THE RAGHUVAMSA by Kavikula Guru Sri Kalidasa -4

THE

RAGHUVAMSA

THE STORY

OF RAGHU'S LINE

BY KALIDASA

TRANSLATED BY

P. DE LACY JOHNSTONE

58 RAGHUVANCA [canto

CANTO VII

Ajas Wedding ; and hoiv he smote his treacherous Rivals

on his Way Home.

Vidarbha's King then led the joyous train

To wed his sister to that worthy Lord,

—

Like Skanda mating with the Heavenly Host.

As morning-planets when the day begins,

Went to their camps the rival-Kings chagrined.

Scorned by Indumati. Both mien and dfess

Revealed their angry mood ; but Cachi's power

Prevailed, and none disturbed the marriage-rite.

Then with her Bridegroom went the royal Bride, '

Where o'er their way fresh garlands stretched, and where lo

Like Indra's bow flashed paintings on the gates,

While shading banners kept away the heat.

Bright maids at golden lattices looked out,

To see the Prince, nor heeded other work,

But lit with glancing motions all the house.

Thus shone they various :—one in hot haste ran

To reach the lattice, while her hand held up

Her clustered locks, from which the loosened wreath

VII.] INDUMATi 59

Had well-nigh fall'n, nor stayed to bind her hair.

Another changed her mincing gait, and sped 20

To gaze, her footsteps marking with red lac.

Still dripping liquid from that dainty foot

Her handmaid stained ; a third one held the brush,

One brow well-darkened and the other bare,

—

Yet so she went to gaze ; her dress one maid

Held up, which down had slipped and left unclad

Her form irradiate by the bracelet's gleam.

Nor tied her zone,—so hurried was her pace.

And one with cramped toes kept up the belt,

Where half its gems were strung, and limping ran 30

To see the wondrous sight. Most brilliant shone

Those windows lit within by glancing eyes,

That swam with joy, as scented with red wine.

And keen to know the least detail, like bees

They swarmed. Their eyes, fixed full on him alone,

Drank in the Prince's charms, as though their hearts

And senses all were merged and lost in sight.

The Princess, worthy of her suitor-Kings,

Deemed well her Choice had ended : only so

Could she have found an equal mate, as found 4°

Fair Lakshmi hers,—the mighty Lord of all.

Like Love they were and Springtime ; she had found

'Mong myriad Kings the soul that halved her own,

And claimed her beauty,—for the soul re-born

Knows of its former fates. The Prince, rejoiced

To hear sweet strains which city-matrons sang,

60 RAGHUVANCA [canto

Passed to the palace, where with welcoming wreath,

His royal brother waited. There the Priest

Revered of Bhoja, having duly served

The fire wjth butter clear, and set it forth 50

As witness of the wedding, joined that pair,

Pure bridegroom with pure bride. Prince Aja clasped

Her hand in his, and greater lustre gained,

As when a mango clasps with answering sprout

The Anoka's tendril. On his limbs the hair

Stood stiff for joy, while tender love made her

Glow radiant : 'twas as though their joined hands

Shared passion's fire between them ; pleasing pain

Shone in their meeting eyes, where mutual love

Stood self-revealed. Then round the blazing fire 60

They circled to the left, as day and night

Course round Mount Meru, and conjunctive beamed.

Next at the Priest's command, great Brahma's peer,

With love-lorn partridge-eyes the modest Bride

Threw on the fire her offering of rice,

While,—fed Avith cassia-shoots, fried grain, and oil,

—

Auspicious rose the flame, and round her cheek

Its tongue curled gently, winning for a space

Such lustre as the lotus in her ear

That trembled,—while her face grew rosy-red, 70

And ointment melted round her eyes diffused.

And barley-ears hung on her, at the Fire

That sanctified the rite. The princely pair

Sate on their golden throne, and glad received

vii] INDUMATl 61

What moist rice-grains the King, most noble host,

And householders, and matrons, threw on them.

That Monarch, mighty, lamp of his high race

(When now his sister's marriage was complete),

Sent to each suitor-King befitting gifts

By honoured hands, which they with feigned joy 80

Received ; but hid deep anger, as a lake

Whose quiet face hides many a scaly foe.

They thanked their host, requiting him with gifts

Of treacherous import ; then departing, planned

A conjoint subtle scheme to seize the Bride,

—

Which to work out they close beset the road

Whereby the Prince must go. Rich dowry gave.

As well beseemed, King Bhoja to the Maid,

And convoyed Aja on his journey home.

Three nights he camped with that world-famous Prince, 90

Then left him,—as the Moon deserts the Sun,

When fades her borrowed light. The rival- Kings,

Recalling earlier grievance 'gainst his Sire,

For tribute taken, now combined in wrath

To smite the Prince, who won from them the Pearl

Of women, Bhoja's sister. Bride and Prince

The haughty band of Kings stayed, as they drove,

As when Prahlada Vishnu's steps opposed,

When Bali's boon was given. The mighty Prince

Consigned his Bride for safety to the care 100

Of one both warrior tried and counsellor sage.

Then dashed impetuous on the hostile ranks.

62 RAGHUVANCA [canto

As ^ona's waves smite Ganga. Armies met

In equal shock of battle : foot to foot

Fought warriors, horse to horse, and car to car,

While clarions brayed. No tribal war-cry rose,

But famous names were known by hurtling shafts,

That smote the foe reluctant. Dust of strife,

By horses stirred and chariots, veiled the Sun

(Spread by the flapping ears of elephants), no

And tempered heat ; the while rich pennons waved,

Which, rent by rushing wind, devoured the dust

Raised by the hosts, as fish drink eagerly

Fresh Autumn's pools though muddy. Through thick clouds

The noise of wheels proclaimed a chariot, bells

Betrayed huge elephants, while friend and foe

Were only known from shouted names of chiefs.

Blood streamed from horses, elephants, and men,

By weapons wounded, shining as the Sun

New-risen, ruddy, o'er a field obscured 120

By dust-born darkness, hemming in men's sight.

That dust, whose root the blood had cut, streamed up

As smoke from fire new-kindled, while the wood

Lies in the hearth, blown sideways by the wind.

