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Collection: Part 10 · VIDEHA MITHILA MAITHILI DISCUSSION CRITICISM SERIES PART 10
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0:00–0:13At rise Rama is seated with Sita beside him. Enter the chamberlain. He stops, then speaks with
0:13–0:24formal concern. Rama, Queen Vaidehi, please do not grieve. It was not easy for the elders
0:24–0:35to leave us. But the unbroken burden of daily sacred rites sets limits on human freedom.
0:35–0:46For those devoted to religion, domestic life is full of obligations. Sita, I understand,
0:46–0:50My Lord, I understand.
0:50–0:57And yet separation from those we love brings such sorrow.
0:57–1:06Rama, true, these stages of life tear the tenderest fibers of the heart and awaken in a sensitive
1:06–1:15person such detachment that he longs to renounce every pleasure and seek peace in the forest.
1:15–1:26Chamberlain, Dear Rama, Your Majesty, Rama, Good Sir, Not So.
1:26–1:34From one who served in my father's household, Dear Rama, is entirely proper.
1:34–1:38Speak to me as you did before.
1:38–1:44Chamberlain, Ashutva Kriya has arrived from Rishishringas Hermitage.
1:44–1:49Sita, then why delay? Good sir.
1:49–1:52Exit Chamberlain.
1:52–1:55Enter Ashtavakra.
1:55–1:58Sitting.
1:58–2:01Bring him in at once.
2:01–2:05Ashtavakra, blessings upon you both.
2:05–2:10Rama, my reverence, holy sir.
2:10–2:12Please be seated.
2:12–2:20Sita, my reverence. Are my elders and my sister-in-law Shanta?
2:20–2:30Well. Rama, are my soma drinking brother-in-law Rishya Sringa and my sister Shanta both well?
2:30–2:33Sita, did they remember us?
2:33–2:38Ash-tavakra, certainly.
2:38–2:43Your Majesty, Vasishtha sends you this message.
2:43–2:47Virtuous earth, who bears all things.
2:47–2:50Herself gave you birth.
2:50–2:55King Janaka, the equal of the Creator.
2:55–2:57Is your father.
2:57–3:02And my daughter, you are the daughter-in-law.
3:02–3:13of a royal house that has two spiritual guides, ourselves, and the sun God himself.
3:13–3:19What more can we wish for you than the birth of a heroic son?
3:19–3:24Rama, I am deeply honored.
3:24–3:31In ordinary life, a good man's words conform to fact.
3:31–3:40But in the case of a primeval seer, fact itself, conforms to his word.
3:40–3:48Orondotti, the queen mother's, and Shanta have issued this emphatic command.
3:48–3:56Whatever seated desires during her pregnancy must be granted without delay.
3:56–4:01Whatever she asks, I shall fulfill.
4:01–4:11Shishringa, the queen's brother-in-law. Said this, my daughter, because your pregnancy
4:11–4:23is so advanced. You have not been summoned here. Dear Rama, has been charged only with
4:23–4:35keeping you happy. I hope soon to see you safe and well, with your son in your arms.
4:35–4:45Smiling with joy and modest embarrassment. So be it. Did Vasishtha send no message for
4:45–5:02me, listen, we are detained. At your brother-in-law's sacrifice, you are still young and your reign
5:02–5:14has only just begun. Devote yourself to the happiness of your people. For a stainless
5:14–5:18This reputation is a treasure.
5:18–5:22More precious than life.
5:22–5:27The son of Maitra and Varna shall be obeyed.
5:27–5:35Affection, compassion, happiness, not only these, even Jhanaki herself.
5:35–5:44I would surrender, without a moment's hesitation, for the happiness of my people.
5:44–5:49That is why my lord is the mainstay of the house of Ragu.
5:49–5:51Is anyone there?
5:51–5:57See that Ashdavakra is given a place to rest.
5:57–6:01Rises and turns.
6:01–6:03Exit.
6:03–6:05Enter Lakshman.
6:05–6:11Ah, Prince Lakshman has arrived.
6:11–6:16Okshmano, victory to my brother!
6:16–6:23The painter has completed the story of your life in the picture gallery exactly as we described
6:23–6:25it.
6:25–6:31My sister-in-law is invited to see it.
6:31–6:38Dear brother, you have a gift for finding ways to lift the queen's sorrow.
6:38–6:41How far does the story go?
6:41–6:46As far as my sister-in-law's purification by fire.
6:46–6:50They rise and move forward.
6:50–6:52Looking
6:52–6:54Silence.
6:54–6:59She who was perfectly pure from birth.
6:59–7:02What need had she of purification?
7:02–7:08Pure water and fire cannot themselves be purified.
7:08–7:11By any other means.
7:11–7:17Dear Queen, born from the sacrificial ground, forgive me.
7:17–7:22I shall remain humble before you all my life.
7:22–7:30Those for whom family honor is true wealth must satisfy even their critics.
7:30–7:37The unrighteous demand I made under pressure of public opinion was one I never wished to
7:37–7:40make of you.
7:40–7:49One knows that a rare and fragrant flower belongs as the crowning ornament upon the head, not
7:49–7:51crushed beneath the feet.
7:51–7:57Sita, let it be, my lord, let it be.
7:57–8:02Come, let us see the story of your life.
8:02–8:05Lakshmana, the mural is this way.
8:05–8:11Sita, who are those beings gathered above in this scene?
8:11–8:15They seem to be singing my lord's praises.
8:15–8:24Lakshmana, they are the divine weapons called Trimbaka, together with their secret spells.
8:24–8:31Krishashva gave them to Kaushika Vishwamitra, friend of the world, and, after my brother
8:31–8:36slew to Taka, Bhishwamitra bestowed them upon him.
8:36–8:42Rama, my Queen, bow to the Divine Weapons.
8:42–8:51For the welfare of the Vedic faith, Brahma and the other Gods practiced austerities for
8:51–8:56more than a thousand years.
8:56–9:01These weapons are the embodied power of that penance.
9:01–9:06Which the ancient masters were able to behold.
9:06–9:07I bow to them.
9:07–9:11Rama, they will surely serve your children one day.
9:11–9:14Sita, I am blessed.
9:14–9:16This is the episode in Medi-la.
9:16–9:19Sita, ah, there is my lord.
9:19–9:24He has broken Shiva's bow with effortless ease, while my father gazes upon his gentle radiance,
9:24–9:27almost speechless with wonder at the beauty of his form, dark as a blue lotus in full
9:27–9:32bloom, soft and smooth, yet firm and strong, his head adorned only by the simple grace
9:32–9:34of a single top knot.
9:34–9:36Lakshmana, look here.
9:36–9:40Your father bows to his new kinsmen, Vasishtha and the others.
9:40–9:43And Shatna and Agadama, the family priest.
9:43–9:47Of all the kings of Janaka's line, bows as well.
9:47–9:51This scene is truly worth seeing.
9:51–10:00would not welcome the union of the houses of Raghu and Jannaka in which the son of Kushtika
10:00–10:05was both the giver and the receiver.
10:05–10:12Sita, here are all four brothers after giving the customary gift of cattle.
10:12–10:16Here you have undertaken the marriage vows.
10:16–10:23I feel as though I were there again, as though that very moment were present now.
10:23–10:25Rama.
10:25–10:30My beloved, I too feel that the moment is here again.
10:30–10:40When Godama, delighted, placed in my hand, your hand, shining with its wedding bracelet,
10:40–10:44as though it were the sacred rite of marriage.
10:44–10:46itself embodied.
10:46–10:53Lakshmana, this is you, this other lady is my sister-in-law Mandavi, and this is my wife
10:53–10:55Shukriti.
10:55–11:03Sita, and, dear boy, who is the other young woman?
11:03–11:06Smiling awkwardly, aside.
11:06–11:08Allowed.
11:08–11:15Ah, she must be asking about Ermala. Very well, I shall draw her attention elsewhere.
11:15–11:21Ah, look at this, this is well worth seeing. It is Bhargava. Sita, the very sight of him
11:21–11:22frightens me.
