Another Salvation

Lord Rama and Lakshman had walked too long

Lord Rama was pensive about what went wrong

He could not find fault with Himself, His brother, or His Wife

Yet, The Three of them had suffered so much in their life

On one side, He was being treated like a God

On the other side, He was tricked by a fraud

By law, by scriptures, by Dharma, He had never flawed

Yet, by the invisible claws of fate, He was being clawed

He was, on one side, grateful for the good things that came His way

And the good things were the people who loved Him, He would say

But the very same fate that brought them to Him

Also snatched them without informing, as if by whim

He could not understand as to why He should suffer thus

In spite of all the spiritual practices, His mind was now a mess

Thinking about all this, Lord Rama was silent and sad

On seeing the state of his brother, Lakshman felt bad

Lakshman's mind was filled with grief but he did not think why

In Lakshman’s mind, Lord Rama’s face was the only sky

In that sky when the happy sun arises, Lakshman’s mind will be bright

When it is dark with sorrow, Lakshman’s mind will be like at night

It was night, and The Brothers found a place to sleep

Being new moon, the night was very dark and deep

Lakshman made ready, with leaves, for His Brother a bed

Lord Rama slept on it with His folded arms, for His head

Lakshman kept watch, for, insects or snakes may crawl

While to his surprise, he heard a woman’s gentle call

When he looked around searchingly, he saw a woman, dark

Coming closer to Lakshman, she said she wanted to lark

On seeing her, Lakshman was not in the least perturbed

But He did not want his Brother’s peaceful sleep disturbed

Signalling her to come to a place that was quiet

He humbly and strongly told her to behave right

“Lady! Go away from here, for, you may be tortured

I do not like beings like you, who are ill natured

Wanting my Brother to peacefully sleep, I stay awake intently

Without disturbing us, and getting hurt, you go away contently”

But the lady, named Ayomukhi, would not listen

She tried to hug Lakshman showing her teeth’s glisten

Already feeling sorry for Surphanaka, Lakshman pushed her aside

But the fallen Ayomukhi, on the ground, would not passively reside

She again tried to hug him and vehemently pulled

Lakshman drew out his knife, and on her face he tilled

Hurt badly and bleeding profusely, she ran away shouting

From the ears and nose that were cut, blood was spouting

On hearing her shouts, Lord Rama awoke

On Lakshman’s absence, His Heart felt a choke

Disturbed was His mind, by the lady’s crying voice

He called out to Lakshman with a broken voice

On hearing his Brother’s call, Lakshman quickly went

On seeing His brother’s face, Lord Rama’s fear did vent

“What happened? Lakshman! Where have you been?

I was completely unnerved, for, you were not seen!”

Lakshman narrated about the woman who was gruff

Lord Rama appreciated Lakshman for being tough

About how danger could anytime creep,

They talked for sometime and went to sleep

The sleep after that, for Lord Rama, was a gentle stream

He saw His beautiful Wife, by His side, in a pleasant dream

The next day morning, Lord Rama woke, calling out Her name

Shocked on seeing, His dream and reality were not the same

He sat silently for sometime digesting the truth that was bitter

He then, as per routine, worshipped the sun, and felt much better

The Brothers started the journey immediately after eating fruits

They kept walking for long through wild animals’ roaming routes

They had crossed the area, where with trees, the forest flushes

And were now walking on an area full of rocks, shrubs, and bushes

As They walked, They saw a tentacled being coming towards them

Before The Brothers could realise, what it was, it gripped them

The Brothers realised, They were gripped by a gigantic hand

And when it dragged, They could not resist or firmly stand

A weird creature was dragging Them to death, They saw

Towards its wide open mouth which had teeth like saw

It was like a big ball with one eye, which was red

Whether it was sitting or lying could not be said

It had two hands that were long, flexible like a snake

And it had a mouth in its stomach, for food to take

Lord Rama, to fight, had no mood

He decided, for the creature, to become food

Allowing Himself to be dragged, to Lakshman, He talked

Lakshman to escape somehow and go back home, He asked

“You have done so much for Me Lakshman, please escape

Let Me become food for the creature, whose mouth is agape

I am so unlucky, and for Me, You should not anymore suffer

A life, with Our mothers and your young wife, you must prefer”

On hearing Lord Rama say such things, Lakshman’s throat choked

With his sword, on the hand that was dragging His Brother, he poked

He poked it so hard that the hand, to the ground, was pinned and tied

The creature that was dragging Lord Rama, painfully, yelled and cried

Lord Rama was free, and Lakshman was being dragged

On seeing which, Lord Rama’s Heart deeply sagged

Lakshman lost heart and thought his death was close

As if bidding farewell to his Brother, his words he chose

“Brother! To be Your Brother, I know I was fortunate

Forgive me if I had anytime erred and behaved obstinate

I wanted to die with You, serving You till Your life is at brink

Now, I want You to live long! And often about me, please do think”

On hearing Lakshman say thus, Lord Rama’s tears burst

He ran drawing His sword as His anger was at its worst

Before Lakshman could enter the creature’s mouth, He leapt

The hand was cut, and by profuse blood the ground was swept

Lord Rama hugged Lakshman like His long lost wealth

In each others’ hugs, Their contentment was restored to health

They then looked at the creature, thinking, ‘what must be done next’

To their surprise, it started to talk as if reading from its heart a text

“Lord! I am Kabandha, wealthy Dhanu’s son

I am sorry, for Your life, I gave You a run

You Both are Ram and Lakshman, am I right?

I am blessed, for, You Two have come to my sight”

Lord Rama and Lakshman were surprised by his talk at first

But they remembered Viradha who was in a salvation quest

To Kabandha’s question, Lord Rama nodded

Wanting to know more, Lord Rama prodded

“Lord! Previous to this birth, I had good looks

But I did not care to be in sages’ good books

I took ugly forms and threatened all sages

And took much delight in provoking their rages

One sage, named Sthoolasiras, lost his patience

And I had to take, with ugly form, another nascence

In this birth, I performed severe penance

Brahma made my bodily strength enhance

I became arrogant due to my unlimited strength

I performed many anarchic activities at length

Once, Indra, the king of gods, in war I tried to win

Indra hit me with Vajrayudha and my head went in

My head and legs went in and stayed in my bosom

Yet, without tearing, all parts were wholesome

With my head sunk, I could not see, eat, or hear

I begged, pleaded and asked for forgiveness in fear

Indra out of mercy granted me an eye and mouth

And he told me to go down and live in the south

He also granted me hands that were long

So that, I can grab animals and eat, to live long

Indra already said that, by You Both, my hands will be cut

And that I would regain my original form, after that”

When Kabandha said so, Lord Rama was intrigued

About the information that His future was prologued

“Lord! Indra asked me to give You one more information

But my memory is vague and about it, I have no confirmation

If You could cremate me by digging a pit and building a pyre,

I can regain my original form as my sins will be burnt by fire”

As per Kabandha’s request, Lord Rama and Lakshmana did

Kabandha rose up from the fire, and the information he said

“Lord! I realise You have lost Your Wife, that noble Woman

She had been abducted by Ravana, the very wicked demon

A monkey named Sugriva, You must befriend

That friendship will change Your life’s trend

Before that, an austere woman, Sabari, You must meet

She has been waiting long for You, so that She can greet”

Saying thus, Kabandha wished them success all the way

Happy that, some useful information, to The Lord, he could say

He then disappeared after falling at The Holy Feet of Ram!