Now car-borne heroes, waking from their swoon

Sore-wounded, angry at their steeds' retreat,

Rebuked the drivers, turned their cars, dealt death

To those who gave them wounds,—by pennon known.

Now skilful archers' shafts, split in mid flight

By darts opposing, kept their onward course, 130

VII.] INDUMAT! 63

Infixing deadly barbs : in battle-shock

Met elephants, whose drivers' heads—smit off

By keen-edged quoits,—kites snatched with eager claw.

And lingering dropped. A horseman spared his foe

(Ev'n in the attack) if bruised by shock of horse,

And stayed his leisure. Like Death's banquet-hall

Showed that dread field,—with dead men's skulls for fruit.

For beakers fallen helmets, blood for wine.

But wounded elephants, whose mighty trunks

Sharp swords of mailed warriors half cut through, 140

High-frenzied, quenched with water-streams the sparks

Struck from the flashing steel :—so raged the fight.

One broken arm, which swooping vultures seized,

A greedy jackal caught, and hurt his jaw

On bracelet-buckle. Where a foeman's sword

Had cut the neck, straight to his Heavenly car

The warrior rose, and clasped his bride divine,

While still his lifeless trunk danced on the plain.

In mutual slaughter other two had fall'n,

Drivers and fighters ; leaping from their cars, 150

With clubs they first engaged ; when these were broke.

Close-locked in fiercest strife, by mutual wounds

At once they died :—then, suitors in the skies

To one fair Nymph, forthwith renewed the fight.

Now conquering, now defeated, swayed the hosts

Like Ocean's waves, that winds drive to and fro.

By dust-clouds veiled, as through damp morning-mist

The rising Sun shQws dimly. Last the Prince,

64 RAGHUVANCA [canto

Fair as the God of Love, unwearied still,

Launched at his foes that sleep-compelling dart, i6o

Which—heaven-derived—Priyamvada had given.

Then, struck to sleep, the Kings' whole armed host

Stood motionless : no strength to draw the bow

Was in their hands, while on their shoulders drooped

The helmet-chains ; they leaned against the staves

That bore the flags. Then raised he to his lips.

Whose sweets his Bride had tasted,—only she,

—

And blew the conch-shell, drinking (so it seemed)

Embodied glory, by his right hand won.

His warriors knew the note, faced round, and saw 170

Where slept his foes around him, as the Moon

Shines o'er closed lotuses on quiet lakes.

Then on their banners with his blood-stained shafts

Thus wrote the Prince,—" Your glory Raghu's son

Has taken from you, but your lives he spares

Of his mere mercy ! " Resting on his bow,

The garland breaking as he raised his helm.

His brow with sweat-drops moist,—his trembling Bride

He then approached, and spoke :—" Vidarbha's Child !

Behold our foes, I bid thee : infant hands 180

Might seize their weapons now. Could such as they,

So fighting, win thee from me ? " Then her face.

Recovering from alarm the foe had caused.

Shone brightly, as a mirror when damp breath

Is wiped away. Rejoicing, yet for shame

She praised him not herself, but by the lips

VII.] I N D U M A T

I

G5

Of handmaids,—as the fallow thanks the rain,

When early sprinkled, by the peacocks' song.

Then set he his left foot upon the crowns

Of those proud Kings ; this done, that faultless Prince 190

Bore off" his blooming Bride, whose ringlets bright

The dust from hoofs and wheels had stirred and tinged,

—

While like incarnate Victory she shone !

Now came he home, whom with his lovely wife

King Raghu welcomed, knowing all the news

And what had chanced. He then transferred the yoke

Of Kingship to his son, and eager turned

To tread himself the quiet way of Peace :

'Such in the Solar line is ever use

For Monarchs when their sons have come to age. 200

E

66 n A G H r V A N C A [cavto

CANTO \" I I I

Ajc^s early Happiness : DeafA of Indumati^

and his Lament. .

Thus mighty Raghu gave Prince Aja Earth,

A second bride with fair Indumati,

\\'hile still he wore the sacred marriage-ring.

^^^lat others seek by wrong to make their own,

He took submissive from his father's hand.

Not lusting after power. Then Earth with him,

By water hallowed and Vacishtha's spells,

In wedlock joined, by exhalations dense

Showed joy untold. The King, anointed such

By Saint deep-leamed in Atharva texts, lo

Foes could not hope to vanquish. Sacred Lore

And warlike glory twinned resistless work,

Like Wind and Fire : the people deemed their King

Was Raghu's self restored to second youth

;

For with the Royal State all Kingly grace

He had received. Two things with other two

Shone doubly-bright : his father's fame revived

By Aja, prudent age by vigorous youth.

The newly-subject Earth Uke virgin-bride

viii.] INDUMATI 67

He used with tender love, and curbed his strength, 20

Lest she should be dismayed. His subjects all

Thought each,—" 'Tis me the King loves best ! " for none

He scorned, as Ocean, wived with countless streams,

Meets all with equal love. Not over-harsh,

Nor yet too lenient, still the golden mean

He followed, causing neighbouring Kings to bow

Without uprooting, as the tender grass

Inclines before the wind. King Raghu then,

Who saw the Kingdom stablished in his son,

As he himself had ruled it, ceased from care 30

Of all things earthly, nay, of Heavenly joys :

—

Such still the wont of great Dilipa's race,

Who in their green old age make o'er the realm

To sons of equal virtue, while themselves.

Self-centred, tread the bark-clad Hermits' path.

But when the father sought to take his place

Among the pious band, his new-crowned son,

With head bowed low before him, prayed his Sire

Not so to leave him orphaned. Then the King

Vouchsafed the boon—for well he loved his son, 40

But took not up again his former state.

As snakes resume not sloughs once cast away.

So Raghu entered on life's latest stage.

And, freed from every care, in safe retreat

Hard by the City dwelt, while daughter-like

The Royal State performed her duteous part.

Now in that Kingly house the reverend Sire

68 RAGHUVANCA [canto

Had chosen Peace ; the Son in vigour ruled.

