|| Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram ||

 

Chapter – 3 – Lanka Kandam

 

The powerful Ramabana crumples the crown and umbrella of Ravana/ and ear ornaments of Devi Mandodhari

 

Ravana could not control his anger against Prahastha, shriek out “Oh! Dull-minded, who taught you this idea? Oh! Puthra, you have false notions, you are creeper on the powerful tree.” Prahastha and Ravana had arguments for quite some time, finally, he returned to his fortress saying that “The medicine won’t work to a person who is destined to die. Hence, my promising words will not work for your welfare.” It was in the evening hours; he took great pride in his powerful twenty arms and returned to the palace. There was a beautiful open terrace in the palace where music and dance programs were conducted, Ravana seated on a marvelous throne in the entertainment hall, Kinnaras sang in praise of him, the celestial Apsaras beautifully danced to the tunes of various musical instruments. Ravana took great pleasure as hundreds of Indra, even though he was under the threat of enemy; it did not bother him at all.

 

Rama with the huge armies of Vanaras and bears settled in the Mount Suvela. Lakshman constructed a beautiful hermitage on a lush green raised land, seats were decorated with the leaves and flowers covered with the skin of deer. Prabhu seated on that beautiful raised seat, he kept the bow and arrows on his left and right and kept his head on the lap of Sugreeva. Vibheeshana whispered something on the ears of Prabhu.  The highly fortunate Angadha and Hanuman were massaging the feet of Prabhu. Lakshman was all prepared with his bow and arrow.  Whoever contemplates upon this divine form of Rama, are fortunate ones. Prabhu looked at the moon and spoke “Look at the moon, he is magnificent as Mrigaraja. He is powerful and lustrous as a lion pierces the forehead of untamed elephant-like darkness, and majestically explores through the woods. Look at that sparkling stars resembles scattered pearls adorn the beautiful woman like a night on the sky. Oh! Brother, what did you think of the dark part of the Chandra?” Sugriva speaks “Oh ! Raghurama, it is just a mirror image of Earth on it” another one said “It is the stain that caused by Rahu”  and another one said, “It is because Lord Bhrama took the lustrous portion of Chandra to add up the beauty of Devi Rathi.” Prabhu spoke, “Listen, poison is the companion of Chandra, that’s why he stored it in his heart; he tortures the lovers who are separated from their beloved companions.” Hanuman spoke “Oh! Prabhu, Chandra is your sincere servant, he is installed your image in his heart, it shows darkness in him.” The Supreme Lord who is Sarvajja laughed at the words of Hanuman. Rama spoke “Oh! Vibheeshana, look at the southern part of the sky, the clouds are heavy, and lightning and thunder have begun, there will be heavy downpour and wind”. Vibheeshana replied “Oh! Prabho, Oh! Kripalu, listen there are no rain clouds or lightning. There is an open terrace on the top of the palace of Lanka, there will be regular dances and music conducted to take pleasure in it for Ravana.  He is seated on the grand terrace and taking pleasure in the music and dance, and the umbrella on top of his head gives out the appearance of dark clouds, it is the ear ornaments of Devi Mandodhari gives out the appearance of lightning, Oh! Devaraja, it is the sound of musical instruments resembles the thunder.” Prabhu smiled at the stately pleasure of Ravana, stretched an arrow aiming those object, with the single shot of arrow, it crumbled the umbrella, the crown of Ravana, and the ear ornaments of Devi Mandodhari before that assembly, it created huge chaos in the assembly. But none of them realized that it was Ramabana, after finishing the task the Ramabana returned to its shell.

 

There was no earthquake or hurricane, there was no Astra or Shatra, the people assembled were devastated, felt it as a bad omen. Ravana watched the guests are scared, he laughed out and spoke: “ It is nothing to worry about, do not get panic, all of you go back to your homes and sleep well.” They all returned to their homes, Devi Mandodhari could not keep herself calm, the moment her ear ornament crumpled in the assembly, she could not control her heartbeat, her eyes filled with tears with folded hands she spoke “Oh! Prananatha, kindly listen to me, kindly leave your enmity with Rama, and do not miscalculate him as an ordinary human. Kindly, believe me, he is supreme Lord assumed the form of Raghukulathilaka, the Veda eulogizes his body parts contributes the Universe, his feet represents Patal Loka, his head is the abode of Bhrama, all his Indiriyas/sense organs represents the abode of deities, the movement of his eyebrows represents Kala, his eyes are Surya and Chandra respectively, his hair represents the clouds, Ashwini Kumaras are his nostrils, the blink of his eyes constitutes day and night, his ears represents ten directions. The wind represents his breath, his speech represents Veda, the upper lip represents Lobha, his sharp teeth represent Yama, Maya is his smile, his hands represents ten directions, his face represents Agni, tongue represent Varuna, his movements represents Shrishti – Sthithi and Laya, the hairs on stomach represent the eighteen types of plants in general, his bone represents mountain, veins represent rivers, his stomach represents the ocean, and anus is Badavagni.  Shortly, his entire limb constitutes the Universe. Lord Shiva represents Ahamkara, Lord Bhrama represents wisdom, Chandra represents mind, and Lord Vishnu is intellect. He is Lord of living and non-living things incarnated as Rama. Oh! Prananatha, kindly listen to my words, kindly leave your enmity to that supreme Lord and take shelter at his lotus feet, so that it would protect me from the ill fortune of widowhood.”