Hailing the Lord, by saying, “Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!”

Kolaveri for Lord Rama!

When a devotee of Lord Rama is caught by a Bandwagon such as 'Kolaveri'... This is what happens...:) ... Jai Shri Ram!

Yo Boys… I am sing song…..

Truth song….

Ruth song…..

How this Greatness Greatness Greatness Sir…..

How this Greatness Greatness Greatness Sir…..

Rhythm correct….

How this Greatness Greatness Greatness Sir…..

Maintain please…..

How this Greatness…. aa Sir…?

The Most Supreme God-u God-u…

Came to earth as Man-u….

The Man’s life so Great-u Great-u

While facing adverse fate-u!

How this Greatness Greatness Greatness Sir…..

Kaikeyi skin-u white-u white-u

But her heart was black-u

With Your daddy fight-u fight-u

But You did what was right-u….

Lakshmana came with you….

Mother Sita too joined with you…..

Ram Rama Ram… Ram Rama Ram… Ram Rama Ram Hare Ram…

Ram Rama Ram… Ram Rama Ram… Ram Rama Ram Hare Ram…

Chant properly….

Super hut was ready…

Years went…one.. two …three….four

Waaa…. What a change over that was…..

Ok…Lord… Then ur life changed-u….

Kaatla… kudisa….

Only English—

Jungle Hut-u…. Hut-la life-u….

Life with no fear-u…..

Peaceful-life-u….Ravan-come-u…..

Life reversu gear-u…..

Searching Searching….U went searching…

All the way walking….

Bow-u Bow-u.. With your bow-u..

You won him with your bow-u…

God-u You are so so great-u

I am wondering how-u…..

This song-u at Your feet-u

Which is so sweet-u….

How this Greatness Greatness Greatness Sir

Brave Jatayu

Jatayu was sitting on a tree he used to sit usually

Pecking at a fish that he had caught, casually

Suddenly, he heard Mother Sita’s wail very loud

He turned to see Mother Sita on a golden cloud

Jatayu was surprised on seeing the golden object, that could fly

On seeing his daughter-like Sita being abducted, his anger was high

Forcefully holding Her was a man dark, tall, and with ten heads

Jatayu was incensed beyond a limit by Mother Sita’s tear sheds

The man was grasping Mother Sita by Her hair

On seeing that Jatayu's anger was a furious flare

The man showed no mercy to Mother Sita's pleads

Jatayu wanted to wreck the man's heads like weeds

Jatayu saw no shame or mercy in the man's faces that were cruel

To Jatayu's anger, the arrogance exhibited by the man, was a fuel

Wanting to stop the man from getting away, Jatayu took flight

To give courage to wailing Mother Sita, Jatayu picked up a fight

“Stop! You coward! Philanderer and thief!

Wait for Her Husband, for a moment brief

If truly, you have any pride in your valour

Do not behave with a fox’s demeanour

You are that Ravana, king of Lanka! Are you not?

How could you act so stupid, without fore thought?

What you are doing is nothing but suicide

Rama will wreck the island in which you reside

I’ve heard stories about how wicked and stupid you are

Now you demonstrate that by abducting Her, in Your car

First play with Rama and Lakshman the valour game

Win! And then take Her, if You have any shame”

Ravana was keen on escaping and therefore gave no reply

Jatayu was incensed, and some violence, he did apply

He jumped on to Ravana’s chest plunging his claws

And pecked Ravana on all his heads, for his flaws

Ravana was irritated heavily by this unexpected obstacle

He could not proceed further caught by Jatayu’s tentacle

Blood sprouted from Ravana’s heads and eyes

He decided to kill the bird, in his path, that vies

Jatayu by then knocked Ravana’s all ten crowns down

Ravana’s eyes rolled in anger like the crowns that rolled down

Ravana snatched his knife and stabbed Jatayu vehemently

Though hurt very bad, Jatayu put up a fight more ardently

Jatayu clung on to Ravana’s chest and never left

Ravana’s hope of getting away was almost bereft

It was getting late, and Ravana was caught by fear

That Lord Rama and Lakshman would be coming near

He had heard in detail about Lord Rama’s strength

Maricha had explained about it to him, in length

Out of fear and anger, He took a powerful sword

And cut off the left wing off the dutiful bird

Jatayu lost his balance and helplessly fell

Assurance, to crying Sita, he could not tell

He saw, as he fell, Mother Sita with tears stretching Her hand

Heart broken for not being able to help, he hit the land

Jatayu prayed desperately that he must not die

Hoping Lord Rama would come soon, he did lie

Mother Sita’s wailing lay heavily on his heart

Though he knew, he did his best on his part

Lord Rama with Lakshman was walking south

Silence was decorating His ever truthful mouth

Mother Sita was decorating His beautiful mind

Whom He knew not, how He was going to find

As They went, drops of blood on the way, they saw

Dropping down from a tree, it was fresh and raw

They saw a little further, a flag, on which a Veena was drawn

They knew it was a clue to where the abductor was gone

As They walked a little more, They saw a crown

On seeing its white pearls, Lord Rama did frown

“This crown belongs to that wicked and cowardly abductor

Who, to his own people and land, is going to be the destructor”

Leaving the crown behind, they walked further south watching

The sun above was high, and it was to a great extent scorching

On the way, at some distance, They saw a body of a beast lying

When They went close, They saw Their beloved Jatayu was dying

Jatayu had wounds all over his body, shedding profuse blood

He had shed so much blood that the land around him was red

Without one of his wings, his body was looking like an oval jar

He was so weak that his moaning could not be heard from far

When Lord Rama called out to him, he replied weakly

Feeling relieved on seeing The Brothers, he talked meekly

“Rama! Lakshman! Where have You both been?

In protecting Gentle Sita, should You not be keen?”

On seeing the bird struggle, Lord Rama shed tears

He lifted the bird, and on his laps, he placed its rears

“Jatayu! My dear uncle! Who has done this to you?

My father is dead, Sita is lost, and now it is going to be you!”

“Rama! Don’t cry! Be brave and act very fast

I do not have much time left to breathe my last

Ravana, king of Lanka, has abducted Her by force

Having a flying object at hand, the sky way, he chose

But, do not think, She is lost to You for ever

Vindham, the time She was stolen, has some power

In that time if anything is lost, it cannot be lost for long

Realising this, search for Her, and always remain strong

Use Your weapons and wisdom; never become weakened

Make Ravana regret, for this incident to have happened

Promise me that You will win Her back without fail

In my ears echo Your names, She called to no avail”

“I promise, I will!” A crying Lord Rama strongly said

As He was wiping, from Jatayu’s wounds, flowing blood

Lord Rama realised, to protect Mother Sita, Jatayu had fought

Trying to defend Mother Sita, death on himself, Jatayu had brought

After hearing Lord Rama’s promise, Jatayu breathed his last

And attained the highest world, coveted by sages, very fast

The gates of the highest world opened and gave him gap

For, he was a lucky soul who had died on The Lord’s Lap

Lord Rama’s love for Jatayu was already deep

On seeing Jatayu’s loyalty, further love did seep

Lord Rama shed tears of love and regret ceaselessly

Feeling miserable about watching Jatayu die helplessly

After much crying, Lord Rama decided to do the ritual cremation

And offer, to the departed soul, water and sesame as oblation

Lord Rama’s regret, that He could not cremate His father, went

Being able to act like a son for Jatayu; great satisfaction it lent

Lord Rama lifted Jatayu and held him in His Hand

And waited till Lakshman readied the pyre stand

Jatayu’s body on the woods, He gently laid

Showering flowers on it, His homage He paid

He then set fire to it and stood by crying, profuse

And watched the smoke rise into the sky and suffuse

Once the body was burned to ashes, He collected them

Went to a nearby river, and chanting mantras, dissolved them

In offering to Jatayu’s soul, sesame seeds and water He gave

Praying that, the soul from hunger and thirst, it must save

He then chanted mantras for the welfare of the soul

And that made the cremation ritual complete and whole

Thus Jatayu fought bravely and gave up his life for Ram

Like a father, he died, on Lord Rama’s lap that was warm

Jatayu from heaven watched his body, cremated by Ram

Melting and in gratitude saying, “Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!”