11:22–11:27A little annoyed.
11:27–11:32Looking at him with affection and admiration.
11:32–11:36His eyes fill with tears.
11:36–11:40Without answering, he moves on.
11:40–11:43Laughing aside.
11:43–11:47My reverence, holy sage.
11:47–11:52Lakshmana, look, brother, here you are now.
11:52–11:58Rama, come, there is much else worth seeing.
11:58–12:00Show me another scene.
12:00–12:06Sita, my lord, how becoming that noble modesty is in you.
12:06–12:11Lakshmana, this is the return to Ayodhya.
12:11–12:18Rama, I remember, ah, I remember it all so clearly.
12:18–12:25Those days when father was alive, when our married life was new,
12:25–12:29and our mothers watched over me.
12:29–12:35Those days are gone forever. And here is John Aki as she was then.
12:36–12:44A little girl whose face shone with innocence. Her few new teeth like tiny flowers.
12:45–12:51New shoots appearing in front. After her milk teeth had fallen.
12:51–13:00her delicate little limb so lovely, like pure moonlight, as though nature herself,
13:00–13:08had taught her the art of enchantment. That awaken such wonder in every part of me.
13:08–13:20Lakshmana, this is Manthara. Rama, Queen Vadehi. This is the Ingoody Tree at Sringavarapura,
13:20–13:32where. Long ago, we met our dear friend, the Nishata King. Lakshmana, ah, my brother wants
13:32–13:39to pass over the episode of our middle mother. Sita, this is the occasion when you had to
13:39–13:48bind your hair in a hermit's matted locks. Lakshmana, the vow that the ancient Ikshvaku
13:48–13:57kings assumed. After handing the kingdom to their sons, my brother assumed that vow while
13:57–14:03still young. The sacred vow of forest exile.
14:03–14:12Sita, this is the Bhagyartha, with her clear and holy waters. Rama, goddess, guardian
14:12–14:22deity of Raghu's house, I bow to you. While searching for the horse of Sagra's sacrifice,
14:22–14:32my ancestors dug into the earth with single-minded purpose until the wrathful and mighty Kapila
14:32–14:42reduced them to ashes. Those forefathers of Badjaratha were finally redeemed by Badjaratha's
14:42–14:52fierce austerities. Heedless of his own body. And, holy river, by the touch of your waters
14:52–15:00they were set free. Mother, I pray you, love your daughter-in-law Sita as Arundhati loves
15:00–15:02her.
15:02–15:07This is Shema, the dark banyan, on the bank of the colony, along the road to Chitrakootah,
15:07–15:09Where Barad Vajra directed us.
15:09–15:12Sita, does my lord remember this place?
15:12–15:14Rama, how could I forget?
15:14–15:18The hardship of the journey had left your delicate limbs weary and sore.
15:18–15:21Then, limp as a crushed lotus.
15:21–15:22You laid them in my lap.
15:22–15:25I massage them with firm hands.
15:25–15:27Until you fell into a deep sleep.
15:27–15:31Lakshmana, this is Virata, barring our way at the entrance to the Vindhya forest.
15:31–15:34Sita, no, no more of that.
15:34–15:38Here I see us entering the southern forest, as though it were happening before my eyes,
15:38–15:41my lord holding a parasol of palm leaves above my head.
15:41–15:43Rama.
15:43–15:45These are the groves beside the mountain streams.
15:45–15:48Where ascetics practiced penance beneath the trees.
15:48–15:51And householders seeking peace built their homes.
15:51–15:56Generous to guests though they lived on a single handful of grain each day.
15:56–15:59This is Mount Prasravana in the heart of Janasthana.
15:59–16:04Its caves, embraced by dense forest on every side, echoed with the sound of the Godavari.
16:04–16:08The green-black woodland, thick with trees and undergrowth, was so deep that the mountain's
16:08–16:12natural darkness was made darker still by clouds forever gathering above it.
16:12–16:13Rama.
16:13–16:17My beloved, do you remember the days we spent on that mountain?
16:17–16:19When Lakshmana supplied our every need.
16:19–16:21And the place felt like home?
16:21–16:24Do you remember the clear-flowing Godavari nearby?
16:24–16:27And all our wanderings along its banks?
16:27–16:28And this too?
16:28–16:31Lying cheek against cheek in the depth of love.
16:31–16:34murmuring whatever came to mind in voices scarcely heard,
16:34–16:37holding each other in a close embrace.
16:37–16:39Hours passed without our knowing.
16:39–16:42When dawn came, it seemed that only the night had ended.
16:42–16:46Lakshmana, this is Sherpanaka at Panchavadi.
16:46–16:50Sita, my lord, this is the last time I saw you.
16:50–16:54Her eyes fill, aside,
16:54–16:58watching Rama with concern.
16:58–17:02Come, why be so afraid of separation?
17:02–17:05It is only a picture.
17:05–17:12Sita, a picture, yes, but wicked people can still bring calamity.
17:12–17:20Rama, ah, it feels as though the events at Janasthana were truly happening again.
17:20–17:23Lakshmana.
17:23–17:30those evil roxesses, through the deception of the golden deer. Committed a crime that
17:30–17:39still wounds the heart today. Even though vengeance was complete. My brother's half-mad conduct
17:39–17:48when Janis Thanal a.m.t. could still make stone weep and split a heart of iron.
17:48–17:56See the, ah, my lord, joy of Raghu's house, how much you suffered because of me.
17:56–18:01Lakshmana, brother, what is this now?
18:01–18:04A flood of tears is rising.
18:04–18:13The drops that fall to the ground scatter like a fine string of pearls torn apart.
18:13–18:17You try to master your grief.
18:17–18:25Make your trembling lips and nostrils, and your chest heaving beneath its weight.
18:25–18:29Make your anguish plain to all.
18:29–18:32Aside.
18:32–18:36Looking at the picture, aloud.
18:36–18:44Dear brother, then the fire of grief kindled by separation from my beloved, was fierce
18:44–18:51indeed, but the thirst for vengeance. Made it bearable.
18:51–18:59Now, after smoldering within me without cease, it has become the pain of a wound driven into
18:59–19:09the heart's most tender core. Sita, my lord, in boundless terror I see myself alone, without
19:09–19:15you. Lakshmana, I must turn their thoughts elsewhere.
19:15–19:22This depicts the age-old vulture king, father Jatayu, and his valor.
19:22–19:30Sita, ah, father, you fulfill the father's duty of love toward his daughter.
19:30–19:37Rama, ah, father, king of birds, son of Kashyapa.
19:37–19:42Where shall we ever find another benefactor so great?
19:42–19:50Lachmana, this part of the Dandaka forest west of Janasthana is called Chitrakunjavat.
19:50–19:54Here live the headless demon Kabanda.
19:54–20:01This is the hermitage of the great sage Mithinga on Mount Rishiamukha, and here is the wondrous
20:01–20:06Shabara ascetic, the holy woman Shramani.
20:06–20:10There is the Lotus Lake called Pampa.
20:10–20:17I have heard that it was here my lord could no longer contain his grief and lament it aloud.
20:17–20:22My queen, it was a lake of extraordinary beauty.
20:22–20:28There were masses of white lotuses, their thick stem swayed.
20:28–20:33As the wings of joyfully calling swan stirred them.
20:33–20:43between one falling tear and the next one rising. They all appeared to me as blue lotuses.
20:43–20:46This is the noble Hanuman.
20:46–20:51Yes. This is the great son of the Wind God, whose incomparable service delivered a world
20:51–20:54that had suffered so long.
20:54–21:02All glory to the mighty son of Anjana, whose power secured the welfare of us all and of
21:02–21:05the entire world.
21:05–21:10Dear boy, what is the name of this mountain, where peacocks on blossoming Kadamba trees
21:10–21:12were roused to a wild dance?
21:12–21:17Here my lord is shown beneath a tree, you hold him as tears stream from his eyes.
21:17–21:22He is on the verge of fainting, his natural radiance dimmed, only a remnant of his former
21:22–21:25enchanting splendor left.