 

Ravana laughed boisterously “ The influence of Moha and Maya is so powerful, women are the storehouse of Maya, Bhaya, Aviveka, Ashuchi, Nirdhaya, Sahasa, Asathyam, Chapala, like eight impurities. You have described the Vishwaroopa of my enemy, Oh! Priye, all those forms are under my control, I have heard everything from you, and I also understood my mastery over it. Oh! Mriganayani, you are highly confidential, if it was heard properly it would provide happiness, and free the individual from fear and trepidations.” Mandodhari understood the nearness of his death caused hallucination to him.

|| Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram ||

 

Chapter – 2 – Lanka Kandam

The advice of Devi Mandodhari and Prahastha to Ravana

The woods were loaded with flowers and fruits in all seasons in the presence of Lord Rama. These Vanaras and bears consumed succulent fruits and uprooted the trees and mountains, thrown to the city of Lanka. If they meet any demons in the woods, they cut off their ears and nose, sing in praise of Prabhu Ramachandra and send him back to the city. In this way, many demons were disfigured were approached Ravana and informed the arrival of Rama with the huge armies of Vanaras and bears, they have constructed a huge bridge across the vast ocean, etc. Ravana became agitated and spoke is deafening voice, “What? Those Vanaras and bears constructed a bridge across the vast ocean? Is that true he constructed bridge on that Samudradevatha?” he laughed and returned to his palace. Devi Mandodhari understood Prabhu Ramachandra constructed a huge bridge across the ocean like child’s play, she terrified and took her husband to her chamber, prostrated before him and spoke affectionately, “Oh! Natha, kindly do not get angry with me, you cannot have enmity with a person who is extremely powerful and intelligent. Raghupathi and you have huge differences, he is Surya and you are a firefly before him. Rama is the slayer of the powerful demons Hiranyakashipu and Hiranyaksha, Madhukaitabha, who are the sons of Dithi, he fastened Bali with his intellect, he killed Sahasrabhahu, he has personified on the Earth to reduce her burden. Oh! My Lord, he is the Lord of Kala, Time, and destiny, do not keep enmity with him. Kindly take shelter at the lotus feet of Rama, and return Devi Janaki to him, leave the Kingdom to your sons and go to woods and contemplate upon that Lord Raghunatha. Oh! Prabho, Lord Rama is extremely compassionate, no one will go behind to attack a compassionate person, not even a leopard, and you have attained all the stately luxuries in your life. You have won over Deva, Asura, and all the living and non-living things in this world. Oh! Lord, the saintly people suggests, it is the responsibility of an individual to follow Ashrama Dharma and leave to the forest in the latter years of age, Oh! Natha, you have to contemplate upon that Lord who is the creator, preserve, and destructor of the Universe and its living beings. Oh! Lord, kindly leave all your interest in worldly matters and take shelter at the compassionate Lord Raghunatha. He is Kosalaraja Raghupathi who is sought after by Rishis and Sages with constant meditation and contemplation, even the Emperors leave their throne and follow renunciation to attains that supreme Lord Raghurama, he has arrived to shower his grace upon us. Oh! Natha, if you follow my advice, your fame would spread in three worlds.”

 

Mandodhari prostrated before Ravana and took hold of his feet, shed tears and her body was quivering, and began to speak “Oh! Natha, kindly meditate upon Raghunatha, so that my relationship with you would flourish.” Ravana took hold of Mandodhari, he began self-praising “Oh! Priye, your fear is baseless, who is powerful than me in this world? I have shown my prowess to all the deities, I have conquered Varuna, Dikpalaka, Vayu, Yama and all. These deities, Asuras, and humans are under my control, why are you so scared of him?” In this way, he pacified Devi Mandodhari and returned to the assembly. Devi Mandodhari understood that it was his destiny that took control of his intellect; no one can save him from the mouth of death. Ravana enquired his ministers “How did we tackle our enemies?” Ministers speak “ Oh! Prabho, listen to me, why are you asking this question repeatedly? Why should we fear of Raghuram? Manushyas, Vanaras, and bears are our meals.”

 

Prahastha spoke with folded hands “ Oh! Prabho, you should not do anything against justice, your ministers have not much knowledge about it. All your ministers are dull-minded always speaks which pleases you. Oh! Lord that would not bring any good to you. The Vanaras crossed the vast ocean and arrived in the city. All the people are praising the valor of that Vanara who burned down the city of Lanka, why you did not feel hungry to eat him while he was burning the city? What was the reason to spare him while he was burning the entire city? Oh! Lord, your minister’s advice may be pleasing to listen but that cannot help you at this moment of perils, it would throw you into trouble. Rama and Lakshman have constructed a huge bridge across the vast ocean like a child’s play, and settled on the hills of Suvela, with a huge army of Vanaras and bears, do you think they are ordinary humans and easy to consume? These ministers are uttering something unreasonable, Oh! Pitha, kindly listen to me, do not consider me as a coward, there are many people who talk and speak pleasant words, but there are very few speak the truth but unpleasant to listen. Kindly listen to my most promising words to you, kindly send an emissary to Rama, further send Devi Sita to him and keep friendship with him. If Rama returns with his wife to his Kingdom, there is no need to have enmity or battle with him, otherwise, fight against him on the battlefield. If you follow my advice, you will attain fame in this world and afterlife on the Earth as well.”

|| Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram ||

 

Chapter – 1 – Lanka Kandam

 

The construction of a huge bridge across the ocean/Rama arrives on the Mount Suvela