The Lord's sorrow and anger

A fox wailed loudly from Lord Rama’s hind

This ominous happening shook Lord Rama’s mind

Lord Rama walked towards the ashram in a hurried pace

Desperate sweat poured down from His darkened face

That His wife would not have sent His brother, Lord Rama hoped

In walks and runs with an unsteady mind, Lord Rama loped

On the way, Lord Rama came upon a sight

Seeing which, Lord Rama froze in fright

Lakshman was strolling with his head down

In his always humble face there was a thoughtful frown

There was no more enthusiasm left in his nerves

He swayed his bow, aimlessly, on the ground in curves

As He walked, Lord Rama called out to His brother as if to wake

Lakshman lifted up his head, giving to his thoughtfulness, a break

Lakshman’s face showed fears of disapproval from His Lord

As if accepting a failure and a mistake, he stood in accord

“Where is Sita, Lakshman?! What are you doing here?

To leave Her alone in the ashram, have you no fear?

To be on Her guard, till I come back, did I not tell?

Your action increases My fear that something is not well!”

“Brother! Mother commanded me to come to Your aid

On hearing Your voice call us, She was very much afraid

I knew it is not in Your nature to call anyone for help

But, the fear of losing You, Mother Sita could not gulp!”

“Knowing it’s just Her fear, why did you take it seriously?

What if something happens to Her, in Our absence, grievously?

Why did you not try to convince Her otherwise

That to fear about My safety is not very wise?”

Lakshman stood silently for sometime and then started to speak

The reason, as to why his determination to stay back, became weak

“Brother! Mother was angry with me when I wouldn’t go

Accusations regarding my character, She tried to throw

She accused me of coveting Her, and it very much pained

She accused me of awaiting Your death, and yet I remained

Hoping, the rightness in my decision, She would soon know

And that all Her anger, on seeing You, would melt like snow

But then, on seeing me so stubborn, Her suspicion and fear grew

With much firmness, Your sword from its sheath, She swiftly drew

Pointing it to Her chest, She threatened to thrust

My clarity of thinking was immediately bust

I fell at Her reverent Feet, crying and pleading

Telling Her to stop and that I was heeding

Only after I got ready with my weapons, the sword, She dropped

Her bitter crying, angry scolding, and vehement threatening, She stopped”

Unable to control anymore, Lakshman poured out his grief

Shedding tears, and dejected, He expressed his feelings, brief

“After all the years of service, this is the trust I earned

Being accused of betrayal, my heart is completely burnt”

Lord Rama hugged Lakshman and patted on his cheek

And tried to cheer him telling him not to be so weak

“She has spoken out of fear; do not take it to heart

You know, none can think of Me, leaving you apart

When She wanted to join Me in exile, She accused Me too

Women use tears and emotional words to get their points, through

Taking that to heart please do not get dejected or sad

Praiseful words for you, before Me, She has always had

When I tried to send you back home, did She not support you?

Only because of a wife’s fear, She has behaved, startling and new”

Lakshman, on hearing Lord Rama speak thus, dropped all his depression

Lakshman smiled at Lord Rama with a childlike and happy expression

“Brother! I am sorry I was affected by criticism and got distracted

Without getting hurt by passing anger, my duty, I must have enacted

I must have climbed some tree and watched the ashram without fail

Now I feel bad for coming all the way, dejected, with a heart so frail”

Both of their spirits were lifted by each other’s understanding and love

Both of them were walking towards the ashram in runs and walks, now

Lord Rama told Lakshman that He would pinch Mother Sita’s ears for sure

And make Her do Thoppukaranam before Lakshman, for Her obstinacy to cure

Talking thus Lord Rama and Lakshman laughed

In quite sometime, the distance was almost halved

Lord Rama asked Lakshman about the time he left

On hearing which Lord Rama’s hope was bereft

Lakshman had left the ashram more than an hour ago

More than five to six kilometer distance they had to go

They walked and ran fast, not talking much

Praying, They must see Mother Sita as such

Lord Rama’s intuition was ringing an uneasy alarm

Shaking off His fears, He tried to keep His mind calm

In the next thirty minutes, to the ashram, they were near

Unable to believe what they saw, They Both froze in fear

The plantain trees before the ashram were fallen

Flowers were scattered everywhere with their pollen

The fence at the entrance was, towards the ground, leaning

Lord Rama and Lakshman fearfully contemplated the meaning

As if for Their lives, towards the ashram, They ran

Calling out to Mother Sita as loud as They can

But to Their heartbreaking dismay, there was no response

Threatening silence was everywhere, sitting in an ensconce

Lord Rama knelt before the ashram catching His head

Lakshman could not think of words that could be said

Asking Lord Rama to rise, Lakshman stood by His flank

Lord Rama heard or saw nothing, as all for Him was blank

Lord Rama then, opened His eyes and looked everywhere

As if trying to find out, where He and His brother were

Just a moment went by and His memory was flooded

Lord Rama realised He was in the situation, He dreaded

As if pushed by a sudden impulse , He arose and ran

In, out, and around the ashram, like a crazy man

What ever He saw that moment, His tears did shroud

As if, like a blind man for help, He shouted loud

He rotated and revolved, like earth, around His favourite hut

To Him, all doors for a meaningful life ahead was fully shut

His wife, His only attachment, from Him was snatched

Any ray of hope, about getting Her back, was thatched

With hope, He ran to the river bank to see

Thinking, fetching water, His Wife could be

All He could see was the empty bank and flowing waters

Flowing nonchalantly, as if to tell Him, it could not care less

He ran into the woods where they usually walked

And looking everywhere, unto the air, He talked

“Sita! Dear! Just for fun, are You hiding anywhere

If that is so, please come out, I am unable to bear

To see Your Face and Smile, My Heart yearns

Clouded by fearful smokes, My Heart burns

I feel like my head is going to anytime burst

I don’t think life can become anymore worst

Why fate targets Me again and again and treats Me so unkind?

Why does it snatch from Me my loved ones, leaving none behind?

What sin have I committed that I can love no one for very long?

Previous birth, I must have been a sinner and acted very wrong

I had to walk away from My father while he bitterly cried

I could not be at his side, to caress his chest, while he died

I could not give a shoulder when his body was kept on pyre

Though being the eldest son, I was not there to light the fire

I had to send back the people, both young and old

They came to Me out of love but I had to remain cold

Bharatha came to Me, renouncing all comfort, like dust

But separation from Me, upon him, I had to thrust

Why was I not born as a farmer, who happily ploughs the land?