Bright as is Heav'n when day's great orb mounts high

And sinks the moon : , so Sire alike and Son 5°

Were both supreme,—one in the realm of war,

And one of pious work : each wore the dress

Which best befitted either, in the quest

Of earthly glory or of Final Bliss.

Then Aja, who was moved to conquer realms

Not yet subdued, took counsel sage with men

Deep-versed in statecraft : Raghu companied

jyith holy hermits, seeking joys Supreme.

On throne of justice Aja sat to watch

His people's weal ; his Sire, with senses quelled, 60

Slept on pure Kuca, far from haunts of men,

And weaned his thoughts from earth. By warlike might

That smote the Kings around him, this—by thought

On sacred subjects fixed—smote down the lusts

Which mortals feel. The younger King burnt up

The fruits his foes most longed for, while his Sire

With flame of Holy Lore consumed the deeds

Which else might bar Salvation. Seeking fruit

By earthly wisdom, Aja truces made,

Used other crafts of statesmen :—Ignorance, 70

Wrath, Virtue, Raghu stemmed to reach calm Bliss,

And gold he viewed as clods. The new-set King

Assiduous worked, nor ceased from worthy acts

Till dawned success ; while plunged in thought his Sire,

Detached from every earthly bond or wish.

vm.] INDUMATI 69

Sent forth his soul to join the Soul Supreme.

Thus in his sphere each watched to quell his foes :

—

The one proud Kings, the other worldly thoughts,

(One glory sought, the other Final Bliss,)

And each obtained his end. So Raghu passed, 80

That loving father, years of calm repose :

Then, breaking from the gloomy chains of life,

Devotion joined him to the Changeless Soul.

When this was told to Aja, long he wept.

Then summoned pious hermits, sacred Fire

Laid on the altar, and placed him in earth.

Untouched by fire : then Offerings to the Shades

He from mere love presented,—for 'tis known

That Saints departed need no funeral cake,

Nor claim it from their sons. By Rishis schooled, 90

In Holy Learning perfect, overmuch

He grieved not for that father passed to Heaven ;

But strung his conquering bow, and smiting down

All rival Kings, alone he ruled the World.

Him Earth had won and fond Indumati

For spouse, the glorious Hero : many gems

Earth gave him, and his mortal bride one son.

Whom, bright as sunshine, famous through the worlds

As Dagaratha, after ages knew

The Sire of Rama, ten-necked Ravan's foe. 100

So paid the King by study, sacrifice.

And fatherhood, that triple debt which men

Owe to the Saints, the Gods, the Blessed Shades,

—

70 RAGHUVANCA

And like the Sun shone glorious when he 'scapes

From misty halo. War's array he used

To free the oppressed from fear, his Sacred Lore

Served but to honour Saints, his wealth alike

He used and virtue for his people's good.

[canto

Thus in unclouded happiness he lived.

But grief lay ambushed. One sad, fatal day, no

With loved Indumati the King, who watched

His people like a flock, through pleasant groves

That girt the City strayed, as ^achi's Lord

And lover, Lord of Maruts, haunts the groves

That spread round Nandana. Then Narada,

Minstrel Divine, who sought Gokarna's Lord

To praise him with his lute, passed through the South

To northern climes,—while, greedy of the scent,

The rushing wind bore off the flowery crown

That decked the lute celestial. '\ Like a tear 120

From painted eye those flowers shone as they fell

By bees attended, ravished by the breeze.

That Heavenly wreath, before whose potent scent

Shrank shamed the blooming creepers, lighted soft

Down on the Queen's broad breasts, -Vwhich when she felt

A moment only on her ample chest,

The King's Beloved paled, and tottering swooned.

As fails the moonlight when the Moon is hid

:

She lifeless fell, and his life followed hers,

As lamp-spark falling takes the burning wick 130

VIII.] INDUMATi 71

Fed with rich oil. Scared by the loud laments

Their followers raised, the lotus-haunting birds

Screamed sympathetic ; they with fans revived

The King, but lifeless lay the Queen : unless

The vital spark be left all help is vain.

All tendance useless. He his Spouse raised up

Like lute untuned, and laid her in his lap,

Fit resting-place : she pale in death reclined,

As in grey dawn the Moon shows weird and wan.

Deep mourned he, tears nigh choked him, his firm mind

Was broken—even as heat intense will melt 141

The rigid iron ; ah ! how much the more

Grief melts men's hearts ! Thus wailed the stricken King :

—

" If Fate by touch of flowers can kill, what dart

May not be deadly when He seeks to slay ?

Or haply Death, to take a tender life

Chose shaft as tender : so, soft flakes of snow

Destroy the yielding lotus. Death perchance

To slay me launched his arrow ; while the tree

Yet stands unharmed, the creeper smitten falls, 150

Ah, why—who oft forgavest wrong I did

—

Dost thou unwarning shut those lips from me.

Who now have done no wrong ? Thou doubt'st my love,

O smiling Lady ! wherefore, scorning fraud,

(My leave unasked) thou took'st thy way to Heaven.

My maimed life pursued thee, but alone

Has now returned ; why can not I alone

Bear all the grief? Still on thy face, fair Spouse,

72 RAGHUVANgA [canto

Tired love has left its trace, but soul is fled

:

Alas, how transient are the lives of men! i6o

" No thought had I to vex thee,—why hast thou

Left me forlorn ? Thee only have I loved.

Though Earth too calls me Lord,—Lord but in name.

Ah, stately Lady, now thy rippling curls,

Bee-coloured, wreathed with flowers, wave in air.

And bid me hope that yet thou wilt return

Again to bless my life :—wake soon, O Love !

Soon bid my sorrow cease ! the Snowy Mount

Has caves lit up by plants that nightly shed

Light through them : so return to melt my gloom ! 17°

I grieve to see thy face, which locks dispersed

Disfigure, mute—once eloquent, as when

A lonely lotus slumbers, stilled the hum

Of bees that sleep there. Night regains her Moon,

The Cuckoo finds his mate, and parting's pangs

Are cured by meeting :—how canst thou, O Love,

Destroy my life by leaving me for aye ?

