Sunday, February 15, 2009
Acknowledgements
I thank my wife, Smt. Subhadra for her support. I thank my son, Chi. Srinivas and daughter-in-law, Chi. Sow. Jayalakshmi for carefully proof reading the work and helping with hosting and posting on the Internet. Special thanks to Dr. P. Sreeramachandrudu garu for the foreword.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Foreword
The Ramanaya and Mahabharata are the two great Epics of India, unparalleled by any work of similar nature in other literatures of the world. They represent respectively, the great qualities of heart and head, the balanced development of which leads to the perfection of a human being.
While every passage and part of the Ramanaya has the capacity to raise the reader’s mind to the rupturous heights of the transcendental ecstacy (Rasanubhava) the Sundara Kanda has a special power of leading the readers into the realms of the highest ideals of selfless service, undaunted spirit prepared to meet any situation and unflinching loyalty to the master.
Sri Rama is undoubtedly the hero of the Mahakavya Ramayana; but the great poet sage Valmiki appears to be intent upon making Hanuman as the hero of the Sundara Kanda. The readers are made to keep constant company with this great personality of extraordinary strength, marvellous intellectual power and practical wisdom. Any person who comes face to face with Hanuman through reading Sundara Kanda several times develops within himself many qualities like fearlessness, mental and physical strength and unbound wisdom as being experienced by lakhs of people even today. This is what is intended to convey by the well-known verse:
"Buddih balam yaso dhairyam
Nirbhayatvam arogata
Ajadyam vakpatutvam ca
Hanumatsmaranad bhavet."
"By remembering Hanuman constantly with faith and reverence, one can get intellect, strength, fame, courage, fearlessness, health, alertness and skill in speech."
It is with the good intention of making Sundara Kanda accessible to many readers who are not familiar with Sanskrit, that Sri Gorty Subrahmanyam has rendered this Kanda into simple English, closely following the original. Anyone who reads the work can get, I am sure, the pleasure of reading the original and all the benefits listed in the verse quoted above by the grace of Hanuman and through him of the Lord Rama and Sita.
As a person, who acquired, after retirement, the Master’s Degree with Sanskrit by putting strenuous efforts, Sri Subrahmanyam must have thought; as the saying !Ekah swaadu na bhunjiita! goes that he should share the joy of reading a great literary work with many like-minded persons throughout the world and produced this fine work in English. I am sure his desire will definitely be fulfilled.
Sd. Dr. P. Sreeramachandrudu.
Hyderabad,
Dt. 5/6/2008.
While every passage and part of the Ramanaya has the capacity to raise the reader’s mind to the rupturous heights of the transcendental ecstacy (Rasanubhava) the Sundara Kanda has a special power of leading the readers into the realms of the highest ideals of selfless service, undaunted spirit prepared to meet any situation and unflinching loyalty to the master.
Sri Rama is undoubtedly the hero of the Mahakavya Ramayana; but the great poet sage Valmiki appears to be intent upon making Hanuman as the hero of the Sundara Kanda. The readers are made to keep constant company with this great personality of extraordinary strength, marvellous intellectual power and practical wisdom. Any person who comes face to face with Hanuman through reading Sundara Kanda several times develops within himself many qualities like fearlessness, mental and physical strength and unbound wisdom as being experienced by lakhs of people even today. This is what is intended to convey by the well-known verse:
"Buddih balam yaso dhairyam
Nirbhayatvam arogata
Ajadyam vakpatutvam ca
Hanumatsmaranad bhavet."
"By remembering Hanuman constantly with faith and reverence, one can get intellect, strength, fame, courage, fearlessness, health, alertness and skill in speech."
It is with the good intention of making Sundara Kanda accessible to many readers who are not familiar with Sanskrit, that Sri Gorty Subrahmanyam has rendered this Kanda into simple English, closely following the original. Anyone who reads the work can get, I am sure, the pleasure of reading the original and all the benefits listed in the verse quoted above by the grace of Hanuman and through him of the Lord Rama and Sita.
As a person, who acquired, after retirement, the Master’s Degree with Sanskrit by putting strenuous efforts, Sri Subrahmanyam must have thought; as the saying !Ekah swaadu na bhunjiita! goes that he should share the joy of reading a great literary work with many like-minded persons throughout the world and produced this fine work in English. I am sure his desire will definitely be fulfilled.
Sd. Dr. P. Sreeramachandrudu.
Hyderabad,
Dt. 5/6/2008.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Episode 31 - Anjaneya's detailed report of his mission to Rama, the handing over of Sita's signet jewel to him
Rama further enquired of the Vanaras about Sita and her devotion to him. Prompted by his mates, Anjaneya responded to Rama, after turning in the direction in which Sita was located and bowing to her: “O Rama! I crossed the 100-yojana ocean in search of Sita and reached Lanka, the city of the evil-minded Ravana. There I found the Pativrata, Sita. Her mind is fully occupied by you. She is held captive in a garden and is guarded by ugly-looking Rakshasis and is being terrorised by them all the time. She is pale and sunken and sleeps on the floor, pining for you. She is completely averse to Ravana and is determined to die.”