I would’ve gone back home, everyday, holding My Wife’s Hand

As a Prince, with high responsibilities, why was I born?

Is it only to be caught in inextricable situations and get torn?

Why was I gifted with brothers and wife, so loving?

And then, why am I forced into separation and lonely living?

If only I was born as an orphan would I know, ‘what is love?’

If only I never knew that, would I have to lament like this now?

Why does this fate, as if by random wish, give and take

By torturing innocent men like this, what does it make?

Why was I not born as a tree in the forest whose life is so good?

Dancing in the breeze and giving shade, I could have happily stood

When my life, to me, is a burden

What service, can I offer men?

Was I born only to suffer?

Why does death, from me, defer?”

Saying thus and more, Lord Rama cried out like an orphan

Lakshman caressed His chest and head and consoled Him often

Lakshman too had run about the ashram surroundings in search

He noticed, brave Jatayu too was not seen, in his usual tree, perch

After much crying, Lord Rama laid down on the ground

And remained there for long without a word or sound

Like a baby in the womb with folded legs, He lay on his side

As if wanting the earth to open and forever take Him inside

Not wanting to hear anything, He closed His ears

From His tightly shut eyes, flowed river-like tears

Lakshman sat by His side and begged Him to take courage

Reminding Him, how all problems in life, are just a mirage

“To handle the situation at hand, this is not the attitude

We must act now and find Mother Sita, with fortitude

We cannot find Her, if You lie like a bird without a wing

You must use Your valour and wisdom, being a ‘to be king’”

The words, ‘find Mother Sita’, stirred Lord Rama again

It was like a balm applied to soothe His unbearable pain

Lord Rama after long arose from the ground and sat

Tears flowed for long from His eyes that did not bat

After sometime, He composed Himself and wiped His tears

Gathering hope, He decided to keep at bay His sorrows and fears

He stood up slowly and walked mustering His formidable will

On finding what had happened, He fixed His thinking skill

The Brothers went to the ashram observing everything on the way

The ashram animals gathered around, as if they wanted to say

Lakshman told Lord Rama that even Jatayu was not seen

Nodding thoughtfully to Lakshman, Lord Rama’s eyes were keen

Lord Rama noticed a sage’s ochre robs lie on the ground

White pearls, not belonging to Mother Sita’s jewels, were found

Within the fence, Lord Rama saw new and big foot marks deeply sagged

From the ashram to the fence, marks showed, someone was dragged

Lord Rama remembered the king, Maricha had mentioned while dying

He realised it was that king’s plan to defeat Him, without face to face vying

Outside the fence, there was a large square mark on the land

A square so large, within which, about hundred men could stand

Just before the square, the drag marks and foot marks ended

As to what would have happened, some light They rendered

Lord Rama first thought, ‘the mark was made by a palanquin’s pressing’

There were no foot marks of its carriers to support Lord Rama’s guessing

“Lakshman, the square mark shows something heavy stood there

But I am unable to guess, how the abductor of Sita brought it there

The land around shows no mark of people’s or animals’ feet

Without anyone carrying it, how was it lifted from its seat?”

To Lord Rama’s question, Lakshman thoughtfully nodded

His conclusion about the scene, Lakshman thoughtfully added

“Brother! I don’t think there was more than one man here

Seeing the same foot steps everywhere, this to me is clear”

Lord Rama too felt Lakshman’s guessing was right

He wondered if there was an object that could take flight

Thinking about all this, His anger enormously grew

With much determination, fire like words He threw

“Somebody is being very desperate, to die at My hand

He wants to destroy himself, his people, and his land

If only I don’t get back My Sita, as I saw last

I will destroy this entire creation that is vast

I will make the Gods, I humbly worshipped, beg and plead

For silently easing and watching from heavens, this anarchic deed

If I do not get an explanation for making Me suffer thus

My arrows with deadly mantras will create unlimited fuss

I will crush the king to a painful death for crossing my path

Even Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva cannot escape my wrath

What works do these God’s have other than protecting a man of truth?

Always being worshipped and pampered, they remain silent without ruth!

I will force these Gods who are so high

To come down and give me a humble reply

First, I will kill that cowardly demon king in war

Then for my arrows, those heavens will not be far”

Saying thus Lord Rama fumed unable to control His rage

Lakshman had never seen Lord Rama like that all his age

Lakshman, himself fuming in anger, knew not what to say

He silently remained, leaving Lord Rama be His way

Lord Rama then composed Himself and decided to go ahead

In search of His angel who His good fortune made Him wed

The Brothers got up discussing in which direction they would go

The ashram animals gathered around as if they wanted to show

They ran towards the south and looked back at Ram

They lifted their heads pointing to the sky that was calm

Thus another arduous and enlightening journey began in the noble life of Ram

As the animals sadly watched Him, thinking, ‘Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!’

The Golden Deer

The Noble Three had slowly returned to a normal life

It was more than a month since the unfortunate strife

The Noble Three thought of those incidents as a nightmare

Lord Rama’s wounds were long healed by Mother Sita’s care

About such encounters with demons, Mother Sita did fear

But, as time went by, Her mind became free and clear

Lord Rama and Lakshman, on Her, always kept an eye

Though no danger was imminent, their alertness was high

Lord Rama took care that Mother Sita’s mind is always light

Gifting flowers and rabbits, He was to Her, as always, a delight

About their parents, relatives, and friends, they talked a lot

Panchavati, to them, became once again a delightful spot

Lakshman at Lord Rama’s behest, for Mother Sita, made a swing

Pushed to and fro by Lord Rama, sitting on it, happily She did sing

At times, The Divine Couple sat together and kicked it to and fro

Their happiness like the waxing moon once again started to grow

Once Mother Sita, in the backyard, was picking up colourful flowers

The Brothers sat in the front discussing various mantras’ powers

The Brothers heard, Mother Sita call them in a delightful cry

They went back to see, what had made, Her spirits so high

They saw a golden deer that was strange and exotic

With golden skin and embedded gems, it was truly artistic

It had a white silky line of hair running on its hunch

On the tips of leaves and select herbs, a little it did munch

Its little tail that was colourful, often it twitched

From one shrub to another, it nonchalantly switched

Often it raised its head sprouting its ears that were swank

From the water collected on the grounds, for its thirst, it drank

As if to touch the ground gently, it placed its hoofs that were white

As if in fear, it blinked with its eyes that were black and bright

With every step, it looked like it was dancing to a rhythmic chime

Its black nose, like well polished granite, was, by beauty, very prime

Its silvery horns were branched and into the air they spread

With gems at the tips, they looked like a crown on its head

The gems embedded throughout its body were of various hues

Matching and contrasting each other, they were a splendid fuse

Catching Lord Rama’s hands, Mother Sita gazed at the deer

On seeing such splendour, Her child like excitement was sheer

Her joy made Lord Rama happy, and He too watched the deer

As if it wanted Them to admire, the deer came closer without fear

“I am bewitched beyond a limit by this wonderful creature

Beauty has been bestowed to it lavishly on every feature

I have never heard about such an animal so ornate in its nature

How would it be, if we could take it home, while we go in future?”

