Part 6 - Yuddha Kanda (English translation)

RAMA EMBRACES HANUMAN Hanuman was able to make Rama get ready for the rescue operations in search of Sita. Rama wanted to give him something. He embraced Hanuman saying "This is all that I have got now. This I give you". SUGRIVA CONSOLES RAMA Then Sugriva, the friend of Rama spoke to Rama, the destroyer of the foe, "There is no need for you to become anxious. It is easy to a cross the ocean by building bridge across the waters". Then Rama encouraged by Sugriva's words said, "The bridge must be built or the entire ocean must be dried up. I shall manage to cross over by some means or by the power of my austerities". Hanuman gave a detailed of the forts account the huge city had and unassailable ramparts set with gold and precious stones. It has four huge gateways, securely sealed with doors, surrounded by great moats. Hanuman said that Lanka was situated on Trikuta mountain. It was surrounded on all sides by the ocean. Thousands of demons were keeping guard over the city day and night. 225

RAMA GIVES MARCHING ORDER The monkeys Nila, Gaja, Gavaya, Gavaksa were leading the monkey army. Gandamadana and Rsabha guarded both the sides of the army. Jambavan, Susena and others took care of the middle portion of the army. Thus the army began to march in a disciplined manner. They crossed Sahya and Malaya mountain and at last they came to the shore of the southern ocean. Then Rama arranged for the Mantralochana". At the same time Rama's heart was filled with thoughts of Sita's sufferings. RAVANA CONSULTS WITH THE CHIEF RAKSASAS Now in Lanka also, Ravana had called for a Mantralochana because he now thought that it was most likely that Hanuman and other monkeys would invade Lanka. So he spoke to the assembly, calling for the steps to be taken to ensure safety and security¹³. The demons were not wise enough to weigh the strength and weakness of both the opponents. They said the great warrior Indrajit who had vanquished Indra in a battle and effected his capture. It was only at the intervention of Brahma that Indra was released and there was no need for such a mighty warrior as Ravana to be afraid of Rama¹4. 226

PRAHASTA TALKS BOASTFULLY Some of the demons like Prahasta stood up and told Ravana, "We were not aware of the arrival of Hanuman and that was why Hanuman managed to do a lot of damage to Lanka. Vajradhamstra " stood up and said, & Some of us must go and tell Rama that we were sent by Bharata as Bharata wanted Rama to return to Ayodhya. Rama and Laksmana would not be able to fight against them as they would be under the impression that they were not demons but Bharata's men. Vajradhamstra wanted such a cunning device to be adopted for winning the monkeys and Rama 16 VIBHISANA'S SAGE COUNSEL As the demons like Nikumba jumped one after another in that assembly talking all sorts of nonsense, Vibhisana rose up to give sage counsel to Ravana. He said, "It is not right to fight against Rama and others. It would be much better to surrender Sita to Rama and make peace with Rama as otherwise it would end in the ruin of Ravana and all the millions of demons"17. After the meeting was dissolved Vibhisana went to Ravana and advised him to return Sita to Rama. 7 227

RAVANA HOLDS A COUNCIL But Ravana was not in a mood to listern to the wise advice of Vibhisana, Then Ravana invited all the great demons once again for a L counsil meeting. Kumbhakarna was also present at the meeting. Ravana said to the assembly that the monkeys under the leadership of Rama and Sugriva had assembled on the other side of the ocean. He said, "I seek your advice in this matter". Then Kumbhakarna spoke thus²º. KUMBHAKARNA CENSURES RAVANA He said, "Oh, Brother, you have not cared to follow the wise guidelines provided in political sastras. Just as a person is prone to terrible disease by the adulterated food, grief has come unto you as you have acted according to your will, without consulting the wise 11 ministers 21. Mahaparsva gave a peculiar suggestion that Ravana could force Sita to surrender to his passion. Ravana on hearing Mahaparsva's words disclosed a secret of Brahma's curse pronounced upon him. Vibhisana told Ravana, "It would be safe if you surrender Sita to Rama and prostrate at Rama's feet. Do not place any faith or trust in the words of Prahasta and the other flatterers who do not know anything 223 about the might of Rama 23. 228

