Passage 1
एवं षड्गुणसम्पन्ने यौवराज्यं प्रकुर्वति। रामे सर्वगुणारामे प्रजानां परमा मुदः॥१॥
When Rāma, the delight and resting place of every virtue, assumed the office of crown prince endowed with the six divine excellences, the people rejoiced supremely.
Passage 2
बभूवुः परमाश्चर्यं प्रादुरासीत्प्रपश्यताम्। जनानां विस्मयश्चासीद्विलोक्य परमाः श्रियः॥२॥
Extraordinary wonders appeared before the people’s eyes, and they marveled on beholding the highest forms of prosperity.
Passage 3
वीर्यं च बहु तस्यासीद्यशश्च भुवनेष्वभूत्। राज्ञो दशरथस्यैष हृदयानन्दनोऽभवत्॥३॥
His prowess was immense and his fame filled the worlds; he became the joy of King Daśaratha’s heart.
Passage 4
अथैकदा रामचन्द्रे यौवराज्यासनस्थिते। विप्राः कोलाहलं चक्रुर्द्वारि संगत्य तत्क्षणे॥४॥
Once, while Rāmacandra sat upon the crown prince’s throne, brahmins gathered at the gate and immediately raised an outcry. The brahmins said:
Passage 5
हा हताः स्म प्रभो रामे यौवराज्यस्थिते वयम्। व्याघ्रेण वनचारिण्यो गावोऽस्माकं विनाशिताः॥५॥
Alas, we are ruined even while Lord Rāma holds the crown-prince’s office! A tiger has killed our cows as they grazed in the forest.
Passage 6
अहो दशरथो राजा विरक्तो भूमिपालने। रामे सर्वां धुरं न्यस्य कमिदानीं वदामहे॥६॥
King Daśaratha has withdrawn from governing the land and placed the entire burden upon Rāma. To whom can we speak now?
Passage 7
निर्धनानां द्विजानां नो गावो हि परमं धनम्। अकस्मात्तत्क्षयं नीतं व्याघ्ररूपेण मृत्युना॥७॥
For poor brahmins such as us, cows are our greatest wealth. Death in the form of a tiger has suddenly destroyed that wealth.
Passage 8
ईदृशा बलिनो वीरा रघुनाथनिदेशगाः। न केनापि हतो व्याघ्रः कालरूपी गवां हि नः॥८॥
Though mighty heroes obey Raghunātha’s command, none has killed the tiger that became death for our cows.
Passage 9
प्रजानां पालने धर्मं जानात्येको रघूद्वहः। किमभाग्येन नो जातं हा हतं गोधनं बलात्॥९॥
Raghu’s scion alone understands the duty of protecting his subjects. What misfortune has struck us? Alas, our herd has been violently destroyed.
Passage 10
गोपालोऽपि हतस्तेन व्याघ्रेण पिशिताशिना। अहो दुर्दैवमस्माकं युवराजे रघूद्वहे॥१०॥
That flesh-eating tiger killed even the cowherd. What terrible fortune is ours while Raghu’s scion is crown prince!
Passage 11
अहो राम महावीर बलिनां श्रेष्ठ सत्पते। निर्धनाः स्म वयं जाता गावो व्याघ्रेण भक्षिताः॥११॥
O Rāma, great hero, foremost of the mighty and lord of the good, we have become destitute because the tiger devoured our cows.
Passage 12
अहो वीर नरश्रेष्ठ श्रीमन् दशरथात्मज। त्रैलोक्यदारिद्र्यहर हरे त्वयि नो दुर्गतिः कथम्॥१२॥
O heroic and glorious son of Daśaratha, best of men, you remove the poverty of the three worlds. How can such misery befall us while you are here?
Passage 13
घटोध्न्यः पृथुदोहास्ता गावो नः कान्तविग्रहाः। क्व नु दृश्याः पुष्टयस्ताः समश्रृङ्ग्यः सुलोचनाः॥१३॥
Where now are our lovely cows, their udders full like jars, yielding abundant milk, well nourished, even horned, and beautiful-eyed?
Passage 14
ईदृशी विपदस्माकं धेनवो व्याघ्रभक्षिताः। किं कुर्मः क्व व्रजामश्च दैवेनैव हता वयम्॥१४॥
Such is our disaster: our cows have been eaten by a tiger. What can we do and where can we go? Fate itself has struck us down.
Passage 15
इत्युक्त्वा रुरुदुः सर्वे ब्राह्मणा जातमन्यवः। शुश्राव तद्दशरथो राजा प्रकृतिपालकः॥१५॥
Having spoken thus, all the indignant brahmins wept. King Daśaratha, protector of his subjects, heard them. King Daśaratha said:
Passage 16
क एते करुणाशब्दं कुर्वन्ति द्वारदेशगाः। रुदन्तो भर्त्सयन्तश्च शपन्तश्च विशेषतः॥१६॥
Who are these people at the gate crying piteously, weeping, reproaching, and even uttering curses?
Passage 17
हा हताः स्म इति क्रोशं कुर्वन्तो दैवपीडिताः। अहो मयि स्थिते राज्ञि रामे च युवराज्यगे॥१७॥
Afflicted by fate, they cry, “Alas, we are ruined!” How can this occur while I am king and Rāma holds the crown-prince’s office?
Passage 18
प्रजानामीदृशी पीडा कथं भवति भूयसी। ततो दूतः समागत्य वृत्तं तद्विनिवेदितम्॥१८॥
How has such great suffering overtaken my subjects? A messenger then came and reported what had happened.
Passage 19
ब्राह्मणानां हता गावो व्याघ्रेण गहने वने। इति भूयो रुदन्तस्ते विलपन्ति विपद्गताः॥१९॥
A tiger killed the brahmins’ cows in the deep forest; stricken by calamity, they repeatedly weep and lament.
Passage 20
अयोध्यावासिनः केचिद्विप्रा दैवेन पीडिताः। अस्थाने रोदनं ह्येतत्किं कार्यं धरणीपते॥२०॥
Some brahmins of Ayodhyā have been afflicted by fate. Their weeping here is not without cause—what is to be done, lord of the earth?
Passage 21
अथादिशन्नृपो वीरान्व्याघ्रं हन्तुं भयानकम्। गच्छन्तु विपिनं वीरा व्याघ्रस्तिष्ठति यत्र सः॥२१॥
The king ordered his warriors to kill the dreadful tiger: “Heroes, go to the forest where that tiger dwells.”
Passage 22
गावो हि भक्षिता येन ब्राह्मणानां पुरौकसाम्। एतद्ध्यनुचितं राज्ञः प्रजायाः पीडनं तु यत्॥२२॥
It has eaten the cows of brahmins living in the city. It is wholly improper for a king’s subjects to suffer such harm.
Passage 23
ततो विनिर्गता वीराः नगरात्खड्गपाणयः। कटिबद्धतूणीराः कवचैर्व्यूढविग्रहाः॥२३॥
The warriors departed the city with swords in hand, quivers bound at their waists, and bodies enclosed in armor.
Passage 24
नानाशस्त्राण्युपादाय भुशुण्डीपरिघांस्तथा। शतघ्नीस्तोमरांश्चैव चापबाणादिकांस्तथा॥२४॥
They carried many weapons—firearms, iron clubs, śataghnīs, javelins, bows, arrows, and more.
Passage 25
सरय्वाः पुलिने तद्धि घोरं गहनं वनम्। विचित्रश्वापदाकीर्णं शल्लकीकुलदुर्गमम्॥२५॥
On the Sarayū’s bank lay a dreadful, dense forest crowded with strange wild beasts and difficult to cross because of herds of porcupines.
Passage 26
प्लवङ्गमकुलैः कीर्णं तरक्षुगणसेवितम्। शिवानिनादभयदं वराहोत्कीर्णसृस्तकम्॥२६॥
It teemed with monkeys and was frequented by hyenas; jackals’ cries inspired terror, and boars had rooted up its ground.
Passage 27
वारणैर्निर्गतमदैः समन्ताद्व्याप्तमन्तरा। व्यालोलूकगणाकीर्णं महामहिषभीषणम्॥२७॥
Rut-maddened elephants ranged throughout it; it abounded in serpents and owls and was terrifying with enormous buffaloes.
Passage 28
मांसाशिभिर्बहुविधैः पशुभिर्भृशनादितम्। गिरिगह्वरदुर्देशं विविधानेकपद्रुमम्॥२८॥
Many kinds of flesh-eating beasts filled it with cries. Its mountain caves were hard to reach, and countless varieties of trees grew there.
Passage 29
तमालसालसरलकिंशुकोघसमावृतम्। लतावितानसंछन्ननानाभ्रुहभयङ्करम्॥२९॥
Tamāla, śāla, pine, and masses of kiṃśuka trees enclosed it; canopies of vines covered its many fearsome thickets.
Passage 30
राजतालीवनोद्घोषभयानकसुविस्तृतम्। दरीनिविष्टद्विगुणद्वीपिकुलनिनादितम्॥३०॥
Vast and terrifying, it resounded through groves of royal palms and with the cries of leopard packs lodged deep in its caves.