Prarthana Shloka :

 Ramam Kamarisevyam Bhavabhayaharanam Kalamaththebhasimham | Yogeendram Gnanagamyam Gunanidhimajitham Nirgunam Nirvikaram | Mayatheetham Suresham Khalavadhaniratham Bhramavrindhaika Devam | Vandhe Kandhavadhatham Sarasijanayanam Devamurveesharoopam ||

 

Shankhendhvabham Atheevasundarathanum Shardhoola Charmabaram | Kalavyala Karala Bhooshanadharam Gangashashanka Priyam | Kasheesham Kalkalmalashaugha Shamanam Kalyana Kalpadhrumam | Naumeedyam Girijapathim Gunanidhim Kandharpaham Shankaram ||

 

Yo Dhadhathi Satham Shambhu: Kaivalyamapi Dhurllabham | Khalanam Dhandakridhyoasau Shankara: Sham Thanothu Mey ||

 

I shall prostrate before supreme Lord Rama who is worshiped by Kamari/enemy of Lord Manmatha, he is the destroyer of fears and anxieties of worldly existence, he is the essence of 'Time' resembles lion to the untamed elephant, he is Yogeendra who is the essence of supreme wisdom and knowledge, he is the storehouse of virtues, he is unconquerable, he is void of Thriguna, and impassionate, he is beyond Maya, he is Lord of Lords, he is the destroyer of wicked people and protector of twice-born, he is surrounded by Lord Bhrama and deities, I shall meditate upon that supreme Lord Rama who has the complexion of dark clouds has attractive features, and beautiful eyes resemble lotus flower petals, the supreme Lord who incarnated as Bhoopathi.

 

I shall meditate upon supreme Lord Shankara, who is Girijapathi, has the luster of conch and moon, has attractive physical features, attired in the skin of a leopard, adorned in venomous serpent as ornaments all over the body, he is dearest of Ganga and Chandra, he is Lord of Kashi, he is the destroyer of woods like sins in the Kali era, he is the provider of auspiciousness like Kalpavruksha, he is a storehouse of virtues, he is the destroyer of Kandharpa/Kamadeva. The supreme Lord Shankara who is the provider of liberation from repeated births, and destroyer of wicked, kindly bless us with all the auspiciousness.

 

Oh! Mortals, why do not you meditate upon that supreme Lord Rama who is wielded in powerful Kodhanda which represent ‘time’, powerful arrows symbolize Paramanu, Lava, Nimisha, Varsha, Yuga, Kalpa is the component of ‘Time’?

 

Rama after listening to valuable suggestions of Samudradevatha called out for his Ministers and informed “ Oh! Dear ones, do not delay, construct a huge bridge across the ocean, in this way, we can reach on the other side of the ocean.” Jambava with folded hands spoke “Oh! Prabho, Oh! Ramachandra, Oh! Raghukulathilaka, your name itself is the safest ferry to cross the ocean of worldly existence; hence we do not take much time to cross this trivial ocean.” Vayuputhra speaks “Oh! Prabho, your splendor is Badavagni/forest fire that could dry up the ocean water which has filled with the tears of the wives of your enemies, that is why it tastes salty.” All those Vanaras felt immensely pleased with the words of Hanuman and admiringly looked at Raghava. Jambava called for two Vanara brothers Nala and Neela, instructed them to begin the construction of bridge contemplating upon Lord Rama. He called out for the huge Vanarasena and spoke “Oh! Vanaras and bears, kindly listen to my request, contemplate upon the lotus feet of Ramachandra and begin the construction of the bridge in pleasure, Oh! Vikatavanarans go in groups and bring huge trees and mountains to deposit into the ocean.” The Vanaras and bears cheered “Victory to Ramachandra” and enthusiastically scattered to all directions.

 

The Vanaras and bears uprooted huge trees and mountains like a sport and gave to Nala and Neela, and they began to construct the bridge across the ocean. The huge trees offered in the hands of Nala and Neela held it as a ball, the supreme Lord Kripanidhi, smiled looking at the beautiful construction of the bridge “This place is most beautiful, and has a great history, cannot describe in words, I will install a Shivalinga in this sacred land, I sincerely wish to conduct the worship of Lord Mahadeva.” Vanararaja called for few of the Vanaras and informed the wish of Raghupathi, they have invited all the ascetics and Rishis, and consecrated a Shiva Linga and began the worship. Rama spoke “ I have no one dear like Lord Shiva, whoever discard the worship of Lord Shiva and address themselves as the devotees of mine, could not approach me not even in their dreams. The dull-minded people discard the worship of Lord Shankara and devoted me, will push to hell. The people who are enemies of Lord Shankara and worships me and vice versa would reside in the hell for a Kalpa. Whoever visits the sacred shrine of Rameshwara would attain my abode after leaving their mortal coil. Whoever performs ablution on the Linga with the waters of sacred Ganga would attain Sayoojya Mukthi in me. Whoever worships Lord Shanka without any personal motive or desires would attain intense devotion in me. Whoever witnesses the grand bridge constructed by me would cross the ocean of worldly existence effortlessly.” All the sages and Rishis assembled were extremely happy to listen to Prabhu and returned to their hermitage.