Lord Rama silently listened to Mother Sita’s desires with a smile

Lakshman tried to speak up his doubts that this could be a guile

“Mother! This deer that glitters may not be really gold

This could be some demon, cunning, deceptive, and bold

I hope You remember Surphanaka who was young and slim

Who later revealed her old body, once Brother Rama behaved grim

This is the nature of all rakshasas; we must not be deceived

A bitter lesson, regarding their nature, we have already received”

On hearing Lakshman speak, Mother Sita’s face fell

The disappointment in Her Heart, tears came out to tell

Thinking deeply for a moment, She accepted with a nod

That the beautiful deer could be the disguise of a fraud

Seeing Mother Sita’s tears, Lord Rama’s heart began to melt

Allowing His Wife to be disappointed, to Him, was great insult

Whether the deer was true or fake

An attempt for Her, He wanted to make

“I’ve decided to go for the deer” Lord Rama said

Smiling at Mother Sita, He turned His head

He asked obedient Lakshman to fetch His bow

The reason for His decision, He explained though

“Lakshman, Sita has desired for the deer

Fulfilling Her wish, to me, is very dear

She has never desired for anything as far as I know

But She has walked difficult paths for Me in a row

I do not want to sit back simply without trying

While, with an unfulfilled desire, Her heart is crying”

On hearing Lord Rama say this, Mother Sita was glad

Yet, She was afraid that something might go bad

“Lord! I know You would do this and more for Me

But this desire of Me is nothing, so let it be

As Lakshman says that deer could be some demon

Such acts by those wicked beings are always common

I do not want a deer, putting our lives at risk

Even a small mistake can make our fortune whisk

So, let the golden deer roam and go its way

The attempt to catch it, please keep at bay”

In His decision, to go for the deer, Lord Rama remained

The reason for sticking to His decision, Lord Rama explained

“Dear! One reason, I think I should go for the deer, is You

The other, is to know the truth behind the deer, which is new

I too think this deer must be some demon’s treason

In that case, to go, I have all the more reason

Why should some asura come here in guise?

Is their strength in the jungle again on rise?

How can we sit back and relax when we think,

Demons are still roaming in our ashram’s brink?

So let me go and try to snatch this deer for You

While Lakshman stays behind and protects You

I will be getting You a gift if this deer is true and rare

You and the deer, in our ashram, will make a beautiful pair

In case I find this deer is a pretense

Then I will kill it for such offense

A whole army, all by myself, did I not take on

So please do not be scared while I am gone

I am protected by mantras, sage Vishwamitra taught

I cannot be, by anyone’s deceit, defeated or caught”

Mother Sita, though worried, felt Lord Rama was right

Lakshman was completely satisfied knowing Lord Rama’s might

Lord Rama received the bow and arrows His brother brought

Kissing His wife good-bye, after the golden deer, He sought

He slowly walked out of the ashram looking for the deer

The deer was loitering amidst shrubs in a space that was clear

Lord Rama rubbed on Himself some herbs as a cover scent

Bending His knees and hiding Himself, towards the deer, He went

He came close to the deer about a distance, four feet

To hug it from behind, He leaped, and the deer took fleet

He was surprised when He thought how the deer could have sensed

While His smell, sound, and presence from it were completely fenced

The deer had run off quite a distance but was very much in sight

Only after Lord Rama went close to it, it again took flight

The deer repeated this act in a cunning way

Lord Rama, far from the ashram, it led astray

Lord Rama observed how the deer hovered within His sight

And how, only when He went close to it, it showed fright

Lord Rama noticed, from the shrubs, it pretended to eat

Leaves were all intact, green, fresh, whole, and neat

Lord Rama also noticed the other animals showing fear

When the golden deer, though very tiny, went to their near

Birds on the trees fluttered above and it took long to settle

Even larger stags ran away from it in spite of their mettle

Stronger and stronger became Lord Rama’s suspicion

So He hid Himself and watched the deer for rendition

The deer, to His surprise, started to search for Him

It traced back the path, through which it led Him

It went past the tree, Lord Rama was hiding

As if in doubt and in hurry, it was striding

Now it was not as relaxed as it was before

Nor did it munch or drink, as it did before

It went through shrubs and bushes tearing them rough

To its gentle appearance, such behaviour was tough

Lord Rama was sure that it was no gentle being

And that it had come there for some evil doing

Lord Rama came out of his hiding and clapped

The deer turned back in the direction and gasped

This time before the flurrying deer could take flight

Lord Rama’s arrows pierced it with the speed of light

“Lakshman! My Brother! Help! Help! Help!”

Lord Rama was perplexed to hear the deer yelp

“Sita! My Love! Send Lakshman to Me now”

The deer imitating His voice, He knew not how

As if to answer all His questions

And as if to confirm all His suspicions

In the place of the deer that treacherously ran

There lay, bleeding and half dead, a gigantic man

When He went close and looked at the lying man’s face

Lord Rama identified the person through His memory’s trace

It was Maricha who Lord Rama’s arrow threw afar like a ball

While Lord Rama was protecting sage Vishwamitra’s yagna hall

Lord Rama was very angry and confused about Maricha’s acts

He wanted to collect from Maricha all the plans and facts

Lord Rama realised Maricha was not working alone

He approached Maricha and talked in a demanding tone

“Are you not Maricha who came to disturb My guru’s work?

Now to come here thus, who is the one, who offered you perk?

Already once, you got a chance to live again

Using it properly, some merits, could you not gain?

Why is it that you are bent in spoiling others’ peace?

Relishing what nature offers, why can’t you live in peace?

What have you gained by this act, other than loosing your life?

With people living in recluse, why do you always pick up strife?”

Lord Rama asked those questions in an angry snap

Like shooting His arrows during a fight without a gap

To His surprise, Maricha replied in an apologetic tone

Immense respect towards Lord Rama, by him, was shown

“Forgive me Lord, for, this service to my king I owed

To make my daily provider happy, my gratitude I showed

When my king asked me to trick You, I was completely shaken

For, a lesson about Your amazing might, I have already taken

When I warned my king about Your potent

My king from his way would not repent

For eating his salt and singing Your praise, he did scorn

A death sentence for me, for disobedience, he did warn

I realised my time of death had come too close

A proud death during my service, I happily chose

I know playing the fool with You is nothing but suicide

Yet, to be a good servant to my king, I did so decide

In trying to protect him from You, I have genuinely tried

And now in carrying out his orders, I am fully satisfied

Please do not hate me, for I am just the arrow

I did not act with a grudge to give You sorrow”

Lord Rama was no more angry with the dying man

He realised, the man, as a servant, has did the best he can

Anyway Lord Rama wanted to know who the king was

For that king to hate Him, He wanted to know the cause

“Who is this king, please do tell

The name of his country, please do spell

What are his future plans? Please do say!

Why did he choose this tricky way?”

