Guha Seals the Ganga Crossing
Ayodhya Kanda, Doha 189
Doha 189 · Movement 2 of 2
Keep this contemplation
Preserve, print, or share
Guha's decision runs swiftly through his kinsmen. Every household and river path is to become alert before the royal host reaches the water.
Weapons are brought within reach. Boats that might carry an enemy across are to be sunk, and the landing place is to be held under guard. The familiar ghat changes in an instant from passageway to barrier.
No trumpet of conquest has yet sounded, and Bharata has issued no threat. Still, Guha prepares the river itself as a defense for Ram. Oars, hulls, current, and shore enter his vigil. His order shows how completely the absent friend governs his heart, even while fear has not yet learned the truth of Bharata's purpose.
Before Bharata reaches the river, Guha makes boats, weapons, and the guarded shore answer to his love for Ram.
Read the passage from the Manas
अस बिचारि गुहँ ग्याति सन कहेउ सजग सब होहु। हथवाँसहु बोरहु तरनि कीजिअ घाटारोहु।।189।।
His sorrow departed, and the Nishada chief filled everyone with enthusiasm. Remembering Rama, he quickly called for quiver, bow, and armor.