“After somehow finding her, I began to introduce myself by describing your lineage and slowly created confidence in her about my identity and purpose. The friendship between you and Sugriva was also explained as well as your determination to redeem her. She was happy to hear this. Besides, to remind you of her great association with you, she referred to the offending crow's story on the Chitrakuta Mountain and how you employed the Brahmastra against it. She wondered why you, who used such a great Astra against a small bird, would not use any Astra against Ravana and why Lakshmana was not killing the Rakshasas with your permission.”
She also gave me the Chudamani (crest-jewel) as a signet to be handed over to you with the message: “O Rama! This well-protected jewel is a product of the sea. Seeing this, I feel happy as if I see you, when I am in trouble. Also recall that when the Tilaka (dot) on my fore-head got erased, you provided a substitute out of Manassila (a soft stone so called). Having been enslaved by the Rakshasas, I cannot live beyond a month.”
Concluding, Anjaneya said: “O Rama! I have told you everything as it is. Now a bridge has to be built across the ocean.” Finding that Rama was consoled, Anjaneya then handed over Sita's signet jewel to him.
Rama put Sita's jewel to his heart and began to cry along with Lakshmana. With his eyes filled with tears, he explained the background of the jewel to Sugriva: “This extraordinary jewel was gifted to Sita by her father at the time of our marriage. It had been presented by Lord Indra to Janaka as a reward in consequence of a sacrifice performed by him to please the gods. This jewel brings back to my mind memories of my revered father as well as my father-in-law. It glitters particularly beautifully on my darling's head and I feel as though I have regained her.”
“O Anjaneya! What more has Sita said to console me? Her words are to me like water to a thirsty man. O Lakshmana! What greater sorrow can there be than seeing this jewel without Sita? If she lives without me for a month, she lives long. I cannot live even for a moment without her. Anjaneya! Tell me more of the sweet words spoken by my sweet lady, my darling, pining for me. As a seriously sick person lives by medicine, I shall live by her words.”
Anjaneya responded by referring to all the events once again to comfort Rama and assured him that Sita was always thinking of him alone and hoping to obtain freedom from captivity through war. He added that he told her, 'Devi, I swear that Rama, along with Lakshmana, is overwhelmed with grief. They do not know that you are here. As soon as they get the message from me, they will invade Lanka, destroy Ravana and the other Rakshasas and take you back to Ayodhya in triumph.' Anjaneya went on to say: “O Rama! Upon my request thereupon, she handed over to me the signet crest-jewel and expressed her good wishes for your health as well as Lakshmana's and Sugriva's.”
“When I was about to return, Sita pleaded: “O Hanuman! Please stay around here in some secret place for a day, take rest and then go. Your presence here, even for a moment, will mitigate my suffering which has reached its peak. After your exit, my agony will mount further, making my survival doubtful.”
“O Valiant one! I do not know how the army of monkeys and bears or Rama or Lakshmana will cross the ocean. As far as I know, only you, Garutman and the Wind God are capable of crossing the ocean. Please answer this question. I know you are competent to accomplish the whole mission single-handed. However, it behoves Rama to enter Lanka with an army, kill Ravana in war, free me from captivity and take me back to his kingdom. Ravana kidnapped me stealthily and it will not be appropriate for Rama to free me in like manner, without facing Ravana, out of fear. Being a tormentor of the enemies, Rama's reputation calls for creation of total turmoil and destruction in the city of Lanka. Therefore, conceive a plan that conforms to Rama's valour and heroism in war.”
“O Rama! Hearing the significant, rational and modest message of Sita, I responded to her, 'Devi! The powerful Sugriva, King of Monkeys and Bears, is determined to secure your freedom. His soldiers are as fast as the mind and can access any place anywhere on the surface of the earth, in the sky or underground. Full of strength and pride, they have flown round the entire earth several times. All of them are either equal or superior to me. As per the custom, an ordinary soldier like me—not the superiors—has been sent here on this mission. By one jump, the valiant monkeys can land in Lanka. Devi! Put an end to your sorrow. I will carry the great Rama and Lakshmana into your presence on my back. Rama, the destroyer of the enemy, will annihilate Ravana and his army of Rakshasas and return triumphant, along with you, to occupy his throne in Ayodhya.”
“O Rama! Sita is worried by the news of your sorrow. Nevertheless, hearing my auspicious words of courage and comfort, pointing to a happy end to her ordeal, she has found consolation and peace.”
It is noteworthy that Anjaneya is the greatest among the Vanaras. Even Ravana has acknowledged this truth. Yet Anjaneya shows great humility and in order to instill confidence in Sita, describes his mates to be equal to or even superior to him.
The end of Sundara Kanda in Valmiki's Sreemadramayanam.