“Lord! Before rendering answers to Your questions

From my life, I like to give You some visions

To what I have to say, please do listen

Then you tell me, how to end this mission

Lord! We first met while You were a teen

More than twenty long years, it has been

I was flying towards the sage Vishwamitra’s hut

You were facing us, demons, with tremendous gut

The first moment I saw Your hand go to the quiver

The next moment I saw my pals fall in a shiver

Before I could travel a dozen feet

I saw all my men were deplete

Then I was shocked to see Your attention on me

The next moment I felt myself flying to the sea

I realised an arrow delivered from Your bow

Hit me so hard, and I had to involuntarily go

I was stirred, and I was shaken, to the core

Even now I shiver though the incident is of the yore

From then on I chose a pious way of living

Renouncing my anarchic path of misgiving

Since then my king has been feeding me for my hunger

So within the belt of loyalty towards him, I have to linger

Only with this loyalty I tried to protect him from You

But those who give the same advice in his ministry are few

As a person who has given up the sinful way

For the person who fed me, I have to repay

So I came here, and till now, have acted well

Now my king’s name to You, You want me to tell

If I do thus, I will be betraying my king

And such act is very much a sinful thing

All my life, I could not be a very clean slate

I like to be good at the end of my fate

As I am in Your hold, if You hit

My king’s name, in pain, I may spit

But then I will be dying, failing in my duty

From such shameful death, please show me pity

I am at Your mercy, do as You please

Either way at Your feet, my life will cease

For, to the next world, I am on my way

Whether it is heaven or hell, is Your say!”

Saying thus, Maricha ended His plea

Lord Rama decided to leave him free

He silently walked to a nearby lake

And brought back water for Maricha’s sake

Maricha drank water from The Hands of Ram

Maricha in friendship, smiled at Ram

Maricha died at The Feet of Ram!

Finally uttering, “Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!”

Bloodshed

Lord Rama was sitting before His ashram on a wooden seat

Thinking of Bharatha, who, His heart yearned to meet

Mother Sita was inside the ashram doing some chore

Lakshman, to fetch water, had gone to the river shore

Like a white and shining cloud that causes dark shadow

A beautiful lady came and stood upon a nearby meadow

Seeing Lord Rama’s manly features, her eyes became wide

The lustful desire, evident in it, she did not care to hide

She wanted to be embraced by Lord Rama’s arms that were strong

Though a married woman, she did not think it was wrong

She wanted to be kissed by Lord Rama’s lips that were red

She did not care to know if Lord Rama was already wed

On seeing the Warrior’s broad chest that was unarmoured

She heaved a heavy sigh as she was helplessly enamoured

To make amorous advances, towards Him, she decided

She entered the fence of the ashram, The Noble Three resided

Lord Rama was surprised on seeing her, in that, almost deserted place

He wondered why a young woman walked alone, through jungle ways

Anyway, with goodwill, He decided to do what was best

With folded palms and smile, He greeted the uninvited guest

“I am not a goddess, just because I am dressed in gold

I hope my toned body would tell You that I am not old

So this unnecessary respect for me, You can shun

And behave like a man so that we can have some fun”

Saying thus, she winked and smiled in a naughty way

Hands on her hips, she moved them in a tempting sway

Lord Rama was shocked, ashamed, and incensed by her act

Anyway, He decided to handle the delicate issue with tact

“Lady! By behaving thus you are only inviting pain

Within the prescribed limits of a woman, please remain

Look for a man who loves you, and please marry

In talking about this to your elders, don’t tarry”

On hearing such dialogues, from inside, Mother Sita was shocked

She came out to know, with whom, Lord Rama thus talked

On seeing Mother Sita, Surphanaka, the lustful woman, smiled

She thought, because of His Wife inside, Lord Rama had guiled

“Oh! So You already have a Wife, I did not know

Giving some privacy to the dumb Couple, let me go

Good bye Lady! You can, all for Yourself, have the man

Hmmm! I hope at least with You, He will behave like a man”

She said that and laughed as though it were a joke

A man’s ego in Lord Rama, hoping she could provoke

Allowing her robes and hairs to freely fly, she turned around

In a slow catwalk, she carelessly walked out the ashram ground

With water pots in his hands, Lakshman came

Wondering who that woman was, having no shame

Almost close to rubbing against him, she went by

Lakshman stepped aside to give way, feeling shy

Lord Rama assuaged His angry brother and disgusted Wife

Relieved that she was gone, He returned to His normal life

But to His dismay, she approached Him again

And spoke unruly words that caused Him pain

“What do You see in Her, that pious looking Hen

She can be no match for me, in satisfying men”

“One more word, Lady, you will loose your teeth

From that ugly face of yours, blood will seethe”

Lord Rama’s anger only fired up her lust

Herself on Lord Rama, she tried to thrust

Before she could touch, He slapped her soon

The slap was so hard, she fell in a swoon

Lord Rama stood there for a moment, controlling his anger

He walked back to the ashram not wanting to stay any longer

When He went to the ashram, He was in a pensive mood

Mother Sita and Lakshman realised something was not good

Lord Rama told Them everything and became silent

While Surphanaka rushed in with a behaviour so violent

As she came in, the ashram’s fence and plants, she battered

Terrified by her screaming, the ashram’s animals got scattered

This time, she was not beautiful or young like before

Lord Rama recognized her only by the mouth He tore

The Brothers realised, towards Mother Sita, she was rushing

Bad and angry words about Mother Sita, she was gushing

To be, by His Wife’s side, Lord Rama stepped back

While Lakshman moved forward, deciding to whack

Hoping to scare her away, Lakshman gave out a shout

Seeing she wouldn’t budge, Lakshman pushed her out

Surphanaka retorted by trying to slap and scratch

Lakshman twisted her hands, and kept her in his catch

Seeing her mouth, by His brother, was already torn

Not wanting to hurt her anymore, he tried to warn

“Lady! Violence against women is something I hate

Once I leave you, please walk out without debate

Instead, in such stupid and useless acts, if you persist

From cutting off your nose and ears, I will not desist”

Saying thus, he slowly released the hands he gripped

Back to her violent behaviour, from calmness, she flipped

Crying and yelling, she scratched Lakshman’s chest

Lakshman realised, patience would not be anymore best

He cut off her nose and ears without another word

Drawing out from its sheathe, his sharp and shining sword

Shocked, ashamed, and in pain, she started to run

The Noble Three felt bad for what was done

Lord Rama told Lakshman that They must be alert

For, Surphanaka, in one way or other, may try to revert

Since they discussed the matter thus, not even two hours went

Surphanaka came with fourteen hefty men, for her anger to vent

From afar, they heard horses’ hoofs, making a rattle

Instantly, The warrior Brothers, got ready for battle

Well before the ashram, by Lord Rama, the enemies were faced

Without a warning or a word, their attacks, they raised

Their iron clubs, at Lord Rama, at a time, they threw

Lord Rama shredded them in a second, and their wonder grew

At Lord Rama’s Feet, the clubs lay, broken asunder

As if to show, how and why, their wielders must surrender

“Not bad!” They said. “Nice tricks you have learnt!

But lo! They are wasted as You are going to be burnt

Having messed with our king’s sister, Your life is no more Yours

And that Dame, who watches from Your behind, is going to be ours”

Saying thus, and drawing their swords, towards Lord Rama, they rushed

The next moment, from their headless torsos, bloody fountains gushed!

