THE RAGHUVAMSA by Kavikula Guru Sri Kalidasa -5

THE

RAGHUVAMSA

by Kavikula Guru

Sri Kalidasa 

translated by

P. DE LACY JOHNSTONE

 

THE

RAGHUVAMSA

THE STORY

OF RAGHU'S LINE

BY KALIDASA

TRANSLATED BY

P. DE LACY JOHNSTONE

96 RAGHUVANC'A [canto

So when her time was come the chaste chief Queen

Brought forth a son, Sun fit to banish gloom,

As phosphorescent plants receive at night

The dying sunlight. But the King, rejoiced

To see his winsome beauty, "Rama" named

His son, chief blessing to a longing world.

He, lamp of Raghu's line, of peerless beam

Outshone the brightness of the chamber-Hghts,

Which paled before him. Lightened now, the Queen,

With Rama cradled near her, shone as shines

—

Slim in the autumn—Ganga, lily-banked.

Kaikeyi bore a son, with beauty dowered,

Great Bharat, whose reflected loveliness

Made her more fair, as Fortune is enhanced

By virtuous Conduct. Sumitra brought forth

Twins, Lakshman and ^atrughna :—Foresight so

And Temperance Wisdom fully-followed bears.

Now stainless showed Creation, and the Earth

Displayed her virtues : Heaven to Earth came down

In train of the Supreme. At Vishnu's birth,

The Four-faced God, those regions breathed anew

With purest gales, where erst fell Ravan's dread

Had cowed the Gods. Fire rising clear of smoke.

And Sun in cloudless sky, shook sorrow off.

Who late had groaned beneath the Giant's yoke.

Then shed the Fortune of the Rakshasas

Hot tears, that fell as jewels from the crowns

Ten-headed Ravan wore. Through all high Heaven

tgo

200

X.] RAMA'S BIRTH 97

The drums celestial preluded, on earth,

The royal trumpets hailed the Princes' birth.

The Tree of Paradise rained down its blooms

On palace-roof, fit preface to the rites

That Fortunes high demand, with wreaths from Heaven.

Cleansed as the Law required, with fostering care

The Princes grew, while grew their Father's joy,

As 'twere their elder brother. Self-restraint, 220

Inborn, by modest actions still increased.

As, fed with fragrant unguents, Fire's bright flame

More brilliant shows. They four, harmoniously

—

Not envying each the other—nobly graced

Great Raghu's blameless line, as each in turn

The seasons four adorn the groves of Heaven,

So love fraternal ruled ; but closest ties

To Rama Lakshman bound, while Catrushna

With Bharat went, by love peculiar joined.

Yet was not either pair dissevered from 230

That other : Wind with Fire is closest joined,

And Moon with Ocean—yet this breeds no strife.

True Princes of their people, splendidly

They bore them, yet not haughtily,—and won

All men's great love,—as at hot summer's end

Days of dark cloud are pleasant. Gloriously

So shone the King's four sons, as though to Earth

Came Virtue, Wealth, and Joy, and Final Bliss.

Their Father well they loved : by virtuous deeds

G

98 RAGHUVANCA [canto

They made him glad, as the Four Seas with pearls 240

Served him, sole Monarch of Four Continents.

As with his tusks Heaven's mighty elephant

Breaks the sword-edges of the Daitya-host,

As kingcraft wins success by skilful wiles,

As by His league-long arms great Vishnu's self

Shines glorious,—so by these four sons Divine

Shone the great Monarch o'er his world-wide realm !

XI.] SITA'S WEDDING 99

CANTO XI

Ramals Triumph a?id Marriage with SUA, and his Defeat of

Paracu Rama. >

Hear now my tale :—While Rama still was young,

And wore a boy's dark curls, came Kaugika

To beg him from the King, those foes to curb

Who marred his sacrifice : in hero-souls

Mere age is not regarded. Him the King,

Though hardly he had won him, honouring

The perfect Sage, with Lakshman gave at once

:

No suppliant ere went back ungratified

From Lord of Raghu's race, not though he asked

As boon the Monarch's life. Forthwith the King lo

Bade deck the highways for their passing out,

Forthwith the clouds wind-driven arched the sky,

And rained down flowers. That mighty warrior-pair,

Swift to obey their Father's will, bent low

Before his feet, and as they bowed his tears

Fell on them passing forth to far-ofif toils.

Now, deeming that the Saint had only craved

Rama with Lakshman following, the great King

100 RAGHUVANCA [canto

His all-prevailing prayers bestowed as guard,

But not an armed host. The archer-boys, 20

Their locks bedewed with tears their Father shed,

Went with the Saint, the people's anxious looks

Half-shading all their way. The Hero-pair,

Their mothers leaving, kissed their royal feet.

Then followed where the glorious Saint led on,

—

Like summer months that course behind the Sun.

Childlike, unsteady paced they, fair to see.

With lissom arms like crested waves that dance.

As streams, when rain-clouds gather, work and whirl,

As suits their name. Till now they only trode 30

Smooth inlaid floors, yet by the potent spells,

Bala, Atibala named, which the Saint

Had taught them on the road, they walked untired

As at their mother's side. Time-olden tales,

Told by their Father's friend, in legend skilled.

So lifted them and carried, scarce they felt

That now they walked—nor missed a chariot's ease.

The lakes sweet waters gave, and birds gay songs.

Winds scented pollen waved, and clouds spread shade

For them so passing. More than lakes that stretch 40

Bright with the lotus, more than restful trees.

They beamed on hermits' eyes, and cheered their hearts.

The grove of penance when with lifted bow

Sweet Rama entered, by his lovely shape

—

But not by wanton act—he showed like Love

Whom Civa scorched. Then passing on the way

XI.] SiTA'S WEDDING 101

Which thrice-accursed Taraka laid waste,

(For so the Saint had taught them), all in sport

They bent their bows and strung them. At the sound

The Demon-maid appeared, black as dark night 50

When wanes the moon—her ear-drops polished skulls,

That on her swarthy neck gleamed white as cranes

Lined 'gainst a dense cloud-bank. On Rama then

She swooped, and rushing shook the wayside trees.

In ghostly grave-clothes clad, with gruesome screech,

As whirlwind issuing from a charnel-house.

But Rama, when he marked her onslaught fell,

—

One lean arm raised, men's entrails hanging low

Down to her waist—at once let fly his shaft.

Nor shamed to slay a woman. Such a wound 60

His arrow in her flinty bosom made,

That Death therethrough among the Demon-hosts

First won an entrance. For the arrow cleft

Her heart ; she clanging fell, and shook the Earth ;

Not only so, but Ravan's kingdom too

Her falling shook—the Master of the worlds.

