Reading Sunderkand for 21 Days: Discover the Miraculous Benefits

Reading Sunderkand: Sunderkand is one of the seven chapters of the epic Ramayana which describes the story of Shri Ram and his greatest devotee Shri Hanuman. It was originally composed in sanskrit but later translated into Awadhi by tulsidas in Ramcharitmanas. It is highly revered in Hinduism and it is said that there are various miracles of reading sunderkand. There are various benefits of reading sunderkand. Below you will find the benefits of reading sunderkand, miracales of sunderkand and sunderkand lyrics.

Why is the sunderkand path done?

Sunderkand is the fifth chapter of the Great Epic Ramayana. It was composed by Rishi Valmiki thousands of years ago. It is called ‘Sunderkand’ because it describes the beautiful and devoted life of Shri hanuman. This section of the Ramayana focuses on the great valour of shri Hanuman in the battle between Shri Ram and Ravana, and essentially when Hanuman visits mata Sita in Ashok Vatika.

Why do we read sunderkand?

Do you know why we read sunderkand? Reading and reciting the Sunderkand is said to bring calmness and freedom from stress. It gives a person strength to combat every situation and never fear anything. Pregnant women often read Sunderkand so that their child turns out like Shri hanuman. The benefits of sunderkand path are as  follows:

1. Fearlessness
   Shri hanuman is known for his bravery and valour. So reading and reciting sunderkand gives a person fearlessness and courage. It also gives a person the ability and courage to face every situation
2. Wish fulfilment
   Reading sunderkand is said to fulfil all wishes and grant a person everything his heart desires. Shri hanuman himself gives his blessings to the person reading sunderkand
3. Removes Obstacles
   When a person reads sunderkand, all obstacles are removed from his life and he becomes indestructible.
4. Show devotion to Shri Hanuman
   Reading Sunderkand is an act of deep devotion to Shri Hanuman, celebrating his loyalty, strength, and wisdom. This devotion is said to bring blessings and divine support.
5. Relieves anxiety and brings calmness
   It provides mental peace and stability in emotions in life. The person who reads sunderkand always finds himself calmer in tough situations in life.He is also relieved of anger issues.
6. Removes negative energies around you
   Shri hanuman removes malefic forces around you when you read sunderkand. Any evil entity cannot lurk anywhere near a devotee of shri hanuman.
   

Benefits of reading sunderkand for 21 days

For 21 days, reading Sunderkand nonstop is a custom among devotees. It is said that one’s life will significantly improve during this time. As a kind of spiritual discipline, the 21-day recitation assists people in directing their goals and efforts toward self-improvement and problem-solving. Devotees frequently describe increased mental clarity, decreased anxiety, and an overall sense of well-being at this time. It is advised to schedule recitation at a fixed time each day, create a calm atmosphere, and engage the practice with reverence and sincerity in order to sustain focus and dedication.

Miracles of reading sunderkand

Many followers attribute miraculous changes in their life to Sunderkand. Numerous individuals have provided personal accounts and endorsements on the unforeseen and beneficial transformations that reciting Sunderkand has brought about. These miracles might include everything from overcoming obstacles in one’s personal and professional life to receiving great healing and protection. People are inspired to tackle their own challenges with courage and faith by the story of Hanuman’s enduring commitment and tenacity. Belief in Sunderkand’s divine power and Shri Hanuman’s blessings is strengthened by the region’s wonders.

How to read sunderkand path

Sunderkand path requires a methodical strategy to guarantee a genuine and impactful recitation. Read below to find out about how to read sunderkand

Prepare: Select a spotless, peaceful area for the recitation. Offer flowers and incense to Shri Hanuman and Shri Rama, and light a diya .

Invocation: Begin by praising Bhagwan Ganesha and asking for his assistance in having a successful recitation. Then offer up a prayer to the gods and Rishi Valmiki.

Recitation: Open the Sunderkand verses and begin reading. Keep your speed constant while concentrating on the ideas and feelings that the text is trying to get over.

Concluding remarks: Conclude by expressing gratitude to Lord Hanuman, Lord Rama, and all other deities. Ask for their blessings to have your wishes fulfilled and barriers removed.