Passage 31
कुञ्जान्तरपरिव्याप्ततिमिरोधभयानकम्। शार्दूलनिहतानेकगजमुक्ताफलावृतम्॥३१॥
Its inner bowers were enveloped in frightening darkness, and pearls from many elephants slain by tigers lay scattered there.
Passage 32
रुधिराञ्चितशार्दूलनखराङ्कगणाङ्कितम्। जृम्भितास्यैः क्षुधाक्रान्तैः पलाशिभिरुपावृतम्॥३२॥
Bloodstained tiger-claw marks scored the forest, which was surrounded by hungry flesh-eaters yawning with open mouths.
Passage 33
श्येनसंदोहसंछन्नगिरिकन्दरमन्दिरम्। लोहितुण्डैर्महाकाकैर्व्याप्यमानं समन्ततः॥३३॥
Flocks of hawks covered its cavern dwellings, while huge red-beaked crows filled every quarter.
Passage 34
कृतकञ्चुकनिर्मोकैः कृष्णसर्पैः समावृतम्। दावानलज्वलद्वृक्षशुष्ककाननसेवितम्॥३४॥
Black snakes and the cast-off skins they had made covered it, and forest fires burned through its trees and dry woodland.
Passage 35
खर्जूरविटपिस्राविमदलेपनदुर्मदैः। हयारिभिः समाकीर्णं शृङ्गविस्तारभीषणम्॥३५॥
It swarmed with wild buffaloes, foes of horses, intoxicated by sap dripping from date-palms and terrifying with their spreading horns.
Passage 36
मार्जारकुलसंकीर्णं मत्तगोमायुसंकुलम्। ईदृशं ददृशुर्वीराः सरयूपुलिने वनम्॥३६॥
Filled with wild cats and packs of maddened jackals, such was the forest the warriors saw on the Sarayū’s bank.
Passage 37
पशूनां कदनं चक्रुर्दंष्ट्रिणां शृङ्गिणां तथा। आस्फोट्य सकला वीरा निपेतुर्निबिडे वने॥३७॥
Clapping their arms, all the warriors plunged into the dense forest and began slaughtering beasts armed with fangs and horns.
Passage 38
अथ शैलदरीकुञ्जान्निर्ययौ सुमहोद्धतः। वीरास्फोटकृतक्रोधो व्याघ्रोऽत्यन्तभयानकः॥३८॥
Then an exceedingly fierce tiger emerged from a mountain cave, enraged by the warriors’ challenges and terrible beyond measure.
Passage 39
मद्धन्ता परिस्फुरत्पुच्छगुच्छभीषणविग्रहः। जिह्वाललनभीमास्यस्तडित्पुञ्जनिभाकृतिः॥३९॥
Its dreadful body bore a violently twitching tufted tail; its mouth was terrifying with a lolling tongue, and its form resembled a mass of lightning.
Passage 40
दावानलचलन्नेत्रः प्रचण्डश्वासफूत्कृतः। महाशनिसुतीक्ष्णाग्रनखभीमप्रकोष्ठकः॥४०॥
Its eyes moved like wildfire and its fierce breath roared; its forelegs were fearsome with claws pointed more sharply than a mighty thunderbolt.
Passage 41
गिरिगण्डसमुत्तुङ्गः समुच्छलनपण्डितः। विकटैस्तिग्मकिरणैर्नखरैः क्षोदयन्भुवम्॥४१॥
Tall as a mountainside and expert in leaping, it tore the earth with monstrous claws that flashed fierce rays.
Passage 42
सुदृढाश्ममुखान्ताभ्यां मुञ्चञ्ज्वालाकणावलीम्। अत्युत्कटाङ्गगन्धेन जनानां दृष्टिमन्धयन्॥४२॥
From the sides of its rock-hard mouth it scattered a stream of fiery sparks, while the overpowering odor of its body blinded the men’s senses.
Passage 43
कुर्वन्गिरितटग्रावस्फोटैः कटकटारवम्। प्रकाशयन्दिशः सर्वास्तीक्ष्णदंष्ट्राङ्कुरत्विषा॥४३॥
It made a cracking roar as rocks burst from the mountainside and lit every direction with the gleam of its sharp, sprouting fangs.
Passage 44
ललाटपट्टसंलग्नभ्रुकुटीविकटाकृतिः। क्षुरसंतीक्ष्णमूर्ध्वाग्रं निर्धुन्वन्रोममण्डलम्॥४४॥
A monstrous frown pressed across its brow, while it shook a mane whose upright tips were sharp as razors.
Passage 45
जृम्भितास्यसुदुर्दर्शः क्रूरकर्मातिनिष्ठुरः। सेनाकोलाहलक्रुद्धो घूर्णयन्विकटे दृशौ॥४५॥
Horrible to behold with its yawning mouth, cruel in deed and utterly pitiless, it rolled its monstrous eyes in anger at the army’s tumult.
Passage 46
भासयन्वपुषा कुञ्जं काञ्चनद्युतिवर्धनः। त्रासयन्सकलान्वीरान्दृष्टिपातैर्भयानकैः॥४६॥
Its golden-radiant body illuminated the grove, while its dreadful glances terrified every warrior.
Passage 47
तमग्नियन्त्रैर्विशिखैश्च तीक्ष्णैः परश्वधैः शक्तिभिर्मुद्गरैश्च। जघ्नुः सर्वे वीरवराः समन्ताद्दूरे स्थिताः कृतशस्त्रास्त्रवर्षाः॥४७॥
Keeping their distance, all the foremost warriors rained weapons upon it—shots from fire-tubes, sharp arrows, axes, spears, and hammers.
Passage 48
तेषां शस्त्राणि चास्त्राणि यतमानानि भूरिशः। निजगाल मुखेनासौ फलानीव क्षुधातुरः॥४८॥
The tiger swallowed the many weapons and missiles hurled against it as a hungry creature swallows fruit.
Passage 49
तद्दृष्ट्वा सुमहच्चित्रमभूद्दाशरथे बले। सर्वे च भयसंत्रस्ता बभूवुः सैनिकाः जनाः॥४९॥
Daśaratha’s army was utterly astonished by this wonder, and all the soldiers became stricken with fear.
Passage 50
अथोत्प्लुत्य जवेनासौ पपात बलमध्यतः। कोष्ठानि पाटयामास नखैर्निर्भिद्य वेगवान्॥५०॥
Leaping swiftly into the army’s midst, the powerful tiger pierced the soldiers with its claws and ripped open their bellies.
Passage 51
आचक्राम बलात्कांश्चिद्वक्षसा समचूर्णयत्। चरणाभ्यां तथैवान्यानाक्रम्य समताडयत्॥५१॥
It trampled some by force and crushed them with its chest; it stamped upon and struck down others with its feet.
Passage 52
अग्रपादहताः केचिद्यसवः समशेरत। दंष्ट्राभिर्दारिताः केचित्केचिद्विदीर्णोदरा नखैः॥५२॥
Some lay lifeless, struck by its forepaws; some were torn by its fangs, while others had their bellies split by its claws.
Passage 53
निकृत्य कण्ठदेशेषु केषांचिद्रुधिरं पपौ। कांश्चिन्निपोथयामास देहभारेण भीषणः॥५३॥
It tore open some men’s throats and drank their blood; the dreadful beast crushed others beneath the weight of its body.
Passage 54
केषांचिल्लिलिहे रक्तं पाटयित्वोदरं रुषा। केषांचित्खण्डयामास चरणान्मूलदेशतः॥५४॥
Raging, it ripped open some bellies and lapped the blood; it severed other men’s legs at their roots.
Passage 55
केषांचिद्भुजसंछेदं चकार स्कन्धदेशतः। केषांचिदच्छिनद्ग्रीवां केषांचित्कर्णनासिकम्॥५५॥
It cut off some arms at the shoulders, severed some men’s necks, and tore away the ears and noses of others.
Passage 56
निर्ददार बलाद्वक्षः केषांचित्कवचावृतम्। यत्र यत्र पपातोच्चैस्ते ते भुवि निपोथिताः॥५६॥
It forcibly split the armor-covered chests of some, and wherever it sprang, the men there were dashed to the ground.
Passage 57
केषांचिन्नाभिदेशेषु केषांचिदुदरेषु च। केषांचिज्जङ्घातलेषु पाटयित्वासृजः पपौ॥५७॥
It tore some at the navel, others in the belly, and others along the lower legs, then drank their blood.
Passage 58
इत्यमेष क्षयं निन्ये सर्वं दाशरथं बलम्। पतमानानि चास्त्राणि शस्त्राणि च समन्ततः॥५८॥
Thus it brought Daśaratha’s entire force to ruin, even as weapons and missiles continued falling upon it from every side.