 

Lord Shankara speaks “Oh! Girija, Lord Rama will not abandon his devotees who are surrendered at his lotus feet, the highly intelligent Nala and Neela finished the construction of the vast bridge across the ocean, thus their fame spread across the whole world, all those trees and stones shoved in the oceans were floated and stood like a bride across the ocean, resembled a huge pass. Oh! Devi, it was not the efficiency of Kapis, or stones or the ocean, it was the grace of Prabhu caused the stone to float on the ocean. It was the splendor of Raghuveera all those stones shoved to the ocean were floated, therefore whoever worships deities other than Rama, are dull-minded. Thus the construction of the bridge was completed and they ensured the safety of it, the huge armies of Vanara moved forward enthusiastically producing boisterous voice, Rama stood on the bridge and looked around the vast ocean, all those aquatic animals rushed to the surface to get a look of that Prabhu, there was numerous water animals, alligators, numerous species, different colors and sizes of fishes and serpents. They all looked at Prabhu and in standstill; therefore the watercolor was not visible. The armies of Vanaras and bears moved forwarded after receiving the instruction from the Prabhu. There was a huge crowd on the bridge, some of the Vanaras took skyways, and some of them proceeded on waterways. Rama and Lakshmana looked at the funniest acts of these Vanaras and bears and laughed out. Thus Rama along with Lakshman and huge armies arrived on the other side of the shore; it was difficult to describe the huge armies of Rama. They have settled in a beautiful forest and Prabhu instructed the Vanaras and bears to remove their hunger, immediately they darted to the nearby woods and consumed fruits at their heart's content, and began to uproot the trees."

||Sri Ram Jeyram Jai Jai Ram||

Chapter – 12 – Sundara Kandam

 The concluding part of Sundara Kandam/Samudradevatha takes shelter at Rama

The demons began to speak “Oh! Prabho, you have questioned us delightfully, kindly listen to our answers without getting angry with us. Prabhu Rama adorned the vermilion and sandalwood paste on the forehead of Vibheeshana and accepted him as a sincere attendant. The Vanaras realized that we are the spies from Lanka, they fastened us and troubled us, prepared to cut off our nose and ears. We begged them to release us, finally, Lakshman felt pity for us and freed us.  Oh! Prabho, you have asked about the strength of armies of Rama, it is impossible to describe with the thousands of tongue. There were huge armies of Vanaras and bears, in large numbers in different sizes and appearances. The Vanara who killed your son Akshakumara and set fire to Lanka was the weakest one among the Vanaras. These Vanaras and bears possessed immense might and have the size of the elephant. There are Dhvividha, Maindha, Neela, Nala, Angadha, Gadha, Vikatasya, Dhadhimukha, Kesari,  Nishada, Shada, powerful Jambavan are among them, they are equivalent to Sugriva, there were crores of these types of Vanaras are impossible to count. These Vanaras and bears are extremely powerful, consider three worlds as grass. The chief of Vanaras is one lakh and eight thousand, not to mention their armies, and all are capable to conquer you in the war. These Vanaras are extremely fierce waiting to receive the order from Prabhu Ram. These Vanaras are all prepared saying “We will dry up the ocean, eat those giant aquatic animals, we will fill the ocean with the huge mountains, and destroy Dhashamukha.” These Varanars are fearless in nature, produce deafening voices, and are ready to swallow the city of Lanka. These Vanaras and bears are born warriors, and Prabhu Rama is the leader of them. Oh! Ravan, these Vanaras and bears can conquer even the crores of Yama in the battlefield. It is impossible to describe the prowess and effulgence of Rama, not for the hundred crores of thousand tongued Adhishesha. He has the prowess to dry up the hundreds of ocean with a single shot of an arrow. He is humble and gentle as well, he sought the advice of your brother, and accordingly, he requested the ocean to leave pathway to cross the ocean.”

Ravana laughed boisterously,  “Rama sought the advice of my brother who is dull-minded and coward by birth, that’s the reason he has Vanaras and bears as his armies. He approached the ocean requesting to leave pathways, that’s impossible to happen. Oh! Fool, why are you praising my enemies? I have thoroughly measured their intellect and prowess. Whoever accepts Vibheeshana as his minister won’t achieve success or fame in this world.” The spies of Ravana have got annoyed, offered the written message of Lakshman.  Ravana laughed out and received it in the left hand, he called out for a minister and asked him to read it loudly. The message was “Oh! fool, do not indulge yourself in self-praising, and put your entire clan in danger. If you keep enmity against the supreme Lord Ramachandra, you cannot attain the protection from Lord Bhrama, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Maheshwara. Therefore, leave your pride, and take shelter at the lotus feet of Prabhu, like a bee, as brother Vibheeshana. Oh! Wicked,  you will be destroyed with all your clan like fireflies in the wildfire of Ramabana, if you are not willing to take shelter at the lotus feet of Ramachandra.”

 

The message was really hit hard on Ravana, but he pretended as calm and powerful, with a smile loudly spoke “The expertise in the words of the younger brother of Rama is like the weak person on the Earth tries to get hold of the sky.” Shuka spoke “Oh! Prabho, leave your anger and kindly consider those words as true, kindly leave your pride and take shelter at the lotus feet of Rama. Do not keep enmity with Rama, he is the commander of the Universe and its living beings, he is extremely compassionate. He would forget all your sins and forgive you if you meet him in person; he will not consider your mistakes as a serious one, kindly give back Devi Janaki to Rama. Oh! Prabho, kindly accept my sincere request.” Ravana gave a hard kick on Shukha, he prostrated before Ravana and returned to the Supreme Lord Rama. Further, Shuka described all that happened with Ravana, thus he got removed from the curse and has attained his original form as Maharishi.