"Thy slender limbs scarce rested as they lay

On couch of freshest leaves :—how wilt thou then.

Fair Lady, bear the roughness of the pyre, 180

All bristling ? / See ! this zone, which first received

The tones of love, is mute, since thou liest still,

As 'twere a sorrowing friend that ev'n in death

Attends a loved one,—if thou wake no more !

Thy dulcet tones the Cuckoos have assumed.

To Swans hath passed thy slow and languorous gait,

I

VIII.] INDUMATi 73

Thy glance of love Gazelles now use, thy grace

The Creepers waving in the wind :—these all

Thou leftest me when soaring up to Heaven,

Yet soothe they not my heart, weighed down with woe 190

At thy departing.]! Didst not thou betrothe

This scented Mango to his Creeper-bride ?

How leave them then unwed, deserting me

Untimely ? Shall these hands weave funeral wreaths

Of that Acokd!s blossoms, which thyself

Hast coaxed, made Qoy, and fostered lovingly.

To deck thy ringlets ? ! Lady of fair limb !

The Acoka mourns thee, tearful shedding flowers,

To miss thy graceful steps, thy tinkling gait,

For ever lost. O sweet-voiced Queen of Love ! 200

That zone is yet unfinished, which with me

Thou half hast fashioned of these fragrant blooms.

Fresh-scented as thy breath : how canst thou sleep,

And leave thy task undone ?! In joy, in grief,

Thy maidens shared ; and this, thy noble Child,

Shows like a waxing Moon ; my constant love

Is for thee only ;—stern and pitiless.

Thou leavest all, unloving.l ' Joy is sped.

Endurance broken : cheerful songs have ceased ;

Spring charms no longer, gauds are laid aside

;

210

My couch henceforth is widowed, desolate. |

\

House-mistress, Friend, Beloved, Counsellor,

In all Love's arts apt pupil ! cruel Death,

Bereaving me of thee, bereaves of all

!

74 RAGHUVANCA [canto

O Liquid-eyed ! to thee my loviig lips

Gave all their sweetness ; canst thou bear to drink

The lukewarm draughts, all troubled by my tears,

Wherewith we tempt the Sires ? Now thou art gone.

No more has prosperous course my widowed life

Which owned no other joys, but all on thee 220

Was centred ! " So the King with grieving words

Mourned for his Love, while sympathetic trees

Condoling shed their gums, like floods of tears.

Then hardly from his lap his loyal men

Removed the Queen, now dead, and reverent laid

On pyre of sandalwood with aloes mixed,

Clad rich for Death. His royal heart thought scorn

That men should say, " A King by private grief

Sank overwhelmed !

"

' So, though he cared no more

To live his life,' yet—fearing men's reproach

—

230

He dared not mount the pyre that now consumed

His Spouse, but 'twas not love of life withheld.

Ten days he spent, given o'er to sorrow's sway.

Then in that grove for ever left his dear,

—

Wise King, w-hom now her virtues only charm,

Since life was fled.'' Dejected, widowed, sad

(As when Night yields to Morning pale and wan),

He entered his fair City,—and beheld

The tears that ladies shed, as 'twere the floods

Of grief that overflowed his sorrowing heart. 240

Now to his Teacher in the Hermitage,

For sacrifice prepared, the grief was known

VIII.] INDUMATI 75

Which numbed his senses : pitying he sent

Wise words of comfort (since himself was stayed)

By well-taught pupil, who spake gravely thus :

—

" Absorbed in sacrifice the perfect Saint,

Though well he knows thy grief, perforce must send,

Not come, to teach thee patience, and restore

The calm thou ownedst ere this heavy blow

P^ell on thee. Me he sends to brace thy heart, 250

O pious King, and speak thee words of peace !

O much enduring Hero, lay to heart

His words of comfort ! He whose perfect sight

Unchecked sees all that has been, all that is.

Or shall be in the fortunes of men's souls.

Bids tell thee how, when Trinabindu's toils

Of old made Indra fear, the God sent forth

To check his arduous penance Harini,

The Nymph Celestial. Then the Saint, in wrath

That like world-whelming wave flowed o'er his soul, 260

Else patient, cursed her wanton charms, displayed

Delusive,—bidding her be born 'mongst men.

Then bowed she trembling, humbly sought his grace,

And pleaded the compulsion of her Lord

On her a servant,—till the Saint forgave.

And said :—' When thou shalt see Heaven's flowers once more,

The curse I spake shall end !

' In Bhoja's house

The Nymph was born : her thou didst win for Bride,

Who long has made thee happy,—till at length

Those Heavenly flowers proclaimed the Curse's end

:

270

76 RAGHUVANCA [canto

Fate called her home, she could not choose but go !

« " Oh, mourn her then no longer ! Fate's decree

Brings grief for joy : let Earth have all thy love,

That regal Bride beloved of Kingly souls !

In prosperous times, O King, no vaunting words

E'er passed thy lips, while perfect Sacred Lore

Shone in thy patience ; now that sorrow comes.

Be man and quell it ! Though thou die with her,

Scarce shouldst thou find her more ; for souls of men

Take fateful paths that vary with their deeds.

Quit then thy grief; prepare the funeral cake,

Nor weep preparing,—since the tears of friends

Disturb departed souls. Know, earthly life

Is bondage to the Soul, which Death sets free

:

If then one breathe an instant, and depart,

His gain is highest : only fools regard

As deadly darts infixed the death of friends ;

The constant-minded know that Death draws out

Life's painful barb, and opens up for men

The gate of Bliss.\\ Thou know'st the soul must meet.

Then leave the destined body : shall the wise

Grieve when the soul casts off those coils of sense

Which bind in life ? Fall never, wisest King,

Before unreasoning grief, as fools may fall

:

Trees bend, but rocks stand firm when tempests rage !

"

" 'Tis well ! " he said assenting, bowed, and blessed

The Saint departing ; but the words of peace

Took on his sorrow-laden heart no hold,

280

290

VIII.] INDUMATI 77

So to the Sage returned. The King bereaved,

To rear his son to manhood, hardly bore 300

Eight widowed years, which only dreams relieved

When she appeared, or marble forms that mocked

Her matchless beauty. Sorrow's dart had struck

Deep-rooted in his soul, as strikes a Fig

Deep roots in palace-roofs : when sickness came

To end his life, he welcomed its stern dint.

