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Abhijnanashakuntalam_Radio_Play.mp4

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Part 10 · VIDEHA MITHILA MAITHILI DISCUSSION CRITICISM SERIES PART 10

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1. 0:02–0:08KALADASA'S ORIGINAL SANSKRIT PLAY, अभिजना नाश्व कुन्तलम,
2. 0:08–0:14translated from Sanskrit into मैटिली बाजगज़िंद्र ताकूर,
3. 0:14–0:17अभिजना नाश्व कुन्तलम,
4. 0:17–0:20the recognition of शकन्ताला,
5. 0:20–0:24the great poet KALADASA,
6. 0:24–0:27Dramatis personae,
7. 0:27–0:31in order of appearance on stage,
8. 0:31–0:33P-R-O-L-O-G-U-E
9. 0:34–0:39May the Gracious Lord protect us through His eight manifest forms.
10. 0:40–0:45The Creator's first creation, which receives the sacrificial offering,
11. 0:46–0:48the offering itself,
12. 0:49–0:50the Sacrificer,
13. 0:51–0:55the two powers that ordain the course of time,
14. 0:56–0:59the all-pervading element perceived by the ear,
15. 0:59–1:08That which is called the source of every seed and that which gives the breath of life to all living beings.
16. 1:08–1:10Asterisk.
17. 1:10–1:13The invocation ends.
18. 1:13–1:19Madam, is everyone ready for their part? The actress enters.
19. 1:19–1:24Sir, I am here. What are your instructions?
20. 1:24–1:30Nearly everyone in this assembly is a discerning and accomplished lover of drama.
21. 1:30–1:34We are to entertain them with a new play by Caladasa.
22. 1:34–1:39Every role must therefore be performed with the greatest care.
23. 1:39–1:44With your skillful direction, nothing can possibly go wrong.
24. 1:44–1:50Madam, let me tell you a truth. Until the learned are satisfied,
25. 1:50–1:54I can never be confident of my skill as a director.
26. 1:54–2:00Even the heart of one who has rehearsed with devotion is troubled by self-doubt.
27. 2:00–2:06That is perfectly true. Now tell me, sir, what comes next?
28. 2:06–2:12What could delight the ears of this gathering more than a song describing the pleasures of the
29. 2:12–2:15summer that has just begun? For now,
30. 2:15–2:19these are the days when plunging into cool water is a joy.
31. 2:19–2:23When the woodland breeze is scented by trumpet flowers,
32. 2:23–2:27When sleep comes easily beneath deep shade,
33. 2:27–2:31And evening falls with exquisite charm.
34. 2:31–2:37As you command, tender-hearted women adorn themselves with Sharisha blossoms.
35. 2:37–2:42Whose exquisitely delicate stamens are be kisses only for a moment.
36. 2:42–2:44Beautifully sung,
37. 2:44–2:51The sweetness of your song has held the entire audience around us so still that they seem figures.
38. 2:51–2:58Painted in a picture. Now tell me, what play shall we perform for their pleasure?
39. 2:58–3:05Sir, did you not say at the outset that we were to present the new play called Abhijnan Asha Kuntalam?
40. 3:05–3:08The Recognition of Shakuntala.
41. 3:08–3:17Madam, you have reminded me just in time. The matter had slipped from my mind this very moment. And why?
42. 3:17–3:22The enchanting melody of your song carried me helplessly away with it.
43. 3:22–3:32Just as King Dushyanta here has been carried away in pursuit of a fleet-footed deer. They both exit. The prologue ends.
44. 3:32–3:44King D. USHYANTA enters in a chariot, bow in hand, pursuing a deer. His charioteer is with him.
45. 3:44–3:53Your Majesty, when I see that deer in you with your bow drawn, it is as though before my very eyes I behold Shiva,
46. 3:53–3:58bearer of the Panakka bow, racing after the sacred antelope.
47. 3:58–4:06charioteer. This blackbuck has led us a very long way. Even now he turns his head again
48. 4:06–4:13and again to watch the chariot behind him, his neck bending with graceful ease. From
49. 4:13–4:20fear of the arrow he gathers his hindquarters into the fore part of his body. Exhausted.
50. 4:20–4:27He runs with his mouth open, dropping half-chewed grass from his lips and scattering it all
51. 4:27–4:34along the track. Look! With every soaring bound he scarcely touches the earth. As though he
52. 4:34–4:41traveled more through air than over ground. What is this? We are close upon him. Yet he
53. 4:41–4:45is vanishing beyond the reach of sight.
54. 4:45–4:51Your Majesty, the ground was rough and broken. I held the reins tight and slowed the chariot.
55. 4:51–4:54That is why the deer gained some distance.
56. 4:54–4:56The land is level now.
57. 4:56–5:00You will have no difficulty overtaking him.
58. 5:00–5:02Give the horses their heads.
59. 5:02–5:10As your majesty commands, your majesty, look, look, the instant the rains are loosened.
60. 5:10–5:13These horses stretch their bodies to their fullest length.
61. 5:13–5:17The yak tail plumes upon their heads scarcely stir.
62. 5:17–5:23Their ears stand rigid, and they race beyond even the dust they themselves have raised,
63. 5:23–5:27as though they cannot endure to be outstripped by the deer."
64. 5:27–5:28Truly.
65. 5:28–5:32These horses are outstripping even the steeds of Indra.
66. 5:32–5:334.
67. 5:33–5:38What looked small to the ice-wells to greatness in an instant?
68. 5:38–5:42What is in reality divided in two appears to join as one.
69. 5:42–5:46What is naturally crooked seems perfectly straight.
70. 5:46–5:53At the speed of this chariot, nothing remains far from me, and nothing near me can remain
71. 5:53–5:54still.
72. 5:54–5:59Your Majesty, hermits have stepped between you and the blackbuck at which your arrow
73. 5:59–6:01is aimed.
74. 6:01–6:04Then stop the horses.
75. 6:04–6:05I am stopping them.
76. 6:05–6:08A hermit enters with two companions.
77. 6:08–6:10Oh, King!
78. 6:10–6:11Oh, King!
79. 6:11–6:14This is a deer of the hermitage.
80. 6:14–6:16One of the hermitage deer.
81. 6:16–6:20Therefore draw back the arrow you have aimed so surely.
82. 6:20–6:26Your weapons are meant to protect the afflicted, not to strike the innocent.
83. 6:26–6:29I have withdrawn the arrow.
84. 6:29–6:36Well done. Oh, King! Such conduct is worthy of a descendant of Puru.
85. 6:36–6:40May you be blessed with a son who will become a sovereign emperor.
86. 6:40–6:44I gladly accept to her its blessing.
87. 6:44–6:53We have come out to gather firewood. There, on the bank of the Malini, close against the slopes of the Himalayas.
88. 6:53–7:00You can see the hermitage of our preceptor, Kashyapa. Unless some other duty prevents you,
89. 7:00–7:08enter the hermitage and receive the welcome due to a guest, and, when you see the holy rites of the ascetics,
90. 7:08–7:14Rich in the power of their austerities, proceeding without disturbance,
91. 7:14–7:22you will understand how well this arm, marked by the bowstring, protects your people,
92. 7:22–7:26is the father superior at the hermitage.
93. 7:26–7:33This very day he placed the care of guests in the hands of his blameless daughter, Shakhantala, and
94. 7:33–7:40went to the sacred moon shrine at Prabhasa to appease the forces hostile to her destiny.
95. 7:40–7:47Good! I shall meet her. She will speak of my devotion to the Great Sage.
96. 7:47–7:49We must go now.
97. 7:49–7:57Charitya, drive on. First let the sight of the holy hermitage purify us.
98. 7:57–8:00As your majesty commands.
99. 8:00–8:07charioteer. Even without being told, one can see that we have reached the outskirts of the sacred grove.
100. 8:08–8:17How so? Do you not see? Here, beneath the trees lie grains of wild rice fallen from the parrot's
101. 8:17–8:25nests. Here and their stones shine smooth with oil from crushed ingoody fruit. The thorns are so
102. 8:25–8:32They fearless that, even hearing human voices, they do not break their stride, and the path
103. 8:32–8:39leading to the pool is marked by trails of water drops falling from the hems of bark.
104. 8:39–8:40Garments.
105. 8:40–8:43Every sign agrees.
106. 8:43–8:49And look. The roots of the trees have been washed by the overflowing channels. The
107. 8:49–8:55The luster of tender leaves is dimmed by smoke rising from offerings of clarified butter.
108. 8:55–9:01And here, in the green meadow where the soft shoots of kusha grass have been cut, young
109. 9:01–9:04dear graze at ease.
110. 9:04–9:10Slow and utterly unafraid, let us cause no disturbance to the hermitage.
111. 9:10–9:12Stop the chariot at the edge.
112. 9:12–9:15I shall dismount.
113. 9:15–9:16The reins are steady.
114. 9:16–9:20You may descend, Your Majesty.
115. 9:20–9:23One should enter a hermitage in humble dress.
116. 9:23–9:26Take charge of these.
117. 9:26–9:27Charitya.
118. 9:27–9:34While I pay my respects to the sages, sprinkle water over the horse's backs and call them.
119. 9:34–9:37As Your Majesty commands.
120. 9:37–9:40I shall enter the hermitage through this gate.
121. 9:40–9:44The ground of the hermitage is peaceful.
122. 9:44–9:51my arm is throbbing. How can such an omen arise here? Or perhaps the doors of destiny stand
123. 9:51–9:56open everywhere. This way, dear friends, this way.
124. 9:56–10:04Ah! I hear conversation to the right of the avenue of flowering trees. I shall go there.
125. 10:04–10:09Daughters of the Hermitage are coming this way, watering the young trees from little
126. 10:09–10:17pictures suited to their size. How lovely they are! I shall conceal myself in this shade
127. 10:17–10:26and watch. S.H.A.K.U.N.T.A.L.A. enters with her two friends, carrying out the work described.
128. 10:26–10:32Dear Shakuntala, it seems Father Kashyapur loves the trees of the Hermitage even more
129. 10:32–10:38than he loves you. That must be why he has given the task of filling their basins to
130. 10:38–10:41someone as tender as a jasmine.
131. 10:41–10:42Blossom.
132. 10:42–10:45It is not only Father's command.
133. 10:45–10:47It is my own devotion as well.
134. 10:47–10:52I truly feel a sister's affection for these trees.
135. 10:52–10:57Dear Shakuntala, the grove of trees that flower in summer has drunk its fill.
136. 10:57–11:04Thumb, let us also water those whose flowering season has not yet arrived.
137. 11:04–11:09we shall gain an unexpected blessing. That is the word he thought."
138. 11:09–11:19What? Is this Canva's daughter? Extraordinary. If beauty so rare even in a royal harem belongs
139. 11:19–11:25to a girl of the Hermitage, then surely the wild vine has surpassed the tended vine of
140. 11:25–11:32the garden? Good. Hidden behind this tree, I shall watch her natural behavior while she
141. 11:32–11:39is free from self-consciousness. This Bukkula tree seems to be beckoning me with fingers.
142. 11:39–11:47Its creepers stirred by the wind. As though urging me to hurry, I shall tend it.
143. 11:47–11:53Ravird Kshapa must surely be blind. To set her to such hard work in the hermitage. The
144. 11:53–12:00sage who would make this innocent, lovely body endure the hardships of ascetic life might
145. 12:00–12:06as well attempt to cut hard firewood with. The edge of a blue lotus petal.
146. 12:06–12:14Dear Ansuya, the bark garment Priyam vada tied so tightly is pinching me. Please loosen it.
147. 12:14–12:19Blame your youth for that, it is making your breasts grow.
148. 12:19–12:28Granted, the bark cloth does not suit her budding youth. Yet it has not failed to increase her beauty.
149. 12:28–12:51How could it? A lotus tangled in water moss is still beautiful. The dark mark upon the moon, though a blemish, only heightens its splendor. And this slender girl, even dressed in bark, is irresistibly lovely. What is there that cannot become an ornament to a form so beautiful?
150. 12:51–12:57Dear Shakuntala, here in this natural arba is the Mardavi Creeper that father Kashyapur
151. 12:57–13:04has raised just as he raised you, attend to it, or have you forgotten it?
152. 13:04–13:08I shall forget it only when I forget myself.
153. 13:08–13:14Dear Shakuntala, stand beside the Bakula tree for one moment.
154. 13:14–13:15Why?
155. 13:15–13:20When you stand beside it, it seems to me that a flowering wine is embracing the Bakula
156. 13:20–13:28tree. That is why you are called Priyam Vada, she who speaks sweetly.
157. 13:28–13:36Her friends' words are sweet and true. For Shakuntala's lower lip has the color of a
158. 13:36–13:44tender leaf upon a young vine. Her arms imitate its supple branches and youth. Desirable
159. 13:44–13:47as a flower is poised to blossom over her body.
160. 13:47–13:54Dear Shakuntala, here is the young Jasmine, the bride of that mango tree.
161. 13:54–14:02You named her Winnetoshini, delight of the forest, when she chose the mango as her husband.
162. 14:02–14:09My friend, this pair, who drink water through their roots, have been joined at a most auspicious
163. 14:09–14:10time.
164. 14:10–14:13She is youthful with new flowers.
165. 14:13–14:18the mango tree, heavy with fruit, is ripe for enjoyment.
166. 14:18–14:24Dear Anselya, do you know why Shakuntala is gazing so lovingly at Veneto Shini?
167. 14:24–14:28No, I cannot guess.
168. 14:28–14:34She is thinking, as the young jasmine has found a worthy tree in Veneto Shini's mango.
169. 14:34–14:38May I do find a worthy husband?
170. 14:38–14:41That must be the wish in your own heart.
171. 14:41–14:46Was she born into a family different from that of the father superior?
172. 14:46–14:50Or, she is surely fit to marry a kshatriya.
173. 14:50–14:52For my heart desires her.
174. 14:52–14:59In a matter of doubt, the instinct of a virtuous heart is accepted as proof.
175. 14:59–15:02Still, I must learn her true identity.
176. 15:02–15:09Oh, frightened by the water I splashed, a bee has left the jasmine and is attacking
177. 15:09–15:16my face. Oh, B. Again and again you brush her restless eyes,
178. 15:16–15:24making her tremble. You hover at her ear and hum so sweetly, as though whispering some secret.
179. 15:24–15:30And when she waves her hand to drive you away, you drink the nectar of love from her lower
180. 15:30–15:37lip. I stand baffled by the ordinance of heaven, while you enjoy complete success.
181. 15:37–15:43Friends, protect me. This robber of flowers is tormenting me.
182. 15:43–15:45Who are we to protect you?
183. 15:45–15:50Call Dushinta. The sacred grove is under the king's protection.
184. 15:50–15:54This is the right moment to reveal myself.
185. 15:54–15:57Do not be afraid. Do not be afraid.
186. 15:57–16:01But in that way, I shall declare myself to be the king.
187. 16:01–16:04No. Let it be.
188. 16:04–16:08I shall receive their welcome as an ordinary guest.
189. 16:08–16:14This insolent creature will not leave me alone. I shall go somewhere else.
190. 16:14–16:18Asteriskor, why has it followed me even here?
191. 16:18–16:25While a king of Puru's line, the Chastiser of Evil, rules the Earth,
192. 16:25–16:29who dares molest innocent maidens of a hermitage?
193. 16:29–16:33At the sight of the king, they are all momentarily alarmed.
194. 16:34–16:40There is no cause for alarm. Our dear friend was frightened and distressed by a bee.
195. 16:41–16:46Noble lady, do your sacred duties proceed without disturbance?
196. 16:46–16:51Now that so distinguished a guest has arrived, they certainly do.
197. 16:52–16:54Welcome, sir.
198. 16:54–17:00Dear Shakyuntala, bring the offering of fruit from the leaf-patched cottage.
199. 17:00–17:04The water for washing our guest's feet is here.
200. 17:04–17:06Do not trouble yourselves.
201. 17:06–17:12Your affectionate conversation has already completed every right of hospitality.
202. 17:12–17:18Then, sir, please sit upon this platform built around the Saptapur Natri,
203. 17:18–17:22cooled by its shade, and rest from your weariness.
204. 17:22–17:28You too must be tired from your sacred work. Sit for a while.
205. 17:28–17:35Dear Shakuntala, it is our duty to attend upon a guest come. Let us sit here.
206. 17:35–17:39What is happening to me? The moment I saw him.
207. 17:39–17:44Feelings arose in my heart that do not belong in this sacred grove.
208. 17:44–17:52Ah! your friendship is charming indeed, for you are alike in age and equally beautiful.
209. 17:52–17:58Ansuya, who can this man be? So handsome and possessed of such grave dignity?
210. 17:58–18:03He speaks with tender affection and shows us extraordinary respect.
211. 18:03–18:08I am curious too, my friend, I shall ask him,
212. 18:08–18:14Sir, the trust inspired by your gracious words gives me courage to speak.
213. 18:14–18:16What family do you adorn?
214. 18:16–18:21And what brings so cultivated a gentle man to undertake the hardship of visiting this sacred
215. 18:21–18:24grove?
216. 18:24–18:26Be patient, my heart.
217. 18:26–18:31Ansuya has asked the very question you longed to ask.
218. 18:31–18:33How shall I introduce myself?
219. 18:33–18:38Or rather, how shall I conceal my true identity?
220. 18:38–18:46Good! I shall tell them this. Noble Lady, I am a Brahmin learned in the Vedas, appointed
221. 18:46–18:53by the poor Aava king to oversee the observance of sacred law. I have come to this holy forest
222. 18:53–18:59to learn whether anything is disturbing the rites of the ascetics.
223. 18:59–19:04Those who practice the sacred life have found a powerful protector.
224. 19:04–19:10Dear Shakuntala, if father were here today, what would happen then?
225. 19:10–19:15He would honour this guest by giving him the treasure dearer to him than life itself.
226. 19:15–19:18Oh, stop it!
227. 19:18–19:23You invent fantasies in your own minds and then chatter nonsense.
228. 19:23–19:25I will not listen.
229. 19:25–19:29I too should like to ask you both something about your friend.
230. 19:29–19:33Sir, your question is an honour to us.
231. 19:33–19:37The revered Kasyapa observes perpetual celibacy.
232. 19:37–19:40Yet your friend is called his daughter.
233. 19:40–19:42How is that possible?
234. 19:42–19:44Listen, sir.
235. 19:44–19:48There is a great royal sage of the Koshika line.
236. 19:48–19:51His fame is known throughout the world.
237. 19:51–19:55Know him to be our friend's natural father.
238. 19:55–19:57Father Kasyapa is her foster father
239. 19:57–20:02because he protected and raised her after she was abandoned.
240. 20:02–20:07The word, abandoned, has only increased my curiosity.
241. 20:07–20:11I wish to hear the whole story from the beginning.
242. 20:11–20:17Long ago, while the royal sage Kaushika was engaged in severe austerities,
243. 20:17–20:24the gods became greatly afraid. They sent the celestial nymph Menaka to break his penance.
244. 20:24–20:31The gods are indeed frightened by another's profound austerity. What happened next?
245. 20:31–20:39Then, at the beginning of spring, he saw Minakas intoxicating beauty.
246. 20:39–20:41There is no need to say more.
247. 20:41–20:44The rest can be understood.
248. 20:44–20:47She is the daughter of an Apsara.
249. 20:47–20:48Yes.
250. 20:48–20:50Exactly.
251. 20:50–20:52Then everything is as it should be.
252. 20:52–20:57How could beauty such as hers have been born in the mortal world?
253. 20:57–20:58Lightning.
254. 20:58–21:01Glittering with restless radiance.
255. 21:01–21:09not spring from the earth. My desire lies within reach. Yet even after hearing her friend just
256. 21:09–21:15about wishing her a husband, my timid heart still dares not believe it.
257. 21:15–21:20It seems, sir, that you wish to say something more.
258. 21:20–21:27You have understood me correctly. From a desire to learn the customs of the virtuous, I
259. 21:27–21:30should like to ask one more question.
260. 21:30–21:37Then do not hesitate. You may regard the people of a hermitage as your own family.
261. 21:37–21:44Certainly. Noble Lady. This is what I wish to know about your friend. Will she keep the
262. 21:44–21:51vow of an ascetic maiden until marriage? Defeating every assault of the God of love? Or will
263. 21:51–21:58she remain here forever among her beloved does? Whose eyes resemble her own?
264. 21:58–22:02Sir, even in matters of religion she is under another's authority.
265. 22:02–22:07Her guardian has already resolved to give her to a worthy husband.
266. 22:08–22:12Then the fulfilment of my desire will not be difficult.
267. 22:12–22:17Take heart, my heart, and fill yourself with hope.
268. 22:17–22:19The knot of doubt is loosened.
269. 22:19–22:25What you fear to be consuming fire is a precious jewel that may be touched.
270. 22:25–22:30Ansoya, I am going. What has happened?
271. 22:30–22:36I shall go and tell Raviyad Gautami that Priyam Vada is talking nonsense.
272. 22:36–22:44My friend, it is not proper for one who lives in a hermitage to rise and leave it will be forward-distinguished.
273. 22:44–22:47Guest has been fully welcomed.
274. 22:47–22:51What? Is she leaving? Ah!
275. 22:51–22:56The impulses of a lover's mind reveal themselves in the movement of his body.
276. 22:56–23:04For I was about to follow the sage's daughter, but Propriety suddenly arrested my step.
277. 23:04–23:11I did not move from where I stood, yet I feel as though I had gone after her and returned.
278. 23:11–23:16You peevish girl, you must not leave like this.
279. 23:16–23:24Why not? You owe me two rounds of watering the trees. Pay your debt first, then you may go.
280. 23:24–23:33My lady. I can see that watering the trees has tired her. For her, shoulders droop with weariness.
281. 23:33–23:41Her palms are deeply reddened from repeatedly tilting the pitcher. Her breath is still quicker than usual.
282. 23:41–23:47so that her breasts rise and tremble. A fine net of perspiration lies upon her face,
283. 23:47–23:54disturbing the shirisha flower at her ear, and as her loosened hair escapes, it's not.
284. 23:54–24:00She restrains its wildness with one hand. Therefore I shall pay her debt.
285. 24:01–24:05Do not take me for someone I am not. It is a gift from the king.
286. 24:05–24:11Then the royal signet must not be parted from you. On your word,
287. 24:11–24:16Sir, I forgive her debt. Dear Shakuntala, this gracious
288. 24:16–24:22gentleman has set you free. Or rather, his majesty has set you free. Now you are in
289. 24:22–24:30his debt. If I have truly regained my freedom, I shall not forget that.
290. 24:30–24:33My friend, why are you not leaving now?
291. 24:33–24:36Who are you to order me now?
292. 24:36–24:39I shall go when I please.
293. 24:39–24:42Does she feel for me what I feel for her?
294. 24:42–24:43No.
295. 24:43–24:46My hope has now found an easy landing place.
296. 24:46–24:51For, she does not openly agree with what I say.
297. 24:51–24:55Yet whenever I speak, she listens intently.
298. 24:55–24:59Granted, she does not turn her face towards me.
299. 24:59–25:03her eyes rarely rest anywhere else.
300. 25:03–25:04Hermits.
301. 25:04–25:06Take care.
302. 25:06–25:09Protect the creatures of the sacred grove.
303. 25:09–25:11The women and children are in danger.
304. 25:11–25:14The king is hunting nearby.
305. 25:14–25:20Dust raised by the hooves of his horses, glowing red as the flush of evening, falls like
306. 25:20–25:24a swarm of locusts upon the trees of the hermitage.
307. 25:24–25:28From whose branches wet bark garments hang.
308. 25:28–25:36Alas! Disaster! At the sight of this solitary chariot, an elephant has taken fright. One
309. 25:36–25:42tusk is caught in a shattered tree stump, and the tangled coils of a great clinging vine
310. 25:42–25:48are wrapped around its body like chains, scattering the herds of deer. It is tearing through
311. 25:48–25:55the sacred grove, like the living embodiment of an obstacle to our penance.
312. 25:55–26:04Alas! What carelessness! My soldiers, searching for me, are causing havoc in the sacred grove.
313. 26:04–26:09In this way I have offended the hermits. I must go at once.
314. 26:10–26:16Sir, this uproar has frightened us. Permit us to return to the leaf-patched cottage.
315. 26:17–26:23Go, noble ladies. I shall make certain that no harm comes to the hermitage.
316. 26:23–26:31We are ashamed to ask that we may meet again when we have not completed the rites of hospitality.
317. 26:31–26:34But by now we feel almost acquainted with you.
318. 26:34–26:38Please forgive our conduct generously.
319. 26:38–26:39Not at all.
320. 26:39–26:40Not at all.
321. 26:40–26:45The very sight of you has given me a complete welcome.
322. 26:45–26:48Dear Shakuntala, come quickly.
323. 26:48–27:04Go carefully, go slowly, I shall remove the cause of the disturbance in the hermitage.
324. 27:04–27:08My eagerness to return to the city has faded.
325. 27:08–27:13I shall rejoin my party and have them camp not far from the sacred grove.
326. 27:13–27:17I cannot tear my thoughts away from Shakuntala.
327. 27:17–27:30Four. My body moves forward, but my heart is left behind. Like the streaming cloth of a banner carried against the wind, which cannot keep close to its staff.
328. 27:30–27:36Thus ends Act One of Shackantala. A play by the great poet Kalidasa.
329. 27:39–27:41The exhausted clown enters.
330. 27:41–27:55I can barely walk. I am sick to death of keeping company with a king mad for hunting. A deer here, a boar there, quote, and off we run even at summer noon along forest tracks where the shade is thin.
331. 27:55–28:06We drink lukewarm water from mountain streams. Bitter and astringent with rotting leaves. We eat meat roasted on spits at all the wrong hours. Mostly birds.
332. 28:06–28:10Even at night I cannot stretch my body as I please.
333. 28:10–28:14Every joint has been shaken loose by the jolting carts.
334. 28:14–28:18At daybreak the deafening clamor of hunters setting out for the woods wakes me.
335. 28:18–28:20Sons of wretches.
336. 28:20–28:26And after all this, I am still alive, now there is a boil upon the wound, and a blister
337. 28:26–28:27upon the boil.
338. 28:27–28:34Yesterday I fell behind, his majesty followed some deer into a hermitage and, to my misfortune,
339. 28:34–28:39hot sight of an ascetic's daughter called Shokuntala. Now he will not even speak of returning to
340. 28:39–28:45the city. He spent the whole night thinking of her. What am I to do? He must have finished
341. 28:45–28:51his daily bath and dressing somewhere. I shall find him. Here comes the king, wearing a garland
342. 28:51–28:57of forest flowers and surrounded by armed Yavanna women of the guard. I shall face him.
343. 28:57–29:03No, this is far enough. Every limb is bruised. I shall stand here, at least I may get
344. 29:03–29:06a little rest the king enters with the attendance described.
345. 29:06–29:14Granted, my love will not be easily won. Yet the knowledge of her feelings brings comfort
346. 29:14–29:22to my heart. Though love has not reached fulfillment, mutual affection is joy in itself. A lover
347. 29:22–29:28tormented by desire deceives himself by imagining the beloved's feelings according
348. 29:28–29:37to his own wishes. How so? That tender glance. Though her eyes were turned away, that slow
349. 29:37–29:45step waited by her hips. As though she meant to tease me, that angry rebuke to the friend
350. 29:45–29:53who said, You may not go. All of it was truly meant for me. Ah! Love interprets everything
351. 29:53–29:55in its own favor.
352. 29:55–29:59Your Majesty, my hand will not rise.
353. 29:59–30:01So I salute you only with words.
354. 30:01–30:05Victory to you, victory, my lord.
355. 30:05–30:09My friend, what has made your body so stiff?
356. 30:09–30:11What has made it stiff?
357. 30:11–30:16You poke a finger into my eye and then ask why the tears are falling.
358. 30:16–30:20My friend, I truly do not understand.
359. 30:20–30:27My lord, have you decided to abandon royal duty and the pleasures of a splendid life to become a forest?
360. 30:27–30:34Ranger, to tell the truth, chasing wild beasts and birds every day has dislocated every joint in my body.
361. 30:34–30:37I no longer have command of my own limbs.
362. 30:37–30:42Have mercy now, give me leave, at least rest for one day.
363. 30:42–30:52My friend pleads so earnestly, and my heart, absorbed in Canva's daughter, has itself turned away from the hunt.
364. 30:52–31:00For I can no longer bend this drawn bow and set an arrow against the thorns who live beside my beloved,
365. 31:00–31:04as though they had taught her their innocent gaze.
366. 31:04–31:08My lord, you are turning over some serious thought in your mind.
367. 31:08–31:12I have been calling out to you as though alone in the forest.
368. 31:12–31:20How could I do otherwise? I would never disregard a friend's words. We shall remain here.
369. 31:20–31:22May you live long.
370. 31:22–31:25Wait! There is something else.
371. 31:25–31:28Command me, Your Majesty.
372. 31:28–31:33After you have rested, you must help me with one more simple task.
373. 31:33–31:37Tasting sweet cakes and fried pastries?
374. 31:37–31:40I shall tell you what the task is.
375. 31:40–31:42Tell me slowly.
376. 31:42–31:44Who is in attendance?
377. 31:44–31:48Gatekeeper, my lord, your command.
378. 31:48–31:52Raver, Tarka, summon the general at once.
379. 31:52–31:58As my lord commands, the general and gatekeeper enter.
380. 31:58–32:01Hunting may be called a vice.
381. 32:01–32:04Yet for my lord it has proved beneficial.
382. 32:04–32:114. The front of his body has been hardened by constant contact with the bowstring. He
383. 32:11–32:19does not perspire even beneath the sun's rays. His body has grown lean, yet the strength
384. 32:19–32:27of his muscles conceals it. And, like an elephant roaming the mountains, he displays tremendous
385. 32:27–32:30vitality.
386. 32:30–32:32My lord is over there.
387. 32:32–32:37Listening to our conversation and looking this way as he waits for you.
388. 32:37–32:38Go forward.
389. 32:38–32:40Sir.
390. 32:40–32:41Victory.
391. 32:41–32:43Victory to the commander.
392. 32:43–32:49The fierce animals of the forest have been surrounded and the ground is ready for the
393. 32:49–32:50hunt.
394. 32:50–32:53What are we waiting for now?
395. 32:53–32:58Madavia's condemnation of hunting has dampened my enthusiasm.
396. 32:58–33:10Madhavya, stand firm in your opposition. I shall test my lord's feelings. Commander, this fall is talking nonsense.
397. 33:10–33:19His Majesty himself is living proof of the virtues of the hunt. The waist grows slender and the firm body light
398. 33:19–33:27Fit for fearless feats of courage, one sees how wild creatures change under fear and rage,
399. 33:27–33:33and what exhilaration an archer feels when his arrow strikes a moving mark.
400. 33:33–33:40To condemn hunting as a vice is sheer falsehood. Where else can such sport be found?
401. 33:40–33:46His majesty's good sense has returned at last go on wandering from thicket to thicket until,
402. 33:46–33:51Like a jackal leading the pack, you fall into the jaws of some old bear.
403. 33:51–33:57General, we are nearer hermitage. Your words do not please me.
404. 33:57–34:05Today, let the buffaloes plunge into pools whose water they have churned again and again with their horns.
405. 34:05–34:09Let the herds of deer gather in the shade and chew the could.
406. 34:09–34:13Let the leading boars root up sedge undisturbed beside the ponds,
407. 34:13–34:18and let this bow of mine rest with its string slack.
408. 34:18–34:21As the mighty king wishes,
409. 34:21–34:24then call back the forest guards,
410. 34:24–34:28order the soldiers to keep far from the sacred grove.
411. 34:28–34:31Remember, within ascetics,
412. 34:31–34:33ordinarily so calm,
413. 34:33–34:36a blazing power lies concealed,
414. 34:36–34:38like the sunstone,
415. 34:38–34:44Pleasant to the touch. It releases fire when struck by hostile heat.
416. 34:44–34:47As your Majesty commands.
417. 34:47–34:52Off with you now, son of a slave girl. The general exits.
418. 34:52–35:00Take off your hunting dress. Rave a tucker. You too must not leave your post unattended.
419. 35:00–35:03As your Majesty commands.
420. 35:03–35:07We have driven away the parasites without even burning incense.
421. 35:07–35:13Now sit comfortably upon this canopied seat, enclosed by the shade of the residence tree,
422. 35:13–35:15so that I too may rest.
423. 35:15–35:16Lead the way.
424. 35:16–35:18They sit.
425. 35:18–35:25My friend Medavia, your eyes have not received their reward, because you have not seen what
426. 35:25–35:27is truly worth seeing.
427. 35:27–35:31Are you not standing right before me?
428. 35:31–35:33Every man imagines himself handsome.
429. 35:33–35:38I am speaking of Shakuntala, the ornament of the Hermitage.
430. 35:38–35:41Ah, I must give him no opening.
431. 35:41–35:46If she is truly an ascetic's daughter and therefore not free to marry, what is the use
432. 35:46–35:47of seeing her?
433. 35:47–35:49Fool!
434. 35:49–35:53Could Dushyanta's heart desire what is forbidden?
435. 35:53–35:55Then what is the truth?
436. 35:55–36:02It is said that this daughter of the sage was born of a celestial nymph, then adopted after
437. 36:02–36:04her mother abandoned her.
438. 36:04–36:11Like a jasmine blossom fallen upon a milkweed bush after being torn from its branch.
439. 36:11–36:16Even if she is not the natural daughter of the great sage Kashyapa, what good does seeing
440. 36:16–36:18her do you?
441. 36:18–36:20Crown jewel of fools.
442. 36:20–36:25How long the whole world lifts rows of unblinking eyes and gazes wistfully for the first
443. 36:25–36:31crescent of the moon and how could she be wholly beyond the reach of a man like me
444. 36:32–36:38When she is like a glowing fragment of fragrant aloe would fall in among ordinary sticks of fuel
445. 36:39–36:44Ha just as a man tired of eating sweet dates begins to crave sour tamarind
446. 36:44–36:48So you have turned from the finest women and developed this longing
447. 36:49–36:52You speak so only because you have not seen her
448. 36:52–36:58Anyone who can astonish even you must indeed be surpassingly beautiful.
449. 36:58–37:07My friend, what more can I say? Was her likeness painted first? And life then breathed into it?
450. 37:07–37:14Or was she imagined by gathering every lovely form into one? When I consider the Creator's
451. 37:14–37:21power, her body seems to me a second creation of Lakshmi herself. The jewel among women.
452. 37:21–37:26Then every other beauty has been stripped of her title.
453. 37:26–37:29And this thought has lodged in my heart.
454. 37:29–37:32A flower whose fragrance no one has breathed.
455. 37:32–37:36A tender leaf no fingernail has bruised.
456. 37:36–37:39A jewel never set in an ornament.
457. 37:39–37:42New wine that no one has yet tasted.
458. 37:42–37:47Who upon earth shall be the fortunate enjoyer of this flawless beauty?
459. 37:47–37:50Like the perfect fruit of accumulated merit?
460. 37:50–37:53I do not know.
461. 37:53–37:55Then marry her at once.
462. 37:55–38:01Before she falls into the hands of some rustic hermit whose head is greasy with ingoody oil.
463. 38:01–38:06She is under another's authority, and her guardian is absent.
464. 38:06–38:07Very well.
465. 38:07–38:10What feeling does she have for you?
466. 38:10–38:11My friend.
467. 38:11–38:15A hermit's daughter is naturally modest yet.
468. 38:15–38:19When I stood before her, she turned away her eyes.
469. 38:19–38:23She made her smile appear to have another cause.
470. 38:23–38:31Thus her love, restrained by modesty, was neither fully revealed nor wholly concealed.
471. 38:31–38:32What did you expect?
472. 38:32–38:36That the instant she saw you she would leap into your arms?
473. 38:36–38:44My friend, when she left with her two companions, modest though she was, she let me understand
474. 38:44–38:47something of her feelings.