Time of recitation : Reciting Sunderkand is advised on good days such as Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are associated with Shri Hanuman.

Sunderkand Lyrics

Ramcharitmanas Sundarkand Path – Lyrics and Meaning

English:

Prayer to Lord Ram

“Shantam Shasvatamaprameyamanaghanam nirvanashantipradam

brahmashambhuphaneendrasevyamanisham vedantavedyam vibhum,

Ramakhayam jagadishvaram suragurum mayamanusyamharim

vandeaham karunakaram raghuvaram bhupalachunamanim.”

Meaning: I adore the Lord of the universe bearing the name of Rama, the Chief of raghu’s line and the crest-jewel of kings, the mine of compassion, the dispeller of all sins, appearing in human form through His Maya (deluding potency), the greatest of all gods, knowable through Vedanta (the Upanishads),constantly worshiped by Brahma (the Creator), sambhu (Lord Shiva) and sesha (the serpent-god), the bestower of supreme peace in the form of final beatitude, placid, eternal, beyond the ordinary means of cognition, sinless and all-pervading.(1)

“nanya sprha raghupate hridayesmadiye

satyam vadami cha bhavnakhilantartma,

bhaktim prayaccha raghupungava nirbharam me,

kamadidosarahitamkuru manasam cha.(2)”

Meaning: There is no other craving in my heart, O Lord of the raghus: I speak the truth and You are the Spirit indwelling the hearts of all. Grant me intense devotion to Your feet, O crest-jewel of raghus, and free my mind from faults like concupiscence etc.(2)

“Atulitabaladhamam hemashailabhadeham

danujavanakrusanum jnaninamagraganyam,

sakalagunanidhanam vanaranamadhihsam

raghupatipriyabhaktamvatajatam namami. (3)”

Meaning: I bow to the son of the wind-god, the beloved devotee of Sri Rama (the Lord of the raghus), the chief of the monkeys, the repository of all virtues, the foremost among the wise, a fire to consume the forest of the demon race, possessing a body shining as a mountain of gold and a home of immeasurable strength. (3)

Chaupai:

“jamavanta ke bachan suhaye,

suni hanumanta hridaya ati bahe.

taba lagi mohi parikhehu tumha bhai,

sahi dukha kanda muula phala khayi. 1.”

Meaning: Hanuman was much delighted at heart to hear the heartening speech of Jambavant

jaba lagi avau sitahi dekhi,

hoihi kaju mohi harasa bisesi.

yaha kahi nai sabanhi kahu mth,

chaleu harasi hiya dhari raghuntha. 2.

Meaning: till I return after seeing Sita. I am sure our object will be accomplished as I feel very cheerful.” So saying and after bowing his head to them all he set out full of joy with an image of Sri Rama (the Lord of the raghus) enshrined in his heart

simdhu tira eka bhudhara sundara,

kautuk kudi chadheu ta upara.

bara bara raghubira sambhri,

tarakeu pavanatanaya bala bhari. 3.

Meaning: There was a beautiful hill on the seacoast; he lightly sprang on to its top. And invoking the Hero of raghus line again and again, the son of the wind-god took a leap with all his might.

jehi giri charan dei hanumanta,

chaleu so ga patala turanta

jimi amogha raghupati kar baana,

ehi bhati chaleu hanumana. 4.

Meaning: The hill on which Hanuman planted his foot while leaping sank down immediately into the nethermost region (Patala). Hanuman sped forth in the same way as the unerring shaft of Sri Rama (the Lord of the raghus).

jalanidhi raghupati duta bichari,

tai mainaak hohi shrama haari.5.

Meaning: Knowing him to be Sri Rama’s emissary, the deity presiding over the ocean spoke to mount Mainaka,”relieve him of his fatigue, O Mainaka (by allowing him to rest on you).(1-5)

Doha:

Hanumana tehi parasa kara puni kinha pranam,

Rama kaju kinhe binu mohi kaha bisrama.1

Meaning: Hanuman simply touched the mountain with his hand and then made obeisance to it saying, “There can be no rest for me till I have accomplished Sri Rama’s work. (1)

Chaupai: jata pavanasuta devanha dekha, janai kahu bala buddhi bisesa.

surasa nama ahinha kai mata, paithainhi ai kahi tehi bata.1.