(Abridged English version by G.V.S. Subrahmanyam, M.A)
“After somehow finding her, I began to introduce myself by describing your lineage and slowly created confidence in her about my identity and purpose. The friendship between you and Sugriva was also explained as well as your determination to redeem her. She was happy to hear this. Besides, to remind you of her great association with you, she referred to the offending crow's story on the Chitrakuta Mountain and how you employed the Brahmastra against it. She wondered why you, who used such a great Astra against a small bird, would not use any Astra against Ravana and why Lakshmana was not killing the Rakshasas with your permission.”
She also gave me the Chudamani (crest-jewel) as a signet to be handed over to you with the message: “O Rama! This well-protected jewel is a product of the sea. Seeing this, I feel happy as if I see you, when I am in trouble. Also recall that when the Tilaka (dot) on my fore-head got erased, you provided a substitute out of Manassila (a soft stone so called). Having been enslaved by the Rakshasas, I cannot live beyond a month.”
Concluding, Anjaneya said: “O Rama! I have told you everything as it is. Now a bridge has to be built across the ocean.” Finding that Rama was consoled, Anjaneya then handed over Sita's signet jewel to him.
Rama put Sita's jewel to his heart and began to cry along with Lakshmana. With his eyes filled with tears, he explained the background of the jewel to Sugriva: “This extraordinary jewel was gifted to Sita by her father at the time of our marriage. It had been presented by Lord Indra to Janaka as a reward in consequence of a sacrifice performed by him to please the gods. This jewel brings back to my mind memories of my revered father as well as my father-in-law. It glitters particularly beautifully on my darling's head and I feel as though I have regained her.”
“O Anjaneya! What more has Sita said to console me? Her words are to me like water to a thirsty man. O Lakshmana! What greater sorrow can there be than seeing this jewel without Sita? If she lives without me for a month, she lives long. I cannot live even for a moment without her. Anjaneya! Tell me more of the sweet words spoken by my sweet lady, my darling, pining for me. As a seriously sick person lives by medicine, I shall live by her words.”
Anjaneya responded by referring to all the events once again to comfort Rama and assured him that Sita was always thinking of him alone and hoping to obtain freedom from captivity through war. He added that he told her, 'Devi, I swear that Rama, along with Lakshmana, is overwhelmed with grief. They do not know that you are here. As soon as they get the message from me, they will invade Lanka, destroy Ravana and the other Rakshasas and take you back to Ayodhya in triumph.' Anjaneya went on to say: “O Rama! Upon my request thereupon, she handed over to me the signet crest-jewel and expressed her good wishes for your health as well as Lakshmana's and Sugriva's.”
“When I was about to return, Sita pleaded: “O Hanuman! Please stay around here in some secret place for a day, take rest and then go. Your presence here, even for a moment, will mitigate my suffering which has reached its peak. After your exit, my agony will mount further, making my survival doubtful.”
“O Valiant one! I do not know how the army of monkeys and bears or Rama or Lakshmana will cross the ocean. As far as I know, only you, Garutman and the Wind God are capable of crossing the ocean. Please answer this question. I know you are competent to accomplish the whole mission single-handed. However, it behoves Rama to enter Lanka with an army, kill Ravana in war, free me from captivity and take me back to his kingdom. Ravana kidnapped me stealthily and it will not be appropriate for Rama to free me in like manner, without facing Ravana, out of fear. Being a tormentor of the enemies, Rama's reputation calls for creation of total turmoil and destruction in the city of Lanka. Therefore, conceive a plan that conforms to Rama's valour and heroism in war.”
“O Rama! Hearing the significant, rational and modest message of Sita, I responded to her, 'Devi! The powerful Sugriva, King of Monkeys and Bears, is determined to secure your freedom. His soldiers are as fast as the mind and can access any place anywhere on the surface of the earth, in the sky or underground. Full of strength and pride, they have flown round the entire earth several times. All of them are either equal or superior to me. As per the custom, an ordinary soldier like me—not the superiors—has been sent here on this mission. By one jump, the valiant monkeys can land in Lanka. Devi! Put an end to your sorrow. I will carry the great Rama and Lakshmana into your presence on my back. Rama, the destroyer of the enemy, will annihilate Ravana and his army of Rakshasas and return triumphant, along with you, to occupy his throne in Ayodhya.”
“O Rama! Sita is worried by the news of your sorrow. Nevertheless, hearing my auspicious words of courage and comfort, pointing to a happy end to her ordeal, she has found consolation and peace.”
It is noteworthy that Anjaneya is the greatest among the Vanaras. Even Ravana has acknowledged this truth. Yet Anjaneya shows great humility and in order to instill confidence in Sita, describes his mates to be equal to or even superior to him.
The end of Sundara Kanda in Valmiki's Sreemadramayanam.