 

Lord Mahadeva speaks “Oh! Parvathi, Shuka was a Maharishi in his previous birth, due to the curse of Sage Agasthya he has attained the form of a demon. Maharishi repeatedly prostrated before Rama and returned to his hermitage.” It was three days over, Rama’s prayers to Sagara were ignored, and Rama got annoyed of his act. Rama instructed Lakshman “Oh! Lakshman, bring my bow and arrows; I will destroy the ocean with the Agneya Astra. It is not advisable to show humility to a dull-minded, it is dangerous to keep friendship with a deceitful person, it is waste to speak about charity to a miser, it is  unwise to speak about Paramarththa to Samsari who is soaked in worldly matters, it is not advisable to speak Virakthi to a Lobhi, it is useless to speak about control of senses to a person who is angry, it is inappropriate to speak about Harikatha to a lustful person, these are like sowing seeds on the barren lands.” Raghupathi stretched the bow with an arrow on it produced a huge noise, Lakshmana became happy while watching there was a huge fire that appeared in the ocean, which disturbed the life of giant aquatic animals, eventually, they have created huge chaos. The Samudradevatha was terrified, appeared in the form of a twice-born holding a tray full of various precious gems. Sage Kakabhushundi says “Oh! Garuda, a dull-minded and arrogant, cannot understand things easily.”

 

The Samudra Devatha prostrated before Prabhu and spoke “Oh! Prabho, kindly forgives all my mistakes. The scripture says that sky, water, Agni, Air, and Earth are Jada/lifeless in nature; it was created with the influence of your Maya. You have taught me a good lesson to follow your command. Oh! Prabho, you have immense prowess to dries up the ocean, and you can easily cross the ocean, but that won’t be promising to me. Oh! Prabho, Kindly do as you wish.” Rama smiled at him pleasantly and spoke “Oh! Thatha, kindly advise me how could we reach the other side of the ocean?” The Samudradevatha spoke “Oh! Prabho, there are two Vanaras Nala, and Neela who has attained a boon from Maharishi during their childhood, with the grace of you, if they hoist the huge mountains and deposit in the ocean water would float. Oh! Prabho, I will do all that required with your compassionate grace. Oh! Prabho, build a bridge across the ocean, that would be praised by all, everyone will eulogize your splendor in the three worlds. You can cross the ocean effortlessly, and destroy those sinful wicked demons with your powerful arrows.” Rama who is skilled in war fields and extremely compassionate removed the qualms of the Samudradevatha. The king of the ocean felt extremely happy to watch the prowess and courage of Rama, he described the atrocities of the demons, prostrated before Rama, and left to his abode. Thus the idea of Lakshman to fasten Samudradevatha was felt appropriate to Rama.

 

Whoever listens to this glorious legend of Rama which destroys the Kalimala was sung by Tulsidas. The legend of Raghurama describes the splendor and virtues are the abode of happiness, it removes all the false apprehensions, and it removes the grief and sufferings of the worldly existence as well. Oh! Dull minded mortals, leave your interest in worldly matters and false beliefs, constantly sing in praise of him and listen to his glorious legends.  The singing and listening to the splendor of Raghurama with intense faith and devotion would provide all kinds of auspiciousness, and the worshiper would cross the ocean of worldly existence effortlessly.

 

|| Ithi Srimadh Ramacharithamanase Sakalakali Kalusha Vidhwamsane Panchama: Sopana: Samaptha: ||

 

||Sri Ram Jeyram Jai Jai Ram||

Chapter – 11 – Sundara Kandam

Rama approaches the ocean King Sagara/spies of Ravana advises him to take shelter at the lotus feet of Rama

Lord Rama speaks “Oh! Sakha, listen to me, Sage Kakabhushundi, Lord Parameshwara, and Goddess Girija know about me very well. If a person who performs all those atrocities and harass the three worlds, take shelter at my feet leaving all those immoral deeds, Madham, Moham, Ashcharya, wickedness, etc., I will not abandon him. The worldly bondages are like threads, are attachments to parents, relatives, wife, children, companions, wealth, body, fame, etc. a noble soul who intertwine them as a single thread and take shelter in me, he considers everyone as the same, understands the all-pervasive nature of me, does not yearn for personal gain, and his mind and intellects are free from trepidations, anxieties, fears, etc, these kinds of people are dear to me resides in my heart, like a Lobhi yearns wealth. Oh! Vibheeshana, people like you are dear to me, I have incarnated on the Earth for the people like you. Oh! Sakha, whoever worships my Sagunaroopa, always do good for others, righteous, truthful, perform austerities, stick to their promises, and highly devoted to Bhramins are dear as my life. Oh! Lankesha, you have all those virtues in you. Therefore you are dear as my life.” All the Vanaras assembled were extremely happy listening to the compassionate words of Prabhu.

The Vanaras assembled cheered “Hail Sriramachandra”, Vibheeshana could not control his emotions, he fell at the feet of Prabhu, his heart was yearning to hear more and more nectar-like words of Prabhu, he transported to a state of bliss, felt like his heart is going to explode in any moment with the happiness and he repeatedly prostrated before Prabhu and spoke “Oh! Prabho, Pranatharthiharin, Oh! Lord of living non-living things, Oh! Knower of all, all my impurities have washed off with the touch of your feet, the water from the pond of Bhakti washed off all my impurities, Oh! Kripalu, kindly give intense devotion and faith at your lotus feet, which would please the supreme Lord Shiva.” The Supreme Lord said ‘Let it be’. Ramachandra adorned vermilion and sandalwood paste on Vibheeshana’s forehead, the deities showered flowers upon him.

