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Collection: Part 10 · VIDEHA MITHILA MAITHILI DISCUSSION CRITICISM SERIES PART 10
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Duration: 20:28
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0:00–0:09Enter Chandrakethu in a chariot driven by Sumantra, bow in hand, filled with wonder, delight and
0:09–0:11apprehension.
0:11–0:17Soldiers, at last reinforcements have arrived to help us.
0:17–0:25A chariot yoked to swift horses, driven at speed by Sumantra, with the Kovidara Banner
0:25–0:33flying above. Having heard the news of battle, Chandraketu is coming. Chandraketu, look,
0:33–0:40Sumantra, look. At the forefront of the battle stands a boy warrior, showering a blizzard
0:40–0:48of arrows upon the army. His five locks stream in the wind. His boasting sounds without pause.
0:48–0:51And anger has flushed his handsome face.
0:51–0:52This is astonishing.
0:52–1:00A single boy, raised by ascetics, encircled by so vast an army.
1:00–1:07Like some new, unknown shoot of Raghu's line, loses a thousand fiery arrows.
1:07–1:13From a bow that thunders terribly, and splits the temples of war elephants.
1:13–1:16The sight sets my curiosity ablaze.
1:16–1:24Sumantra, noble prince, may you live long. As I look upon this boy whose power surpasses.
1:24–1:32Both gods and demons, and whose beauty is its equal. I am reminded of Rama, bow in hand.
1:32–1:40Setting out to destroy the enemies of Vishwamitra's sacrifice. Chandraketu, my heart recoils in
1:40–1:48discussed to see so many. Attack one solitary person. He is a boy and utterly alone. While
1:48–1:56a vast army surrounds him on every side, weapons interlaced in hands as huge as palmyra trunks,
1:56–2:03men thrilled by their battle array, chariots hung with chiming golden bells, and cloudlike
2:03–2:11war elephants who streaming ica, whips the air into a gale. Sumantra, my child, even
2:11–2:19altogether they cannot withstand him. There is no question of facing him one by one. Chandraketu,
2:19–2:27faster, sir, faster. He has begun the wholesale slaughter of my attendants.
2:27–2:32His bowstring's thunder, swelled by the deep roar of war drums,
2:32–2:36Raises a tumult greater than herds of elephants,
2:36–2:39Trumpeting in mountain caves,
2:39–2:44And the hero decks the earth with heaps of twitching, headless trunks,
2:44–2:48Like morsels fallen from the dreadful mouth,
2:48–2:51Of death after he has eaten his fill.
2:51–2:54Aside
2:54–3:07Reflecting with wonder, shame and alarm, miming the headlong speed of the chariot, as though
3:07–3:09trying to remember,
3:09–3:17How can I permit a duel between Prince Chandraketu and such a supernatural being?
3:17–3:22Yet, after all, we are elders of the Exhvaka house.
3:22–3:27And in these circumstances, what other cause remains?
3:27–3:29Chondroketu, oh!
3:29–3:34My army is falling back on every side.
3:34–3:37Sumontra, my child.
3:37–3:41May you live long, the warrior is now within hearing of your call.
3:41–3:45Chondroketu, sir, what name?
3:45–3:56the messengers give. Sumontra, Lava, Chondroketu, Lava, what value can such soldiers have against
3:56–4:04one so mighty as you? I am here. Face me in single combat. Fire should be met by fire
4:04–4:05alone.
4:05–4:11Enter lava, advancing swiftly and fearlessly.
4:11–4:19Look, Prince, look. At your challenge the Bawariya stops destroying the army.
4:19–4:27As a lion cub, hearing the thunder of a cloud, leaves off slaughtering the herd of elephants.
4:27–4:31A tremendous appror of stage.
4:31–4:36Well said, Prince, well said. You are indeed a true son of Ikshvaka. See, I have turned back to meet you."
4:36–4:43Wheeling suddenly. He rushes forward in fury.
4:43–4:48What is this? Have the commanders I defeated rallied and come to attack me from behind?
4:48–4:52Villains, like the seas flood struck by the wind of dissolution, roaring so terribly that it burst the year.
4:52–4:56They're torrent, swelling to its highest tide. Shall feed the sacrificial fire of my anger.
4:56–5:00An anger fierce as the flame in the mouth of the submarine fire, which blazes higher when mountains are hurled into it.
5:00–5:05chandraketu, noble prince. Your truly wondrous qualities have made you very dear to me. You
5:05–5:09are now my friend. All that is mine is yours. Why then destroy your own people, the touchstone
5:09–5:17of your glorious chandraketu himself." Turning stirred an apprehensive. The tremendous
5:17–5:27appror continues offstage with anger and contempt. He moves towards chandraketu.