(Abridged English version by G.V.S. Subrahmanyam, M.A)
Episode 30 - Dadhimukha's report to Sugriva and the King's prediction
Soon Dadhimukha landed at the place where Rama, Lakshmana and Sugriva were assembled and fell on Sugriva's feet with folded palms and a pale face. Sugriva assured him that he need not fear and wanted to know what had happened.
Dadhimukha reported: “O King! The Madhuvana has never been meant to be a property for the enjoyment of everyone. Yet the Vanaras have damaged the garden and consumed whatever there is in it. Though the guards have endeavoured to check them, they are outnumbered by the Vanaras. Intoxicated by wine, they have beaten up the security guards including myself, black and blue.”
Lakshmana, who was watching the proceedings, wanted to know what it was all about. Sugriva answered: “Dadhimukha reports that the Vanaras, who went southward in search of Sita, have returned and resorted to revelry in the Madhu Garden and destroyed it. By their conduct, it is clear that they have triumphed in their mission and that Sita has been discovered—by none other than Anjaneya. He combines in himself knowledge of the Sastras, capacity for wise planning, valour and enterprise and finds success. There is none else who could have achieved the task. Where Jambavan and Angada are leaders and Anjaneya presides, there success alone can be the outcome.”
Hearing the extremely pleasant news of Sita's discovery from Sugriva, Rama and Lakshmana felt immeasurable joy. Soon Sugriva addressed Dadhimukha: “I am glad that the Vanaras who have accomplished their mission are enjoying themselves in the garden. Though their conduct is not ordinarily acceptable, I pardon them in the special circumstances. Let those lions led by Hanuman come into my presence at once. We are anxious to hear the good news about Sita from them.”
Dadhimukha received the instruction of Sugriva happily and hurried back to the garden. Saluting the Prince Angada, he said: “O gentle Prince! Be not offended by the obstruction caused by the security guards. You are the Prince and the master of this garden. Excuse our foolish act. I have announced your arrival to your uncle, Sugriva. He is glad and not upset that the garden has been damaged. The king has asked me to send you all to him immediately.”
Angada, hearing Dadhimukha's message, addressed his mates: “O Vanaras and heroes! I think that Rama has heard the pleasant news. Having completed our mission, it is not proper for us to while away the time here. We have to go to Sugriva, my Master. You have consumed wine and had rest. Now you decide what I shall do. I am at your service. Though I am the Prince, I do not wish to command you after what you have achieved.”
The forest-dwellers were highly pleased with the Prince's modesty and said: “O King! Being a Master, who speaks like you? Intoxicated by wealth everyone thinks: 'I am everything.' This kind of communication to the servants behoves none other than you. Your humility points to your fitness for an exalted future. We are also ready to proceed to our venerable and enduring King, Sugriva. Truly, we cannot move one step without your permission.”
“Well, let us go”, said Angada and then all of them flew into the sky like thundering clouds. Sugriva once again consoled Rama who was still grief-stricken. “O Rama! Be relieved. These Vanaras cannot come late here, after the time limit set by me, without finding Sita. Certainly, Sita has been seen by Anjaneya. In him, as in the sun, reside wisdom, ceaseless endeavour, heroism and success. Where leaders Jambavan, Angada and Anjaneya are present and act together, there follows success. O Rama, the inexhaustible source of valour! Do not be overtaken by grief.”
Even as Sugriva was consoling Rama, triumphant shouts were heard from the sky. Soon the army of monkeys landed in the presence of Rama and Sugriva. Anjaneya bowed to Rama and announced his meeting with Sita and news of her welfare, condition and devotion to Rama. The words 'Sita has been seen by me ' (In Sanskrit, Drushta Sita maya) were like nectar to the ears of Rama and Lakshmana. Lakshmana looked at Sugriva with great respect in acknowledgement of his true prediction and accomplishment. Rama, conqueror of enemies, looked at Anjaneya with great admiration.
Note: Sugriva's announcement to Rama that Anjaneya must have succeeded in finding Sita even before the Vanaras convey the news to him, shows the king's true judgment of the ability of his followers, especially of Anjaneya.
Dadhimukha reported: “O King! The Madhuvana has never been meant to be a property for the enjoyment of everyone. Yet the Vanaras have damaged the garden and consumed whatever there is in it. Though the guards have endeavoured to check them, they are outnumbered by the Vanaras. Intoxicated by wine, they have beaten up the security guards including myself, black and blue.”
Lakshmana, who was watching the proceedings, wanted to know what it was all about. Sugriva answered: “Dadhimukha reports that the Vanaras, who went southward in search of Sita, have returned and resorted to revelry in the Madhu Garden and destroyed it. By their conduct, it is clear that they have triumphed in their mission and that Sita has been discovered—by none other than Anjaneya. He combines in himself knowledge of the Sastras, capacity for wise planning, valour and enterprise and finds success. There is none else who could have achieved the task. Where Jambavan and Angada are leaders and Anjaneya presides, there success alone can be the outcome.”