INDRAJIT TAUNTS VIBHISANA Indrajit started speaking against Vibhisana's proposal. Indrajit boasted about his own great strength and he reminded Ravana that he had already vanquished the great Indra himself. "It is a matter of great shame that a person born in Pulastya family should speak in such terms as your younger brother Vibhisana had spoken". Then Vibhisana told Indrajit, "You are actually bringing about the ruin of your father"24 RAVANA REPRIMANDS VIBHISANA Ravana joined Indrajit and spoke in the same indecent and haughty manner. "You are actually my enemy. If another had spoken as you have done, he would not be living or would have been banished from the country". Vibhisana who was thus spoken by the king, along with four of his ministers, stationing himself in the air, to his brother 25. Vibhisana said, "You do not tread the path of Dharma. It is all the more rare to find a person listening to good advice and sticking to it. Be happy and protect the city in my absence" 26. VIBHISANA SEEKS RAMA'S FRIENDSHIP Then Vibhisana left the place and went straight to Rama's camp. He remained in the sky with his four ministers. When Sugriva ordered the monkeys to slaughter the Raksasas, he cried aloud from his place 229

towards Rama, "Oh great monkeys, kindly tell Rama that a devotee has come seeking asylum in him". RAMA GIVES VIBHISANA ASYLUM Rama held a counsel of all the great monkeys and wanted to know their opinion. Each one of the monkeys gave his own idea and they were all against accepting Vibhisana. But Hanuman the best of wisdom and maks l counselors, who had the true who was the only one favoured the idea of A accepting Vibhisana into Rama's fold. Rama remembered the words of the great Sage Kandu. Kandu clearly stated that once a man seeks protection, he must be granted asylum even if he happens to be an enemy. Sugriva at once admitted Vibhisana's alliance 29. Then Vibhisana approached Rama and was treated by Rama with great affection and respect. Rama was pleased with Vibhisana's behaviour and promised to make him the king of Lanka after killing Ravana³. VIBHISANA ADVISES RAMA TO PROPITIATE THE OCEAN Vibhisana Pattabhishekam was duly consecrated by Laksmana on the banks of the sea. It was Vibhisana's suggestion that Rama should pray to the Ocean god and seek his blessings before crossing the ocean. Rama lay on the Darba grass facing east and prayed to the Sea God without eating anything or even drinking water for three days. With the 230

་ *. rama rama ma rama rama rama rama rama rama

intention of creating a rift between Rama and Sugriva, Ravana sent a spy called Suka who was advised by Sardula. He cried aloud to Sugriva, "Oh Monkey king, I have not done any harm to you. You can go back to your place with all your monkeys. Sugriva heard this and caught hold of Suka. Rama immediately ordered the monkeys not to kill Suka. Sugriva told the spy that he had come there only to kill Ravana and the other and demons, as Ravana had carried away Rama's wife had killed Jatayu. Sugriva commanded the spies to tell Ravana of his reply³3. When Rama found that there was no response from the ocean God, decided to discharge the most powerful weapon the Brahmastra, that would surely put an end to the life of the Ocean God. Then the Sea God realized his folly and begged to be forgiven. Rama stopped discharging arrows. The Sea god suggested Rama to release his arrow at Dhrumakulya, a place where many wicked persons were creating a lot of havoc to the world. He then said that there was a monkey called Nala, who was Visvakarma's son and he had the capacity of constructing a dam across the ocean. Having said this, the Ocean God vanished 36. NALA BUILDS THE BRIDGE Then Nala came there and said that he would be able to build the dam with the help of all the monkeys. Rama ordered all the monkeys to bring huge trees and rocks and mountain tops and the causeway was 231

steadily constructed by Nala. All kinds of material required for constructing a bridge were brought by the monkeys and bears. Under the supervision of Nala, the causeway was built in five days. The poet mentions the actual distance covered each day. On the first day 14, on the second day 20, third day 21, fourth day 22, fifth day 23. Thus the entire distance of hundred yojanas was fully covered, and the grand bridge lay across the ocean. And now there was no difficulty for the millions and millions of monkeys to reach the other side of the ocean. The gods were highly pleased³7. THE ARMY CROSSES OVER Rama, Laksmana and Sugriva and all the monkeys walked along the bridge and reached the other side. He wanted Sugriva to take the monkeys to places where there were plenty of fruit bearing trees and drinking water. RAMA IN LANKA As Rama approached Lanka he was able to see the huge city with all its massive structure and gardens. He really wondered at the luxury of Lanka. Suka went back to Ravana and gave him a detailed account of the vastness of the army and the determination of the millions of monkeys. 232

SUKA AND SARANA SPY AGAIN Once again Ravana sent two demons Suka and Sarana to enter the enemy camp and get information about the attitude and relative strength of the enemy. But the moment they entered the monkey hosts, disguised as birds, Vibhisana was able to spot them out and they were caught by the monkeys. But once again Rama intervened and freed them. THE APES DESCRIBED Ravana got upon the top of a huge building and from there he was looking at the huge army of monkeys. Sarana, a spy was showing him the great leaders in the monkey army like Mainda and Dhurmukha. The spies also pointed out to Ravana how Hanuman could carry Rama easily on his shoulders without any trouble. Even as they were giving an account of the monkeys, Suka and Sarana were compelled to talk about the great power of Rama and how invincible the monkey army was under his leadership. Rama had now climbed on to the top of a hillock called Suvela. And from there, he was able to get some idea of the landscape of Lanka. Ravana also realized that Vibhisana was there to help Rama in his effective invasion of Lanka 45. 233