Struck to the heart by lovely Rama's shaft

Resistless, spite of all her horrid charms.

Her sandal-wood and gore, the Demon-queen

Passed to the home where Death reigns Lord of life. 70

When Taraka was slain, the Saint, well-pleased

With Rama's prowess, gave the missile dread,

Spell-wielded, Demon-slaying,—as the Sun

Gives to the Sun-gem flaming fire to hold.

102 RAGHUVANgA [canto

Thereafter Rama, coming to the grove

Once hallowed by the Dwarf, as told the Saint,

Unwitting of his former life, was natheless seized

With eager longing. Thence the Sage passed on

To where himself did penance, where his host

Of pupils sacrificed, and as in prayer 80

The tree-tops lowly bowed, and deer looked up

To greet their coming. There the Princely boys

Stood firm to guard the duly-cleansed Saint

From all disturbing foes, as Moon and Sun

Alternate rising with their radiance save

The world from blinding darkness. Sudden fell

A terror on the priests, for they beheld

The altar- floor defiled with blood-gouts, broad

As Bandhujiva blossoms—at which sight

They ceased their pious rites, and cast away 90

The sacrificial ladles. Instantly

Upgazing, Rama from his quiver drew

His arrow, saw in air a Demon-host

With banners waving, fanned by vulture's wings.

Then at the two Chiefs only, not the rest.

He launched his shaft : so Vishnu's bird, whose might

Mates Cesha, Serpent-King, deigns not to war

On water-snakes. Skilled archer, on his string

He laid the keen, swift shaft, the Wind-god's child,

And at Maricha loosed it ; like a stone, 100

Or withered leaf, the ponderous Demon fell.

The second leader then, Subahu named,

XI.] SIT A^S WEDDING 103

Who flitted to and fro, by magic art,

With steel-shod shafts the cunning Archer smote,

And gave him to the woodland birds a prey.

Then, freed from fear and unimpeded now,

The pious Priests praised both the hero-boys,

Next in due order all the sacred rites

Performed for their great Chief, to silence vowed.

He, purified and hallowed, solemnly no

Blessed both the Princes, bowing reverently

With waving locks, and on them laid his hand.

Pierced by the holy grass :—Age blessing Youth.

But now the King of Mithila had made

A mighty sacrifice, and bade the Sage.

He thither went, and with him Raghu's sons,

Whose keen desire he spurred to see the Bov,-

World-famous. And at night they took their rest

Where wave the pleasant trees of Gautama,

Sainted Ascetic, whose fair spouse—deceived

—

lao

Short space to Indra yielded. For that sin

She turned to stone, nor sooner her fair form

Regained, till, after ages, holy dust

From Rama's blessed feet fell on her limbs.

Now, when King Janaka had heard the Saint

Was come, with Raghu's sons attending, straight

He went to meet them, showing honour due

To Virtue's self, with Wealth and Pleasure joined.

The dwellers in Videha*, glad at heart,

104 RAGHUVANgA [canto

With longing looks devoured the Princes twain, 130

Like Punarvasu come once more to earth,

Nor dared to wink, lest haply they might miss

One moment's joy. Now, when the Sacrifice

And altar-rites were over, Kaugika

—

Who knew all fitting seasons—told the King

How Rama longed to try the mighty Bow.

He, when he saw the lovely, high-born Boy,

And knew the Bow, how stiff it was to bend,

Grieved he had set his daughter's hand a prize

For thews and sinews :—" Nay," he soon replied, 140

" Great Saint, it were not meet a noble calf

Should vainly try a task which all the strength

Demands of full-grown forest elephants.

For, Sire and Saint ! thou knowest—many kings,

Skilled archers, braAvny-armed from bowstring's use.

Have failed to draw the Bow, and wrung their hands.

And crying—'Fie !

' departed." But the Sage

Quick answered :—" Know, O King, this Hero's might

Transcends all words : thyself shalt see the proof

Upon thy Bow—as shows a shattered rock 150

The lightning's power." The Monarch, soon convinced

Of Rama's might, though veiled in boyish mien

—

As Indra's beetle holds the power of flame

—

Gave order that the attendant host should bring

The Bow renowned, as Indra thousand-eyed

Commands the ranged clouds to show his Bow

Mild-beaming. Soon as Rama saw the Arm,

THE TRIAL OF THE BOW

XI.] SiTA^S WEDDING 105

Fell as great ^esha sleeping, eagerly

He seized it : 'twas the Bow that ^iva used,

That mighty God whose standard bears a bull, 160

To shoot the escaping Victim as it fled.

On Rama wondering all the assembly gazed

With fixed eyes, and saw him string the Bow,

Unyielding as a rock, not using more

Of strength (it seemed) than Love puts forth to string

His own soft bow of flowers. Nay more, that Bow,

Drawn by the Hero's careless hand too far,

Snapped with harsh thunderous sound, proclaiming loud

To wrathful Bhrigu's son the Warrior-race

Again had raised its head. The Monarch, glad 170

To hail such might transcendent, snapping thus

Great Civa's Bow, to Rama gave Sita,

His lovely daughter, not of woman born.

Like Lakshmi born on earth. His child the King,

Fulfilling so his promise, straight bestowed

In presence of the Saint :—fit witness he,

Not less than sacred Fire, to bind their vows.

Then noble Janaka—his household Priest

Revered—as envoy sent to Kogala,

This message bearing :—" Grant me, noble King, iSo

That through my daughter's marriage Nimi's race

Be made thy servants !

"

Now the Father's heart

Was set for Rama e'en on such a bride.

When lo ! the Brahman came, and crowned his wish :

106 RAGHUVANgA [canto

So speedily a good man's thoughts bear fruit,

As doth the Wishing-Tree ! The Brahman's speech,

With lowly words due prefaced, when he heard,

Great Indra's friend, the Ascetic-King, set forth,

—

The Sun eclipsing with his army's dust.

Surrounding Mithila, he pressed the woods 190

That girt it round, with close-investing host,

—

A friendly pressure, which the capital

Endured, as brides their bridegrooms' close embrace

Rejoice in. Those two Kings, like Varuna

And Indra meeting, skilled to mark fit times,

Then son with daughter wedded, in such state

As suited with their splendour. Raghu's Fame

Earth's daughter took to wife ; and Urmila,

Her younger sister, Bharat ; while the Twins,

Their mighty younger brethren, mated them 200

With Kugadhvaja's slender-waisted maids.

So wedded to fair brides the Princes four.

With Rama chief, shone glorious,-—as in States

Successful Kingcraft shines by peace or war,

Or bribing foes, or sowing discord dire.

Harmonious matched. King's daughters with King's sons,

Each in the other found their bliss complete.