Hearing the extremely pleasant news of Sita's discovery from Sugriva, Rama and Lakshmana felt immeasurable joy. Soon Sugriva addressed Dadhimukha: “I am glad that the Vanaras who have accomplished their mission are enjoying themselves in the garden. Though their conduct is not ordinarily acceptable, I pardon them in the special circumstances. Let those lions led by Hanuman come into my presence at once. We are anxious to hear the good news about Sita from them.”
Dadhimukha received the instruction of Sugriva happily and hurried back to the garden. Saluting the Prince Angada, he said: “O gentle Prince! Be not offended by the obstruction caused by the security guards. You are the Prince and the master of this garden. Excuse our foolish act. I have announced your arrival to your uncle, Sugriva. He is glad and not upset that the garden has been damaged. The king has asked me to send you all to him immediately.”
Angada, hearing Dadhimukha's message, addressed his mates: “O Vanaras and heroes! I think that Rama has heard the pleasant news. Having completed our mission, it is not proper for us to while away the time here. We have to go to Sugriva, my Master. You have consumed wine and had rest. Now you decide what I shall do. I am at your service. Though I am the Prince, I do not wish to command you after what you have achieved.”
The forest-dwellers were highly pleased with the Prince's modesty and said: “O King! Being a Master, who speaks like you? Intoxicated by wealth everyone thinks: 'I am everything.' This kind of communication to the servants behoves none other than you. Your humility points to your fitness for an exalted future. We are also ready to proceed to our venerable and enduring King, Sugriva. Truly, we cannot move one step without your permission.”
“Well, let us go”, said Angada and then all of them flew into the sky like thundering clouds. Sugriva once again consoled Rama who was still grief-stricken. “O Rama! Be relieved. These Vanaras cannot come late here, after the time limit set by me, without finding Sita. Certainly, Sita has been seen by Anjaneya. In him, as in the sun, reside wisdom, ceaseless endeavour, heroism and success. Where leaders Jambavan, Angada and Anjaneya are present and act together, there follows success. O Rama, the inexhaustible source of valour! Do not be overtaken by grief.”
Even as Sugriva was consoling Rama, triumphant shouts were heard from the sky. Soon the army of monkeys landed in the presence of Rama and Sugriva. Anjaneya bowed to Rama and announced his meeting with Sita and news of her welfare, condition and devotion to Rama. The words 'Sita has been seen by me ' (In Sanskrit, Drushta Sita maya) were like nectar to the ears of Rama and Lakshmana. Lakshmana looked at Sugriva with great respect in acknowledgement of his true prediction and accomplishment. Rama, conqueror of enemies, looked at Anjaneya with great admiration.
Note: Sugriva's announcement to Rama that Anjaneya must have succeeded in finding Sita even before the Vanaras convey the news to him, shows the king's true judgment of the ability of his followers, especially of Anjaneya.
Episode 29 - Vanaras' flight back to Kishkindha; destruction of the Madhu Garden
The Vanaras led by Angada and Anjaneya accepted the wise Jambavan's word. They left the Mahendra Mountain for Kishkindha, Sugriva's kingdom. They were all enthusiastic and determined to accomplish the remaining task of taking revenge against the Rakshasa King and freeing Sita. Soon they landed in the beautiful Madhu Garden belonging to the Vanara King and guarded by his uncle called Dadhimukha.
The Vanaras, entering the garden, were eager to drink the wine available there and took the permission of Angada, the Prince, and the other elders. They were in a festive mood, walking and talking, singing and dancing and playing together, climbing trees and hills and jumping up and down. All the time, they were drinking wine to their hearts' fill. They were gradually losing control of their minds and doing all kinds of things out of intoxication.
Dadhimukha, the Chief Security Guard, soon realised that the monkeys were destroying the garden, stripping the trees of their fruits, flowers and leaves and completely exceeding their limits. Even as he tried to check them, the monkeys began to threaten him. Dadhimukha pleaded with some of the monkeys to restrain themselves, warned some others and imposed physical punishment on a few others. However, the intoxicated monkeys were not to be subdued. They beat up Dadhimukha and were eating up everything available in the garden besides disfiguring it.
Hanuman soon assured the Vanaras: “O Vanaras! Drink wine without any hesitation. If anyone obstructs you, I will take care of him.” The Prince Angada added: “I have to do even a prohibited act when a triumphant Anjaneya wants it; not to speak of ordinary things like this.” The Vanaras were pleased and admired Angada for his indulgence. They continued to eat and drink and assaulted the security guard who attempted to obstruct them. Finally, most of the security guards who were outnumbered, were completely humiliated by the invading monkeys and took to their heels. The Prince Angada himself engaged Dadhimukha in a fight and broke his limbs.
Dadhimukha realised that the situation had gone out of hand and decided to complain to the King Sugriva, holding the Prince solely responsible for the misbehaviour of the group. Accordingly, he withdrew the security guards and accompanied by them, repaired to the King.