As one that set him free to join his Love.

First perfectly he trained his warrior-son

The folk to guard, to smite the stubborn foe :

Then, pining sore to quit the frame diseased 310

That fettered him, the pious King resolved,

Renouncing earthly food and drink, to win

Bliss Endless. Wherefore to that holy place

He went where Ganga meets Sarayfi's stream.

There shed his body, and regained his Spouse,

More beauteous than on earth :—now in the groves

Of Nandana they love and live for aye

!

78 RAGHUVANCA [(!anto

CANTO IX

The Prosperous Reign of Dacaratha^ and his

Fatal Hunting.

So mighty Da^aratha to his Sire

Succeeded, self-controlled : in Kogala,

Of royal Sages first, he ruled his folk,

Who knew him noble Kartikeya's peer

In righteous glory, spreading wide his power.

Great Sages tell that Indra and this King

Poured forth their bounties duly : Bali's foe

And he who sprang of Manu's royal line,

Untiring, 'mongst whose folk no illness set

Its foot, while Earth brought forth her generous fruit lo

For him, the pride of Aja, peaceful King.

Broad Earth's ten regions Raghu had subdued,

Succeeding Aja made them fairer still,

And after him his son, that ruler sage.

Increased its lustre. Just, dispensing wealth,

Chastising ill men,—Yama, Varuna,

He rivalled, and Kuvera : as the Sun

Drives Dawn before him, so him, self-restrained

For Glory's winning, neither women's love,

IX.] THE FATAL HUNTING 79

Nor dice, nor youth's fair spring-time led astray, ao

Nor wine moon-mirroring. No abject word,

Not even to Lord Indra, would he use ;

Nor, even jesting, falsely speak ; nor foes

Would he with passion meet, nor nurse revenge.

Earth's Kings received from Aja's son the fates

That raised them or destroyed ; for he was friend

To such as did his bidding, harsh and stern

To all who dared defy. He with strong bow

Went conquering in one car sea-girdled Earth,

—

While elephants and horses, huge and swift, 30

Did but proclaim his triumph. Thus the World

Alone he, mighty archer, quite subdued.

Rich as Kuvera, while the thunderous sea

Beat drums auspicious. Indra with his bolt,

One-hundred-pointed, clipped the mountains' wings :

He, lotus-faced, poured forth from sounding bow

A rain of arrows, breaking hostile ranks.

By hundreds Kings did homage,—Maruts so

Bow down to glorious Indra,—while the pearls

That decked their diadems fresh lustre won , 40

From his bright toe-nails. Wives disconsolate

Of foemen pitied he, whose infant sons

The counsellors taught to bow : so turned he back

From Ocean's shores to where Ayodhya's towers.

As Alaka's resplendent, ruled the plain.

Yet, though o'er Earth he power supreme had won.

Nor rival raised his canopy towards heaven,

80 R A G H U V A N C A [fAXXo

He sank not back in sloth, whose glory blazed

Like fire, or moon-like beamed : for still he thought

The pinnacle of fame was not yet won. 50

Clear-minded King, he made the river-banks

With golden altar-posts to flash, where flowed

Sarayd's streams or Tamasa,—and doffed

His crown to sacrifice the Horse, and spent

All wealth late yielded by the conquered World-

Such Civa's self might seem, in deerskin clad,

With Kuca girdled, staff and horn in hand.

With voice restrained, and dight for sacrifice,

—

Incarnate, crowned with matchless lustre, pure,

By due ablutions cleansed, and fit to move 60

Among the blessed Gods. He Indra served.

But served none other. Vishnu, Highest Lord,

And him from Raghu sprung, the poor man's stay,

Did lotus-handed Lakshmi serve, for so

She kept her vow. But he, the mighty Lord,

Oft side by side with Indra led Heaven's host.

And by his archery freed from fear the hearts •

Of maids Divine, who hymned his warlike fame.

Oft too that matchless Hero, bowman skilled.

In front of Indra fighting, laid with blood 70

Of vanquished Demons dust that veiled the Sun.

The King, whose arrows pierced his foemen's breasts,

Espoused the virtuous daughters of three Kings,

—

Of Kogala, Kekaya, Magadha,

—

As rivers from the mountains wed the Sea.

IX.] THE FATAL HUNTING SI

So, threefold wedded, skilled to smite the foe,

Like Indra's self he seemed, with Virtues three

Come down to earth, to rule the world in peace I

Came in his season Spring, that gracious Lord,

In might all-worshipful, the peer alike 80

Of Gods of Earth, and Sky, and Wealth, and Sea,

To deck the world with new-born flowers. The Sun

Turned towards Kuvera's realms his steeds, and cleared

The morning-hours of frost, and left the slopes

Of well-loved Malaya. First burst the buds.

Then sprouted fresh green twigs, with hum of bees

And cuckoos' wooing note :—through tree-clad glade

In order due thus Spring revealed himself.

At Winter's ending smiled the glowing year

:

The Kincuka took on her wealth of buds, 90

Like red scars laid by fingers of a bride,

With wine deep-drunk and passion, on her spouse.

Not yet the Sun dispelled, but made less keen

The frost by women hated, swollen-lipped

From biting, while their zones slipped down from waists

That shrank with cold. From southern Malaya

Fresh buds of mango, shaken by warm winds,

Learned arts enticinsf,—in ascetic breasts

By charm of waving twigs to fix Love's power.

As suitors sought the King, whose fortunate rule loo

His virtues doubled, lavish to the good.

So to the lotus-clusters in the lakes

—

F

82 RAGHUVANgA [caxto

Fresh-blown by present Spring—swarmed bees and birds.

AgokcCs spring-like flower was lamp of Love,

And tender blossoms which their fair brides wore

As ear-drops, lit in youthful wooers' hearts

Love's gentle fires, "i^ow JhmtVs purple flowers.