In closest union joined, as words unite

In ordered speech. The King of Kogala,

The Princes four thus wedded, well content, 210

Three marches by the King of Mithila

Escorted on his journey, homeward passed.

I

RAMA'S MARRIAGE

*^B R A /r

or THE

UNIVERSITY

_ or

XT.] SfTA^S WEDDING 107

The host swept on :—but fierce opposing winds

Blew down the flagstaffs, made the march a toil,

As river-torrents overflow their banks,

And tear the fallow. Then a stormy ring.

Portentous, clasped the Sun,—as 'twere a gem

Borne by a snake the King of Birds had slain

Amid the lissom coils. The expanse of heaven.

Swept by grey vulture-wings, and hung with clouds aao

Blood-dripping, awed the sight. Grim jackal-troops

With hideous howling hied them to the west.

To rouse (it seemed) fierce Bhrigu's Son, long used

To appease his father's ghost with Warrior-blood.

At these ill omens, this tempestuous wind,

Awestruck, the prudent King besought his Priest

To read the portents : soothing, he replied

—

" All will be well, my King ! " Then suddenly

A dazzling splendour rose before the host,

Which soon with clearer sight they pierced, and saw 230

A glorious Warrior-shape. The Hero bore

His Brahman father's cord, a mighty bow

Proclaimed his mother born of Warrior-blood,

—

Like Sun and Moon together met he seemed.

Or snake-girt sandal-tree. For he it was

Who, when his Sire's fierce rage burst bounds of right.

And bade him slay his mother, did the deed,

—

First triumphed o'er his heart, then o'er the world.

From his right ear a string of Aksha seeds

Hung down, a score and one, as numbering 240

108 RAGHUVANCA [canto

The times he had destroyed the Warrior-race,

An awful chaplet. Then the King despaired

At sight of Bhrigu's Son, in whom fell wrath

(Stirred by his father's fate) worked to destroy

The Warrior-seed ; for yet his sons were boys,

And he defenceless. Joy and dread at once

The name of Rama brought him, borne alike

By his loved son and by the mighty foe,

—

So snakes and chaplets bear one common name.

Yet, " Welcome, Saint ! " he cried : the cruel foe 250

Disdained his greeting, rolling baleful eyes.

That blazed with wrath 'gainst all the Kshatriya race,

To where young Rama stood,—and thus addressed

The Prince advancing fearless, while his bow

He firmly grasped, and 'twixt his fingers laid

The arrow on the string, as hot for strife :

—

" I hate the Warrior-brood : they wronged me first,

And I destroyed them, winning rest ; but now

Thy valour and renown have stirred my wrath.

As when a sleeping snake at blow of staff 260

Starts up enraged. 'Tis rumoured thou hast broke

The Bow of Mithila, not bent before.

Though oft attempted : exploit this, I deem.

Which blunts my horn of glory. Yea, my name,

The name of Rama, famous through the world,

Thou also bearest, and thy thirst for fame

Must cast reproach on me. Know then, I hate

With equal hatred only two,—the King

XI.] SITA'S WEDDING KM)

Who stole away the sacred Calf, and thee,

Offending equally, whose hand would snatch 270

My honour from me : yet I bear an Axe

That splits the stubborn rock, and my renown

Is stablished on the smiting of thy race,

—

Which yet delights me not if thou be left

Unconquered ; for the might of Fire is shown

By blazing in the waves no less than when

Dry tinder feeds it. Know that ^iva's bow,

Which thou didst break, had lost through Vishnu's power

Its primal virtue : so a soft-breathed gale

Lays low a tree which, on the river's brink, 280

The stream has undermined. But take my bow

(Be this the test !), string it, and draw when strung,

The arrow firmly laid : then, only then.

Will I confess thee Victor, and avow

Thy prowess mates my own. But, if thou blench

And dread my flaming Axe-edge, then submit

!

And sue for mercy, though that prayer be vain."

So spake with aspect fierce great Bhrigu's Son :

But Rama, while a soft smile curved his lips,

For fitting answer stretched his hand to grasp 290

The offered bow :—that weapon, once his own,

Again he clasped, and laughed for joy : so clouds.

In new-born beauty smile, but tenfold fair

Shine when the Bow of Indra lends its hues.

Then, resting the great bow a moment's space

Upon the ground to string it, high aloft

110 RAGHUVANgA [canto

The mighty Hero raised it : but the foe

Of all the Warrior-race, like dying lamp,

Lost all his lustre. Wondering gazed the host

Upon the twain, while one in splendour grew 300

And waned the other fast, like Sun and Moon,

When sets the Sun and rises the Full Moon.

With mild-eyed pity Rama saw his foe

Bereft of strength, and saw the fatal shaft

Which on the string he laid,—not less in might

Than ^iva's peerless son,—and thus he spake :

—

" O Brahman-hero ! not without remorse

Can I resolve to smite thee, though thyself

Wast first the aggressor : choose thou then thy doom !

Shall this my shaft destroy for thee this world, 310

Or that beyond, thy pious actions' meed ?

"

The humbled Saint replied :—" I know Thee now,

The Soul Supreme incarnate ! wherefore, Lord,

Shouldst Thou be angry that I longed to see

Great Vishnu's majesty in Thee come down

To earth ? My chastisement by Thee, my Lord,

Itself exalts me, though my Father's foes

By me were burnt to ashes, and I deemed

'Twas but a little thing to give away

The World of land and ocean. Wherefore now, 320

O Sage Divine ! I pray Thee, leave me free

To haunt Earth's holy places : loss of Heaven

Will scarce affect whom pleasure least attracts."

And Rama answered :—" Have thy wish ! " and turned.

XI.] StTA^S WEDDING 111

And shot his arrow Eastward, barring so,

Spite of his merits, for all time to come,

To Bhrigu's Son the path to Paradise.

Then Rama clasped his feet, and pardon craved :

To bear him humbly toward a conquered foe

Fits well a Hero ! Then that Saint replied :

—

330

" My mother's sinful nature now at length

Is cast off wholly ; peace I win from strife.

My Sire's blest state ; yea, loss itself bears fruit

Matured and perfect, by Thy favour, Lord

!

Now I depart :—unhindered be Thy course

To work deliv'rance for the Blessed Gods !

"

The Brother-princes thus the Saint addressed,

And vanished from men's sight. Then Rama's Sire

Embraced his Hero-son, in pride and love,

As snatched from Death ; and now new-born deHght 340

Dispelled his transient fear, as cooling showers

Soon quench a forest-fire around a tree,

The woodland's pride. So, after certain nights

Spent on the march in pleasant rustic bowers.

The Monarch, far-renowned as (^iva's self,

Reached his Ayodhya, where the city-dames

Came crowding fast, and filled the lattices

With eager eyes, to gaze on Sita fair

!