Note: Angada, the Vanara Prince, is as much the owner of the garden as the King and yet he allows the garden to be used up and even mutilated by his triumphant followers as a reward for their toil and success in a noble mission.
The Vanaras, entering the garden, were eager to drink the wine available there and took the permission of Angada, the Prince, and the other elders. They were in a festive mood, walking and talking, singing and dancing and playing together, climbing trees and hills and jumping up and down. All the time, they were drinking wine to their hearts' fill. They were gradually losing control of their minds and doing all kinds of things out of intoxication.
Dadhimukha, the Chief Security Guard, soon realised that the monkeys were destroying the garden, stripping the trees of their fruits, flowers and leaves and completely exceeding their limits. Even as he tried to check them, the monkeys began to threaten him. Dadhimukha pleaded with some of the monkeys to restrain themselves, warned some others and imposed physical punishment on a few others. However, the intoxicated monkeys were not to be subdued. They beat up Dadhimukha and were eating up everything available in the garden besides disfiguring it.
Hanuman soon assured the Vanaras: “O Vanaras! Drink wine without any hesitation. If anyone obstructs you, I will take care of him.” The Prince Angada added: “I have to do even a prohibited act when a triumphant Anjaneya wants it; not to speak of ordinary things like this.” The Vanaras were pleased and admired Angada for his indulgence. They continued to eat and drink and assaulted the security guard who attempted to obstruct them. Finally, most of the security guards who were outnumbered, were completely humiliated by the invading monkeys and took to their heels. The Prince Angada himself engaged Dadhimukha in a fight and broke his limbs.
Dadhimukha realised that the situation had gone out of hand and decided to complain to the King Sugriva, holding the Prince solely responsible for the misbehaviour of the group. Accordingly, he withdrew the security guards and accompanied by them, repaired to the King.
Note: Angada, the Vanara Prince, is as much the owner of the garden as the King and yet he allows the garden to be used up and even mutilated by his triumphant followers as a reward for their toil and success in a noble mission.
Episode 28 - Jambavan's further enquiry into Anjaneya's mission. Angada's sugggestion
Jambavan, pleased as he was, as well as Hanuman, addressed him thus: “How did you see Sita Devi? How is she there? How does the cruel ten-headed Ravana treat her? O Great Vanara! Please tell us exactly what happened and then we will decide the future course of action. Also specify what shall be conveyed to Sugriva and Rama when we meet them and what, if any, shall be kept secret.”
Hanuman, thus requested by Jambavan, bowed to Sita Devi in his mind and then narrated the various events that happened since his departure for Lanka until his return. He wound up saying that Sita was in a pitiable condition, being constantly terrorised by the Rakshasi guards. She was lying on the floor, always pining for her husband and spurning Ravana and was determined to lay down her life. She was also warned by Ravana that she would be killed if she did not yield to him in two months' time. In answer to his wickedness, Sita told Ravana that he had kidnapped her in the absence of Rama like a thief and that he was not fit to be even Rama's servant. At this, Ravana got wild and raised his fist to kill her but was prevented from doing so by Mandodari, his Queen and was persuaded to leave the place.
Anjaneya continued: “The ugly Rakshasi guards have been regularly terrorising Sita by their wicked and cruel words but have failed to influence her. When they were asleep, I introduced myself to Sita by the narration of Rama's story. After she developed confidence in me, I informed her of my mission and the determination of Rama and Lakshmana to invade Lanka, destroy Ravana and his followers and redeem her. On being questioned by Sita, I informed her about our ability and possible plan to overrun Lanka.”
“I wanted to wage war myself to test the enemy and accordingly, destroyed the Asoka Garden. In the ensuing battle, I killed thousands of Rakshasa warriors and also Aksha, Ravana's son. Finally, I was captured by Indrajit through Brahmastra and hauled into the presence of Ravana. I told everything to Ravana, my identification and my purpose in being there. Finally, I advised him to return Sita to Rama according to Dharma lest he should face annihilation at the hands of Rama and Sugriva. Ravana, hearing my severe warning, lost control of himself and ordered my death. However, upon the pleadings of Vibhishana, Ravana's brother, on my behalf, Ravana ordered that my tail be burnt and that I be paraded in the streets of Lanka. It was done and with the help of the fire burning on my tail, I set all the important buildings and palaces on fire and killed many Rakshasas again.”
“Finally, I went back to Sita to ensure that she was safe. I found her out of the reach of fire and took leave of her. I have flown back to join you all. I have accomplished everything desired by our King, Sugriva, by the grace of Rama and also by your own splendour. Whatever remains to be done may be done. Because of Sita's chastity, Rama's effort coupled with Sugriva's enterprise is bound to succeed. I am devoted to Sita's cause. An angry Sita can do what even Fire cannot do.”