RAVANA DECEIVES SITA Ravana thought that it would be the only way to save himself from Rama if only he could succeed in making Sita his wife. For this he adopted a cunning method. He called a demon, "Vidyut Jihwa" to prepare a likeness of Rama's head and his bow and arrows. He took the image to Sita and placed the arrow and bows. He said to Sita, "Look here. This is the head of your husband Rama". He continued, "Therefore, there is no use of your waiting for Rama. It would be best for you to become my wife this moment" "46. SITA LAMENTS THE IMAGINED DEATH OF RAMA Sita believed that the head was really that of Rama's. Her sorrow knew no bounds. She began to wail aloud, "Oh, Lord! Great saints have been saying that you would live for a long time. Can their words fail? How could you go away leaving me here? What will now happen to Kausalya?" Then she said to Ravana, "Oh Ravana, place my body along with Rama's body. I would prefer to die along with him"48. Even as Sita was weeping thus, some servants came there and told Ravana, that his minister Prahasta wanted to meet him immediately on an important matter. Then Ravana could not continue standing there. He left abruptly. 234

SITA SARAMA CONSOLES SI ABOUT RAVANA'S TRICK ru Just as the rain subdues fire and makes trees exuberant with fruits and flowers, Sarama, the wife of Vibhisana approached Sita and comforted her. She said to Sita, "Do not believe in all these illusions. Demons are experts in creating such cunning device. There is no danger to Rama's life". Ravana, in his panic resorted to tricks and there was no possibility of Ravana slaying Rama. Sarama overheard Ravana's plans and reported to Sita. Sarama went to the place where Ravana was conversing with his mother Kaikasi and the minister Avitta. They were advising him to hand over Sita to Rama. Sarama told Sita that her Lord Rama would soon kill Ravana and other demons and meet Sitas². THE ADVICE OF MALYAVAN The elderly minister called Malyavan drew the attention of Ravana to the various inauspicious signs that predicted a great calamity to Ravana. Malayavan told Ravana to free Sita and make peace with Rama 53. Ravana did not take the advice of Malyavan in the proper spirit. He posted powerful demons to guard the four gateways of the city. Prahasta, Mahaparswa, Indrajit, Suka and Sarana were directed to take care of the four gateways 54. 235

ARMY DISPOSITION IN BOTH SIDES In the meanwhile, Vibhisana sent his four ministers into the city of Lanka and they collected valuable information about the steps taken by Ravana to defend the city in the ensuing war. Rama, on his part, made similar arrangements of his army of monkeys. He placed Nila, Angada and Hanuman as the leaders of the three units and stood along with Laksmana, Sugriva and Vibhisana at a gateway". RAMA ASCENDS THE SUVELA MOUNTAIN and Rama got upon a hillock called Suvela and from there he could ren have a clear view of the city. Rama stayed on the mountain top for that night. They were to start the battle the next day³. SUGRIVA'S SURPRISE ATTACK ON RAVANA At that time Ravana also got upon to the top of a huge building and was surveying at the monkey army. Sugriva at once jumped on Ravana's head, kicked his crown and hit him hard all of a sudden. It took some time for Ravana to realize that he was face to face with Sugriva. Then he started retaliating. But Sugriva was clever enough to come back to Rama's side before Ravana could capture him". Rama said to Sugriva, "Do not indulge in such a dangerous adventure. You are as dear as Laksmana and Bharata to me. 236

ANGADA GOES TO RAVANA AS AN EMISSARY Rama called Angada and asked him to go as an emissary to Ravanna. Angada started on his errand and stood before Ravana in a minute, with a message from Rama 61. Angada said to Ravana, "Rama has come here to punish you for the crime you have committed against " " him. Rama had promised the kingdom of Srilanka to Vibhisana. And if you wanted to live surrender Sita at once, Otherwise you are sure to be killed 1/2 2 killed 62. Ravana heard the words of Angada and he felt hurt. He ordered his demons to capture Angada. He was able to drag all the demons high up into the sky even as they were holding on to his hands. Now Ravana ordered all his armies to attack the monkey armies from all sides of the city. Rama too ordered the monkeys to advance and start the attack 64. SINGLE COMBATS a Angada attacked Indrajit. Hanuman fought against Jambumali. Vibhisana attacked Mitragna. Sugriva challenged Praghase. And as the hosts of monkeys and demons fought with each other, hundreds and thousands of the warriors were killed on both sides. Angada and Indrajit were fighting against each other. Angada was able to kill the horses and the charioteer of Indrajit. Indrajit immediately disappeared into the sky. This was a great feat achieved by Angada. The gods in the sky hailed Angada. Rama and Laksmana too praised Angada. 237