Passage 59
लाङ्गूलेनैव चिक्षेप विदीर्णास्येन जल्पिवान्। मुखोत्थश्वासवातेन कानिचित्प्रतिजघ्निवान्॥५९॥
It hurled some weapons away with its tail while roaring through its open mouth, and repelled others with the gale of breath issuing from its jaws.
Passage 60
विद्रुताः सैनिकाः सर्वे व्याघ्रस्य विपुलं बलम्। वीक्ष्य मारितशेषास्ते राज्ञोऽन्तिकमुपाययुः॥६०॥
The surviving soldiers fled after witnessing the tiger’s immense strength and returned to the king.
Passage 61
आचख्युः सकलं वृत्तं व्याघ्रस्य विपुलं बलम्। श्रुत्वा सुविस्मितो राजा बभूव किमिदं धिया॥६१॥
They related the entire event and the tiger’s vast power. Hearing it, the king was deeply astonished and wondered what this could mean.
Passage 62
रामचन्द्रस्तदाकर्ण्य निर्गतः सहलक्ष्मणः। धनुर्बाणौ समादाय विचिन्त्य हृदि कारणम्॥६२॥
When Rāmacandra heard, he departed with Lakṣmaṇa, taking up bow and arrows while considering the cause within his heart.
Passage 63
स गत्वा विपिनं घोरं यत्र गावो विनाशिताः। व्याघ्रेण घोररूपेण दुर्दर्शान्तरलक्ष्मणा॥६३॥
He entered the dreadful forest where the cows had been destroyed by the terrible-looking tiger, with Lakṣmaṇa close beside him.
Passage 64
स वीक्ष्य सहसा व्याघ्रं सटादुर्ध्वप्रेक्ष्यकन्धरम्। पश्यतो लक्ष्मणस्याग्रे शरेणैकेन जघ्निवान्॥६४॥
Suddenly seeing the tiger raise its maned neck, Rāma killed it with a single arrow before Lakṣmaṇa’s eyes.
Passage 65
स रामबाणसंस्पर्शात्सद्यो निर्धूतकल्मषः। वैयाघ्रं तनुमुत्सृज्य बभौ परमसुन्दरः॥६५॥
At the touch of Rāma’s arrow, its impurity was immediately removed. Casting off the tiger body, it appeared as an exceedingly beautiful person.
Passage 66
पद्मपत्रविशालाक्षो दिव्यगन्धानुलेपनः। दिव्यवस्त्रपरीधानो दिव्यस्रग्भूषणाञ्चितः॥६६॥
He had broad lotus-petal eyes, celestial fragrances upon his body, divine garments, garlands, and ornaments.
Passage 67
मुहुर्विद्योतयन्देहकान्तिभिः सकला दिशः। मुक्ताहाराभिरामेण वक्षसा विपुलौजसा॥६७॥
His bodily radiance repeatedly illuminated every direction, and his powerful chest was lovely with a necklace of pearls.
Passage 68
विराजमानो हेमाभविग्रहः सुस्मिताननः। सुनासः सुकपोलाढ्यः सुग्रीवः सुष्ठुमध्यकः॥६८॥
His golden form shone brilliantly; he had a smiling face, fine nose, beautiful cheeks, graceful neck, and well-shaped waist.
Passage 69
सुदर्शनः सुरूपाङ्गस्तरुणः शोभिताकृतिः। दिव्यं विमानमारुह्य स्थितो व्योम्नि महेन्द्रवत्॥६९॥
Handsome, youthful, and beautifully formed in every limb, he mounted a celestial aircraft and stood in the sky like Indra. The celestial man said:
Passage 70
दिव्यानुचरसंवीतो दिव्यस्त्रीगणसेवितः। अवरुह्य विमानाग्रात्पादयोर्निपपात ह॥७०॥
Surrounded by celestial attendants and served by heavenly women, he descended from the aircraft and fell at Rāma’s feet.
Passage 71
उत्थाय पुनरस्तोषीद्रामं सुन्दरविग्रहम्। लक्ष्मणेन युतं वीरं शापान्मुक्तिप्रदायकम्॥७१॥
Rising again, he praised beautiful Rāma, the hero accompanied by Lakṣmaṇa who had delivered him from the curse.
Passage 72
नमस्ते राघवेन्द्राय रघूणां प्रवराय च। रघुवंशमहेन्द्राय रघुकीर्तिविधायिने॥७२॥
Homage to you, lord of the Rāghavas, foremost of Raghu’s line, great Indra of the dynasty and establisher of its fame.
Passage 73
नमस्तपनवंशाब्धिपूर्णचन्द्रमसे विभो। तुभ्यं परमवीराय वीरेन्द्राय च ते नमः॥७३॥
Homage, mighty Lord, full moon of the ocean of the solar dynasty. Homage to you, supreme hero and lord of heroes.
Passage 74
नमस्त्रैलोक्यकल्याणनिधये पुरुषोत्तम। राजेन्द्रमुकुटाग्रस्थहीररुच्यङ्घ्रये च ते॥७४॥
Homage, Supreme Person and treasury of welfare for the three worlds, whose feet shine with jewels set upon the crowns of kings.
Passage 75
नमस्ते यौवराज्येन त्रैलोक्यसुखदायिने। हेमसिंहासनस्थाय सुधीभिः सेविताङ्घ्रये॥७५॥
Homage to you who, as crown prince, grant happiness to the three worlds, seated upon a golden throne with your feet served by the wise.
Passage 76
नमस्त्रैलोक्यदारिद्र्यहृतये कामधेनवे। चिन्तारत्नसमानाङ्घ्रिनखदीधितये च ते॥७६॥
Homage to the wish-fulfilling cow who removes the three worlds’ poverty, whose toenail rays resemble wish-granting gems.
Passage 77
मन्दारप्रसवामोदशालिसुन्दरकीर्तये। राजेन्द्रगणसेव्याय श्रीदाशरथये नमः॥७७॥
Homage to glorious Daśarathi, served by hosts of kings, whose lovely fame bears the fragrance of mandāra blossoms.
Passage 78
दरिद्रजननिस्तारकारणव्रतधारिणे। कल्पद्रुमाय साधूनां श्रीरामाय नमोऽस्तु ते॥७८॥
Homage to Śrī Rāma, wish-fulfilling tree for the good, whose vow is the cause of poor people’s deliverance.
Passage 79
सर्वमङ्गलरूपाय सर्वपापहरात्मने। सर्वतीर्थैकरूपाय श्रीरामाय नमोनमः॥७९॥
Repeated homage to Śrī Rāma, embodiment of every blessing, remover of every sin, and single form of all sacred places.
Passage 80
रामाय रामचन्द्राय रामभद्राय ते नमः। राघवेन्द्राय वीराय वीरेन्द्राय च ते नमः॥८०॥
Homage to Rāma, Rāmacandra, and Rāmabhadra; homage to the heroic lord of the Rāghavas and lord of heroes.
Passage 81
वामे जनकजा यस्य पुरतो लक्ष्मणः स्थितः। तद्वामे हनुमांश्चैव स रामः पातु मां सदा॥८१॥
May that Rāma always protect me—Janaka’s daughter stands on his left, Lakṣmaṇa before him, and Hanumān to Lakṣmaṇa’s left.
Passage 82
इति स्तुत्वा स गीतेन सर्ववश्यविधायिना। तोषयामास राजीवलोचनं रघुनन्दनम्॥८२॥
Praising him in this captivating song, the celestial man pleased lotus-eyed Raghu’s descendant.
Passage 83
कस्त्वमेवंविधोऽसीति पृष्टो रामेण तर्हि सः। उवाच मुखनादेन घोषयन्सकला दिशः॥८३॥
When Rāma asked, “Who are you, appearing in this form?” he replied in a voice that resounded through every direction.
Passage 84
गन्धर्वश्चिरसंशप्तो मुनिना मन्युकारिणा। नाम्ना चित्रध्वजोऽस्मीति प्रसिद्धः किन्नरालये॥८४॥
I am a gandharva long cursed by an angry sage. I am known by the name Citradhvaja in the celestial musicians’ realm.
Passage 85
कदाचिदलकापुर्याः सविधे स्नातुमाययौ। स्रोतस्यलकनन्दायाः सत्त्ववारणसेविते॥८५॥
Once I came near Alakā city to bathe in the current of the Alakanandā, a river frequented by noble elephants.
Passage 86
मुनिं व्याघ्रमुखं नाम यथानामस्वरूपकम्। विलोक्य मम हासश्च संजातोऽनर्थकारणम्॥८६॥
I saw the sage named Vyāghramukha, whose appearance matched his name, “Tiger Face,” and I laughed—the cause of my misfortune.
Passage 87
हसन्तं मां समालोक्य शशाप मुनिपुङ्गवः। अहो हससि दुर्बुद्धे मम वीक्ष्य मुखाकृतिम्॥८७॥
Seeing me laugh, the foremost sage cursed me: “Wretch, you laugh after seeing the shape of my face!