Raghava protected Vibheeshana, thus he got relieved from the pain of heart-piercing harsh words of Ravana that was burning him alive, and Prabhu showered an abundance of boon on him. Vibheehana became one of the sincere servants of Prabhu, the entire Vanaras felt immensely pleased with the kindness of Prabhu. The Supreme Lord Ramachandra who is all-pervasive, omniscient, impassionate, unblemished, assumes various forms for the welfare of the Universe and its living beings, began to speak affectionately “Oh! Kapeesha, Oh! Valorous Lankapathi, listen to me, how did we cross this vast ocean of dangerous aquatic animal?” Vibheeshana speaks “Oh! Raghunayaka, your powerful arrows are capable of dries up the ocean, but it is fair to ask permission from the King of the ocean, to leave the pathway to Lanka. Oh! Prabho, the King Sagara born in the illustrious Surya clan, is the deity of the ocean. If you discuss with him he would provide an appropriate suggestion before you, so that all the Vanaras and bears can cross the ocean effortlessly.” Rama said “Oh! Sakha, you have put forward an appropriate suggestion. We will see that it works or not.” Lakshmana was not happy at the decision of Prabhu, he was not willing for a peace treaty with the King of Sagara, he wanted Prabhu to dry up the entire ocean, Sri Ramachandra pacified his brother and approached the shores of Sagara. He prostrated before the ocean, spread a Dharbha mattress, and sat on it.

The moment Vibheeshana left the city of Lanka, Ravan appointed a few of his spies to follow Vibheeshana and to find out the details of the enemies. They have assumed the form of Vanaras and heard all those conversations with Prabhu and Vibheeshana, and they heartily praised the kindness and virtues of Sri Ramachandra. They openly praised the humility and benevolence of Prabhu, eventually, they have forgotten their nature as spies of Ravana.    The Vanaras fastened these demons that have disguised as Vanaras and produced before Sugriva who ordered to disfigure them and send back to Lanka. The Vanaras physically and verbally ill-treated the spies of Ravana, they cried out for Lakshman to release them, he felt pity for them eventually all those demons were released at the order of Lakshmana, with a powerful message “ Oh! Demons, tell your King Ravana to return Devi Sita with all respects and keep peace in the city or he has to face his death, pass on this message to your King” The demons are fallen at the feet of Lakshmana, received the written message to deliver to Ravana and praised the splendor of Rama and return to Lanka.

The demons returned to the city of Lanka praising the glories of Rama, they have prostrated before Ravana was enquired with a loud laugh “Oh! Shuka, how are you? Tell me about my brother Vibheeshana who is waiting for his death, that fool has left the stately luxuries of Lanka, he will face his death like worms and tell me about the unfortunate armies of Vanara and bears, it was the ocean stood before them to protect from me. Oh! Shuka, tell me about the Tapasvis, who are frightened of my prowess. Have you met them? Or they have run off after listening to my prowess? Why are you speaking about the enemies and their might? I think you have become insane after witnessing them.”

||Sri Ram Jeyram Jai Jai Ram||

Chapter – 10 – Sundara Kandam

Vibheeshana Sharanagathi

Lord Mahadeva speaks “Oh! Parvathi, whoever disrespects or mistreat the saintly and ascetics, would meet their death miserably. Oh! Parvathi, whoever humiliates righteous, noble, ascetics and saintly men would lose all their happiness and wealth instantly. Ravana became unfortunate the moment he lost the support of righteous Vibheeshana who continued to travel on the skyways with his ministers, contemplating upon that supreme Lord Rama, he immersed in various thoughts “ I will take shelter at that lotus feet of Supreme Lord, which is the source of supreme bliss, it has the color of the red lotus flower, which removed the curse of Devi Ahalya, who is the wife sage Gauthama.   It purified the sinful Dhandakavana, is locked in the heart of Devi Janaki, those lotus feet that chased the Mayamriga, resides in the lotus-like heart of Lord Shambhu. I am an extremely fortunate one, to witness those lotus feet of Rama. I take shelter at those lotus feet, which is the dwelling place of the mind of Bharatha.” In this way, Vibheesha was immersed in various thoughts that multiplied his enthusiasm and reached on the other side of the shore, where Rama and his armies were settled.

 

The Vanaras noticed the arrival of Vibheesha who is from the enemy Kingdom, therefore they did not allow him to meet Rama, they blocked him on the entry itself, and conveyed the message to Rama, Sugriva informed Raghupathi “Oh! Rama, listen to me, the brother of Ravana  has arrived to meet you.” Prabhu spoke “ Oh! Sugriva, what did you think of his visit?” Kapeeshwara spoke “Oh! Naresh,  listen to me, it is difficult to understand the nature of these demons wielded in Maya, no one knows the purpose of his visit, they have the capabilities to assume the form as they wish, most probably he would have come to check on us and find out the secrets of us. I think we should imprison him immediately.” Rama spoke “Oh! Sakha, you are thinking as written in the Neethishashtra, but I have a different promise to myself that whoever takes shelter in me would be protected. Oh! Sugriva, it is wrong to suspect or discard the person who has taken shelter in you, if so, they are considered as ignorant, and witnessing these kinds of people will bring sins. ” Hanuman became extremely happy listening to the compassionate words of Prabhu.