475. 38:47–38:544. After taking only a few steps, the slender girl suddenly stopped and said,
476. 38:54–39:03a blade of coosagrass has pricked my foot. Then, while freeing her bark garment from a branch in which it was not truly caught,
477. 39:03–39:07she turned her face back towards me.
478. 39:07–39:15Excellent! You have been well provisioned for the journey. I suspect there will be many more expeditions to the hermitage.
479. 39:15–39:20My friend, think of some pretext for returning to the Hermitage grounds.
480. 39:20–39:25I am thinking, do not interrupt my thoughts with your love sick whining.
481. 39:25–39:30Ah, what other pretext do you need? Are you not the king?
482. 39:30–39:31And therefore?
483. 39:31–39:35A king may demand one sixth of the produce.
484. 39:35–39:41Fool! These ascetics give their protector another kind of tribute.
485. 39:41–39:47more precious than heaps of jewels. See, the taxes a king receives from the social orders
486. 39:47–39:54are perishable. But forest-dwelling ascetics offer him an imperishable sixth share of the
487. 39:54–39:57merit of their... Osterities.
488. 39:57–40:00Good. We have found him.
489. 40:00–40:07Ah! Such steady, tranquil voices. They must be hermits.
490. 40:07–40:14Victory! Victory! My lord! Two young hermits are waiting at the entrance.
491. 40:14–40:17Bring them in without delay.
492. 40:17–40:22At once, two hermits enter with the gatekeeper.
493. 40:22–40:26This way! This way! revered sirs.
494. 40:26–40:36Ah! Despite his royal splendor, how greatly his appearance inspires trust, but that is natural in a king who is like a sage.
495. 40:36–40:454. He too now follows a way of life that benefits the whole world. By protecting his subjects,
496. 40:45–40:53he gathers day by day the merit of austerity. And the sacred title, Sage, earned by his self-command,
497. 40:53–41:00is carried to heaven in the songs of paired bards. Only the word, Royal, stands before it.
498. 41:00–41:08Gautama. This is Dushyanta, the friend of Indra. No wonder, then.
499. 41:08–41:17Indeed, what wonder that he alone enjoys the whole earth, girdled by the dark ocean. When his
500. 41:17–41:24arm is long as the bar of a city gate. For victory in the gods, fierce battles with the demons
501. 41:24–41:29depends upon his strung bow and Indras. Thunderbolt.
502. 41:29–41:31Victory to your Majesty.
503. 41:31–41:35I salute you both. What is your command?
504. 41:35–41:44The inhabitants of the Hermitage have learned that your Majesty is here. They therefore have a request to make.
505. 41:44–41:46What do they command?
506. 41:46–41:52The revered Sage Kashyapa is absent. And demons are tormenting us.
507. 41:52–41:59We beg your majesty to remain with your charioteer for several nights and protect the Hermitage.
508. 41:59–42:01You honor me.
509. 42:01–42:05The hand of welcome is closing around your throat now.
510. 42:05–42:09Rai Vataka, command the charioteer in my name.
511. 42:09–42:13Bring the chariot with my bow and arrows.
512. 42:13–42:15As my lord commands.
513. 42:15–42:20This befits one who follows the path of his forefathers.
514. 42:20–42:27The descendants of Puru are indeed consecrated to the sacrifice of calming the fears of those in
515. 42:27–42:29distress.
516. 42:29–42:32Rev. Sures, go on ahead.
517. 42:32–42:35I shall follow immediately.
518. 42:35–42:37Victory to you.
519. 42:37–42:41Madhavia, are you curious to see Shakuntala?
520. 42:41–42:45At first my curiosity knew no bounds.
521. 42:45–42:51But after hearing about the demons, I understand its true value. Curiosity has given way to doubt.
522. 42:52–42:57Do not be afraid. You will remain close beside me.
523. 42:57–43:03I shall be the guardian of the chariot wheel, that is, a target standing upright, ready to die.
524. 43:03–43:04Asterisk.
525. 43:05–43:11My lord. The chariot stands ready for your majesty's victorious departure.
526. 43:11–43:18But Karabaka, an attendant of the Queen Mother, has arrived from the city.
527. 43:18–43:23What? My mother has sent him. Asterisk.
528. 43:23–43:25What are your orders?
529. 43:25–43:27Bring him in.
530. 43:27–43:35As your Majesty commands, K-A-R-A-B-H-A-K-A enters with the Gatekeeper.
531. 43:35–43:38Victory. Victory to your Majesty.
532. 43:38–43:44The Queen Mother sends this message. On the coming fourth day of the bright fortnight,
533. 43:44–43:51the Ponsavana rite, asterisk which ensures the birth of a son, will be performed.
534. 43:51–43:56Your Majesty's presence on that occasion is essential.
535. 43:56–44:05Medavia. On one side lies my duty to the Hermits. On the other, my revered mother's command.
536. 44:05–44:09I cannot neglect either. What am I to do?
537. 44:09–44:13Heng suspended between them like Trishanku.
538. 44:13–44:20I am truly caught in a dilemma. The two duties must be performed in different places.
539. 44:20–44:23Therefore my mind is divided in two.
540. 44:23–44:29Like a river current split into two branches when a rock lies in its path.
541. 44:29–44:33My friend Madhavya. My mother loves you like a son.
542. 44:33–44:38Please return from here and perform a son's duty in my place.
543. 44:38–44:42Tell her that the business of the hermits has detained me here.
544. 44:42–44:47Ah, I understand. You think I am afraid of these demons.
545. 44:47–44:53Great Brahmin! No one could even imagine such a thing of you.
546. 44:53–44:58Then, since the king's affection requires me to go, I shall go.
547. 44:58–45:05I shall send the entire army with you, so that it causes no disturbance in a sacred grove.
548. 45:05–45:08Now I am the crown prince.
549. 45:08–45:19He is terribly talkative. Before the queens in the inner apartments, he may reveal the secret of my love. Good. I shall tell him this.
550. 45:19–45:25My friend, I am going to the Hermitage out of respect for the sages.
551. 45:25–45:29There is nothing serious in my affection for the Hermits' daughter.
552. 45:29–45:35Look! On one side stand men like us. On the other.
553. 45:35–45:40That girl reared among thorns and holy innocent of love.
554. 45:40–45:46My friend, do not mistake a jesting invention for a declaration of truth.
555. 45:46–45:53Yes, yes, certainly. I'll exit. End of Act II of Shakhintala, a play by the great poet
556. 45:53–45:54Caledasah.
557. 45:54–46:01A disciple of the sacrificial priest enters.
558. 46:01–46:09Ah! How great is Dushyanta's power! The moment his majesty entered the hermitage grounds
559. 46:09–46:15with his charioteer. The demon's disturbance is ceased. And our rites are proceeding
560. 46:15–46:22without obstruction. What need has he even to set an arrow to the bow? From afar. With
561. 46:22–46:28the twang of the bowstring. As though the bow itself were roaring a threat. He drives
562. 46:28–46:34the troublemakers away. I shall take this coosa grass to the priests so that they may spread
563. 46:34–46:40it upon the altar. Priyam Vada. For whom are you carrying that paste of fragrant
564. 46:40–46:45Eurya and those Lotus leaves bound with fibers. What did you say?
565. 46:45–46:52Shaktala has been made gravely ill by the burning heat. And these are to cool her fever.
566. 46:52–46:58Ah! Tend your friend with great care. She is the very life of our venerable master.
567. 46:58–47:03I too shall immediately send consecrated cooling water through Gautami.
568. 47:03–47:09End of the introductory scene. The Love-Sick King enters.
569. 47:09–47:16I know the power of austerity, and I know that the maiden is under another's authority.
570. 47:16–47:19Yet, I cannot turn my heart away from her.
571. 47:19–47:20God of love!
572. 47:20–47:24Though you know all this, you show me no mercy.
573. 47:24–47:28How can you be so cruel when flowers or your weapons?
574. 47:28–47:29Yes!
575. 47:29–47:31Now I understand.
576. 47:31–47:36The fire of Shiva's anger must still be smoldering within you.
577. 47:36–47:39like the submarine fire beneath the ocean.
578. 47:39–47:45Otherwise, oh, tormenter of hearts, how could you?
579. 47:45–47:47Reduce two ashes yourself.
580. 47:47–47:51Rage so fiercely against men like me.
581. 47:51–47:55Flower-armed God, why do you and the moon,
582. 47:55–47:58both of whom should inspire trust?
583. 47:58–48:01Attack the caravan of lovers.
584. 48:01–48:05Your arrows are flowers, and the moon's rays are cool.
585. 48:05–48:09Yet till lovers like me both claims are plainly false.
586. 48:09–48:13The moon pours fire from his frost-like beams,
587. 48:13–48:17and you make your flower arrows hard as thunderbolts.
588. 48:17–48:19The priest's rites are complete.
589. 48:19–48:21Now that I have a little leisure,
590. 48:21–48:24where shall I give my weary mind rest?
591. 48:24–48:28What refuge have I but the sight of my beloved?
592. 48:28–48:30I must seek her.
593. 48:30–48:33In this fierce noonday heat,
594. 48:33–48:40She and her friends usually remain on that bank of the Malini, enclosed by a bower of vines.
595. 48:40–48:46I shall go there. Ah, how delightful this place is in the cooling wind,
596. 48:47–48:52with limbs made languid by desire. I could almost embrace this breeze,
597. 48:53–48:57fragrant with lotus and carrying spray from the waves of the Malini.
598. 48:57–49:02Shaktala must be in this reed encircled bower.
599. 49:02–49:094. On the white sand at its entrance runs a line of fresh footprints, lightly marked at
600. 49:09–49:17the toes, but deeply pressed behind by the weight of her hips. I shall peep through the branches.
601. 49:17–49:26Ah! My eyes have received their alms. My beloved! The foundation of my love lies with her
602. 49:26–49:33her two friends upon a stone slab strewn with flowers. Good! Hidden behind the vines. I
603. 49:33–49:42shall listen to their private conversation. S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A enters with her two friends, in the condition
604. 49:42–49:46described. Dear Shakuntala, does the breeze from these
605. 49:46–49:54lotus leaves bring you any relief? What? Are my friends fanning me? The two friends
606. 49:54–49:57This looks sorrowfully at one another.
607. 49:57–50:00The lady is very ill.
608. 50:00–50:03Are these the symptoms of sunstroke?
609. 50:03–50:05Or was my suspicion right?
610. 50:05–50:06No more doubt.
611. 50:06–50:10Her breasts are anointed with cooling Eucera paste.
612. 50:10–50:17A single bracelet of lotus fiber hangs loose upon her wrist, even in suffering.
613. 50:17–50:20My beloved's appearance is lovely.
614. 50:20–50:25Though the fever born of love and the fever of summer may look alike, summer could never
615. 50:25–50:30fashion such beautiful distress upon a young woman's body.
616. 50:30–50:36Dear Shakuntala, we may be inexperienced in the ways of love, yet your condition resembles
617. 50:36–50:39that of lovers described in old tales.
618. 50:39–50:42Please tell us the cause of your illness.
619. 50:42–50:48No cure can be found until the root of a disease is known with certainty.
620. 50:48–50:52Anasuya shares my suspicion.
621. 50:52–50:54My longing has grown too powerful.
622. 50:54–50:58I cannot easily restrain it now.
623. 50:58–51:01Dear Shakuntala, Anasuya is right.
624. 51:01–51:04Why hide your suffering from us?
625. 51:04–51:06Your body grows thinner day by day.
626. 51:06–51:10Only the radiance of your beauty remains.
627. 51:10–51:13Priyam Varda speaks the truth.
628. 51:13–51:144.
629. 51:14–51:16Her cheeks have grown hollow.
630. 51:16–51:19The firmness of her breasts has softened.
631. 51:19–51:22Her waist has become slender.
632. 51:22–51:24Her shoulders droop.
633. 51:24–51:27And the colour has faded from her body.
634. 51:27–51:32Afflicted by love, she is both pitiable and beautiful.
635. 51:32–51:36Like a Madhavi vine touched by a wind that withers its leaves.
636. 51:36–51:41To whom can I tell this, if not to you too?
637. 51:41–51:45Yet by speaking I shall now cause you pain as well.
638. 51:45–51:51That is precisely why we insist sorrow becomes bearable when it is shared.
639. 51:51–51:57When a friend who shares both joy and grief asks her, this maiden cannot leave the cause
640. 51:57–52:00of her secret suffering untold.
641. 52:00–52:05Again and again she turned and cast meaningful glances at me.
642. 52:05–52:09Yet now my heart trembles as I wait to hear her answer.
643. 52:09–52:21Ever since that royal sage, the protector of the sacred grove, came within my sight, I have fallen in love with him, and this has become my condition.
644. 52:21–52:35I have heard what I longed to hear. Love itself is the source of her fever, and love has come to soothe it for me, like a clouded day at summer's end that cools the heat of the world.
645. 52:35–52:43Now, if you think it right, tell me what I must do so that the royal sage will take pity on me.
646. 52:43–52:48Otherwise, offer water for my funeral rites at once.
647. 52:48–52:57These words, which have cut through my doubt, are the fruit of love. The fruit of my effort is yet to come.
648. 52:57–53:12Her illness of love has grown severe. It will bear no delay. The man upon whom she has set her heart is no ordinary man. But a descendant of Puru, we must quickly find a way to win his love for her.
649. 53:12–53:24You are right, my friend, by good fortune your desire has settled upon one who is worthy. Where else should a mighty river flow but to the sea?
650. 53:24–53:31Who would not wish to see the mango tree blossom beside the Atamukta vine?
651. 53:31–53:35What wonder if the two bright stars of Vishaka follow the crescent moon?
652. 53:35–53:38I am indebted to you both.
653. 53:38–53:44By what means can our friends' desire be fulfilled secretly and without delay?
654. 53:44–53:48Secretly, will require some ingenuity.
655. 53:48–53:51Without delay, will not be difficult.
656. 53:51–53:53How so?
657. 53:53–53:59The royal sage, whose tender glances revealed his desire for her, has also been passing
658. 53:59–54:03these days without sleep and growing thin.
659. 54:03–54:04That is true.
660. 54:04–54:06I am indeed just so.
661. 54:06–54:14For, night after night, tears flowing from the corners of my eyes, heated by the fever
662. 54:14–54:20within, fall upon my arm and dull the stones of this golden bracelet, without touching
663. 54:20–54:28the scar left by the bowstring. It slips again and again from my wrist. And again and again
664. 54:28–54:30I must push it back into place.
665. 54:30–54:37Anzuya, we must write a love letter now. We shall hide it among flowers. Saying they
666. 54:37–54:42are remnants of worship. And place it in the king's hand.
667. 54:42–54:47I like this subtle plan. What does Shakyuntala think?
668. 54:47–54:55one question a command? Then compose a lovely verse that begins by speaking of yourself.
669. 54:55–55:01I am thinking, but my heart trembles with fear that I shall be rejected.
670. 55:01–55:08Timid girl. The man whose rejection you fear stands here yearning for your love. A petitioner
671. 55:08–55:15may or may not win good fortune. But when good fortune itself desires something, how
672. 55:15–55:18How can it be difficult for her to obtain it?
673. 55:18–55:26You who undervalue your own worth, who would try to ward off water moonlight with a parasol?
674. 55:26–55:29I shall do as you say.
675. 55:29–55:33No wonder my unblinking eyes gaze fixedly upon my beloved.
676. 55:33–55:41For, as she composes her verse, one eyebrow rises, and the thrill upon her cheek reveals
677. 55:41–55:43her love for me.
678. 55:43–55:50My friends, the verse has come to me, but I have nothing with which to write it.
679. 55:50–55:55Can you not scratch the letters with your fingernail upon this tender lotus leaf?
680. 55:55–55:58Green is a parrot's breast.
681. 55:58–56:01Then we shall judge your verse.
682. 56:01–56:05Then listen and tell me whether the meaning is right.
683. 56:05–56:06We are ready.
684. 56:06–56:11O hard-hearted one, I do not know what lies within your mind.
685. 56:11–56:19But because I yearn for you, the God of love burns my limbs in anguish day and night."
686. 56:19–56:20Slender girl.
687. 56:20–56:27The God of love may continually torment you, but he is reducing me to ashes.
688. 56:27–56:33The day does not work such havoc on a pool of night lotuses as the moon does.
689. 56:33–56:38We welcome this wish, fulfilled without delay merely by being conceived.
690. 56:38–56:45Heart, if you go on pounding like this, nothing will be accomplished.
691. 56:45–56:47Do not trouble yourself.
692. 56:47–56:50Clinging to a bed of flowers.
693. 56:50–56:54Wearing a garland of lotus fibers already fading.
694. 56:54–56:59Your limbs afflicted by fierce fever need not observe ceremony.
695. 56:59–57:03Let our friend grace this side of the stone seat.
696. 57:03–57:04Priyam Vada.
697. 57:04–57:09I hope your friend is not suffering too severely from this bodily fever.
698. 57:10–57:14Now that the remedy has been found, the fever will subside in due course.
699. 57:16–57:18What do you mean by, in due course?
700. 57:18–57:24Look, just as life suddenly returns to a peeing at the sound of thunder,
701. 57:24–57:27our friend is gazing at him without blinking.
702. 57:28–57:31Gracious sir, your mutual love is plain.
703. 57:31–57:38Yet, out of affection for my friend, I wish to speak openly as well.
704. 57:38–57:43Speak! One regrets leaving the heart's thought unspoken.
705. 57:43–57:47Then me your Majesty listen carefully.
706. 57:47–57:49I am listening.
707. 57:49–57:57Because of you, the God of love has brought our friend to this condition. Therefore, peace preserve her life.
708. 57:57–58:00It would be an honor.
709. 58:00–58:03My friend, stop troubling the royal sage.
710. 58:03–58:08Who must be eager to return to the pleasures of his inner palace?
711. 58:09–58:11Beautiful One!
712. 58:11–58:14You, whose eyes intoxicate like wine,
713. 58:14–58:18who have taken refuge within my heart?
714. 58:18–58:20If you believe that this heart,
715. 58:20–58:22devoted to you alone,
716. 58:22–58:24belongs to some other beauty,
717. 58:24–58:27then you wound me again.
718. 58:27–58:31Though the arrows of love have wounded me already.
719. 58:31–58:35My friend, we hear that kings have many wives.
720. 58:35–58:41Act so that our friend does not become an object of pity to her family.
721. 58:41–58:45Beautiful one! Though I may marry many women,
722. 58:45–58:49only two shall be the foundations of my line.
723. 58:49–58:53The royal fortune embodied in my lawful queen.
724. 58:53–58:55And this friend of yours.
725. 58:55–58:57We're fulfilled.
726. 58:57–59:07My friends, ask the protector of the world to forgive whatever bounds of propriety you crossed in this private conversation.
727. 59:07–59:12One asks forgiveness of the person before whom the words were spoken.
728. 59:12–59:18Who else could be offended? Would do people not say behind one's back?
729. 59:18–59:24Lovely thide girl, make a little room for me as a friend upon this bed of flowers.
730. 59:24–59:30Half emptied by your rising, and I may be able to endure the offence.
731. 59:30–59:33Would that alone satisfy you?
732. 59:33–59:39Enough, you shameless girl. You dressed even while I suffer like this.
733. 59:39–59:46Priyam Vada, this distressed fawn is looking everywhere. It must be searching for its mother.
734. 59:46–59:54mother. I shall take it to her. Oh, it is very restless. You will not catch it alone. I shall
735. 59:54–1:00:02help you. My friends, only one of you should go. Otherwise I shall be left helpless.
736. 1:00:02–1:00:10The refuge of the whole world is with you. What? Have they truly both gone?
737. 1:00:10–1:00:12Do not be alarmed.
738. 1:00:12–1:00:13Have I?
739. 1:00:13–1:00:15Who longs for your favour?
740. 1:00:15–1:00:18Not taken the place of your friends?
741. 1:00:18–1:00:23Shall I fan you with a cool lotus leaf and ease your weariness with its moist breeze?
742. 1:00:23–1:00:30Or lovely thide girl, shall I place your lotus red feet in my lap and soothe them with gentle
743. 1:00:30–1:00:32pressure?
744. 1:00:32–1:00:39I must not allow myself to show disrespect to one whom I ought to honour.
745. 1:00:39–1:00:471. The day is not yet over. Consider your condition as well. Leaving the flower bed in this secluded
746. 1:00:47–1:00:54bower. Your breast covered only by the armour of a plantain leaf. With limbs so tender and
747. 1:00:54–1:00:59pale. How can you venture into the heat outside?
748. 1:00:59–1:01:05My friends are my only refuge. To whom else can I go for protection?
749. 1:01:05–1:01:07Now I am ashamed.
750. 1:01:07–1:01:09I do not blame the king.
751. 1:01:09–1:01:13Asterisk I blame my fate.
752. 1:01:13–1:01:17Why blame a fate that favours you so greatly?
753. 1:01:17–1:01:23Why should I not blame the fate that, though I am not mistress of myself, shows me another's
754. 1:01:23–1:01:27virtues only to mock me?
755. 1:01:27–1:01:33Though maidens feel deep desire within, they frustrate a lover's efforts.
756. 1:01:33–1:01:38Although they long for the joy of union, they fear to surrender their bodies.
757. 1:01:38–1:01:44Once love has gained a footing, the pain is not so great as the pain they cause love by
758. 1:01:44–1:01:46wasting time.
759. 1:01:46–1:01:51S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A prepares to leave.
760. 1:01:51–1:01:54Why should I not fulfill my desire?
761. 1:01:54–1:01:57Son of Guru, release me.
762. 1:01:57–1:02:01Lady, I shall release you.
763. 1:02:01–1:02:03When?
764. 1:02:03–1:02:07After I have enjoyed the happiness of love with you.
765. 1:02:07–1:02:11A daughter overcome by love is not her own mistress.
766. 1:02:11–1:02:16Besides, my friend's consent must also be obtained.
767. 1:02:16–1:02:18Then I release you.
768. 1:02:18–1:02:21Son of Puru, observe propriety.
769. 1:02:21–1:02:25Sages and hermits pass this way.
770. 1:02:25–1:02:28What? Have we come into the open?
771. 1:02:28–1:02:38Son of Kuru, although I have not fulfilled your desire and have given you only the pleasure of seeing me, do not forget me.
772. 1:02:38–1:02:51Beautiful One, though you walk far away, you do not leave my heart, just as, at the close of day, a tree's shadow does not abandon its root in the east.
773. 1:02:51–1:02:58Ah! My feet have no strength to carry me, Father. Hidden from Him behind this Kurabaka
774. 1:02:58–1:03:04bush, I shall watch the bower from the rear and see what becomes of His love.
775. 1:03:04–1:03:13Beloved, though your love is my only happiness, you have left me and gone away in indifference.
776. 1:03:13–1:03:19Can the heart within your body so tender that it cannot endure rough enjoyment? Be hard
777. 1:03:19–1:03:23as the seed pod of a Cherisha flower? Asterisk.
778. 1:03:23–1:03:29Hearing this, I have no strength left to go.
779. 1:03:29–1:03:38What use is this deserted place without my beloved? I shall leave. Ah! My departure is checked.
780. 1:03:38–1:03:44Here before me lies this bracelet of lotus fiber, fragrant with Eucera. Fallen from her
781. 1:03:44–1:03:48wrist. Like a chain that binds my heart.
782. 1:03:48–1:03:56Ah, because I have grown thin, my fibre bracelet loosened and fell, and I did not even notice.
783. 1:03:57–1:04:11Ah, how cool its touch is! Beloved, this unfortunate man has found consolation in the little ornament that slipped from your sacred arm, and remained here.
784. 1:04:11–1:04:15Though it is lifeless, and you yourself gave me none.
785. 1:04:15–1:04:23I cannot restrain myself any longer. Let me see. I shall use this as a pretext to approach him."
786. 1:04:23–1:04:32Ah! The mistress of my life has returned. Hearing my lament, fate has shown me mercy.
787. 1:04:32–1:04:42At the prayer of one who rarely begs, his throat parts dry. A newly formed cloud has burst in rain upon his face.
788. 1:04:42–1:04:50Quickly, after I had gone halfway, I remembered that this fiber bracelet had fallen from my
789. 1:04:50–1:04:51hand.
790. 1:04:51–1:04:52So I returned.
791. 1:04:52–1:04:56My heart seemed to tell me that you had picked it up.
792. 1:04:56–1:05:02Give it back, therefore, so that our secret is not revealed before the hermits.
793. 1:05:02–1:05:05Yours and mine are like.
794. 1:05:05–1:05:10I shall return it on one condition, and not otherwise.
795. 1:05:10–1:05:12What condition?
796. 1:05:12–1:05:16I myself must fasten it in its place.
797. 1:05:16–1:05:19How can I escape from this now?
798. 1:05:19–1:05:22Let us go to the stone seat.
799. 1:05:22–1:05:25Is this the shoot of the tree of love?
800. 1:05:25–1:05:30Burned by the fire of Shiva's anger and suddenly revived by a shower of nectar?
801. 1:05:30–1:05:33Quickly, my lord.
802. 1:05:33–1:05:40Now, from this form of a dress used for a husband, I am reassured.
803. 1:05:40–1:05:41Beautiful one.
804. 1:05:41–1:05:45The knot of this lotus fiber bracelet is not very secure.
805. 1:05:46–1:05:49If you wish, I shall fasten it another way.
806. 1:05:50–1:05:53You understand the art of delay very well.
807. 1:05:53–1:05:54As you please.
808. 1:05:55–1:05:56Beautiful one.
809. 1:05:57–1:05:58Look at it.
810. 1:05:58–1:06:04Your lovely arm, like a dark vine, seems adorned with the new moon.
811. 1:06:04–1:06:08That crescent, taking the form of this fiber bracelet,
812. 1:06:08–1:06:14has left the sky for the greater beauty of your hand and come here with its two tips joined.
813. 1:06:14–1:06:19I cannot see it clearly. Fallen from the lotus at my ear.
814. 1:06:19–1:06:24Stirred by the wind has fallen into my eye.
815. 1:06:24–1:06:28With your permission, I shall blow it away.
816. 1:06:28–1:06:33Then I shall be helpless. And I do not trust you.
817. 1:06:33–1:06:40Do not say that. A new servant does not overstep the limits of the one he serves.
818. 1:06:40–1:06:46It is your excessive devotion to service that makes me distrust you.
819. 1:06:46–1:06:51I shall not let such a beautiful opportunity for service escape.
820. 1:06:51–1:06:57Ah! Your eyes are full of tears. Do not fear improper conduct from me.
821. 1:06:57–1:06:59Raise your face.
822. 1:06:59–1:07:12My beloved's lower lip, tender because no teeth have ever bitten it, seems, with its enticing tremor, to invite me, thirsty for its sweetness.
823. 1:07:12–1:07:17My lord seems reluctant to fulfill his promise.
824. 1:07:17–1:07:24Beautiful one, the lotus at your ear is so close to your eye that their likeness confused me.
825. 1:07:24–1:07:32Enough. That is sufficient. It feels better now, but I am ashamed that I can render no
826. 1:07:32–1:07:38service in return to my Lord. Who has shown me such kindness?
827. 1:07:38–1:07:45What more could I desire? Maiden. Even to breed the fragrance of your scented mouth
828. 1:07:45–1:07:52is a favour. Yet a bee is not satisfied merely with the fragrance of a lotus.
829. 1:07:52–1:07:56If it is not satisfied, what will it do?
830. 1:07:56–1:08:00This. Lady Gautami.
831. 1:08:00–1:08:05Son of Puru, my father's religious sister is coming to see how I am.
832. 1:08:05–1:08:08Hide among the bushes.
833. 1:08:08–1:08:12G-A-U-T-A-M-I enters carrying a vessel.
834. 1:08:12–1:08:18You shameless girl! Are you lying here with only the Lord as your companion?
835. 1:08:18–1:08:24Priyam Vada and Hansuya have only just gone down towards the Malini River.
836. 1:08:24–1:08:28Child, be well and live long.
837. 1:08:28–1:08:31Has the fever in your limbs lessened at all?
838. 1:08:31–1:08:34I feel better now.
839. 1:08:34–1:08:40Child, the day is ending. Come, let us return to the cottage.
840. 1:08:40–1:08:46Heart, when you found the man, rare is the fulfillment of a wish.
841. 1:08:46–1:08:51Why did you keep him waiting so long? Why torment yourself with regret now?
842. 1:08:51–1:08:59Wine-bowl! I take my leave of you until I have another chance to enjoy your happiness.
843. 1:09:00–1:09:06Ah! The fulfillment of desire is surrounded by difficulties.
844. 1:09:06–1:09:15Four. The long-lashed maiden's face. Her lower lip repeatedly covered by her fingers. Stammering
845. 1:09:15–1:09:22syllables of refusal. Was turned towards her shoulder. Somehow I raised it. But did not
846. 1:09:22–1:09:30kiss it. Where shall I go now? No. I should remain here. In this abandoned vine bower
847. 1:09:30–1:09:37that my beloved has enjoyed. Upon this stone lies the flower bed disordered by her body.
848. 1:09:37–1:09:43On this lovely lotus leaf is the love letter scratched by her nail. Here is the lotus
849. 1:09:43–1:09:51fiber ornament that fell from her hand. As I gaze on all these, my sight grows dim.
850. 1:09:51–1:09:58And though this reed bower is empty, I cannot tear myself away. Alas, I did wrong to delay
851. 1:09:58–1:10:02when I had the opportunity with my beloved.
852. 1:10:02–1:10:09Now, if the lovely-faced girl comes again to some secret meeting, I shall waste no time.
853. 1:10:09–1:10:13A prize is not won through gracious concessions.
854. 1:10:13–1:10:20My foolish heart, thwarted by complicated obstacles, makes such plans.
855. 1:10:20–1:10:27Yet when it reaches my beloved's presence, it becomes hesitant in a hundred ways.
856. 1:10:27–1:10:33Your Majesty! Your Majesty! The evening ablation has begun.
857. 1:10:33–1:10:39Tawny is the crests of clouds at sunset. The shadows of flesh-eating demons circle the
858. 1:10:39–1:10:45altar blazing with sacrificial fire and spread terror. All around.
859. 1:10:45–1:10:55Holy Men! Do not be afraid. I am coming. He exits. End of Act 3 of Shakhantala, a play
860. 1:10:55–1:11:06by the great poet Kaladasa. The two hermitage maidens enter, gathering flowers.
861. 1:11:06–1:11:12Priyam Vada. Although Shakuntala has found happiness in a secret marriage by mutual consent
862. 1:11:12–1:11:21with a worthy husband, my heart is still uneasy. Why? When the sacrifice ended today, the
863. 1:11:21–1:11:27sages dismissed the king. Once he has returned to the inner apartments of the city, will
864. 1:11:27–1:11:31Will he remember what happened here or not?
865. 1:11:31–1:11:34Put your mind at rest on that point.
866. 1:11:34–1:11:39A man of such grave and noble character does not act against his own nature.
867. 1:11:39–1:11:43But this troubles me when father hears what has happened.
868. 1:11:43–1:11:47I do not know how he will react.
869. 1:11:47–1:11:53My friend, if you ask me, father will approve and be pleased.
870. 1:11:53–1:11:56Approve and be pleased, how can you be sure?
871. 1:11:56–1:12:04else, his chief purpose was always. My daughter must be given to a worthy husband. If destiny
872. 1:12:04–1:12:10itself has accomplished the task, our revered master's purpose has been fulfilled without
873. 1:12:10–1:12:15effort. You are right, my friend, we have gathered
874. 1:12:15–1:12:21enough flowers for the offering. We must also worship the deities who preside over
875. 1:12:21–1:12:24Shakuntala's married happiness.
876. 1:12:24–1:12:25Certainly.
877. 1:12:25–1:12:26Ho!
878. 1:12:26–1:12:28I am here.
879. 1:12:28–1:12:33My friend, it seems that a guest is announcing his arrival.
880. 1:12:33–1:12:37Shakuntala must be near the cottage.
881. 1:12:37–1:12:41Yes, but today her heart is not with her.
882. 1:12:41–1:12:44Then we must make do with these flowers.
883. 1:12:44–1:12:53You who insult a guest, the man upon whom your thoughts are fixed so completely that you fail to notice me when I came as
884. 1:12:53–1:12:57A guest shall not recognize you even when reminded.
885. 1:12:57–1:13:01Just as a drunken man forgets what he said a moment before.
886. 1:13:01–1:13:02Alas!
887. 1:13:02–1:13:04Disaster!
888. 1:13:04–1:13:08Our absent-minded friend has offended some venerable person.
889. 1:13:08–1:13:09Ah!
890. 1:13:09–1:13:11No ordinary person!
891. 1:13:11–1:13:14It is the great sage Durvasa.
892. 1:13:14–1:13:15Quick to anger!
893. 1:13:15–1:13:17He is striding away!
894. 1:13:17–1:13:19Inexorable is fire!
895. 1:13:19–1:13:23Who can burn anything after fire has passed it by?
896. 1:13:23–1:13:27Anzuya, fall at his feet and pacify him.
897. 1:13:27–1:13:30I shall prepare water for the guests welcome.
898. 1:13:30–1:13:35Ah, in my haste I stumbled and dropped the basket of flowers.
899. 1:13:35–1:13:38I must gather them again.
900. 1:13:38–1:13:41My friend, he is anger embodied.
901. 1:13:41–1:13:44Whose pief of forgiveness would he accept?
902. 1:13:44–1:13:47Yet he showed a little mercy.
903. 1:13:47–1:13:49From him, even that is much.
904. 1:13:49–1:13:52Tell me what happened?
905. 1:13:52–1:13:54And he refused to turn back.
906. 1:13:54–1:14:01I said, Holy Sir, remember her former devotion, with your divine insight, recognize her true
907. 1:14:01–1:14:05worth and forgive this offense of your daughter.
908. 1:14:05–1:14:10And then he said, My spoken word cannot prove false.
909. 1:14:10–1:14:15The curse will end the moment she sees a token of recognition.
910. 1:14:15–1:14:18And then he vanished.
911. 1:14:18–1:14:20Now we can breathe again.
912. 1:14:20–1:14:25When the royal sage took leave, he himself placed a ring upon Shakuntala's hand as a
913. 1:14:25–1:14:26keepsake.
914. 1:14:26–1:14:31So long as it remains with her, this remedy will work.
915. 1:14:31–1:14:37Priyam Vada, look, our friend rests her face upon her left hand and sits like a painted
916. 1:14:37–1:14:39figure.
917. 1:14:39–1:14:45She is so absorbed in thoughts of her husband that she has no awareness even of herself.
918. 1:14:45–1:14:48How could she notice an unfamiliar visitor?
919. 1:14:48–1:14:54Dear Anzuya, let the matter of the curse remain between you and me alone.
920. 1:14:54–1:14:58We must protect our tender-hearted friend.
921. 1:14:58–1:15:01Who would sprinkle hot water upon a jasmine wine?
922. 1:15:01–1:15:02They exit.
923. 1:15:02–1:15:05End of the introductory scene.
924. 1:15:05–1:15:08A disciple of Kashyapa enters.
925. 1:15:08–1:15:10Newly awakened.
926. 1:15:10–1:15:16The revered Kasyapa, returned from Prabhasa, has sent me to determine the hour.
927. 1:15:16–1:15:21I shall go into the open and see how much of the night remains.
928. 1:15:21–1:15:22Ah!
929. 1:15:22–1:15:23Dawn is breaking.
930. 1:15:23–1:15:29For the rising light of morning reddens the mist hanging from the trees.
931. 1:15:29–1:15:31Peacocks!
932. 1:15:31–1:15:32Shaking off sleep.
933. 1:15:32–1:15:35Leave the kusa-thatched cottages.
934. 1:15:35–1:15:42And this deer, lying beside the hoof-scratched edge of the sacrificial altar, starts awake,
935. 1:15:42–1:15:46stretches its limbs and stands.
936. 1:15:46–1:15:52And further, the moon, who spread his rays below and set his foot upon the summit of mighty
937. 1:15:52–1:15:58Mount Sumeru, who drove away darkness and reached the middle stride of Vishnu, now descends
938. 1:15:58–1:16:02from the sky with only a few rays remaining.