112 RAGHUVANCA [cakto

CANTO XII

The Banishment of Rhna ; the Carrying-away of Sita ; her

Rescue^ afid Ravaiias Defeat and Death.

Now Dagaratha, having known all joys

Of sense, and entering on life's final stage,

Neared his eclipse, as fades before the dawn

The lamplight. Fearing Kaikeyi, Old Age

Squat at his ear and hidden in grey hairs

—

Urged that the Kingdom be to Rama given.

Then rumour spread that Rama should be King,

The people's Darling, gave to every man

His inmost heart's desire, as springs refresh

—

Spread through a garden—every tree alike. lo

But when for his Anointing all was ripe,

Kaikeyi interposed with fell resolve,

Marred all the pomp, and drew hot tears of grief

From her Lord's aged eyes. In vain he sought

To soothe her rage,—who urged more veh'mently

Two promises erst made, as flooded plains

Drive hissing from their holes two monstrous snakes.

One promise now she used, for fourteen years

DACARATHA'S DISTRESS

XII.] TUIAL AND TRIUMPH 113

To banish Rama,—with the next she claimed

(Though well she knew the cost, her husband's life), 20

For her own son the Royal throne. With tears.

At bidding of his Father, Rama took

The world-wide Realm, but with all cheerfulness

Received the doom of exile. Sore amazed.

The people marked his aspect all unchanged,

Both when he wore the robes of royal state,

And when the bark-dress. Lakshman and Sita

He took for his companions, and possessed

Both Dandaka's wide forest and the hearts

Of all who virtue loved : so he discharged 30

From stain upon his truth his Kingly Sire.

That Sire, heart-broken at his exile, knew

How by rash act of yore he earned the curse

;

And, deeming only Death could make him pure,

Forsook the throne and sought for ways to die.

Then foes, that eager watched for wasting flaws,

Pounced on the realm, whose King was now eclipsed.

And Rama banished. Aged councillors

The people, masterless, sent to recall

Prince Bharata, then with his mother's kin, 40

And dried their tears. But when that noble Prince

Heard how his Father died, the Kingly state

Grew hateful to him,—and his mother too.

With armed host he followed Rama's steps,

And marked with many a tear where Hermits showed

The trees 'neath which with Lakshman he had slept.

H

114 RAGHUVANCA [canto

When found in Chitrakfita's forest, first

He told their Father's passing ; next, he urged ,

Persistent his return, to wed the Realm,

Whose charms now withered unenjoyed. Himself so

He deemeB a mere supplanter, gathering

The fruits of Earth, while Rama still delayed,

His elder brother, Fortune's hand to claim.

But Rama yielded not ; he rather chose

His sainted Father's doom to abide,—and gave.

Long-urged, as pledges of his right as King,

The Royal sandals. Then the Prince went back,

Yet entered not the city ; but, encamped

In Nandi, ruled the Kingdom as a trust.

Not as his own : firm in his loyalty, 60

Not grasping at the crown, pure Bharata

Made expiation for his mother's crime.

But Rama with bright Sita lived content

A forest-life, sustained on forest-food,

And—with his younger brother-—while in youth

Took up the life austere and rigid vows

That bind in age Ikshvaku's mighty line.

Now on a day when, wearied with the chase,

His head awhile he laid in Sita's lap.

Beneath a forest-king, whose spreading shade 70

Was fixed by power divine, great Indra's bird,

As 'twere in scorn of Rama's love-contests.

Scratched with his claws her breasts. She quickly roused

BHARATA'S ARRIVAL AT CHITRAKUTA

"^B R A ;^'

or THE

UNIVERSITY

OF

XII.] TRIAL AND TRIUMni 115

Her mighty Lord, who with a blade of grass

The offender smote, and bUnded one rash eye.

But Rama deemed his refuge all too near,

Lest Bharat might return to urge his suit.

And left the glades on Chitrakuta's slopes.

Whose deer lamented when he left. He passed

Far to the South, as welcome guest received 80

In Hermits' huts ;—so in the Autumn months

The Sun for southern quarters quits the North.

Him following Videha's Princess shone,

Bright as the Kingdom's Genius, fain to woo

His Royal virtues, by Kaikeyi's wiles

Forbid to wed him. Perfumes strangely sweet,

From Anasuya's ointment on her limbs.

She shed around her, luring so the bees

From forest-blossoms. Black as cloud of night,

A Rakshasa, Viradha named, stood up, 90

Opposing Rama's march, as Rahu's bulk

Obstructs the moon. Then sudden from between

The guardian Brothers he the Princess tore,

As drought licks up the rain in Autumn months.

But him the Heroes slew, Kakutstha's sons,

And,—ere the fetid stench from his foul limbs

Could taint the world,—they quickly buried him.

Then at Agastya's bidding Rama fixed.

The bounds of right observing, his abode

In wide Panchavati, as Vindhya high 100

Stands stablished in his might. To Rama there

116 RAGHUVANgA [canto

Came Ravan's sister, faint with love, as seeks

A snake oppressed with heat on Malaya

The forest's grateful shade. Her shameless love

The crook-clawed Demon told, nor shamed to tell

In Sita's very presence : true it is,

That woman's high-strung love respects no bounds.

She told her lineage too :—but he replied,

—

" Ah, Maiden, I am wedded ! seek the love

Of my young brother !

"—so the love-sick maid no

Bull-shouldered Rama counselled. She forsooth

Had sought out Lakshman first, and so returned

Again to Rama, as alternately

A stream sweeps either bank. Her Sita's laugh

From momentary softness roused to rage,

As Ocean's waves that sleep 'neath windless skies

Are swollen by the Moon. "Beware ! " she cried,

" This scorn thou 'It dearly rue ! Thou, timid roe.

Hast dared a tiger's fury ! Look, and fear !

"

So spake the Demon threatening : Sita shrank 120

Against her husband's breast, dismayed to see

The foe resume her hideous shape, and spread

Her murderous claws. Heroic Lakshman too,

Who heard a gentle, dove-like cooing first.

Then wolfish bowlings, knew her for transformed,

—

He drew his sword, swift burst into the hut,

And hacked with blow on blow that awful shape.

She flying upward shook a threatening hand,

With fingers crooked, thick as knotted reeds,

XII.] TRIAL AND TRIUMPH 117

Then flew to Janasthan, and told her wrongs 130

To Khara and his peers,—new insult heaped

By Rama on the Demon-host. In wrath

They made her wrongs their own, whose lips and mouth

Were scored and scarred, and courted foul defeat,

Attacking Rama. On they boldly came.