However, under the circumstances, it will be appropriate for us, with the permission of our elders like Jambavan, to take Sita along with us to Rama. I have the ability to destroy the whole of Lanka along with Ravana and his forces. Together with you, O valiant Vanaras! it is much easier. No Astra will be effective against me. Lack of permission to finish off the task inhibits my valour.”
“In fact, Angada, the son of Vali, can destroy all the Rakshasas single-handed. So also, Panasa, Minda and Dwiwida can overrun the Rakshasas and there is no need for others to fight. I have caused enough destruction in Lanka to announce my presence there as the messenger of Rama. Rama, Lakshmana and Sugriva will triumph.”
“Sita is glad to know of the friendship between Rama and Sugriva. If she has not destroyed Ravana, the sinner, by the power of her chastity and penance, the reason is that there is no permission from Rama for her to act. Adhering to the traditional discipline, she is suffering silently. Rama will only be an instrument in Ravana's death, which is bound to occur. Remedial action to recover Sita shall be determined.”
After hearing Hanuman, Angada, the Prince, addressed the Vanaras: “O Vanaras! Having found Sita, it is not proper for us to go back to Rama without her and it is not appropriate in the context of your well known valour. O Great Vanaras! You know that there is none among the Devas or the demons equal to us in flight or fighting ability. Anjaneya has already killed the leading Rakshasas. There is nothing left for us except to take Janaki back to Rama.”
Responding to Angada's proposal the elderly Jambavan said: “O Prince! Your idea is not out of place. However, you have to visualise our success through a plan that will accord with Rama's thinking.”
Note: Just Like Anjaneya, Angada, the Vanara Prince, feels that their task is not complete without taking back Sita. However, they respect the elderly Jambavan's advice that Rama's plan alone should guide them.
Hanuman, thus requested by Jambavan, bowed to Sita Devi in his mind and then narrated the various events that happened since his departure for Lanka until his return. He wound up saying that Sita was in a pitiable condition, being constantly terrorised by the Rakshasi guards. She was lying on the floor, always pining for her husband and spurning Ravana and was determined to lay down her life. She was also warned by Ravana that she would be killed if she did not yield to him in two months' time. In answer to his wickedness, Sita told Ravana that he had kidnapped her in the absence of Rama like a thief and that he was not fit to be even Rama's servant. At this, Ravana got wild and raised his fist to kill her but was prevented from doing so by Mandodari, his Queen and was persuaded to leave the place.
Anjaneya continued: “The ugly Rakshasi guards have been regularly terrorising Sita by their wicked and cruel words but have failed to influence her. When they were asleep, I introduced myself to Sita by the narration of Rama's story. After she developed confidence in me, I informed her of my mission and the determination of Rama and Lakshmana to invade Lanka, destroy Ravana and his followers and redeem her. On being questioned by Sita, I informed her about our ability and possible plan to overrun Lanka.”
“I wanted to wage war myself to test the enemy and accordingly, destroyed the Asoka Garden. In the ensuing battle, I killed thousands of Rakshasa warriors and also Aksha, Ravana's son. Finally, I was captured by Indrajit through Brahmastra and hauled into the presence of Ravana. I told everything to Ravana, my identification and my purpose in being there. Finally, I advised him to return Sita to Rama according to Dharma lest he should face annihilation at the hands of Rama and Sugriva. Ravana, hearing my severe warning, lost control of himself and ordered my death. However, upon the pleadings of Vibhishana, Ravana's brother, on my behalf, Ravana ordered that my tail be burnt and that I be paraded in the streets of Lanka. It was done and with the help of the fire burning on my tail, I set all the important buildings and palaces on fire and killed many Rakshasas again.”
“Finally, I went back to Sita to ensure that she was safe. I found her out of the reach of fire and took leave of her. I have flown back to join you all. I have accomplished everything desired by our King, Sugriva, by the grace of Rama and also by your own splendour. Whatever remains to be done may be done. Because of Sita's chastity, Rama's effort coupled with Sugriva's enterprise is bound to succeed. I am devoted to Sita's cause. An angry Sita can do what even Fire cannot do.”
However, under the circumstances, it will be appropriate for us, with the permission of our elders like Jambavan, to take Sita along with us to Rama. I have the ability to destroy the whole of Lanka along with Ravana and his forces. Together with you, O valiant Vanaras! it is much easier. No Astra will be effective against me. Lack of permission to finish off the task inhibits my valour.”
“In fact, Angada, the son of Vali, can destroy all the Rakshasas single-handed. So also, Panasa, Minda and Dwiwida can overrun the Rakshasas and there is no need for others to fight. I have caused enough destruction in Lanka to announce my presence there as the messenger of Rama. Rama, Lakshmana and Sugriva will triumph.”
“Sita is glad to know of the friendship between Rama and Sugriva. If she has not destroyed Ravana, the sinner, by the power of her chastity and penance, the reason is that there is no permission from Rama for her to act. Adhering to the traditional discipline, she is suffering silently. Rama will only be an instrument in Ravana's death, which is bound to occur. Remedial action to recover Sita shall be determined.”