939. 1:16:02–1:16:08the loftiest rise of the great ends at last in decline. The sun and moon seem to show
940. 1:16:08–1:16:13the world this truth. Prosperity and adversity are unstable.
941. 1:16:13–1:16:204. On one side the moon, Lord of healing herbs, descends towards the western mountain
942. 1:16:20–1:16:27of setting. On the other, the sun appears with the proclamation of dawn. By the setting
943. 1:16:27–1:16:33and rising of these two lights at the same moment. The world is bound to the alternating
944. 1:16:33–1:16:41fortunes of life. And at this hour, now that the moon has vanished, that same pool of night
945. 1:16:41–1:16:48lotuses no longer delights my eyes. Its beauty survives only in memory. Surely the pain
946. 1:16:48–1:16:53caused by a beloved's absence is unbearable to a helpless woman.
947. 1:16:53–1:16:58A N-A-S-U-Y-A enters, drawing back the curtain.
948. 1:16:58–1:17:08Even the sage, detached from worldly pleasure, could not have known that the king would behave so basely towards Shakuntala.
949. 1:17:08–1:17:12I shall report that the appointed hour has come.
950. 1:17:12–1:17:22I am awake, but what can I do? Though I have risen, my hands and feet have no strength to perform the tasks I planned for this morning.
951. 1:17:22–1:17:27My tender hearted friend placed her trust in a man who has broken his word.
952. 1:17:27–1:17:30May the God of love be satisfied now.
953. 1:17:30–1:17:34Or perhaps the royal sage is not at fault.
954. 1:17:34–1:17:37Durvasa's anger is obstructing him.
955. 1:17:37–1:17:46Otherwise, how could the royal sage, who spoke such words, fail to send even one letter after so much time?
956. 1:17:46–1:17:49We could send the ring from here to remind him.
957. 1:17:49–1:17:55But among these hermits, equated only with austerity, whom would we dare to tell?
958. 1:17:55–1:17:59And they would think, her friends are to blame.
959. 1:17:59–1:18:03So we are helpless. Who will tell father Kashyapa?
960. 1:18:03–1:18:09Now returned from Prabhasha, that Shakuntala has married Dushyanta and is pregnant?
961. 1:18:09–1:18:14What can we do in such a situation? Priyam Vada enters.
962. 1:18:14–1:18:19Ansuya, the rites for Shakuntala's departure have begun.
963. 1:18:19–1:18:22My friend, how has that happened?
964. 1:18:22–1:18:27Listen, Ansuya, I had just gone to Shakuntala.
965. 1:18:27–1:18:32She had risen from a peaceful sleep and was bowing shyly when Father Kashyapur embraced
966. 1:18:32–1:18:34her and said,
967. 1:18:34–1:18:41Fortunately, though smoke wailed my sight, my oblation fell into the sacred fire.
968. 1:18:41–1:18:46Like knowledge entrusted to a worthy pupil, you have not become a cause of sorrow to
969. 1:18:46–1:18:47me.
970. 1:18:47–1:18:53Therefore, today itself I shall send you with the sages to your husband's home."
971. 1:18:53–1:18:57Then who told father what had happened to Shakuntala?
972. 1:18:57–1:19:03When father entered the fire sanctuary, a heavenly voice spoke in the form of a Vedic
973. 1:19:03–1:19:05verse.
974. 1:19:05–1:19:07What did it say?
975. 1:19:07–1:19:13Listen, my friend, O Brahman, know this, for the welfare of the world.
976. 1:19:13–1:19:18The daughter bears within her the heroic seed implanted by Dushyanta, as the shani tree
977. 1:19:18–1:19:21bears fire within itself.
978. 1:19:21–1:19:28My friend, I am overjoyed, yet knowing that Shakuntala is being sent away, I feel a happiness
979. 1:19:28–1:19:31that is almost sorrow.
980. 1:19:31–1:19:35Put aside your grief, may she be happy now.
981. 1:19:35–1:19:36Good!
982. 1:19:36–1:19:42In a coconut casket hanging from the branch of that mango tree, I have kept some long-lasting
983. 1:19:42–1:19:49lotus fibres for this very occasion. Bring them, I shall mix yellow Gorochana from the
984. 1:19:49–1:19:55deer, earth from the holy place, and shoots of sacred grass to prepare her auspicious
985. 1:19:55–1:20:04cosmetic paste." Command Shangarava and his companions prepare to escort Shakantala.
986. 1:20:04–1:20:11Ansoya, Hari, Hari. The sages are preparing to leave for Hestinapura.
987. 1:20:11–1:20:25My friend, come, let us go. There is Shakuntala. As the sun rises, the female ascetics, carrying bowls of wild grain, are blessing her and bidding her farewell.
988. 1:20:25–1:20:28Some, let us go to her.
989. 1:20:28–1:20:34Shakuntala enters seated as described, with Gautami and the female ascetics.
990. 1:20:34–1:20:40Child, through your husband's special honour, attain the rank of Chief Queen.
991. 1:20:40–1:20:44Child, bear a heroic son.
992. 1:20:44–1:20:47All accept Gautami bless her in exit.
993. 1:20:47–1:20:50My friend, may you be happy.
994. 1:20:50–1:20:53Dear friends, welcome.
995. 1:20:53–1:20:54Sit here.
996. 1:20:54–1:21:01Dear Shakhintala, Stand up. We shall apply the auspicious paste to your body.
997. 1:21:01–1:21:08Though I am accustomed to this, today it seems very precious. From now on, I shall really
998. 1:21:08–1:21:11be adorned by my friend's hands.
999. 1:21:11–1:21:17My friend, one must not weep on an auspicious occasion long desired.
1000. 1:21:17–1:21:22Your beauty deserves jewels. These ornaments readily available in the hermitage do it
1001. 1:21:22–1:21:29Here are ornaments. Adorn the lady. All look on in amazement.
1002. 1:21:29–1:21:34Harita, my son, where did these come from?
1003. 1:21:34–1:21:37Through Father Kashyapa's grace.
1004. 1:21:37–1:21:40Were they obtained by mere resolve?
1005. 1:21:40–1:21:47No. Listen. At our revered father's command, we went to gather flowers.
1006. 1:21:47–1:21:54At our revered father's command, we went to gather flowers from the trees for Shakuntala.
1007. 1:21:54–1:21:59There, one tree gave an auspicious silk garment.
1008. 1:21:59–1:22:05White as moonlight, one poured out red-lac die, ready to be applied to her feet.
1009. 1:22:05–1:22:14And from other trees, the hands of forest deities, extending to the wrists and rivaling the beauty of fresh shoots,
1010. 1:22:14–1:22:16Offer us ornaments.
1011. 1:22:16–1:22:21My friend, this foretells extraordinary good fortune.
1012. 1:22:21–1:22:25You will enjoy royal splendor in your husband's home.
1013. 1:22:25–1:22:28My friend, how beautiful you look now.
1014. 1:22:28–1:22:31Like a bee born in a hollow.
1015. 1:22:31–1:22:34You are longing for the nectar of the lotus.
1016. 1:22:34–1:22:37I have never worn ornaments like these.
1017. 1:22:37–1:22:42I shall arrange them upon your body as I have seen them in paintings.
1018. 1:22:42–1:22:48I know your skill. The two friends act putting on the ornaments.
1019. 1:22:48–1:22:58Gautama. Come. Let us tell Father Kashapa, who has gone down to bathe, of the generosity of the trees.
1020. 1:22:58–1:23:03Come. K.A.S.H.Y.A.P.A. enters after bathing.
1021. 1:23:03–1:23:12At the mere thought, Shakuntala will leave today, my heart fills with the pain of separation.
1022. 1:23:12–1:23:20My throat aches with restrained tears. My sight is blurred by anxiety. If affection makes
1023. 1:23:20–1:23:28even me, a forest-dwelling ascetic, so sorrowful, how deeply must the hearts of householders
1024. 1:23:28–1:23:35be crushed by the fresh grief of parting from a daughter.
1025. 1:23:35–1:23:43Dear Shakuntala, your adornment is complete. Now put on this silk garment.
1026. 1:23:43–1:23:53Child, your father is here. His eyes filled with tears of joy as though they were embracing you. Bout to him.
1027. 1:23:53–1:23:56Father, I bow to you.
1028. 1:23:56–1:24:01My daughter, as Sharmishta was honored by Yaiyati,
1029. 1:24:01–1:24:04so may you be honored by your husband,
1030. 1:24:04–1:24:07and as she gave birth to Puru,
1031. 1:24:07–1:24:12so may you bear a son who will be universal emperor.
1032. 1:24:12–1:24:17Venerable sir, that is not a blessing but a boon.
1033. 1:24:17–1:24:24Daughter, quickly walk clockwise around the sacrificial fires that bear the oblations.
1034. 1:24:24–1:24:29May these three sacred fires protect you. Set around the altar.
1035. 1:24:30–1:24:32Kept alive with fuel.
1036. 1:24:32–1:24:35They're bored as strewn with coosa grass.
1037. 1:24:35–1:24:39And driving away evil with the fragrance of the offerings.
1038. 1:24:40–1:24:42Daughter, now depart.
1039. 1:24:43–1:24:46Where are Shangarava and his companions?
1040. 1:24:46–1:24:49The three disciples enter together.
1041. 1:24:50–1:24:52Venerable sir, we are here.
1042. 1:24:52–1:24:58Shangarava, lead the way for your sister.
1043. 1:24:58–1:25:01This way, this way, lady.
1044. 1:25:01–1:25:09Daughter Shakuntala, give this message to the trees of the Hermitage, within whom deities
1045. 1:25:09–1:25:16dwell, she who would not drink water until she had watered you, who, though fond of
1046. 1:25:16–1:25:22ornaments. Would not pluck your shoots out of love for you. For whom the opening of your
1047. 1:25:22–1:25:30first blossom was a festival. That Shakuntala is going to her husband's home. Grant her
1048. 1:25:30–1:25:32leave to depart.
1049. 1:25:32–1:25:39May her road be pleasantly varied by pools filled with lotus-bearing water. May shady trees
1050. 1:25:39–1:25:44ward off the burning rays of the sun. May the dust be soft as lotus pollen floating
1051. 1:25:44–1:25:52upon water. May a gentle, favourable breeze blow, and may her journey be auspicious. All
1052. 1:25:52–1:25:58listen in amazement. These trees, her companions during her forest
1053. 1:25:58–1:26:05life, have granted Shakuntala leave to depart. For in the sweet voices of cacus they have
1054. 1:26:05–1:26:07answered your words.
1055. 1:26:07–1:26:16Child! The deities of the Hermitage have lovingly given you leave as kinsmen would. Bow to the Goddesses.
1056. 1:26:16–1:26:25Dear Priyam Vada, though I long to see my lord, my feet move away from the Hermitage only with great pain.
1057. 1:26:25–1:26:34It is not only your friends who grieve to part from you. As your departure draws near, the sacred grove itself appears sorrowful.
1058. 1:26:34–1:26:40Four, the door has let the KUSA grass fall from her mouth.
1059. 1:26:40–1:26:44The peacock has ceased dancing and stands dejected.
1060. 1:26:44–1:26:48The wine shed yellow leaves like limbs trembling with grief.
1061. 1:26:48–1:26:54Father, let me bid farewell to my wine sister, Madhavi.
1062. 1:26:54–1:26:58I know your sisterly affection for her.
1063. 1:26:58–1:27:00Greet her there on your right.
1064. 1:27:00–1:27:07Mother, embrace me with your branch like arms from today, I shall live far away from you.
1065. 1:27:07–1:27:19Daughter, her care is mine now. See, the worthy husband I once desired for you, you have one for yourself through your own merit.
1066. 1:27:19–1:27:27Now, freed from anxiety for you, I shall arrange her marriage with this neighboring mango tree.
1067. 1:27:27–1:27:34I entrust her to you both. And into whose hands are we being entrusted?
1068. 1:27:34–1:27:41Anna Suya, stop weeping. Should you not give Shaktala courage?
1069. 1:27:41–1:27:50Father, when this pregnant door that wanders near the cottage gives birth, please send someone to bring me the happy news.
1070. 1:27:50–1:27:53Daughter, I shall not forget.
1071. 1:27:53–1:28:00Who is this that has come so close and seems to be tugging at the edge of her garment?
1072. 1:28:00–1:28:08Daughter, this is the fawn whose mouth, wounded by the point of coo-so-grass, you anointed
1073. 1:28:08–1:28:15with healing in good-y oil, whom you raise like a sun, feeding him handful after handful
1074. 1:28:15–1:28:18of shamaka grain.
1075. 1:28:18–1:28:20He will not let you leave him behind.
1076. 1:28:20–1:28:27Little one, why do you follow me? Who have shown you such faithless affection by leaving
1077. 1:28:27–1:28:34my companions? Your mother died immediately after giving birth to you. And I raised you
1078. 1:28:34–1:28:43when you were motherless. Now I too am leaving you. Father will care for you. Go back. Therefore.
1079. 1:28:43–1:28:49Daughter. Restrain the stream of tears about to burst forth. Which obscures the sight
1080. 1:28:49–1:28:58of your uplifted. Long, lashed eyes. The hollows and ridges of the path are no longer clear,
1081. 1:28:58–1:29:04and therefore your steps are faltering. Scripture directs that a loved one be accompanied
1082. 1:29:04–1:29:10as far as the water's edge. This is the bank of the lake. Give us your instructions here
1083. 1:29:10–1:29:15and then return. Let us sit in the shade of this peep-hole
1084. 1:29:15–1:29:23tree. They all sit and remain there. What message should I now send to King Dushyanta?
1085. 1:29:23–1:29:30Dear friend, there is no creature in the hermitage that is not saddened by your departure. Look
1086. 1:29:30–1:29:37here, the Chakravak hen calls to her mate. Who is hidden behind a lotus leaf? Though
1087. 1:29:37–1:29:44the fiber he was eating falls from his mouth. He does not answer, but looks towards you.
1088. 1:29:44–1:29:49My friend, it is true, unable to see her mate.
1089. 1:29:49–1:29:56Though he is hidden by a nearby lotus leaf, the Chakravaka cries pitifully, ah, how much
1090. 1:29:56–1:29:58suffering my India.
1091. 1:29:58–1:30:04Quote, tonight again she will pass a night lengthened by pain without her beloved.
1092. 1:30:04–1:30:09The bond of hope makes even profound sorrow bearable.
1093. 1:30:09–1:30:14Shant Gaurava, speak to the king about Shakuntala in my name as follows.
1094. 1:30:15–1:30:18Command me, revered teacher.
1095. 1:30:19–1:30:25Consider well our life of disciplined restraint, your own exalted lineage,
1096. 1:30:26–1:30:31and the spontaneous affection that drew her to you without the mediation of her family.
1097. 1:30:32–1:30:35Then honour her as you honour your other wives.
1098. 1:30:35–1:30:38What lies beyond this rests with fate.
1099. 1:30:39–1:30:43A woman's relatives do not beg on her behalf.
1100. 1:30:43–1:30:46I have committed the message to memory.
1101. 1:30:46–1:30:50Daughter, now I must instruct you.
1102. 1:30:50–1:30:56Though we live in the forest, we understand the ways of the world.
1103. 1:30:56–1:31:01Nothing truly lies beyond the vision of the wise.
1104. 1:31:01–1:31:05Daughter, when you reach your husband's home,
1105. 1:31:05–1:31:13Obey your elders. Treat your co-wives as sincere friends. Even if your husband neglects you,
1106. 1:31:13–1:31:22do not answer in anger. Always be courteous to the servants. Do not grow proud in prosperity.
1107. 1:31:22–1:31:29In this way a young woman becomes mistress of her household. One who acts otherwise becomes
1108. 1:31:29–1:31:36the misfortune of her family. Gautami, what do you think?
1109. 1:31:36–1:31:42This is all the instruction a young bride needs. Child, remember it well.
1110. 1:31:42–1:31:49Daughter, come and embrace me. Father, must my friends turn back from here?
1111. 1:31:49–1:31:57Daughter, they too must marry someday. It would not be proper for them to go there.
1112. 1:31:57–1:32:00Gautami will accompany you.
1113. 1:32:00–1:32:05How shall I preserve my life when I am separated from father?
1114. 1:32:05–1:32:09Like is she elephant parted from her herd?
1115. 1:32:09–1:32:11Why are you so overcome?
1116. 1:32:11–1:32:16Become the honored mistress of a worthy husband's noble house.
1117. 1:32:16–1:32:20Remain occupied every moment with his important affairs.
1118. 1:32:20–1:32:24And soon, like the eastern sky,
1119. 1:32:24–1:32:27Give birth to a sun radiant as the sun.
1120. 1:32:27–1:32:30Who will fulfill you?
1121. 1:32:30–1:32:35Then this grief of separation from me will seem insignificant.
1122. 1:32:35–1:32:36And remember this.
1123. 1:32:36–1:32:43When the complete separation of soul and body is inevitable, who should be overwhelmed by
1124. 1:32:43–1:32:46the pain of cutting away a boil?
1125. 1:32:46–1:32:50May every desire of yours be fulfilled.
1126. 1:32:50–1:32:54My friends, embrace me together, both at once.
1127. 1:32:54–1:33:02My friend, if the king is slow to remember you, show him this ring in rave with his name.
1128. 1:33:02–1:33:07Even at the moment of farewell, compassion is being shown to me.
1129. 1:33:07–1:33:13Do not be anxious, affection is always filled with fear of misfortune.
1130. 1:33:13–1:33:17The sun has crossed into the second half of the sky.
1131. 1:33:17–1:33:21Lady, therefore, make haste.
1132. 1:33:21–1:33:25This way, this way, lady, they all move forward.
1133. 1:33:25–1:33:30Father, when shall I see this sacred grove again?
1134. 1:33:30–1:33:33Daughter, listen.
1135. 1:33:33–1:33:38When you have become co-wife with the earth that stretches to every horizon.
1136. 1:33:38–1:33:46When you have borne the son of Dushyanta, unconquered in battle, and when that son has taken the
1137. 1:33:46–1:33:54burden of the kingdom upon himself, then, accompanied only by your husband, you shall set foot once
1138. 1:33:54–1:33:57more in this peaceful hermitage.
1139. 1:33:57–1:34:02Child, the proper time for departure is passing.
1140. 1:34:02–1:34:05Let your father return now.
1141. 1:34:05–1:34:06But no.
1142. 1:34:06–1:34:11However long we wait, she will not tell her father to go back.
1143. 1:34:11–1:34:16Revved teacher, you must turn back of your own accord.
1144. 1:34:16–1:34:20Daughter, my austerities are being interrupted.
1145. 1:34:20–1:34:23I must return now.
1146. 1:34:23–1:34:30Father will soon be free of sorrow, but I am carrying sorrow away upon my own head.
1147. 1:34:30–1:34:31Ah!
1148. 1:34:31–1:34:34Why do you make me so distraught?
1149. 1:34:34–1:34:35Daughter,
1150. 1:34:35–1:34:42When I see at the cottage door the grains of wild rice you planted with your own hand only now.
1151. 1:34:42–1:34:46Beginning to sprout. How shall my grief be calmed?
1152. 1:34:47–1:34:51Daughter. Go. May your path be auspicious.
1153. 1:34:52–1:34:57S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A exits with her companions.
1154. 1:34:58–1:35:03Ah! Shakuntala is no longer visible, hidden by the rows of trees.
1155. 1:35:03–1:35:14Anasuya, your companion in sacred duty has gone. Restrain your grief. I am returning. Follow me.
1156. 1:35:14–1:35:19Father, without Shakuntala the sacred grove seems desolate.
1157. 1:35:19–1:35:41Affection makes things appear so. Strange. Now that I have sent Shaktala away, my mind has grown light. Why? A daughter is truly another man's treasure. Now that I have sent her to her husband's home, my inmost spirit is at peace.
1158. 1:35:41–1:35:46as when a deposit long held in trust has been returned.
1159. 1:35:46–1:35:49All exit. End of Act 4 of
1160. 1:35:49–1:35:54Shakhantala, a play by the great poet Kalidasa.
1161. 1:35:54–1:36:00The Chamberlain enters.
1162. 1:36:00–1:36:03Ah, how old I have grown.
1163. 1:36:03–1:36:07When I was given charge of the royal inner apartments,
1164. 1:36:07–1:36:10I accepted this staff of office thinking.
1165. 1:36:10–1:36:13It is merely a traditional formality.
1166. 1:36:13–1:36:20but with the passing of time. Now that I can scarcely summon the strength to walk,
1167. 1:36:20–1:36:26that same staff has become my support. I must inform His Majesty,
1168. 1:36:26–1:36:32who is within of a matter that admits no delay. But what was it?
1169. 1:36:32–1:36:40Yes, I recall. Hermits. Disciples of Canva. Desire an audience with the King.
1170. 1:36:40–1:36:49King. Ah. How strange. An old man's understanding suddenly awakens for a moment, then is surrounded
1171. 1:36:49–1:36:57again by darkness. Like the flame of a lamp that seems about to go out. He walks on.
1172. 1:36:57–1:37:03Mordgallia. I wish to inform his majesty of an unavoidable religious duty. What do you
1173. 1:37:03–1:37:08say? But the king has only just risen from the seat of justice and will be disturbed
1174. 1:37:08–1:37:16again. Such is the burden of governing the world. See, the sun has yoked his horses once
1175. 1:37:16–1:37:23and for all. The wind blows day and night. Fire has no rest from burning, and the duty
1176. 1:37:23–1:37:30of a king who receives one sixth in taxes is equally unceasing. What do you say? Then
1177. 1:37:30–1:37:37go to the pavilion beside the music hall. Good. Continue with your own task. I shall
1178. 1:37:37–1:37:45go there. His majesty is here. He protects his subjects like the lawgiver Manu, and after
1179. 1:37:45–1:37:52tending the herd all day, like a great elephant heated by the sun retiring to a cool place.
1180. 1:37:52–1:37:59He rests in solitude. Where he in mind. The king and the clown enter seated. Surrounded
1181. 1:37:59–1:38:01by attendants.
1182. 1:38:01–1:38:04Ah, is that not the music hall?
1183. 1:38:04–1:38:08Listen, the notes of Avina are sounding in perfect measure.
1184. 1:38:08–1:38:09I understand.
1185. 1:38:09–1:38:13Hansa Padika must be practicing her voice.
1186. 1:38:13–1:38:15Madhavya, be quiet.
1187. 1:38:15–1:38:17Let me hear.
1188. 1:38:17–1:38:20Ah, his majesty is absorbed.
1189. 1:38:20–1:38:23I shall wait for a suitable moment.
1190. 1:38:23–1:38:27Oh, B. Greedy for fresh honey.
1191. 1:38:27–1:38:29You once kissed the mango blossom.
1192. 1:38:29–1:38:32Why have you forgotten it now?
1193. 1:38:32–1:38:35Content merely to hover over the lotus?
1194. 1:38:35–1:38:39Ah, a song filled with feeling and melody.
1195. 1:38:39–1:38:43What, have you understood its meaning?
1196. 1:38:43–1:38:44My friend.
1197. 1:38:44–1:38:46I once loved her.
1198. 1:38:46–1:38:50Therefore she reproaches me about Queen Vasumati.
1199. 1:38:50–1:38:53Tell Hansa Paddika in my name.
1200. 1:38:53–1:38:56Your rebuke is skillfully delivered.
1201. 1:38:56–1:39:02Your Majesty commands. My friend, you are trying to seize a bear by the hair through another
1202. 1:39:02–1:39:09man's hand. Like a man who has not mastered his own desires. I shall find no escape now.
1203. 1:39:09–1:39:17Go, my friend. Speak to her courteously. Ah, what a disaster.
1204. 1:39:17–1:39:23How is it that this song has filled me with profound longing? Though I am not separated
1205. 1:39:23–1:39:30from any beloved. Or perhaps even a happy man grows wistful at a lovely sight or the sound
1206. 1:39:30–1:39:38of sweet words. Perhaps his mind unknowingly remembers deep affection from a former birth.
1207. 1:39:38–1:39:40Victory to Your Majesty
1208. 1:39:40–1:39:46Hermits who live in the forest at the Himalayan foothills are approaching with women. They
1209. 1:39:46–1:39:52bring a message from Kashyapa. Having heard this, it is for Your Majesty to decide
1210. 1:39:52–1:39:58what is proper. Hermits bearing a message from Kasyapa, accompanied
1211. 1:39:58–1:40:07by women. What are your orders? Request the Preceptor Somerata in my name. Receive these
1212. 1:40:07–1:40:14inhabitants of the Hermitage according to scriptural custom, and bring them to me yourself. I too
1213. 1:40:14–1:40:18shall receive them in a place suitable for the audience of.
1214. 1:40:18–1:40:28As your majesty commands. Vasumati, show me the way to the fire sanctuary.
1215. 1:40:28–1:40:37This way, this way, your majesty. Everyone is happy when he obtains what he desires.
1216. 1:40:37–1:40:44But kings suffer even after gaining the object of desire. How? Sovereignty merely quiets
1217. 1:40:44–1:40:51the longing for power. Preserving what has been gained brings only pain. Royal authority
1218. 1:40:51–1:40:58relieves weariness less than it increases it. Like a parasol held aloft by one's own hand
1219. 1:40:58–1:41:09upon its shaft. O-F-F-S-T-A-G-E. B-A-R-D. Victory to your Majesty. Day after day you labor
1220. 1:41:09–1:41:15for the welfare of the world, with no thought for your own comfort, but such is the purpose
1221. 1:41:15–1:41:21of your birth. A tree bears the fierce sun upon its own crown and gives coolness to those
1222. 1:41:21–1:41:29who seek refuge in its shade. And more, with the rod of punishment in hand, you discipline
1223. 1:41:29–1:41:36those who stray from the right path. You settle disputes and grant protection. When wealth
1224. 1:41:36–1:41:44is plentiful. Relatives may remain close. But in the end, the duty of a kinsman towards
1225. 1:41:44–1:41:52the people falls upon you alone. My weary mind is refreshed. Here is the terrace of the fire
1226. 1:41:52–1:42:01sanctuary. Freshly plastered and swept. With a tawny cow standing nearby. Your Majesty!
1227. 1:42:01–1:42:03Ascend.
1228. 1:42:03–1:42:05Vasumati.
1229. 1:42:05–1:42:10For what purpose can the revered Kishyapa have sent these sages to me?
1230. 1:42:10–1:42:15Has some obstacle arisen in the austerities of the vow keeping ascetics?
1231. 1:42:15–1:42:20Or is someone harming the animals of the sacred forest?
1232. 1:42:20–1:42:24Have the vine cease to flower because of some offence of mine?
1233. 1:42:24–1:42:26Filled with many conjectures.
1234. 1:42:26–1:42:32My mind is confused and cannot reach a firm conclusion."
1235. 1:42:32–1:42:38Your Majesty's arms embrace the earth, and therefore every hermitage is free from fear.
1236. 1:42:38–1:42:41How could any such thing happen?
1237. 1:42:41–1:42:44I believe the sages have come.
1238. 1:42:44–1:42:47Pleased by your Majesty's virtuous deeds.
1239. 1:42:47–1:42:48To offer praise.
1240. 1:42:48–1:42:58The sages enter with G-A-U-T-A-M-I. S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A walks before them. The priest and chamberlain
1241. 1:42:58–1:43:08lead the procession. This way, this way, venerable sirs, they move forward. It is true. When a
1242. 1:43:08–1:43:14generous king does not transgress the bounds of conduct, even the lowest person in the
1243. 1:43:14–1:43:18The social order does not stray from the proper path.
1244. 1:43:18–1:43:19Yet to my mind.
1245. 1:43:19–1:43:22Acustomed always to solitude.
1246. 1:43:22–1:43:27This building crowded with people seems like a blazing fire.
1247. 1:43:27–1:43:31It is natural that entering the city should distress you so.
1248. 1:43:31–1:43:33I too.
1249. 1:43:33–1:43:35Being a free man.
1250. 1:43:35–1:43:40Look upon these people enslaved by pleasure as a bathed man looks upon one smeared with
1251. 1:43:40–1:43:42filth.
1252. 1:43:42–1:43:49A pure man upon the impure, a waking man upon sleepers, and one who moves at will upon the
1253. 1:43:49–1:43:50bound.
1254. 1:43:50–1:43:56Ah, why is my right eye throbbing at this moment?
1255. 1:43:56–1:43:58May evil be averted.
1256. 1:43:58–1:44:03May the guardian deities of your husband's family grant you happiness.
1257. 1:44:03–1:44:04Holy men!
1258. 1:44:04–1:44:07Behold his majesty!
1259. 1:44:07–1:44:15of all four social orders and stages of life, risen from his seat and waiting for you.
1260. 1:44:15–1:44:23Great Brahmin! This is certainly praiseworthy. Yet it leaves us unmoved. Why? A tree bends
1261. 1:44:23–1:44:30low beneath its load of fruit. A cloud heavy with fresh water hangs low. The virtuous
1262. 1:44:30–1:44:35do not grow proud when they gain wealth. Such is the nature of those who live for
1263. 1:44:35–1:44:43others. Your Majesty, the Sages' faces appear peaceful and inspire confidence.
1264. 1:44:43–1:44:51Then this woman. Who can this veiled woman be? Whose bodily beauty is not fully revealed?
1265. 1:44:51–1:44:56Among these ascetics like a fresh bud among yellow leaves.
1266. 1:44:56–1:45:02Your Majesty, my curiosity too has increased. I know nothing.
1267. 1:45:02–1:45:06Your Majesty, her beauty is worth seeing.
1268. 1:45:06–1:45:10One must not gaze upon another man's wife.
1269. 1:45:10–1:45:13Heart, why do you tremble?
1270. 1:45:13–1:45:17Remember my Lord's unwavering love and be calm.
1271. 1:45:17–1:45:23Your Majesty, these ascetics have been received according to custom.
1272. 1:45:23–1:45:26They bring their teacher's message.
1273. 1:45:26–1:45:27Please hear it.
1274. 1:45:27–1:45:30I am listening attentively.
1275. 1:45:30–1:45:32Victory to the King
1276. 1:45:32–1:45:34I salute you all.
1277. 1:45:34–1:45:36May you prosper.
1278. 1:45:36–1:45:41Are your austerities proceeding without obstruction?
1279. 1:45:41–1:45:44While you remain our protector,
1280. 1:45:44–1:45:48what obstacle could arise in the sacred rites of the virtuous?
1281. 1:45:48–1:45:51When the sun blazes with fierce rays,
1282. 1:45:51–1:45:54how can darkness appear?
1283. 1:45:54–1:45:58Now my title, King, has been made meaningful.
1284. 1:45:58–1:46:05Is the revered Kashapa, who blesses the world through his grace, in good health?
1285. 1:46:05–1:46:13Perfected beings are masters of their own well-being. After asking after your Majesty's welfare,
1286. 1:46:13–1:46:15he sends this message.
1287. 1:46:15–1:46:19What is the venerable sages' command?
1288. 1:46:19–1:46:26You too married this daughter of mine by mutual consent. I am pleased and give you both my approval.
1289. 1:46:26–1:46:34Four. I regard you as the foremost of worthy men, and Shakhantala is virtue embodied in
1290. 1:46:34–1:46:40joining bride and groom of equal merit. The creator has at last performed a praiseworthy
1291. 1:46:40–1:46:48deed. Now accept her. Pregnant with your child, and fulfill the duties of marriage."
1292. 1:46:48–1:47:07Noble sir, I am eager to speak. Though it may not be proper for me. Why? She did not consult her elders. And you did not ask her relatives. Since you chose one another, what can either side say to the other now?
1293. 1:47:07–1:47:10What will my lord say now?
1294. 1:47:10–1:47:14Ah! What is the meaning of this statement of yours?
1295. 1:47:14–1:47:20Ah, his doubt about this matter burns like fire.
1296. 1:47:20–1:47:21What is this?
1297. 1:47:21–1:47:28His Majesty surely understands the ways of the world, even when a married woman is virtuous.
1298. 1:47:28–1:47:34If she remains only in her parents' home, people suspect her character.
1299. 1:47:34–1:47:39Therefore, her relatives sent her to the man who married her.
1300. 1:47:39–1:47:42Whether that husband loves her or not.
1301. 1:47:42–1:47:44Did I marry this woman?
1302. 1:47:44–1:47:47Heart, your fear has proved true.
1303. 1:47:47–1:47:54Oh King, is it not a dereliction of royal duty to denounce your own deed?
1304. 1:47:54–1:47:58Why this inclination to invent falsehoods?
1305. 1:47:58–1:48:05Such degradation, born of intoxication with power, commonly robs a man of reason.
1306. 1:48:05–1:48:08I am being grossly insulted.
1307. 1:48:08–1:48:18Child, put aside your modesty for a moment. I shall remove your veil. Then His Majesty will recognize you.
1308. 1:48:18–1:48:36As I try to determine whether I ever married this woman of flawless beauty, now presented before me in this way, I can neither accept her nor reject her. Like a be at dawn, uncertain before a jasmine flower heavy with dew.
1309. 1:48:36–1:48:44Ah, how deeply His Majesty reveres righteousness! Who else would hesitate when such a duel among
1310. 1:48:44–1:48:47women is so easily offered?
1311. 1:48:47–1:48:50Oh, King, why are you so silent?
1312. 1:48:50–1:48:58Hermit! I have thought deeply, yet I do not remember marrying this lady. How then can
1313. 1:48:58–1:49:05I accept a woman who claims me as her husband while displaying the faint signs of pregnancy?
1314. 1:49:05–1:49:14Ah, he doubts even the marriage. My hope, which had risen to touch the sky, is shattered.
1315. 1:49:14–1:49:20This is not right. Will you insult the sage whose daughter you seduced and dishonoured?
1316. 1:49:20–1:49:27He welcomed you to accept what is yours. And, like a robber, you deemed yourself a worthy
1317. 1:49:27–1:49:29recipient.
1318. 1:49:29–1:49:42Shangarava, be silent now. Shakantala, we have said what we had to say. This is His Majesty's statement. Give Him proof.
1319. 1:49:42–1:49:55What use is it now to remind a man who has changed so completely? Whose love lasted so little a time? Yet I must clear my name. And therefore I shall answer him.
1320. 1:49:55–1:50:00My lord! No! This form of address itself is now disputed.
1321. 1:50:00–1:50:08Son of Puru! In the hermitage you made vows and seduced this woman of simple, innocent heart.
1322. 1:50:08–1:50:12Is it right to abandon her now with words like these?
1323. 1:50:12–1:50:19Stop these sinful words! Why try to stain your own name and drag me towards ruin?
1324. 1:50:19–1:50:27Like a swollen river breaking its banks. You muddy your own clear water and uproot the trees along the shore.
1325. 1:50:27–1:50:39If you truly speak so because you fear accepting another man's wife, I shall remove your doubt by showing you this important token of recognition.
1326. 1:50:39–1:50:42Ah, how noble that sounds.
1327. 1:50:42–1:50:46Ah, the ring is not on my finger.
1328. 1:50:46–1:50:54Could it have slipped off when you immersed yourself in the water at Shachi's sacred pool at Indravatarra?
1329. 1:50:54–1:51:00Perhaps this is what is called the ready-witter woman receives with her dowry.
1330. 1:51:00–1:51:05Here fate has displayed its power. I shall tell you something else.
1331. 1:51:05–1:51:09Now something worth hearing is coming.
1332. 1:51:09–1:51:16One day in the jasmine wine-bower, did you not hold a lotus leaf cup filled with water?
1333. 1:51:16–1:51:19Yes, continue.
1334. 1:51:19–1:51:25At that moment my little fawn, whom I had raised like a son, came to us.
1335. 1:51:25–1:51:32You coaxed him lovingly and said, let him drink first, but because he did not know you.
1336. 1:51:32–1:51:38He would not drink from your hand. When he drank the same water from mine,
1337. 1:51:38–1:51:41You smiled affectionately and said,
1338. 1:51:41–1:51:44Everyone trusts one of his own kind.