21:25–21:29This is Mount Malayavan, filled with the fragrance of Kakuba blossoms.
21:29–21:32Its summit forever dark and wet beneath newly gathered clouds.
21:32–21:34Rama.
21:34–21:36Dear brother, stop, please stop.
21:36–21:38I can bear no more.
21:38–21:42It is as though separation from Jonaki were coming upon me once again.
21:42–21:46Lakshmana, beyond this, brother, are painted the countless marvelous feats of the monkeys
21:46–21:49and rauchesses, each more astonishing than the last.
21:49–21:52But my sister-in-law must be tired, she should rest now.
21:52–21:58Sita, my lord, while looking at these pictures a pregnancy longing has arisen in me.
21:58–22:03I wish to ask one favor of you. Rama, you need only command me.
22:03–22:10I wish to go into a pure, deep forest and bathe in the holy, quiet, cooling waters of the Bajarathi.
22:10–22:17Rama, dear Lakshmana. Lakshmana, command me. Rama, the elders have just ordered that every
22:17–22:24desire of hers be fulfilled at once. Bring a comfortable chariot, with the gentlest motion.
22:24–22:28My lord, will you not come with me too?
22:28–22:31Exit.
22:31–22:33She does so.
22:33–22:36In rapture.
22:36–22:40Cruel hearted woman, did that even need to be asked?
22:40–22:45Sita, I am very happy to hear it.
22:45–22:49Lakshmana, as my brother commands.
22:49–22:54Rama, come, let us sit for a moment in this corner by the window.
22:54–23:04Sita, yes. After walking so much, I truly am tired.
23:04–23:11Rama, then come, put your whole weight upon me, I shall carry you.
23:11–23:17Place your arm around my neck, it gives me new life.
23:17–23:23Your arm, beaded with perspiration from effort and unease.
23:23–23:28like a necklace of moon stones dripping water at the touch of moon beams.
23:28–23:32Beloved, what is this?
23:32–23:40Every touch of yours produces a transformation that cannot be called
23:40–23:50pleasure or pain, fainting or sleep, intoxication or poison spreading through every limb.
23:50–23:59bewilders my senses, awakening and numbing consciousness at once.
23:59–24:06Laughing She looks for somewhere to lie down, pretending
24:06–24:17to fall asleep. She falls asleep. He gazes at her tenderly.
24:17–24:26a doorkeeper. Your love for me has always been unwavering. What else could it be? Rama.
24:26–24:33It makes the withered flower of my life. Bloom again. Renuse my strength. And entrances every
24:33–24:40sense. These sweet words of my lotus-eyed wife. Nectar to the ear, the elixir of life
24:40–24:48to the heart. Sita, sweet-tongued Lord, come, let us rest. Rama, there is no need to look.
24:48–24:54From the moment of our marriage. Whether at home or in the forest. In childhood or in
24:54–25:03youth. This has been your one place of rest. Where no other woman has ever laid her head.
25:03–25:05His arm of Rama.
25:05–25:06Shall be your pillow.
25:06–25:10Sita, it is true, my lord, true.
25:10–25:12Rama, what is this?
25:12–25:17Has my sweet-speaking beloved fallen into a deep sleep upon my breast?
25:17–25:20She is lax me herself dwelling in my house.
25:20–25:23An ambrosial balm for my eyes.
25:23–25:26The touch of a rich sandalwood paste upon my body.
25:26–25:28Her arm about my neck.
25:28–25:31Is a cool, smooth necklace of pearls.
25:31–25:33This is not dear to me and her.
25:33–25:35Accept the agony of separation.
25:35–25:39Doorkeeper, my lord, he is here.
25:39–25:41Here.
25:41–25:43Who is here?
25:43–25:47Your Majesty's personal attendant, Dermotka.
25:47–25:49Aside.
25:49–25:51Allowed.
25:51–25:55Exit Doorkeeper.
25:55–25:59Enter Durmukha.
25:59–26:00aside.
26:00–26:06Durmukha, an attendant of the Inner Palace.
26:06–26:13I appointed him to learn what the people of the city and countryside are saying.
26:13–26:15Admit him.
26:15–26:21Durmukha, how can I tell the King this unspeakable rumor about Queen Sita?
26:21–26:27Yet this burden has fallen upon unfortunate me.
26:27–26:31Crying out in her sleep.
26:31–26:34Kindhearted Lord, where are you?
26:34–26:38He gently caresses her.
26:38–26:46The dreadful fear of separation awakened by the pictures is troubling the Queen's dreams.
26:46–26:49Constancy in joy and sorrow.
26:49–26:53Harmony in every circumstance.
26:53–26:56A place where the heart can rest.
26:56–27:01A sweetness that even old age cannot destroy.
27:01–27:06When time strips away every covering.
27:06–27:11And pure love ripens, what alone remains.
27:11–27:16This incomparable blessing comes only to the good.
27:16–27:20And even then, only through fortune.
27:20–27:23Approaching
27:23–27:26Victory to the King.
27:26–27:29Tell me what you have learned.
27:29–27:34The people of the city and countryside praise your majesty, saying, Lord Rama has made us
27:34–27:38forget even King Doshratha.
27:38–27:41That is mere flattery.
27:41–27:48If you have learned of any fault, tell me, so that it may be corrected.
27:48–27:51His eyes fill with tears.
27:51–27:55He whispers everything in Ramasya.
27:55–27:59Listen, my lord.
27:59–28:01He feigns.
28:01–28:03God above.
28:03–28:09Your words have become a thunderbolt and pierced me to the heart.
28:09–28:13My lord, take hold of yourself.
28:13–28:17Recovering consciousness.
28:17–28:22He thinks, then speaks in anguish.
28:22–28:26He whispers the command.
28:26–28:30No, ah, no.
28:30–28:34The stain of having lived in another man's house.
28:34–28:39That day he had erased by a miraculous means.
28:39–28:44But through a crooked turn of fate it has appeared again.
28:44–28:49Spreading far and wide like the poison of a rabid dog.
28:49–28:54What can Ratchadrama do? What else can I do?
28:54–29:01The vow of a righteous king is to keep his people content by every means.
29:01–29:06My father upheld that vow at the cost of me.
29:06–29:10And, in the end, of his own life.
29:10–29:16And thus Ishta has only now given me the same command.
29:16–29:22Then, if the stainless honor of this house,
29:22–29:28Brightened by the conduct of the mighty ancient kings of the solar line,
29:28–29:33Is sullied by reproach arising from my marriage,
29:33–29:37Then I am surely ruined and condemned.
29:37–29:42O Queen, born from the sacrificial ground,
29:42–29:47By your birth you honored and sanctified Earth herself.
29:47–29:52You brought joy to Janaka and the line of Nimi.
29:52–29:58Fire, Vasishta, and Arundhati have praised your character.
29:58–30:03Rama is your whole life, in the deep forest.
30:03–30:09You were my beloved companion, gentle and measured in speech.
30:09–30:12The darling of my father.
30:12–30:17How can such calamity fall upon such a woman?
30:17–30:21Through you every creature in the world is blessed.
30:21–30:26Yet this accursed rumor has fallen upon you.
30:26–30:30In you the people found a true protector.
30:30–30:34Yet you yourself stand unprotected before destruction.
30:34–30:43Durmakha, tell Lachmana that the inexperienced King Rama has an order for him.
30:43–30:48The Queen, purified before the fire and made Holi astille by carrying the continuance of
30:48–30:52Ragu's line in her womb, how could your Majesty reach such a decision merely on hearing a
30:52–30:55wicked rumor about her?
30:55–30:58Silence.
30:58–31:03How dare you call the people of the city and countryside wicked?
31:03–31:08The Ikshvaka house has earned the people's trust.
31:08–31:12This seed of slander is the fruit of fate.
31:12–31:17And the miraculous event at the time of her purification
31:17–31:22took place in a distant land, who here will believe it.
31:22–31:25Go!
31:25–31:26Exit!
31:26–31:29Oh, my queen!
31:29–31:35He carefully lifts Sita's head and withdraws his arm.