5:27–5:28too.
5:28–5:30Ah, how consummitly speaks.
5:30–5:33This radiant descendant of the Solar Race, heroic, gracious.
5:33–5:34And at once gentle and stern.
5:34–5:36Why should I trouble with those men now?
5:36–5:37Let me first honor him.
5:37–5:38Lava, shame.
5:38–5:39How these dogs insult me.
5:39–5:41They have interrupted a conversation between warriors.
5:41–5:42Chandraketu, look, sir, look.
5:42–5:43The sight is worth seeing.
5:43–5:46Brandishing his bow with confidence and eager delight.
5:46–5:47He takes aim at me while the army behind him.
5:47–5:49Presses hard upon his heels.
5:49–5:50Like a cloud bearing the rainbow.
5:50–5:52Driven backwards by a violent wind.
5:52–5:55Symmetra, even to look upon him, well, only the noble prince is capable.
5:55–5:56Of that.
5:56–5:57We are overwhelmed with wonder.
5:57–6:25What?
6:25–6:27As compassion melted him, there is no time to waste.
6:27–6:28I shall arrest the army.
6:28–6:30With the divine Drumbaka weapon.
6:30–6:32Sumuntra, why has the uproar of our army suddenly ceased?
6:32–6:34Lava, at last that insolent fellow is in sight.
6:34–6:37Sumuntra, my child, I believe the prince has employed.
6:37–6:38The Drumbaka weapon.
6:38–6:39Chandraketu, there can be no doubt.
6:39–6:41Like a dreadful union of darkness and lightning.
6:41–6:43First blinding, then dazzling.
6:43–6:44It strikes even eyes that remain fixed open.
6:44–6:47My soldiers stand motionless, as though painted in a picture.
6:47–6:49The invincible Drumbaka weapon has surely been used.
6:49–6:51This is a marvel, nothing less than a marvel.
6:51–6:53Black is the darkness stored in the womb of hell.
6:53–6:55Yet glowing red with a glare of heated, shining brass.
6:55–6:58The Jimbaka weapon overspreads the sky, like peaks of the Vindyas torn up by a roaring wind.
6:58–7:00That proclaims the end of an age.
7:00–7:03Their caves tarnulate from within, by lightning issuing through masses of cloud.
7:03–7:08But how did he obtain the Jimbaka weapon?
7:08–7:11Presumably from the son of Prashadas.
7:11–7:19My child, weapons such as these, the Jimbaka above all, are not acquired in that way.
7:19–7:294. These weapons are, as it were, the offspring of Krishashiva. From him they came to Kashika.
7:29–7:36From Kashika to dear Roma. And ever since they have remained with Roma alone.
7:36–7:42Yet others too have beheld them, men illumined, by their own purity, who became seers of
7:42–7:45the mantras by themselves.
7:45–7:54regarding the other. They gaze at one another with affection and love.
7:54–8:01My child, be on your guard, your adversary has returned. Both princes, how gentle this young
8:01–8:10man looks. Is this a sudden meeting of minds? The influence of his countless virtues. Some
8:10–8:17old friendship swiftly formed in a former birth, or is he a kinsman hidden from us by
8:17–8:27fate that at the mere sight of him my heart is bound in single-minded enchantment.
8:27–8:35Each regarding the other, looking at lover tearfully aside
8:35–8:42aside. It is the common nature of the soul that one person should feel an instinctive
8:42–8:48affection for another particular person. People of the world describe it figuratively as,
8:48–8:55the eyes being captivated, or love at first sight. The scriptures therefore declare that
8:55–9:01the thing is real, however groundless and incomprehensible it may appear. There is
9:01–9:08no remedy against affection born without a curse. There must be some subtle trade of love. That
9:08–9:16binds living beings together in their deeper selves. Both princes. How can I lose an arrow
9:16–9:23at this body? I dawned with the delicate insignia of royalty. When at a very meeting my limbs
9:23–9:30tremble. With longing to embrace him. Yet what other course is there but to take up
9:30–9:37arms, before such overwhelming power, and when he lies far beyond the reach of any weapon
9:37–9:47strength. What use are weapons at all? But if, after drawing my sword, I shrink from battle,
9:47–9:54what will he say of me? The savor of the warrior's part is harsh. It checks the spontaneous
9:54–10:03current of affection. Sumontra, my heart. Why are you so widely agitated? Fate has taken
10:03–10:09away the only seed of my hope. Once the creeper has been cut down, how can a new shooter
10:09–10:19rise? Chandraketu, Sumontra, I wish to descend from the chariot. Sumontra, why? Chandraketu,
10:19–10:24Choketu, first, it is the proper way to honor a warrior.