Struck by wonder, dismay, and fear, Surphanaka was baffled

Her lust and anger on Lord Rama grew, seeing the way He battled

With disappointment, not anger, at Surphanaka, Lord Rama stared

Surphanaka took a run for her life, thinking His anger has flared

Mother Sita was relieved while Lakshman jumped with joy

Lakshman celebrated Lord Rama for handling the weapon like a toy

Not even three hours went, they heard a tumultuous sound

They saw agitated birds and dust, arising from the far off ground

They heard sounds of drums, trumpets, and conches

Sounds made by an army, while, an attack it launches

The warrior Brothers knew, it was time for a war

They quickly got ready, while the enemy was still afar

It was decided; Lakshman would guard Mother Sita in a nearby cave

While Lord Rama would cause in the enemy’s army a devastating wave

About Lord Rama single handedly fighting, Mother Sita was hesitant

Lord Rama reassured Her with a smile, saying, “He was not a debutant”

Mother Sita, to a cave in the nearby mountain, Lakshman took

The battle scene from there, They could clearly look

Lord Rama got ready for battle, invoking His anger

Thinking, ‘they will realise, they have never been wronger’

He wore His helmet, armour, and finger guards

Which were given to Him by various gods

He tied to His back, the quiver filled with arrows

He was pained about the many wives’ future sorrows

Worshipping the gods at heart, He lifted the bow

He decided to talk sense to His enemy, though

He walked in the enemy’s direction, and chose a high land

Like a fire awaiting moths, He took a majestic stand

The midday sunlight fell on His armour, and made it shine

Amidst the shady tress, like a second sun, He looked divine

He was like a fire; His fury its heat

He was determined to perform a mighty feat

His eyes and ears were alert, and sharp

His mind was playing the enthusiastic harp

Divine chariots that were beautifully fashioned

In the sky above, by gods from heaven, were stationed

Some rishis stood in the sky and prayed for Lord Rama’s sake

They wished, all the enemies’ heads, Lord Rama must take

The sound made by the enemies became loud

He could see amidst the trees, the enemy crowd

They were rushing towards Him like a swarm of bees

Lord Rama knew He could wipe them with a playful ease

His left hand was holding the bow that stood on the ground

His right hand was kept on His hips that were round

To show that He was ready, His legs were spread

Due to unlimited anger, His lotus like eyes were red

About thirty feet from Him, the army halted

To give way to its leaders, the army parted

To Lord Rama’s view, the three leaders of the army came

They were surprised to see, a single man against an army game

“So You are that Rama, our sister told, who has some weird little skill

With which You can shoot a dozen arrows, within a second, to kill

But now I am afraid, we are by numbers very large

Giving up this stupidity, surrender, before we charge”

The king of Janasthana, Khara, was the one who spoke thus

Trisaras and Dhooshana were on his sides, with an angry focus

Trisaras had three heads, like cauliflowers, as his name indicates

Looking at them with pity, Lord Rama spoke His vindicates

“Underestimating the enemy is not good for health, dear friend

Instead of coursing your sister’s path, why don’t we change the trend?

She behaved badly, paid no heed to Our words, and so got punished

If only you could realise this and go back, the matter is finished”

Instead, if you try to attack me, thinking I am alone

Even before you realise, your lives will long be gone

A thousand ants joining, doesn’t help them eat an ember

Do not dream of victory, just because you’re large in number”

Lord Rama spoke thus, in a very confident tone

The enemies, like animals, started to loudly groan

Without speaking anything more, an attack, they launched

The weapons that flew towards Him, Lord Rama staunched

Lord Rama spent some time defending Himself, hurting none

He kept cutting off all the flying weapons, as if it were fun

The army started to charge furiously towards Him

Seeing that, to hurt them now, Lord Rama got a whim

He kept cutting the weapons only to show

That He can shoot unlimited arrows in a row

He hoped, at least by seeing that, they would realise his might

But on seeing them charge, He decided to engage in a violent fight

Lord Rama sent a deluge of arrows as if showering a rain

Those arrows made the army’s spirits and numbers drain

They threw weapon after weapon, yelling their hatred, all in vain

Limbs severed, throats cut, and hearts pierced, they all cried in pain

Lord Rama was so fast that for every single weapon thrown

He retaliated with two swift and sharp arrows of His own

One, to encounter the weapon, and another, to hurt its wielder

Both found their marks and stressed, ‘their Lord is not a yielder’

Among the thousands of weapons, a few, on Lord Rama, did hit

Though they caused wounds and bitter pain, He never minded it

Along with the pain, His anger and alertness started to grow

Lord Rama started to send more arrows, knitting His hairy brow

To wipe the blood from His wound, He did not try

He made two, four, six, and eight arrows angrily fly

Covered completely by blood, Lord Rama was a sight, to look

None of His arrows missed their marks, and each a life, they took

A sharp arrow shot by Khara made Lord Rama’s bow break

Khara rejoiced thinking, ‘Lord Rama’s life was now for his to take’

But Lord Rama playfully smiling at Khara extended His hand

In it appeared a mighty bow, well decorated, and very grand

Three, five, and seven arrows, at a time, Lord Rama shot

Charged with mantras of fire, they were all red and hot

Four, eight, and twelve arrows, at a time, Lord Rama sent

Powered by Kandharva mantra, multiplying themselves, they went

The fire-charged arrows entered into bodies like hot iron rods

The Kandharva arrows split up bodies, and made them open pods

The fire-charged arrows drank blood and hissed like venomous snakes

The enemies’ lives, for the Kandharva arrows, were for generous takes

The enemies fought with physical strength that was brutal

Lord Rama fought with spiritual power that was immortal

Not a hundred, nor a thousand, but fourteen thousand men when numbered

Were all fallen to the ground, either killed, or their vital parts dismembered

Khara, Dhooshana, and Trisaras now realised what is frustration

This was the first time they saw, their army in utter devastation

They thought, ‘going back to their women would be any more shame’

Wanting either victory or death, towards Lord Rama, they swiftly came

Lord Rama cut one of Trisaras heads as if it were an apple

Shooting at Dhushana’s chariot, Lord Rama made him topple

Yet they rushed towards Lord Rama with maces, uttering angry words

Lord Rama swiftly pierced their hearts, and made their souls free birds

Khara was now alone in fear, and anger, completely shaken

By his army and his commanders, he was now forsaken

His chariot rushed towards Lord Rama, yet

Soon, soaked in his own blood, he was wet

At Lord Rama's mighty chest, Khara aimed and threw a spear
Lord Rama cut it into two before it could come any near
Lord Rama sent an arrow and Khara's chariot's axle broke
Khara fell headlong, like and along, with his domination's yoke

Though completely defeated, not wanting to give up, still
Khara uprooted a tree hoping, Lord Rama, to kill
Lord Rama sliced the tree into pieces within a spell
Disappointed and in rage, Khara started to yell

Not wanting to delay anymore, Lord Rama cut off his head

On the ground, along with his soldiers, Khara sadly fell dead

Lord Rama saw one man run, taking the news somewhere

He did not try to hurt the man, as He thought it was unfair

Lakshman and Mother Sita, from the cave, came running

Hugging both of Them, Lord Rama rejoiced His winning

Mother Sita shed tears on seeing Lord Rama’s wounds bleed

She wiped them clean, and applied a paste made of turmeric seed

The Gods from above showered flowers on Ram

The Gandharvas with music sang praises of Ram

The Rishis were glad and relieved, by the victory of Ram

In a chorus they sang, “Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!”