31:35–31:37Rising!
31:37–31:42He lays his head at Sita's feet.
31:42–31:45He weeps.
31:45–31:50Ah! What a loathsome deed I am about to commit!
31:50–31:53How cruel I have become!
31:53–32:04From childhood my tender beloved was nourished on the finest food, and in the depth of our love was never separated from me.
32:04–32:11Today, by deceit, I am delivering her into the hands of death.
32:11–32:17Like a man who cuts the throat of a little bird he has raised and cherished.
32:17–32:27How, then, can I, an outcast, untouchable, dare pollute the queen with my touch?
32:27–32:30Sinless woman, release me.
32:30–32:34I am a chandala capable of anything.
32:34–32:39You thought you rested upon a sandalwood tree.
32:39–32:43Not that you had lain upon a poisonous one.
32:43–32:45God above.
32:45–32:48The world has overturned.
32:48–32:53There is no longer any purpose in Rama's living.
32:53–33:00Suddenly the earth is an empty and desolate forest, life is lifeless, the body mere inert
33:00–33:02matter.
33:02–33:08There is no refuge, what shall I do, where shall I go?
33:08–33:10It seems.
33:10–33:14Rama was given consciousness.
33:14–33:22so that he might feel pain. Life itself is tearing through my heart. As though my body
33:22–33:31had been fastened with iron spikes. Mother Arundhati, Lord Vasishta and Vishwamitra,
33:31–33:37Lord Fire, Goddess Earth who bears all living beings.
33:37–33:45Lord Janaka, my mother's, dear friend King Sugriva, Gentle Hanuman, Vibhishana Lord of
33:45–33:53Lanka, greatest of benefactors, dear friend Trajata, this vile Rama has deceived and dishonored
33:53–33:55you all.
33:55–34:00But who am I now to take your names upon my lips?
34:00–34:06For an ungrateful wretch like me even to speak their names, would be to stain those
34:06–34:16great souls with my sin. I. I remove from my breast the jewel of my house, my beloved
34:16–34:24wife. Who sleeps there unsuspecting, heavy with pregnancy, how anxiously the child
34:24–34:34moved? And cast her mercilessly before dogs like an offering of flesh. My queen, my queen,
34:34–34:40This is the last time Rama will lay his head upon your lotus feet.
34:40–34:44Voice offstage, disaster.
34:44–34:46A terrible disaster.
34:46–34:52Rama, someone find out what has happened.
34:52–34:58A community of great ascetic sages who live along the Yamunoh have come to seek your
34:58–35:03protection, terrified by Lavana.
35:03–35:08He takes a few steps, then turns back.
35:08–35:11Exit Rama.
35:11–35:20In her dream, she wakes suddenly, looks around,
35:20–35:23Enter Durmukha.
35:23–35:25What?
35:25–35:29Is Arakshasa still causing havoc?
35:29–35:34Chitrugna must be sent to destroy Kamanasi's Sun Root and Branch.
35:34–35:41Ah, my Queen, what will become of you in this terrible crisis?
35:41–35:46Holy Earth, protect your helpless daughter, Jonaki.
35:46–35:52The entire good fortune of the houses of Raghu and Janaka.
35:52–35:58The sacred child you brought forth during the Gods holy sacrifice.
35:58–36:02Sita, beloved husband.
36:02–36:04My God!
36:04–36:06I had a dreadful dream.
36:06–36:12I was separated from my Lord, calling for Him and weeping.
36:12–36:17But where has He gone, leaving me asleep and alone?
36:17–36:23When I see Him, I shall show a little anger, if I can command my heart once He stands
36:23–36:25before me.
36:25–36:27Is anyone there?
36:27–36:35Dermukha, your majesty, Prince Lakshmana submits that the chariot is fully prepared and awaits you.
36:35–36:39She rises.
36:40–36:42Accent bought.
36:43–36:48I am ready. The child in my womb keeps moving. I must walk slowly.
36:48–36:51Dermukha, this way, your majesty.
36:51–36:54Sita, I bow to the gods of Raghu's house.
36:55–36:56End of act one.
36:56–37:07interlude to act 2. Enter an ascetic woman dressed as a traveller. Enter the forest goddess
37:07–37:18presenting the offering. They sit. Welcome to the holy lady, ascetic, ah! The forest
37:18–37:25goddess herself has come to attend me, bearing an offering of fruit, flowers and leaves.
37:25–37:33Godess. Take your full enjoyment of this forest. Today is an auspicious day for me. Meeting
37:33–37:41a good person is rare, and comes only as the fruit of merit. The shade of trees, water,
37:41–37:49and food suited to an ascetic. Fruit, roots, and all else are at your service.
37:49–37:51Like, what can I say?
37:51–37:59Affectionate conduct, restrained speech, made sweet by courtesy, a heart naturally disposed
37:59–38:06to goodwill, and service without hesitation, whether offered first or last, its flavour
38:06–38:08never spoils.
38:08–38:11All glory to this secret of the Virtuous.
38:11–38:14Free from deceit and stain.
38:14–38:19Forest goddess, may I know who my honoured guest is?
38:19–38:28to act too. Asetic, I am Atrei. Forest Goddess, Atrei, where have you come from, and for what
38:28–38:31purpose are you wandering through the Dandaka Forest?
38:31–38:39Atrei. Many masters of the essence of the Vedas, Agastya, and others live in this region.
38:39–38:45I have travelled far from Valmiki to learn the knowledge of Vedanta from them. Forest
38:45–38:50goddess, but other sages worship that ancient teacher, the son of
38:50–38:58Prashtas, in order to attain spiritual perfection. Why, then, does the noble lady remain away
38:58–39:05from him? A trey, a very great obstacle has recently arisen in studying near him, and
39:05–39:11for that reason I have accepted this long separation. Forest Goddess. What sort of
39:11–39:12obstacle?
39:12–39:18A god, what a marvelous event it was, once brought two twin boys, newly weaned to Lord
39:18–39:19Valmiki.
39:19–39:25Naturally, the children won his heart, not his alone, but the hearts of every living
39:25–39:27and unmoving thing.
39:27–39:31Forest goddess is anything known of their names.
39:31–39:36Atrei, it is said that the god himself revealed their names, Kusha and Lava, and
39:36–39:38their powers.
39:38–39:40Interlude to act too.
39:40–39:42Forest Goddess, What Powers?
39:42–39:47Atre'i, it is said that from the moment of birth the divine weapons, together with their
39:47–39:51secret spells, were under their command.
39:51–39:53Forest Goddess, Truly Astonishing.
39:53–40:00Atre'i, Valmiki undertook the work of a nurse and reared and cared for both boys.
40:00–40:04After their first tauncher, he formally instructed them in the three branches of learning apart
40:04–40:08from the three Vedas, finally, in their eleventh year.
40:08–40:12He performed their initiation according to the Kshatriya Rite and taught them the three
40:12–40:14sacred sciences.
40:14–40:19It is hardly fitting for ordinary students like us to study beside boys of such brilliant
40:19–40:21intelligence and insight.
40:21–40:234.
40:23–40:28A teacher gives the same knowledge to the dull and the keen, but cannot create or destroy
40:28–40:31their capacity to receive it.
40:31–40:34Therefore the results differ greatly.
40:34–40:37A polished jewel holds a reflection.
40:37–40:40A lump of clay does not.
40:40–40:43Forest goddess is that the obstacle to your studies.
40:43–40:47A tray, there is another as well.
40:47–40:49Interlude to act too.
40:49–40:53Forest goddess, what is it?
40:53–40:57Once the Burmurshi went to the river Tamesa for his midday bath.
40:57–41:02There he saw a hunter kill one bird of a pair of crownches while they were mating.
41:02–41:07the goddess of speech appeared to his mind's eye. Every sound was clear, measured in a
41:07–41:15meter of eight syllables. She found voice in this form. Hunter, through endless time, you
41:15–41:23shall win no honor. Because you killed one bird. Of this crown she pair joined in love.