Meaning: The gods saw the son of the wind-god sweeping along; and in order to test his extraordinary strength and intelligence they sent Surasa, a mother of serpents, who came near him and said:

aju suranha mohi dinha ahara, sunata bachana kaha pavanakumara.

rama kaju kari phiri mai avau, sita kai sudhi prabhuhi sunvau.2.

Meaning: The gods have provided me a meal today. On hearing these words the son of the wind-god said in reply, “Let me return after accomplishing Sri Rama’s errand and tell my lord the news of Sita.

taba tava badana paithihau ai, satya kahau mohi jana de mai.

kavanehu jatana dei nahi jana, grasasi na mohi kaheu hanumana.3.

Meaning: Then I will approach you and enter your mouth; I tell you the truth. Mother, only let me go now.” When, however, she would not let him go on any account, Hanuman said, Then why not devour me? She distended her mouth to a distance of eight miles, while the chief of monkeys grew double the size of her mouth.

jojana bhari tehi badanu pasara, kapi tanu kinha duguna bistara.

soraha jojana mukha tehi thayau, turata pavanasuta battisa bhayau.4.

Meaning: She stretched her mouth to a circumference of a hundred and twenty-eight miles, and the son of the wind-god immediately took a form covering two hundred and fifty-six miles. Even as Surasa expanded her jaws the chief of the monkeys manifested a form twice as large as her mouth.

jasa jasa surasa badanu badhava, tasu duna kapi rupa dekhava.

sata jojana tehi anana kinha, ati laghu rupa pavanasuta linha.5.

Meaning: When she further expanded her mouth eight hundred miles wide, the son of the wind-god assumed a very minute form, by which he entered her mouth and came out again and bowing his head to her begged leave to proceed

badana paithi puni bahera ava, maga bida tahi siru nava.

mohi suranha jehi lagi pathava, budhi bala maramu tora mai pava.6.

Meaning: I have gauged the extent of your wit and strength, the errand

for which the gods had despatched me.(1-6)

Doha: Rama kaju sabu karihahu tumha bala buddhi nidhana,

asisa dei gai so harasi chaleu hanumana.2.

Meaning: You will accomplish all the work of Sri Rama, a storehouse that you are of strength and intelligence. Having blessed Hanuman she departed and Hanuman too joyfully resumed his journey (through the air).(2)

Chaupai: nisichari ek sindhu mahu rahai, kari maya nabhu ke khaga gahai.

jiva jantu je gagana udai , jala biloki tinha kai parichhai

Meaning: There was a demoness who dwelt in the ocean and would catch the birds in the air by conjuring tricks.

gahai chhai saka so na udai, ehi bidhi sada gaganachar khai.

soi chala hanumana kaha kinha, tasu kapatu kapi turatahi chinha 2.

Meaning: Seeing on the surface of the water the reflection of the creature that coursed in the air she would catch it and the bird was unable to move. In this way she would devour birds everyday . She employed the same trick against Hanuman, but the chief of monkeys at once saw through her game.

tahi mari marutasuta bira, baridhi pra gayau matidhira.

tah jai dekhi bana sobha, gunjata chancharika madhu lobha.3.

Meaning: . The valiant son of the wind-god dispatched her and swept across the ocean, resolute of mind as he was. reaching the other shore he gazed on the loveliness of the forest with the bees humming in quest of honey.

nana taru phala phula suhae, khaga mriga brinda dekhi mana bhae.

saila bisla dekhi eka aage , ta para dhai chadheu bhaya tyage .4.

Meaning: Trees of various kinds looked charming with fruits and flowers; and he was particularly delighted at heart to see the numerous birds and beasts. Beholding a huge mountain ahead of him, he fearlessly ran up to its summit.

uma na kachu kapi kai adhikai, prabhu pratapa jo kalahi khai.

giri para chadhi lanka tehi dekhi, kahi na ji ati durga bisesi.5.