1339. 1:51:44–1:51:47You are both forest dwellers.
1340. 1:51:47–1:51:50Women who conspire to achieve their own ends
1341. 1:51:50–1:51:55Trap pleasure loving men with the honey of such lies.
1342. 1:51:55–1:51:58Your Majesty, do not speak so.
1343. 1:51:58–1:52:00Reared in a sacred grove,
1344. 1:52:00–1:52:04She knows nothing of deceit or intrigue.
1345. 1:52:04–1:52:06Old ascetic woman,
1346. 1:52:06–1:52:09even among female creatures that are not human.
1347. 1:52:09–1:52:12Unschooled deceit is plainly seen.
1348. 1:52:12–1:52:16How much more must it exist in intelligent women
1349. 1:52:16–1:52:18before flying away?
1350. 1:52:18–1:52:21The cuckoo has another bird, raise her young.
1351. 1:52:21–1:52:26You see everything according to the disposition of your own heart.
1352. 1:52:26–1:52:30Who could equal you, armored in righteousness,
1353. 1:52:30–1:52:35yet inwardly deceitful, like a well hidden beneath grass?
1354. 1:52:35–1:52:42Yet this lady's guileless anger truly seems that of a woman reared in the forest for.
1355. 1:52:42–1:52:48Her eyes do not shoot side-long glances, but stare directly.
1356. 1:52:48–1:52:49Intensely red.
1357. 1:52:49–1:52:51Her voice is harsh.
1358. 1:52:51–1:52:53Yet her words remain clear.
1359. 1:52:53–1:52:59Her bimbo-red lower lip trembles as though stricken by cold, and her naturally arched
1360. 1:52:59–1:53:02brows have suddenly drawn together.
1361. 1:53:02–1:53:07Lady, Dushyanta's conduct is well known among his people.
1362. 1:53:07–1:53:10I perceive no such fault within myself.
1363. 1:53:11–1:53:13You yourself are the authority.
1364. 1:53:13–1:53:16You understand the ways of the world.
1365. 1:53:16–1:53:19What can poor, timid women know?
1366. 1:53:19–1:53:26Very well, because I trusted the house of Puru and fell into the hands of a man whose words were sweet, but
1367. 1:53:27–1:53:29whose heart concealed a knife.
1368. 1:53:29–1:53:31I have been made an adulteress.
1369. 1:53:32–1:53:44A deed performed in uncontrolled haste burns in just this way. Therefore, particularly before forming a bond, one must examine everything carefully.
1370. 1:53:44–1:53:51Affection given to one whose heart is unknown turns into hatred in this very way.
1371. 1:53:51–1:54:00Ah! Sir, why do you place such a grave stain upon me solely on the strength of this lady's assertion?
1372. 1:54:00–1:54:03His Majesty understands everything in reverse.
1373. 1:54:03–1:54:08The words of one who has never known deceit from birth are no proof.
1374. 1:54:08–1:54:14But those who have studied the art of deceiving others under the name of, statecraft, are holy.
1375. 1:54:14–1:54:17Trustworthy witnesses.
1376. 1:54:17–1:54:20Ah! Truth speaking, sir.
1377. 1:54:20–1:54:23Let us accept that I am a politician.
1378. 1:54:23–1:54:26But what could I gain by deceiving her?
1379. 1:54:26–1:54:28Ruin.
1380. 1:54:28–1:54:31I do not desire that.
1381. 1:54:31–1:54:35Oh King, what use is this dispute?
1382. 1:54:35–1:54:38We have fulfilled our teacher's command.
1383. 1:54:38–1:54:40We shall now take our leave.
1384. 1:54:40–1:54:42She is your wife.
1385. 1:54:42–1:54:45Accept her or abandon her.
1386. 1:54:45–1:54:50For a husband's authority over his wife is held to be absolute.
1387. 1:54:50–1:54:54Gautami, come. Let us go.
1388. 1:54:54–1:55:02Ah, this deceiver has truly betrayed me, and you two are leaving me behind. What recourse have I now?
1389. 1:55:03–1:55:16Shangarava. My son. Shakantala is following us. Lamenting piteously. When such a base husband rejects her. What is my daughter to do?
1390. 1:55:17–1:55:22Ah, shameless woman. Would you act entirely as you please?
1391. 1:55:22–1:55:31Listen. If what the king says is true, what connection can we have with you, who have brought grief upon your father?
1392. 1:55:31–1:55:39But if you know your conduct to be pure, then even living as a servant in your husband's house should be bearable to you.
1393. 1:55:39–1:55:42Remain here. We are leaving.
1394. 1:55:42–1:55:51Hermit, why are you deceiving this woman? The moon opens only the night lotus. The sun.
1395. 1:55:51–1:55:59Only the day lotus. The nature of a self-controlled man recoils from embracing another man's wife.
1396. 1:55:59–1:56:05O king! If absorption in another woman has made you forget your former conquest, what
1397. 1:56:05–1:56:11can be done? Your Majesty! Protector of your reputation!
1398. 1:56:11–1:56:17I wish to ask the revered priest, which of these possibilities is more likely.
1399. 1:56:17–1:56:22With doubt remaining whether I have forgotten or this woman is speaking falsely.
1400. 1:56:22–1:56:26Should I stain my own wife with disgrace?
1401. 1:56:26–1:56:30Or violate the honor of another man's wife?
1402. 1:56:30–1:56:32Suppose we do this?
1403. 1:56:32–1:56:35Please advise me.
1404. 1:56:35–1:56:38Let this lady remain in my house until she gives birth.
1405. 1:56:38–1:56:42I say this after due consideration.
1406. 1:56:42–1:56:46Wise men have foretold that your first son will be an Emperor.
1407. 1:56:46–1:56:53If the son of this sages daughter bears the marks of Imperial destiny, we shall congratulate
1408. 1:56:53–1:56:56her and welcome her into the inner palace.
1409. 1:56:56–1:57:01Otherwise, we shall return her to her father's home.
1410. 1:57:01–1:57:04As my revered teacher wishes.
1411. 1:57:04–1:57:06Daughter, follow me.
1412. 1:57:06–1:57:10Mother God, give me a place within you.
1413. 1:57:10–1:57:13A wonder! A wonder!
1414. 1:57:13–1:57:16What is happening now?
1415. 1:57:16–1:57:20Your Majesty, a marvel has occurred.
1416. 1:57:20–1:57:22What sort of marvel?
1417. 1:57:22–1:57:26After Canva's disciples had departed,
1418. 1:57:26–1:57:29while the young woman lamented her fate,
1419. 1:57:29–1:57:34and began to weep, and flung her arms upward.
1420. 1:57:34–1:57:36What happened then?
1421. 1:57:36–1:57:45Near the sacred pool of the celestial nymphs, a light in the form of a woman descended upon her and lifted her away.
1422. 1:57:45–1:57:55Rev. Teacher, I have already reached a decision on this matter. Why exhaust ourselves with idle conjecture?
1423. 1:57:55–1:57:58Victory to Your Majesty.
1424. 1:57:58–1:58:04Vasumati, I am troubled. Show me the way to the bedchamber.
1425. 1:58:04–1:58:08This way, Your Majesty, this way.
1426. 1:58:08–1:58:13Though I did not remember marrying the sage's daughter and therefore rejected her,
1427. 1:58:13–1:58:19my deeply afflicted heart seemed still to yearn for her. All exit.
1428. 1:58:19–1:58:28End of Act 5 of Shakhantala, a play by the great poet Kaladasa.
1429. 1:58:28–1:58:34The chief of police enters with a man whose hands are tied behind him and two guards.
1430. 1:58:34–1:58:40Thief! Confess! Where did you get this royal signet ring?
1431. 1:58:40–1:58:45Engraved with His Majesty's name and set with precious stones.
1432. 1:58:45–1:58:52Mercy! Mercy! Honourable brothers! I am not capable of such a deed.
1433. 1:58:52–1:58:59Perhaps the King mustook you for a holy brahmin and gave it to you as a present?
1434. 1:58:59–1:59:05Here my whole story first. I am a fisherman living near the sacred pool of Indravatara.
1435. 1:59:06–1:59:09Thief! Did we ask your caste?
1436. 1:59:10–1:59:15Satchaka! Let him tell everything in order. Stop interrupting.
1437. 1:59:16–1:59:22As our lord, the king's brother-in-law, commands. Speak! Speak!
1438. 1:59:23–1:59:27I support my family with nets, hooks, and other fishing gear.
1439. 1:59:27–1:59:32Ah, a very holy profession.
1440. 1:59:32–1:59:38Sir, it is said that a man must not abandon the hereditary calling of his family.
1441. 1:59:38–1:59:46Even if it is condemned, even compassionate and learned brahmin's mercilessly kill animals in sacrifice.
1442. 1:59:46–1:59:49Very well, very well.
1443. 1:59:49–1:59:56One day, while cutting open a rohu fish, I found this ring shining with jewels inside its belly.
1444. 1:59:56–2:00:01Later, while showing it to people here in the hope of selling it,
1445. 2:00:01–2:00:04your men seized me, that is how I found the ring.
1446. 2:00:04–2:00:07Now beat me or kill me.
1447. 2:00:07–2:00:11Januka. It certainly was inside a fish.
1448. 2:00:11–2:00:14That explains the stench of raw flesh.
1449. 2:00:14–2:00:20We must now investigate its origin. Come to the royal court.
1450. 2:00:20–2:00:24Move. Your Majesty the Pickpocket.
1451. 2:00:24–2:00:29Sutchacker, you too remain alert and wait for me at the main gate.
1452. 2:00:29–2:00:36I shall tell His Majesty how the ring was found. Receive His orders and return.
1453. 2:00:36–2:00:41May His Majesty receive our Lord favorably.
1454. 2:00:41–2:00:46Januka, our Lord is taking a very long time.
1455. 2:00:46–2:00:52Understand that one must wait for a proper opportunity to approach the King.
1456. 2:00:52–2:00:57My friend, my hands are itching to throttle this scoundrel.
1457. 2:00:57–2:01:05It is not proper to give an untimely death to a man addressed by the auspicious name, Brother.
1458. 2:01:05–2:01:09See, our master is returning with the king's command.
1459. 2:01:09–2:01:17Now you will either see your family's faces again or become a feast for vultures and jackals.
1460. 2:01:17–2:01:21Quickly, quickly, this man
1461. 2:01:21–2:01:23Ah, I am dead.
1462. 2:01:23–2:01:30Untie him. Release the fisherman. His account of the ring's origin has proved true.
1463. 2:01:30–2:01:33My Lord himself told me so.
1464. 2:01:33–2:01:40As our Lord commands, He entered the house of death and slipped out again through a crack.
1465. 2:01:40–2:01:44Master, my life belongs to you.
1466. 2:01:44–2:01:50Rise. You are being given a reward equal to the value of the ring.
1467. 2:01:50–2:01:53I have been shown great favor.
1468. 2:01:53–2:02:00such favor that he has been taken down from the stake and seated upon an elephant.
1469. 2:02:00–2:02:08My lord, this reward shows that his majesty holds that precious jeweled ring very dear.
1470. 2:02:08–2:02:12I do not think the king valued it for the jewels.
1471. 2:02:12–2:02:14Then why?
1472. 2:02:14–2:02:20I suspect that seeing it reminded his majesty of someone exceedingly dear.
1473. 2:02:20–2:02:29For the king, who is ordinarily self-controlled, became agitated for a moment as soon as he saw it.
1474. 2:02:29–2:02:34This fellow has done his majesty a good service.
1475. 2:02:34–2:02:38I would say the enemy of fishes has come out ahead.
1476. 2:02:38–2:02:44Masters, keep half of it for your expenses on flowers and beetle.
1477. 2:02:44–2:02:47That is nobly spoken.
1478. 2:02:47–2:02:53Fishman, you are now my dearest friend. A new friendship should be sealed with wine.
1479. 2:02:53–2:02:59Come, let us go to a tavern. All exit. End of the introductory scene.
1480. 2:03:00–2:03:04AKSHAMALA enters in an aerial chariot.
1481. 2:03:06–2:03:10I have completed my daily rites at the celestial nymph's bathing pool.
1482. 2:03:11–2:03:15Now I shall see for myself the royal sage's condition.
1483. 2:03:15–2:03:25Through my friendship with Manaka, Shakuntala has become dear to me, and Manaka herself sent me on this errand.
1484. 2:03:25–2:03:31How is it that even on a festival day the royal court is not decorated for celebration?
1485. 2:03:31–2:03:36It is true that through meditative power we can know everything.
1486. 2:03:36–2:03:43But I must honour my friend's wish. Good. Concealed by the magic of invisibility,
1487. 2:03:43–2:03:47I shall stand near these two gardeners and learn what has happened."
1488. 2:03:47–2:03:50A garden attendant enters,
1489. 2:03:50–2:03:53examining a fresh mango shoot.
1490. 2:03:53–2:03:55A second attendant follows.
1491. 2:03:55–2:04:00O mango blossom! Seeing you, like the breath of the spring month,
1492. 2:04:00–2:04:06tawny upon your green stem, I behold the season's auspicious first sight.
1493. 2:04:06–2:04:11Parabrida ca, my friend, why are you talking to yourself?
1494. 2:04:11–2:04:17My friend, the tender shoot of the mango intoxicates the cuckoo.
1495. 2:04:17–2:04:19Has spring arrived?
1496. 2:04:19–2:04:25Maddacaraka, now is the time for your songs filled with the nectar of love.
1497. 2:04:25–2:04:30My friend, I shall stand on tiptoe and worship the God of love.
1498. 2:04:30–2:04:35Support me, if I receive half the merit of the worship.
1499. 2:04:35–2:04:37That need not be said.
1500. 2:04:37–2:04:40My friend, we are one soul in two bodies.
1501. 2:04:40–2:04:44Ah, the mango cluster has not yet opened.
1502. 2:04:44–2:04:48Yet fragrance rises the moment its stem is broken.
1503. 2:04:48–2:04:51Victory to the fish-bannered God of Love.
1504. 2:04:51–2:04:55Oh mango shoot, I offer you to the bow-bearing God of Love.
1505. 2:04:55–2:04:59Become an unfailing arrow whose targets are young women.
1506. 2:04:59–2:05:01The chamberlain enters angrily.
1507. 2:05:01–2:05:04Stop. Foolish girl.
1508. 2:05:04–2:05:08His majesty has expressly forbidden the spring festival.
1509. 2:05:08–2:05:11and you are plucking flowers.
1510. 2:05:11–2:05:16Forgive us, Master. We heard nothing of this.
1511. 2:05:16–2:05:21HMPH. How could you fail to hear His Majesty's command
1512. 2:05:21–2:05:26when even the trees of spring and the creatures dwelling in them obey it?
1513. 2:05:26–2:05:32For the mango blossom is mature, yet releases no pollen.
1514. 2:05:32–2:05:35The Rajamala is ready to bud.
1515. 2:05:35–2:05:43Yet does not open. Though winter has passed, the male cuckoo's song remains caught in his throat.
1516. 2:05:43–2:05:50I fear that even the startled God of Love has returned to his quiver an arrow half drawn out.
1517. 2:05:50–2:05:55There can be no doubt. The Royal Sages' authority is great.
1518. 2:05:55–2:06:03Master, the king's brother-in-law, Mithravasu, removed us for several days from his majesty's
1519. 2:06:03–2:06:06service and assigned us to decorate the pavilion.
1520. 2:06:06–2:06:11Opposite, that is why we knew nothing of the order.
1521. 2:06:11–2:06:15Very well, but do not do it again.
1522. 2:06:15–2:06:17Master, we are curious.
1523. 2:06:17–2:06:23If it is proper for us to know, please tell us why his majesty has forbidden the full
1524. 2:06:23–2:06:26Moon Festival of Spring.
1525. 2:06:26–2:06:29Kings delight in festivals.
1526. 2:06:29–2:06:33There must be a grave reason behind this.
1527. 2:06:33–2:06:35Everyone knows the matter.
1528. 2:06:35–2:06:37Why should I not tell you?
1529. 2:06:37–2:06:43Has news of the disgrace caused by the rejection of Shakuntala reached your ears?
1530. 2:06:43–2:06:47Master, we have heard only as far as the finding of the Ring by the king's brother
1531. 2:06:47–2:06:50in law.
1532. 2:06:50–2:06:53Then little remains to be told.
1533. 2:06:53–2:06:58The moment his majesty saw the ring, his memory returned.
1534. 2:06:58–2:06:59It is true.
1535. 2:06:59–2:07:06I secretly married Lady Shakhantala and, in delusion, rejected her.
1536. 2:07:06–2:07:09Since then he has been filled with remorse.
1537. 2:07:09–2:07:10How?
1538. 2:07:10–2:07:13He loathes pleasure and luxury.
1539. 2:07:13–2:07:17His subjects can no longer approach him freely each day.
1540. 2:07:17–2:07:23All night he tosses upon his bed, turning from one side to the other.
1541. 2:07:23–2:07:29Even when courtesy makes him speak gently to the women of the inner apartments, he confuses
1542. 2:07:29–2:07:34their names and remains ashamed for a long time.
1543. 2:07:34–2:07:36I am glad to hear this.
1544. 2:07:36–2:07:41The festival was prohibited because of the king's grief.
1545. 2:07:41–2:07:43That seems right.
1546. 2:07:43–2:07:44Come.
1547. 2:07:44–2:07:46Come, sir.
1548. 2:07:46–2:07:49His Majesty is approaching this way.
1549. 2:07:49–2:07:51Attend to your work.
1550. 2:07:51–2:07:57The King enters with the Clown and Doorkeeper, dressed in a manner befitting his remorse.
1551. 2:07:57–2:07:59Ah!
1552. 2:07:59–2:08:04A man of extraordinary beauty appears noble in every condition.
1553. 2:08:04–2:08:11Though wasted by separation from Shakuntala, his Majesty remains splendid to behold.
1554. 2:08:11–2:08:18He has abandoned ostentatious ornaments, and wears only a loose golden bracelet upon his
1555. 2:08:18–2:08:20left forearm.
1556. 2:08:20–2:08:26His lips are reddened by sighs, and his eyes are wary from anxious wakefulness.
1557. 2:08:26–2:08:32Yet his inborn radiance keeps him from appearing diminished, like a great jewel polished by
1558. 2:08:32–2:08:34friction.
1559. 2:08:34–2:08:38It is only right that Shakuntala still longs for him.
1560. 2:08:38–2:08:45after he rejected and humiliated her. This unfortunate heart slept before, though
1561. 2:08:45–2:08:54my doe-eyed beloved tried to awaken it. Now it is awake, only to suffer the pain of remorse.
1562. 2:08:54–2:09:01The poor girl's fate is much the same. Another attack of the Chakintala sickness.
1563. 2:09:01–2:09:04I do not know how it can be cured.
1564. 2:09:04–2:09:07Victory to Your Majesty.
1565. 2:09:07–2:09:08Mighty King.
1566. 2:09:08–2:09:15The royal pleasure garden has been inspected, so that you may walk there whenever you wish.
1567. 2:09:15–2:09:17Vasumati.
1568. 2:09:17–2:09:24Tell Minister Pishuna in my name that, because of prolonged sleeplessness, I cannot sit in
1569. 2:09:24–2:09:26the court of justice today.
1570. 2:09:26–2:09:32Let him examine today's civil cases and send me a written report.
1571. 2:09:32–2:09:34As your majesty commands.
1572. 2:09:34–2:09:40Parvatiana, you too may go to your duties.
1573. 2:09:40–2:09:41Very well.
1574. 2:09:41–2:09:43We have driven the flies away.
1575. 2:09:43–2:09:45Now that winter is over.
1576. 2:09:45–2:09:49We can rest undisturbed in this delightful garden.
1577. 2:09:49–2:09:50My friend.
1578. 2:09:50–2:09:56The proverb, misfortune strikes where one is weakest, is never false.
1579. 2:09:56–2:10:03See! The royal signet has restored my memory, and I am lamenting in remorse for the beloved
1580. 2:10:03–2:10:09I rejected without cause. At this very moment the delight of fragrant spring has come and
1581. 2:10:09–2:10:11stands before me.
1582. 2:10:11–2:10:18Wait a moment! I shall strike this mango-shaped god of love with my staff.
1583. 2:10:18–2:10:25Leave it! I have already seen the power of your brahminical splendor. My friend, let
1584. 2:10:25–2:10:31Let us sit here and divert our eyes by looking at these vines, which in some ways resemble
1585. 2:10:31–2:10:33my beloved.
1586. 2:10:33–2:10:38But you have only just told the painter Medavini, I shall remain for a while in the Medavi vine
1587. 2:10:38–2:10:40pavilion.
1588. 2:10:40–2:10:46Bring the portrait of Lady Shakhintala that I painted with my own hand upon the canvas.
1589. 2:10:46–2:10:48Such is the state of my heart.
1590. 2:10:48–2:10:51Show me the way to the Medavi pavilion.
1591. 2:10:51–2:10:54Come, your majesty.
1592. 2:10:54–2:11:01This Madhavi pavilion, furnished with a jeweled stone seat, silently welcomes my dear friend.
1593. 2:11:01–2:11:04Let us enter, your majesty, sit.
1594. 2:11:04–2:11:06My friend Madhavia.
1595. 2:11:06–2:11:09Now everything has returned to me.
1596. 2:11:09–2:11:13I told you what happened when I first saw Shakuntala.
1597. 2:11:13–2:11:17But when I rejected her, you were not beside me.
1598. 2:11:17–2:11:22And before that, you never mentioned her name in conversation.
1599. 2:11:22–2:11:24Surely you too.
1600. 2:11:24–2:11:29Like me, had forgotten all that past between us.
1601. 2:11:29–2:11:30I had not forgotten.
1602. 2:11:30–2:11:33On the contrary, you told me the whole story.
1603. 2:11:33–2:11:36But at the end you said it was not true.
1604. 2:11:36–2:11:39Merely a joke, dull-witted as a lump of clay.
1605. 2:11:39–2:11:42And afraid the secret might be revealed.
1606. 2:11:42–2:11:44I took your words as truth.
1607. 2:11:44–2:11:47Besides, fate is always powerful.
1608. 2:11:47–2:11:49That is true.
1609. 2:11:49–2:11:52My friend, help me.
1610. 2:11:52–2:11:53Help me.
1611. 2:11:53–2:11:55How has it come to this?
1612. 2:11:55–2:11:59How can the courage of a noble man be shaken by sorrow?
1613. 2:11:59–2:12:03A mountain remains unmoved even by storm winds.
1614. 2:12:03–2:12:11My friend, the moment I remember my beloved's helpless terror, I become utterly distraught.
1615. 2:12:11–2:12:17She was driven away from me and tried to follow her own people.
1616. 2:12:17–2:12:25Then her father's disciple, a father to her in his stead, commanded sternly, stay, and
1617. 2:12:25–2:12:28with eyes blurred by streaming tears.
1618. 2:12:28–2:12:31She looked once more at cruel me.
1619. 2:12:31–2:12:35All this pierces me like arrows steeped in poison.
1620. 2:12:35–2:12:38Ah, what suffering!
1621. 2:12:38–2:12:42Seeing his pain brings me satisfaction.
1622. 2:12:42–2:12:44Your Majesty, I have a thought.
1623. 2:12:44–2:12:48From being who travels through the sky must have carried the lady away.
1624. 2:12:48–2:12:52Who but a deity could have done it?
1625. 2:12:52–2:12:55I was told that Manaka is your friend's mother.
1626. 2:12:55–2:13:00My heart believes that her companions took Shakuntala away.
1627. 2:13:00–2:13:02Ah!
1628. 2:13:02–2:13:08His delusion was astonishing, but his understanding has not awakened fully even now.
1629. 2:13:08–2:13:13If so, you will certainly be reunited with the lady in the end.
1630. 2:13:13–2:13:19Her parents cannot bear to see their daughter separated from her husband for very long.
1631. 2:13:19–2:13:29My friend, was she a dream? An illusion? A delusion? Or the fruit of hard-won merit?
1632. 2:13:29–2:13:34She has gone beyond the reach of memory and left before my longing an immeasurable abyss.
1633. 2:13:34–2:13:41Do not say so. The ring itself is proof. Surely a wondrous reunion decreed by fate
1634. 2:13:41–2:13:44begins in justice way.
1635. 2:13:44–2:13:46Ah!
1636. 2:13:46–2:13:48This unfortunate thing!
1637. 2:13:48–2:13:50Fallen from an inaccessible place!
1638. 2:13:50–2:13:52Oh ring!
1639. 2:13:52–2:13:56The reward of your merit has proved as worthless as mine!
1640. 2:13:56–2:13:59You found a place upon her finger!
1641. 2:13:59–2:14:01Lovely with its crimson nail!
1642. 2:14:01–2:14:04Yet you fell from it!
1643. 2:14:04–2:14:05My friend!
1644. 2:14:05–2:14:07You are far away!
1645. 2:14:07–2:14:12I alone am enjoying this delight that is so sweet to hear.
1646. 2:14:12–2:14:17My friend, how did you come to place this ring upon the lady's hand?
1647. 2:14:17–2:14:25Listen. As I was departing from the Hermitage for my city, my beloved, her eyes full of
1648. 2:14:25–2:14:35tears asked me, my lord, how many days will you remember me? And then, and then,
1649. 2:14:35–2:14:41Then I placed this royal signet upon her finger and said, each day, count one letter of my
1650. 2:14:41–2:14:42name.
1651. 2:14:42–2:14:51Beloved, when you reach the final letter, someone will come, show you the way, and conduct you
1652. 2:14:51–2:14:53to the inner palace.
1653. 2:14:53–2:14:58And then, in my delusion, I committed such a terrible offence.
1654. 2:14:58–2:15:02Fate gave you a charming device.
1655. 2:15:02–2:15:09And how did this ring, like a fish hook, reach the mouth of that unfortunate rohu fish?
1656. 2:15:09–2:15:13Your friend must have dropped it into the current of the Ganges while bowing to the waters
1657. 2:15:13–2:15:17at Shachi's sacred pool.
1658. 2:15:17–2:15:19Let me reproach it.
1659. 2:15:19–2:15:25How could you leave that hand with its tender, curved fingers and sink into the water?
1660. 2:15:25–2:15:26But no.
1661. 2:15:26–2:15:31A lifeless object understands neither virtue nor fault.
1662. 2:15:31–2:15:34And how could I reject my beloved?
1663. 2:15:34–2:15:39The beginning and end of this story contradict one another.
1664. 2:15:39–2:15:43When shall I see again the beloved whom I rejected without cause?
1665. 2:15:43–2:15:47The painter enters carrying a canvas.
1666. 2:15:47–2:15:49His Majesty is here.
1667. 2:15:49–2:15:51I shall approach him.
1668. 2:15:51–2:15:53Victory to your Majesty.
1669. 2:15:53–2:15:56I have brought the lady's portrait.
1670. 2:15:56–2:15:58Ah, ah, ah.
1671. 2:15:58–2:16:00Beauty alive before us.
1672. 2:16:00–2:16:09Well done, my friend. Well done. What more can I say? It seems a soul has entered the picture. I feel moved to speak to it.
1673. 2:16:09–2:16:19Ah! How skillful is the brush of his companion. The painter. My friend appears to be standing before me.
1674. 2:16:19–2:16:24Before, I rejected my beloved when she stood before me.
1675. 2:16:24–2:16:28Now I honor her when she is only a painted image,
1676. 2:16:28–2:16:32ignoring the river swollen with water upon my path.
1677. 2:16:32–2:16:37Ah, I now thirst for a mirage.
1678. 2:16:37–2:16:41He has himself admitted everything I wished to say.
1679. 2:16:41–2:16:46I see three women. All are beautiful. Which one is Sharkintala?
1680. 2:16:46–2:16:53The poor man knows very well how to deceive himself. My friend is not truly here.
1681. 2:16:53–2:16:56Which one do you think she is?
1682. 2:16:56–2:17:02I think this is Lady Shokuntala. The woman standing wearily against the Ashoka vine,
1683. 2:17:02–2:17:07drops of perspiration upon her face. Flowers falling from her loosened hair.
1684. 2:17:07–2:17:12One vine like arm drooping like a branch. The girdle of her garment undone.
1685. 2:17:12–2:17:15The other two are her friends.
1686. 2:17:15–2:17:20You are perceptive. The clear marks of my love are in this picture.
1687. 2:17:20–2:17:25Near the lines one can see the stain of my damp fingers.
1688. 2:17:25–2:17:30And the pigment of the brush has spread where a tear fell from my cheek.
1689. 2:17:30–2:17:37Medavini. The pleasure grove is only half painted. Go and bring the brushes.
1690. 2:17:37–2:17:41Noble Medavia, hold the canvas until I return.
1691. 2:17:41–2:17:44What else remains to be painted here?
1692. 2:17:44–2:17:49Surely he wishes to paint all the places dear to my beloved friend.
1693. 2:17:49–2:17:55Madavia! Listen! I shall paint the Malini River
1694. 2:17:55–2:17:59with pairs of wild geese in rows upon its sandy bank,
1695. 2:17:59–2:18:02the valley at the foot of the sacred Himalaya,
1696. 2:18:02–2:18:07father of Gauri, where yak cows rest,
1697. 2:18:07–2:18:10and beneath a tree hung with bark garments,
1698. 2:18:10–2:18:14A doe rubbing her left eye against the antler of a stag.
1699. 2:18:14–2:18:19I suppose he will fill the rest of the picture with the shaggy beards of hermits.
1700. 2:18:20–2:18:27Madavia, one more thing. I forgot to paint an ornament beloved by Shakuntala.
1701. 2:18:27–2:18:29What was it like?
1702. 2:18:29–2:18:34Something suited to a forest dweller and to her tenderness.
1703. 2:18:34–2:18:39My friend, I have not painted the Cherisha flower at her ear.
1704. 2:18:39–2:18:44It's stem tucked behind it and its filaments trailing to her cheek.
1705. 2:18:44–2:18:47Nor the necklace of lotus fibers.
1706. 2:18:47–2:18:49Soft as autumn moonbeams.
1707. 2:18:49–2:18:52Resting between her breasts.
1708. 2:18:52–2:18:55Why does the lady look so frightened now?
1709. 2:18:55–2:18:59Covering her face with fingers lovely as red lotuses?
1710. 2:18:59–2:19:01Oh, oh, oh!
1711. 2:19:01–2:19:03This slave born plunderer of flowers.
1712. 2:19:03–2:19:08A bee is hungry for the lady's lotus face.
1713. 2:19:08–2:19:12Go and drive away the insolent intruder.
1714. 2:19:12–2:19:17You, the chastiser of the wicked, are the one who can remove him.
1715. 2:19:17–2:19:18Very well.
1716. 2:19:18–2:19:23Bee, you are a welcome guest to every flowering vine.
1717. 2:19:23–2:19:26Why tire yourself flying about here?
1718. 2:19:26–2:19:32Your loving female bee, settled within a flower, waits for you.
1719. 2:19:32–2:19:37So thirsty. She will not drink nectar without you.
1720. 2:19:37–2:19:40How gracefully he dismisses it.
1721. 2:19:40–2:19:45Creatures of this kind become more stubborn when chased away.
1722. 2:19:45–2:19:50You are right. Since you will not obey my command. Hear this now.
1723. 2:19:50–2:19:55O B. If you bite my beloved's Bimba red lower lip.
1724. 2:19:55–2:19:58Lovely as the virgin bud of a young tree.
1725. 2:19:58–2:20:05Nectar I once drank gently in the festival of love, then I shall imprison you inside a lotus.
1726. 2:20:06–2:20:13How could it fail to fear such a harsh punishment? He has truly gone completely mad. By keeping company
1727. 2:20:13–2:20:19with him, I too have been infected. Count me among those awakened to madness now.
1728. 2:20:20–2:20:27Beloved, is it still there? Ah, love can master even a steadfast man.
1729. 2:20:28–2:20:30It is a picture.
1730. 2:20:30–2:20:37My friend, why are you so cruel to me? With my heart wholly absorbed,
1731. 2:20:37–2:20:41I was enjoying the sight of her as though she stood before me.
1732. 2:20:41–2:20:45You awakened memory and turned her back into a picture.
1733. 2:20:45–2:20:53My friend, I have seen with my own eyes that he remembers the dishonour he did you by rejecting you.
1734. 2:20:53–2:21:00Your Majesty, your box of pigments has fallen into the hands of Queen Kulaprabha's attendants.
1735. 2:21:00–2:21:04Very well. I have no desire to paint now.
1736. 2:21:05–2:21:08He shows Kulaprabha great respect.
1737. 2:21:08–2:21:10But that matters little.
1738. 2:21:10–2:21:14When the many stringed, Vipanchi is unavailable.
1739. 2:21:14–2:21:17Even a one-stringed Lute seems dear.
1740. 2:21:18–2:21:19My friend.
1741. 2:21:19–2:21:20See.
1742. 2:21:20–2:21:23Why must I endure this pain without end?
1743. 2:21:23–2:21:27Wakefulness prevents me from meeting her even in dreams,
1744. 2:21:27–2:21:31and tears prevent me from seeing her even in a picture.
1745. 2:21:31–2:21:38Your Majesty, Pingalika is coming with her companions to snatch and tear the portrait.
1746. 2:21:38–2:21:41Her hopes are ruined now.
1747. 2:21:41–2:21:46Ah! Victory to the Queen! Victory!
1748. 2:21:46–2:21:53Alas, Pingalika, the Tigris of the Inner Palace, has followed Medavini's tracks like a doe
1749. 2:21:53–2:21:57and is about to spring upon us.
1750. 2:21:57–2:22:01My friend, protect this portrait of my beloved.
1751. 2:22:01–2:22:05In other words, you are telling me to protect myself.
1752. 2:22:05–2:22:12My friend, even your portrait has been removed from this man who behaves like an enemy towards
1753. 2:22:12–2:22:13you.
1754. 2:22:13–2:22:17I shall hide it where no one but the pigeons can see it."
1755. 2:22:17–2:22:20Victory to Your Majesty
1756. 2:22:20–2:22:24Vasumati did the queen not come.
1757. 2:22:24–2:22:30Your Majesty, when she saw me bringing the letter, she turned back.
1758. 2:22:30–2:22:35She understands the claims of time and does not obstruct affairs of state.
1759. 2:22:35–2:22:42Your Majesty, the minister says that because the work is so great, he has been able
1760. 2:22:42–2:22:49to examine only one citizen's case. May your Majesty consider it.
1761. 2:22:49–2:22:55Medivini, read it. As your Majesty commands, let His Majesty know
1762. 2:22:55–2:23:02that Don of Riddie, the sea merchant whose name proved true, has died in a shipwreck.
1763. 2:23:02–2:23:09He has no children. His estate amounts to many thousands of millions and will now pass
1764. 2:23:09–2:23:16into the royal treasury. Having heard this, let His Majesty pronounce judgment.
1765. 2:23:16–2:23:23To have no child is a great sorrow. Vasumati. He was wealthy and therefore must have had
1766. 2:23:23–2:23:29several wives. Find out whether any one of them is pregnant.
1767. 2:23:29–2:23:36Your Majesty. It has just been learned that the daughter of the guildmaster, Kashava,
1768. 2:23:36–2:23:42None of his wives has undergone the conception right for the birth of a son.
1769. 2:23:42–2:23:46Then the unborn child is heir to the father's estate.
1770. 2:23:46–2:23:50Go and tell the honorable Pishuna so.
1771. 2:23:50–2:23:53As your majesty commands.
1772. 2:23:53–2:23:55Return for a moment.
1773. 2:23:55–2:23:57I am here.
1774. 2:23:57–2:23:59Tell him this as well.
1775. 2:23:59–2:24:04What does it matter whether the man has a child or not?
1776. 2:24:04–2:24:10that whenever any beloved relative of one of my subjects dies, provided the deceased was
1777. 2:24:10–2:24:16free from sin, Dushyanta will take that relative's place.