41:23–41:30Forest goddess, how wondrous, a new incarnation of meter, independent of the Vedas.
41:30–41:34Her eyes filled with tears.
41:34–41:37Alarmed, aside.
41:37–41:40Allowed.
41:40–41:44She whispers in Vasanthi's ear.
41:44–41:47She feints.
41:47–41:51At that moment, when the light of speech's sacred mystery appeared within the sage, the
41:51–41:56lotus-born god, the giver of life to every creature, came to him and said,
41:56–42:01you have attained knowledge of the mystery called speech. Now tell the story of Rama.
42:01–42:07You shall receive the eye of inspiration, a seer's vision whose light never grows dim.
42:07–42:15You are the first poet. Having said this, he vanished. Then the son of Prachatas composed
42:15–42:21the Ramayana, the first revelation in human society of the mystery of speech in the form of history.
42:21–42:27Interlude to Act 2 Forest Goddess, all life itself has been
42:27–42:28enriched.
42:28–42:33Atrei, that is why I spoke of a great impediment to study.
42:33–42:35Forest Goddess, naturally.
42:35–42:40Atrei, good lady, I have rested.
42:40–42:43Now tell me the road to Agastya's Hermitage.
42:43–42:48Forest Goddess, enter Panchavadi from here and continue along the bank of the Godavari.
42:48–42:54Atre'i, is this the celebrated sacred grove of Panchavati?
42:54–42:57Is this river the Godavari, that mountain Prasaravana?
42:57–43:00And are you Vasanti, goddess of Janasthana?
43:00–43:04Vasanti, every word you say is true.
43:04–43:07Atre'i, daughter Janaki.
43:07–43:10All these things were dear to you.
43:10–43:14The subject of countless conversations from moment to moment.
43:14–43:19And today, as I look upon them, it is as though I see you in person.
43:19–43:21Though now nothing remains but your name.
43:21–43:27Vasanti, nothing remains but her name, what does that mean?
43:27–43:30Noble lady, has some calamity befallen Queen Sita.
43:30–43:35Atreyi, not calamity alone, disgrace as well.
43:35–43:37Interlude to Act 2.
43:37–43:40Vasanti, ah.
43:40–43:41What a cruel blow of fate.
43:41–43:45Atreyi, dear lady, take hold of yourself.
43:45–43:53Vasanti, ah, my beloved friend, most honored of women, is this what life has brought you.
43:53–43:57Dear Rama, dear Rama, know enough of your name.
43:57–44:02Atreyi, is there any news of what happened to Sita after Lakshmana left her in the forest
44:02–44:03and returned?
44:03–44:07Atreyi, alas, none at all.
44:07–44:13How terrible! With Ragu's house under the protection of Orondottie and Vesishther, and the aged
44:13–44:18Queen Mother is still alive, how could this happen? A tray! At that time the elders were
44:18–44:24at Rishishringer's Hermitage. The twelve-year sacrifice has now ended. Rishishringer was
44:24–44:27preparing to send them away with due honour when Orondottie said,
44:27–44:31Yeah, I will not return to Ironhire without my daughter-in-law.
44:31–44:36Rammer's mothers agreed. In accordance with Orondottie's wish, Vesishther too wisely
44:36–44:41advised that they should all go and live in Valmiki's sacred grove. Vasanti, what is
44:41–44:48the king doing? A tray. The king has begun a horse sacrifice. Vasanti, God above, has
44:48–44:51he then taken another wife?
44:51–45:01Harise Phil, with affection and wonder. They turn and exit together.
45:01–45:04May the Lord never do such a thing, never.
45:04–45:06Interlude to Act 2.
45:06–45:10Vasanti, then who is his consecrated wife at the sacrifice?
45:10–45:14Atreyi, a golden image of Sita.
45:14–45:17Vasanti, ah.
45:17–45:21Who can understand the heart of such an extraordinary man?
45:21–45:23At once harder than steel.
45:23–45:26And far softer than a flower.
45:26–45:31Atreey, after Vamadeva's formal blessing, the sacrificial horse was released and its
45:31–45:37guardians appointed according to scripture. Chandraketu, Lakshmana's son, who has inherited
45:37–45:43the lineage of divine weapons, commands them. He has been sent ahead with the fourfold army.
45:44–45:50Vasanti, Prince Lakshmana has a son too. Mother, that news gives me strength.
45:50–45:57Atre'i, amid all these events, a Brahmin laid his dead son at the palace gate, beat his breast,
45:57–46:00and cried, disaster.
46:00–46:05Dear Rama, compassion embodied, reflected that no untimely death could occur among his
46:05–46:08subjects unless there were some fault in the king.
46:08–46:14Then a voice from the sky declared, Somewhere on earth a low-born man named Shambhuka
46:14–46:16is practicing austerities.
46:16–46:23Rama, cut off his head, only by killing him will the Brahmin's son live again.
46:23–46:25Interlude to Act 2
46:25–46:29On hearing this, the Lord of the world took sword in hand, mounted the Pushpaka aerial
46:29–46:34chariot, and set out to search in every direction for the Shudra ascetic.
46:34–46:40Vasanti, here in Janasthana itself, a Shudra named Shambhuka, is performing penance by
46:40–46:42inhaling smoke.
46:42–46:45If only dear Rama might adorn this forest once again.
46:45–46:49Atre'i, dear lady, I must leave now.
46:49–46:56Vasanti, very well, Atre'i, though the day has become unbearably hot.
46:56–47:01The trees dwelling on the riverbank worship the Godavari with offerings of flowers.
47:01–47:05When elephants come to rub their itching cheeks against them.
47:05–47:09Masses of blossoms fall from stems softened by the heat.
47:09–47:14In the shade, birds tear at the bark and pick insects out with their beaks.
47:14–47:18While doves and jungle fell grown in the oppressive heat.
47:18–47:19End of the interlude.