10:24–10:29Second, as you know, it observes the kshatriya tradition.
10:29–10:35According to the interpreters of the law, a chariote warrior must never fight a man who
10:35–10:37is on foot.
10:37–10:41Sumontra, I am caught in a terrible dilemma.
10:41–10:45How can a man like me prevent him from doing what is right?
10:45–10:51Or permitted did whose very essence is sheer recklessness.
10:51–10:54My revered father consults you on every question.
10:54–10:59Of law or statecraft, you, his father's dear friend.
10:59–11:01Why, then?
11:01–11:03This hesitation?
11:03–11:09Cementra, my child, may you live long, your judgment accords with duty.
11:09–11:13This is right conduct in battle, the eternal way of righteousness.
11:13–11:18and the warrior's path followed by the lines of Raghu's house.
11:18–11:23Embracing him with tears of affection.
11:23–11:25Sadly.
11:25–11:28Your words are beyond praise.
11:28–11:31History and legend, the teachings of duty.
11:31–11:37The ancestral customs of Raghu's line, all these, are known to you alone.
11:37–11:38Sumantra.
11:38–11:42Dear child, how many days can it be?
11:42–11:48your beloved father. The conqueror of Indrajit was born and here his own son already walks
11:48–11:56the warrior's path. How complete is the good fortune of Dasharata's line, Chandraketu.
11:56–12:02So long as the eldest of Raghu's house remains unfulfilled. How can our line attain fulfillment?
12:02–12:09That single thought consumes my father and my three other fathers with grief. Sumantra,
12:09–12:14Ah! Chandra Kedu's words pierce. The tender quick of my heart.
12:14–12:21Lava, to speak truly, the unfolding of feeling here is wholly confused. At moonrise the night-blooming
12:21–12:28lotus rejoices. And at the sight of him my eyes too are delighted. Yet my arm, its terrible
12:28–12:34wounds laid open. Throbbing with love for the heavy bow. And its cruel string that
12:34–12:38resounds so fiercely, longs for battle.
12:38–12:42Miming his descent from the chariot.
12:42–12:47Sir, Chandraketu of the Solar Race bows before you.
12:47–12:55May you possess a sovereignty unconquerable, pure and majestic as Kokutstas.
12:55–13:00May the eternal God, the Boar, grant you lasting welfare.
13:00–13:01And Father.
13:01–13:07May the sun, father of your race, inspire you in battle.
13:07–13:14May Metruvaruna, the preceptor of your preceptors, and your own preceptor too, be gracious to
13:14–13:15you.
13:15–13:23May you receive the strength of Indra, Vishnu, Agni, the Maruts, and Supanna.
13:23–13:30May the mighty mantra sound of the bow strings of Roma and Lakshmana bring you victory.
13:30–13:34Prince, you look magnificent upon your chariot. There is no need for so great a display of courtesy.
13:34–13:38Then let the fortunate Prince adorn a chariot as well.
13:38–13:41Sir, have the Prince mount his chariot again.
13:41–13:44A little embarrassed.
13:44–13:47Smiling.
13:47–13:51Then you two must accept Prince Chandraketu's request.
13:51–13:56Lover, who would hesitate to use an implement of his own?
13:56–14:01But we forest dwellers are not accustomed to riding in chariots.
14:01–14:08Sumontra, my child, you remember the claims of both self-respect and generosity.
14:08–14:16If Roma, king of the Ishvakus, could see this conduct of yours, his heart would overflow with affection.
14:16–14:25Lover, I understand that the royal sage himself is exceedingly generous, or so, at least, I have heard.
14:25–14:33We do not ordinarily oppose such a right, and who in the world would not honor the king's countless virtues.
14:33–14:42Yet the challenge proclaimed by the guardians of the horse, a provocation flung at every treachery, has brought about this change in me.
14:42–14:48Chandra Ketu, are you offended even by the splendor of my father's immeasurable power?
14:48–14:52Lover, whether I am or not is beside the point.
14:52–14:58I ask only this, I have heard that Rogva is a self-controlled man, it is said that neither
14:58–15:01he know his subjects are arrogant.
15:01–15:07Why, then, do his people speak words fit for demons?
15:07–15:15The sages say that demonic speech is speech, fit only for the intoxicated or the proud.
15:15–15:19It is the root of every feud, the very class of the world.
15:19–15:28have men condemned it. Speech of the opposite kind. They praise in these words. The wise
15:28–15:34declare that gracious speech is the wishful feeling cow itself. It yields all that one
15:34–15:42desires, drives one away. Gives birth to fame, and wipes out every evil deed. It is the
15:42–15:46the very mother of supreme prosperity.