1778. 2:24:16–2:24:20It shall certainly be proclaimed in that way.
1779. 2:24:20–2:24:21Your Majesty.
1780. 2:24:21–2:24:26As people rejoice when clouds thunder at the proper season.
1781. 2:24:26–2:24:30So your subjects have rejoiced at your proclamation.
1782. 2:24:30–2:24:36When the last man of a family whose lineage has been broken dies without support.
1783. 2:24:36–2:24:40His wealth passes to another in just this way.
1784. 2:24:40–2:24:46After my death, the glory of Puru's line will suffer the same fate.
1785. 2:24:46–2:24:49May that fear never come true.
1786. 2:24:49–2:24:56Shame upon me, who condemned and rejected the blessing bestowed by destiny.
1787. 2:24:56–2:25:00Surely he is blaming himself because of my friend.
1788. 2:25:00–2:25:07I cast away my lawful wife, who was to be the foundation of my line, in whom my very self
1789. 2:25:07–2:25:15was planted, who, like earth sown at the proper season, was destined to bring forth a mighty
1790. 2:25:15–2:25:17fruit."
1791. 2:25:17–2:25:20What was the minister's purpose in sending this letter?
1792. 2:25:20–2:25:24Which saddened his majesty the moment he saw it?
1793. 2:25:24–2:25:28But no, he never acts without reflection.
1794. 2:25:28–2:25:52Ah! Dushyanta has placed his ancestors in peril. After me! Alas! Who in my lineage will offer the scripturally ordained rice cakes and water? Surely my ancestors, instead of water, are drinking my pure tears! For I, childless, am incomplete.
1795. 2:25:52–2:26:00This is merely a natural error. His Majesty, standing at the height of youth, will father
1796. 2:26:00–2:26:06a worthy son by another queen and discharge his debt to his ancestors. He cannot hear my
1797. 2:26:06–2:26:13words. Or rather, only the proper medicine can cure a disease.
1798. 2:26:13–2:26:22This line of puru, pure from its beginning, is ending because of me, unworthy and childless,
1799. 2:26:22–2:26:27as the sacred Sarasvati river vanishes into a barren desert.
1800. 2:26:27–2:26:31Awake, your Majesty! Awake!
1801. 2:26:31–2:26:39I shall end his suffering at once. But no! The great gods have ordained matters in this way.
1802. 2:26:39–2:26:47I cannot intervene without permission. Very well! The gods, eager for their share of the sacrifice,
1803. 2:26:47–2:26:51will arrange the royal sage's reunion with his wife.
1804. 2:26:51–2:26:54I shall see how they accomplish it.
1805. 2:26:54–2:26:59For now, I shall carry this news and comfort my beloved friend."
1806. 2:26:59–2:27:04Disaster. Disaster. Help. Disaster.
1807. 2:27:04–2:27:09Ah! That sounds like Madhavia's voice in distress.
1808. 2:27:09–2:27:14The poor man must have fallen into Lady Pingalaka's jaws.
1809. 2:27:14–2:27:21Vasumati, go and rebuke the queen in my name for failing to control her attendance.
1810. 2:27:21–2:27:29As commanded, the Brahmin's voice is trembling as though he were truly terrified. Who is there?
1811. 2:27:29–2:27:36Command me, your Majesty. Why is that boy Madhavya screaming?
1812. 2:27:36–2:27:40Your Majesty, I shall go and see.
1813. 2:27:40–2:27:45Parvatiana, is this a matter of mortal danger?
1814. 2:27:45–2:27:48No, Your Majesty.
1815. 2:27:48–2:27:50Then why are you frightened?
1816. 2:27:50–2:27:57Yet, the trembling that formerly came only from old age now shakes your whole body violently,
1817. 2:27:57–2:28:00like a peepal tree in the wind.
1818. 2:28:00–2:28:04Then, mighty king, save your friend.
1819. 2:28:04–2:28:11friend. From whom must I save him? From dreadful danger.
1820. 2:28:11–2:28:21Ah, say something intelligible. Your Majesty, that royal palace called Cloud Kissing.
1821. 2:28:21–2:28:29What is happening there? From its highest pinnacle, which the tame Peacock reaches only after resting
1822. 2:28:29–2:28:34many times. Some invisible demon has carried away your friend.
1823. 2:28:34–2:28:43Impossible. Demons have entered my very house. Royal power is surrounded by countless reversals.
1824. 2:28:43–2:28:50Day by day. One cannot even discover one's own unseen failures. Who has the power to
1825. 2:28:50–2:28:54know completely which path each subject is following?
1826. 2:28:54–2:28:57Run. Run.
1827. 2:28:57–2:29:02My friend, do not be afraid. Do not be afraid.
1828. 2:29:02–2:29:10How can I not be afraid? Someone is squeezing my neck from behind and trying to crush me like sugarcane.
1829. 2:29:10–2:29:21My bow. My bow. A YAVANA woman enters carrying the bow. YAVANA woman. Victory to your majesty.
1830. 2:29:21–2:29:24Here are your bow and arm guard.
1831. 2:29:24–2:29:30I shall seize and kill you as a tiger seizes its prey. Thirsting to drink the fresh blood
1832. 2:29:30–2:29:37from your neck. Let Dushyanta, who lifts his bow to remove the fears of the afflicted, protect
1833. 2:29:37–2:29:38you now."
1834. 2:29:38–2:29:47Is he mocking me? Stand still. Stand still. Disgrace to your race. You shall not escape
1835. 2:29:47–2:29:52now. Parva Tyana, show me the staircase.
1836. 2:29:52–2:29:59This way, this way, your majesty. But there is no one here.
1837. 2:29:59–2:30:07Hurry, I can see you, but you cannot see me. Like a mouse in a cat's jaws. I have lost all hope of life.
1838. 2:30:07–2:30:15Villain. Proud of your invisibility. My arrow will see you. Stand still.
1839. 2:30:15–2:30:24Do not imagine yourself safe, because you hold my friend. I am setting this arrow to the bow for you. It will kill you.
1840. 2:30:25–2:30:35Your Majesty. Indra has appointed the demons as your targets. Draw your bow against them. A noble man's compassionate.
1841. 2:30:35–2:30:39Gentle glance falls upon a friend. Not a merciless arrow.
1842. 2:30:40–2:30:42Ah, Metali.
1843. 2:30:42–2:30:46Welcome, charioteer of the king of gods.
1844. 2:30:46–2:30:49Ah, this demon nearly killed me.
1845. 2:30:49–2:30:54Your Majesty, hear why Indra has sent me to you.
1846. 2:30:54–2:30:57I am listening attentively.
1847. 2:30:57–2:31:04There is an invincible demon king named Durjaya, a descendant of Kalanemi.
1848. 2:31:04–2:31:08I have already heard of him from Narada.
1849. 2:31:08–2:31:12It is said that your friend Indra cannot kill him.
1850. 2:31:12–2:31:16It is said that you can destroy him at the forefront of battle.
1851. 2:31:16–2:31:21The moon dispels the darkness of night that the sun cannot remove.
1852. 2:31:21–2:31:28Therefore take up your bow. Mount Indra's chariot. And depart for victory.
1853. 2:31:28–2:31:34I am blessed by Indra's honor. But why did you mistreat Madaviya so?
1854. 2:31:34–2:31:37I shall tell you. I saw that.
1855. 2:31:37–2:31:42For some reason, your majesty was sunk in remorse.
1856. 2:31:42–2:31:45I acted so to awaken your anger.
1857. 2:31:45–2:31:49For, fire blazes up when its fuel is stirred.
1858. 2:31:49–2:31:55A threatened serpent spreads its hood, and a man often recovers his courage when he is
1859. 2:31:55–2:31:57provoked.
1860. 2:31:57–2:31:59My friend Medavia.
1861. 2:31:59–2:32:03The command of the King of Gods cannot be refused.
1862. 2:32:03–2:32:09Tell Minister Pishuna what has happened here and give him this message in my name.
1863. 2:32:09–2:32:14For now, let your keen intelligence alone protect the people.
1864. 2:32:14–2:32:18This strong bow has been assigned to another task.
1865. 2:32:18–2:32:21As your majesty commands.
1866. 2:32:21–2:32:23This way, your majesty.
1867. 2:32:23–2:32:25All move off an exit.
1868. 2:32:25–2:32:30Thus ends Act 6.
1869. 2:32:30–2:32:34A celestial dancer enters.
1870. 2:32:34–2:32:39My teacher Narada has told me that at this very time the royal sage Dushyanta has risen
1871. 2:32:39–2:32:41above K.
1872. 2:32:41–2:32:48Mortal world and gone, at Lord Indra's command, to kill a demon, after I bow then sang his
1873. 2:32:48–2:32:49praises.
1874. 2:32:49–2:32:54My teacher instructed me to present a dancer for spacious blessing before the learned
1875. 2:32:54–2:32:55audience.
1876. 2:32:55–2:33:01Go, find another dancer, and come to the dancing pavilion.
1877. 2:33:01–2:33:03I am therefore looking for a dancer now.
1878. 2:33:03–2:33:06Who is coming towards me?
1879. 2:33:06–2:33:11As though she has just received some ornament and is at once excited and satisfied?
1880. 2:33:11–2:33:12Why?
1881. 2:33:12–2:33:15It is my dear friend Chhutamangiri.
1882. 2:33:15–2:33:16Good!
1883. 2:33:16–2:33:19I shall take her to our teacher.
1884. 2:33:19–2:33:22A second dancer enters in the manner described.
1885. 2:33:22–2:33:24Ah!
1886. 2:33:24–2:33:27How great is the power of the royal sage Dushinta!
1887. 2:33:27–2:33:28Oh!
1888. 2:33:28–2:33:31The mighty demon Durjaya has been killed.
1889. 2:33:31–2:33:38To speak precisely, accompanied only by his chariotier, Dushyanta poured down countless
1890. 2:33:38–2:33:43thousands of weapons and destroyed the powerful Durjaya in a single moment.
1891. 2:33:43–2:33:49Chhutamangiri, my friend, you seem love-struck.
1892. 2:33:49–2:33:55Are you Parijitamangiri, my friend, I shall tell you everything, but first say where you
1893. 2:33:55–2:33:57are going.
1894. 2:33:57–2:34:03My friend, I shall be brief. Our teacher has commanded a festive performance today to celebrate
1895. 2:34:03–2:34:11the royal sage Dushyentas. Victory over the demon, we are both to go and see him. There
1896. 2:34:11–2:34:17must be some reason for this. But if the king is returning to the mortal world, for whom
1897. 2:34:17–2:34:24shall we perform? My friend, has he fulfilled Mahendra's wish and taken his leave, or
1898. 2:34:24–2:34:26has something else occurred?
1899. 2:34:26–2:34:35Listen, my friend, this very morning he departs for the earth, carrying with him, as a boon,
1900. 2:34:35–2:34:40the remaining life of Durjaya, and the enamoured hearts of the celestial women.
1901. 2:34:40–2:34:44That is why I am at once delighted and agitated.
1902. 2:34:44–2:34:48My friend, you have brought good news.
1903. 2:34:48–2:34:52Our teacher ordered us to perform before the royal sage of Purus line.
1904. 2:34:52–2:34:57Come, let us compose and sing a song here.
1905. 2:34:57–2:35:04As you wish, we can dance together, whether to my song or to your recitation.
1906. 2:35:04–2:35:10We shall do so, my friend, the spring season turns one be away from rightful pleasure and
1907. 2:35:10–2:35:13leads him towards improper conduct.
1908. 2:35:13–2:35:19It fills another with love, and saddens yet another with the earth's crimson beauty.
1909. 2:35:19–2:35:24of the prologue, the king and Matali enter in an aerial chariot.
1910. 2:35:24–2:35:32Matali. Although I merely obeyed Indra's command, the lofty honor he has shown me makes me feel
1911. 2:35:32–2:35:34unworthy.
1912. 2:35:34–2:35:41Your Majesty, neither of you acknowledges the other's debt. How so? Having given Indra such
1913. 2:35:41–2:35:48aid, you see his high honor and consider your deed insignificant. While he considers the
1914. 2:35:48–2:35:53the honor he bestowed unequal to your great achievement.
1915. 2:35:53–2:36:01It is not so. The honor shown me at my departure far exceeded my desire. I was seated upon half
1916. 2:36:01–2:36:08his throne before the gods. Then Indra looked smilingly at Jayanta standing beside him.
1917. 2:36:08–2:36:13Who inwardly longed for that distinction? And placed upon me a garland of heavenly
1918. 2:36:13–2:36:20mandara flowers that had brushed his breast. Anointed with yellow sandalwood.
1919. 2:36:20–2:36:24Why should such honour from the king of gods not befit you?
1920. 2:36:24–2:36:32See, for Indra, who desires peace. Two things have drawn out the thorns of heaven. The
1921. 2:36:32–2:36:40demons, your polished arrows, and, long ago, the claws of Nersimha.
1922. 2:36:40–2:36:42The greatness lies within Dra.
1923. 2:36:42–2:36:43See.
1924. 2:36:43–2:36:49Know that when a servant succeeds in a great undertaking, it is because a great master has
1925. 2:36:49–2:36:52bestowed honor upon him.
1926. 2:36:52–2:36:58If the Thousand Raid's son had not placed Aruna at the front of his chariot, where
1927. 2:36:58–2:37:02would Aruna have found the power to destroy darkness?
1928. 2:37:02–2:37:04Those words are worthy of you.
1929. 2:37:04–2:37:06Your Majesty.
1930. 2:37:06–2:37:07Look here.
1931. 2:37:07–2:37:12The radiance of your fame has reached the roof of heaven.
1932. 2:37:12–2:37:17Considering the greatness of your deeds, the gods paint them upon the outer leaves of wish-fulfilling
1933. 2:37:17–2:37:24vines with cosmetic colors left over by celestial nymphs.
1934. 2:37:24–2:37:25Matali.
1935. 2:37:25–2:37:27Yesterday.
1936. 2:37:27–2:37:30In my eagerness to ascend and battle the demon.
1937. 2:37:30–2:37:34I paid no attention to the geography of heaven.
1938. 2:37:34–2:37:38Through what divine region are we traveling now?
1939. 2:37:38–2:37:41This is the region of the current bearing wind.
1940. 2:37:41–2:37:43Free from vapor.
1941. 2:37:43–2:37:50Sanctified by Vishnu's second stride, it supports the heavenly stream of the threefold Ganges
1942. 2:37:50–2:37:54and turns the constellations with rays.
1943. 2:37:54–2:37:57Radiating in a circle.
1944. 2:37:57–2:38:04That is why my inmost spirit and all my senses, within and without, or at peace, I believe
1945. 2:38:04–2:38:08Leave we have descended into the region of clouds.
1946. 2:38:08–2:38:10How did you know?
1947. 2:38:10–2:38:15Chautaka birds fly between the spokes of your chariot wheels.
1948. 2:38:15–2:38:19The horses are coloured by flashes of lightning.
1949. 2:38:19–2:38:21And the rims of the wheels are wet.
1950. 2:38:21–2:38:27These signs show that the chariot has passed over rain-bearing clouds.
1951. 2:38:27–2:38:31In a moment you will reach the realm you rule.
1952. 2:38:31–2:38:34Because we are descending at great speed.
1953. 2:38:34–2:38:37mortal world appears strange.
1954. 2:38:37–2:38:384.
1955. 2:38:38–2:38:42The earth seems to recede as the mountains rise.
1956. 2:38:42–2:38:50The screen of leaves lifts, revealing the trunks of trees, rivers that looked waterless,
1957. 2:38:50–2:38:55like thin lines, gain their full forms and become distinct.
1958. 2:38:55–2:38:56Look!
1959. 2:38:56–2:39:01It is as though someone had thrown the earth upward and brought it close to us.
1960. 2:39:01–2:39:05Ah, the beauty of the earth is incomparable.
1961. 2:39:05–2:39:09Matali, what mountain is this?
1962. 2:39:09–2:39:12Plunged into the eastern and western seas,
1963. 2:39:12–2:39:17gleaming as though it dripped gold like a wall of clouds at sunset.
1964. 2:39:17–2:39:20Your Majesty, this is Golden Peak,
1965. 2:39:20–2:39:26the mountain of the Kinaris and the finest place for ascetics to attain perfection.
1966. 2:39:26–2:39:37Hirpraja Patti, father of gods and demons, born from the self-existent Marichi, performs austerities with his wife.
1967. 2:39:37–2:39:46We should not neglect such an auspicious opportunity. Let us circle him and receive a vision of the Holy One.
1968. 2:39:46–2:39:50That is our foremost duty. We have landed.
1969. 2:39:50–2:39:59Matali, there was no sound from the wheel rims. No dust rose into view. Your chariot landed
1970. 2:39:59–2:40:06without unknowing it. Because it did not touch the earth. There was no jolt.
1971. 2:40:06–2:40:14Such is the difference between you and Indra. In which direction is Maricha's hermitage?
1972. 2:40:14–2:40:22There stands the sage, facing the sun, motionless as a pillar, half his body buried in an anthill,
1973. 2:40:22–2:40:28wearing a second sacred thread made from a serpent's cast skin, his throat bound by the
1974. 2:40:28–2:40:34noose of a withered vine, and the immense matted locks covering his shoulders filled
1975. 2:40:34–2:40:38with birds' nests.
1976. 2:40:38–2:40:40Homage to the Great Aesthetic
1977. 2:40:40–2:40:48We have now entered Prajapati's Sacred Grove, where Aditi tends the Mandara Tree.
1978. 2:40:48–2:40:49How wonderful!
1979. 2:40:49–2:40:57I feel as though immersed in a lake of nectar that grants greater repose than heaven itself.
1980. 2:40:57–2:40:58Descend.
1981. 2:40:58–2:40:59What now?
1982. 2:40:59–2:41:02The harnessed chariot will remain here.
1983. 2:41:02–2:41:05I too shall descend.
1984. 2:41:05–2:41:06This way.
1985. 2:41:06–2:41:07This way.
1986. 2:41:07–2:41:08Your Majesty.
1987. 2:41:08–2:41:10Your Majesty.
1988. 2:41:10–2:41:15behold the sacred grove of the perfected sages.
1989. 2:41:15–2:41:21Two things here fill me with wonder. Though they live in a forest of wish-fulfilling trees,
1990. 2:41:21–2:41:28they sustain life upon air alone. They bathe at twilight in sacred water filled with thousands
1991. 2:41:28–2:41:35of golden lotus leaves. They meditate in caves of jewels. They practice restraint
1992. 2:41:35–2:41:41to mid-celestial nymphs, those surrounded by everything for whose attainment other sages
1993. 2:41:41–2:41:47perform austerities. These sages still practice austerity.
1994. 2:41:47–2:41:55Great men have lofty aspirations. Elder Shaqalya, with what task is our teacher occupied? What
1995. 2:41:55–2:42:03do you say? Aditi has asked him about the virtues of a faithful wife, and he is explaining
1996. 2:42:03–2:42:07Therefore my request must await a proper moment.
1997. 2:42:07–2:42:11I shall inform Prajapati of your arrival.
1998. 2:42:11–2:42:15Until then, sit beneath this Ashoka tree.
1999. 2:42:15–2:42:17As you wish.
2000. 2:42:17–2:42:21There is no hope that my desire will be fulfilled.
2001. 2:42:21–2:42:24Oh arm, why do you throb in vain?
2002. 2:42:24–2:42:29Good fortune rejected once later becomes sorrow.
2003. 2:42:29–2:42:31No. Do not be wicked.
2004. 2:42:31–2:42:38This is no place for wickedness. Who is administering justice? Ah! A child in years but a grown man
2005. 2:42:38–2:42:46in courage. Whom two female ascetics are trying to restrain. Striking a lion cub with his hand.
2006. 2:42:46–2:42:54He is dragging it away. It's main scattered by his harsh grip. The cub. Only half finished
2007. 2:42:54–2:43:01way. It's main scattered by his harsh grip. The cub, only half finished drinking at its
2008. 2:43:01–2:43:08mother's breast, struggles against him. The boy enters doing as described, restrained
2009. 2:43:08–2:43:11by two female acetics.
2010. 2:43:11–2:43:18Open your mouth, lion. Open your mouth. I want to count your teeth.
2011. 2:43:18–2:43:23Wicked child, why do you torment an animal who is like a son to us?
2012. 2:43:23–2:43:32Your ferocity grows greater and greater. The sages rightly named you Sarvadamana. Subduer of all.
2013. 2:43:32–2:43:42Why does this child draw my heart as though he were my own son? Surely my childlessness has made me affectionate towards all children.
2014. 2:43:42–2:43:47If you do not release her cub, the lioness will spring upon you.
2015. 2:43:47–2:43:51Ah, I am terribly frightened.
2016. 2:43:51–2:43:58This child seems like the seed of mighty splendor, a spark of fire waiting only for fuel.
2017. 2:43:58–2:44:03Child, release the lion cub. We shall give you another toy.
2018. 2:44:03–2:44:07Where is it? Give it to me.
2019. 2:44:07–2:44:11What? His hand bears the marks of an emperor.
2020. 2:44:11–2:44:204. His hand stretched out to ask for the tempting object. Its fingers joined by delicate webs
2021. 2:44:20–2:44:26shines like a single lotus whose gaps between the petals are not yet clear, beginning to
2022. 2:44:26–2:44:29open in the redness of dawn.
2023. 2:44:29–2:44:36My friend, promises alone cannot restrain him. Go to our cottage. There is a brightly colored
2024. 2:44:36–2:44:42clay peacock belonging to the child sage mankanker. Bring him that toy.
2025. 2:44:42–2:44:49As you see. For now, I shall keep playing with this one.
2026. 2:44:49–2:44:55This obstinate child draws me to him. Blessed are those who take a son upon their lap, and
2027. 2:44:55–2:45:01are soiled by the dust of his body. Whose little teeth flower in causeless laughter. Whose
2028. 2:45:01–2:45:08His indistinct speech is exceedingly sweet, and who loves to rest in his father's arms?
2029. 2:45:08–2:45:14Very well. You will not obey me. Is there any boy of the Hermitage here?
2030. 2:45:14–2:45:20Noble sir, please come and free the suffering lion cub from this unruly child's grip.
2031. 2:45:20–2:45:23Which is so difficult to loosen.
2032. 2:45:23–2:45:27Certainly. Son of a great sage,
2033. 2:45:27–2:45:31Why do you perform an act unworthy of a hermitage?
2034. 2:45:31–2:45:37When your self-controlled father rejoices that living creatures seek his protection,
2035. 2:45:37–2:45:42why stain his glory as a young serpent pollutes a sandalwood tree?
2036. 2:45:42–2:45:45He is not the son of a sage.
2037. 2:45:45–2:45:52His conduct, suited to his appearance, seemed to declare his identity.
2038. 2:45:52–2:45:55Trusting the surroundings.
2039. 2:45:55–2:46:01I was mistaken. If touching the limbs of this child from another family gives me such joy,
2040. 2:46:02–2:46:06how much happiness must he give to the man from whose body he was born?
2041. 2:46:07–2:46:09A wonder. A wonder.
2042. 2:46:10–2:46:10What is it?
2043. 2:46:11–2:46:17I am astonished by the great resemblance between you. Although there is no relationship between
2044. 2:46:17–2:46:22you. And he is as easy with you as though you were someone long familiar.
2045. 2:46:22–2:46:27If he is not a sages son, what is his family?
2046. 2:46:27–2:46:30He is the descendant of Puru.
2047. 2:46:30–2:46:34What? He belongs to my own line.
2048. 2:46:34–2:46:38That is why she sees a resemblance to me.
2049. 2:46:38–2:46:43The descendants of Puru observe the final custom of their house.
2050. 2:46:43–2:46:46First, to protect the earth.
2051. 2:46:46–2:46:49They dwell in white plastered royal palaces.
2052. 2:46:49–2:46:58Later, living at the roots of trees, they devote themselves solely to ascetic vows, but immortal
2053. 2:46:58–2:47:01cannot come here by his own will.
2054. 2:47:01–2:47:08You are right, sir, but this child's mother is related to a celestial nymph, and therefore
2055. 2:47:08–2:47:15she gave birth to him here, in the sacred grove of the Father of the Gods.
2056. 2:47:15–2:47:20ground for suspicion has appeared. Of which royal sage is this lady the wife?
2057. 2:47:21–2:47:25Who would speak the name of a man who abandoned his lawful wife?
2058. 2:47:27–2:47:32Can this story concern me in particular? Should I ask the child's mother's name?
2059. 2:47:33–2:47:40No. It is improper to inquire about another man's wife. The second female ascetic
2060. 2:47:40–2:47:44The boy's mother, who is like, enters carrying a clay peacock.
2061. 2:47:44–2:47:48Sarvada Mana, look at this beautiful bird.
2062. 2:47:48–2:47:50Where is mother?
2063. 2:47:50–2:47:55His love for his mother confused him when he heard a similar word.
2064. 2:47:55–2:48:02Child, look at the Shakuntha, the bird. How beautiful this toy peacock is.
2065. 2:48:02–2:48:07Is his mother's name Shakuntala? But names may be alike.
2066. 2:48:07–2:48:11Mirage? This may end in bitter disappointment.
2067. 2:48:11–2:48:15Aunt, I like this beautiful peacock.
2068. 2:48:15–2:48:20Ah, the protective amulet is missing from his wrist.
2069. 2:48:20–2:48:26Do not be anxious. It must have fallen while he wrestled with the lion cub.
2070. 2:48:26–2:48:30Do not touch it. What has he picked it up?
2071. 2:48:30–2:48:32Why are you stopping me?
2072. 2:48:32–2:48:40Listen, sir, this is a powerful herb called aparajata given by Mareacher during the child's
2073. 2:48:40–2:48:41birth ceremony.
2074. 2:48:41–2:48:49If it falls upon the ground, no one except his mother, his father, or the child himself can
2075. 2:48:49–2:48:51lift it.
2076. 2:48:51–2:48:54What happens if someone else picks it up?
2077. 2:48:54–2:48:58It turns into a snake and bites the stranger.
2078. 2:48:58–2:49:02Have you yourselves seen this transformation?
2079. 2:49:02–2:49:09many times. Then, now that my hope has been fulfilled, why should I not rejoice?
2080. 2:49:09–2:49:17Samyata, thumb, let us carry this news to, Shakuntala, who has completed her religious
2081. 2:49:17–2:49:24observance. Thumb, let me go, I want to go to mother.
2082. 2:49:24–2:49:29Son, we shall go together and bring joy to your mother.
2083. 2:49:29–2:49:32My father is Dushyanta, not you.
2084. 2:49:33–2:49:36That very denial is my proof.
2085. 2:49:36–2:49:42S.H.A.K.U.N.T.A.L.A. enters, her hair bound in a single braid.
2086. 2:49:43–2:49:49I have heard that Sarvada Manas protective amulet remained in its natural form even though they
2087. 2:49:49–2:49:52condition for its transformation arose.
2088. 2:49:53–2:49:55Yet I cannot trust my fortune.
2089. 2:49:55–2:50:00Still, what Aksharmala told me makes it seem possible.
2090. 2:50:00–2:50:09Ah! It is Lady Shakuntala. Clothed in grey, her face made thin by religious observance.
2091. 2:50:09–2:50:19Her hair bound in a single braid. This woman of spotless character has endured the long austerity of separation from cruel me.
2092. 2:50:19–2:50:24He does not look unlike my husband. Then who is he?
2093. 2:50:24–2:50:30Touching with his hand and defiling my son. Who is protected by sacred spells?
2094. 2:50:30–2:50:34Mother, this stranger keeps calling me, Son.
2095. 2:50:34–2:50:40Beloved, the cruelty I showed you has now reached a happy end.
2096. 2:50:40–2:50:44I beg you to recognize me. Heart,
2097. 2:50:44–2:50:48take courage, take courage. Fate has shown mercy
2098. 2:50:48–2:50:52after casting me down and satisfying its anger.
2099. 2:50:52–2:50:55This is my husband.
2100. 2:50:55–2:50:57By good fortune.
2101. 2:50:57–2:50:59Lovely Faced One.
2102. 2:50:59–2:51:03Now that the bewildering darkness has lifted from memory,
2103. 2:51:03–2:51:05you stand before me.
2104. 2:51:05–2:51:11When an eclipse has ended, the moon and red rohenia reunited.
2105. 2:51:11–2:51:14Victory to my lord.
2106. 2:51:14–2:51:15Beloved.
2107. 2:51:15–2:51:19So the word, victory, is caught in your tears.
2108. 2:51:19–2:51:24I am victorious, for I can see your pale face.
2109. 2:51:24–2:51:25Its lips unadorned.
2110. 2:51:25–2:51:28Mother, who is he?
2111. 2:51:28–2:51:32Son, ask my food.
2112. 2:51:32–2:51:33Slender one.
2113. 2:51:33–2:51:37Let the pain of my rejection leave your heart.
2114. 2:51:37–2:51:40At that time I was lost in terrible delusion.
2115. 2:51:40–2:51:46A blind man brushes away even a garland upon his head, thinking it a snake.
2116. 2:51:46–2:51:52In deepest darkness, a man treats an auspicious thing in just this way.
2117. 2:51:52–2:51:54Rise, my lord!
2118. 2:51:54–2:52:02At that time some result of my former deeds, hostile to my happiness, must have been ripening.
2119. 2:52:02–2:52:07That is why, though compassionate by nature, you changed so greatly.
2120. 2:52:07–2:52:11But how did my lord's memory return?
2121. 2:52:11–2:52:15I shall tell you everything after removing the Thorn of Grief.
2122. 2:52:15–2:52:17Slender one.
2123. 2:52:17–2:52:18On that day.
2124. 2:52:18–2:52:23In my delusion I ignored the tears that troubled your lips.
2125. 2:52:23–2:52:28Now I shall wipe away these tears resting upon your trembling lashes and free myself from
2126. 2:52:28–2:52:30remorse.
2127. 2:52:30–2:52:31My lord.
2128. 2:52:31–2:52:34Ah, this is the drink.
2129. 2:52:34–2:52:40Yes, when it was miraculously recovered, it restored my memory.
2130. 2:52:40–2:52:49It could have fulfilled my desire in a moment. Yet when I needed it to convince my Lord, it was nowhere to be found.
2131. 2:52:49–2:52:54Then let the vine receive its flower and proclaim the coming of spring.
2132. 2:52:54–2:53:00I do not trust it. Let my Lord keep it upon His own hand.
2133. 2:53:00–2:53:11Congratulations! Reunited with his lawful wife and beholding his son's face. Your majesty is prosperous once more.
2134. 2:53:11–2:53:22Because it was fulfilled through a friend. My desire has borne an excellent fruit. Metali! Did Indra not know of these events?
2135. 2:53:22–2:53:29Come! The revered Mariture awaits you and is ready to grant you an audience.
2136. 2:53:29–2:53:37Shakhantala, take our son. Walk before me. I wish to visit the venerable sage with you.
2137. 2:53:37–2:53:40Am I worthy to go with my lord?
2138. 2:53:40–2:53:46It is the custom on a festival occasion. Come. Come.
2139. 2:53:46–2:53:52M-A-R-I-C-H-A enters seated beside Aditi upon one seat.
2140. 2:53:52–2:53:58Daughter of Daksha. This is Dushyanta. Lord of the earth.
2141. 2:53:58–2:54:08your son Indra's champion in battle. Because of his bow, Indra's keen thunderbolt has become an idol ornament.
2142. 2:54:08–2:54:12His appearance is certainly worthy of honor.
2143. 2:54:12–2:54:19Lord of the earth, the mother and father of the gods are looking upon you with parental affection.
2144. 2:54:19–2:54:21Approach.
2145. 2:54:21–2:54:28Matali. These are the divine pair whom the sages call the source of the twelve-fold radiance.
2146. 2:54:28–2:54:33From whom Indra, Lord of the gods who received the sacrificial share,
2147. 2:54:33–2:54:43was born, and in whom the supreme spirit, beyond even self-born Brahma, found a birthplace?
2148. 2:54:43–2:54:44Indeed.
2149. 2:54:44–2:54:50Dushyanta, servant of Indra, bows to you both.
2150. 2:54:50–2:54:54Son, protect the earth for many years.
2151. 2:54:54–2:54:58Son, may you have no equal in battle.
2152. 2:54:58–2:55:02With my son, I worship your feet.
2153. 2:55:02–2:55:06Daughter, may your married happiness endure long
2154. 2:55:06–2:55:10with a husband like Indra and a son like Jayanta.
2155. 2:55:10–2:55:14What blessing can be given but this?
2156. 2:55:14–2:55:17Be like Paul Omi. Quote,
2157. 2:55:17–2:55:26Daughter, may your husband honor you. May your son become the ornament of both families. Please sit.
2158. 2:55:26–2:55:41By good fortune. Faithful Shaktala. This accomplished son. And the king? Faith, wealth, and righteous duty. This triad has come together in one place.
2159. 2:55:41–2:55:50Holy Sir, Your Grace is unprecedented. First, my desire was fulfilled, and only afterwards
2160. 2:55:50–2:55:57did I receive Your vision. See, first comes the flower, and then the fruit, first the
2161. 2:55:57–2:56:04cloud, and afterwards the rain. Such is the order of cause and effect. But through
2162. 2:56:04–2:56:08Your Grace, good fortune came first.
2163. 2:56:08–2:56:12is the mercy of the mother and father of the world.
2164. 2:56:12–2:56:19Holy Sir, I married this servant of yours by the right of mutual consent.
2165. 2:56:19–2:56:24Some time later, her relatives brought her to me.
2166. 2:56:24–2:56:30Because my memory had vanished, I rejected her, and thus offended the revered Canva.
2167. 2:56:30–2:56:37Afterwards, when I saw the ring, the memory of our marriage returned.
2168. 2:56:37–2:56:39The whole event seemed strange to me.
2169. 2:56:39–2:56:45It was as though a man denied an elephant standing plainly before him, doubted it after
2170. 2:56:45–2:56:51it had gone, and understood its existence only when he saw its footprints.
2171. 2:56:51–2:56:54Such was the disorder of my mind.
2172. 2:56:54–2:56:59Son, cease worrying that you committed an offence.
2173. 2:56:59–2:57:01You were deceived.
2174. 2:57:01–2:57:02Listen.
2175. 2:57:02–2:57:05I am listening attentively.
2176. 2:57:05–2:57:12When Manaka descended from the celestial nymph's sacred pool and brought the visibly weakened
2177. 2:57:12–2:57:18Shakuntala to Aditi, meditation revealed to me that the poor girl had been rejected by
2178. 2:57:18–2:57:25her husband because of Dervasa's curse, and that the sight of the ring would end that
2179. 2:57:25–2:57:27curse.
2180. 2:57:27–2:57:30I am freed from guilt.
2181. 2:57:30–2:57:38Good Fortune, my Lord, did not reject me of his own will, but I do not remember being cursed.
2182. 2:57:38–2:57:43Surely, because my heart was elsewhere, I did not hear the curse.
2183. 2:57:43–2:57:49My friends repeatedly insisted that I must show my Lord the ring.
2184. 2:57:49–2:57:53Daughter, you have understood the truth.
2185. 2:57:53–2:57:57Therefore, do not be angry with your husband now.
2186. 2:57:57–2:58:03See, your husband rejected you because the loss of memory made him hard-hearted.
2187. 2:58:04–2:58:11Now the darkness of his delusion has been dispelled, and royal fortune is subject to you.
2188. 2:58:12–2:58:18In a mirror dimmed by dust, a reflection cannot take shape, but once it is cleaned,
2189. 2:58:19–2:58:24the image appears clearly of itself. As the Holy One says,
2190. 2:58:24–2:58:34Son, I trust you have accepted this son of Shaktala, whose birth ceremony I myself performed.
2191. 2:58:34–2:58:39Holy Sir, my lineage rests upon him alone.
2192. 2:58:39–2:58:41It is true.
2193. 2:58:41–2:58:44Know him as a future universal emperor.
2194. 2:58:44–2:58:50See, crossing the oceans in a chariot that moves steadily without jolting.