In honey rich, fresh picture from Spring's hand

Of dainty beauty, stirred the bees to hum

In joyous concert. Wine from beauteous lips no

Made fertile bursting blooms, which fragrant blush

On Vakulas, where long-drawn swarms of bees

Greedy of sweetness clung. Fresh-blossoming glades

The early Cuckoo haunted with sweet notes.

Like short and broken words of loving brides.

In garden-borders tuneful creepers sang

With pleasing hum of bees, while tender flowers

Seemed gleaming teeth, and wind-shook buds were hands

To beat the dance's time. Fair women quaffed

The grateful wine, which stirred to wanton grace, 120

More fragrant than Love's ally, Vaktila,

That never fosters strife. House-tanks, made glad

By lotus-flowers and waterfowls' soft notes,

Shone bright as women's faces lit with smiles.

Whose tinkling zones hang loose. Thin grew the Night,

Close-pressed by Spring ; her face's lustre paled

As waxed the Moon ;—as pales a maiden's cheek

Whose lover fails her. Now the Moon's clear beams

In cloudless lustre heal Love's sweet fatigue,

And sharpen Kama's darts, the God who wields 130

IX.] THE FATAL HUNTING 83

The flower-strung bow, his flag a crocodile.

That bloom which glows like fire oblation-fed,

—

Fit ear-drop for the Goddess of the wood,

—

Soft-petalled, limber-tendrilled, lovers gave,

And brides twined in their locks. Shone Tila-irees,

Where clustered bees by contrast heightened charms

Of flowers, as ointment charms of fairy eyes,

Or patch on woman's cheek. New-?nalltkd,

The tree's fair spouse, slim, graceful, honey-sweet

With scented blossoms, fresh red sprouts her lips, 140

Ensnared men's hearts. Fond lovers welcomed Love

With garments red as dawn, and barley-heads

Made ear-rings, Cuckoos' song,—his whole array.

The full-blown flowers of Tila, clustering, shone

(The pollen white contrasting with black swarms

Of bees) not less than bright pearls, intertwined

With ladies' locks. Swift chased the honied tribes

That fragrant pollen, which the zephyrs light

Stirred, Love's own token, by that doughty Lord

Laid on the face of Spring, to keep her fair. 150

Now sought fair women, languishing though strong.

The swings Spring brought them, that their lovers' necks

They might unblamed clasp, scarce touching ropes

That bound their seats. "Be bold!" "Ah, cease from

strife !

"

" Life's pleasure-time comes once, nor e'er returns !

"

So Kokils sang Love's mind, and yielding maids

Their passion owned.

84 RAGHUVANCA [canto

Then he, the King, high peer

Of Vishnu, Spring, and Love, the feast enjoyed

With his fair wives to fulness. Next, he longed

To know a hunter's joys. The Chace gives skill 160

To cleave swift-moving marks, by outward signs

To ken both fear and rage : the hunter's will.

Fatigue despising, braces all his frame

:

Wherefore his Council much approved the thought.

Dressed then in hunter's garb that Sunlike King,

With quiver on broad neck, obscured the sky

With dust of horses' hoofs ; with woodland wreaths

His locks he braided, wearing mail of green,

His ear-rings trembling from the horses' speed.

So through deer-haunted glades he glanced, and Gods 170

Of woods, who veiled their forms in slender vines.

Black bees their eyes, marked well the bright-eyed King,

Whose righteous rule spread joy through Kogala,

And watched him passing. Men with dogs and nets

He sent before him, robbers fled, and fires

Were quenched ; the soil was firm with plenteous wells,

And deer and birds and bisons swarmed around.

As Indra's bow with golden bowstring armed

Nabhanga bears, so bore that King his bow

Well-strung, his passions quelled, whose angry twang 180

Enraged the Hon. Broke a herd of deer.

Led by a twelve-tined stag, where suckling fawns

Oft checked the fleeing does, while Kuca blades

Hung from their muzzles. Them the well-horsed King

IX.] THE FATAL HUNTING 85

O'ertook, and from his quiver drew a shaft

:

They burst their ranks, their troubled glances seemed

To light up all the wood, as breezes fling

From sombre lotus-leaves the balmy drops.

Like Indra skilled in bowcraft, passed the King :

—

If hind-protected stag he 'd marked for death 190

(His love-swayed soul with pity smit)—he checked

The shaft he thought to loose. At other deer

When he would shoot, his firm-clenched hand, full drawn

Up to the ear, as of itself unclasped,

—

Moved by the liquid orbs that rolled in fear.

Recalling loving looks of tender wives.

A path he followed, where the half-chewed grass

Had fallen, and broad wet footprints clearly showed

Where ran a herd of boars, escaped with speed

From muddy pools they rolled in. Bristling high, 200

They charged him boldly, while with death-fraught shafts

(His chest slight-bending from his horse) he shot

So dexterously they knew not they were pinned

To trees 'gainst which they leaned. One shaft he sped,

Which in a charging bison's eyeball lodged,

Slew the fell beast, and, dashing through the flesh,

Dropt to the ground, its feathers clean of blood.

The fearless King, whose hand long use had trained.

Rained deadly arrows down the yawning throats,

As from their caves to tear him tigers sprang, 210

Like blooming Asan-sprouts by tempest broke.

To slay the lions crouching in their dens,

86 RAGHUVANCA [canto

He roused them first with thunderous bowstring's twang,

Harsh-sounding,—for he grudged the Royal name.

Which—prize of valour—'mong the beasts they bore :

Them, known the fiercest foes of elephants.

Whose forehead-pearls they tear with crooked claw,

Kakutstha's son shot down, and paid the debt

He owed his mighty servants, staunch in war.

The yaks he next pursued with arrows keen, 220

Drawn to his ear ; seized their white tails as prize,

—

That royal badge which oft from Kings he tore

;

Then let them lie. At peacock splendid-tailed,

Though next his horse it rose, he aimed no shaft,

—

So like it seemed to braided hair, his Queen's,

With bright flowers intertwined, when loving sport

Had loosed its tangles. Heavy drops of sweat.