Meaning: The chief of the monkeys, O Uma (Parvati), deserved no credit for it: it was all attributable to the glory of the Lord, who devours Death himself. Climbing up the hill he surveyed Lanka, a most marvellous fortress that defied description.

ati utanga jalanidhi chahu pasa, kanaka kota kara paRama prakasa.6.

Meaning: The ramparts of gold shed great lustre all round.(1-6)

Chan: kanaka kota bichitra mani krta sundarayatana ghana,

chauhatta hatta subatta bithi charu pura bahu bidhi bana.

gaja baji khachchara nikara padachara ratha baruthanhi ko ganai,

bahurupa nisichara jutha atibala sena baranata nahi banai.1.

Meaning: The charming city was enclosed by a fortification wall of gold inlaid with precious stones of various kinds, and contained many beautiful houses, cross roads, bazars, lovely streets and lanes, and was decorated in everyway. Who could count the multitudes of elephants, horses and mules, the crowds of foot soldiers and chariots and the troops of demons of every shape-a formidable host beyond all description ?

bana baga upabana batika sara kupa bapi sohahi,

nara naga sura gandharbha kanya rupa muni mana mohahi.

kahu mala deha bisala saila samana atibala garjahi,

nana akharenha bhirahi bahu bidhi eka ekanha tarjahi.2.

Meaning: Groves and orchards, gardens and parks, lakes and also wells, big and small, looked charming; daughters of human beings, Nagas, gods and Gandharvas (celestial musicians) enraptured with their beauty the minds of even hermits. Here roared mighty wrestlers endowed with huge mountain like forms. They grappled with one another in many ways in different courts and challenged one another to a duel. Myriads of champions possessing frightful forms sedulously guarded the city on all sides

kari jatana bhata kotinha bikata tana nagara chahu disi racchahi,

kahu mahisha manusha dhenu khara aja khala nisachara bhacchahi.

ehi lagi tulasidasa inha ki katha kachu eka hai kahi,

raghubira sara tiratha sariranhi tyagi gati paihahi sahi.3.

Meaning: Elsewhere the vile demons feasted on buffaloes, human beings, cows, donkeys and goats. Tulasidasa has briefly told their story only because they will drop their bodies at the sanctuary of Sri Rama’s arrows and thereby attain the supreme state.(1-3)

Doha: pura rakhavare dekhi bahu kapi mana kinha bichara,

ati laghu rupa dharau nisi nagara karau paisara.3.

Meaning: Seeing a host of guards defending the city, the chief of the monkeys thought to himself, Let me assume a very minute form and enter the city at night.

Chaupai: masaka samana rupa kapi dhari, lankahi chaleu sumiri narhari,

nama lankini eka nisichari,so kaha chalesi mohi nindari.1.

Meaning: Hanuman assumed a form as small as a gnat and, invoking the Lord in human semblance (Bhagavan Sri Rama), headed towards Lanka. (At the gateway of Lanka) lived a demoness, Lankini by name.

janehi nahi maramu satha mora,mor ahara jahaa lagi chora,

muthika eka maha kapi hani,rudhira bamata dharani dhanamani.2.

Meaning: Where should you be going heedless of me? she said. Fool, have you not been able to know who I am? Every thief hereabout is my food. The great monkey dealt her such a blow with his fist that she toppled down vomiting blood.

puni sanbhari uthi so lanka, jori paani kara binaya sanasaka,

jaba ravanahi brahma bara dinha, chalata biranchi kah mohi chinha.3.

Meaning: Then, recovering herself, Lanka (Lankini), stood up, and joining her palms in dismay, humbly addressed him, When Brahma granted ravana the boon he had asked for, the Creator furnished me with the following clue (to the extermination of the demon race)

bikala hosi tai kapi ke mare, taba janesu nisichara sanghre.

tata mora ati punya bahuta, dekheu nayana rama kara duta.4.