2195. 2:58:50–2:58:56This peerless warrior will soon conquer the earth with its seven continents.
2196. 2:58:56–2:59:05Because he subdues animals by force, his name here is Sarvada-Mana, subduer of all.
2197. 2:59:05–2:59:11Because he will uphold the earth, he shall later be renowned as Bharata.
2198. 2:59:11–2:59:18Since the Holy One Himself performed His rites, we may expect all this of Him.
2199. 2:59:18–2:59:23River too should be told in full how Shakuntala's desire was fulfilled.
2200. 2:59:23–2:59:26Manaka is nearby.
2201. 2:59:26–2:59:29You have spoken the wish of my heart.
2202. 2:59:29–2:59:36Through the power of his austerities, the revered Kanva already knows all this clearly.
2203. 2:59:36–2:59:37Ah!
2204. 2:59:37–2:59:41Then my teacher is not angry with me.
2205. 2:59:41–2:59:45Even so, he should hear this happy news from me.
2206. 2:59:45–2:59:47Who is there?
2207. 2:59:47–3:00:13As my revered teacher commands, Son, with your son and wife, mount the chariot of your friend
2208. 3:00:13–3:00:19Indra, which stands here and depart for your capital.
2209. 3:00:19–3:00:22As my revered teacher commands,
2210. 3:00:22–3:00:28Son, continue to satisfy the gods entitled to their sacrificial shares with abundant
2211. 3:00:28–3:00:30offerings.
2212. 3:00:30–3:00:35In return, may the king of gods send rain for your subjects.
2213. 3:00:35–3:00:43Thus, through mutual service, may the friendship between you endure for many years.
2214. 3:00:43–3:00:46with the glory of your shared generosity.
2215. 3:00:46–3:00:52Holy Sir, I shall strive for the welfare of all with my entire strength.
2216. 3:00:52–3:00:56Son, tell me now.
2217. 3:00:56–3:00:59What further boon shall I grant you?
2218. 3:00:59–3:01:07If, after all this, my revered teacher still wishes to show me favor, then may the King
2219. 3:01:07–3:01:11remain devoted to the welfare of his people.
2220. 3:01:11–3:01:19May the learned honor Sarasvati, May self-existent Shiva, Whose power pervades all things,
2221. 3:01:19–3:01:22Bring my cycle of rebirth to an end.
2222. 3:01:22–3:01:24End of Act 7
2223. 3:01:24–3:01:30Thus ends, Abhijnan Asha Kuntalam, A play by the great poet Kaladasa,
2224. 3:01:30–3:01:36A poet who, by the grace of destiny, Attained complete knowledge.

Plain text

KALADASA'S ORIGINAL SANSKRIT PLAY, अभिजना नाश्व कुन्तलम, translated from Sanskrit into मैटिली बाजगज़िंद्र ताकूर, अभिजना नाश्व कुन्तलम, the recognition of शकन्ताला, the great poet KALADASA, Dramatis personae, in order of appearance on stage, P-R-O-L-O-G-U-E May the Gracious Lord protect us through His eight manifest forms. The Creator's first creation, which receives the sacrificial offering, the offering itself, the Sacrificer, the two powers that ordain the course of time, the all-pervading element perceived by the ear, That which is called the source of every seed and that which gives the breath of life to all living beings. Asterisk. The invocation ends. Madam, is everyone ready for their part? The actress enters. Sir, I am here. What are your instructions? Nearly everyone in this assembly is a discerning and accomplished lover of drama. We are to entertain them with a new play by Caladasa. Every role must therefore be performed with the greatest care. With your skillful direction, nothing can possibly go wrong. Madam, let me tell you a truth. Until the learned are satisfied, I can never be confident of my skill as a director. Even the heart of one who has rehearsed with devotion is troubled by self-doubt. That is perfectly true. Now tell me, sir, what comes next? What could delight the ears of this gathering more than a song describing the pleasures of the summer that has just begun? For now, these are the days when plunging into cool water is a joy. When the woodland breeze is scented by trumpet flowers, When sleep comes easily beneath deep shade, And evening falls with exquisite charm. As you command, tender-hearted women adorn themselves with Sharisha blossoms. Whose exquisitely delicate stamens are be kisses only for a moment. Beautifully sung, The sweetness of your song has held the entire audience around us so still that they seem figures. Painted in a picture. Now tell me, what play shall we perform for their pleasure? Sir, did you not say at the outset that we were to present the new play called Abhijnan Asha Kuntalam? The Recognition of Shakuntala. Madam, you have reminded me just in time. The matter had slipped from my mind this very moment. And why? The enchanting melody of your song carried me helplessly away with it. Just as King Dushyanta here has been carried away in pursuit of a fleet-footed deer. They both exit. The prologue ends. King D. USHYANTA enters in a chariot, bow in hand, pursuing a deer. His charioteer is with him. Your Majesty, when I see that deer in you with your bow drawn, it is as though before my very eyes I behold Shiva, bearer of the Panakka bow, racing after the sacred antelope. charioteer. This blackbuck has led us a very long way. Even now he turns his head again and again to watch the chariot behind him, his neck bending with graceful ease. From fear of the arrow he gathers his hindquarters into the fore part of his body. Exhausted. He runs with his mouth open, dropping half-chewed grass from his lips and scattering it all along the track. Look! With every soaring bound he scarcely touches the earth. As though he traveled more through air than over ground. What is this? We are close upon him. Yet he is vanishing beyond the reach of sight. Your Majesty, the ground was rough and broken. I held the reins tight and slowed the chariot. That is why the deer gained some distance. The land is level now. You will have no difficulty overtaking him. Give the horses their heads. As your majesty commands, your majesty, look, look, the instant the rains are loosened. These horses stretch their bodies to their fullest length. The yak tail plumes upon their heads scarcely stir. Their ears stand rigid, and they race beyond even the dust they themselves have raised, as though they cannot endure to be outstripped by the deer." Truly. These horses are outstripping even the steeds of Indra. 4. What looked small to the ice-wells to greatness in an instant? What is in reality divided in two appears to join as one. What is naturally crooked seems perfectly straight. At the speed of this chariot, nothing remains far from me, and nothing near me can remain still. Your Majesty, hermits have stepped between you and the blackbuck at which your arrow is aimed. Then stop the horses. I am stopping them. A hermit enters with two companions. Oh, King! Oh, King! This is a deer of the hermitage. One of the hermitage deer. Therefore draw back the arrow you have aimed so surely. Your weapons are meant to protect the afflicted, not to strike the innocent. I have withdrawn the arrow. Well done. Oh, King! Such conduct is worthy of a descendant of Puru. May you be blessed with a son who will become a sovereign emperor. I gladly accept to her its blessing. We have come out to gather firewood. There, on the bank of the Malini, close against the slopes of the Himalayas. You can see the hermitage of our preceptor, Kashyapa. Unless some other duty prevents you, enter the hermitage and receive the welcome due to a guest, and, when you see the holy rites of the ascetics, Rich in the power of their austerities, proceeding without disturbance, you will understand how well this arm, marked by the bowstring, protects your people, is the father superior at the hermitage. This very day he placed the care of guests in the hands of his blameless daughter, Shakhantala, and went to the sacred moon shrine at Prabhasa to appease the forces hostile to her destiny. Good! I shall meet her. She will speak of my devotion to the Great Sage. We must go now. Charitya, drive on. First let the sight of the holy hermitage purify us. As your majesty commands. charioteer. Even without being told, one can see that we have reached the outskirts of the sacred grove. How so? Do you not see? Here, beneath the trees lie grains of wild rice fallen from the parrot's nests. Here and their stones shine smooth with oil from crushed ingoody fruit. The thorns are so They fearless that, even hearing human voices, they do not break their stride, and the path leading to the pool is marked by trails of water drops falling from the hems of bark. Garments. Every sign agrees. And look. The roots of the trees have been washed by the overflowing channels. The The luster of tender leaves is dimmed by smoke rising from offerings of clarified butter. And here, in the green meadow where the soft shoots of kusha grass have been cut, young dear graze at ease. Slow and utterly unafraid, let us cause no disturbance to the hermitage. Stop the chariot at the edge. I shall dismount. The reins are steady. You may descend, Your Majesty. One should enter a hermitage in humble dress. Take charge of these. Charitya. While I pay my respects to the sages, sprinkle water over the horse's backs and call them. As Your Majesty commands. I shall enter the hermitage through this gate. The ground of the hermitage is peaceful. my arm is throbbing. How can such an omen arise here? Or perhaps the doors of destiny stand open everywhere. This way, dear friends, this way. Ah! I hear conversation to the right of the avenue of flowering trees. I shall go there. Daughters of the Hermitage are coming this way, watering the young trees from little pictures suited to their size. How lovely they are! I shall conceal myself in this shade and watch. S.H.A.K.U.N.T.A.L.A. enters with her two friends, carrying out the work described. Dear Shakuntala, it seems Father Kashyapur loves the trees of the Hermitage even more than he loves you. That must be why he has given the task of filling their basins to someone as tender as a jasmine. Blossom. It is not only Father's command. It is my own devotion as well. I truly feel a sister's affection for these trees. Dear Shakuntala, the grove of trees that flower in summer has drunk its fill. Thumb, let us also water those whose flowering season has not yet arrived. we shall gain an unexpected blessing. That is the word he thought." What? Is this Canva's daughter? Extraordinary. If beauty so rare even in a royal harem belongs to a girl of the Hermitage, then surely the wild vine has surpassed the tended vine of the garden? Good. Hidden behind this tree, I shall watch her natural behavior while she is free from self-consciousness. This Bukkula tree seems to be beckoning me with fingers. Its creepers stirred by the wind. As though urging me to hurry, I shall tend it. Ravird Kshapa must surely be blind. To set her to such hard work in the hermitage. The sage who would make this innocent, lovely body endure the hardships of ascetic life might as well attempt to cut hard firewood with. The edge of a blue lotus petal. Dear Ansuya, the bark garment Priyam vada tied so tightly is pinching me. Please loosen it. Blame your youth for that, it is making your breasts grow. Granted, the bark cloth does not suit her budding youth. Yet it has not failed to increase her beauty. How could it? A lotus tangled in water moss is still beautiful. The dark mark upon the moon, though a blemish, only heightens its splendor. And this slender girl, even dressed in bark, is irresistibly lovely. What is there that cannot become an ornament to a form so beautiful? Dear Shakuntala, here in this natural arba is the Mardavi Creeper that father Kashyapur has raised just as he raised you, attend to it, or have you forgotten it? I shall forget it only when I forget myself. Dear Shakuntala, stand beside the Bakula tree for one moment. Why? When you stand beside it, it seems to me that a flowering wine is embracing the Bakula tree. That is why you are called Priyam Vada, she who speaks sweetly. Her friends' words are sweet and true. For Shakuntala's lower lip has the color of a tender leaf upon a young vine. Her arms imitate its supple branches and youth. Desirable as a flower is poised to blossom over her body. Dear Shakuntala, here is the young Jasmine, the bride of that mango tree. You named her Winnetoshini, delight of the forest, when she chose the mango as her husband. My friend, this pair, who drink water through their roots, have been joined at a most auspicious time. She is youthful with new flowers. the mango tree, heavy with fruit, is ripe for enjoyment. Dear Anselya, do you know why Shakuntala is gazing so lovingly at Veneto Shini? No, I cannot guess. She is thinking, as the young jasmine has found a worthy tree in Veneto Shini's mango. May I do find a worthy husband? That must be the wish in your own heart. Was she born into a family different from that of the father superior? Or, she is surely fit to marry a kshatriya. For my heart desires her. In a matter of doubt, the instinct of a virtuous heart is accepted as proof. Still, I must learn her true identity. Oh, frightened by the water I splashed, a bee has left the jasmine and is attacking my face. Oh, B. Again and again you brush her restless eyes, making her tremble. You hover at her ear and hum so sweetly, as though whispering some secret. And when she waves her hand to drive you away, you drink the nectar of love from her lower lip. I stand baffled by the ordinance of heaven, while you enjoy complete success. Friends, protect me. This robber of flowers is tormenting me. Who are we to protect you? Call Dushinta. The sacred grove is under the king's protection. This is the right moment to reveal myself. Do not be afraid. Do not be afraid. But in that way, I shall declare myself to be the king. No. Let it be. I shall receive their welcome as an ordinary guest. This insolent creature will not leave me alone. I shall go somewhere else. Asteriskor, why has it followed me even here? While a king of Puru's line, the Chastiser of Evil, rules the Earth, who dares molest innocent maidens of a hermitage? At the sight of the king, they are all momentarily alarmed. There is no cause for alarm. Our dear friend was frightened and distressed by a bee. Noble lady, do your sacred duties proceed without disturbance? Now that so distinguished a guest has arrived, they certainly do. Welcome, sir. Dear Shakyuntala, bring the offering of fruit from the leaf-patched cottage. The water for washing our guest's feet is here. Do not trouble yourselves. Your affectionate conversation has already completed every right of hospitality. Then, sir, please sit upon this platform built around the Saptapur Natri, cooled by its shade, and rest from your weariness. You too must be tired from your sacred work. Sit for a while. Dear Shakuntala, it is our duty to attend upon a guest come. Let us sit here. What is happening to me? The moment I saw him. Feelings arose in my heart that do not belong in this sacred grove. Ah! your friendship is charming indeed, for you are alike in age and equally beautiful. Ansuya, who can this man be? So handsome and possessed of such grave dignity? He speaks with tender affection and shows us extraordinary respect. I am curious too, my friend, I shall ask him, Sir, the trust inspired by your gracious words gives me courage to speak. What family do you adorn? And what brings so cultivated a gentle man to undertake the hardship of visiting this sacred grove? Be patient, my heart. Ansuya has asked the very question you longed to ask. How shall I introduce myself? Or rather, how shall I conceal my true identity? Good! I shall tell them this. Noble Lady, I am a Brahmin learned in the Vedas, appointed by the poor Aava king to oversee the observance of sacred law. I have come to this holy forest to learn whether anything is disturbing the rites of the ascetics. Those who practice the sacred life have found a powerful protector. Dear Shakuntala, if father were here today, what would happen then? He would honour this guest by giving him the treasure dearer to him than life itself. Oh, stop it! You invent fantasies in your own minds and then chatter nonsense. I will not listen. I too should like to ask you both something about your friend. Sir, your question is an honour to us. The revered Kasyapa observes perpetual celibacy. Yet your friend is called his daughter. How is that possible? Listen, sir. There is a great royal sage of the Koshika line. His fame is known throughout the world. Know him to be our friend's natural father. Father Kasyapa is her foster father because he protected and raised her after she was abandoned. The word, abandoned, has only increased my curiosity. I wish to hear the whole story from the beginning. Long ago, while the royal sage Kaushika was engaged in severe austerities, the gods became greatly afraid. They sent the celestial nymph Menaka to break his penance. The gods are indeed frightened by another's profound austerity. What happened next? Then, at the beginning of spring, he saw Minakas intoxicating beauty. There is no need to say more. The rest can be understood. She is the daughter of an Apsara. Yes. Exactly. Then everything is as it should be. How could beauty such as hers have been born in the mortal world? Lightning. Glittering with restless radiance. not spring from the earth. My desire lies within reach. Yet even after hearing her friend just about wishing her a husband, my timid heart still dares not believe it. It seems, sir, that you wish to say something more. You have understood me correctly. From a desire to learn the customs of the virtuous, I should like to ask one more question. Then do not hesitate. You may regard the people of a hermitage as your own family. Certainly. Noble Lady. This is what I wish to know about your friend. Will she keep the vow of an ascetic maiden until marriage? Defeating every assault of the God of love? Or will she remain here forever among her beloved does? Whose eyes resemble her own? Sir, even in matters of religion she is under another's authority. Her guardian has already resolved to give her to a worthy husband. Then the fulfilment of my desire will not be difficult. Take heart, my heart, and fill yourself with hope. The knot of doubt is loosened. What you fear to be consuming fire is a precious jewel that may be touched. Ansoya, I am going. What has happened? I shall go and tell Raviyad Gautami that Priyam Vada is talking nonsense. My friend, it is not proper for one who lives in a hermitage to rise and leave it will be forward-distinguished. Guest has been fully welcomed. What? Is she leaving? Ah! The impulses of a lover's mind reveal themselves in the movement of his body. For I was about to follow the sage's daughter, but Propriety suddenly arrested my step. I did not move from where I stood, yet I feel as though I had gone after her and returned. You peevish girl, you must not leave like this. Why not? You owe me two rounds of watering the trees. Pay your debt first, then you may go. My lady. I can see that watering the trees has tired her. For her, shoulders droop with weariness. Her palms are deeply reddened from repeatedly tilting the pitcher. Her breath is still quicker than usual. so that her breasts rise and tremble. A fine net of perspiration lies upon her face, disturbing the shirisha flower at her ear, and as her loosened hair escapes, it's not. She restrains its wildness with one hand. Therefore I shall pay her debt. Do not take me for someone I am not. It is a gift from the king. Then the royal signet must not be parted from you. On your word, Sir, I forgive her debt. Dear Shakuntala, this gracious gentleman has set you free. Or rather, his majesty has set you free. Now you are in his debt. If I have truly regained my freedom, I shall not forget that. My friend, why are you not leaving now? Who are you to order me now? I shall go when I please. Does she feel for me what I feel for her? No. My hope has now found an easy landing place. For, she does not openly agree with what I say. Yet whenever I speak, she listens intently. Granted, she does not turn her face towards me. her eyes rarely rest anywhere else. Hermits. Take care. Protect the creatures of the sacred grove. The women and children are in danger. The king is hunting nearby. Dust raised by the hooves of his horses, glowing red as the flush of evening, falls like a swarm of locusts upon the trees of the hermitage. From whose branches wet bark garments hang. Alas! Disaster! At the sight of this solitary chariot, an elephant has taken fright. One tusk is caught in a shattered tree stump, and the tangled coils of a great clinging vine are wrapped around its body like chains, scattering the herds of deer. It is tearing through the sacred grove, like the living embodiment of an obstacle to our penance. Alas! What carelessness! My soldiers, searching for me, are causing havoc in the sacred grove. In this way I have offended the hermits. I must go at once. Sir, this uproar has frightened us. Permit us to return to the leaf-patched cottage. Go, noble ladies. I shall make certain that no harm comes to the hermitage. We are ashamed to ask that we may meet again when we have not completed the rites of hospitality. But by now we feel almost acquainted with you. Please forgive our conduct generously. Not at all. Not at all. The very sight of you has given me a complete welcome. Dear Shakuntala, come quickly. Go carefully, go slowly, I shall remove the cause of the disturbance in the hermitage. My eagerness to return to the city has faded. I shall rejoin my party and have them camp not far from the sacred grove. I cannot tear my thoughts away from Shakuntala. Four. My body moves forward, but my heart is left behind. Like the streaming cloth of a banner carried against the wind, which cannot keep close to its staff. Thus ends Act One of Shackantala. A play by the great poet Kalidasa. The exhausted clown enters. I can barely walk. I am sick to death of keeping company with a king mad for hunting. A deer here, a boar there, quote, and off we run even at summer noon along forest tracks where the shade is thin. We drink lukewarm water from mountain streams. Bitter and astringent with rotting leaves. We eat meat roasted on spits at all the wrong hours. Mostly birds. Even at night I cannot stretch my body as I please. Every joint has been shaken loose by the jolting carts. At daybreak the deafening clamor of hunters setting out for the woods wakes me. Sons of wretches. And after all this, I am still alive, now there is a boil upon the wound, and a blister upon the boil. Yesterday I fell behind, his majesty followed some deer into a hermitage and, to my misfortune, hot sight of an ascetic's daughter called Shokuntala. Now he will not even speak of returning to the city. He spent the whole night thinking of her. What am I to do? He must have finished his daily bath and dressing somewhere. I shall find him. Here comes the king, wearing a garland of forest flowers and surrounded by armed Yavanna women of the guard. I shall face him. No, this is far enough. Every limb is bruised. I shall stand here, at least I may get a little rest the king enters with the attendance described. Granted, my love will not be easily won. Yet the knowledge of her feelings brings comfort to my heart. Though love has not reached fulfillment, mutual affection is joy in itself. A lover tormented by desire deceives himself by imagining the beloved's feelings according to his own wishes. How so? That tender glance. Though her eyes were turned away, that slow step waited by her hips. As though she meant to tease me, that angry rebuke to the friend who said, You may not go. All of it was truly meant for me. Ah! Love interprets everything in its own favor. Your Majesty, my hand will not rise. So I salute you only with words. Victory to you, victory, my lord. My friend, what has made your body so stiff? What has made it stiff? You poke a finger into my eye and then ask why the tears are falling. My friend, I truly do not understand. My lord, have you decided to abandon royal duty and the pleasures of a splendid life to become a forest? Ranger, to tell the truth, chasing wild beasts and birds every day has dislocated every joint in my body. I no longer have command of my own limbs. Have mercy now, give me leave, at least rest for one day. My friend pleads so earnestly, and my heart, absorbed in Canva's daughter, has itself turned away from the hunt. For I can no longer bend this drawn bow and set an arrow against the thorns who live beside my beloved, as though they had taught her their innocent gaze. My lord, you are turning over some serious thought in your mind. I have been calling out to you as though alone in the forest. How could I do otherwise? I would never disregard a friend's words. We shall remain here. May you live long. Wait! There is something else. Command me, Your Majesty. After you have rested, you must help me with one more simple task. Tasting sweet cakes and fried pastries? I shall tell you what the task is. Tell me slowly. Who is in attendance? Gatekeeper, my lord, your command. Raver, Tarka, summon the general at once. As my lord commands, the general and gatekeeper enter. Hunting may be called a vice. Yet for my lord it has proved beneficial. 4. The front of his body has been hardened by constant contact with the bowstring. He does not perspire even beneath the sun's rays. His body has grown lean, yet the strength of his muscles conceals it. And, like an elephant roaming the mountains, he displays tremendous vitality. My lord is over there. Listening to our conversation and looking this way as he waits for you. Go forward. Sir. Victory. Victory to the commander. The fierce animals of the forest have been surrounded and the ground is ready for the hunt. What are we waiting for now? Madavia's condemnation of hunting has dampened my enthusiasm. Madhavya, stand firm in your opposition. I shall test my lord's feelings. Commander, this fall is talking nonsense. His Majesty himself is living proof of the virtues of the hunt. The waist grows slender and the firm body light Fit for fearless feats of courage, one sees how wild creatures change under fear and rage, and what exhilaration an archer feels when his arrow strikes a moving mark. To condemn hunting as a vice is sheer falsehood. Where else can such sport be found? His majesty's good sense has returned at last go on wandering from thicket to thicket until, Like a jackal leading the pack, you fall into the jaws of some old bear. General, we are nearer hermitage. Your words do not please me. Today, let the buffaloes plunge into pools whose water they have churned again and again with their horns. Let the herds of deer gather in the shade and chew the could. Let the leading boars root up sedge undisturbed beside the ponds, and let this bow of mine rest with its string slack. As the mighty king wishes, then call back the forest guards, order the soldiers to keep far from the sacred grove. Remember, within ascetics, ordinarily so calm, a blazing power lies concealed, like the sunstone, Pleasant to the touch. It releases fire when struck by hostile heat. As your Majesty commands. Off with you now, son of a slave girl. The general exits. Take off your hunting dress. Rave a tucker. You too must not leave your post unattended. As your Majesty commands. We have driven away the parasites without even burning incense. Now sit comfortably upon this canopied seat, enclosed by the shade of the residence tree, so that I too may rest. Lead the way. They sit. My friend Medavia, your eyes have not received their reward, because you have not seen what is truly worth seeing. Are you not standing right before me? Every man imagines himself handsome. I am speaking of Shakuntala, the ornament of the Hermitage. Ah, I must give him no opening. If she is truly an ascetic's daughter and therefore not free to marry, what is the use of seeing her? Fool! Could Dushyanta's heart desire what is forbidden? Then what is the truth? It is said that this daughter of the sage was born of a celestial nymph, then adopted after her mother abandoned her. Like a jasmine blossom fallen upon a milkweed bush after being torn from its branch. Even if she is not the natural daughter of the great sage Kashyapa, what good does seeing her do you? Crown jewel of fools. How long the whole world lifts rows of unblinking eyes and gazes wistfully for the first crescent of the moon and how could she be wholly beyond the reach of a man like me When she is like a glowing fragment of fragrant aloe would fall in among ordinary sticks of fuel Ha just as a man tired of eating sweet dates begins to crave sour tamarind So you have turned from the finest women and developed this longing You speak so only because you have not seen her Anyone who can astonish even you must indeed be surpassingly beautiful. My friend, what more can I say? Was her likeness painted first? And life then breathed into it? Or was she imagined by gathering every lovely form into one? When I consider the Creator's power, her body seems to me a second creation of Lakshmi herself. The jewel among women. Then every other beauty has been stripped of her title. And this thought has lodged in my heart. A flower whose fragrance no one has breathed. A tender leaf no fingernail has bruised. A jewel never set in an ornament. New wine that no one has yet tasted. Who upon earth shall be the fortunate enjoyer of this flawless beauty? Like the perfect fruit of accumulated merit? I do not know. Then marry her at once. Before she falls into the hands of some rustic hermit whose head is greasy with ingoody oil. She is under another's authority, and her guardian is absent. Very well. What feeling does she have for you? My friend. A hermit's daughter is naturally modest yet. When I stood before her, she turned away her eyes. She made her smile appear to have another cause. Thus her love, restrained by modesty, was neither fully revealed nor wholly concealed. What did you expect? That the instant she saw you she would leap into your arms? My friend, when she left with her two companions, modest though she was, she let me understand something of her feelings. 4. After taking only a few steps, the slender girl suddenly stopped and said, a blade of coosagrass has pricked my foot. Then, while freeing her bark garment from a branch in which it was not truly caught, she turned her face back towards me. Excellent! You have been well provisioned for the journey. I suspect there will be many more expeditions to the hermitage. My friend, think of some pretext for returning to the Hermitage grounds. I am thinking, do not interrupt my thoughts with your love sick whining. Ah, what other pretext do you need? Are you not the king? And therefore? A king may demand one sixth of the produce. Fool! These ascetics give their protector another kind of tribute. more precious than heaps of jewels. See, the taxes a king receives from the social orders are perishable. But forest-dwelling ascetics offer him an imperishable sixth share of the merit of their... Osterities. Good. We have found him. Ah! Such steady, tranquil voices. They must be hermits. Victory! Victory! My lord! Two young hermits are waiting at the entrance. Bring them in without delay. At once, two hermits enter with the gatekeeper. This way! This way! revered sirs. Ah! Despite his royal splendor, how greatly his appearance inspires trust, but that is natural in a king who is like a sage. 4. He too now follows a way of life that benefits the whole world. By protecting his subjects, he gathers day by day the merit of austerity. And the sacred title, Sage, earned by his self-command, is carried to heaven in the songs of paired bards. Only the word, Royal, stands before it. Gautama. This is Dushyanta, the friend of Indra. No wonder, then. Indeed, what wonder that he alone enjoys the whole earth, girdled by the dark ocean. When his arm is long as the bar of a city gate. For victory in the gods, fierce battles with the demons depends upon his strung bow and Indras. Thunderbolt. Victory to your Majesty. I salute you both. What is your command? The inhabitants of the Hermitage have learned that your Majesty is here. They therefore have a request to make. What do they command? The revered Sage Kashyapa is absent. And demons are tormenting us. We beg your majesty to remain with your charioteer for several nights and protect the Hermitage. You honor me. The hand of welcome is closing around your throat now. Rai Vataka, command the charioteer in my name. Bring the chariot with my bow and arrows. As my lord commands. This befits one who follows the path of his forefathers. The descendants of Puru are indeed consecrated to the sacrifice of calming the fears of those in distress. Rev. Sures, go on ahead. I shall follow immediately. Victory to you. Madhavia, are you curious to see Shakuntala? At first my curiosity knew no bounds. But after hearing about the demons, I understand its true value. Curiosity has given way to doubt. Do not be afraid. You will remain close beside me. I shall be the guardian of the chariot wheel, that is, a target standing upright, ready to die. Asterisk. My lord. The chariot stands ready for your majesty's victorious departure. But Karabaka, an attendant of the Queen Mother, has arrived from the city. What? My mother has sent him. Asterisk. What are your orders? Bring him in. As your Majesty commands, K-A-R-A-B-H-A-K-A enters with the Gatekeeper. Victory. Victory to your Majesty. The Queen Mother sends this message. On the coming fourth day of the bright fortnight, the Ponsavana rite, asterisk which ensures the birth of a son, will be performed. Your Majesty's presence on that occasion is essential. Medavia. On one side lies my duty to the Hermits. On the other, my revered mother's command. I cannot neglect either. What am I to do? Heng suspended between them like Trishanku. I am truly caught in a dilemma. The two duties must be performed in different places. Therefore my mind is divided in two. Like a river current split into two branches when a rock lies in its path. My friend Madhavya. My mother loves you like a son. Please return from here and perform a son's duty in my place. Tell her that the business of the hermits has detained me here. Ah, I understand. You think I am afraid of these demons. Great Brahmin! No one could even imagine such a thing of you. Then, since the king's affection requires me to go, I shall go. I shall send the entire army with you, so that it causes no disturbance in a sacred grove. Now I am the crown prince. He is terribly talkative. Before the queens in the inner apartments, he may reveal the secret of my love. Good. I shall tell him this. My friend, I am going to the Hermitage out of respect for the sages. There is nothing serious in my affection for the Hermits' daughter. Look! On one side stand men like us. On the other. That girl reared among thorns and holy innocent of love. My friend, do not mistake a jesting invention for a declaration of truth. Yes, yes, certainly. I'll exit. End of Act II of Shakhintala, a play by the great poet Caledasah. A disciple of the sacrificial priest enters. Ah! How great is Dushyanta's power! The moment his majesty entered the hermitage grounds with his charioteer. The demon's disturbance is ceased. And our rites are proceeding without obstruction. What need has he even to set an arrow to the bow? From afar. With the twang of the bowstring. As though the bow itself were roaring a threat. He drives the troublemakers away. I shall take this coosa grass to the priests so that they may spread it upon the altar. Priyam Vada. For whom are you carrying that paste of fragrant Eurya and those Lotus leaves bound with fibers. What did you say? Shaktala has been made gravely ill by the burning heat. And these are to cool her fever. Ah! Tend your friend with great care. She is the very life of our venerable master. I too shall immediately send consecrated cooling water through Gautami. End of the introductory scene. The Love-Sick King enters. I know the power of austerity, and I know that the maiden is under another's authority. Yet, I cannot turn my heart away from her. God of love! Though you know all this, you show me no mercy. How can you be so cruel when flowers or your weapons? Yes! Now I understand. The fire of Shiva's anger must still be smoldering within you. like the submarine fire beneath the ocean. Otherwise, oh, tormenter of hearts, how could you? Reduce two ashes yourself. Rage so fiercely against men like me. Flower-armed God, why do you and the moon, both of whom should inspire trust? Attack the caravan of lovers. Your arrows are flowers, and the moon's rays are cool. Yet till lovers like me both claims are plainly false. The moon pours fire from his frost-like beams, and you make your flower arrows hard as thunderbolts. The priest's rites are complete. Now that I have a little leisure, where shall I give my weary mind rest? What refuge have I but the sight of my beloved? I must seek her. In this fierce noonday heat, She and her friends usually remain on that bank of the Malini, enclosed by a bower of vines. I shall go there. Ah, how delightful this place is in the cooling wind, with limbs made languid by desire. I could almost embrace this breeze, fragrant with lotus and carrying spray from the waves of the Malini. Shaktala must be in this reed encircled bower. 4. On the white sand at its entrance runs a line of fresh footprints, lightly marked at the toes, but deeply pressed behind by the weight of her hips. I shall peep through the branches. Ah! My eyes have received their alms. My beloved! The foundation of my love lies with her her two friends upon a stone slab strewn with flowers. Good! Hidden behind the vines. I shall listen to their private conversation. S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A enters with her two friends, in the condition described. Dear Shakuntala, does the breeze from these lotus leaves bring you any relief? What? Are my friends fanning me? The two friends This looks sorrowfully at one another. The lady is very ill. Are these the symptoms of sunstroke? Or was my suspicion right? No more doubt. Her breasts are anointed with cooling Eucera paste. A single bracelet of lotus fiber hangs loose upon her wrist, even in suffering. My beloved's appearance is lovely. Though the fever born of love and the fever of summer may look alike, summer could never fashion such beautiful distress upon a young woman's body. Dear Shakuntala, we may be inexperienced in the ways of love, yet your condition resembles that of lovers described in old tales. Please tell us the cause of your illness. No cure can be found until the root of a disease is known with certainty. Anasuya shares my suspicion. My longing has grown too powerful. I cannot easily restrain it now. Dear Shakuntala, Anasuya is right. Why hide your suffering from us? Your body grows thinner day by day. Only the radiance of your beauty remains. Priyam Varda speaks the truth. 4. Her cheeks have grown hollow. The firmness of her breasts has softened. Her waist has become slender. Her shoulders droop. And the colour has faded from her body. Afflicted by love, she is both pitiable and beautiful. Like a Madhavi vine touched by a wind that withers its leaves. To whom can I tell this, if not to you too? Yet by speaking I shall now cause you pain as well. That is precisely why we insist sorrow becomes bearable when it is shared. When a friend who shares both joy and grief asks her, this maiden cannot leave the cause of her secret suffering untold. Again and again she turned and cast meaningful glances at me. Yet now my heart trembles as I wait to hear her answer. Ever since that royal sage, the protector of the sacred grove, came within my sight, I have fallen in love with him, and this has become my condition. I have heard what I longed to hear. Love itself is the source of her fever, and love has come to soothe it for me, like a clouded day at summer's end that cools the heat of the world. Now, if you think it right, tell me what I must do so that the royal sage will take pity on me. Otherwise, offer water for my funeral rites at once. These words, which have cut through my doubt, are the fruit of love. The fruit of my effort is yet to come. Her illness of love has grown severe. It will bear no delay. The man upon whom she has set her heart is no ordinary man. But a descendant of Puru, we must quickly find a way to win his love for her. You are right, my friend, by good fortune your desire has settled upon one who is worthy. Where else should a mighty river flow but to the sea? Who would not wish to see the mango tree blossom beside the Atamukta vine? What wonder if the two bright stars of Vishaka follow the crescent moon? I am indebted to you both. By what means can our friends' desire be fulfilled secretly and without delay? Secretly, will require some ingenuity. Without delay, will not be difficult. How so? The royal sage, whose tender glances revealed his desire for her, has also been passing these days without sleep and growing thin. That is true. I am indeed just so. For, night after night, tears flowing from the corners of my eyes, heated by the fever within, fall upon my arm and dull the stones of this golden bracelet, without touching the scar left by the bowstring. It slips again and again from my wrist. And again and again I must push it back into place. Anzuya, we must write a love letter now. We shall hide it among flowers. Saying they are remnants of worship. And place it in the king's hand. I like this subtle plan. What does Shakyuntala think? one question a command? Then compose a lovely verse that begins by speaking of yourself. I am thinking, but my heart trembles with fear that I shall be rejected. Timid girl. The man whose rejection you fear stands here yearning for your love. A petitioner may or may not win good fortune. But when good fortune itself desires something, how How can it be difficult for her to obtain it? You who undervalue your own worth, who would try to ward off water moonlight with a parasol? I shall do as you say. No wonder my unblinking eyes gaze fixedly upon my beloved. For, as she composes her verse, one eyebrow rises, and the thrill upon her cheek reveals her love for me. My friends, the verse has come to me, but I have nothing with which to write it. Can you not scratch the letters with your fingernail upon this tender lotus leaf? Green is a parrot's breast. Then we shall judge your verse. Then listen and tell me whether the meaning is right. We are ready. O hard-hearted one, I do not know what lies within your mind. But because I yearn for you, the God of love burns my limbs in anguish day and night." Slender girl. The God of love may continually torment you, but he is reducing me to ashes. The day does not work such havoc on a pool of night lotuses as the moon does. We welcome this wish, fulfilled without delay merely by being conceived. Heart, if you go on pounding like this, nothing will be accomplished. Do not trouble yourself. Clinging to a bed of flowers. Wearing a garland of lotus fibers already fading. Your limbs afflicted by fierce fever need not observe ceremony. Let our friend grace this side of the stone seat. Priyam Vada. I hope your friend is not suffering too severely from this bodily fever. Now that the remedy has been found, the fever will subside in due course. What do you mean by, in due course? Look, just as life suddenly returns to a peeing at the sound of thunder, our friend is gazing at him without blinking. Gracious sir, your mutual love is plain. Yet, out of affection for my friend, I wish to speak openly as well. Speak! One regrets leaving the heart's thought unspoken. Then me your Majesty listen carefully. I am listening. Because of you, the God of love has brought our friend to this condition. Therefore, peace preserve her life. It would be an honor. My friend, stop troubling the royal sage. Who must be eager to return to the pleasures of his inner palace? Beautiful One! You, whose eyes intoxicate like wine, who have taken refuge within my heart? If you believe that this heart, devoted to you alone, belongs to some other beauty, then you wound me again. Though the arrows of love have wounded me already. My friend, we hear that kings have many wives. Act so that our friend does not become an object of pity to her family. Beautiful one! Though I may marry many women, only two shall be the foundations of my line. The royal fortune embodied in my lawful queen. And this friend of yours. We're fulfilled. My friends, ask the protector of the world to forgive whatever bounds of propriety you crossed in this private conversation. One asks forgiveness of the person before whom the words were spoken. Who else could be offended? Would do people not say behind one's back? Lovely thide girl, make a little room for me as a friend upon this bed of flowers. Half emptied by your rising, and I may be able to endure the offence. Would that alone satisfy you? Enough, you shameless girl. You dressed even while I suffer like this. Priyam Vada, this distressed fawn is looking everywhere. It must be searching for its mother. mother. I shall take it to her. Oh, it is very restless. You will not catch it alone. I shall help you. My friends, only one of you should go. Otherwise I shall be left helpless. The refuge of the whole world is with you. What? Have they truly both gone? Do not be alarmed. Have I? Who longs for your favour? Not taken the place of your friends? Shall I fan you with a cool lotus leaf and ease your weariness with its moist breeze? Or lovely thide girl, shall I place your lotus red feet in my lap and soothe them with gentle pressure? I must not allow myself to show disrespect to one whom I ought to honour. 