INDRAJIT'S MAGIC WEAPON, THE NAGASTRA Indrajit could remain unseen in the sky because of the boons that he had obtained from Brahma. He was hitting the monkeys from the sky with his sharp arrows. Even as Rama was cautioning the monkeys to be vigilant, Indrajit discharged the "Naga pasam"to slay Rama nd Laksmana 67. RAMA AND LAKSMANA BOUND BY THE NAGASTRA The monkeys on their part lifted huge trees and flew into the sky with the intention of hitting Indrajit. Indrajit bound Rama and Laksmana with "Naga pasam" and both Rama and Laksmana fell down on the ground. They could not attack Indrajit as he remained hidden in the sky. When Indrajit saw that Rama and Laksmana had fallen down, he concluded that they were finished once for all. He went back to his father Ravana and announced him of the great victory he had scored. Ravana was very happy to hear the words of Indrajit. He embrassed Indrajit heartily and thought that he had achieved victory over Rama and Lakshmana". Ravana ordered the demoness to take Janaki in the Puspaka Vimana and to show her the fate of Rama and Laksmana, hoping that Sita would lose hope and might surrender to him. So Trijata and some demonessses brought Sita in the Puspaka Vimana and showed her the battle field"¹. es ac 238

SITA'S LAMENT Sita now saw both Rama and Laksmana lying helpless in the the fact that the battle field. Trjata consoled Sita that Puspaka Vimana had allowed Sita ^ to remain inside it was itself the proof that Rama and Laksmana were quite alive. Then Trjata and Sita went back to Asokavanam. Sita was in a way, convinced by the words of Trjata". RAMA GRIEVES OVER LAKSMANA Meanwhile, Rama came back to his senses and saw Laksmana fallen unconscious. He began to weep and said that it would be impossible for him to live without Laksmana. If any danger befell Lakshmana's life, Rama said that he would take away his own life 74. Rama said to Sugriva, "Oh Sugriva, you can go back to Kiskinda. Take back all the monkeys". Sugriva did not lose heart. He said, "Carry Rama and Laksmana to kiskinda and keep them in safe custody. I will fight against Ravana kill him and bring back Sita". GARUDA COMES TO THE RESCUE Sussena said, "Ask Anjaneya to bring the most valuable 4 * medicinal herbs from the mountain Chandra drona Even as he was telling this, Garuda the God of birds, suddenly appeared there". Even as he was approaching Rama, all the serpents that encircled the body of 239

Rama and Laksmana disappeared. Rama and Laksmana arose. Thus the most dreaded Nagapasa was destroyed by Garuda 7. DHUMRAKSHA FIGHTS WITH HANUMAN Then Ravana ordered Dhumraksa to go forth and fight against the enemy. At the same time, he saw many evil omens". Dhumraksa with an army of his own, went out and fought against Hanuman. Dhumraksa was able to hit Hanuman on his head with his mace. Hanuman soon recovered from the effect of the blow and he broke a fragment of a hill and killed Dhumraksa by hurling it on him 80. ANGADA FIGHTS WITH VAJRADHAMSTRA Ravana then commanded another demon Vajradhamstra to go out and fight against the enemy. Accordingly, Vajradhamstra emerged through the southern gate, where Angada was ready to receive him³). An army also came along with Vajradhamstra and both the armies of the monkeys and the demons clashed against one another. Many warriors were killed. Vajradhamstra fought fiercely. Angada was stung to the quick and fought terribly with Vajradhamstra and killed him. 240

AKAMPANA IS SENT Ravanna sent forth Akampana another great demon, with a large number of demons. He was met by Mainda and other great monkey leaders. The fight was so terrible that a lot of dust rose from the floor and this thick mass of dust rendered it impossible for any warrior to see clearly the man beside him. This resulted in one monkey killing another monkey and a demon killing another demon himself. Hanuman met this demon and fought against him. He lifted a huge tree and attacked Akampana and all the other demons with it, killing them all. Rama who saw this felt very happy and praised Hanuman for his valour 86. ༡ PRAHASTA COMES TO FIGHT Now it was the turn of Prahasta and he spoke to Ravana in a pessimistic vein. Prahasta said, "I am ready to sacrifice my life for you". This meant that Prahasta had lost all hope of victory. But still he was faithful to Ravana. Narantaka was a demon who fought against the monkeys and he was killed by Dvivida. Dhurmukha killed a demon called Samunnatha 38. Jambavan too was fighting with many demons and he killed Mahanada. Nila the counter part of Prahasta, fought against him and killed him. The poet says when Prahasta was lost, Ravana became Vihasta meaning powerless 89. L 1 241