Passage 88
व्याघ्रो भवतु वै नाम भवानपि सुदुर्मतिः। ममातिक्रमजातेन पापेनानेन भूयसा॥८८॥
Through this grave sin of insulting me, may you, wicked one, become a tiger in truth as well as in name.
Passage 89
भक्षय त्वं वने सर्वान्पशून्विगतचेतनः। जाते रामावतारे तु मम शापाद्विमोक्ष्यसे॥८९॥
Bereft of reason, devour the animals of the forest. When Rāma descends, you shall be released from my curse.
Passage 90
रामबाणपरिस्पर्शात्सद्यो निर्धूतकल्मषः। गन्तासि स्वपदं भूयो नैवं शीलं पुनः कुरु॥९०॥
At the touch of Rāma’s arrow your impurity will immediately be removed and you will regain your station. Never behave in this way again.”
Passage 91
इत्यहं तेन मुनिना शप्तो दारुणशापिना। वैयाघ्रीं योनिमापद्य स्थितोऽत्र चिरकालतः॥९१॥
Thus cursed terribly by that sage, I entered a tiger’s birth and remained here for a long time.
Passage 92
इदानीं राम निर्मुक्तो जातोऽस्मि त्वदनुग्रहात्। तथापि मम चित्तस्य ग्लानिर्नैव निवर्तते॥९२॥
Rāma, by your grace I have now been released, yet the anguish of my heart does not depart.
Passage 93
अहो मया हता गावो मनुष्याश्च विनाशिताः। कां गतिं नु गमिष्यामि घोरकर्मकृदीदृशः॥९३॥
Alas, I killed cows and destroyed human beings. What destination can one who has committed such dreadful acts attain?
Passage 94
घोरस्य कर्मणो राम निष्कृतिर्नैव विद्यते। जन्मान्तरेऽपि तत्पापं भोक्ष्याम्येव न संशयः॥९४॥
Rāma, there is no expiation for this terrible deed. Without doubt I shall have to suffer its sin even in another birth.
Passage 95
इति संरूढहृदयग्लानिरस्मि सतां पते। शरीरमेतत्त्यक्ष्यामि प्रवेक्ष्यामि हुताशनम्॥९५॥
Lord of the good, this anguish has rooted itself in my heart. I shall abandon this body by entering fire. Śrī Rāma said:
Passage 96
मा ग्लासीर् हृदयेन त्वमधुना किन्नरोत्तम। मत्पादकमलस्पर्शात्तीर्णमेनोऽतिदारुणम्॥९६॥
Best of celestial musicians, do not despair in your heart. At the touch of my lotus feet your exceedingly dreadful sin has been crossed.
Passage 97
राक्षसा घोररूपाश्च संततं पिशिताशनाः। बहवो मत्पदाम्भोजस्पर्शान्मुक्तिमुपाययुः॥९७॥
Many fearsome, flesh-eating rākṣasas have attained liberation merely through the touch of my lotus feet.
Passage 98
मन्मन्त्रजाप्यपरमो मम ध्यानपरायणः। वसन्किंपुरुषे वर्षे भजमानोऽनिशं हि माम्॥९८॥
Dwell in the Kimpuruṣa region, devoted to repeating my mantra and absorbed in meditation upon me, worshiping me night and day.
Passage 99
वर्तस्व मम भक्त्येत्थं कर्मपाशं विनिर्दहन्। गन्तासि मम सायुज्यं तच्चित्रध्वज मा शुचः॥९९॥
Live in this devotion to me and burn away the bonds of action. Citradhvaja, you will attain union with me; do not grieve.
Passage 100
इत्यादिश्य स गन्धर्वं नाम्ना चित्रध्वजं तु तम्। उवाच लक्ष्मणं वीरो गते किन्नरयूथपे॥१००॥
After instructing the gandharva Citradhvaja, the hero spoke to Lakṣmaṇa when the chief of the celestial musicians had departed.
Passage 101
वैयाघ्रीं योनिमापन्नो गन्धर्वोऽयं निरीक्षितः। ब्राह्मणानां वने गावो यदनेन विनाशिताः॥१०१॥
We have seen that this gandharva entered a tiger’s birth and destroyed the brahmins’ cows in the forest.
Passage 102
तदर्थं क उपायोऽस्ति चिन्त्यतां लक्ष्मणाधुना। रुदन्ति ब्राह्मणा दुःखात्तेषां दुःखं न नाशितम्॥१०२॥
Lakṣmaṇa, consider what remedy exists. The brahmins still weep in grief, and their suffering has not been removed. Lakṣmaṇa said:
Passage 103
गावः कालवशं याता व्याघ्रेण खलु भक्षिताः। तासां स्थाने गोसहस्रं ब्राह्मणेभ्यः प्रदीयताम्॥१०३॥
The cows have come under death’s power and were eaten by the tiger. Let a thousand cows be given to the brahmins in their place.
Passage 104
ततो विप्रान्समाहूय गोदानाय प्रतिश्रुतम्। ब्राह्मणा नोररीचक्रुस्तासामर्थे सुदुःखिताः॥१०४॥
The brahmins were summoned and offered the gift of cows, but grieving intensely for their own animals, they would not accept it. The brahmins said:
Passage 105
गोभिस्त्वया प्रदत्ताभिः किं वयं करवाम भोः। यदि शक्तोऽसि ता एव समानय पुनः प्रभो॥१०५॥
Lord, what shall we do with other cows given by you? If you are able, bring those very cows back again.
Passage 106
ततो रामोऽनुजं वीक्ष्य प्रोवाच वचनं स्मयन्। एहि लक्ष्मण गच्छावो गवां नयनहेतवे॥१०६॥
Rāma looked at his younger brother and said with a smile, “Come, Lakṣmaṇa; let us go to bring the cows back.”
Passage 107
यमस्य नगरीं यत्र प्रेतानामस्ति संस्थितिः। ब्राह्मणानां मनोदुःखं नान्यथा खलु नङ्क्ष्यति॥१०७॥
We shall go to Yama’s city, where the dead reside; otherwise the sorrow in the brahmins’ hearts will not disappear.
Passage 108
ततो रथं समारुह्य लक्ष्मणो यत्र सारथिः। ययौ संयमिनीं घोरां यमस्य नगरीं हरिः॥१०८॥
Hari mounted a chariot with Lakṣmaṇa as charioteer and traveled to dreadful Saṃyamanī, the city of Yama.
Passage 109
गत्वा परिसरे तस्या वादयामास राघवः। पाञ्चजन्यं निजं शङ्खं सर्वप्रेतविमुक्तिदम्॥१०९॥
Arriving at its outskirts, Rāghava sounded his conch Pāñcajanya, which grants release to all departed beings.
Passage 110
श्रुत्वा शङ्खरवं रम्यं देवो वैवस्वतः पुरात्। तूर्णं विनिर्ययौ हर्षात्श्रीरामदर्शनोत्सुकः॥११०॥
Hearing the lovely conch blast, Vaivasvata hurried joyfully from his city, eager to behold Śrī Rāma.
Passage 111
दूरादेव रथोपस्थे संस्थितं रघुपुङ्गवम्। समचष्ट परं भाग्यं मन्यमानो रवेः सुतः॥१११॥
From afar the sun’s son saw Raghu’s foremost descendant standing upon the chariot and considered himself supremely fortunate.
Passage 112
यमः सविधमभ्येत्य रामस्य सुमहात्मनः। ववन्दे चरणाम्भोजं लक्ष्मणस्य च धीमतः॥११२॥
Yama approached greatly exalted Rāma and bowed to his lotus feet and to those of wise Lakṣmaṇa. Yama said:
Passage 113
अद्य मे सफलं जन्म श्रीराम तव दर्शनात्। अहो अनुगृहीतोऽहं भवताद्य दयानिधे॥११३॥
Śrī Rāma, my birth has become fruitful today through seeing you. Ocean of compassion, you have bestowed your grace upon me.
Passage 114
अद्य मे विपुलं भाग्यं प्रेतमण्डलवासिनः। सकुटुम्बः कृतार्थोऽहं भवतोऽनुग्रहात्प्रभो॥११४॥
Though I dwell among the hosts of the dead, today my fortune is immense. Lord, by your grace my entire household has attained fulfillment.
Passage 115
नमः कमलकिञ्जल्कपीतकौशेयवाससे। साक्षाल्लक्ष्मीकलत्राय रामाय करुणाब्धये॥११५॥
Homage to compassionate Rāma, husband of Lakṣmī herself, clothed in yellow silk the color of lotus filaments.
Passage 116
उभाभ्यां विश्ववन्द्याभ्यां वीराभ्यां भुवनत्रयम्। भवद्भ्यां सम्प्रमुदितं गुणान्गायति नित्यशः॥११६॥
The three worlds rejoice in you two heroes, worshiped by the universe, and continually sing your virtues.
Passage 117
जानेऽहं पुण्डरीकाक्ष युवां वै पुरुषोत्तमौ। अवतीर्णौ रवेर्वंशे श्रीमन्तौ वै परात्परौ॥११७॥
Lotus-eyed Lord, I know that you two are supreme persons, glorious ones beyond the highest who have descended in the solar dynasty.