1. The day is not yet over. Consider your condition as well. Leaving the flower bed in this secluded bower. Your breast covered only by the armour of a plantain leaf. With limbs so tender and pale. How can you venture into the heat outside? My friends are my only refuge. To whom else can I go for protection? Now I am ashamed. I do not blame the king. Asterisk I blame my fate. Why blame a fate that favours you so greatly? Why should I not blame the fate that, though I am not mistress of myself, shows me another's virtues only to mock me? Though maidens feel deep desire within, they frustrate a lover's efforts. Although they long for the joy of union, they fear to surrender their bodies. Once love has gained a footing, the pain is not so great as the pain they cause love by wasting time. S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A prepares to leave. Why should I not fulfill my desire? Son of Guru, release me. Lady, I shall release you. When? After I have enjoyed the happiness of love with you. A daughter overcome by love is not her own mistress. Besides, my friend's consent must also be obtained. Then I release you. Son of Puru, observe propriety. Sages and hermits pass this way. What? Have we come into the open? Son of Kuru, although I have not fulfilled your desire and have given you only the pleasure of seeing me, do not forget me. Beautiful One, though you walk far away, you do not leave my heart, just as, at the close of day, a tree's shadow does not abandon its root in the east. Ah! My feet have no strength to carry me, Father. Hidden from Him behind this Kurabaka bush, I shall watch the bower from the rear and see what becomes of His love. Beloved, though your love is my only happiness, you have left me and gone away in indifference. Can the heart within your body so tender that it cannot endure rough enjoyment? Be hard as the seed pod of a Cherisha flower? Asterisk. Hearing this, I have no strength left to go. What use is this deserted place without my beloved? I shall leave. Ah! My departure is checked. Here before me lies this bracelet of lotus fiber, fragrant with Eucera. Fallen from her wrist. Like a chain that binds my heart. Ah, because I have grown thin, my fibre bracelet loosened and fell, and I did not even notice. Ah, how cool its touch is! Beloved, this unfortunate man has found consolation in the little ornament that slipped from your sacred arm, and remained here. Though it is lifeless, and you yourself gave me none. I cannot restrain myself any longer. Let me see. I shall use this as a pretext to approach him." Ah! The mistress of my life has returned. Hearing my lament, fate has shown me mercy. At the prayer of one who rarely begs, his throat parts dry. A newly formed cloud has burst in rain upon his face. Quickly, after I had gone halfway, I remembered that this fiber bracelet had fallen from my hand. So I returned. My heart seemed to tell me that you had picked it up. Give it back, therefore, so that our secret is not revealed before the hermits. Yours and mine are like. I shall return it on one condition, and not otherwise. What condition? I myself must fasten it in its place. How can I escape from this now? Let us go to the stone seat. Is this the shoot of the tree of love? Burned by the fire of Shiva's anger and suddenly revived by a shower of nectar? Quickly, my lord. Now, from this form of a dress used for a husband, I am reassured. Beautiful one. The knot of this lotus fiber bracelet is not very secure. If you wish, I shall fasten it another way. You understand the art of delay very well. As you please. Beautiful one. Look at it. Your lovely arm, like a dark vine, seems adorned with the new moon. That crescent, taking the form of this fiber bracelet, has left the sky for the greater beauty of your hand and come here with its two tips joined. I cannot see it clearly. Fallen from the lotus at my ear. Stirred by the wind has fallen into my eye. With your permission, I shall blow it away. Then I shall be helpless. And I do not trust you. Do not say that. A new servant does not overstep the limits of the one he serves. It is your excessive devotion to service that makes me distrust you. I shall not let such a beautiful opportunity for service escape. Ah! Your eyes are full of tears. Do not fear improper conduct from me. Raise your face. My beloved's lower lip, tender because no teeth have ever bitten it, seems, with its enticing tremor, to invite me, thirsty for its sweetness. My lord seems reluctant to fulfill his promise. Beautiful one, the lotus at your ear is so close to your eye that their likeness confused me. Enough. That is sufficient. It feels better now, but I am ashamed that I can render no service in return to my Lord. Who has shown me such kindness? What more could I desire? Maiden. Even to breed the fragrance of your scented mouth is a favour. Yet a bee is not satisfied merely with the fragrance of a lotus. If it is not satisfied, what will it do? This. Lady Gautami. Son of Puru, my father's religious sister is coming to see how I am. Hide among the bushes. G-A-U-T-A-M-I enters carrying a vessel. You shameless girl! Are you lying here with only the Lord as your companion? Priyam Vada and Hansuya have only just gone down towards the Malini River. Child, be well and live long. Has the fever in your limbs lessened at all? I feel better now. Child, the day is ending. Come, let us return to the cottage. Heart, when you found the man, rare is the fulfillment of a wish. Why did you keep him waiting so long? Why torment yourself with regret now? Wine-bowl! I take my leave of you until I have another chance to enjoy your happiness. Ah! The fulfillment of desire is surrounded by difficulties. Four. The long-lashed maiden's face. Her lower lip repeatedly covered by her fingers. Stammering syllables of refusal. Was turned towards her shoulder. Somehow I raised it. But did not kiss it. Where shall I go now? No. I should remain here. In this abandoned vine bower that my beloved has enjoyed. Upon this stone lies the flower bed disordered by her body. On this lovely lotus leaf is the love letter scratched by her nail. Here is the lotus fiber ornament that fell from her hand. As I gaze on all these, my sight grows dim. And though this reed bower is empty, I cannot tear myself away. Alas, I did wrong to delay when I had the opportunity with my beloved. Now, if the lovely-faced girl comes again to some secret meeting, I shall waste no time. A prize is not won through gracious concessions. My foolish heart, thwarted by complicated obstacles, makes such plans. Yet when it reaches my beloved's presence, it becomes hesitant in a hundred ways. Your Majesty! Your Majesty! The evening ablation has begun. Tawny is the crests of clouds at sunset. The shadows of flesh-eating demons circle the altar blazing with sacrificial fire and spread terror. All around. Holy Men! Do not be afraid. I am coming. He exits. End of Act 3 of Shakhantala, a play by the great poet Kaladasa. The two hermitage maidens enter, gathering flowers. Priyam Vada. Although Shakuntala has found happiness in a secret marriage by mutual consent with a worthy husband, my heart is still uneasy. Why? When the sacrifice ended today, the sages dismissed the king. Once he has returned to the inner apartments of the city, will Will he remember what happened here or not? Put your mind at rest on that point. A man of such grave and noble character does not act against his own nature. But this troubles me when father hears what has happened. I do not know how he will react. My friend, if you ask me, father will approve and be pleased. Approve and be pleased, how can you be sure? else, his chief purpose was always. My daughter must be given to a worthy husband. If destiny itself has accomplished the task, our revered master's purpose has been fulfilled without effort. You are right, my friend, we have gathered enough flowers for the offering. We must also worship the deities who preside over Shakuntala's married happiness. Certainly. Ho! I am here. My friend, it seems that a guest is announcing his arrival. Shakuntala must be near the cottage. Yes, but today her heart is not with her. Then we must make do with these flowers. You who insult a guest, the man upon whom your thoughts are fixed so completely that you fail to notice me when I came as A guest shall not recognize you even when reminded. Just as a drunken man forgets what he said a moment before. Alas! Disaster! Our absent-minded friend has offended some venerable person. Ah! No ordinary person! It is the great sage Durvasa. Quick to anger! He is striding away! Inexorable is fire! Who can burn anything after fire has passed it by? Anzuya, fall at his feet and pacify him. I shall prepare water for the guests welcome. Ah, in my haste I stumbled and dropped the basket of flowers. I must gather them again. My friend, he is anger embodied. Whose pief of forgiveness would he accept? Yet he showed a little mercy. From him, even that is much. Tell me what happened? And he refused to turn back. I said, Holy Sir, remember her former devotion, with your divine insight, recognize her true worth and forgive this offense of your daughter. And then he said, My spoken word cannot prove false. The curse will end the moment she sees a token of recognition. And then he vanished. Now we can breathe again. When the royal sage took leave, he himself placed a ring upon Shakuntala's hand as a keepsake. So long as it remains with her, this remedy will work. Priyam Vada, look, our friend rests her face upon her left hand and sits like a painted figure. She is so absorbed in thoughts of her husband that she has no awareness even of herself. How could she notice an unfamiliar visitor? Dear Anzuya, let the matter of the curse remain between you and me alone. We must protect our tender-hearted friend. Who would sprinkle hot water upon a jasmine wine? They exit. End of the introductory scene. A disciple of Kashyapa enters. Newly awakened. The revered Kasyapa, returned from Prabhasa, has sent me to determine the hour. I shall go into the open and see how much of the night remains. Ah! Dawn is breaking. For the rising light of morning reddens the mist hanging from the trees. Peacocks! Shaking off sleep. Leave the kusa-thatched cottages. And this deer, lying beside the hoof-scratched edge of the sacrificial altar, starts awake, stretches its limbs and stands. And further, the moon, who spread his rays below and set his foot upon the summit of mighty Mount Sumeru, who drove away darkness and reached the middle stride of Vishnu, now descends from the sky with only a few rays remaining. the loftiest rise of the great ends at last in decline. The sun and moon seem to show the world this truth. Prosperity and adversity are unstable. 4. On one side the moon, Lord of healing herbs, descends towards the western mountain of setting. On the other, the sun appears with the proclamation of dawn. By the setting and rising of these two lights at the same moment. The world is bound to the alternating fortunes of life. And at this hour, now that the moon has vanished, that same pool of night lotuses no longer delights my eyes. Its beauty survives only in memory. Surely the pain caused by a beloved's absence is unbearable to a helpless woman. A N-A-S-U-Y-A enters, drawing back the curtain. Even the sage, detached from worldly pleasure, could not have known that the king would behave so basely towards Shakuntala. I shall report that the appointed hour has come. I am awake, but what can I do? Though I have risen, my hands and feet have no strength to perform the tasks I planned for this morning. My tender hearted friend placed her trust in a man who has broken his word. May the God of love be satisfied now. Or perhaps the royal sage is not at fault. Durvasa's anger is obstructing him. Otherwise, how could the royal sage, who spoke such words, fail to send even one letter after so much time? We could send the ring from here to remind him. But among these hermits, equated only with austerity, whom would we dare to tell? And they would think, her friends are to blame. So we are helpless. Who will tell father Kashyapa? Now returned from Prabhasha, that Shakuntala has married Dushyanta and is pregnant? What can we do in such a situation? Priyam Vada enters. Ansuya, the rites for Shakuntala's departure have begun. My friend, how has that happened? Listen, Ansuya, I had just gone to Shakuntala. She had risen from a peaceful sleep and was bowing shyly when Father Kashyapur embraced her and said, Fortunately, though smoke wailed my sight, my oblation fell into the sacred fire. Like knowledge entrusted to a worthy pupil, you have not become a cause of sorrow to me. Therefore, today itself I shall send you with the sages to your husband's home." Then who told father what had happened to Shakuntala? When father entered the fire sanctuary, a heavenly voice spoke in the form of a Vedic verse. What did it say? Listen, my friend, O Brahman, know this, for the welfare of the world. The daughter bears within her the heroic seed implanted by Dushyanta, as the shani tree bears fire within itself. My friend, I am overjoyed, yet knowing that Shakuntala is being sent away, I feel a happiness that is almost sorrow. Put aside your grief, may she be happy now. Good! In a coconut casket hanging from the branch of that mango tree, I have kept some long-lasting lotus fibres for this very occasion. Bring them, I shall mix yellow Gorochana from the deer, earth from the holy place, and shoots of sacred grass to prepare her auspicious cosmetic paste." Command Shangarava and his companions prepare to escort Shakantala. Ansoya, Hari, Hari. The sages are preparing to leave for Hestinapura. My friend, come, let us go. There is Shakuntala. As the sun rises, the female ascetics, carrying bowls of wild grain, are blessing her and bidding her farewell. Some, let us go to her. Shakuntala enters seated as described, with Gautami and the female ascetics. Child, through your husband's special honour, attain the rank of Chief Queen. Child, bear a heroic son. All accept Gautami bless her in exit. My friend, may you be happy. Dear friends, welcome. Sit here. Dear Shakhintala, Stand up. We shall apply the auspicious paste to your body. Though I am accustomed to this, today it seems very precious. From now on, I shall really be adorned by my friend's hands. My friend, one must not weep on an auspicious occasion long desired. Your beauty deserves jewels. These ornaments readily available in the hermitage do it Here are ornaments. Adorn the lady. All look on in amazement. Harita, my son, where did these come from? Through Father Kashyapa's grace. Were they obtained by mere resolve? No. Listen. At our revered father's command, we went to gather flowers. At our revered father's command, we went to gather flowers from the trees for Shakuntala. There, one tree gave an auspicious silk garment. White as moonlight, one poured out red-lac die, ready to be applied to her feet. And from other trees, the hands of forest deities, extending to the wrists and rivaling the beauty of fresh shoots, Offer us ornaments. My friend, this foretells extraordinary good fortune. You will enjoy royal splendor in your husband's home. My friend, how beautiful you look now. Like a bee born in a hollow. You are longing for the nectar of the lotus. I have never worn ornaments like these. I shall arrange them upon your body as I have seen them in paintings. I know your skill. The two friends act putting on the ornaments. Gautama. Come. Let us tell Father Kashapa, who has gone down to bathe, of the generosity of the trees. Come. K.A.S.H.Y.A.P.A. enters after bathing. At the mere thought, Shakuntala will leave today, my heart fills with the pain of separation. My throat aches with restrained tears. My sight is blurred by anxiety. If affection makes even me, a forest-dwelling ascetic, so sorrowful, how deeply must the hearts of householders be crushed by the fresh grief of parting from a daughter. Dear Shakuntala, your adornment is complete. Now put on this silk garment. Child, your father is here. His eyes filled with tears of joy as though they were embracing you. Bout to him. Father, I bow to you. My daughter, as Sharmishta was honored by Yaiyati, so may you be honored by your husband, and as she gave birth to Puru, so may you bear a son who will be universal emperor. Venerable sir, that is not a blessing but a boon. Daughter, quickly walk clockwise around the sacrificial fires that bear the oblations. May these three sacred fires protect you. Set around the altar. Kept alive with fuel. They're bored as strewn with coosa grass. And driving away evil with the fragrance of the offerings. Daughter, now depart. Where are Shangarava and his companions? The three disciples enter together. Venerable sir, we are here. Shangarava, lead the way for your sister. This way, this way, lady. Daughter Shakuntala, give this message to the trees of the Hermitage, within whom deities dwell, she who would not drink water until she had watered you, who, though fond of ornaments. Would not pluck your shoots out of love for you. For whom the opening of your first blossom was a festival. That Shakuntala is going to her husband's home. Grant her leave to depart. May her road be pleasantly varied by pools filled with lotus-bearing water. May shady trees ward off the burning rays of the sun. May the dust be soft as lotus pollen floating upon water. May a gentle, favourable breeze blow, and may her journey be auspicious. All listen in amazement. These trees, her companions during her forest life, have granted Shakuntala leave to depart. For in the sweet voices of cacus they have answered your words. Child! The deities of the Hermitage have lovingly given you leave as kinsmen would. Bow to the Goddesses. Dear Priyam Vada, though I long to see my lord, my feet move away from the Hermitage only with great pain. It is not only your friends who grieve to part from you. As your departure draws near, the sacred grove itself appears sorrowful. Four, the door has let the KUSA grass fall from her mouth. The peacock has ceased dancing and stands dejected. The wine shed yellow leaves like limbs trembling with grief. Father, let me bid farewell to my wine sister, Madhavi. I know your sisterly affection for her. Greet her there on your right. Mother, embrace me with your branch like arms from today, I shall live far away from you. Daughter, her care is mine now. See, the worthy husband I once desired for you, you have one for yourself through your own merit. Now, freed from anxiety for you, I shall arrange her marriage with this neighboring mango tree. I entrust her to you both. And into whose hands are we being entrusted? Anna Suya, stop weeping. Should you not give Shaktala courage? Father, when this pregnant door that wanders near the cottage gives birth, please send someone to bring me the happy news. Daughter, I shall not forget. Who is this that has come so close and seems to be tugging at the edge of her garment? Daughter, this is the fawn whose mouth, wounded by the point of coo-so-grass, you anointed with healing in good-y oil, whom you raise like a sun, feeding him handful after handful of shamaka grain. He will not let you leave him behind. Little one, why do you follow me? Who have shown you such faithless affection by leaving my companions? Your mother died immediately after giving birth to you. And I raised you when you were motherless. Now I too am leaving you. Father will care for you. Go back. Therefore. Daughter. Restrain the stream of tears about to burst forth. Which obscures the sight of your uplifted. Long, lashed eyes. The hollows and ridges of the path are no longer clear, and therefore your steps are faltering. Scripture directs that a loved one be accompanied as far as the water's edge. This is the bank of the lake. Give us your instructions here and then return. Let us sit in the shade of this peep-hole tree. They all sit and remain there. What message should I now send to King Dushyanta? Dear friend, there is no creature in the hermitage that is not saddened by your departure. Look here, the Chakravak hen calls to her mate. Who is hidden behind a lotus leaf? Though the fiber he was eating falls from his mouth. He does not answer, but looks towards you. My friend, it is true, unable to see her mate. Though he is hidden by a nearby lotus leaf, the Chakravaka cries pitifully, ah, how much suffering my India. Quote, tonight again she will pass a night lengthened by pain without her beloved. The bond of hope makes even profound sorrow bearable. Shant Gaurava, speak to the king about Shakuntala in my name as follows. Command me, revered teacher. Consider well our life of disciplined restraint, your own exalted lineage, and the spontaneous affection that drew her to you without the mediation of her family. Then honour her as you honour your other wives. What lies beyond this rests with fate. A woman's relatives do not beg on her behalf. I have committed the message to memory. Daughter, now I must instruct you. Though we live in the forest, we understand the ways of the world. Nothing truly lies beyond the vision of the wise. Daughter, when you reach your husband's home, Obey your elders. Treat your co-wives as sincere friends. Even if your husband neglects you, do not answer in anger. Always be courteous to the servants. Do not grow proud in prosperity. In this way a young woman becomes mistress of her household. One who acts otherwise becomes the misfortune of her family. Gautami, what do you think? This is all the instruction a young bride needs. Child, remember it well. Daughter, come and embrace me. Father, must my friends turn back from here? Daughter, they too must marry someday. It would not be proper for them to go there. Gautami will accompany you. How shall I preserve my life when I am separated from father? Like is she elephant parted from her herd? Why are you so overcome? Become the honored mistress of a worthy husband's noble house. Remain occupied every moment with his important affairs. And soon, like the eastern sky, Give birth to a sun radiant as the sun. Who will fulfill you? Then this grief of separation from me will seem insignificant. And remember this. When the complete separation of soul and body is inevitable, who should be overwhelmed by the pain of cutting away a boil? May every desire of yours be fulfilled. My friends, embrace me together, both at once. My friend, if the king is slow to remember you, show him this ring in rave with his name. Even at the moment of farewell, compassion is being shown to me. Do not be anxious, affection is always filled with fear of misfortune. The sun has crossed into the second half of the sky. Lady, therefore, make haste. This way, this way, lady, they all move forward. Father, when shall I see this sacred grove again? Daughter, listen. When you have become co-wife with the earth that stretches to every horizon. When you have borne the son of Dushyanta, unconquered in battle, and when that son has taken the burden of the kingdom upon himself, then, accompanied only by your husband, you shall set foot once more in this peaceful hermitage. Child, the proper time for departure is passing. Let your father return now. But no. However long we wait, she will not tell her father to go back. Revved teacher, you must turn back of your own accord. Daughter, my austerities are being interrupted. I must return now. Father will soon be free of sorrow, but I am carrying sorrow away upon my own head. Ah! Why do you make me so distraught? Daughter, When I see at the cottage door the grains of wild rice you planted with your own hand only now. Beginning to sprout. How shall my grief be calmed? Daughter. Go. May your path be auspicious. S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A exits with her companions. Ah! Shakuntala is no longer visible, hidden by the rows of trees. Anasuya, your companion in sacred duty has gone. Restrain your grief. I am returning. Follow me. Father, without Shakuntala the sacred grove seems desolate. Affection makes things appear so. Strange. Now that I have sent Shaktala away, my mind has grown light. Why? A daughter is truly another man's treasure. Now that I have sent her to her husband's home, my inmost spirit is at peace. as when a deposit long held in trust has been returned. All exit. End of Act 4 of Shakhantala, a play by the great poet Kalidasa. The Chamberlain enters. Ah, how old I have grown. When I was given charge of the royal inner apartments, I accepted this staff of office thinking. It is merely a traditional formality. but with the passing of time. Now that I can scarcely summon the strength to walk, that same staff has become my support. I must inform His Majesty, who is within of a matter that admits no delay. But what was it? Yes, I recall. Hermits. Disciples of Canva. Desire an audience with the King. King. Ah. How strange. An old man's understanding suddenly awakens for a moment, then is surrounded again by darkness. Like the flame of a lamp that seems about to go out. He walks on. Mordgallia. I wish to inform his majesty of an unavoidable religious duty. What do you say? But the king has only just risen from the seat of justice and will be disturbed again. Such is the burden of governing the world. See, the sun has yoked his horses once and for all. The wind blows day and night. Fire has no rest from burning, and the duty of a king who receives one sixth in taxes is equally unceasing. What do you say? Then go to the pavilion beside the music hall. Good. Continue with your own task. I shall go there. His majesty is here. He protects his subjects like the lawgiver Manu, and after tending the herd all day, like a great elephant heated by the sun retiring to a cool place. He rests in solitude. Where he in mind. The king and the clown enter seated. Surrounded by attendants. Ah, is that not the music hall? Listen, the notes of Avina are sounding in perfect measure. I understand. Hansa Padika must be practicing her voice. Madhavya, be quiet. Let me hear. Ah, his majesty is absorbed. I shall wait for a suitable moment. Oh, B. Greedy for fresh honey. You once kissed the mango blossom. Why have you forgotten it now? Content merely to hover over the lotus? Ah, a song filled with feeling and melody. What, have you understood its meaning? My friend. I once loved her. Therefore she reproaches me about Queen Vasumati. Tell Hansa Paddika in my name. Your rebuke is skillfully delivered. Your Majesty commands. My friend, you are trying to seize a bear by the hair through another man's hand. Like a man who has not mastered his own desires. I shall find no escape now. Go, my friend. Speak to her courteously. Ah, what a disaster. How is it that this song has filled me with profound longing? Though I am not separated from any beloved. Or perhaps even a happy man grows wistful at a lovely sight or the sound of sweet words. Perhaps his mind unknowingly remembers deep affection from a former birth. Victory to Your Majesty Hermits who live in the forest at the Himalayan foothills are approaching with women. They bring a message from Kashyapa. Having heard this, it is for Your Majesty to decide what is proper. Hermits bearing a message from Kasyapa, accompanied by women. What are your orders? Request the Preceptor Somerata in my name. Receive these inhabitants of the Hermitage according to scriptural custom, and bring them to me yourself. I too shall receive them in a place suitable for the audience of. As your majesty commands. Vasumati, show me the way to the fire sanctuary. This way, this way, your majesty. Everyone is happy when he obtains what he desires. But kings suffer even after gaining the object of desire. How? Sovereignty merely quiets the longing for power. Preserving what has been gained brings only pain. Royal authority relieves weariness less than it increases it. Like a parasol held aloft by one's own hand upon its shaft. O-F-F-S-T-A-G-E. B-A-R-D. Victory to your Majesty. Day after day you labor for the welfare of the world, with no thought for your own comfort, but such is the purpose of your birth. A tree bears the fierce sun upon its own crown and gives coolness to those who seek refuge in its shade. And more, with the rod of punishment in hand, you discipline those who stray from the right path. You settle disputes and grant protection. When wealth is plentiful. Relatives may remain close. But in the end, the duty of a kinsman towards the people falls upon you alone. My weary mind is refreshed. Here is the terrace of the fire sanctuary. Freshly plastered and swept. With a tawny cow standing nearby. Your Majesty! Ascend. Vasumati. For what purpose can the revered Kishyapa have sent these sages to me? Has some obstacle arisen in the austerities of the vow keeping ascetics? Or is someone harming the animals of the sacred forest? Have the vine cease to flower because of some offence of mine? Filled with many conjectures. My mind is confused and cannot reach a firm conclusion." Your Majesty's arms embrace the earth, and therefore every hermitage is free from fear. How could any such thing happen? I believe the sages have come. Pleased by your Majesty's virtuous deeds. To offer praise. The sages enter with G-A-U-T-A-M-I. S-H-A-K-U-N-T-A-L-A walks before them. The priest and chamberlain lead the procession. This way, this way, venerable sirs, they move forward. It is true. When a generous king does not transgress the bounds of conduct, even the lowest person in the The social order does not stray from the proper path. Yet to my mind. Acustomed always to solitude. This building crowded with people seems like a blazing fire. It is natural that entering the city should distress you so. I too. Being a free man. Look upon these people enslaved by pleasure as a bathed man looks upon one smeared with filth. A pure man upon the impure, a waking man upon sleepers, and one who moves at will upon the bound. Ah, why is my right eye throbbing at this moment? May evil be averted. May the guardian deities of your husband's family grant you happiness. Holy men! Behold his majesty! of all four social orders and stages of life, risen from his seat and waiting for you. Great Brahmin! This is certainly praiseworthy. Yet it leaves us unmoved. Why? A tree bends low beneath its load of fruit. A cloud heavy with fresh water hangs low. The virtuous do not grow proud when they gain wealth. Such is the nature of those who live for others. Your Majesty, the Sages' faces appear peaceful and inspire confidence. Then this woman. Who can this veiled woman be? Whose bodily beauty is not fully revealed? Among these ascetics like a fresh bud among yellow leaves. Your Majesty, my curiosity too has increased. I know nothing. Your Majesty, her beauty is worth seeing. One must not gaze upon another man's wife. Heart, why do you tremble? Remember my Lord's unwavering love and be calm. Your Majesty, these ascetics have been received according to custom. They bring their teacher's message. Please hear it. I am listening attentively. Victory to the King I salute you all. May you prosper. Are your austerities proceeding without obstruction? While you remain our protector, what obstacle could arise in the sacred rites of the virtuous? When the sun blazes with fierce rays, how can darkness appear? Now my title, King, has been made meaningful. Is the revered Kashapa, who blesses the world through his grace, in good health? Perfected beings are masters of their own well-being. After asking after your Majesty's welfare, he sends this message. What is the venerable sages' command? You too married this daughter of mine by mutual consent. I am pleased and give you both my approval. Four. I regard you as the foremost of worthy men, and Shakhantala is virtue embodied in joining bride and groom of equal merit. The creator has at last performed a praiseworthy deed. Now accept her. Pregnant with your child, and fulfill the duties of marriage." Noble sir, I am eager to speak. Though it may not be proper for me. Why? She did not consult her elders. And you did not ask her relatives. Since you chose one another, what can either side say to the other now? What will my lord say now? Ah! What is the meaning of this statement of yours? Ah, his doubt about this matter burns like fire. What is this? His Majesty surely understands the ways of the world, even when a married woman is virtuous. If she remains only in her parents' home, people suspect her character. Therefore, her relatives sent her to the man who married her. Whether that husband loves her or not. Did I marry this woman? Heart, your fear has proved true. Oh King, is it not a dereliction of royal duty to denounce your own deed? Why this inclination to invent falsehoods? Such degradation, born of intoxication with power, commonly robs a man of reason. I am being grossly insulted. Child, put aside your modesty for a moment. I shall remove your veil. Then His Majesty will recognize you. As I try to determine whether I ever married this woman of flawless beauty, now presented before me in this way, I can neither accept her nor reject her. Like a be at dawn, uncertain before a jasmine flower heavy with dew. Ah, how deeply His Majesty reveres righteousness! Who else would hesitate when such a duel among women is so easily offered? Oh, King, why are you so silent? Hermit! I have thought deeply, yet I do not remember marrying this lady. How then can I accept a woman who claims me as her husband while displaying the faint signs of pregnancy? Ah, he doubts even the marriage. My hope, which had risen to touch the sky, is shattered. This is not right. Will you insult the sage whose daughter you seduced and dishonoured? He welcomed you to accept what is yours. And, like a robber, you deemed yourself a worthy recipient. Shangarava, be silent now. Shakantala, we have said what we had to say. This is His Majesty's statement. Give Him proof. What use is it now to remind a man who has changed so completely? Whose love lasted so little a time? Yet I must clear my name. And therefore I shall answer him. My lord! No! This form of address itself is now disputed. Son of Puru! In the hermitage you made vows and seduced this woman of simple, innocent heart. Is it right to abandon her now with words like these? Stop these sinful words! Why try to stain your own name and drag me towards ruin? Like a swollen river breaking its banks. You muddy your own clear water and uproot the trees along the shore. If you truly speak so because you fear accepting another man's wife, I shall remove your doubt by showing you this important token of recognition. Ah, how noble that sounds. Ah, the ring is not on my finger. Could it have slipped off when you immersed yourself in the water at Shachi's sacred pool at Indravatarra? Perhaps this is what is called the ready-witter woman receives with her dowry. Here fate has displayed its power. I shall tell you something else. Now something worth hearing is coming. One day in the jasmine wine-bower, did you not hold a lotus leaf cup filled with water? Yes, continue. At that moment my little fawn, whom I had raised like a son, came to us. You coaxed him lovingly and said, let him drink first, but because he did not know you. He would not drink from your hand. When he drank the same water from mine, You smiled affectionately and said, Everyone trusts one of his own kind. You are both forest dwellers. Women who conspire to achieve their own ends Trap pleasure loving men with the honey of such lies. Your Majesty, do not speak so. Reared in a sacred grove, She knows nothing of deceit or intrigue. Old ascetic woman, even among female creatures that are not human. Unschooled deceit is plainly seen. How much more must it exist in intelligent women before flying away? The cuckoo has another bird, raise her young. You see everything according to the disposition of your own heart. Who could equal you, armored in righteousness, yet inwardly deceitful, like a well hidden beneath grass? Yet this lady's guileless anger truly seems that of a woman reared in the forest for. Her eyes do not shoot side-long glances, but stare directly. Intensely red. Her voice is harsh. Yet her words remain clear. Her bimbo-red lower lip trembles as though stricken by cold, and her naturally arched brows have suddenly drawn together. Lady, Dushyanta's conduct is well known among his people. I perceive no such fault within myself. You yourself are the authority. You understand the ways of the world. What can poor, timid women know? Very well, because I trusted the house of Puru and fell into the hands of a man whose words were sweet, but whose heart concealed a knife. I have been made an adulteress. A deed performed in uncontrolled haste burns in just this way. Therefore, particularly before forming a bond, one must examine everything carefully. Affection given to one whose heart is unknown turns into hatred in this very way. Ah! Sir, why do you place such a grave stain upon me solely on the strength of this lady's assertion? His Majesty understands everything in reverse. The words of one who has never known deceit from birth are no proof. But those who have studied the art of deceiving others under the name of, statecraft, are holy. Trustworthy witnesses. Ah! Truth speaking, sir. Let us accept that I am a politician. But what could I gain by deceiving her? Ruin. I do not desire that. Oh King, what use is this dispute? We have fulfilled our teacher's command. We shall now take our leave. She is your wife. Accept her or abandon her. For a husband's authority over his wife is held to be absolute. Gautami, come. Let us go. Ah, this deceiver has truly betrayed me, and you two are leaving me behind. What recourse have I now? Shangarava. My son. Shakantala is following us. Lamenting piteously. When such a base husband rejects her. What is my daughter to do? Ah, shameless woman. Would you act entirely as you please? Listen. If what the king says is true, what connection can we have with you, who have brought grief upon your father? But if you know your conduct to be pure, then even living as a servant in your husband's house should be bearable to you. Remain here. We are leaving. Hermit, why are you deceiving this woman? The moon opens only the night lotus. The sun. Only the day lotus. The nature of a self-controlled man recoils from embracing another man's wife. O king! If absorption in another woman has made you forget your former conquest, what can be done? Your Majesty! Protector of your reputation! I wish to ask the revered priest, which of these possibilities is more likely. With doubt remaining whether I have forgotten or this woman is speaking falsely. Should I stain my own wife with disgrace? Or violate the honor of another man's wife? Suppose we do this? Please advise me. Let this lady remain in my house until she gives birth. I say this after due consideration. Wise men have foretold that your first son will be an Emperor. If the son of this sages daughter bears the marks of Imperial destiny, we shall congratulate her and welcome her into the inner palace. Otherwise, we shall return her to her father's home. As my revered teacher wishes. Daughter, follow me. Mother God, give me a place within you. A wonder! A wonder! What is happening now? Your Majesty, a marvel has occurred. What sort of marvel? After Canva's disciples had departed, while the young woman lamented her fate, and began to weep, and flung her arms upward. What happened then? Near the sacred pool of the celestial nymphs, a light in the form of a woman descended upon her and lifted her away. Rev. Teacher, I have already reached a decision on this matter. Why exhaust ourselves with idle conjecture? Victory to Your Majesty. Vasumati, I am troubled. Show me the way to the bedchamber. This way, Your Majesty, this way. Though I did not remember marrying the sage's daughter and therefore rejected her, my deeply afflicted heart seemed still to yearn for her. All exit. End of Act 5 of Shakhantala, a play by the great poet Kaladasa. The chief of police enters with a man whose hands are tied behind him and two guards. Thief! Confess! Where did you get this royal signet ring? Engraved with His Majesty's name and set with precious stones. Mercy! Mercy! Honourable brothers! I am not capable of such a deed. Perhaps the King mustook you for a holy brahmin and gave it to you as a present? Here my whole story first. I am a fisherman living near the sacred pool of