15:46–15:50How gallus is this young disciple of Valmiki?
15:50–15:54Every word he speaks is tipped in the nature of a sage.
15:54–15:57Chendaketu, regarding what you just said, are you offended?
15:57–15:59Even by the splendor of my father's power?
15:59–16:00I ask only this.
16:00–16:03Is the exercise of a kshatriya's duty subject to limitation?
16:03–16:07You do not know the lord of the Ikshvakos in the list.
16:07–16:10Please abandon this obstinacy now.
16:10–16:15By destroying the soldiers you have certainly displayed your strength.
16:15–16:20But it is unwise to vie with the conqueror of Jamadagnya.
16:20–16:21Laughing.
16:21–16:25Sir, why proclaim with such fanfare that the king defeated Jamadagnya?
16:25–16:28It is an established truth that Brahmin's strength lies in speech.
16:28–16:30Whereas Ekshatriya's strength lies in his arm.
16:30–16:32Jamadagnya was a Brahmin who took up the sword.
16:32–16:35What glory does the king gain by defeating such a man?
16:35–16:37not agitated.
16:37–16:45Sir, enough of this dispute. This person must be some new incarnation of the primal being.
16:45–16:50If even the son of Bhrigu is no adversary in his eyes, and if he refuses to admit that
16:50–16:57father Rama's righteous deeds could have secured the safety of all seven worlds.
16:57–16:59Ex-in-tall.
16:59–17:05A Vidyadhar and his wife appear in a chariot moving through the sky.
17:07–17:09Reflecting.
17:09–17:11He does so.
17:12–17:14Looking.
17:15–17:17Ex-in-t both.
17:17–17:21Who does not acknowledge Rama's deeds and greatness, yet there remains room for criticism. Well enough now.
17:22–17:26He is an elder. There is no need to reconsider his actions. Let it pass. Why speak of it again?
17:26–17:28Even the killing of Sunder's wife did not stain his fame.
17:28–17:30In the eyes of the world, he remains great.
17:30–17:32And the three steps he retreated in battle with Kara.
17:32–17:34Or the skill he displayed in killing Indra's son.
17:34–17:36The world knows all these matters perfectly well.
17:36–17:37Chandraketu, no!
17:37–17:39By reviling Father Rama, you have now crossed all bounds.
17:39–17:40Your insolence has grown intolerable.
17:40–17:41Lava, what?
17:41–17:43Are you making faces at me?
17:43–17:44Simantra, I see their anger flare.
17:44–17:46The moment each understands the other's intent.
17:46–17:48They tremble so violently that their crests come loose.
17:48–17:50Their eyes naturally pink as lotus petals.
17:50–17:51Of themselves turn blood red.
17:51–17:53And the sudden, frenzy dance of their arched brows.
17:53–17:55Makes each face resemble the dark mark upon the full moon.
17:55–17:58or a black be hovering over a blossoming white lotus.
17:58–17:59Both princes, come!
17:59–18:00Let us find a place better suited to battle.
18:00–18:01End of Act 5.
18:01–18:02Interlude to Acts 6.
18:02–18:05Vidyātara, ah, behold the prowess of these two princes of the solar race.
18:05–18:08Locked in a furious struggle and a battle that began without warning, the beauty of
18:08–18:10ksatriya power has gained a new brilliance.
18:10–18:11And gods and demons themselves are speechless with wonder.
18:11–18:12Look, my dear!
18:12–18:14They bend bows hung with shining golden bells.
18:14–18:16And with a mighty twang of their heavy strings.
18:16–18:18Raise a terrifying tumult, their crests stream without pause.
18:18–18:22Arrows rain down, and the battle, mounting with dramatic violence, strikes terror into
18:22–18:23the whole world.
18:23–18:24For the welfare of both, the drums of heaven.
18:24–18:28with the deep thunder of clouds, then let flowers fall unceasingly upon these two perfected heroes.
18:28–18:32Dense showers laden with open golden lotuses, dripping nectar from the tender, jewel-like
18:32–18:34buds of the immortal trees of the gods.
18:34–18:36Vidyadhari, but why has the sky suddenly turned so tony?
18:36–18:39And why has the dreadful flash of lightning began its wild dance?
18:39–18:40Interlude to Act 6.
18:40–18:42Vidyadhara, what can be happening now?
18:42–18:44Has the third eye of the darkened red god open fully?
18:44–18:45Blazing like sunlight spun upon T'Vashtar's lave?
18:45–18:47Ah, I understand.
18:47–18:48Prince Chandraketa has released.
18:48–18:50The weapon of fire and its flames are spreading everywhere.