RAVANA LEADS THE ATTACK When Ravana was getting ready to go out, his wife Mandodari came to him, made her obeisance to him and spoke to him respectfully. She had with her the elderly demon Malyavan also⁹. Mandodari said, "Rama is not an ordinary human being. The fact that he has slain S Khara, Dhusana and others at Janathanam is proof of his extraordinary ^ valour. So it would be safe on your part to hand over Sita to Rama and seek his pardon"91. But Ravana was adamant. He said, "Why are you afraid of an ordinary human being? Go into the harem and live in peace. I shall never surrender myself to an ordinary man"993. He asked Mandodari to stay inside the palace. Then he got ready for the war. He asked his demons to bring his special chariot 94. Ravana and Laksmana fought against each other. Ravana hit Laksmana with a Sakti missile which was given to him by Brahma. Laksmana fell down. Then Hanuman lifted Laksmana and carried him to Rama's place. This time Rama fought furiously against Ravana and Ravana was not able to fight against Rama. Rama was so deft and powerful that he crushed Ravana's chariot, killed his horses and Ravana was left without a chariot and no horses. Ravana was standing helpless on the battlefield. Ravana was e severly wounded and he went back. L 242

WAKING UP OF KUMBHAKARNA Ravana had to seek the help of Kumbhakarna as the last resort. He ordered all his servants to awaken Kumbhakarna. The demons tried various methods to wake him up. They hurled various weapons and mountain tops upon him. They made elephants walk over him 104. Kumbhakarna got up. Kumbhakarna became furious and said that he would first kill Rama, Laksmana and then meet his brother Ravana. Vibhisana told Rama and others all about Kumbhakarna. RAVANA'S APPEAL TO KUMBHAKARNA Kumbakarna went to meet Ravana. Ravana spoke to him, "You have to act quickly and save us all. You alone are capable of defeating the enemy"108 KUMBHAKARNA CENSURES RAVANA But Kumbhakarna certainly was wiser. He spoke boldly. He said to Ravana, "You have deviated from the righteous course. You should have listened to the some sane advice given to you by our younger brother Vibhisana". But Ravana threatened him. Then Kumbhakarna said, "I am definitely your most faithful servant in the first place and only then your brother"110. When the monkeys came to fight with Kumbhakarna he said that he would fight only with Rama. Rama had a 243

tough time dealing with him. At last he discharged the missile of Indra and cut off the hands and feet of Kumbhakarna as if he were cutting down a plantain stalk¹¹8. KUMBHAKARNA SLAIN a a Rama used powerful arrows and cut off Kumbhkarn's head. The L L head went spinning away over a long distance and hit the huge rampart and gate way of Lanka. RAVANA'S LAMENT Ravana came to know of the death of Kumbhakarna and he wailed aloud, "Oh My dear brother, How is it that you have passed away without killing my enemies? Without you, I do not care for this kingdom nor am I interested any longer in Sita 120. Just then Trisiras and other demons came to him and asked him permission to go forth to the battle field¹²1 RAVANA'S SONS PROCEED TO FIGHT The demons Narantaka, Atikanya, Trisiras fought against the monkey army. Angada killed Narantaka and Atikaya. Nila threw a mountain crag on Devantaka and killed him. In the same way Hanuman and Nila killed Mahodara, another great demon leader 123. Hanuman 244

snatched the sword from the hands of Trisiras and cut off his head with it 124. Gavaksa struck the demon Unmatha on his face with the palms and rendered him dead 125. Then came Atikaya a son of Ravana. When Atikaya announced in the battle field that if there was any strong man in the army, he could be willing to test his strength against him. On hearing this, Laksmana came forth. Laksmana took the hint from the wind god and released the Brahmastram at Atikaya. This Brahmastram was so powerful that it shattered into pieces, the strong armour of Atikaya and it also cut off Atikaya is head in a minute¹28. Now Ravana was very sad at the loss of Atikaya. Ravana concluded that Rama and an Laksmana were not ordinary human beings but they were a part of Narayana, the supreme god¹ 29. Then Indrajit came to him and said, "Oh, dear father! why do you give room to this kind of frustration and sadness. I am here and I shall kill all your enemies (30. Indrajit came to the battle field and started hitting the monkeys. He was able to injure hundreds and thousands of monkeys 131. INDRAJIT USES THE BRAHMASTRA Indrajit despatched Brahmastra on Rama and Laksmana and on hosts of monkeys. He remained hidden behind the clouds in the sky. So the Brahmastra had its terrible effect of rendering Rama, Laksmana and 245

all the millions of monkeys unconscious. Vibhisana and Hanuman were not hurt by Indrajit's missiles. They were fully alert and they began to search for Rama and Laksmana. Even as they were going through the monkey groups, Vibhisana saw Jambavan. Vibhisana went near Jambavan and woke him up. Jambavan was concerened only with Hanunman's well-being. HANUMAN FETCHES THE MOUNTAIN OF HERBS Hanuman crossed the Himalayas and saw Kailasa mountain on one side and Rishabha on the other side. In between the two lay the Osadhi mountain. In a cinfusion he lifted the entire mountain in his hand and began to fly towards Lanka. The moment the Osadhi mountain was brought near the battle field, the wonderful effect of the Osadhi was immediately felt. The thousands and thousands of monkeys who had been murdered, all woke up with all the limbs intact. In the meanwhile, Sugriva ordered all the monkeys to get into the kingdom of Lanka and burn all the cities 137 RAVANA ORDERS KUMBA TO ATTACK Kumba and Nikumba, the sons of Kumbhakarna rushed towards the monkeys and fought fiercely. Kampana, a great demon fought with Angada. Angada killed him. Another demon called Prajanga rushed 246