Which bathed his brows,—fit streams from huntsman's toil,

The dewdrop-laden breeze absorbed, which wooed

The new-born buds to burst. With skilful wiles 230

Coquetting thus, the Chace enthralled the King,

By service made more loving, wiping out

All thought of graver duties, since he cast

The weight of Kingship on his Council sage.

The night he passed on couch of flowers and twigs,

At times unguarded ; phosphorescent plants

Alone gave light ; at dawn he woke refreshed,

When sounded in his ear like deep-toned drums

His elephants loud-trumpeting, and joyed

To hear the birds' sweet warbling, tuneful bards 240

IX.] THE FATAL HUNTING 87

To sing his praises ; thus his days sped past.

But—so Fate willed it—one unlucky day,

Unmarked by all his train he tracked a stag

Through forest-paths, and reached the Tamasa

(His horse all foaming, spent, foredone with heat),

—

Whose banks grave Hermits haunt. There on his ear

From waterpot one filled fell gurgling sounds,

As of an elephant that quenched his thirst

;

The King his arrow loosed, which hurtling sped

;

That act the Law forbids to virtuous Kings, 250

Yet he transgressed :—when passion blinds, a Sage,

Though versed in Sacred Lore, will tread ill paths.

" Oh, Father ! " rang a cry : grief-struck, the King

Pressed on to find its source among the reeds,

And found a Muni's son, with jar in hand,

Pierced by an arrow ; like a dart deep pain

Transfixed the King's own heart. Dismounting then.

The high-descended Hero asked his race,

—

When, propped against his jar, with faltering tongue

He named his sire—no Brahman, though a Sage. 260

Then, as desired, he bore the wounded boy

(The barb not drawn) to where his parents blind

Were waiting, and rehearsed the dreadful hap

Which he unwitting brought upon their son.

Sore grieving did those parents from his breast

Draw out the shaft which murderous hand had sped

;

The lad expired : next, washing his old hands

In floods of tears, the father cursed the King,

88 RAGHUVANCA [canto

And said :—" When age comes on thee, for thy son

Thou too shalt die of grief, as now I die !

"

270

Thus, as a snake provoked its venom pours,

He vented fatal words ; the offending King

Meek answered :—" Saintly Sage ! not all in wrath

Thy curse has smit me, whom no lovely son

With lotus-face has charmed : so fire consumes

Corn-bearing land, yet from the sterile ash

Makes seed the more productive."—So they spake.

Next said he to the Saint :—" I well deserve

For ill-deed done that thou shouldst take my life :

How may I serve thy need ? "—The Saint required 280

Pure fire and kindling-wood ; for with his wife

Their son he fain would follow to the pyre.

Then came the escort, and in haste the King

Did as they bade him ; then betook him home,

His courage damped by sin. The curse he bore.

Deep-graven on his heart, fell root of woe.

As Ocean in its womb bears quenchless fire.

X.] RAMANS HIRTII 89

CANTO X

Vis/uiu, invoked by the Gods, becomes incarnate as Rama,

to destroy the Tyrant RCivana.

Long ruled the King, in fadeless splendour robed,

Like Indra mighty—till ten thousand years

Were well-nigh sped. Yet gained he not the wealth,

" Son " named, to pay the debt he owed the Sires,

That light which swiftly chases sorrow's gloom.

Long stayed the King, and yearned for grace divine

To give him issue,—Ocean thus of old.

As yet unchurned, delayed to yield its pearls.

Then pious Priests, ascetic, self-controlled,

By Rishya^ringa led, began the Rite lo

To win the King a son to heal his care.

At that same time, by Fate's supreme decree,

The Gods, by Ravan vexed, to Vishnu went

As heat-worn wayfarers to shade resort.

Soon as they reached wide Ocean, the Supreme

Woke from his sleep, foreboding good success

By timeous welcome. Him the Gods beheld,

On Cesha seated, where around his limbs

90 RAGHUVANCA [canto

The flashing gems set in its sparkling hood

Shed radiance, while bright Lakshmi, lotus-throned, 20

Held in her lap His feet, and wrapped her zone

In silk, and spread her hands like clinging vines.

There clear as full-blown lotus beamed his eyes.

Like new-born Sun his robes—calm autumn day

He seemed, as gracious on their sight He rose.

The jewel Kaustubha on his broad chest

He wore, that pearl of Ocean, in whose rays

Shines out the wonder of His breast, the glass

Where Lakshmi's beauties play. His branching arms,

With gems of Heaven bedecked, amid the waves 30

Like Parijata seemed ; while living darts.

That paled the cheeks of Daityas' wives, upraised

Their song triumphant. There the King of Birds,

With talons sheathed, relaxing warlike rage

Against the Snake, scarred by the lightning-stroke,

Attended watchful. Thus with shining eyes,

Mild-beaming as He woke from fateful sleep,

The Saints by Bhrigu led He greeted well

—

Who first had greeted Him with lowly words.

Then falling prostrate, Him the Gods extolled, 40

Who smote the Demon-host, who speech and thought

Transcends alike. Praise-worthy :—" Hail ! " they cried,

"Threefold yet One, who first didst all things frame,

Upholdest now, and wilt at last destroy !

As rain from Heaven is one, yet forms diverse

In various lands assumes, so Thou, unchanged

X.] RAMA\S BIRTH 91

In essence, workest various ; Thou all worlds,

Thyself unmeasured, metest ; feeling none.

Thou fillest all desires ; Unconquered, all

Thou conquerest ; veiled Thyself, Thou dost display 50

The World of seeming. Thee men know far off,

Yet dwelling in their hearts ; from passion free,

Primal Ascetic ; quick to sympathise,

Though Thee no pain can touch ; by Age's hand

Untouched art Thou, yet Ancient ; all unknown,

All-Knowing ; Womb of all things, sprung from none ;

Supreme, Thou know'st no ruler ; One, yet manifold !

"Thee all adore : praised in the Seven Hymns,

On Oceans seven Thou sleep'st—Whose lips breathe out

The seven Fires, sole Refuge of seven Worlds. 60

Four-branched is knowledge. Ages four bound Time,

Four orders hath mankind, from Thy four mouths

Proceed all worlds. Oh, heart's resplendent goal

!