 

Rama continues “Oh! Sugriva, even though if a person killed crores of Bhraman and took shelter in me, cannot be abandoned. Whoever takes an initiative to step towards me would get rid of their sins committed in the crores of births; a sinner stays away from me. If Vibheeshana was wicked like Ravana, will he try to meet me? It is impossible to meet me for the wicked people, he is pure-hearted that’s the reason he has arrived to meet me. The righteous, noble, and pious people attain me very easily. Oh! Kapeeshwara, I hate deceitfulness, wickedness, and ill speaking about others. Even if Ravana sends him to know our secrets, we have nothing to lose or fear. Oh! Vanararaja, Lakshmana is highly skilled in battlefields, is capable to destroys the demons in the entire world in no time. If Vibheeshana has come to take shelter in me, I would definitely protect him and will consider him dear as my life. Therefore bring him before me.”

 

The Vanaras and Angadha and Hanuman cheered “Jai Kripalu Jai Sri Ramachandra’ and returned to Vibheeshana. Thus the Vanaras brought Vibheeshana before Prabhu. Vibheeshana saw that magnificent form of the two brothers, which is highly pleasing to eyes, he looked at Rama and stood like a pillar, without blinking eyes. The Supreme Lord who has the complexion of dark clouds, great stature, beautiful eyes resembles lotus flower petals, is the destroyer of fear and anxieties of people who contemplates upon him. He has powerful shoulders, conch shaped neck, broad chest, and his lustrous face excels the beauty of numerous Kamadeva. Vibheesha shed tears of joy, elevated to the state of ecstasy, and began to speak in a soft tone “Oh! Prabho, I am a younger brother to Ravana, Oh! Devarakshaka, as I have born in the clan of demons, my nature is Tamasik, loves to remain in the darkness like owl, and sinful natured. Oh! Bhagavan, I have repeatedly listened to your glorious nature, and you are the protector of Jeeva from the unfathomable ocean of worldly existence, Oh! Raghuveera, I shall surrender at your lotus feet. Oh! Pranatharththihari, who is the provider of supreme bliss, kindly, protects me.” Vibheesha’s eyes overflown with tears running down the cheeks, fallen at the feet of Raghunatha, and wept bitterly like a child. Prabhu raised Vibheeshana from his feet and embraced him, he made him seated next to him and spoke in beautiful words “Oh!Lankesha, are you happy in and around that wicked demons in Lanka? How’s your family? Oh! Sakha, you are living in the middle of wicked people, how did you perform the daily rites while living with them? It is surprising; I know your nature very well. You are righteous and impartial, and truthful as well. Oh! Dear Vibheeshana, it is better to heave in hell instead of living with the wicked people.”

 

Vibheeshana speaks “Oh! Prabho, Oh! Raghava, you have showered extreme compassion and considered me as your Dasa, I have the fortune to take shelter at your lotus feet, and therefore I am extremely happy. Oh! Bhagavan, whoever does not abandon the worldly desires and bondage which is the prime cause of grief, and contemplate upon supreme Lord Rama, cannot live in happiness, not even in their dreams. The Lobham, Moham, Madha, Krodha, and Ashcharya remain in an individual until he takes the shelter at the lotus feet of Rama who is wielded in powerful bow and arrow. The excessive lust and desire in the worldly matters are like darkness of the night, Ragadhveshas are owl takes pleasure in that darkness of the night, and it resides in the heart of the individuals until the supreme brilliance of Surya like devotion to the Lord settles in it. Oh! Prabho, my heart, and mind is extremely serene after witnessing your lotus feet, all my fears have vanished. Oh! Prabho, your compassionate grace would remove the Thapathraya of the Jeeva, I am a Rakshasa by birth, and have all those wicked nature in me, although I have attained the fortune to remain in the embrace of Prabhu, which is extremely difficult even for the saintly men and ascetics who undertakes strict austerities and penances and find it difficult envision that charismatic form in their minds. Oh! Rama, Oh! Anandaroopi, Oh! Kripanidhi, I have attained the fruitfulness of my life, I have taken shelter at the lotus feet of that Prabhu who is worshiped by Lord Bhrama, Lord Vishnu and Lord Maheshwara.”

||Sri Ram Jeyram Jai Jai Ram||

Chapter – 9 – Sundara Kandam

 Mandodhari's advice to Ravana/Vibheeshna's advice to Ravana

The city of Lanka was doomed in gloominess from the day Hanuman set fire on it, the people were lived in great fear, immersed in various thoughts “We have seen the prowess of the emissary of Rama, we have no other shelter place, if the emissary is possessed this immense power, it is unimaginable about the prowess of his Master.” Devi Mandodhari received the terrible news from her female companions, she felt extremely restless. She approached her husband in private and prostrated before him and spoke with folded hands “Oh! Swami, kindly leave your enmity with Lord Sri Hari, kindly listen to my words, it is for your welfare. Therefore instruct your Minister to send back the wife of that valorous prince with all respects. The females of Lanka are horrified at the prowess of that Vanara who set fire to Lanka, while thinking about the same causing destruction of their fetus. Devi Sita will cause the destruction of your clan like the snow causes damage to the lotus flowers. Oh! Lord, kindly listen to me, if you do not return Devi Sita, even the Lord Shambhu or Lord Bhrama will not be on your side. Ramabana is serpent to the cluster of demons like frogs, kindly leave your arrogance, and protect the frog-like your clan from the powerful Ramabana.”