18:50–18:52Now, all the other celestial chariots have fled.
18:52–18:54The yaktail banners are singed into rainbow colors.
18:54–18:56And the flames upon our own standard make it look.
18:56–18:58For a moment, as though it had been dyed saffron.
18:58–18:59A marvel.
18:59–19:01The god of fire has appeared, sparks bursting from him.
19:01–19:04Crack like thunderbolts, how terribly the flames leap and lick.
19:04–19:05The heat spreading on every side is unbearable.
19:05–19:07I had better shield my beloved with my body.
19:07–19:08And move to a safer distance.
19:08–19:11Vidyothari, ah, the touch of my husband's body has shut out the heat.
19:11–19:14Cool and smooth as the purest pearl, so tender and complete.
19:14–19:15Then in delight my eyes roll back and close.
19:15–19:17Vidyothara, why, what have I done?
19:17–19:19And yet, one need do nothing at all.
19:19–19:21The mere joy of companionship removes sorrow.
19:21–19:23The great blessing it is to possess someone who loves you.
19:23–19:24Interlude to Axix.
19:24–19:27Vidyadharahri, why has the sky suddenly darkened with clouds?
19:27–19:29Fluid billowing masses adorned with flashing lightning.
19:29–19:30Black is the throat of a peacock maddened with delight?
19:30–19:33Vidyadharahra, it must be the effect of the verna weapon released by Prince Lava.
19:33–19:34What is this?
19:34–19:36Thousands upon thousands of swelling clouds.
19:36–19:37Have quenched the weapon of fire.
19:37–19:39Vidyadharahri, ah, how delightful it is to me.
19:39–19:42Vidyadharahra, but alas, every excess gives birth to danger.
19:42–19:45Now, the world is shivering with cold, enveloped in dense and terrible darkness.
19:45–19:48Thickened by clouds roaring like the wind of dissolution, as though, the entire
19:48–19:50universe were struggling inside the cavernous mouth of time.
19:50–19:53Yawning horribly to swallow it in a single gulp, or as though it had entered.
19:53–19:55The belly of Narayana, all the doors of his senses closed.
19:55–19:57In the yogic sleep at the end of an age.
19:57–19:58Well done, Prince Chinaketu.
19:58–19:59Well done.
19:59–20:01This is precisely the moment to release the Wind Weapon.
20:01–20:03And he surely has released it for.
20:03–20:05The Wind has torn the swelling clouds apart.
20:05–20:06As knowledge dissolves delusion into Brahman.
20:06–20:09Vidyadhari, my lord, who is this, descending in terror between the two princes.
20:09–20:12In his celestial chariot, waiting the end of his robe with uplifted hand.
20:12–20:15And from far away striving with gentle words to stop the battle?
20:15–20:16Interlude to Acts 6.
20:16–20:19Vidyadhara, it is the lord of Raghu's line, returning from the slaying of Shambhuka.
20:19–20:21At the great man's words, both honor him and cease their battle.
20:21–20:23Lava falls silent, while Chandraketa bows profoundly.
20:23–20:25May the king's meeting with his own sons bear an auspicious fruit.
20:25–20:26Come, let us go now.
20:26–20:27End of the interlude.

Plain text

Enter Chandrakethu in a chariot driven by Sumantra, bow in hand, filled with wonder, delight and apprehension. Soldiers, at last reinforcements have arrived to help us. A chariot yoked to swift horses, driven at speed by Sumantra, with the Kovidara Banner flying above. Having heard the news of battle, Chandraketu is coming. Chandraketu, look, Sumantra, look. At the forefront of the battle stands a boy warrior, showering a blizzard of arrows upon the army. His five locks stream in the wind. His boasting sounds without pause. And anger has flushed his handsome face. This is astonishing. A single boy, raised by ascetics, encircled by so vast an army. Like some new, unknown shoot of Raghu's line, loses a thousand fiery arrows. From a bow that thunders terribly, and splits the temples of war elephants. The sight sets my curiosity ablaze. Sumantra, noble prince, may you live long. As I look upon this boy whose power surpasses. Both gods and demons, and whose beauty is its equal. I am reminded of Rama, bow in hand. Setting out to destroy the enemies of Vishwamitra's sacrifice. Chandraketu, my heart recoils in discussed to see so many. Attack one solitary person. He is a boy and utterly alone. While a vast army surrounds him on every side, weapons interlaced in hands as huge as palmyra trunks, men thrilled by their battle array, chariots hung with chiming golden bells, and cloudlike war elephants who streaming ica, whips the air into a gale. Sumantra, my child, even altogether they cannot withstand him. There is no question of facing him one by one. Chandraketu, faster, sir, faster. He has begun the wholesale slaughter of my attendants. His bowstring's thunder, swelled by the deep roar of war drums, Raises a tumult greater than herds of elephants, Trumpeting in mountain caves, And the hero decks the earth with heaps of twitching, headless trunks, Like morsels fallen from the dreadful mouth, Of death after he has eaten his fill. Aside Reflecting with wonder, shame and alarm, miming the headlong speed of the chariot, as though trying to remember, How can I permit a duel between Prince Chandraketu and