Meaning: while departing:- When you get discomfited by a blow from a monkey, know that all is over with the demon race.’ I must have earned very great merit, dear Hanuman, that I have been blessed with the sight of Sri Rama’s own messenger.(1-4)

Doha: tata svarga apabarga sukha dhari tula eka anga,

tula na tahi sakala mili jo sukha lava satasanga.4.

Meaning: In one scale of the balance, dear son, put together the delights of heaven and the bliss of final beatitude; but they will all be outweighed by a moment’s joy derived from communion with the saints.(4)

Chaupai: prabisi nagara kije saba kaja, hridaya rakhi kosalapura raja.

garala sudha ripu karahi mitai, gopada sindhu anala sitalai.1.

Meaning: Poison is transformed into nectar, foes turn friends, the ocean contracts itself to the size of a cow’s footprint, fire becomes cool and Mount Meru, O Garuda, appears like a grain of sand to him on whom Sri Rama has cast His benign look.

garura sumeru renu sama tahi, rama kripa kari chitava jahi.

ati laghu rupa dhareu hanumana, paitha nagar sumiri bhagwana.2.

Meaning: Hanuman assumed a very minute form and invoking Sri Rama entered the city. He ransacked every mansion and saw countless warriors here and there.

mandira mandira prati kari sodha, dekhe jaha taha aganita jodha.

gayau dasanana mandira mahi, ati bichitra kahi jat so nahi.3.

Meaning: Then he made his way into ravana’s palace, which was marvellous beyond words.

sayaan kiye dekha kapi tehi, mamdira mahu na dikhi baidehi.

bhavan ek puni dikha suhava, hari mamdira taha bhinna banawa.4.

Meaning: He saw the demon chief buried in sleep; but he did not find Videha’s Daughter there. He then noticed another splendid building, with a temple sacred to Sri Hari standing apart.(1-4)

Doha: Ramayudha ankit graha sobha barani na jai,

nava tulasika brinda taha dekhi harasha kapirai.5.

Meaning: The mansion had the weapons (bow and arrow) of Sri Rama painted on its walls and was beautiful beyond words. The monkey chief rejoiced to see clusters of young Tulasi plants there.(5)

Chaupai: lanka nisichara nikara nivasa, inha kar sajjan kar basa.

mana mahu taraka karai kapi laga, tehi samay vibhishanu jaga.1.

Meaning: Lanka is the abode of a gang of demons; how could a pious man take up his residence here? While the monkey chief was thus reasoning within himself, Vibhishana (ravana’s youngest brother) woke up.

Rama Rama tehi sumirana kinha, hridayam harash kapi sajjan cheenha.

ehi sana hathi karihau pahicani,sadhu ke hoyi na karaj hani.2.

Meaning: He began to repeat Sri Rama’s name in prayer and Hanuman was delighted at heart to find a virtuous soul. I shall make acquaintance with him at all events; for one’s cause would never suffer at the hands of a good man. Having thus resolved he assumed the form of a Brahmana and accosted Vibhishana.

bipra rupa dhari bachana sunri, sunata bibhshana uthi taha ae.

kari pranama puchi kusalai, ki tumha hari dasanha maha koi.3.

Meaning: As soon as he heard Hanuman’s words he rose and came where the latter was. Bowing low he enquired after the Brahmana’s welfare: Tell me all about you, holy sir.

ki tumha hari dasanha maha koi, more hridaya priti ati hoi.

ki tumha ramu dina anurgi, ayahu mohi karana barabhagi.4.

Meaning: Are you one of Sri Hari’s own servants (Narada and others)? My heart is filled with exceeding love at your sight. Or are you Sri Rama Himself, a loving friend of the poor, who have come to bless me (by your sight)?(1-4)

Doha: taba hanumanta kahi saba Rama katha nija nama,

sunata jugala tana pulaka mana magana sumiri guna gRama.6.

Meaning: There upon Hanuman told him all about Sri Rama and disclosed his identity as well. The moment Vibhishana heard this a thrill ran through the body of both and they were transported with joy at the thought of Sri Rama’s host of virtues.(6)

Chaupai: sunahu pavanasuta rahani hamari, jimi dasananhi mahu jibha bichari.

tata kabahu mohi jani anatha, karihahi kripa bhanukula natha.1.