With arms uplifted, whom when Rama saw,

—

His hope of victory laying on his bow,

—

His Spouse he left to Lakshman's guard. The foes

Were full a thousand, Rama only one,

Yet in the fight each several Demon found 140

A foe to meet him. Dushana he smote,

Sent as their champion, as pure-living men

Smite fleshly lusts :—him first, and Khara next,

And Trigiras : so swift he slew the three.

They seemed to fall together. His bright darts

Pierced through them, and—unstained—drank their foul

lives.

The birds their blood. Soon of that Demon-host,

By Rama's arrows quelled, save headless trunks

Nought on the plain stood up ; beneath the rain

He showered on them all that dread array 150

Lay lapt in endless slumber, while foul wings

Of filthy vultures hovered o'er their heads.

Alone escaping, Siirpanakha bore

The news of foul defeat at Rama's hands

To mighty Ravan, sore dismayed, who deemed

That by his sister's maiming, then defeat

118 RAGHUVANgA [canto

And slaughter of his kinsmen, his ten heads

Lay trampled in the dust by Rama's heel.

By magic art a Demon at his word

Took form of deer, and Raghu's sons deceived i6o

By futile chase, and—though a while delayed

By staunch Jatayti—Sita bore away.

The brothers seeking her the Vulture found

With mangled pinions, who with failing breath

Love's final debt to Dagaratha paid.

In faltering words he told how Ravan fell

The Princess tore away : his wounds declared

His brave resistance : then he died. The twain.

Who late, had mourned a Father's loss, renewed

For him as for a parent funeral rites, 170

And reared a lofty pyre. Bold Rama then,

Kabandha's counsel following, who by death

Escaped from lifelong curse, made treaty firm

And strong aUiance with the Monkey-King,

Sugriva, mourning like himself a bride

Late torn away. The Hero quick discrowned

Usurping Bali, and his friend restored

—

Sugriva—to his throne, as fitter word

Displaces one less fit. The Monkey-hosts

At Rama's bidding sped to every clime, 180

And like his owrt sad thoughts searched through the world.

Sampati meeting, Hanuman at length,

The Wind-god's son, had news where Sita dwelt,

And crossed the Ocean,—as a happy soul

XII.] TRIAL AND TRirMlMI 110

The stream of Death. Last, searching Lanka through,

He found the fair Princess, but compassed round

By Demon-guards,—a fair mimosa clasped

By poisonous creepers. Rama's token first,

The ring, he gave, which she with joyful tears

Bedewed,—then with her husband's love-words cheered. 190

Stout Aksha next he slew, and—high of heart

—

Set Lanka all in flames, then for brief space

Sustained unequal fight. His work so done.

He hied him back to Rama, and the ring

—

His Sita's token—showed, as 'twere the heart

She fain had sent. As Rama touched the gem.

He closed his eyes in rapture, and in thought

Felt her heart beating on his own : so keen

His longing was to meet his prisoned Love,

That Ocean circling Lanka round appeared 200

A narrow moat, no more. ^ At once he marched.

The Demon-foes to quell,—while Monkey-hosts

Behind him swarmed, careering through the air

Not less than on the earth. On Ocean's shore

He fixed his camp ; to whom Vibhishan came,

His brother's side deserting, sage advice

In love to Rama offering,—wise in time.

To him did Rama give the Demon-realm

In recompense : so ever counsel sage

And timely bears rich fruit. Across the sea 210

The Hero laid a bridge, resembling much

That mighty Serpent which for Vishnu's sleep

120 RAGHUVAN^A [canto

Above the waters rises. So he crossed,

And Lanka close besieged with tawny Apes,

That like a doubled golden rampart showed.

Then Demons joined in deadly strife with Apes,

And Heaven resounded with their battle-cries,

—

For Ravan or for Rama. Steel-bound clubs

By trees were shattered, maces split on rocks,

And claws gave wounds more terrible than steel, 220

While elephants dashed rocks in splinters small.

Fair Sita watched the fight : and swooned at sight

Of Rama's head struck off, but soon revived

When good Trijata told that Rama lived.

And 'twas but glamour. At this healing word,

Her sorrow turned to joy ; yet loving shame

Still ruled her as she thought,—" I yet could live,

While thinking He was dead ! " Now in the fight

Bold Meghanada's noose one moment bound

The mighty Brethren, whom the Bird of Heaven 230

Loosed, swooping down ; so soon that peril passed,

It seemed a dream, no more. The Demon-King

Pierced Lakshman's breast with deadly spear,—whereat

The heart of Rama, though himself unharmed,

Was cleft in twain by sorrow. Healing herbs

The Monkey-monarch brought, and salved the wound,

—

And Lakshman swift reviving with keen shafts

Again taught Lanka's wives to weep. No more

He suffered Meghanada's shout, but snapped

His bow that rivalled Indra's,—Autumn so 240

XII.] TRIAL AND TRIUMPH V2\

Dissolves a cloud. Stout Kumbhakarna next,

By Hanuman to woeful straits reduced,

Like his fell sister, Rama's self assailed,

—

Wide-gaping like a rocky cave. Him soon

The Hero's arrows sent to sleep in death :

And Rama mused,—" Much lovedst thou sleep, my foe !

And wert untimely roused in evil hour."

The Brethren many a famous Rakshas more

Smote with their arrows till the battle-dust

Was smothered with their blood in copious streams. 250

At length came Ravan forth again to fight.

His palace leaving, well resolved that now

The Worlds that day should either Rdma lose

Or Ravan. On he drove his fenced car

To where the Hero stood,—till Indra sent

His chariot and bay steeds to Rama's help.

That car auspicious, leaning on the arm

Of Mathali, He mounted,—while its flag

Waved in the breeze, cool from the waters pure

Of Heaven's own river. Indra's mail he donned, 260

Helped by the charioteer,—that mail from which

Repelled the Daityas' arrows fell to earth,

Soft as frail lotus-stems. Herce battle raged

Between the mighty foes, who found at last,

So meeting, scope to show their matchless might.

Fell Ravan fought alone, his hosts withdrawn,

But by his many necks, and heads, and arms,

Appeared encircled by his mother's kin.

122 RAGHUVANQA [canto

The Demon-foe, whose might prevailed of yore

Against the world's great Guardians, who had won 270

His boon from Brahma—offering up his heads,

Who poised aloft Kailasa, Rama held

A worthy foeman. Ravan, fiercely wroth,

Drove deep his arrow in that strong right arm.

Which, wildly-throbbing, told he should redeem

His fair Princess. Then Rama loosed a shaft

Which, piercing Ravan's breast, lodged in the ground.

Glad tidings bearing to the Serpent-world.

The fight grew stern ; each hero matched his foe,

With sword for sword, and taunt for taunt, as when 280

Two rival speakers strive for mastery.