Passage 118
अयं स शेषो निगमत्रयात्मा विश्वम्भरा येन धृता निजाज्ञया। सहस्रदीव्यत्फणमण्डलस्फुरन्महामणिद्योतविभासिताकृतिः॥११८॥
This is Śeṣa, embodiment of the three Vedas, who bears the earth by your command, his form illumined by great jewels upon a thousand shining hoods.
Passage 119
त्वं रामचन्द्रः कमलाकलत्रः साकेतवासी नवमेघवर्णः। पीताम्बरोल्लासिमनोज्ञविग्रहो धनुर्धरः कामपरार्धसुन्दरः॥११९॥
You are Rāmacandra, husband of Lakṣmī and resident of Sāketa, dark as a fresh cloud, your charming form radiant in yellow cloth, bearing a bow and more beautiful than countless Loves.
Passage 120
आजन्म रमणीयानि चरित्राणि तवाच्युत। गायन्ति त्रिदिवे देवा विमानाग्रेषु संस्थिताः॥१२०॥
Acyuta, the gods standing upon their celestial aircraft sing of your beautiful deeds from the moment of your birth.
Passage 121
रोमाञ्चितवपुष्मन्तः प्रमोदपरिपूरिताः। भक्तिप्रकर्षसम्पन्ना जयरामेति भाषिणः॥१२१॥
Their bodies thrill with horripilation, their hearts overflow with joy, and filled with the highest devotion they proclaim, “Victory to Rāma!”
Passage 122
भूभारहरणारम्भः कृत एव त्वया प्रभो। ताडका नाशिता यस्मात्सुबाहुश्च विनाशितः॥१२२॥
Lord, you have already begun removing the earth’s burden, for Tāṭakā and Subāhu have been destroyed.
Passage 123
एवं हरिष्यति भवान्रावणादीनपि प्रभो। इति विज्ञाय देवानां भवति विपुला मुदः॥१२३॥
Lord, knowing that you will likewise remove Rāvaṇa and the others, the gods experience immense joy.
Passage 124
इति स्तुतिमुदीर्यासावानिनाय निकेतनम्। उभौ तौ वीरशार्दूलौ श्रीमन्तौ रामलक्ष्मणौ॥१२४॥
Having offered this praise, Yama brought the two glorious tiger-like heroes, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, into his dwelling.
Passage 125
तयोर्दर्शनमात्रेण तत्रत्यं प्रेतमण्डलम्। कृतार्थीभूय संगमात्स्वर्गं पुण्यवतां सुखम्॥१२५॥
Merely by seeing the two brothers, the hosts of dead there attained fulfillment and went to the blissful heaven of the meritorious.
Passage 126
ततस्तौ पूजयामास पाद्यार्घ्यादिसपर्यया। कृतार्थं मन्यमानः स्वं वैवस्वत उदारधीः॥१२६॥
Noble-minded Vaivasvata considered himself fulfilled and worshiped them with water for their feet, an offering of honor, and the other rites.
Passage 127
अवसाने सपर्याया रामः स्मितमुखाम्बुजः। वैवस्वतमुवाचेदं मेघगम्भीरया गिरा॥१२७॥
At the worship’s conclusion, lotus-faced Rāma smiled and addressed Vaivasvata in a voice deep as a cloud. Śrī Rāma said:
Passage 128
ब्राह्मणानां शुभा गावो व्याघ्रेण खलु भक्षिताः। प्रत्यानैतुमहं ता वै सम्प्राप्तोऽस्मि तवालये॥१२८॥
A tiger devoured the brahmins’ excellent cows. I have come to your abode to take those very cows back. Yama said:
Passage 129
अयोध्यावासिनो ये वै नरा गावः खगा मृगाः। न तेषामिह सम्प्राप्तिर्मम दूतैर्विधीयते॥१२९॥
Neither people nor cows, birds, or beasts dwelling in Ayodhyā are brought here by my messengers.
Passage 130
स्वर्गे गच्छन्ति भूतानि साकेतपुरवासतः। काकाः श्वापदचाण्डाला अधमाः पापयोनयः॥१३०॥
Creatures dwelling in Sāketa go directly to heaven—even crows, wild animals, outcastes, the lowly, and those born in sinful conditions.
Passage 131
सरयूवातसंस्पृष्टा मुच्यन्ते सर्वपातकैः। ब्रह्महत्यादिभिश्चापि किमुतान्यैर्जगत्पते॥१३१॥
Touched by the Sarayū’s breeze, they are freed even from sins such as killing a brahmin; what need be said of lesser sins, lord of the world?
Passage 132
न ते चरणपाथोजपरागैः समलङ्कृते। देशे चरन्ति मद्दूता आनेतुं पापिनोऽपि हि॥१३२॥
My messengers do not roam even to fetch sinners in the land adorned by pollen from your lotus feet.
Passage 133
अयोध्यायाः परितो राम योजनानां चतुष्टयम्। सुदर्शनं भवच्चक्रं भ्रमतीव हि दृश्यते॥१३३॥
Rāma, for four yojanas around Ayodhyā your Sudarśana discus can be seen circling in protection.
Passage 134
तस्यां नगर्यां न विशन्ति घोरा मदीयदूता न कलेशदोषाः। नान्ये तथा भूतगणा भयानका विनायका यक्षवेतालकाद्याः॥१३४॥
My terrible messengers cannot enter that city, nor can affliction or evil, nor fearsome spirits such as obstructors, yakṣas, and vetālas.
Passage 135
अयोध्यायाः परितः पुण्यभूमिः प्रमोदनामा वनराजिर्यत्र। तद्देवता दुःसहवेत्रहस्ता सत्त्वान्प्रवेष्टुं न ददाति घोरान्॥१३५॥
Around Ayodhyā lies the sacred land and forest called Pramoda. Its presiding deity, bearing an irresistible staff, permits no dreadful being to enter.
Passage 136
प्रमोदवनवातेन दूरादेवापसारिताः। न प्रवेशं लभन्ते च विघ्नानां चापि कोटयः॥१३६॥
The wind from Pramoda forest drives them away from afar; even millions of obstacles gain no entrance.
Passage 137
भूतप्रेतपिशाचाद्या जम्भका राक्षसादयः। कूष्माण्डवेतालगणा ये चान्ये त्रासका गणाः॥१३७॥
Ghosts, departed spirits, piśācas, jambhakas, rākṣasas, kūṣmāṇḍas, vetālas, and every other terrifying host remain outside.
Passage 138
डाकिनीपूतनाद्याश्च नोपसर्पन्ति तत्र वै। यत्रासाथे धनुष्पाणी भवन्तौ रामलक्ष्मणौ॥१३८॥
Ḍākinīs, pūtanās, and similar beings cannot approach the place where you, Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa, stand bearing bows.
Passage 139
रामेति ध्वनिमात्रेण लक्ष्मणेति च नामतः। मम दूताः कृतास्तत्र पलायनपरायणाः॥१३९॥
The mere sound “Rāma” and the name “Lakṣmaṇa” make my messengers there intent only upon fleeing.
Passage 140
सरयूपयसा पूता अयोध्यारजसाप्लुताः। पापिनोऽपि नराः स्वर्गं प्रयान्तीति न संशयः॥१४०॥
Purified by the Sarayū’s water and covered with Ayodhyā’s dust, even sinners go to heaven—of this there is no doubt.
Passage 141
निशम्य भगवान्राम इत्थं तद्यमभाषितम्। चेतसा चिन्तयामास क्व नु गावो गता इति॥१४१॥
Hearing Yama’s words, blessed Rāma considered within his heart where the cows could have gone.
Passage 142
स गोलोके विनिश्चित्य तासां खलु गवां स्थितिम्। लक्ष्मणं प्रेषयामास स्वयमास यमालये॥१४२॥
Determining that the cows were in Goloka, he sent Lakṣmaṇa there while remaining himself in Yama’s abode.
Passage 143
रामेणाज्ञप्त एवासौ लक्ष्मणः कृतलक्षणः। गोलोकं प्रययौ तूर्णं सुरभीकुलमण्डितम्॥१४३॥
Commanded by Rāma, auspicious Lakṣmaṇa swiftly went to Goloka, adorned by herds of Surabhi’s descendants.
Passage 144
घटोध्नीभिः सौरभेयीवराभिर्गोभिर्व्याप्तं सिच्यमानं समन्तात्। वत्सप्रीतिप्रस्तुतैः सौरभाढ्यैः पीयूषवर्णैः शीतलैस्तत्पयोभिः॥१४४॥
Excellent fragrant cows with jar-like udders filled that realm, bathing it in cool, nectar-colored, sweet-smelling milk released through love for their calves.
Passage 145
आनन्दौघसमुल्लासिगोपगोपीजनाकुलम्। गवां हुम्भारवोद्दृष्टं पूर्यमाणं च वेणुभिः॥१४५॥
Cowherd men and women surged there in floods of joy; cows’ lowing rose all around, and flutes filled the air.