upon Angada and he snatched the sword from the hands of Prajanga and cut off his head with it¹41. Yupaksa, fought with Mainda and was killed by him. Raktaksa was killed by Dvivida. Sugriva hurled a strong blow on the chest of the demon Kumba with his fist and killed the demon 143. Hanuman fought with Nikumba and plucked off his head casually, as if he were plucking a flower from the stalk 144. MAKARAKSA COMES TO THE BATTLE FIELD Makaraksha was the son of Khara. Rama discharged the fire missile and killed Makaraksha. Indrajit came again after performing a ritual and got the blessings of the divine agency. INDRAJIT SLAYS THE PHANTOM SITA Indrajit resorted to a gruesome trick. He brought a likeness of S Sita and calling Hanuman to witness his art. He cut it into two, so that Hanuman would believe that it was Sita herself who was cut into two by Indrajit 150. They stopped fighting and began to weep. Indrajit wanted sometime for performing a ritual at Nikumbila. HANUMAN REPORTS TO RAMA OF SITA'S DEATH Hanuman carried the news of Sita's killing to Rama. Rama swooned on hearing it. Laksmana was very angry at the turn of events. 247

r I have no belief in this Dhtama 155 VIBHISANA TELLS INDRAJIT'S TRICK In the meanwhile, Vibhisana came there. Then he told the truth. To gain time for performing the yaga at Nikumbila, he had done this trick 156 LAKSMANA TO FIGHT INDRAJIT " "Now send Laksmana along with me. He at once called Laksmana and sent him along with Vibhisana. Laksmana met Indrajit now face to face 159. Indrajit saw Vibhisana there and he abused Vibhisana as a traitor. "Why do you join the enemy against your own son?" Shouted Indrajit. Laksmana and Indrajit fought with each other severely. As the fight continued, the monkeys were able to hit Indrajit and Laksmana killed the charioteer and horses of Indrajit 163. THE DEATH OF INDRAJIT Vibhisana went forth and struck the horses of Indrajit's chariot. Laksmana took up a very powerful missile of Indra and uttered a great mantra to add power to the missile. At the discharge of this missile, Indrajit's head was cut off and Indrajit was killed once for all 165. They all returned to Rama and he was so happy that he embraced Laksmana. He called Sushena and asked him to treat the wounds of the monkeys. 248

a L Sushena did accordingly. Ravana was shocked at the death of Indrjit ¹67. Suddenly he thought that he should kill Sita and with a sword in hand he rushed towards her¹68. But at that time Mahaparsva came there and prevented Ravana from killing Sita 169. RAMA USES GANDHARVASTRA e L Rama reached the center of the enemy rank and discharged Gandharvastra. Rama destroyed 7,29,000,00 chariots, 10,20,60,000 cavalries, 13,12,20,000 elephants, 145,80,00,000 infantries in just one and half hours. Millions of demons were destroyed in the war¹71. Thus Rama annihilated the entire army of his enemies with his powerful missiles 172. Raksasa demonesses surrounded the dead and lamented in grief. RAVANA AGAIN GOES OUT TO FIGHT Ravana was followed by Mahodhara, Mahaparsva and Virupaksa with huge armies and chariots 175. Sugriva hit by Virupaksa, swooned. Then Sugriva with his missile named Parigha struck the horses of Mahodara and finally cut off his head with his knife. The angry Angada the grandson of the powerful Indra, made the horses of Mahaparsva fall down and hit him on his chest with his forehand. Owing to the destruction of his relatives, Ravana's anger got doubled and he 249

neglected the great hero Laksmana who was in front. Rama bore the Narache missile on his forehead which came out from the Bow of Lord Rudra. The unfailing missile would bring him victory. He had discharged the fire missile at the armour of his enemy and rendered his missile powerless 180. While Rama was fighting with his enemy vigorously Laksmana broke the Sakti missile into hundred pieces with his seven arrows which were aimed to kill Vibhisana. Laksmana was hit split by the Sakti missile¹81. Laksmana fell down with his chest into the ^ smithereens by missile Sakti. On seeing him Rama was plunged in grief ren and ordered the vanaras to protect him. 1 HANUMAN FETCHES THE MEDICINAL HERBS AGAIN Rama was sad about Laksmana's plight. When he saw Sushena treating Laksmana, he gained some confidence. Then by the herb named "Visalya karani" which was brought by Hanuman hurriedly, Sushena made Laksmana smelt that juice 183. Indra sent his chariot with his charioteer Matali to Rama. THE GREAT BATTLE At that time Rama rendered the missile "Sulayudha" discharged by Ravana powerless, with the weapon called "Sakti" of Indra. Ravana fainted and lay immobile by the arrows of Rama, just like a mountain 250