 

Ravana who is extremely arrogant and dull-minded, laughed out boisterously “Oh! Devi, it is true that woman is always fidgety, they get so nervous even the hours of auspiciousness, her heart is too week. If the army of Vanara enters into my kingdom, they would be a great feast for demons. Lokapalakas are frightened of my valor. It is witty that you are my wife, scared of my enemies.” He embraced her and expressed his love for her and went to the assembly of the ministers. Mandodhari became restless; she understood his fate has turned against him. Ravana took a seat on the majestic throne, soon he received the news of army of Vanaras arrived on the other side of the shore. Ravana discussed with his ministers for valuable suggestions, they advised “Oh! Prabho, you are powerful in all manner, you have won over the deities and demons, so not to worry about these Vanaras and the humans. It won’t create a problem for you.”

 

If the minister or physician, or preceptor, speaks out of fear or speaks for personal gain would cause destruction to Kingdom, health, and Dharma. Ravana could not take a proper decision out of their praise, Vibheeshana felt immensely pleased watching the pitiable state of his elder brother, he prostrated before him. He took a seat in the assembly and head hung down, Ravana asked his opinion, Vibheeshana began to speak “Oh! Dear brother, you are so kind to me, I shall speak that I feel appropriate to me, and it would be most promising to you as well. There is a saying that no one should look at the Chandra on the Chathurthi day, people who really yearn to have welfare, happiness, fame, intellect, and all the material comforts in their lives should not look at the strange woman and fall for her beauty.  No one has the right to hurt or kill the creatures on this planet, even if he is an emperor of fourteen worlds, it would heave him to destruction. If a person has all the virtues, and skill but if he has shown a little bit of Lobha is enough to stain him. Oh! Brother, Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Madha, and Mathscharya would lead to hell, therefore leave all those and take shelter in Raghuveera who is sought after by noble and virtuous, and contemplate upon him. Oh! Brother, listen to me, Rama is not an ordinary human. He is Bhuvaneshwara who is the Kala of Kala, he is unblemished by Maya, he is absolute Bhramam, he has no birth, he is all-pervasive, he is unconquerable, he has neither beginning nor end. The Supreme Lord Rama is the ocean of mercy, he has assumed the form of a human for the welfare of cows, Brahmins, deities, Rishis and Sages, and Mother Earth. Oh! Brother, listen to me, he is the source of supreme bliss, he is enemy of wicked, and truly compassionate to his devotees, he is the protector of Veda and Dharma, kindly leave your enmity with him, prostrate before him. He is supreme Lord who destroys the sufferings and miseries of the people who have taken shelter in him. Oh! Lord, kindly give back Devi Vaidhehi to Rama and surrender to that Lord who is impartial to all. He never abandons even the severe sinners. Oh! Ravan, kindly understands, he is supreme Lord Rama who destroys the Thapathraya of the Jeeva.”

 

Vibheeshana continues “ Oh! Dhashamukha, I shall prostrate at your feet, and repeatedly asking you to leave your arrogance, ignorance, Moha, and Madha, and contemplate upon Kosaladheesha. Kindly consider this as the advice of our grandfather Sage Pulasthya. Oh! Thatha, I have taken this opportunity to convey the message of our grandfather.” There was a noble minister Malyavan in the assembly, he spoke “Oh! Son, your brother is impartial, the storehouse of virtues, therefore listen to Vibheeshana.” Ravana infuriated listen to the advice of Vibheeshana and Malyavan, he called out for his men and ordered “No one here to throw out these two fools, who are praising the virtues of my enemy?” Immediately Malyavan rose from his seat and left the assembly of Ravan. Vibheeshan spoke with folded hands “Oh! Brother,  the Veda, and Purana proclaim that we all have merits and demerits.  The place where virtues prevail, that will be the abode of richness and happiness, the place where immoralities exists would be the place for unhappiness and miseries. It is sad that your intellect has become polluted; you have considered friends as enemies, and vice versa. This is also one of the reasons that you wanted to possess Devi Sita who is Kalarathri to the clan of demons. I fall at your feet and beg you, kindly accept my suggestion, kindly return Devi Sita to Rama, and keep yourself safe from the troubles.”

 

Vibheeshana spoke all those reasons were widely accepted by the intellectuals from scriptures and Veda, but Ravana could not understand a bit of it, he rose from the throne in extreme rage and gave him a hard kick, and spoke “Oh! Wicked, your death has neared, Oh! Fool, you are living under my shelter, but you are justifying my enemy. Oh! Wicked, I have possessed immense prowess, who did not I defeat? You are living in my Kingdom and kind to those Thapasvin, in that case, you can leave my Kingdom and be with them always.” Vibheeshana, repeatedly prostrated before him and begged to protect himself from the enmity of Rama were fallen into deaf ears.

 

Lord Mahadeva speaks “Oh! Uma, this is the real nature of an ascetic, even though he was abused and misbehaved by his brother, he wanted to ensure the safety of Ravana. Vibheeshana spoke “Oh! Brother, nothing wrong you have abused me physically, you are equivalent to my father, but your welfare lies in the meditation and contemplation upon Lord Rama.” After saying so, Vibheesha with his ministers left the Kingdom of Lanka through the skyways. He spoke “Oh! Brother, Lord Rama is extremely powerful and fight against injustice, all your ministers are moving to the mouth of death, therefore I am going to take shelter at the lotus feet of Rama, do not blame me.”