such a supernatural being? Yet, after all, we are elders of the Exhvaka house. And in these circumstances, what other cause remains? Chondroketu, oh! My army is falling back on every side. Sumontra, my child. May you live long, the warrior is now within hearing of your call. Chondroketu, sir, what name? the messengers give. Sumontra, Lava, Chondroketu, Lava, what value can such soldiers have against one so mighty as you? I am here. Face me in single combat. Fire should be met by fire alone. Enter lava, advancing swiftly and fearlessly. Look, Prince, look. At your challenge the Bawariya stops destroying the army. As a lion cub, hearing the thunder of a cloud, leaves off slaughtering the herd of elephants. A tremendous appror of stage. Well said, Prince, well said. You are indeed a true son of Ikshvaka. See, I have turned back to meet you." Wheeling suddenly. He rushes forward in fury. What is this? Have the commanders I defeated rallied and come to attack me from behind? Villains, like the seas flood struck by the wind of dissolution, roaring so terribly that it burst the year. They're torrent, swelling to its highest tide. Shall feed the sacrificial fire of my anger. An anger fierce as the flame in the mouth of the submarine fire, which blazes higher when mountains are hurled into it. chandraketu, noble prince. Your truly wondrous qualities have made you very dear to me. You are now my friend. All that is mine is yours. Why then destroy your own people, the touchstone of your glorious chandraketu himself." Turning stirred an apprehensive. The tremendous appror continues offstage with anger and contempt. He moves towards chandraketu. too. Ah, how consummitly speaks. This radiant descendant of the Solar Race, heroic, gracious. And at once gentle and stern. Why should I trouble with those men now? Let me first honor him. Lava, shame. How these dogs insult me. They have interrupted a conversation between warriors. Chandraketu, look, sir, look. The sight is worth seeing. Brandishing his bow with confidence and eager delight. He takes aim at me while the army behind him. Presses hard upon his heels. Like a cloud bearing the rainbow. Driven backwards by a violent wind. Symmetra, even to look upon him, well, only the noble prince is capable. Of that. We are overwhelmed with wonder. What? As compassion melted him, there is no time to waste. I shall arrest the army. With the divine Drumbaka weapon. Sumuntra, why has the uproar of our army suddenly ceased? Lava, at last that insolent fellow is in sight. Sumuntra, my child, I believe the prince has employed. The Drumbaka weapon. Chandraketu, there can be no doubt. Like a dreadful union of darkness and lightning. First blinding, then dazzling. It strikes even eyes that remain fixed open. My soldiers stand motionless, as though painted in a picture. The invincible Drumbaka weapon has surely been used. This is a marvel, nothing less than a marvel. Black is the darkness stored in the womb of hell. Yet glowing red with a glare of heated, shining brass. The Jimbaka weapon overspreads the sky, like peaks of the Vindyas torn up by a roaring wind. That proclaims the end of an age. Their caves tarnulate from within, by lightning issuing through masses of cloud. But how did he obtain the Jimbaka weapon? Presumably from the son of Prashadas. My child, weapons such as these, the Jimbaka above all, are not acquired in that way. 4. These weapons are, as it were, the offspring of Krishashiva. From him they came to Kashika. From Kashika to dear Roma. And ever since they have remained with Roma alone. Yet others too have beheld them, men illumined, by their own purity, who became seers of the mantras by themselves. regarding the other. They gaze at one another with affection and love. My child, be on your guard, your adversary has returned. Both princes, how gentle this young man looks. Is this a sudden meeting of minds? The influence of his countless virtues. Some old friendship swiftly formed in a former birth, or is he a kinsman hidden from us by fate that at the mere sight of him my heart is bound in single-minded enchantment. Each regarding the other, looking at lover tearfully aside aside. It is the common nature of the soul that one person should feel an instinctive affection for another particular person. People of the world describe it figuratively as, the eyes being captivated, or love at first sight. The scriptures therefore declare that the thing is real, however groundless and incomprehensible it may appear. There is no remedy against affection born without a curse. There must be some subtle trade of love. That binds living beings together in their deeper selves. Both princes. How can I lose an arrow at this body? I dawned with the delicate insignia of royalty. When at a very meeting my limbs tremble. With longing to embrace him. Yet what other course is there but to take up arms, before such overwhelming power, and when he lies far beyond the reach of any weapon strength. What use are weapons at all? But if, after drawing my sword, I shrink from battle, what will he say of me? The savor of the warrior's part is