Swayed by their equal valour Victory

Long wavered, as a rampart set between

Two raging elephants. The showers of shafts

That either poured on other stayed the fall

Of flowers rained down by Gods and Demons, keen

To mark the rapid interchange of blows.

Then Ravan dashed an iron-studded mace,

Fell as the club of Death, of silkwood formed,

Full at his foe. But Rama with keen shafts, 290

Curved-headed, cut the mace in twain or e'er

It reached the chariot,—like a slender twig,

—

Thus shattering the Demons' soaring hopes.

Then did the matchless archer to his string

Lay that unerring arrow, Brahma named,

A simple meet to heal the stinging pain

XII.] TRIAL AND TRIUMPH 123

That gnawed his Sita's heart. With flaming points,

Split in a hundred parts, resembling most

The Serpent-King's huge frame, when baleful gleams

His awful hood, it hurtled through the air. 300

Then in a moment, winged with spells, the shaft

Smote off,—the wound unfelt,—the whole ten heads

Of Ravan. But the line of headless necks

Shone, as the body fell, with fitful gleams.

Like morning sunbeams sparkling on a lake,

By wavelets broken. Even then the Gods,

Though all the heads had fallen, scarce rejoiced

With full rejoicing ; for they feared those heads

(As erst befell) might join the trunk once more.

Then fell on Rama's head, which soon should wear 310

The Kingly crown, a rain of fragrant flowers.

Poured by the joyful Gods,—while on them swarmed

(Their wings with honey laden) bees that late

Forsook the perfumed streams which from the brows

Distilled of Elephants that guard the Worlds.

Now Rama soon unbent his mighty Bow,

The Gods' high mandate well fulfilled ; and now

The Charioteer of Indra bade farewell,

And drove to Heaven his car with thousand bays,

While waved aloft the flags which Ravan's shafts 320

Pierced through and through. The Lord of Raghu's

line

Took back his well-loved Bride from purging fires,

And to his loyal friend Vibhishan gave

124 RAGHUVANCA [canto

The crown he tore from Ravan. Then by him

Followed, by Lakshman, and by Hanuman,

—

King o'er the Monkey-host,—the radiant Car

Won by his valour from proud Ravana

He mounted joyfully, and homeward sped.

XIII.] RAMA'S RETURN 125

CANTO XIII

Rama's Triumphant Return with Sitd

Incarnate now in Rama, Vishnu's self,

High Judge of virtue, crossed in Heavenly Car

His sound-pervaded realm,—and, as He gazed

On Ocean rich in pearls, his Spouse addressed

In love's soft tones :—"See, Fairest! how my bridge

Yon foamy mass now spans, as Autumn's skies

Unruffled, bright with stars, the Milky Way

Divides in twain. This sea, old stories tell.

Of yore my Sires made flow, when in their quest

They tore up Earth to reach the Victim-horse

By Bali to Patala led, to stop

Their father's sacrifice. The sunbeams hence

Derive engendering virtue, riches swell.

And viewless fire is bred, and moonlight mild.

Like Vishnu's self almighty, multiform.

Unmeasured, subtle, all ten spti^res it clasps.

Transcendent in its worth as in its power.

" The Soul Supreme, by Brahma's praise extolled

(From whom the Lotus springs whereon he sleeps),

126 RAGHUVANgA [canto

Upon its breast reclines, when ends the Age

Of working, when—absorbing all that is

—

He sinks again to rest. To Ocean's arms

The mountain-hosts dismayed in hundreds fled,

Shorn of their pride when Indra clipped their wings.

As to a King revered when whelmed by foes

The neighbouring monarchs flee. Its waters clear

Swelled at the Deluge, and one moment's space

Earth's cheeks made lovely, till the Mighty God

Upheaved her from Patala. All his wives.

Impartial in his love, he greets alike.

With wavy lips receiving kisses sweet

From eager river-mouths. Those monsters see

!

With yawning mouths they drink the fishy flood,

Close with a snap their mighty jaws, and spout

Great streams of water through their fissured skulls.

Sudden leap up the monster crocodiles,

And cleave the foam, while on their cheeks the spray

Like sparkling eardrops clings. Here piled-up shells.

Which rushing waters tear from coral-sprays

That mock thy ruby lips, hang on the points

Of slender branchlets, till at length they fall

—

Their strength exhausted. Wide-backed Ocean now,

Grazed by the waterspout that stooped to drink

Till by fierce storm-wind driven, milk-white gleams.

As when of yore with mighty Mandara churned

By hosts Divine. Along the salt deep's shore,

That stretches slender like a copper rim.

XIII.] RAMAS RETURN 127

Wave dark Tamalas mixed with forest-palms,

Like streak of rust on polished metal's gleam.

" Bride with dark almond-eyes ! the landward breeze so

With Ketak-Y>o\\en dusts thy cheek,—a care

By me omitted, while I pine to taste

Thy ruby lips. Our swiftly-rolling car

Now in a moment brings us to that shore,

Where from cleft shells lie pure pearls richly heaped.

Where betel-trees fruit-laden sweep the sands.

Look down, O Queen, whose roe-like eyes delight

And form of ample curves, and mark our way !

As Ocean vanishes see how boon Earth,

Clothed with green woods, seems sinking as we gaze ! 60

Obedient to my will this Car Divine

Cleaves now the sphere of Gods, anon of clouds,

Now skims the path of birds. A breeze from Heaven,

—

Sweet-laden by Airavat's fragrant brows,

Cooled by the spray from triple Ganga's flood,

Wipes from thy brows those drops that morning's heat

Had raised. The cloud, by lightnings braceleted,

Touched by thy curious hand through lattice stretched.

My hasty Queen ! with double gold is decked.

These bark-clad Eremites, who deem that now 70

This Dandaka is free from hindrances

To Saintly works, well-pleased rebuild their homes.

Too long forsaken. In this very glade

I vainly sought thee, found an anklet dropped,

Struck dumb with sorrow, riven from thy foot,

128 RAGHUVANgA [canto

That mocks the lotus' hue. Ah, timid Fair !

These creepers, dumb yet pitying, bent their arms

To show the path by which the Rakshasa

Had borne thee,—bending low the tender tips

Of all their boughs. Their fragrant food the roes 80

Neglecting, gazed with moveless brows full south.

And taught my ignorance the way thou 'dst gone.

" There in our front soars Malaya to Heaven,

Whereon the clouds dropped rain, and I salt tears

For loss of thee. There, reft of thee, the scents

Which lakes, fresh-filled by clouds, exhaled I loathed

;

Kadamba flowers, half-opened, pleased me not.

Nor peacocks' low, sweet tones ; the thundering clouds.

From caves resounding, harshly struck my ear.

