One Arrow Drops Ravana's Crown and Returns Unseen to Rama's Quiver
Lanka Kanda, Doha 14क
Doha 14क · Movement 2 of 2
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The arrow enters the pleasure arena without herald or visible path. In one movement it strikes Ravana's royal umbrella, his crown, and the shining earrings at Mandodari's ears.
All fall to the floor before the eyes of the assembly. No warrior can identify the weapon, no guard can explain the attack, and no witness understands the secret by which three emblems were touched from the distant mountain.
The arrow has already turned back. Having completed Rama's marvel, it crosses the night and settles again within his quiver. In Lanka the music's rasa breaks apart. Fear moves through every face as the court realizes that its guarded height, kingly symbols, and intimate ornaments all stand within effortless reach.
Before Lanka can find the weapon, Rama's arrow is resting once more beside him on Suvela.
Read the passage from the Manas
छत्र मुकुट ताटंक तब हते एकहीं बान। सबकें देखत महि परे मरमु न कोऊ जान।।13(क)।। अस कौतुक करि राम सर प्रबिसेउ आइ निषंग। रावन सभा ससंक सब देखि महा रसभंग।।13(ख)।।
With a single arrow, Rama struck down Ravana's umbrella, crown, and Mandodari's earrings. They fell to earth before everyone's eyes, yet none could fathom the secret. Having performed this marvel, Rama's arrow returned and entered his quiver. All in Ravana's court were shaken, witnessing the great disruption.