harsh. It checks the spontaneous current of affection. Sumontra, my heart. Why are you so widely agitated? Fate has taken away the only seed of my hope. Once the creeper has been cut down, how can a new shooter rise? Chandraketu, Sumontra, I wish to descend from the chariot. Sumontra, why? Chandraketu, Choketu, first, it is the proper way to honor a warrior. Second, as you know, it observes the kshatriya tradition. According to the interpreters of the law, a chariote warrior must never fight a man who is on foot. Sumontra, I am caught in a terrible dilemma. How can a man like me prevent him from doing what is right? Or permitted did whose very essence is sheer recklessness. My revered father consults you on every question. Of law or statecraft, you, his father's dear friend. Why, then? This hesitation? Cementra, my child, may you live long, your judgment accords with duty. This is right conduct in battle, the eternal way of righteousness. and the warrior's path followed by the lines of Raghu's house. Embracing him with tears of affection. Sadly. Your words are beyond praise. History and legend, the teachings of duty. The ancestral customs of Raghu's line, all these, are known to you alone. Sumantra. Dear child, how many days can it be? your beloved father. The conqueror of Indrajit was born and here his own son already walks the warrior's path. How complete is the good fortune of Dasharata's line, Chandraketu. So long as the eldest of Raghu's house remains unfulfilled. How can our line attain fulfillment? That single thought consumes my father and my three other fathers with grief. Sumantra, Ah! Chandra Kedu's words pierce. The tender quick of my heart. Lava, to speak truly, the unfolding of feeling here is wholly confused. At moonrise the night-blooming lotus rejoices. And at the sight of him my eyes too are delighted. Yet my arm, its terrible wounds laid open. Throbbing with love for the heavy bow. And its cruel string that resounds so fiercely, longs for battle. Miming his descent from the chariot. Sir, Chandraketu of the Solar Race bows before you. May you possess a sovereignty unconquerable, pure and majestic as Kokutstas. May the eternal God, the Boar, grant you lasting welfare. And Father. May the sun, father of your race, inspire you in battle. May Metruvaruna, the preceptor of your preceptors, and your own preceptor too, be gracious to you. May you receive the strength of Indra, Vishnu, Agni, the Maruts, and Supanna. May the mighty mantra sound of the bow strings of Roma and Lakshmana bring you victory. Prince, you look magnificent upon your chariot. There is no need for so great a display of courtesy. Then let the fortunate Prince adorn a chariot as well. Sir, have the Prince mount his chariot again. A little embarrassed. Smiling. Then you two must accept Prince Chandraketu's request. Lover, who would hesitate to use an implement of his own? But we forest dwellers are not accustomed to riding in chariots. Sumontra, my child, you remember the claims of both self-respect and generosity. If Roma, king of the Ishvakus, could see this conduct of yours, his heart would overflow with affection. Lover, I understand that the royal sage himself is exceedingly generous, or so, at least, I have heard. We do not ordinarily oppose such a right, and who in the world would not honor the king's countless virtues. Yet the challenge proclaimed by the guardians of the horse, a provocation flung at every treachery, has brought about this change in me. Chandra Ketu, are you offended even by the splendor of my father's immeasurable power? Lover, whether I am or not is beside the point. I ask only this, I have heard that Rogva is a self-controlled man, it is said that neither he know his subjects are arrogant. Why, then, do his people speak words fit for demons? The sages say that demonic speech is speech, fit only for the intoxicated or the proud. It is the root of every feud, the very class of the world. have men condemned it. Speech of the opposite kind. They praise in these words. The wise declare that gracious speech is the wishful feeling cow itself. It yields all that one desires, drives one away. Gives birth to fame, and wipes out every evil deed. It is the the very mother of supreme prosperity. How gallus is this young disciple of Valmiki? Every word he speaks is tipped in the nature of a sage. Chendaketu, regarding what you just said, are you offended? Even by the splendor of my father's power? I ask only this. Is the exercise of a kshatriya's duty subject to limitation? You do not know the lord of the Ikshvakos in the list. Please abandon this obstinacy now. By destroying the soldiers you have certainly displayed your strength. But it is unwise to vie with the conqueror of Jamadagnya. Laughing. Sir, why proclaim with such fanfare that the king defeated Jamadagnya? It is an established truth that Brahmin's strength lies in speech. Whereas Ekshatriya's strength lies in his arm. Jamadagnya was a Brahmin who took up the sword. What glory does the king gain by defeating such a man? not agitated. Sir, enough of this dispute. This person must be some new