An offender forgiven

A crow flew down, and hit on Mother Sita’s face

Mother Sita waved a stick, at the crow, to chase

The stick She waved, it quickly dodged

Its beak into Her chest, it cruelly lodged

Though it pained, to cry, She did not raise Her voice

Disturbing Her husband’s sleep, on Her lap, was not a choice

The crow hit on Her, again and again

Mother Sita suffered abominable pain

She did not cry or shout, though She was incensed

Something bad happening to Her, Lord Rama sensed

He opened His eyes, and saw the unlawful crow

With tremendous fury and pain, He knit His brow

As He did not have with Him, His arrows and bow

He looked around for something heavy, to throw

Seeing nothing that could hurt, He plucked a grass

He held it like a weapon that was made of iron and brass

Into it the destructive Brahma mantra, He efficiently chanted

To come back with the crow’s life, His permission, He granted

The Brahmaastra- grass flew like a missile, spitting fire

Seeing danger at stake and fearing for life, the crow flew higher

The crow was actually Jayanthan, Indra’s son

Taking his true form, He started to run

He ran to heaven, and fell at his father’s feet

Not as a son, but even as a guest, Indra refused to treat

Again, becoming a crow, to Kailash he went

Shiva refused to help, wanting him to repent

From there, to surrender, to the creator Brahma he went

Only to realise, even on Brahma he could not depend

Realising no one would protect him from Lord Rama’s anger

He kept his head at The Lord’s Feet without delaying longer

The merciful Lord wanted to give Him complete protection

But it was too late for any such consideration or reflection

“Brahmaastra’s power cannot be nullified but can be reduced

The folly in torturing others, I hope you have deduced

Your left eye to the Brahmaastra, you must give

Giving up anarchic ways and misdeeds, you must live”

Jayanthan fell once again at The Lord’s Feet and apologized for his madness

Standing up once again to his height, he started singing The Lord’s Greatness

Along with his tears, his gratitude profusely flowed

Though his left eye was damaged by the grass that glowed

“Rama! Rama! Rama! Greatest Lord!

Though in human garb, I realise, You are God

Being the source of riches, like a mendicant, how could You be?

My fortune, not misfortune, has brought me to Thee!

Giving up my ego and shame, I beg Your love

Unlimited devotion unto Your feet, please bestow

I fall at Your Feet, wanting to be completely cleansed

For, from a devotee of Thy Feet, temptation is fenced

Never again must I err in my life

Never again must I look another’s wife

Though, the love of Your life, Mother Sita, I have offended

Me, from Your anger, You Yourself have defended

Both to Your might, and to Your mercy, I have been a witness

By which I have regained my mental sanity, and moral fitness

The loss I suffered is only a small fee

As from all future sins, I am free

Oh, Handsome One! The One with a heart, beautiful like a blossom

For every creature on this earth, there is a place in Your bosom

Only the lucky ones encounter You, with a good or bad intention

As they are released from all sins, once they get Your attention

You are unlimited love! You are all that is good!

For wisdom to grow, Your thought is food

You are the One, who has all the might!

You are the One, who is always right!

Forgive me, Lord, for all my sins, and accept me

Last in the queue of all Your devotees, let me be!”

Saying thus, Jayanthan fell at the Feet of Ram

Gratefully and truthfully saying, “Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!”

Happy days in Panchavati

Lord Rama, Mother Sita and Lakshman had walked for days, three

Though they had walked so long, from fatigue, they were free

For, in the past ten years, they had become tough

Due to the ten year pilgrimage, a process very rough

They had crossed mountains, and were now walking on plain land

On their way, suddenly, The Noble Three saw a huge creature stand

The warrior Brothers’ grip on their strong bows tightened

But when they heard the creature talk, their hearts lightened

“I do not eat human flesh; You need not worry or fear

No human has wanted to hold against me, his angry spear

Tell me youthful people, Your names and native place

I am neither a weakling nor Your enemy for You to chase”

The Noble Three were surprised on seeing that talking creature

Lord Rama admired, in its talk, the brave and friendly feature

The Noble Three walked closer towards the king size vulture

Wondering how a bird could talk like it was from human culture

They introduced themselves, and told about their native place

They noticed the old bird’s face showed a delightful trace

“Ram!” It exclaimed. “How is Dasaratha, my friend and Your father?”

Saying thus, it became silent as its memories had traveled back farther

Lord Rama’s face fell, reminded of the death of his dad

The vulture could not get why Lord Rama became sad

Lakshman told the vulture about the king’s demise

The vulture was pained as if, under a crushing device

“Oh! Dasaratha! My good old friend!

Why did your life, so soon, have to end?

Green are the memories when we both roamed the world

I stayed away from you, only to allow you rule the world

Why did you go to heaven, leaving me

Without you in this world, how could I be?

Already my beloved brother Sampathi, I have lost

Now you too have left me alone and gone very fast

With no one to love me, why must I be alive

Tying my wings, from a mountain, I am going to dive”

Saying thus, the vulture cried for long, and got ready to fly

But Lord Rama stopped him before he could rise too high

“Live for us, uncle! We Three have none but you alone

What would we do, if you too go, leaving us alone?

I am so happy to see you, for you love my father so much

The one, who would die at a friend’s death, though not in touch

As though I am seeing my father, I am delighted at your sight

Be with us as an elderly guardian, and give us some respite

Please don’t think you have none; We are here, and We are yours

On seeing you, the wound from My dad’s death, in My heart cures”

By the sincere words of Lord Rama, the vulture felt embraced

To stay in that place, guarding The Three, the vulture’s mind braced

He introduced himself as Jatayu, the son of Aruna, sun god’s charioteer

Being Dasaratha’s children, to guard Them, he was a happy volunteer

The Noble Three decided to stay there choosing a suitable place nearby

Lakshman built an ashram asking The Divine Couple to simply stand by

He built the ashram, better than he did in Chitrakut, so beautifully

He meticulously cared for even the minutest details, so dutifully

The ashram was located at the heart of a place of plenty

Fruit bearing trees stood at a distance, by feet, just twenty

Nearby ran a river providing sweet water for their basic needs

They settled in the ashram, doing both spiritual and fun filled deeds

Lord Rama and Lakshman worshipped the sun without fail

The deities in the ashram, Mother Sita worshipped to hail

On specific days on the lunar calendar, they spent in fasting

For spiritual and material wellbeing as well as happiness, everlasting

On other days, they also had a lot of fun

To enjoy lives like them, there was none

They took long walks in the beautiful surrounding

Witnessing animals and birds that were astounding

They heard stories of the yore, through Jatayu’s narration

He brought to life, those days, with his act and animation

To go back to Ayodhya, after the exile term, they were eager

But the sorrow, due to separation and death, was now meager

They played little games for their hearts’ gladdening

To make time useful and for food, they did some gardening

Though in jungle, Their life was truly rich and wealthy

They did meditation and yoga, to keep Themselves healthy

Once, The Noble Three went to the nearby river to swim

Due to recent rains, the river was flowing brisk and brim

Mother Sita challenged Lord Rama in a swimming race

She said She could swim faster as She was an expert and ace

Lord Rama warned Her of defeat, but She would not budge

Lakshman was made to sit on a rock, to be a good judge

Once Lakshman clapped, The Divine Couple dived

To touch the other shore, and come back first, They strived

Lord Rama touched the other shore, and He came back fast

But He thought He would feel guilty, if His Wife came last

Splashing the waters, He pretended as if He was swimming

Mother Sita overtook Him quickly, and rejoiced Her winning

To keep it natural, He followed Her fast, and close behind

And complained, She had tricked, and the race must be rewind

The Noble Three laughed, but each, for different reasons

Time went like this happily, showing its different seasons

Days went by giving Them delight after delight

Months went by without any bickering or fight

Giving happiness as offering, time went by, serving Ram

As if it worshipped Him by saying, “Jai Shri Ram! Jai Jai Shri Ram!!”