Plain text

At rise Rama is seated with Sita beside him. Enter the chamberlain. He stops, then speaks with formal concern. Rama, Queen Vaidehi, please do not grieve. It was not easy for the elders to leave us. But the unbroken burden of daily sacred rites sets limits on human freedom. For those devoted to religion, domestic life is full of obligations. Sita, I understand, My Lord, I understand. And yet separation from those we love brings such sorrow. Rama, true, these stages of life tear the tenderest fibers of the heart and awaken in a sensitive person such detachment that he longs to renounce every pleasure and seek peace in the forest. Chamberlain, Dear Rama, Your Majesty, Rama, Good Sir, Not So. From one who served in my father's household, Dear Rama, is entirely proper. Speak to me as you did before. Chamberlain, Ashutva Kriya has arrived from Rishishringas Hermitage. Sita, then why delay? Good sir. Exit Chamberlain. Enter Ashtavakra. Sitting. Bring him in at once. Ashtavakra, blessings upon you both. Rama, my reverence, holy sir. Please be seated. Sita, my reverence. Are my elders and my sister-in-law Shanta? Well. Rama, are my soma drinking brother-in-law Rishya Sringa and my sister Shanta both well? Sita, did they remember us? Ash-tavakra, certainly. Your Majesty, Vasishtha sends you this message. Virtuous earth, who bears all things. Herself gave you birth. King Janaka, the equal of the Creator. Is your father. And my daughter, you are the daughter-in-law. of a royal house that has two spiritual guides, ourselves, and the sun God himself. What more can we wish for you than the birth of a heroic son? Rama, I am deeply honored. In ordinary life, a good man's words conform to fact. But in the case of a primeval seer, fact itself, conforms to his word. Orondotti, the queen mother's, and Shanta have issued this emphatic command. Whatever seated desires during her pregnancy must be granted without delay. Whatever she asks, I shall fulfill. Shishringa, the queen's brother-in-law. Said this, my daughter, because your pregnancy is so advanced. You have not been summoned here. Dear Rama, has been charged only with keeping you happy. I hope soon to see you safe and well, with your son in your arms. Smiling with joy and modest embarrassment. So be it. Did Vasishtha send no message for me, listen, we are detained. At your brother-in-law's sacrifice, you are still young and your reign has only just begun. Devote yourself to the happiness of your people. For a stainless This reputation is a treasure. More precious than life. The son of Maitra and Varna shall be obeyed. Affection, compassion, happiness, not only these, even Jhanaki herself. I would surrender, without a moment's hesitation, for the happiness of my people. That is why my lord is the mainstay of the house of Ragu. Is anyone there? See that Ashdavakra is given a place to rest. Rises and turns. Exit. Enter Lakshman. Ah, Prince Lakshman has arrived. Okshmano, victory to my brother! The painter has completed the story of your life in the picture gallery exactly as we described it. My sister-in-law is invited to see it. Dear brother, you have a gift for finding ways to lift the queen's sorrow. How far does the story go? As far as my sister-in-law's purification by fire. They rise and move forward. Looking Silence. She who was perfectly pure from birth. What need had she of purification? Pure water and fire cannot themselves be purified. By any other means. Dear Queen, born from the sacrificial ground, forgive me. I shall remain humble before you all my life. Those for whom family honor is true wealth must satisfy even their critics. The unrighteous demand I made under pressure of public opinion was one I never wished to make of you. One knows that a rare and fragrant flower belongs as the crowning ornament upon the head, not crushed beneath the feet. Sita, let it be, my lord, let it be. Come, let us see the story of your life. Lakshmana, the mural is this way. Sita, who are those beings gathered above in this scene? They seem to be singing my lord's praises. Lakshmana, they are the divine weapons called Trimbaka, together with their secret spells. Krishashva gave them to Kaushika Vishwamitra, friend of the world, and, after my brother slew to Taka, Bhishwamitra bestowed them upon him. Rama, my Queen, bow to the Divine Weapons. For the welfare of the Vedic faith, Brahma and the other Gods practiced austerities for more than a thousand years. These weapons are the embodied power of that penance. Which the ancient masters were able to behold. I bow to them. Rama, they will surely serve your children one day. Sita, I am blessed. This is the episode in Medi-la. Sita, ah, there is my lord. He has broken Shiva's bow with effortless ease, while my father gazes upon his gentle radiance, almost speechless with wonder at the beauty of his form, dark as a blue lotus in full bloom, soft and smooth, yet firm and strong, his head adorned only by the simple grace of a single top knot. Lakshmana, look here. Your father bows to his new kinsmen, Vasishtha and the others. And Shatna and Agadama, the family priest. Of all the kings of Janaka's line, bows as well. This scene is truly worth seeing. would not welcome the union of the houses of Raghu and Jannaka in which the son of Kushtika was both the giver and the receiver. Sita, here are all four brothers after giving the customary gift of cattle. Here you have undertaken the marriage vows. I feel as though I were there again, as though that very moment were present now. Rama. My beloved, I too feel that the moment is here again. When Godama, delighted, placed in my hand, your hand, shining with its wedding bracelet, as though it were the sacred rite of marriage. itself embodied. Lakshmana, this is you, this other lady is my sister-in-law Mandavi, and this is my wife Shukriti. Sita, and, dear boy, who is the other young woman? Smiling awkwardly, aside. Allowed. Ah, she must be asking about Ermala. Very well, I shall draw her attention elsewhere. Ah, look at this, this is well worth seeing. It is Bhargava. Sita, the very sight of him frightens me. A little annoyed. Looking at him with affection and admiration. His eyes fill with tears. Without answering, he moves on. Laughing aside. My reverence, holy sage. Lakshmana, look, brother, here you are now. Rama, come, there is much else worth seeing. Show me another scene. Sita, my lord, how becoming that noble modesty is in you. Lakshmana, this is the return to Ayodhya. Rama, I remember, ah, I remember it all so clearly. Those days when father was alive, when our married life was new, and our mothers watched over me. Those days are gone forever. And here is John Aki as she was then. A little girl whose face shone with innocence. Her few new teeth like tiny flowers. New shoots appearing in front. After her milk teeth had fallen. her delicate little limb so lovely, like pure moonlight, as though nature herself, had taught her the art of enchantment. That awaken such wonder in every part of me. Lakshmana, this is Manthara. Rama, Queen Vadehi. This is the Ingoody Tree at Sringavarapura, where. Long ago, we met our dear friend, the Nishata King. Lakshmana, ah, my brother wants to pass over the episode of our middle mother. Sita, this is the occasion when you had to bind your hair in a hermit's matted locks. Lakshmana, the vow that the ancient Ikshvaku kings assumed. After handing the kingdom to their sons, my brother assumed that vow while still young. The sacred vow of forest exile. Sita, this is the Bhagyartha, with her clear and holy waters. Rama, goddess, guardian deity of Raghu's house, I bow to you. While searching for the horse of Sagra's sacrifice, my ancestors dug into the earth with single-minded purpose until the wrathful and mighty Kapila reduced them to ashes. Those forefathers of Badjaratha were finally redeemed by Badjaratha's fierce austerities. Heedless of his own body. And, holy river, by the touch of your waters they were set free. Mother, I pray you, love your daughter-in-law Sita as Arundhati loves her. This is Shema, the dark banyan, on the bank of the colony, along the road to Chitrakootah, Where Barad Vajra directed us. Sita, does my lord remember this place? Rama, how could I forget? The hardship of the journey had left your delicate limbs weary and sore. Then, limp as a crushed lotus. You laid them in my lap. I massage them with firm hands. Until you fell into a deep sleep. Lakshmana, this is Virata, barring our way at the entrance to the Vindhya forest. Sita, no, no more of that. Here I see us entering the southern forest, as though it were happening before my eyes, my lord holding a parasol of palm leaves above my head. Rama. These are the groves beside the mountain streams. Where ascetics practiced penance beneath the trees. And householders seeking peace built their homes. Generous to guests though they lived on a single handful of grain each day. This is Mount Prasravana in the heart of Janasthana. Its caves, embraced by dense forest on every side, echoed with the sound of the Godavari. The green-black woodland, thick with trees and undergrowth, was so deep that the mountain's natural darkness was made darker still by clouds forever gathering above it. Rama. My beloved, do you remember the days we spent on that mountain? When Lakshmana supplied our every need. And the place felt like home? Do you remember the clear-flowing Godavari nearby? And all our wanderings along its banks? And this too? Lying cheek against cheek in the depth of love. murmuring whatever came to mind in voices scarcely heard, holding each other in a close embrace. Hours passed without our knowing. When dawn came, it seemed that only the night had ended. Lakshmana, this is Sherpanaka at Panchavadi. Sita, my lord, this is the last time I saw you. Her eyes fill, aside, watching Rama with concern. Come, why be so afraid