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shattered by a thunderbolt. Then the charioteer of Ravana took him away and brought him to his senses 188. HYMN TO THE SUN On seeing the enemy who was ready to fight without any fear, Rama felt fatigued. He prayed to the Sun god who would surely bestow victory upon him. He at once chanted the "Aditya Hrdaya" three times which he had learnt from the great Sage Agastya. There ensued a tumultous battle. When Rama and Ravana were fighting against each other without any fatigue, the gods prayed "Let prosperity be bestowed upon Brahmins and cows. There can be no comparisons to the sky and ocean. They can be compared only with themselves. So also, the battle between Rama and Ravana has no comparison, other than itself. The battle remains unparalleled like the warriors Rama and Ravana Rama, with all his might cut off the head of Ravana decorated with earrings. He kept cutting off the head that reemerged 101 times. THE DEATH OF RAVANA 194 Rama discharged the Brahmastra on the chest of enemy. Just as a mountain broken by thunder bolt, the arrow discharged by Rama tore Ravana's chest and returned to Rama's bow. At last Ravana fell down and died 197. Lanka was now without a king. The heavenly gods praised 251

Rama with joy. Flowers were showered on him. Good words were heard everywhere. Monkeys were happy. Bad omens disappeared 198 VIBHISANA'S LAMENT Vibhisana lamented the death of his brother Ravana. He cried "I I w have disgraced you. Wished for your death". While he was thus crying, A he was consoled by the compassionable Rama who instructed to perform the last rites of his brother 199. THE RAKSASA'S GRIEF The demonesses on hearing the death of their husband came crying hurriedly from the harem and lamented. MANDODARI'S LAMENT 2 Mandodari lamented on seeing her husband, "Heh! Prabhu ! I have done a crime because my mind did not break into pieces on knowing of your death or that of my sons and relatives". While she was crying, the ladies in the harem consoled her with conciliatory words and thus made her cross the ocean of sorrow. RAVANA'S LIBATION At the bidding of Rama, Vibhisana entered Lanka and performed obsequies to his brother according to rules, with the help of Brahmins. 252

He also performed libation to his brother Ravana. VIBHISANA CROWNED KING OF LANKA At the bidding of Rama, Laksmana coronated Vibhisana as king with consecrated water brought by the vanaras in Lanka. After the Pattabhiseka was over, Vibhisana gave Rama many presents. HANUMAN SENT TO SITA By the command of Rama, Anjaneya went to Asokavana and conveyed to Sita the victory of Rama and the death of Ravana. For a moment, Sita could not reply and then told him, "Heh! Hanuman! I do not find any befitting gift to offer you for the good matter conveyed by is greater you 208. "Now seeing Rama who had vanquished his enemy was more than anything in the world?' thus Sita told Hanuman. Then Maruti told Sita, "Heh! Devi, I shall annihilate those demonesses who were threatening and scaring you all these days. Command me". Then Sita told Hanuman, "They were only servants. They were not independent. They do not deserve any punishment. I was suffering grief only because of my sin"'209 RAMA REPUDIATES SITA Rama spoke to Sita with anger, "I have annihilated the enemies only to wipe out my infamy, not to obtain you. Will a person born in 253

good race take you back who lived in another person's house so You can go wherever you like''213 far? SITA FALLS INTO THE FIRE "If I had not been separated from my husband through my mind So saying even for a moment, let the fire god protect me". Thus telling Sita entered into the fire which was lit by Laksmana 214. Lord Brahma and Lord Siva who approached the virtuous Rama along with the lokapadas said, "Heh Rama! Why are you indifferent towards Sita? Are you not G " associated with goddess Lakshmi?"215 FIRE GOD DELIVERS UP SITA SAFELY Lord Agni proclaimed Sita's chastity and seating her on his lap approached Rama and said, "Heh Rama! At my request you please take back Sita who is instrumental for Ravana's destruction". Thus Lord Siva advised him to go to Ayodhya²17. RAMA SEES HIS DEPARTED FATHER "\ Now you are fortunate to see your father who has obtained celestial body and who has gone to Heaven". When Rama was told thus by Lord Siva, he with his wife and brother saluted his father 218. without you. "Heh Rama ! I don't relish the life in heaven. I have been honoured by 254

