra and the others are known to Kansa who has cruel ideas. Rāma is a good one to assign, since he is not known to him now.”
Making this decision, Sauri had Rohiņi and Rāma brought from Kośală 173 and, having talked with them, sent them to Sauryapura. One day he summoned Rāma and told him everything in detail, gave him instructions, and turned him over to Yaśodā and Nanda as a son. The two, ten bows tall, handsome, played, watched unwinkingly by the milkmaids whose work was neglected. Kșşņa studied archery and all the arts at Rāma's side, always having assistance bestowed by the herdsmen. Sometimes as friends, sometimes as, teacher and pupil, they did various things, never separated even for a moment. Keśava seized by the tail excited bulls as they went
173 150. Jove must have nodded. There has been no mention of Rohini and Rāma going to Kośală. Presumably they have been in Sauryapura, since Vasudeva collected his wives and went there; See p. 152.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