of separation? It is only a picture. Sita, a picture, yes, but wicked people can still bring calamity. Rama, ah, it feels as though the events at Janasthana were truly happening again. Lakshmana. those evil roxesses, through the deception of the golden deer. Committed a crime that still wounds the heart today. Even though vengeance was complete. My brother's half-mad conduct when Janis Thanal a.m.t. could still make stone weep and split a heart of iron. See the, ah, my lord, joy of Raghu's house, how much you suffered because of me. Lakshmana, brother, what is this now? A flood of tears is rising. The drops that fall to the ground scatter like a fine string of pearls torn apart. You try to master your grief. Make your trembling lips and nostrils, and your chest heaving beneath its weight. Make your anguish plain to all. Aside. Looking at the picture, aloud. Dear brother, then the fire of grief kindled by separation from my beloved, was fierce indeed, but the thirst for vengeance. Made it bearable. Now, after smoldering within me without cease, it has become the pain of a wound driven into the heart's most tender core. Sita, my lord, in boundless terror I see myself alone, without you. Lakshmana, I must turn their thoughts elsewhere. This depicts the age-old vulture king, father Jatayu, and his valor. Sita, ah, father, you fulfill the father's duty of love toward his daughter. Rama, ah, father, king of birds, son of Kashyapa. Where shall we ever find another benefactor so great? Lachmana, this part of the Dandaka forest west of Janasthana is called Chitrakunjavat. Here live the headless demon Kabanda. This is the hermitage of the great sage Mithinga on Mount Rishiamukha, and here is the wondrous Shabara ascetic, the holy woman Shramani. There is the Lotus Lake called Pampa. I have heard that it was here my lord could no longer contain his grief and lament it aloud. My queen, it was a lake of extraordinary beauty. There were masses of white lotuses, their thick stem swayed. As the wings of joyfully calling swan stirred them. between one falling tear and the next one rising. They all appeared to me as blue lotuses. This is the noble Hanuman. Yes. This is the great son of the Wind God, whose incomparable service delivered a world that had suffered so long. All glory to the mighty son of Anjana, whose power secured the welfare of us all and of the entire world. Dear boy, what is the name of this mountain, where peacocks on blossoming Kadamba trees were roused to a wild dance? Here my lord is shown beneath a tree, you hold him as tears stream from his eyes. He is on the verge of fainting, his natural radiance dimmed, only a remnant of his former enchanting splendor left. This is Mount Malayavan, filled with the fragrance of Kakuba blossoms. Its summit forever dark and wet beneath newly gathered clouds. Rama. Dear brother, stop, please stop. I can bear no more. It is as though separation from Jonaki were coming upon me once again. Lakshmana, beyond this, brother, are painted the countless marvelous feats of the monkeys and rauchesses, each more astonishing than the last. But my sister-in-law must be tired, she should rest now. Sita, my lord, while looking at these pictures a pregnancy longing has arisen in me. I wish to ask one favor of you. Rama, you need only command me. I wish to go into a pure, deep forest and bathe in the holy, quiet, cooling waters of the Bajarathi. Rama, dear Lakshmana. Lakshmana, command me. Rama, the elders have just ordered that every desire of hers be fulfilled at once. Bring a comfortable chariot, with the gentlest motion. My lord, will you not come with me too? Exit. She does so. In rapture. Cruel hearted woman, did that even need to be asked? Sita, I am very happy to hear it. Lakshmana, as my brother commands. Rama, come, let us sit for a moment in this corner by the window. Sita, yes. After walking so much, I truly am tired. Rama, then come, put your whole weight upon me, I shall carry you. Place your arm around my neck, it gives me new life. Your arm, beaded with perspiration from effort and unease. like a necklace of moon stones dripping water at the touch of moon beams. Beloved, what is this? Every touch of yours produces a transformation that cannot be called pleasure or pain, fainting or sleep, intoxication or poison spreading through every limb. bewilders my senses, awakening and numbing consciousness at once. Laughing She looks for somewhere to lie down, pretending to fall asleep. She falls asleep. He gazes at her tenderly. a doorkeeper. Your love for me has always been unwavering. What else could it be? Rama. It makes the withered flower of my life. Bloom again. Renuse my strength. And entrances every sense. These sweet words of my lotus-eyed wife. Nectar to the ear, the elixir of life to the heart. Sita, sweet-tongued Lord, come, let us rest. Rama, there is no need to look. From the moment of our marriage. Whether at home or in the forest. In childhood or in youth. This has been your one place of rest. Where no other woman has ever laid her head. His arm of Rama. Shall be your pillow. Sita, it is true, my lord, true. Rama, what is this? Has my sweet-speaking beloved fallen into a deep sleep upon my breast? She is lax me herself dwelling in my house. An ambrosial balm for my eyes. The touch of a rich sandalwood paste upon my body. Her arm about my neck. Is a cool, smooth necklace of pearls. This is not dear to me and her. Accept the agony of separation. Doorkeeper, my lord, he is here. Here. Who is here? Your Majesty's personal attendant, Dermotka. Aside. Allowed. Exit Doorkeeper. Enter Durmukha. aside. Durmukha, an attendant of the Inner Palace. I appointed him to learn what the people of the city and countryside are saying. Admit him. Durmukha, how can I tell the King this unspeakable rumor about Queen Sita? Yet this burden has fallen upon unfortunate me. Crying out in her sleep. Kindhearted Lord, where are you? He gently caresses her. The dreadful fear of separation awakened by the pictures is troubling the Queen's dreams. Constancy in joy and sorrow. Harmony in every circumstance. A place where the heart can rest. A sweetness that even old age cannot destroy. When time strips away every covering. And pure love ripens, what alone remains. This incomparable blessing comes only to the good. And even then, only through fortune. Approaching Victory to the King. Tell me what you have learned. The people of the city and countryside praise your majesty, saying, Lord Rama has made us forget even King Doshratha. That is mere flattery. If you have learned of any fault, tell me, so that it may be corrected. His eyes fill with tears. He whispers everything in Ramasya. Listen, my lord. He feigns. God above. Your words have become a thunderbolt and pierced me to the heart. My lord, take hold of yourself. Recovering consciousness. He thinks, then speaks in anguish. He whispers the command. No, ah, no. The stain of having lived in another man's house. That day he had erased by a miraculous means. But through a crooked turn of fate it has appeared again. Spreading far and wide like the poison of a rabid dog. What can Ratchadrama do? What else can I do? The vow of a righteous king is to keep his people content by every means. My father upheld that vow at the cost of me. And, in the end, of his own life. And thus Ishta has only now given me the same command. Then, if the stainless honor of this house, Brightened by the conduct of the mighty ancient kings of the solar line, Is sullied by reproach arising from my marriage, Then I am surely ruined and condemned. O Queen, born from the sacrificial ground, By your birth you honored and sanctified Earth herself. You brought joy to Janaka and the line of Nimi. Fire, Vasishta, and Arundhati have praised your character. Rama is your whole life, in the deep forest. You were my beloved companion, gentle and measured in speech. The darling of my father. How can such calamity fall upon such a woman? Through you every creature in the world is blessed. Yet this accursed rumor has fallen upon you. In you the people found a true protector. Yet you yourself stand unprotected before destruction. Durmakha, tell Lachmana that the inexperienced King Rama has an order for him. The Queen, purified before the fire and made Holi astille by carrying the continuance of Ragu's line in her womb, how could your Majesty reach such a decision merely on hearing a wicked rumor about her? Silence. How dare you call the people of the city and countryside wicked? The Ikshvaka house has earned the people's trust. This seed of slander is the fruit of fate. And the miraculous event at the time of her purification took place in a distant land, who here will believe it. Go! Exit! Oh, my queen! He carefully lifts Sita's head and withdraws his arm. Rising! He lays his head at Sita's feet. He weeps. Ah! What a loathsome deed I am about to commit! How cruel I have become! From childhood my tender beloved was nourished on the finest food, and in the depth of our love was never separated from me. Today, by deceit, I am delivering her into the hands of death. Like a man who cuts the throat of a little bird he has raised and cherished. How, then, can I, an outcast, untouchable, dare pollute the queen with my touch? Sinless woman, release me. I am a chandala capable of anything. You thought you rested upon a sandalwood tree. Not that you had lain upon a poisonous one. God above. The world has overturned. There is no longer any purpose in Rama's living. Suddenly the earth is an empty and desolate forest, life is lifeless, the body mere inert matter. There is no refuge, what shall I do, where shall I go? It seems. Rama was given consciousness. so that he might feel pain. Life itself is tearing through my heart. As though my body had been fastened with iron spikes. Mother Arundhati, Lord Vasishta and Vishwamitra, Lord