Passage 146
इतस्ततः कूर्दमानपीतवत्सकदम्बकम्। मत्तैः सुविस्फूर्जद्भिः प्रमत्तवृषभैर्वृतम्॥१४६॥
Groups of well-fed calves leapt here and there, and the realm was surrounded by powerful, bellowing bulls.
Passage 147
ककुद्मतां बलीवर्दवराणां प्रकरैः सदा। पात्यमानतटप्रान्तवनभूमिविराजितम्॥१४७॥
It shone with woodland along the banks where hosts of superb humped bulls continually pressed and broke the ground.
Passage 148
कालिन्दीकन्यकावीचिसङ्गिमारुतसेवितम्। गोवर्धनगिरिप्रोद्यन्महाशृङ्गमनोहरम्॥१४८॥
Breezes touching the waves of Yamunā served it, and the great rising peaks of Govardhana mountain made it enchanting.
Passage 149
तत्र वृन्दावनं नाम समपश्यद्वनं च सः। राधावनं कृष्णवनं बलभद्रवनं तथा॥१४९॥
There Lakṣmaṇa saw the forest named Vṛndāvana, as well as Rādhā’s forest, Kṛṣṇa’s forest, and Balabhadra’s forest.
Passage 150
व्यलोकयद्व्रजभुवं मधुरां चात्र मध्यगाम्। वृन्दावनबृहद्वनप्रमुखैर्विपिनैर्वृताम्॥१५०॥
He beheld the sweet land of Vraja at the center, surrounded by Vṛndāvana, Bṛhadvana, and the other principal woods.
Passage 151
हेमरत्नमयीं दिव्यां कुञ्जपुञ्जमनोरमाम्। श्रीमन्नन्दव्रजेन्द्रेण पाल्यमानां समन्ततः॥१५१॥
Divine and formed of gold and jewels, delightful with clusters of bowers, it was protected throughout by glorious Nanda, king of Vraja.
Passage 152
श्रीयशोदानन्दपत्नीव्रजज्ञोगानपरायणैः। गोपालिकागणैर्जुष्टां पुण्यवातनिषेविताम्॥१५२॥
It was frequented by groups of cowherd women devoted to singing the glory of blessed Yaśodā and Nanda, and served by sanctifying breezes.
Passage 153
दधिमन्थानघोषेण समन्ताच्च निनादिताम्। रोहिणीसुतसानन्दक्रीडाभाजनतां गताम्॥१५३॥
The sound of churning yogurt resounded everywhere; the land had become a field for the joyful play of Rohiṇī’s son.
Passage 154
तत्रापश्यदसौ रामं नीलमेघमनोहरम्। बलभद्रेण सहितं गोपालं सखिभिर्वृतम्॥१५४॥
There he saw dark-cloud-hued Rāma in the form of a cowherd, accompanied by Balabhadra and surrounded by friends.
Passage 155
पालयन्तं नन्दधेनूर्वनमालामनोहरम्। कृष्णं कमलपत्राक्षं राधाप्रेमविधारितम्॥१५५॥
He saw lotus-eyed Kṛṣṇa tending Nanda’s cows, charming in a forest garland and wholly held by Rādhā’s love.
Passage 156
अनङ्गबाणव्यथितं गोपीप्रेमैकभाजनम्। गोपालिकासहस्रस्य दृक्कटाक्षैर्विराजितम्॥१५६॥
Pierced by Love’s arrows, he was the sole vessel of the cowherd women’s love and shone beneath the sidelong glances of thousands of gopīs.
Passage 157
वृन्दावनपरिसरे चारयन्तं गवां कुलम्। वेणुं मुखेन खेलन्तं किशोरं केलिकोविदम्॥१५७॥
The youthful master of play grazed the herds around Vṛndāvana while sporting with a flute at his lips.
Passage 158
तं दृष्ट्वा लक्ष्मणोऽत्यर्थं निजे हृदि विसिस्मये। अहो रामस्य माधुर्यं साक्षादाकलितं मया॥१५८॥
Seeing him, Lakṣmaṇa marveled profoundly within his heart: “I have directly encountered Rāma’s sweetness!
Passage 159
अहो लोकस्य महिमा अहो अत्र सतां नृणाम्। सौभाग्यं च सुखं चैव प्रेम चातिशयोद्भवम्॥१५९॥
How glorious is this realm! How extraordinary are the fortune, happiness, and abounding love of the good people here!
Passage 160
अहो अमुष्य पुरुषोत्तमस्य रामस्यांशो यश्चापीह लोके। पश्यामि यस्यात्र कटाक्षपातैरुन्मत्तवद्भाति मनो वधूनाम्॥१६०॥
Here I behold an aspect of Rāma, the Supreme Person, whose sidelong glances make the young women’s minds appear intoxicated.
Passage 161
अहो निसर्गो मधुरिम्ण एष यद्दृष्टमात्रो मदयत्यन्तरं मे। परार्धकन्दर्पविजेत्रकस्य माधुर्यसारं किमहं वर्णयामि॥१६१॥
Such is the nature of this sweetness that merely seeing him intoxicates my heart. How can I describe the concentrated sweetness that defeats countless gods of love?
Passage 162
अहो अमीषां किमु भाग्यसिन्धोः समुद्गतः शारदपूर्णचन्द्रः। रामस्यासौ सम्प्रविभाति नित्यं किशोरमूर्तिर्मधुरापाङ्गवीक्ष्यः॥१६२॥
From the ocean of these people’s fortune a full autumn moon has risen: this eternal youthful form of Rāma, lovely to behold with sweet sidelong glances.
Passage 163
इति सचकितचेता वर्णयन्कान्तिपुञ्जं स्थगित इव बभूव प्रेमपीयूषपूर्णः। तमलपत रामो दिव्यगोपालवेषः किमपि ननु विधाय स्वागतादीन्विविक्ते॥१६३॥
As Lakṣmaṇa described that mass of beauty, his awestruck mind became motionless and filled with love’s nectar. Rāma in divine cowherd dress welcomed him apart from the others and spoke. Kṛṣṇa said:
Passage 164
अपि ननु कुशली नस्तात आश्चर्यवृत्तो दशरथनृपमौलिः सौष्ठवौदार्यसिन्धुः। अपि च खलु जनन्या नाम कौशल्यया मे समधिगतपुमर्थाः किं नु लब्धाः श्रियस्ताः॥१६४॥
Is our father, King Daśaratha—ocean of excellence and generosity—well? And has my mother Kauśalyā attained every human goal and all the prosperity she seeks?
Passage 165
स हि ननु वसुदेवो यादवानां वरेण्यः किमपि जयति पत्नी तस्य सा देवकीर्तिः। असुरबलसमूहैः पीड्यमानां विलोक्य क्षितिमहमनयोर्वै द्वापरान्ते भवामि॥१६५॥
Here the foremost Yādava Vasudeva flourishes with his renowned wife Devakī. Seeing the earth tormented by hosts of demons, I shall appear through these two at the end of Dvāpara.
Passage 166
कृतभरमधुनापि प्रोद्धतै रावणाद्यैर्जगदिदमवलोक्य प्रादुरासं रवेर्वंशे। कृतमतिरवतीर्णो रामनामाभिरामश्चतसृभिरपि युक्तो मूर्तिभिः स्वाभिरुच्चैः॥१६६॥
Seeing the world burdened now by arrogant Rāvaṇa and his kind, I have appeared in the solar dynasty, delighting in the name Rāma and accompanied by my four exalted manifestations.
Passage 167
इत्यालपितमाकर्ण्य लक्ष्मणो भ्रातृपूजितम्। उवाच वदतां श्रेष्ठो रूपमाधुर्यमोहितः॥१६७॥
Hearing these words from the one revered as his brother, eloquent Lakṣmaṇa, captivated by the sweetness of his form, replied. Lakṣmaṇa said:
Passage 168
कुशली रघुराजोऽसौ पिता दशरथस्तव। आप्तकामा च कौशल्या त्रैलोक्यश्रीभिरालये॥१६८॥
Your father, Raghu’s king Daśaratha, is well, and Kauśalyā dwells in the palace with every wish fulfilled and the splendor of the three worlds.
Passage 169
त्वमेवाखिललीलाभिः क्रीडसे राम सुन्दर। अशेषपुरुषार्थानां परां सीमानमुद्वहन्॥१६९॥
Beautiful Rāma, you alone sport through all these divine plays while bearing the supreme limit of every human goal.
Passage 170
न ते व्यक्तिं विदन्त्यन्ये ये देवासुरमानुषाः। त्वमेव स्वात्मनात्मानं रमयन्राम खेलसि॥१७०॥
Gods, demons, and humans do not know your true manifestation. Rāma, you alone sport by delighting yourself through your own being.