Meaning: Hear, O son of the wind-god, how I am living here: my plight is similar to that of the poor tongue, that lives in the midst of the teeth. Will the Lord of the solar race, dear friend, ever show His grace to me .

tamasa tanu kachu sadhana nahi, priti na pada saroja mana mahi.

ab mohi bha bharos hanumanta, binu hari kripa mialhi nahi santa.2.

Meaning: knowing me to be masterless? Endowed as I am with a sinful (demoniac) form, I am incapable of doing any Sadhana (striving for God realization); and my heart cherishes no love for the Lord’s lotus-feet. But I am now confident, Hanuman, that Sri Rama will shower his grace on me; for one can never meet a saint without Sri Hari’s grace.

jau raghubira anugraha kinha, tau tumha mohi darasu hathi dinha.

sunahu bibhishana prabhu kai riti, karahi sada sevaka para priti.3.

Meaning: It is only because the Hero of Raghu’s race has been kind to me that you have blessed me with your sight unsolicited. Listen, Vibhishana: the Lord is ever affectionate to His servants; for such is his wont.

kahahu kavana mai paRama kulina, kapi chancala sabahi bidhi hina.

prata lei jo naam hamara, tehi din tahi na milai ahara.4.

Meaning: Tell me what superior birth can I claim-a frivolous monkey vile in everyway, so much so that if anyone mentions our name early in the morning he is sure to go without any food that day.(1-4)

Doha: asa mai adhama sakha sunu mohu para raghubira,

kinhi kripa sumiri guna bhare bilochana nira.7.

Meaning: Listen, my friend: though I am so wretched, the Hero of Raghu’s race has shown his grace even to me ! And his eyes filled with tears as he recalled the Lord’s virtues.

Chaupai: janatahu asa svami bisari, phirahi te kahe na hohi dukhari.

ehi bidhi kahata Rama guna grama, pava anirbachya bisRama.1.

Meaning: It is not to be wondered that those who knowingly forget such a lord and go adrift should be unhappy. Thus recounting Sri Rama’s virtues, Hanuman derived unspeakable solace.

puni saba katha bibhishana kahi, jehi bidhi janakasuta taha rahi.

taba hanumanta kaha sunu bhrata, dekhi chahau janaki mata.2.

Meaning: Thereupon Hanuman said, Listen, brother: I should like to see Mother Sita: Vibhishana fully explained to him the method of seeing Her and the son of the wind-god took leave of Vibhishana and proceeded on his errand.

juguti bibhishana sakala sunai, chaleu pavanasuta bida karai.

kari soi rupa gayau puni tahava, bana asoka sita raha jahava .3.

Meaning: Assuming the same (minute) form as he had taken before, he repaired to the Asoka grove where Sita dwelt. He mentally bowed to Her as soon as he saw Her.

dekhi manahi mahu kinha pranama, baithehi biti jata nisi jama.

krisa tanu sisa jata eka beni, japati hridaya raghupati guna sreni.4.

Meaning: Emaciated in body, She wore a single braid of matted hair on Her head and repeated to Herself the list of Sri Rama’s excellences. It is customary with Indian women to wear a single braid of hair when separated from their husband.(1-4)

Doha: nija pada nayana die mana Rama pada kamala lina,

parama dukhi bha pavanasuta dekhi janaki dina.8.

Meaning: She had Her eyes fixed on Her own feet, while Her mind was absorbed in the thought of Sri Rama’s lotus feet. The son of the wind-god felt supremely miserable to see Janaka’s Daughter sad.(8)

Chaupai: taru pallava mahu raha lukai, karai bichara karau ka bhai.

tehi avasara ravanu taha ava, sanga nari bahu kie banava.1.

Meaning: Concealing himself among the leaves of a tree he mused within himself, Come, sir, what should I do? At that very moment ravana arrived there gaily adorned and accompanied by a troop of women.

bahu bidhi khala sitahi samujhava,sama dana bhaya bheda dekhava.

tava anucari karau pana mora, ek bar biloku mama ora.2.