Fire, Goddess Earth who bears all living beings. Lord Janaka, my mother's, dear friend King Sugriva, Gentle Hanuman, Vibhishana Lord of Lanka, greatest of benefactors, dear friend Trajata, this vile Rama has deceived and dishonored you all. But who am I now to take your names upon my lips? For an ungrateful wretch like me even to speak their names, would be to stain those great souls with my sin. I. I remove from my breast the jewel of my house, my beloved wife. Who sleeps there unsuspecting, heavy with pregnancy, how anxiously the child moved? And cast her mercilessly before dogs like an offering of flesh. My queen, my queen, This is the last time Rama will lay his head upon your lotus feet. Voice offstage, disaster. A terrible disaster. Rama, someone find out what has happened. A community of great ascetic sages who live along the Yamunoh have come to seek your protection, terrified by Lavana. He takes a few steps, then turns back. Exit Rama. In her dream, she wakes suddenly, looks around, Enter Durmukha. What? Is Arakshasa still causing havoc? Chitrugna must be sent to destroy Kamanasi's Sun Root and Branch. Ah, my Queen, what will become of you in this terrible crisis? Holy Earth, protect your helpless daughter, Jonaki. The entire good fortune of the houses of Raghu and Janaka. The sacred child you brought forth during the Gods holy sacrifice. Sita, beloved husband. My God! I had a dreadful dream. I was separated from my Lord, calling for Him and weeping. But where has He gone, leaving me asleep and alone? When I see Him, I shall show a little anger, if I can command my heart once He stands before me. Is anyone there? Dermukha, your majesty, Prince Lakshmana submits that the chariot is fully prepared and awaits you. She rises. Accent bought. I am ready. The child in my womb keeps moving. I must walk slowly. Dermukha, this way, your majesty. Sita, I bow to the gods of Raghu's house. End of act one. interlude to act 2. Enter an ascetic woman dressed as a traveller. Enter the forest goddess presenting the offering. They sit. Welcome to the holy lady, ascetic, ah! The forest goddess herself has come to attend me, bearing an offering of fruit, flowers and leaves. Godess. Take your full enjoyment of this forest. Today is an auspicious day for me. Meeting a good person is rare, and comes only as the fruit of merit. The shade of trees, water, and food suited to an ascetic. Fruit, roots, and all else are at your service. Like, what can I say? Affectionate conduct, restrained speech, made sweet by courtesy, a heart naturally disposed to goodwill, and service without hesitation, whether offered first or last, its flavour never spoils. All glory to this secret of the Virtuous. Free from deceit and stain. Forest goddess, may I know who my honoured guest is? to act too. Asetic, I am Atrei. Forest Goddess, Atrei, where have you come from, and for what purpose are you wandering through the Dandaka Forest? Atrei. Many masters of the essence of the Vedas, Agastya, and others live in this region. I have travelled far from Valmiki to learn the knowledge of Vedanta from them. Forest goddess, but other sages worship that ancient teacher, the son of Prashtas, in order to attain spiritual perfection. Why, then, does the noble lady remain away from him? A trey, a very great obstacle has recently arisen in studying near him, and for that reason I have accepted this long separation. Forest Goddess. What sort of obstacle? A god, what a marvelous event it was, once brought two twin boys, newly weaned to Lord Valmiki. Naturally, the children won his heart, not his alone, but the hearts of every living and unmoving thing. Forest goddess is anything known of their names. Atrei, it is said that the god himself revealed their names, Kusha and Lava, and their powers. Interlude to act too. Forest Goddess, What Powers? Atre'i, it is said that from the moment of birth the divine weapons, together with their secret spells, were under their command. Forest Goddess, Truly Astonishing. Atre'i, Valmiki undertook the work of a nurse and reared and cared for both boys. After their first tauncher, he formally instructed them in the three branches of learning apart from the three Vedas, finally, in their eleventh year. He performed their initiation according to the Kshatriya Rite and taught them the three sacred sciences. It is hardly fitting for ordinary students like us to study beside boys of such brilliant intelligence and insight. 4. A teacher gives the same knowledge to the dull and the keen, but cannot create or destroy their capacity to receive it. Therefore the results differ greatly. A polished jewel holds a reflection. A lump of clay does not. Forest goddess is that the obstacle to your studies. A tray, there is another as well. Interlude to act too. Forest goddess, what is it? Once the Burmurshi went to the river Tamesa for his midday bath. There he saw a hunter kill one bird of a pair of crownches while they were mating. the goddess of speech appeared to his mind's eye. Every sound was clear, measured in a meter of eight syllables. She found voice in this form. Hunter, through endless time, you shall win no honor. Because you killed one bird. Of this crown she pair joined in love. Forest goddess, how wondrous, a new incarnation of meter, independent of the Vedas. Her eyes filled with tears. Alarmed, aside. Allowed. She whispers in Vasanthi's ear. She feints. At that moment, when the light of speech's sacred mystery appeared within the sage, the lotus-born god, the giver of life to every creature, came to him and said, you have attained knowledge of the mystery called speech. Now tell the story of Rama. You shall receive the eye of inspiration, a seer's vision whose light never grows dim. You are the first poet. Having said this, he vanished. Then the son of Prachatas composed the Ramayana, the first revelation in human society of the mystery of speech in the form of history. Interlude to Act 2 Forest Goddess, all life itself has been enriched. Atrei, that is why I spoke of a great impediment to study. Forest Goddess, naturally. Atrei, good lady, I have rested. Now tell me the road to Agastya's Hermitage. Forest Goddess, enter Panchavadi from here and continue along the bank of the Godavari. Atre'i, is this the celebrated sacred grove of Panchavati? Is this river the Godavari, that mountain Prasaravana? And are you Vasanti, goddess of Janasthana? Vasanti, every word you say is true. Atre'i, daughter Janaki. All these things were dear to you. The subject of countless conversations from moment to moment. And today, as I look upon them, it is as though I see you in person. Though now nothing remains but your name. Vasanti, nothing remains but her name, what does that mean? Noble lady, has some calamity befallen Queen Sita. Atreyi, not calamity alone, disgrace as well. Interlude to Act 2. Vasanti, ah. What a cruel blow of fate. Atreyi, dear lady, take hold of yourself. Vasanti, ah, my beloved friend, most honored of women, is this what life has brought you. Dear Rama, dear Rama, know enough of your name. Atreyi, is there any news of what happened to Sita after Lakshmana left her in the forest and returned? Atreyi, alas, none at all. How terrible! With Ragu's house under the protection of Orondottie and Vesishther, and the aged Queen Mother is still alive, how could this happen? A tray! At that time the elders were at Rishishringer's Hermitage. The twelve-year sacrifice has now ended. Rishishringer was preparing to send them away with due honour when Orondottie said, Yeah, I will not return to Ironhire without my daughter-in-law. Rammer's mothers agreed. In accordance with Orondottie's wish, Vesishther too wisely advised that they should all go and live in Valmiki's sacred grove. Vasanti, what is the king doing? A tray. The king has begun a horse sacrifice. Vasanti, God above, has he then taken another wife? Harise Phil, with affection and wonder. They turn and exit together. May the Lord never do such a thing, never. Interlude to Act 2. Vasanti, then who is his consecrated wife at the sacrifice? Atreyi, a golden image of Sita. Vasanti, ah. Who can understand the heart of such an extraordinary man? At once harder than steel. And far softer than a flower. Atreey, after Vamadeva's formal blessing, the sacrificial horse was released and its guardians appointed according to scripture. Chandraketu, Lakshmana's son, who has inherited the lineage of divine weapons, commands them. He has been sent ahead with the fourfold army. Vasanti, Prince Lakshmana has a son too. Mother, that news gives me strength. Atre'i, amid all these events, a Brahmin laid his dead son at the palace gate, beat his breast, and cried, disaster. Dear Rama, compassion embodied, reflected that no untimely death could occur among his subjects unless there were some fault in the king. Then a voice from the sky declared, Somewhere on earth a low-born man named Shambhuka is practicing austerities. Rama, cut off his head, only by killing him will the Brahmin's son live again. Interlude to Act 2 On hearing this, the Lord of the world took sword in hand, mounted the Pushpaka aerial chariot, and set out to search in every direction for the Shudra ascetic. Vasanti, here in Janasthana itself, a Shudra named Shambhuka, is performing penance by inhaling smoke. If only dear Rama might adorn this forest once again. Atre'i, dear lady, I must leave now. Vasanti, very well, Atre'i, though the day has become unbearably hot. The trees dwelling on the riverbank worship the Godavari with offerings of flowers. When elephants come to rub their itching cheeks against them. Masses of blossoms fall from stems softened by the heat. In the shade, birds tear at the bark and pick insects out with their beaks. While doves and jungle fell grown in the oppressive heat. End of the interlude.

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