Lord Indra, without you. I feel happy on seeing you. You go to Ayodhya, coronate yourself as king and protect the people. You please your relatives". Thus Dasaratha convinced Rama and advised Sita and Laksmana to go with him. He then disappeared 219. Rama then went to his country 220. RAMA TAKES LEAVE OF VIBHISANA 2 n Rama told Vibhisana, "You should make Sugriva and other friends of mine happy by offering them silk garments, etc., Bharata who is virtuous is suffering grief on my separation. Then Vibhisana spoke to Rama, offering his salutation 221. "I have got the famous Puspaka Vimana obtained by my brother Ravana on defeating Kubera by his great power. It will overcome the mind through its speed. Hence you can reach Ayodhya immediately". Thus Vibhisana brought the Puspaka Vimana along with its beautiful peak 222. Rama accompanied by Laksmana got into the Vimana with Sita on his lap²²4. RAMA DESCRIBES THE ENROUTE TO SITA 224 The Vimana accommodated the entire army comfortably. When the Vimana flew into the sky Rama showed Sita the various scenes on their way. On the way the great Sage Bharadvaja requested Rama to enjoy his hospitality for some time and then go to Ayodhya 227. The 255

monkeys enjoyed to their heart's contents, the hospitality of Bharadvaja. He filled the whole place with sweet fruits, flowers, rivers and mountains etc., 228. RAMA SENDS HANUMAN TO BHARATA In the meanwhile, at the bidding of Rama, Hanuman came to Srngiberapura to know the mentality of Bharata. Hanuman spoke to Bharata with folded hands and deep affection, about the arrival of Rama. "You will see your brother tomorrow on the day of the star 231 Pushyam"²³¹. Bharata felt happy on hearing the words of the truthful Hanuman. Bharata, the son of Kaikeyi, was overwhelmed with joy. The people, ministers, Brahmins, brothers and ladies were all filled with joy when they heard the arrival of Rama. Bharata was holding the sandals of Rama on his head when he greeted his brother 233 THE REUNION OF BROTHERS Then Bharata embraced Rama, greeted Sita and Laksmana and offered his salutations to others 235. Rama prostrated at the feet of his mothers. The people honoured Rama and enquired of his welfare. Bharata placed the auspicious sandals at the feet of Rama and said, "Oh Lord of earth! I have handed over your kingdom with all its prosperity. You please accept it. I am now fortunate "236 256

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RAMA SENDS PUSPAKA VIMANA Rama then spoke to the unparalleled and incomparable Vimana, L "You return to serve Kubera". Thus he gave permission to the Puspaka Vimana and sent it back to its owner²37. BHARATA HANDS OVER THE KINGDOM TO RAMA The Bharata said "Virtuous and wise Dasaratha gave the kingdom to A you only to protect it. You bear the crown on your head and fulfil his desire, by ascending the throne. Rama accepted the kingdom kindly. When the ministers came to Nandigrama from Ayodhya to coronate Rama, he got into the chariot of Sumantra and went along with them to Ayodhya. Laksmana and Sugriva took the umbrella and chowries happily 241. Bharata forcibly took the reigns of horse. Gods played the musical instruments sweetly. Then Sugriva ascended on the elephant by name Satrujayam. With the sweet accompaniments of music and armies Rama reached Ayodhya 242. The great people informed Vasista to perform the coronation of Rama²44. RAMA IS CROWNED on the Vasista, The great sage Vasista, who was a Brahma Jnani made Rama sit h gem studded throne along with his wife. The Brahmins and the ministers consecrated Rama with holy water. Satrugna took the 257

umbrella and the chowries were taken by Sugriva and Vibhisana. The wind god gave away the pearl necklace of Indra. Rama honoured everybody with joy and caused them to go to their abode. Sugriva and Vibhisana had returned to their country with Rama's permission Rama protected the whole kingdom righteously, coronating Bharata as yuvaraja. He also performed sacrifices according to the rules laid down 247 in the sastras. He set an example for others, in following the path of Dhtama 248. When Rama was ruling over the country there was no fear r ren of women being widowed, serpants, diseases and thefts. People were not sad. They were free from anger and were very happy. They were living a long life. All the creepers and trees were exuberant with flowers L and fruits 249. Thus the lord of Laksmi, incarnated as Rama on the earth, doing many Dana, Dharma to people, making them do the same, making Sita happy, was ruling the country for 11,000 years and obtained fame from all the three worlds. He also favoured Sage Valmiki, as if compassion itself has incarnated as Rama 250. The author prayed to Sage Valmiki who was the cause for bringing forth the Rama Charita which is like Karpaka tree and that which has attained fame in C Brahmaloka. This charita will give the desired objects to people who narrate it and who hear it, and remove obstacles in their life. This will give happiness to gods and restore objects to persons who have lost 258

them 251. "Let that benevolent Rama along with his wife, brothers and Hanuman remain in the throne of my mind and curb the bad quality of anger; increase good qualities like Dharma; and always give me Brahmananda and boundless happiness" Thus the author was always contemplating upon Rama dhyana 252. Thus ends this Yuddha Kanda. It gives riches to pauper; gives one more prosperity which even Kubera might envy. The narration of Sundara Ramayana gives pleasure to people and wipe away their misfortunes. This Yuddha Kanda fit to be heard by scholars, thus comes to an end 253. 259=