Meaning: The wretch tried to prevail upon Her in many ways through friendly advice, allurements, threats and estrangement. Said ravana, Listen, O beautiful and wise lady: I will make Mandodari and all other queens

tava anucari karau pana mora, ek bar biloku mama ora.2.

trina dhari ota kahati baidehi, sumiri avadhapati parama sanehi.3.

Meaning: The wretch tried to prevail upon Her in many ways through friendly advice, allurements, threats and estrangement. Said ravana, Listen, O beautiful and wise lady: I will make Mandodari and all other queens your handmaids, I swear, provided you cast your look on me only once.

sunu dasamukha khadyota prakasa, kabahu ki nalini karai bikasa.

asa mana samujhu kahati janaki, khala sudhi nahi raghubira bana ki.4.

Meaning: Interposing a blade of grass between Herself and ravana and fixing Her thoughts on Her most beloved lord (Sri Rama), the King of Ayodhya, Videha’s Daughter rejoined: Listen, O ten-headed monster: can a lotus flower ever expand in the glow of a fire-fly? Ponder this at heart, continued Janaka’s Daughter; perhaps you have no idea what Sri Rama’s shafts are like, O wretch.

satha sune hari anehi mohi, adhama nilajja laja nahi tohi.5.

Meaning: You carried me off at a time when there was none by my side; yet you do not feel ashamed, O vile and impudent rogue!(1-5)

Doha: apuhi suni khadyota sama Ramahi bhanu samana,

parusha bachana suni karhi asi bola ati khisiana.9.

Meaning: Hearing himself likened to a glow-worm and Sri Rama compared to the sun, and exasperated at Her harsh words, the monster drew out his sword and said:-(9)

Chaupai: sita tai mama krita apamana, katihau tava sira kathina kripana.

nahi ta sapadi manu mama bani, sumukhi hoti na ta jivana hani.1.

Meaning: Sita, you have offered me an insult; I will accordingly cut off your head with my relentless sword. If not, obey my command at once; or else you lose your life, O beautiful lady.

syama saroja dama sama sundara, prabhu bhuja kari kara sama dasakandhara.

so bhuja kantha ki tava asi ghora, sunu satha asa pravana pana mora.2.

Meaning: My lord’s arm is lovely as a string of blue lotuses and shapely and long as the trunk of an elephant, O ten-headed monster. Either that arm or your dreadful sword will have my neck: hear this my solemn vow, O fool.

chandrahasa haru mama paritapan, raghupati biraha anala sanjatan.

sitala nisita bahasi bara dhara, kaha sita haru mama dukha bhara.3.

Meaning: (Turning to ravana’s glittering scimitar) Take away, O Candrahasa, the burning anguish of my heart caused by the fire of separation from the Lord of the raghus. You possess a cool, sharp and good blade; therefore, relieve the burden of my sorrow, Sita said.

sunata bacana puni marana dhava, mayatanaya kahi niti bujhava.

kahesi sakala nisicharinha bolai, sitahi bahu bidhi trasahu jai.4.

Meaning: On hearing these words he rushed forward to kill Her; it was Queen Mandodari (Maya’s daughter) who (intervened and) pacified him with words of good counsel. Summoning all the demonesses (posted there) he said, Go and intimidate Sita in every way.

masa divasa mahu kaha na mana, tau mai marabi karhi kripana.5.

Meaning: If she does not accept my advice in a month’s time I will draw my sword and behead her.(1-5)

Doha: bhavana gayau dasakandhara iha pisacini brinda,

sitahi trasa dekhavahi dharahi rupa bahu manda.10.

Meaning: (Having issued these instructions) the ten headed ravana returned to his palace; while the host of fiendesses in the Asoka grove assumed various kinds of hideous forms and intimidated Sita.(10)

Chaupai: trijata nama racchasi eka, Rama charana rati nipuna bibeka.

sabanhau boli sunrisi sapana, sitahi sei karahu hita apana.1.

Meaning: One of these demonesses, Trijata by name, was devoted to Sri Rama’s feet and perfect in spiritual wisdom. She summoned all her companions, told them her dream and exhorted them to serve Sita and thus bless themselves.

sapane banara lanka jari, jatudhana sena saba mari.

khara arurha nagana dasa sisa, mundita sira khandita bhuja bisa.2.