Who thought on thee, my timorous Love ! who erst 90

Didst sportive hide thee, teasing. There thine eyes,

Beauteous, yet clouded by the smoke that rose

From marriage-fires, tormented,—while half-oped

Bright fungus-growths (earth yet in cloud-mist veiled)

Were vainly emulous. Scarce can the sight,

Far-darting downwards, Pampa's lake descry.

With storks at play, shut in 'mid circling brakes

Of mighty reeds. There, Love ! I fondly gazed

On happy Chakravdkas, in their love

United still, in gracious ministry 100

Each giving to his mate fresh lotus-blooms,

While I was reft of thee ! When all in tears

By river-bank a lithe Afoka-trunk,

XIII.] RAMA'S RETURN 129

Bent by its swelling clusters like fair breasts,

I vainly clasped, and thought I held thee, Queen !

Lakshman forbade me. O'er Godavari's waves

Now soar the cranes, scared hy the golden bells

That tinkle round our Car, so welcoming thee

With all their white array. This sacred grove,

Where thou didst nurse the mango, tender-framed, no

With daily watering,—where the deer look up

Expectant of thee,—now once more I see

More gladly for long absence. I recall

How on a day, worn out by toil of chase

By this Godavari's streams, while spray-cooled winds

Dried off my face the sweat, my weary head

I rested on thy breast in reed-built hut.

Here while on earth that famous Saint had dwelt,

Who cleared the streams of mud, whose wrinkling brow

Hurled Nahusha of old from Indra's realm. 120

" Free from all lust, here takes my soul delight

To sniff the scented smoke from altar-fires

Well-fed, that triple rise full in our path.

And lightly meet the Car,—by spotless Saint

Enkindled. Here, high Lady ! gleams the lake

Of ^atakarni's pleasures,—' Five Nymphs ' named.

Embowered in distant woods, a second moon

Half-seen amid the clouds. Of old, men tell.

Amid the deer he lived, and Darbha grass

Alone he ate, till Indra, much dismayed 130

At such strict penance, bound him in the toils

I

130 RAGHUVANCA [canto

Of five celestial Nymphs. The cymbal's clang

Harmonious and the music of the voice,

Still rising from his palace closely-hid,

Wake momentary echoes from the hood

That shades our Car.

" Here mild Sutikshna dwells.

High merit storing up, 'mid four fierce fires,

The blazing Sun a fifth. Him Indra sought,

Anxious, to tempt through wanton Nymphs' bright eyes,

With laughter beaming, and coquettish wiles 140

That half-revealed their zones,—but vainly sought.

With arms uplifted now he waves the right.

With holy beads encircled, graciously

Requiting courtesy,—that arm wherewith

He strokes the hinds and gathers sacred grass.

Vowed to strict silence, only with his head

Bowed slightly he returns my courteous words,

And—now the Car is past—his constant gaze

Again has sought the Sun. Yon penance-grove

Afforded Carabhanga's rites austere 150

Pure shade, who long the fire with fuel fed.

And last his body gave, by Holy Texts

From sin redeemed. The welcome of his guests

His worthy sons, those trees, give now, whose shade

Dispels long journeying's toil, whose luscious fruit

"'Veighs down their branches. Chitrakuta's peak,

O lithe-limbed Lady ! now enchants the eye ;

—

Like stately bull he stands, his mouth a cave,

XIII.] RAMA'S RETTTRN 131

With cascade-roar loud-bellowing, highest peaks

Cloud-capped like horns lime-whitened from a wall. i6o

Low at his base, with rapids smooth, shines out

—

By distance thread-like made,—Mandakini,

A pearly band on Earth's sweet neck ! 'Twas here

That from a tall Tamala fragrant blooms,

Hard by the mountain-side, I plucked, and twined

Bright earrings for thy cheeks, as barley pale.

" Here in the wood doth pious Atri keep

His vows austere ; with herds of beasts 'tis filled

That fear no harm,—nor need his trees to flower

Before they fruit. Here AnasClya brought 170

The threefold Ganga, Civa's crown, to earth,

That Holy men, in merit rich, might bathe

Where erst the mighty Seven golden blooms

Of lotus gathered. Hermits' very trees,

While they within their huts are plunged in thought,

Amid the altar-precincts motionless.

Their leaves unstirred by wind, themselves seemed

wrapped

In pious contemplation. Here, my Love !

Behold the dark-leaved fig-tree thou didst choose.

Which, bowed with fruit, glows like an emerald-heap 180

With rubies interspersed. A necklet here

Thou seest of pearls, 'midst which the emerald gleams.

There a pure lily-crown, where sapphire-like

The lotus glows : that string of birds beheld,

That love the Manas-lake, where sw ans appear,

132 R A G H U V A N g A [canto

White-winged : there on the Earth a yellow band

Of sandalwoods, picked out with aloes dark.

" See here the Moon's bright orb with sable shade

Streaked sharply,—therethrough rifted autumn-clouds

Resplendent shows Heaven's blue. Here, might one

say, 190

Is Civa's body dark, with black snake girt,

And smeared with' ashes : there see, peerless Queen !

Where Ganga rolls her flood, by Jamna cleft.

Those souls, men say, that cast the mortal coil.

Washed in the confluent waters of these twain,

Unknowing even of the Soul Supreme,

No more are sent to earth. Nishada dwells

In yon fair city : there, when I refused

The crown and bound my locks up Hermit-wise,

Sumantra mourning cried :—' Ah, Kaikeyi

!

200

Thy wish is now fulfilled !

' Sarayii here.

Whose source the wise have traced to Brahma's lake,

Where golden lilies charm fair Yakshis' hearts,

Rolls mighty : so flows Mind from Soul Supreme.

Its banks well lined w^ith sacrificial stones.

Past proud Ayodhya sweeps its flood,—where bathe,

After Horse-Sacrifice, Ikshvaku's sons.

And sanctify its waves. It fills my soul

With reverence, common Mother of the Kings

Of Northern Kogala, who find delight 210

In her sand-islets and abundant stream.

" Sarayfi now, my noble Father lost.

XIII.] RAMANS RETURN 133

Indeed my Mother seems, and clasps me round

Though distant yet—with wavy arms that stir

A cooHng breeze. As dusky twilight grey,

Before us dust-clouds rise : I augur thence

That Bharata from Hanuman has heard

News of my coming, and with all his hosts

Prepares to welcome me. My Father's realm.

That Father's vow to keep, I left ; but now, 220

My penance o'er, that virtuous Prince restores

The Royal State unblemished : rescued so,

Thee Lakshman gave, won back by slaughter grim

Of Khara and his peers. To meet me now

On foot comes Bharata, our household Priest

Placed in the van, his army's serried ranks

Close following : he in Hermit-dress comes forth,

And old-time councillors bear gifts in hand.

