BS Murthy
2005
Canto 31 - Rama’s Ballad For Seetha’s ears then Rama’s tale Sang in sonorous tone Hanuman. In lineage old of Ikshvaakus Known to all for his valour Dasarath was the reigning king. Noble as he was the king Valued was he like a saint Power he had to rival gods. Generous was he by nature Took he care of his subjects Ruled he like a god on earth. For his righteous reign Dasarath Earned he fame the world over. Esteemed he his eldest son Known to all as Lord Rama, Prowess his to target well Arrows at his enemies awe. Wavers not he from dharma Adheres he to human rights Keeps his word at every turn Gives no quarter to enemies. Stepmother of Ram, Kaikeyi Wanted who crown for her son Coerced as she Dasarath then Gave up Ram thus his birthright So led Seetha with Lakshman To the thick woods of Dandak. Demons that ruled roost in Dandak Menaced they folk lived all there Killed them all Ram at one go Restored he thus righteous reign. At the news of kindred’s death Thought of settling scores Ravan, So he summoned Maareecha Turned who into golden deer Tempting Seetha to seek him, Sent then Seetha Ram to fetch Magic deer that stole her heart, Arrow when Ram’s hit Maareech Rent he cries then mimicking him Made which Seetha fear for Ram, Goaded Rama’s wife Lakshman To go in search of his sibling, With none there to stand by her Kidnapped Ravan Seetha then. Set as he on search for spouse Came Ram in touch with Sugreev Stole whose wife his own sibling. To uphold dharma then Rama Slew he Vali that mighty Helping Sugreev ascend throne. In time as per pact he made Sent Sugreev his vanar force In search of Seetha thus missing. It’s my fortune that I came Place to this in search of her. Picture have I of Seetha Painted for me by Rama. Won’t this lady well tally Picture with that Ram gave me? Spake as he with all his warmth Looked up Rama’s wife in hope. Found though she no soul in sight What she heard then made her glad. Sensing Seetha’s upbeat mood From hideout then came out Hanuman.
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