Passage 171
भक्तानां करुणाहेतोर्दर्शयस्यात्मविग्रहम्। चिदानन्दमयं साक्षाद्ब्रह्मणोऽप्याश्रयं तु यत्॥१७१॥
Out of compassion for devotees you reveal your own form, composed directly of consciousness and bliss and serving as the ground even of Brahman.
Passage 172
मोहयस्यात्मनो मायां वितत्य जगदीशितुः। यया मोहितचित्तानां दुर्लभा व्यक्तिरीदृशी॥१७२॥
Lord of the universe, you extend your own māyā and bewilder beings; to minds deluded by it, a manifestation such as this is exceedingly rare.
Passage 173
तव लीला रसानन्दमयी सर्वमनोहरा। वसुदेवालये वापि श्रीमद्दशरथालये॥१७३॥
Your divine play is formed of the bliss of rasa and enchants every mind, whether in Vasudeva’s house or glorious Daśaratha’s house.
Passage 174
नन्दालये वा सुखितालये वा यशोदया वापि सुमङ्गलया वा। विराजसे लाल्यमानो नितान्तमजस्रकेलीरसमोदमग्नः॥१७४॥
Whether in Nanda’s happy dwelling, cherished by Yaśodā or another blessed mother, you shine immersed in the delight of ceaseless playful rasa.
Passage 175
श्रूयतां मम विज्ञप्तिस्ततः परमसुन्दर। प्रेषितोऽहं मम भ्रात्रा रामेण पुरुषर्षभ॥१७५॥
Now hear my request, supremely beautiful one. Best of persons, my brother Rāma has sent me here.
Passage 176
त्वं चात्र तादृशो देव रामस्यांशो विलोकितः। युवां वै युवयोस्तत्त्वं जानीथो नापरो जनः॥१७६॥
Here I have seen you, divine one, as just such a manifestation of Rāma. You two alone know the truth of yourselves; no other person does.
Passage 177
स्वकार्य मेव भृत्येन साधनीयं विशेषतः। प्रभुकृत्यं परं कार्यं प्रभूणां सेवकोऽस्म्यहम्॥१७७॥
A servant must especially fulfill the task entrusted to him. His master’s business is the highest duty, and I am the servant of my lords.
Passage 178
स्वकार्यं साधयिष्यामि यदर्थं प्रेषितोऽस्म्यहम्। कश्चिद्गन्धर्ववर्यो वै मुनिशापविमोहितः॥१७८॥
I shall accomplish the work for which I was sent. A certain eminent gandharva, bewildered by a sage’s curse—
Passage 179
वैयाघ्रीं योनिमापद्य रामराज्ये द्विजन्मनाम्। गाश्च वै भक्षयामास रुरुदुस्ते ततो द्विजाः॥१७९॥
—entered a tiger’s birth and devoured the brahmins’ cows in Rāma’s kingdom; therefore those brahmins wept.
Passage 180
रामस्य द्वारमागत्य ततश्चुक्रोध राघवः। निहतः स तु शार्दूलो महाबलपराक्रमः॥१८०॥
They came to Rāma’s gate, whereupon Rāghava grew angry and killed that tiger of immense strength and prowess.
Passage 181
रामेण बाणेनैकेन बहवो येन नाशिताः। राज्ञा तु प्रेषिता वीराः कुर्वन्तोऽपि पराक्रमम्॥१८१॥
Rāma killed it with one arrow, though that tiger had destroyed many warriors sent by the king despite their valor.
Passage 182
मोचितः स च वैयाघ्र्या योनेर्गन्धर्वपुङ्गवः। पश्यतो मे दिवं यातो दिव्यं यानमधिष्ठितः॥१८२॥
Released from the tiger birth, that foremost gandharva mounted a celestial vehicle and ascended to heaven before my eyes.
Passage 183
ततः सहस्रशो गावो द्विजन्मभ्यः प्रतिश्रुताः। तासामेव गवामर्थे रामेणाक्लिष्टकर्मणा॥१८३॥
Unwearied Rāma then promised thousands of cows to the brahmins, but they sought only their own cows.
Passage 184
ब्राह्मणानां गवामर्थं याचितो विनयानतः। यमः प्रोवाच भगवन्नात्र ब्राह्मणधेनवः॥१८४॥
When respectfully asked for the brahmins’ cows, Yama said, “Lord, the brahmins’ cows are not here.
Passage 185
अयोध्यायां मृताञ्जन्तून्मम दूताः स्पृशन्ति न। क्षणं विचिन्त्य रामेण प्रेषितोऽहमिहागतः॥१८५॥
My messengers do not touch beings who die in Ayodhyā.” After reflecting for a moment, Rāma sent me here.
Passage 186
त्वं प्रयच्छ शुभा धेनूर्ब्राह्मणानामिहागताः। श्रुत्वेत्थं भगवान्कृष्णो वचनं लक्ष्मणोदितम्॥१८६॥
Please give me the excellent cows of the brahmins that have come here. Blessed Kṛṣṇa heard this request spoken by Lakṣmaṇa.
Passage 187
प्रत्युवाच रदोद्योतैर्द्योतयन्हरितो वने। सत्यमत्रागता गावो नन्दराजस्य वै व्रजे॥१८७॥
Illuminating the forest quarters with the gleam of his teeth, Kṛṣṇa replied, “It is true that the cows came here to King Nanda’s Vraja.
Passage 188
रामाज्ञातः पुनर्नेया न कश्चिन्न प्रतिगच्छति। नरो वा किन्नरो वापि पशुर्वा विहगोऽपि वा॥१८८॥
At Rāma’s command they must be taken back. No person, kinnara, animal, or bird can refuse to return.
Passage 189
प्रबला रामचन्द्राज्ञा नयेमास्तेन लक्ष्मण। ततः सुसत्कृतस्तेन लक्ष्मणो नन्दसूनुना॥१८९॥
Rāmacandra’s command is irresistible, Lakṣmaṇa; therefore take them.” Nanda’s son then honored Lakṣmaṇa warmly.
Passage 190
विप्राणां गाः पुरस्कृत्य पुनरागाद्यमालयम्। यत्र प्रतीक्षमाणेन रामेण स्थीयते स्वयम्॥१९०॥
Leading the brahmins’ cows, Lakṣmaṇa returned to Yama’s abode, where Rāma himself waited.
Passage 191
मार्गे सुसङ्गतास्तस्य देवास्त्रिदिववासिनः। आनर्चुः पुष्पवर्षेण पाद्यार्घ्याचमनादिभिः॥१९१॥
Along the way the heaven-dwelling gods assembled to worship him with showers of flowers, water for the feet, offerings, and water for sipping.
Passage 192
गायन्तो विपुलां कीर्तिं जय रामेति चोज्जगुः। अकर्तुमन्यथाकर्तुं क्षमते भगवान्प्रभुः॥१९२॥
Singing his vast glory, they cried, “Victory to Rāma! The blessed Lord can leave a thing undone or make it otherwise.
Passage 193
व्याघ्रेण भक्षिता गावो नीयन्ते भूतलं पुनः। रामाज्ञा प्रबला तस्मात्त्रैलोक्येऽपि न संशयः॥१९३॥
Cows devoured by a tiger are being returned to earth. Rāma’s command is irresistible throughout the three worlds—there is no doubt.”
Passage 194
इत्थं निगदतां स्वर्गे देवानां कीर्तिगायिनाम्। शृण्वन्सुविपुलं घोषं लक्ष्मणः पुनराययौ॥१९४॥
Hearing the great proclamation of the gods in heaven as they sang Rāma’s fame, Lakṣmaṇa continued his return.
Passage 195
यमस्य नगरीं यत्र रामचन्द्रः प्रतिष्ठितः। आगतं लक्ष्मणं वीक्ष्य रामः प्रीतमना अभूत्॥१९५॥
He reached Yama’s city, where Rāmacandra remained. Seeing Lakṣmaṇa arrive, Rāma was delighted.
Passage 196
ततस्तौ यममामन्त्र्य पूजितौ तेन सत्कृतौ। दिव्यं रथं समारुह्य पुरस्कृत्य गवां कुलम्॥१९६॥
The two took leave of Yama after receiving his worship and honor, mounted their divine chariot, and set the herd of cows before them.
Passage 197
संस्तुतौ जयशब्देन देवैराकाशसंस्थितैः। साकेतनगरीं रम्यां तत्क्षणे समलङ्कृताम्॥१९७॥
Praised with cries of victory by gods standing in the sky, they approached lovely Sāketa city, decorated at that very moment.
Passage 198
कुतूहलसुसम्पन्नरथावर्तैरितस्ततः। नरनारीगणैः कीर्णां चित्रध्वजविराजिताम्॥१९८॥
The city bustled with eager processions on every side, thronged by men and women and shining with colorful banners.
Passage 199
नादितां ब्रह्मघोषेण दिव्यधूपैः सुधूपिताम्। आनन्दभरसम्पन्नां सिच्यमानामितस्ततः॥१९९॥
Vedic recitation resounded through it and celestial incense perfumed it; overflowing with joy, its streets were sprinkled everywhere.