Indravatara. Thief! Did we ask your caste? Satchaka! Let him tell everything in order. Stop interrupting. As our lord, the king's brother-in-law, commands. Speak! Speak! I support my family with nets, hooks, and other fishing gear. Ah, a very holy profession. Sir, it is said that a man must not abandon the hereditary calling of his family. Even if it is condemned, even compassionate and learned brahmin's mercilessly kill animals in sacrifice. Very well, very well. One day, while cutting open a rohu fish, I found this ring shining with jewels inside its belly. Later, while showing it to people here in the hope of selling it, your men seized me, that is how I found the ring. Now beat me or kill me. Januka. It certainly was inside a fish. That explains the stench of raw flesh. We must now investigate its origin. Come to the royal court. Move. Your Majesty the Pickpocket. Sutchacker, you too remain alert and wait for me at the main gate. I shall tell His Majesty how the ring was found. Receive His orders and return. May His Majesty receive our Lord favorably. Januka, our Lord is taking a very long time. Understand that one must wait for a proper opportunity to approach the King. My friend, my hands are itching to throttle this scoundrel. It is not proper to give an untimely death to a man addressed by the auspicious name, Brother. See, our master is returning with the king's command. Now you will either see your family's faces again or become a feast for vultures and jackals. Quickly, quickly, this man Ah, I am dead. Untie him. Release the fisherman. His account of the ring's origin has proved true. My Lord himself told me so. As our Lord commands, He entered the house of death and slipped out again through a crack. Master, my life belongs to you. Rise. You are being given a reward equal to the value of the ring. I have been shown great favor. such favor that he has been taken down from the stake and seated upon an elephant. My lord, this reward shows that his majesty holds that precious jeweled ring very dear. I do not think the king valued it for the jewels. Then why? I suspect that seeing it reminded his majesty of someone exceedingly dear. For the king, who is ordinarily self-controlled, became agitated for a moment as soon as he saw it. This fellow has done his majesty a good service. I would say the enemy of fishes has come out ahead. Masters, keep half of it for your expenses on flowers and beetle. That is nobly spoken. Fishman, you are now my dearest friend. A new friendship should be sealed with wine. Come, let us go to a tavern. All exit. End of the introductory scene. AKSHAMALA enters in an aerial chariot. I have completed my daily rites at the celestial nymph's bathing pool. Now I shall see for myself the royal sage's condition. Through my friendship with Manaka, Shakuntala has become dear to me, and Manaka herself sent me on this errand. How is it that even on a festival day the royal court is not decorated for celebration? It is true that through meditative power we can know everything. But I must honour my friend's wish. Good. Concealed by the magic of invisibility, I shall stand near these two gardeners and learn what has happened." A garden attendant enters, examining a fresh mango shoot. A second attendant follows. O mango blossom! Seeing you, like the breath of the spring month, tawny upon your green stem, I behold the season's auspicious first sight. Parabrida ca, my friend, why are you talking to yourself? My friend, the tender shoot of the mango intoxicates the cuckoo. Has spring arrived? Maddacaraka, now is the time for your songs filled with the nectar of love. My friend, I shall stand on tiptoe and worship the God of love. Support me, if I receive half the merit of the worship. That need not be said. My friend, we are one soul in two bodies. Ah, the mango cluster has not yet opened. Yet fragrance rises the moment its stem is broken. Victory to the fish-bannered God of Love. Oh mango shoot, I offer you to the bow-bearing God of Love. Become an unfailing arrow whose targets are young women. The chamberlain enters angrily. Stop. Foolish girl. His majesty has expressly forbidden the spring festival. and you are plucking flowers. Forgive us, Master. We heard nothing of this. HMPH. How could you fail to hear His Majesty's command when even the trees of spring and the creatures dwelling in them obey it? For the mango blossom is mature, yet releases no pollen. The Rajamala is ready to bud. Yet does not open. Though winter has passed, the male cuckoo's song remains caught in his throat. I fear that even the startled God of Love has returned to his quiver an arrow half drawn out. There can be no doubt. The Royal Sages' authority is great. Master, the king's brother-in-law, Mithravasu, removed us for several days from his majesty's service and assigned us to decorate the pavilion. Opposite, that is why we knew nothing of the order. Very well, but do not do it again. Master, we are curious. If it is proper for us to know, please tell us why his majesty has forbidden the full Moon Festival of Spring. Kings delight in festivals. There must be a grave reason behind this. Everyone knows the matter. Why should I not tell you? Has news of the disgrace caused by the rejection of Shakuntala reached your ears? Master, we have heard only as far as the finding of the Ring by the king's brother in law. Then little remains to be told. The moment his majesty saw the ring, his memory returned. It is true. I secretly married Lady Shakhantala and, in delusion, rejected her. Since then he has been filled with remorse. How? He loathes pleasure and luxury. His subjects can no longer approach him freely each day. All night he tosses upon his bed, turning from one side to the other. Even when courtesy makes him speak gently to the women of the inner apartments, he confuses their names and remains ashamed for a long time. I am glad to hear this. The festival was prohibited because of the king's grief. That seems right. Come. Come, sir. His Majesty is approaching this way. Attend to your work. The King enters with the Clown and Doorkeeper, dressed in a manner befitting his remorse. Ah! A man of extraordinary beauty appears noble in every condition. Though wasted by separation from Shakuntala, his Majesty remains splendid to behold. He has abandoned ostentatious ornaments, and wears only a loose golden bracelet upon his left forearm. His lips are reddened by sighs, and his eyes are wary from anxious wakefulness. Yet his inborn radiance keeps him from appearing diminished, like a great jewel polished by friction. It is only right that Shakuntala still longs for him. after he rejected and humiliated her. This unfortunate heart slept before, though my doe-eyed beloved tried to awaken it. Now it is awake, only to suffer the pain of remorse. The poor girl's fate is much the same. Another attack of the Chakintala sickness. I do not know how it can be cured. Victory to Your Majesty. Mighty King. The royal pleasure garden has been inspected, so that you may walk there whenever you wish. Vasumati. Tell Minister Pishuna in my name that, because of prolonged sleeplessness, I cannot sit in the court of justice today. Let him examine today's civil cases and send me a written report. As your majesty commands. Parvatiana, you too may go to your duties. Very well. We have driven the flies away. Now that winter is over. We can rest undisturbed in this delightful garden. My friend. The proverb, misfortune strikes where one is weakest, is never false. See! The royal signet has restored my memory, and I am lamenting in remorse for the beloved I rejected without cause. At this very moment the delight of fragrant spring has come and stands before me. Wait a moment! I shall strike this mango-shaped god of love with my staff. Leave it! I have already seen the power of your brahminical splendor. My friend, let Let us sit here and divert our eyes by looking at these vines, which in some ways resemble my beloved. But you have only just told the painter Medavini, I shall remain for a while in the Medavi vine pavilion. Bring the portrait of Lady Shakhintala that I painted with my own hand upon the canvas. Such is the state of my heart. Show me the way to the Medavi pavilion. Come, your majesty. This Madhavi pavilion, furnished with a jeweled stone seat, silently welcomes my dear friend. Let us enter, your majesty, sit. My friend Madhavia. Now everything has returned to me. I told you what happened when I first saw Shakuntala. But when I rejected her, you were not beside me. And before that, you never mentioned her name in conversation. Surely you too. Like me, had forgotten all that past between us. I had not forgotten. On the contrary, you told me the whole story. But at the end you said it was not true. Merely a joke, dull-witted as a lump of clay. And afraid the secret might be revealed. I took your words as truth. Besides, fate is always powerful. That is true. My friend, help me. Help me. How has it come to this? How can the courage of a noble man be shaken by sorrow? A mountain remains unmoved even by storm winds. My friend, the moment I remember my beloved's helpless terror, I become utterly distraught. She was driven away from me and tried to follow her own people. Then her father's disciple, a father to her in his stead, commanded sternly, stay, and with eyes blurred by streaming tears. She looked once more at cruel me. All this pierces me like arrows steeped in poison. Ah, what suffering! Seeing his pain brings me satisfaction. Your Majesty, I have a thought. From being who travels through the sky must have carried the lady away. Who but a deity could have done it? I was told that Manaka is your friend's mother. My heart believes that her companions took Shakuntala away. Ah! His delusion was astonishing, but his understanding has not awakened fully even now. If so, you will certainly be reunited with the lady in the end. Her parents cannot bear to see their daughter separated from her husband for very long. My friend, was she a dream? An illusion? A delusion? Or the fruit of hard-won merit? She has gone beyond the reach of memory and left before my longing an immeasurable abyss. Do not say so. The ring itself is proof. Surely a wondrous reunion decreed by fate begins in justice way. Ah! This unfortunate thing! Fallen from an inaccessible place! Oh ring! The reward of your merit has proved as worthless as mine! You found a place upon her finger! Lovely with its crimson nail! Yet you fell from it! My friend! You are far away! I alone am enjoying this delight that is so sweet to hear. My friend, how did you come to place this ring upon the lady's hand? Listen. As I was departing from the Hermitage for my city, my beloved, her eyes full of tears asked me, my lord, how many days will you remember me? And then, and then, Then I placed this royal signet upon her finger and said, each day, count one letter of my name. Beloved, when you reach the final letter, someone will come, show you the way, and conduct you to the inner palace. And then, in my delusion, I committed such a terrible offence. Fate gave you a charming device. And how did this ring, like a fish hook, reach the mouth of that unfortunate rohu fish? Your friend must have dropped it into the current of the Ganges while bowing to the waters at Shachi's sacred pool. Let me reproach it. How could you leave that hand with its tender, curved fingers and sink into the water? But no. A lifeless object understands neither virtue nor fault. And how could I reject my beloved? The beginning and end of this story contradict one another. When shall I see again the beloved whom I rejected without cause? The painter enters carrying a canvas. His Majesty is here. I shall approach him. Victory to your Majesty. I have brought the lady's portrait. Ah, ah, ah. Beauty alive before us. Well done, my friend. Well done. What more can I say? It seems a soul has entered the picture. I feel moved to speak to it. Ah! How skillful is the brush of his companion. The painter. My friend appears to be standing before me. Before, I rejected my beloved when she stood before me. Now I honor her when she is only a painted image, ignoring the river swollen with water upon my path. Ah, I now thirst for a mirage. He has himself admitted everything I wished to say. I see three women. All are beautiful. Which one is Sharkintala? The poor man knows very well how to deceive himself. My friend is not truly here. Which one do you think she is? I think this is Lady Shokuntala. The woman standing wearily against the Ashoka vine, drops of perspiration upon her face. Flowers falling from her loosened hair. One vine like arm drooping like a branch. The girdle of her garment undone. The other two are her friends. You are perceptive. The clear marks of my love are in this picture. Near the lines one can see the stain of my damp fingers. And the pigment of the brush has spread where a tear fell from my cheek. Medavini. The pleasure grove is only half painted. Go and bring the brushes. Noble Medavia, hold the canvas until I return. What else remains to be painted here? Surely he wishes to paint all the places dear to my beloved friend. Madavia! Listen! I shall paint the Malini River with pairs of wild geese in rows upon its sandy bank, the valley at the foot of the sacred Himalaya, father of Gauri, where yak cows rest, and beneath a tree hung with bark garments, A doe rubbing her left eye against the antler of a stag. I suppose he will fill the rest of the picture with the shaggy beards of hermits. Madavia, one more thing. I forgot to paint an ornament beloved by Shakuntala. What was it like? Something suited to a forest dweller and to her tenderness. My friend, I have not painted the Cherisha flower at her ear. It's stem tucked behind it and its filaments trailing to her cheek. Nor the necklace of lotus fibers. Soft as autumn moonbeams. Resting between her breasts. Why does the lady look so frightened now? Covering her face with fingers lovely as red lotuses? Oh, oh, oh! This slave born plunderer of flowers. A bee is hungry for the lady's lotus face. Go and drive away the insolent intruder. You, the chastiser of the wicked, are the one who can remove him. Very well. Bee, you are a welcome guest to every flowering vine. Why tire yourself flying about here? Your loving female bee, settled within a flower, waits for you. So thirsty. She will not drink nectar without you. How gracefully he dismisses it. Creatures of this kind become more stubborn when chased away. You are right. Since you will not obey my command. Hear this now. O B. If you bite my beloved's Bimba red lower lip. Lovely as the virgin bud of a young tree. Nectar I once drank gently in the festival of love, then I shall imprison you inside a lotus. How could it fail to fear such a harsh punishment? He has truly gone completely mad. By keeping company with him, I too have been infected. Count me among those awakened to madness now. Beloved, is it still there? Ah, love can master even a steadfast man. It is a picture. My friend, why are you so cruel to me? With my heart wholly absorbed, I was enjoying the sight of her as though she stood before me. You awakened memory and turned her back into a picture. My friend, I have seen with my own eyes that he remembers the dishonour he did you by rejecting you. Your Majesty, your box of pigments has fallen into the hands of Queen Kulaprabha's attendants. Very well. I have no desire to paint now. He shows Kulaprabha great respect. But that matters little. When the many stringed, Vipanchi is unavailable. Even a one-stringed Lute seems dear. My friend. See. Why must I endure this pain without end? Wakefulness prevents me from meeting her even in dreams, and tears prevent me from seeing her even in a picture. Your Majesty, Pingalika is coming with her companions to snatch and tear the portrait. Her hopes are ruined now. Ah! Victory to the Queen! Victory! Alas, Pingalika, the Tigris of the Inner Palace, has followed Medavini's tracks like a doe and is about to spring upon us. My friend, protect this portrait of my beloved. In other words, you are telling me to protect myself. My friend, even your portrait has been removed from this man who behaves like an enemy towards you. I shall hide it where no one but the pigeons can see it." Victory to Your Majesty Vasumati did the queen not come. Your Majesty, when she saw me bringing the letter, she turned back. She understands the claims of time and does not obstruct affairs of state. Your Majesty, the minister says that because the work is so great, he has been able to examine only one citizen's case. May your Majesty consider it. Medivini, read it. As your Majesty commands, let His Majesty know that Don of Riddie, the sea merchant whose name proved true, has died in a shipwreck. He has no children. His estate amounts to many thousands of millions and will now pass into the royal treasury. Having heard this, let His Majesty pronounce judgment. To have no child is a great sorrow. Vasumati. He was wealthy and therefore must have had several wives. Find out whether any one of them is pregnant. Your Majesty. It has just been learned that the daughter of the guildmaster, Kashava, None of his wives has undergone the conception right for the birth of a son. Then the unborn child is heir to the father's estate. Go and tell the honorable Pishuna so. As your majesty commands. Return for a moment. I am here. Tell him this as well. What does it matter whether the man has a child or not? that whenever any beloved relative of one of my subjects dies, provided the deceased was free from sin, Dushyanta will take that relative's place. It shall certainly be proclaimed in that way. Your Majesty. As people rejoice when clouds thunder at the proper season. So your subjects have rejoiced at your proclamation. When the last man of a family whose lineage has been broken dies without support. His wealth passes to another in just this way. After my death, the glory of Puru's line will suffer the same fate. May that fear never come true. Shame upon me, who condemned and rejected the blessing bestowed by destiny. Surely he is blaming himself because of my friend. I cast away my lawful wife, who was to be the foundation of my line, in whom my very self was planted, who, like earth sown at the proper season, was destined to bring forth a mighty fruit." What was the minister's purpose in sending this letter? Which saddened his majesty the moment he saw it? But no, he never acts without reflection. Ah! Dushyanta has placed his ancestors in peril. After me! Alas! Who in my lineage will offer the scripturally ordained rice cakes and water? Surely my ancestors, instead of water, are drinking my pure tears! For I, childless, am incomplete. This is merely a natural error. His Majesty, standing at the height of youth, will father a worthy son by another queen and discharge his debt to his ancestors. He cannot hear my words. Or rather, only the proper medicine can cure a disease. This line of puru, pure from its beginning, is ending because of me, unworthy and childless, as the sacred Sarasvati river vanishes into a barren desert. Awake, your Majesty! Awake! I shall end his suffering at once. But no! The great gods have ordained matters in this way. I cannot intervene without permission. Very well! The gods, eager for their share of the sacrifice, will arrange the royal sage's reunion with his wife. I shall see how they accomplish it. For now, I shall carry this news and comfort my beloved friend." Disaster. Disaster. Help. Disaster. Ah! That sounds like Madhavia's voice in distress. The poor man must have fallen into Lady Pingalaka's jaws. Vasumati, go and rebuke the queen in my name for failing to control her attendance. As commanded, the Brahmin's voice is trembling as though he were truly terrified. Who is there? Command me, your Majesty. Why is that boy Madhavya screaming? Your Majesty, I shall go and see. Parvatiana, is this a matter of mortal danger? No, Your Majesty. Then why are you frightened? Yet, the trembling that formerly came only from old age now shakes your whole body violently, like a peepal tree in the wind. Then, mighty king, save your friend. friend. From whom must I save him? From dreadful danger. Ah, say something intelligible. Your Majesty, that royal palace called Cloud Kissing. What is happening there? From its highest pinnacle, which the tame Peacock reaches only after resting many times. Some invisible demon has carried away your friend. Impossible. Demons have entered my very house. Royal power is surrounded by countless reversals. Day by day. One cannot even discover one's own unseen failures. Who has the power to know completely which path each subject is following? Run. Run. My friend, do not be afraid. Do not be afraid. How can I not be afraid? Someone is squeezing my neck from behind and trying to crush me like sugarcane. My bow. My bow. A YAVANA woman enters carrying the bow. YAVANA woman. Victory to your majesty. Here are your bow and arm guard. I shall seize and kill you as a tiger seizes its prey. Thirsting to drink the fresh blood from your neck. Let Dushyanta, who lifts his bow to remove the fears of the afflicted, protect you now." Is he mocking me? Stand still. Stand still. Disgrace to your race. You shall not escape now. Parva Tyana, show me the staircase. This way, this way, your majesty. But there is no one here. Hurry, I can see you, but you cannot see me. Like a mouse in a cat's jaws. I have lost all hope of life. Villain. Proud of your invisibility. My arrow will see you. Stand still. Do not imagine yourself safe, because you hold my friend. I am setting this arrow to the bow for you. It will kill you. Your Majesty. Indra has appointed the demons as your targets. Draw your bow against them. A noble man's compassionate. Gentle glance falls upon a friend. Not a merciless arrow. Ah, Metali. Welcome, charioteer of the king of gods. Ah, this demon nearly killed me. Your Majesty, hear why Indra has sent me to you. I am listening attentively. There is an invincible demon king named Durjaya, a descendant of Kalanemi. I have already heard of him from Narada. It is said that your friend Indra cannot kill him. It is said that you can destroy him at the forefront of battle. The moon dispels the darkness of night that the sun cannot remove. Therefore take up your bow. Mount Indra's chariot. And depart for victory. I am blessed by Indra's honor. But why did you mistreat Madaviya so? I shall tell you. I saw that. For some reason, your majesty was sunk in remorse. I acted so to awaken your anger. For, fire blazes up when its fuel is stirred. A threatened serpent spreads its hood, and a man often recovers his courage when he is provoked. My friend Medavia. The command of the King of Gods cannot be refused. Tell Minister Pishuna what has happened here and give him this message in my name. For now, let your keen intelligence alone protect the people. This strong bow has been assigned to another task. As your majesty commands. This way, your majesty. All move off an exit. Thus ends Act 6. A celestial dancer enters. My teacher Narada has told me that at this very time the royal sage Dushyanta has risen above K. Mortal world and gone, at Lord Indra's command, to kill a demon, after I bow then sang his praises. My teacher instructed me to present a dancer for spacious blessing before the learned audience. Go, find another dancer, and come to the dancing pavilion. I am therefore looking for a dancer now. Who is coming towards me? As though she has just received some ornament and is at once excited and satisfied? Why? It is my dear friend Chhutamangiri. Good! I shall take her to our teacher. A second dancer enters in the manner described. Ah! How great is the power of the royal sage Dushinta! Oh! The mighty demon Durjaya has been killed. To speak precisely, accompanied only by his chariotier, Dushyanta poured down countless thousands of weapons and destroyed the powerful Durjaya in a single moment. Chhutamangiri, my friend, you seem love-struck. Are you Parijitamangiri, my friend, I shall tell you everything, but first say where you are going. My friend, I shall be brief. Our teacher has commanded a festive performance today to celebrate the royal sage Dushyentas. Victory over the demon, we are both to go and see him. There must be some reason for this. But if the king is returning to the mortal world, for whom shall we perform? My friend, has he fulfilled Mahendra's wish and taken his leave, or has something else occurred? Listen, my friend, this very morning he departs for the earth, carrying with him, as a boon, the remaining life of Durjaya, and the enamoured hearts of the celestial women. That is why I am at once delighted and agitated. My friend, you have brought good news. Our teacher ordered us to perform before the royal sage of Purus line. Come, let us compose and sing a song here. As you wish, we can dance together, whether to my song or to your recitation. We shall do so, my friend, the spring season turns one be away from rightful pleasure and leads him towards improper conduct. It fills another with love, and saddens yet another with the earth's crimson beauty. of the prologue, the king and Matali enter in an aerial chariot. Matali. Although I merely obeyed Indra's command, the lofty honor he has shown me makes me feel unworthy. Your Majesty, neither of you acknowledges the other's debt. How so? Having given Indra such aid, you see his high honor and consider your deed insignificant. While he considers the the honor he bestowed unequal to your great achievement. It is not so. The honor shown me at my departure far exceeded my desire. I was seated upon half his throne before the gods. Then Indra looked smilingly at Jayanta standing beside him. Who inwardly longed for that distinction? And placed upon me a garland of heavenly mandara flowers that had brushed his breast. Anointed with yellow sandalwood. Why should such honour from the king of gods not befit you? See, for Indra, who desires peace. Two things have drawn out the thorns of heaven. The demons, your polished arrows, and, long ago, the claws of Nersimha. The greatness lies within Dra. See. Know that when a servant succeeds in a great undertaking, it is because a great master has bestowed honor upon him. If the Thousand Raid's son had not placed Aruna at the front of his chariot, where would Aruna have found the power to destroy darkness? Those words are worthy of you. Your Majesty. Look here. The radiance of your fame has reached the roof of heaven. Considering the greatness of your deeds, the gods paint them upon the outer leaves of wish-fulfilling vines with cosmetic colors left over by celestial nymphs. Matali. Yesterday. In my eagerness to ascend and battle the demon. I paid no attention to the geography of heaven. Through what divine region are we traveling now? This is the region of the current bearing wind. Free from vapor. Sanctified by Vishnu's second stride, it supports the heavenly stream of the threefold Ganges and turns the constellations with rays. Radiating in a circle. That is why my inmost spirit and all my senses, within and without, or at peace, I believe Leave we have descended into the region of clouds. How did you know? Chautaka birds fly between the spokes of your chariot wheels. The horses are coloured by flashes of lightning. And the rims of the wheels are wet. These signs show that the chariot has passed over rain-bearing clouds. In a moment you will reach the realm you rule. Because we are descending at great speed. mortal world appears strange. 4. The earth seems to recede as the mountains rise. The screen of leaves lifts, revealing the trunks of trees, rivers that looked waterless, like thin lines, gain their full forms and become distinct. Look! It is as though someone had thrown the earth upward and brought it close to us. Ah, the beauty of the earth is incomparable. Matali, what mountain is this? Plunged into the eastern and western seas, gleaming as though it dripped gold like a wall of clouds at sunset. Your Majesty, this is Golden Peak, the mountain of the Kinaris and the finest place for ascetics to attain perfection. Hirpraja Patti, father of gods and demons, born from the self-existent Marichi, performs austerities with his wife. We should not neglect such an auspicious opportunity. Let us circle him and receive a vision of the Holy One. That is our foremost duty. We have landed. Matali, there was no sound from the wheel rims. No dust rose into view. Your chariot landed without unknowing it. Because it did not touch the earth. There was no jolt. Such is the difference between you and Indra. In which direction is Maricha's hermitage? There stands the sage, facing the sun, motionless as a pillar, half his body buried in an anthill, wearing a second sacred thread made from a serpent's cast skin, his throat bound by the noose of a withered vine, and the immense matted locks covering his shoulders filled with birds' nests. Homage to the Great Aesthetic We have now entered Prajapati's Sacred Grove, where Aditi tends the Mandara Tree. How wonderful! I feel as though immersed in a lake of nectar that grants greater repose than heaven itself. Descend. What now? The harnessed chariot will remain here. I too shall descend. This way. This way. Your Majesty. Your Majesty. behold the sacred grove of the perfected sages. Two things here fill me with wonder. Though they live in a forest of wish-fulfilling trees, they sustain life upon air alone. They bathe at twilight in sacred water filled with thousands of golden lotus leaves. They meditate in caves of jewels. They practice restraint to mid-celestial nymphs, those surrounded by everything for whose attainment other sages perform austerities. These sages still practice austerity. Great men have lofty aspirations. Elder Shaqalya, with what task is our teacher occupied? What do you say? Aditi has asked him about the virtues of a faithful wife, and he is explaining Therefore my request must await a proper moment. I shall inform Prajapati of your arrival. Until then, sit beneath this Ashoka tree. As you wish. There is no hope that my desire will be fulfilled. Oh arm, why do you throb in vain? Good fortune rejected once later becomes sorrow. No. Do not be wicked. This is no place for wickedness. Who is administering justice? Ah! A child in years but a grown man in courage. Whom two female ascetics are trying to restrain. Striking a lion cub with his hand. He is dragging it away. It's main scattered by his harsh grip. The cub. Only half finished way. It's main scattered by his harsh grip. The cub, only half finished drinking at its mother's breast, struggles against him. The boy enters doing as described, restrained by two female acetics. Open your mouth, lion. Open your mouth. I want to count your teeth. Wicked child, why do you torment an animal who is like a son to us? Your ferocity grows greater and greater. The sages rightly named you Sarvadamana. Subduer of all. Why does this child draw my heart as though he were my own son? Surely my childlessness has made me affectionate towards all children. If you do not release her cub, the lioness will spring upon you. Ah, I am terribly frightened. This child seems like the seed of mighty splendor, a spark of fire waiting only for fuel. Child, release the lion cub. We shall give you another toy. Where is it? Give it to me. What? His hand bears the marks of an emperor. 4. His hand stretched out to ask for the tempting object. Its fingers joined by delicate webs shines like a single lotus whose gaps between the petals are not yet clear, beginning to open in the redness of dawn. My friend, promises alone cannot restrain him. Go to our cottage. There is a brightly colored clay peacock belonging to the child sage mankanker. Bring him that toy. As you see. For now, I shall keep playing with this one. This obstinate child draws me to him. Blessed are those who take a son upon their lap, and are soiled by the dust of his body. Whose little teeth flower in causeless laughter. Whose His indistinct speech is exceedingly sweet, and who loves to rest in his father's arms? Very well. You will not obey me. Is there any boy of the Hermitage here? Noble sir, please come and free the suffering lion cub from this unruly child's grip. Which is so difficult to loosen. Certainly. Son of a great sage, Why do you perform an act unworthy of a hermitage? When your self-controlled father rejoices that living creatures seek his protection, why stain his glory as a young serpent pollutes a sandalwood tree? He is not the son of a sage. His conduct, suited to his appearance, seemed to declare his identity. Trusting the surroundings. I was mistaken. If touching the limbs of this child from another family gives me such joy, how much happiness must he give to the man from whose body he was born? A wonder. A wonder. What is it? I am astonished by the great resemblance between you. Although there is no relationship between you. And he is as easy with you as though you were someone long familiar. If he is not a sages son, what is his family? He is the descendant of Puru. What? He belongs to my own line. That is why she sees a resemblance to me. The descendants of Puru observe the final custom of their house. First, to protect the earth. They dwell in white plastered royal palaces. Later, living at the roots of trees, they devote themselves solely to ascetic vows, but immortal cannot come here by his own will. You are right, sir, but this child's mother is related to a celestial nymph, and therefore she gave birth to him here, in the sacred grove of the Father of the Gods. ground for suspicion has appeared. Of which royal sage is this lady the wife? Who would speak the name of a man who abandoned his lawful wife? Can this story concern me in particular? Should I ask the child's mother's name? No. It is improper to inquire about another man's wife. The second female ascetic The boy's mother, who is like, enters carrying a clay peacock. Sarvada Mana, look at this beautiful bird. Where is mother? His love for his mother confused him when he heard a similar word. Child, look at the Shakuntha, the bird. How beautiful this toy peacock is. Is his mother's name Shakuntala? But names may be alike. Mirage? This may end in bitter disappointment. Aunt, I like this beautiful peacock. Ah, the protective amulet is missing from his wrist. Do not be anxious. It must have fallen while he wrestled with the lion cub. Do not touch it. What has he picked it up? Why are you stopping me? Listen, sir, this is a powerful herb called aparajata given by Mareacher during the child's birth ceremony. If it falls upon the ground, no one except his mother, his father, or the child himself can lift it. What happens if someone else picks it up? It turns into a snake and bites the stranger. Have you yourselves seen this transformation? many times. Then, now that my hope has been fulfilled, why should I not rejoice? Samyata, thumb, let us carry this news to, Shakuntala, who has completed her religious observance. Thumb, let me go, I want to go to mother. Son, we shall go together and bring joy to your mother. My father is Dushyanta, not you. That very denial is my proof. S.H.A.K.U.N.T.A.L.A. enters, her hair bound in a single braid. I have heard that Sarvada Manas protective amulet remained in its natural form even though they condition for its transformation arose. Yet I cannot trust my fortune. Still, what Aksharmala told me makes it seem possible. Ah! It is Lady Shakuntala. Clothed in grey, her face made thin by religious observance. Her hair bound in a single braid. This woman of spotless character has endured the long austerity of separation from cruel me. He does not look unlike my husband. Then who is he? Touching with his hand and defiling my son. Who is protected by sacred spells? Mother, this stranger keeps calling me, Son. Beloved, the cruelty I showed you has now reached a happy end. I beg you to recognize me. Heart, take courage, take courage. Fate has shown mercy after casting me down and satisfying its anger. This is my husband. By good fortune. Lovely Faced One. Now that the bewildering darkness has lifted from memory, you stand before me. When an eclipse has ended, the moon and red rohenia reunited. Victory to my lord. Beloved. So the word, victory, is caught in your tears. I am victorious, for I can see your pale face. Its lips unadorned. Mother, who is he? Son, ask my food. Slender one. Let the pain of my rejection leave your heart. At that time I was lost in terrible delusion. A blind man brushes away even a garland upon his head, thinking it a snake. In deepest darkness, a man treats an auspicious thing in just this way. Rise, my lord! At that time some result of my former deeds, hostile to my happiness, must have been ripening. That is why, though compassionate by nature, you changed so greatly. But how did my lord's memory return? I shall tell you everything after removing the Thorn of Grief. Slender one. On that day. In my delusion I ignored the tears that troubled your lips. Now I shall wipe away these tears resting upon your trembling lashes and free myself from remorse. My lord. Ah, this is the drink. Yes, when it was miraculously recovered, it restored my memory. It could have fulfilled my desire in a moment. Yet when I needed it to convince my Lord, it was nowhere to be found. Then let the vine receive its flower and proclaim the coming of spring. I do not trust it. Let my Lord keep it upon His own hand. Congratulations! Reunited with his lawful wife and beholding his son's face. Your majesty is prosperous once more. Because it was fulfilled through a friend. My desire has borne an excellent fruit. Metali! Did Indra not know of these events? Come! The revered Mariture awaits you and is ready to grant you an audience. Shakhantala, take our son. Walk before me. I wish to visit the venerable sage with you. Am I worthy to go with my lord? It is the custom on a festival occasion. Come. Come. M-A-R-I-C-H-A enters seated beside Aditi upon one seat. Daughter of Daksha. This is Dushyanta. Lord of the earth. your son Indra's champion in battle. Because of his bow, Indra's keen thunderbolt has become an idol ornament. His appearance is certainly worthy of honor. Lord of the earth, the mother and father of the gods are looking upon you with parental affection. Approach. Matali. These are the divine pair whom the sages call the source of the twelve-fold radiance. From whom Indra, Lord of the gods who received the sacrificial share, was born, and in whom the supreme spirit, beyond even self-born Brahma, found a birthplace? Indeed. Dushyanta, servant of Indra, bows to you both. Son, protect the earth for many years. Son, may you have no equal in battle. With my son, I worship your feet. Daughter, may your married happiness endure long with a husband like Indra and a son like Jayanta. What blessing can be given but this? Be like Paul Omi. Quote, Daughter, may your husband honor you. May your son become the ornament of both families. Please sit. By good fortune. Faithful Shaktala. This accomplished son. And the king? Faith, wealth, and righteous duty. This triad has come together in one place. Holy Sir, Your Grace is unprecedented. First, my desire was fulfilled, and only afterwards did I receive Your vision. See, first comes the flower, and then the fruit, first the cloud, and afterwards the rain. Such is the order of cause and effect. But through Your Grace, good fortune came first. is the mercy of the mother and father of the world. Holy Sir, I married this servant of yours by the right of mutual consent. Some time later, her relatives brought her to me. Because my memory had vanished, I rejected her, and thus offended the revered Canva. Afterwards, when I saw the ring, the memory of our marriage returned. The whole event seemed strange to me. It was as though a man denied an elephant standing plainly before him, doubted it after it had gone, and understood its existence only when he saw its footprints. Such was the disorder of my mind. Son, cease worrying that you committed an offence. You were deceived. Listen. I am listening attentively. When Manaka descended from the celestial nymph's sacred pool and brought the visibly weakened Shakuntala to Aditi, meditation revealed to me that the poor girl had been rejected by her husband because of Dervasa's curse, and that the sight of the ring would end that curse. I am freed from guilt. Good Fortune, my Lord, did not reject me of his own will, but I do not remember being cursed. Surely, because my heart was elsewhere, I did not hear the curse. My friends repeatedly insisted that I must show my Lord the ring. Daughter, you have understood the truth. Therefore, do not be angry with your husband now. See, your husband rejected you because the loss of memory made him hard-hearted. Now the darkness of his delusion has been dispelled, and royal fortune is subject to you. In a mirror dimmed by dust, a reflection cannot take shape, but once it is cleaned, the image appears clearly of itself. As the Holy One says, Son, I trust you have accepted this son of Shaktala, whose birth ceremony I myself performed. Holy Sir, my lineage rests upon him alone. It is true. Know him as a future universal emperor. See, crossing the oceans in a chariot that moves steadily without jolting. This peerless warrior will soon conquer the earth with its seven continents. Because he subdues animals by force, his name here is Sarvada-Mana, subduer of all. Because he will uphold the earth, he shall later be renowned as Bharata. Since the Holy One Himself performed His rites, we may expect all this of Him. River too should be told in full how Shakuntala's desire was fulfilled. Manaka is nearby. You have spoken the wish of my heart. Through the power of his austerities, the revered Kanva already knows all this clearly. Ah! Then my teacher is not angry with me. Even so, he should hear this happy news from me. Who is there? As my revered teacher commands, Son, with your son and wife, mount the chariot of your friend Indra, which stands here and depart for your capital. As my revered teacher commands, Son, continue to satisfy the gods entitled to their sacrificial shares with abundant offerings. In return, may the king of gods send rain for your subjects. Thus, through mutual service, may the friendship between you endure for many years. with the glory of your shared generosity. Holy Sir, I shall strive for the welfare of all with my entire strength. Son, tell me now. What further boon shall I grant you? If, after all this, my revered teacher still wishes to show me favor, then may the King remain devoted to the welfare of his people. May the learned honor Sarasvati, May self-existent Shiva, Whose power pervades all things, Bring my cycle of rebirth to an end. End of Act 7 Thus ends, Abhijnan Asha Kuntalam, A play by the great poet Kaladasa, A poet who, by the grace of destiny, Attained complete knowledge.

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