From love to me the Prince, in flush of youth.

Wed not fair Lakshmi, whom his Sire bequeathed, 230

Who sought herself his arms : yea, all these years

Abiding with her, yet he tasted not

Pure wedlock's joy !"

As Rama spake, the Car,

—

That knew by sense divine his unspoke will,

—

Swift glided from the sky, by wondering eyes

Of Bharat's hosts observed. Then, on the hand

Apt for all service—of the Monkey-King

One moment leaning, Rama lighted down,

—

On well-wrought ladder stepping, crystal-runged,

134- RAGHUVANCA [canto

Held by Vibhishan. First the reverend Sage, 240

Priest of Ikshvaku's line, he greeted well,

Then took the gifts, and—bathed in tears—embraced

His brother Bharat, kissing that leal head,

Which, reigning in his stead, refused the Crown.

Courteous he welcomed old-time ministers,

With beards untrimmed, and hair like Peepal-roots

Close-matted ; they with tuneful voices asked

Respectful of his welfare. Spake the King :

—

"Behold my friend, of Riksha's Monkey-hosts

Great Chief, my stay in trouble : next the stout 250

Vibhishan know ! " Then Bharat hailed the twain,

By Rama praised, ere Lakshman he embraced,

Sumitra's son, upraising his bent head,

And to his bosom clasping,—close, more close,

He well-nigh bruised his breast on cruel scars

Which Indrajit had left. At Rama's word

At once the Monkey-chiefs took human shapes,

And mounted elephants, whose mighty brows

Streamed ichor sweet, rejoicing as to climb

Great mountains. At his word the Rakshas-King, 260

With all his hosts ascended cars unmatched

In splendour by their own, by magic art

Fair-fashioned. Then the Chief of Raghu's line

Once more sat in his car, and with him sat

His Brothers, and the banner at his will

Moved or was steady,—as the stars' high Lord,

The Moon, shines glorious climbing up a bank

XIII.] RAMANS RETURN 135

Of dusky clouds at evening, lightning-streaked,

With Jupiter attending and his Sire.

Then Bharat praised the beauteous Maithili, 270

From Ravan's grasp by Rama's might set free,

As from dark flood the Lord of worlds saved Earth,

Or when the rains are over clears the moon

From cloudy masses. So her dazzling feet.

Who faithful kept her vow and dashed the hopes

Presumptuous Ravan nursed, set on tlie head

Of him whose matted locks proclaimed the faith

He kept unswerving to his elder's claim :

—

Each to the other greater lustre lent.

Then glorious Rama half a kos advanced, 280

Escorted by his folk, while Pushpaka,

—

His Car Celestial,—checked its magic speed

;

Then in the pleasure-forest dwelt well-pleased.

That round Ayodhya stretched, where Catrughna

With careful foresight had prepared the Camp.

136 RAGHUVANCA [canto

CANTO XIV

The Resioratton oj Rama to his Kingdom,

and the Divorce of Sita.

Then did the Princely Brothers seek the homes

Where dwelt their mothers, sorrow-stricken Queens,

Of husband late bereaved,—like clinging-plants

Forlorn and left of strong protecting trunk.

The Heroes twain, resplendent in their might.

Bent low before the Queens, whose happy eyes

(By tears half-bhnded) scarce discerned their forms.

Though each was blessed, as in her mother's arms

She clasped her son. But in the Heroes' eyes

The soothing tear of joy cut sorrow short, lo

As Jamna's torrent rushing from the rocks

Cleaves Ganga's heated wave. Condolingly

They touched the scarce-healed scars the Demon's wounds

Left on their bodies : nay, the much-prized name,

" Mother of heroes," brought them little joy

Who felt its pains. Then Sita, bending low.

Her Husband's mother greeted, nor transgressed

The line of awful duty, while she said :

—

XIV.] DIVORCE OF StT A 137

" Lo, here is Sita, fatal to her Lord,

Not worthy your regard ! " " Dear Daughter, rise !

"

20

(So said they) " 'Twas thy spotless life alone

That brought thy Lord and Lakshman through their toils

Triumphant." Then with loving words and true

They praised her, worthy Wife of worthy Lord.

Thus with their joyful tears the widowed Queens

Began the sacring,—which with hallowed stream,

From many a sainted river, poured from jars

Of gold unmixed, the Kingdom's Senators

Completed,—of pure Raghu's Hero-son.

From seas and streams and lakes the loyal Chiefs 30

Of Demons and of Monkeys brought great store

Of water, pouring it on Rama's head,

As rain in torrents falls on Vindhya's peaks

From Autumn-clouds. The splendid robes of state

To Him fresh lustre gave, whose lovely limbs

The ascetic's dress scarce veiled, nor feared reproach

Of over-gorgeousness. Then with his hosts,

His sage advisers, loyal Demons, Apes,

He to his Father's home passed : arches spanned

The roads, and rice from lattices was poured 40

In welcoming showers. High in his Car of State

The Hero sat, while Lakshman gently waved

The royal fan, and Bharat screened his head.

Like Kingship's triple powers to Earth come down

Rose from the palaces wind-cloven smoke.

As 'twere the long-bereaved City's hair.

138 RAGHUVANgA [canto

Its braids unloosing at the King's return.

Next Sita, Rama's Queen, in litter borne,

—

Dressed by her husband's kin in glorious robes,

—

Ayodhya's matrons hailed, with clasped hands 50

From palace-windows gazing. She the rare,

Exhaustless unguent, Anasuya's gift.

Had deftly used ; a halo round her shone ;

And doubly pure she beamed, shown by her Lord

From cleansing fires come forth. That King himself,

Deep mine of friendship, to his friends assigned

Well-ordered dwellings ; then with tears went in

To that revered home, where dwelt his Sire,

His image only left. With clasped hands,

And loving words, he soothed Kaikeyi's shame, 60

And hailed her " Mother ! " " WeW," he said, " thou didst

:

To thee we owe it that our Sire held firm,

Nor swerved from truth, and by that truth won Heaven !

"

Sugriva, and Vibhishan, and the rest,

With splendid courtesies he entertained.

That, though to have they needed but to wish,

Their minds sank overpowered. To Saints Divine,

Come down from Heaven to do him reverence,

He paid due honour : they His might extolled,

And told in sacred numbers all the tale 70

Of His high birth, His acts, and foe subdued.

So like a dream the days uncounted flew,

Till half a month was spent :—the Saints were gone

;

Then, richly guerdoned by the Queen's own hand,

THE ENTHRONEMENT OF RAMA

Om Tat Sat

(Continued ..)

(My humble salutations to Kavikula Guruh Kalidasa and  greatfulness to Sreeman C H Tawney

 for the collection)