Passage 200
सुगन्धितोयसंदोहैर्वैकुण्ठादपि शोभिताम्। भूषिताट्टापणगृहां समलङ्कृतगोपुराम्॥२००॥
Streams of fragrant water made it shine more beautifully than Vaikuṇṭha; its mansions, markets, houses, and gateways were adorned.
Passage 201
नादितां कीर्तिघोषेण सूतमागधवन्दिभिः। प्रसन्नहृदयैर्लोकैराकीर्णां शुभमङ्गलाम्॥२०१॥
Heralds, bards, and panegyrists filled it with proclamations of fame, while joyful people crowded the blessed, auspicious city.
Passage 202
गजदानद्रवोद्रेकसिक्तराजपथाङ्गणाम्। नारीगणसमारब्धमङ्गलोद्गीतमञ्जुलाम्॥२०२॥
Elephants’ flowing ichor moistened the royal roads and courtyards, and songs of blessing begun by groups of women made the city lovely.
Passage 203
समन्ताज्जयघोषेण पूर्यमाणदिगन्तराम्। नवानन्दोत्साहसम्पन्नां साश्चर्यजनकाहलाम्॥२०३॥
Cries of victory filled every horizon. Fresh joy and enthusiasm pervaded the city, whose people raised a tumult of wonder.
Passage 204
एवंविधां विविशतुर्वीरेन्द्रौ रामलक्ष्मणौ। ततो दशरथः प्रीतः पुत्रयोर्वीरवर्तयोः॥२०४॥
The two heroic lords Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa entered the city in this condition. Daśaratha rejoiced at his sons’ heroic conduct.
Passage 205
पराक्रमेण महता त्रैलोक्याश्चर्यहेतुना। साश्चर्यं तौ समालिङ्ग्य पुत्रस्नेहपरिप्लुतः॥२०५॥
Overwhelmed by fatherly love and wonder at their mighty prowess, which amazed the three worlds, he embraced them both.
Passage 206
आनन्दनिर्भरो भूत्वा तस्थौ स्तिमितलोचनः। निनायान्तःपुरे तौ च भ्रातरौ रामलक्ष्मणौ॥२०६॥
Filled completely with joy, he stood with motionless eyes and then led the brothers Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa into the inner palace.
Passage 207
मातरस्तौ समालिङ्ग्य कौशल्याद्याः समुत्सुकाः। अवापुः परमां प्रीतिं विस्मयं च विशेषतः॥२०७॥
Kauśalyā and the other eager mothers embraced them and attained supreme delight along with extraordinary wonder.
Passage 208
मृता गावः समानीता इतिवृत्तं परस्परम्। कथयन्त्योऽवरोधस्थाः स्त्रियः साश्चर्यमानसाः॥२०८॥
The women of the inner apartments told one another, their minds full of wonder, how the dead cows had been brought back.
Passage 209
जगदुस्तत्र रामस्य कीर्तिमेताममानुषीम्। अथ रामं निजं पुत्रं कौशल्या विश्वमङ्गलम्॥२०९॥
They proclaimed this superhuman glory of Rāma. Then Kauśalyā turned to her son Rāma, the blessing of the universe.
Passage 210
नीराजयामास मुदा स्नेहव्यग्रमनास्तदा। मणिमाणिक्यरत्नानि मुक्ताहेमशतानि च॥२१०॥
Her mind overflowing with love, she joyfully performed an auspicious waving of lights, offering jewels, rubies, gems, pearls, and heaps of gold.
Passage 211
परमानन्दसम्पन्ना पुत्रयोर्निरमञ्छयत्। ततो रामः समाहूय ब्राह्मणान्दुःखपीडितान्॥२११॥
Filled with supreme joy, she warded evil from both sons. Rāma then summoned the brahmins who had been afflicted by sorrow.
Passage 212
ददौ तेभ्यो निजानीता धेनूर्व्याघ्रेण भक्षिताः। अबाधिता अक्षताश्च स्वप्नादिव समुत्थिताः॥२१२॥
He gave them their own cows, which had been eaten by the tiger but now stood unharmed and whole, as though awakened from a dream.
Passage 213
रत्नौघैः समलङ्कृत्य दिव्यभूषाम्बरादिभिः। स्रग्गन्धपटवासाद्यैः परमानन्दनिर्वृताः॥२१३॥
The brahmins adorned the cows with masses of jewels, divine ornaments and cloth, garlands, fragrances, and fine garments, fulfilled in supreme joy.
Passage 214
दृष्ट्वा द्विजवरा धेनूर्मुमुदुः परया मुदा। तुष्टुवुश्चैव वीरेन्द्रं रामचन्द्रं गुणाकरम्॥२१४॥
परमेश्वरमेवामुं विनिश्चित्य विशेषतः। Seeing their cows, the eminent brahmins rejoiced with the highest joy. Certain that Rāmacandra, lord of heroes and treasury of virtues, was the Supreme Lord himself, they praised him. The brahmins said:
Passage 215
अहो अहो राघववर्य तावकं सुवीर्यमेतद्वचनाद्यगोचरम्। किं वर्णयामो वचसा जना वयं न यत्र वेदः किमपि प्रवर्तते॥२१५॥
Wonderful, foremost Rāghava! This splendid prowess of yours lies beyond the reach of speech. How can ordinary people describe what even the Veda cannot express?
Passage 216
यशश्च ते राघवराजनन्दन स्वर्गापगापुण्यजलौघशीतलम्। नित्यं समुद्गाय जनास्त्रिलोकगाः स्वचित्ततापं शमयन्ति सम्प्रति॥२१६॥
Rāghava, delight of the king, your fame is cool as the sacred current of the heavenly Gaṅgā. By continually singing it, people throughout the three worlds now quiet the fever of their hearts.
Passage 217
मान्धातृमुख्यास्तव वंशसम्भवा राजान आजन्मसुपुण्यकीर्तयः। न त्वादृशः कोऽपि बभूव भूतले सुपुण्यनामा गदतामघापहः॥२१७॥
Kings born in your line, headed by Māndhātṛ, possessed sacred fame throughout their lives, but none like you has appeared on earth, whose holy name removes the sins of those who utter it.
Passage 218
कल्याणनामा जगतां मनोहरो माधुर्यसंदोहविभाविताकृतिः। मन्दारकल्पद्रुमपारिजातवत्सुगन्धकीर्तिर्भुवने चिरञ्जय॥२१८॥
Your auspicious name enchants the worlds and your form reveals concentrated sweetness. May your fragrant fame, like mandāra, wish-tree, and pārijāta, long remain victorious throughout creation.
Passage 219
जयाप्रमेयद्युतिधोरणीनिधे पुमर्थसाराखिलसद्गुणाश्रय। प्रमोदसंदोहदसुन्दराकृते श्रीराम राजीवदलायतेक्षण॥२१९॥
Victory, Śrī Rāma—treasury of immeasurable streams of radiance, refuge of every virtue and the essence of all human goals, beautiful source of overflowing joy, your eyes long as lotus petals.
Passage 220
त्वयि प्रसन्ने नरलोकभूषण स्फुटं जनानां न रुजो न च क्लमाः। पीयूषमाप्याययसि स्वकीर्तिभिस्त्रैलोक्यसंस्थाननिवासिनो जनान्॥२२०॥
Adornment of the human world, when you are pleased the people plainly suffer neither sickness nor exhaustion. With the nectar of your fame you nourish all who dwell throughout the three worlds.
Passage 221
इहावतीर्णोऽसि परः स पुरुषः श्रीरामचन्द्रोऽनन्तगुणाकरः स्वयम्। रक्षोगणैर्भूरिनिपीडितां भुवं पदाम्बुजाद्यैः सततं प्रमोदयन्॥२२१॥
You have descended here as that Supreme Person himself, Śrī Rāmacandra, treasury of infinite virtues, continually delighting the earth—long oppressed by hosts of rākṣasas—with your lotus feet and divine presence.
Passage 222
इति संस्तुवतो विप्रान्लब्धमानान्विशेषतः। नत्वा प्रस्थापयामास बहुमानपुरःसरम्॥२२२॥
Rāma bowed to the brahmins who praised him, honored them greatly, and then sent them home with special distinction. Thus ends Chapter 98, “Bringing back the twice-borns’ cows,” in the Pūrva-khaṇḍa of the glorious Ādi Rāmāyaṇa, within the dialogue of Brahmā and Bhuśuṇḍi. Source note This treatment is controlled against the 1975 Sanskrit–Hindi edition, Pūrva khaṇḍa, source leaves 570–587 (physical PDF pages 571–588; printed pages 439–456). OCR supplied the alignment layer, while the scan controlled the chapter boundaries, speaker transitions, colophon, and uncertain readings. The edition prints passage numbers 1 and 4 twice at the opening; the second occurrences are registered editorially as passages 2 and 5. Its later numerals for passages 59, 190, and 193 are visually or mechanically confusable in OCR; the continuous 222-passage sequence is retained here without abridgment.