After hearing Hanuman, Angada, the Prince, addressed the Vanaras: “O Vanaras! Having found Sita, it is not proper for us to go back to Rama without her and it is not appropriate in the context of your well known valour. O Great Vanaras! You know that there is none among the Devas or the demons equal to us in flight or fighting ability. Anjaneya has already killed the leading Rakshasas. There is nothing left for us except to take Janaki back to Rama.”
Responding to Angada's proposal the elderly Jambavan said: “O Prince! Your idea is not out of place. However, you have to visualise our success through a plan that will accord with Rama's thinking.”
Note: Just Like Anjaneya, Angada, the Vanara Prince, feels that their task is not complete without taking back Sita. However, they respect the elderly Jambavan's advice that Rama's plan alone should guide them.
Episode 27 - Anjaneya's return to the northern shore and his re-joining his mates
Due to the impact of his take-off, the mountain rocks that came under his feet were reduced to ashes. Being the Wind God's son, he flew into the sky with such great force that the animals, birds and Vidyadhara ladies, staying on the mountain, were all blown around and they sought refuge in the sky out of sheer fear. Some serpents got crushed. The mountain itself was pushed down so that its top became level with the ground.
Anjaneya shone like the moon in the sky, sometimes covered by multi-coloured clouds and at other times coming out of them. Roaring like thunder, he also looked like Garutman, the Bird King, returning in triumph, having made a mark in Lanka by killing some prominent Rakshasas and having shaken Ravana himself. On the way, he affectionately touched Mainaka and moved forward like an arrow. By his thunderous roars, the very sky along with the sun seemed to be exploding. The monkeys, waiting on the northern shore, heard the mighty roars of Anjaneya and the bursts of noise caused by the winds as a result of his speed.
Jambavan recognised the significance of the sounds; called the army of monkeys and bears and remarked: “Hanuman has succeeded in his mission in every way. Otherwise, the triumphant sound would not have been produced.” The Vanaras immediately began to celebrate the success and were getting ready to welcome Hanuman. Soon the mountain-like Anjaneya descended on the peak of the Mahendra Mountain.
The monkeys were overjoyed on seeing Anjaneya and they greeted him with folded palms and offered him fruits and roots. He, in turn, saluted the elderly Jambavan and Angada, the Vanara Prince, and was greeted by them in reverence. Anjaneya reported that he had seen Sita, sunken by penance and fasting in the Asoka Garden, guarded by terrible Rakshasis. He then spent a little time with Angada, holding his hand. The monkeys celebrated his success with all kinds of tricks appropriate to them. They touched Anjaneya with joy.
Angada then said to Anjaneya admiringly: “O Vanara! There is none equal to you in strength and valour. How great is your devotion to the Master! How wonderful are your courage and heroism? Sita has been found by our good fortune and Rama will be rid of the pangs of separation from Sita.”
The Vanaras were anxious to hear more of Anjaneya's adventure and surrounded him, the Prince Angada and Jambavan. Angada shone amongst them like Indra, the Lord of Heaven, among the Devas.
Anjaneya shone like the moon in the sky, sometimes covered by multi-coloured clouds and at other times coming out of them. Roaring like thunder, he also looked like Garutman, the Bird King, returning in triumph, having made a mark in Lanka by killing some prominent Rakshasas and having shaken Ravana himself. On the way, he affectionately touched Mainaka and moved forward like an arrow. By his thunderous roars, the very sky along with the sun seemed to be exploding. The monkeys, waiting on the northern shore, heard the mighty roars of Anjaneya and the bursts of noise caused by the winds as a result of his speed.
Jambavan recognised the significance of the sounds; called the army of monkeys and bears and remarked: “Hanuman has succeeded in his mission in every way. Otherwise, the triumphant sound would not have been produced.” The Vanaras immediately began to celebrate the success and were getting ready to welcome Hanuman. Soon the mountain-like Anjaneya descended on the peak of the Mahendra Mountain.
The monkeys were overjoyed on seeing Anjaneya and they greeted him with folded palms and offered him fruits and roots. He, in turn, saluted the elderly Jambavan and Angada, the Vanara Prince, and was greeted by them in reverence. Anjaneya reported that he had seen Sita, sunken by penance and fasting in the Asoka Garden, guarded by terrible Rakshasis. He then spent a little time with Angada, holding his hand. The monkeys celebrated his success with all kinds of tricks appropriate to them. They touched Anjaneya with joy.
Angada then said to Anjaneya admiringly: “O Vanara! There is none equal to you in strength and valour. How great is your devotion to the Master! How wonderful are your courage and heroism? Sita has been found by our good fortune and Rama will be rid of the pangs of separation from Sita.”
The Vanaras were anxious to hear more of Anjaneya's adventure and surrounded him, the Prince Angada and Jambavan. Angada shone amongst them like Indra, the Lord of Heaven, among the Devas.
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