incarnation of the primal being. If even the son of Bhrigu is no adversary in his eyes, and if he refuses to admit that father Rama's righteous deeds could have secured the safety of all seven worlds. Ex-in-tall. A Vidyadhar and his wife appear in a chariot moving through the sky. Reflecting. He does so. Looking. Ex-in-t both. Who does not acknowledge Rama's deeds and greatness, yet there remains room for criticism. Well enough now. He is an elder. There is no need to reconsider his actions. Let it pass. Why speak of it again? Even the killing of Sunder's wife did not stain his fame. In the eyes of the world, he remains great. And the three steps he retreated in battle with Kara. Or the skill he displayed in killing Indra's son. The world knows all these matters perfectly well. Chandraketu, no! By reviling Father Rama, you have now crossed all bounds. Your insolence has grown intolerable. Lava, what? Are you making faces at me? Simantra, I see their anger flare. The moment each understands the other's intent. They tremble so violently that their crests come loose. Their eyes naturally pink as lotus petals. Of themselves turn blood red. And the sudden, frenzy dance of their arched brows. Makes each face resemble the dark mark upon the full moon. or a black be hovering over a blossoming white lotus. Both princes, come! Let us find a place better suited to battle. End of Act 5. Interlude to Acts 6. Vidyātara, ah, behold the prowess of these two princes of the solar race. Locked in a furious struggle and a battle that began without warning, the beauty of ksatriya power has gained a new brilliance. And gods and demons themselves are speechless with wonder. Look, my dear! They bend bows hung with shining golden bells. And with a mighty twang of their heavy strings. Raise a terrifying tumult, their crests stream without pause. Arrows rain down, and the battle, mounting with dramatic violence, strikes terror into the whole world. For the welfare of both, the drums of heaven. with the deep thunder of clouds, then let flowers fall unceasingly upon these two perfected heroes. Dense showers laden with open golden lotuses, dripping nectar from the tender, jewel-like buds of the immortal trees of the gods. Vidyadhari, but why has the sky suddenly turned so tony? And why has the dreadful flash of lightning began its wild dance? Interlude to Act 6. Vidyadhara, what can be happening now? Has the third eye of the darkened red god open fully? Blazing like sunlight spun upon T'Vashtar's lave? Ah, I understand. Prince Chandraketa has released. The weapon of fire and its flames are spreading everywhere. Now, all the other celestial chariots have fled. The yaktail banners are singed into rainbow colors. And the flames upon our own standard make it look. For a moment, as though it had been dyed saffron. A marvel. The god of fire has appeared, sparks bursting from him. Crack like thunderbolts, how terribly the flames leap and lick. The heat spreading on every side is unbearable. I had better shield my beloved with my body. And move to a safer distance. Vidyothari, ah, the touch of my husband's body has shut out the heat. Cool and smooth as the purest pearl, so tender and complete. Then in delight my eyes roll back and close. Vidyothara, why, what have I done? And yet, one need do nothing at all. The mere joy of companionship removes sorrow. The great blessing it is to possess someone who loves you. Interlude to Axix. Vidyadharahri, why has the sky suddenly darkened with clouds? Fluid billowing masses adorned with flashing lightning. Black is the throat of a peacock maddened with delight? Vidyadharahra, it must be the effect of the verna weapon released by Prince Lava. What is this? Thousands upon thousands of swelling clouds. Have quenched the weapon of fire. Vidyadharahri, ah, how delightful it is to me. Vidyadharahra, but alas, every excess gives birth to danger. Now, the world is shivering with cold, enveloped in dense and terrible darkness. Thickened by clouds roaring like the wind of dissolution, as though, the entire universe were struggling inside the cavernous mouth of time. Yawning horribly to swallow it in a single gulp, or as though it had entered. The belly of Narayana, all the doors of his senses closed. In the yogic sleep at the end of an age. Well done, Prince Chinaketu. Well done. This is precisely the moment to release the Wind Weapon. And he surely has released it for. The Wind has torn the swelling clouds apart. As knowledge dissolves delusion into Brahman. Vidyadhari, my lord, who is this, descending in terror between the two princes. In his celestial chariot, waiting the end of his robe with uplifted hand. And from far away striving with gentle words to stop the battle? Interlude to Acts 6. Vidyadhara, it is the lord of Raghu's line, returning from the slaying of Shambhuka. At the great man's words, both honor him and cease their battle. Lava falls silent, while Chandraketa bows profoundly. May the king's meeting with his own sons bear an auspicious fruit. Come, let us go now. End of the interlude.

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