For Thee ascetics yearn, their lusts subdued

By painful exercise, and seek from Thee

The Good Supreme. Unborn, yet taking flesh ;

Not seeking triumph. Thou dost smite Thy foes

;

Thou sleep'st, yet watchest ever :—who can tell

Thy being's truth ? The binding chains of sense.

Of hearing and all else, at will Thou tak'st

;

70

Endurest harshest toil,—dost shield Thy worlds,

—

Yet dwellest high apart. The ways of Bliss,

Diversely shown and taught, all lead to Thee,

As Ganga's parted streams seek Ocean's breast.

92 RAGHUVANCA [canto

" Who fix their hearts on Thee, and trust to Thee

All working, free from lust,—these find in Thee

That happy way which none need travel more.

Thy greatness none can grasp, though in the worlds

Thou clothe Thyself in matter : who shall tell

Thy worship forth, which Holy Writ alone 80

And thought profound can reach ? The soul of man

Thou purgest wholly, if his thought on Thee

Be purely fixed : how fruitful then must be

Soul-union with Thee ! Yet as Ocean far

Outshines the gems he hides, as o'er his rays

The Sun shines glorious, so Thy greatness. Lord,

Transcends our halting praise ! Nor want hast Thou,

Nor aught allures Thee ; Birth Thou tak'st and Toil,

That through the Worlds Salvation may be wrought

!

Here cease we from Thy praise, exhausted, weak

:

90

Thou art exhaustless, boundless spreads Thy might !

"

So hymned the Gods that Soul unthinkable.

And strove to paint His essence, not exalt.

The Almighty Lord propitious greeted well

The radiant Gods, who told their anxious fear

Lest Earth should sink o'erfiowed by Rakshas-wave.

To them the Blessed spake, with thunderous voice

That stilled the Ocean-roar, re-echoing

Through sea-girt caverns :—so the Ageless Lord

In hallowed tones replied, the while His words 100

All-holy half-conferred the promised boon.

X.] RAMA'S BIRTH 93

As Ganga, heavenly stream, springs from His foot,

And gleams with foam, so gleamed the mighty word

Lit by His shining teeth—as thus He spake :

—

" Well know I how the Rakshas has smit down

Your glorious might, as Ignorance in man

Annihilates both Truth and Passion's force.

And as a good man's heart unwitting sin

Disturbs and tortures, so with Demon-might

He tortures the Three Worlds. Great Indra's prayers no

I needed not tD rouse my will to help,

For our desire is one, as Wind and Fire

Are eager allies. Yea, in ages past.

When nine were smitten with his own great sword.

The Giant's tenth head stood, a destined prey

For my resistless Quoit. Long since his fate

Had overta'en him, but for Brahma's boon :

His insolence I suffered, as a tree

Long bears insulting serpents. For of yore.

Pleased with his rites austere, from Brahma's hand 120

The Demon won this boon, to dread no foe

Of Heavenly race—he feared not arm of man,

" Incarnate then as Dacaratha's son.

With biting arrow I his clustering heads

Will cleave like lotus-clusters, sacrificed

Upon the foughten field. Thereafter soon

The holy offerings which pure priests present.

By skulking ghosts untainted, once again

Ye shall enjoy ! And you, ye Saints, who now,

94 RAGHUVANgA [canto

In cars celestial riding through the sky, 130

Seek refuge in dark clouds, dismayed no more

At sight of Pushpaka, resume your calm !

The captive brides of Heaven, by Ravan's rapes

No more disturbed, their locks shall now unbind."

Then melted Vishnu's cloud, whence blessed words

Like rain of nectar on the parched fields

Of hopes of Gods, by Ravan scorched, had fallen.

But Indra and his peers in subtle shapes

Went after the great God, whose mighty will

Was bent to aid them, ev'n as blossoming trees 140

Waft pollen on the path of favouring gales.

Now when the Rites were ended, which the King

Performed to win him offspring, sudden came

From out the altar-fire a Form Divine,

And awed the Priests. High in His hands he bore

A golden dish of mingled rice and milk.

And scarce could bear, for there the Almighty lay.

That draught God-given drank the King, as erst

Did Indra drink the essential Nectar, churned

From Ocean's heart. How excellent that King, 150

In virtue eminent, without a peer.

From whom the Soul Supreme now sought His birth !

The sacred draught, where Vishnu's self lay hid.

To his two Queens he parted, as the Sun

His morning-beams divides 'twixt Sky and Earth.

Kaugalya high he prized, Kaikeyi loved,

X.] RAMANS BIRTH 95

And fain would have Sumitra loved by both,

As well they knew : so, gracing their wise Lord,

Each with Sumitra shared the holy milk,

Nor grudged to share ; for she alike to both i6o

Showed equal love, as seeks a honey-bee

Both fragrant streams that from the mighty brows

Of elephants exude. All three conceived :

And in their wombs divided grew the God,

As grows a lotus quickened by Sun-rays.

Their time w^ent on : with paly gold they beamed,

As gleams the corn blade while the golden grain

Swells in the ear. By night in happy dreams

They saw themselves girt round by sworded dwarfs.

With conch, and club, and bow, and quoit ; they rode 170

(It seemed) on Garuda, who spread in air

The gauzy glory of his golden wings.

And in swift flight drew in his wake the clouds.

And Lakshmi served them, wearing on her breast

Kaustubha lent by Vishnu, waving soft

Her lotus-fan ; while all the Saints supreme.

The holy Seven, fresh bathed in Ganga's flood.

In solemn chant extolled the Holiest Name.

These dreams they told their Lord, who joyed to hear,

And, proud of promised off'spring, thought his lot 180

Transcended even great Prajapati's

;

For in their wombs the Soul Supreme now dwelt.

One Essence, self-divided, manifold,

Like moonbeams shimmering on a quiet lake.

THE

RAGHUVAMSA

by Kavikula Guru

Sri Kalidasa -5

translated by

P. DE LACY JOHNSTONE

Om Tat Sat

(Continued ..)

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

 for the collection)