Meaning: In my dream a monkey burnt Lanka and the whole demon host was killed. As for the ten-headed ravana, I saw him mounted on a donkey, all naked, with his heads shorn and his twenty arms chopped off.

ehi bidhi so dacchina disi jai, lanka manahu bibhishana pai.

nagara phiri raghubira dohai, taba prabhu sita boli pathai.3.

Meaning: In this fashion he went his way to the south; and it so appeared that Lanka had passed into the hands of Vibhishana. Sri Rama’s victory was proclaimed (by beat of drum) throughout the city: it was then that the Lord (Sri Rama) sent for Sita

yaha sapana mai kahau pukari, hoihi satya gyi dina chari.

tasu bacana suni te saba dari, janakasuta ke charananhi pari.4.

Meaning: This dream, I loudly proclaim, will come true a few days hence. They were all dismayed to hear her words and fell at the feet of Janaka’s Daughter.(1-4)

Doha: jaha taha gai sakala taba sita kara mana soch,

masa divasa bite mohi marihi nisichara poch.11.

Meaning: Then they all dispersed in various directions and Sita anxiously thought within herself. “At the end of a long month this vile monster will slay me”.†(11)

Chaupai: trijata sana boli kara jori, matu bipati sangini tai mori.

tajau deha karu begi upai, dusaha birahu aba nahi sahi jai.1.

Meaning: With joined palms She said to Trijata, Mother, you are my only companion in adversity. Therefore, quickly devise some means whereby I may be enabled to cast off this body; for this desolation, which is so hard to bear, can no longer be endured. Bring some wood and put up a pyre; and then, my mother, set fire to it.

ani kaath rachu chita banai, matu anala puni dehi lagai.

satya karahi mama priti sayani, sunai ko sravana sula sam bani.2.

Meaning: Thus prove the genuineness of my love for the Lord, O wise lady. Who will stand ravana’s words,that pierce the ear like a shaft? On hearing these words she clasped Sita’s feet and comforted Her by recounting the majesty, might and glory of Her lord

Sunata bachana pada gahi samujhaesi | Prabhu pratap bala sujasu sunaesi ||

Nisi na anala mil sunu sukumari | As kahi so nija bhavan sidhaari ||3||

Meaning: Listen, O tender lady: no fire can be had at night. So saying she left for her residence.

kaha sita bidhi bha pratikula, milihi na pavaka mitihi na sula.

dekhiata pragata gagana angara, avani na avata ekau tara.4.

Meaning: Sita said (to Herself) Heaven itself has turned hostile to me; there is no fire to be had and I cannot be cured of my agony otherwise. Sparks of fire are visibly seen in the heavens; but not a single star drops to the earth. The moon, though all fire, refuses to rain sparks, as if conscious of my wretchedness.

pavakamaya sasi sravata na agi, manahu mohi jani hata bhagi.

sunahi binaya mama bitapa asoka, satya nama karu haru mama soka.5.

Meaning: Hear my prayer, O Asoka tree: take away my sorrow and answer to your name. Your fresh and tender leaves bear the colour of flames; therefore, supply me with fire and do not aggravate my agony beyond limits.

nutana kisalaya anala samana, dehi agini jani karahi nidana.

dekhi parama birahakula sita, so chana kapihi kalapa sama bita.6.

Meaning: The moment seemed like an age† to Hanuman as he beheld Sita extremely distressed due to Her separation from Her lord.(1-6)

Sortha: kapi kari hridaya bichara dinhi mudrika dari taba,

janu asoka angara dinha harashi uthi kara gaheu.12.

Meaning: Then, taking thought within himself, Hanuman (the monkey chief) dropped down the signet ring, as though the Asoka tree had thrown a spark (in response to Her prayer). She sprang up with joy and took it in Her hand.(12)

Chaupai: taba dekhi mudrika manohara, Rama nama ankita ati sundara.

chakita chitava mudari pahicani, harash bishad hridaya akulani.1.

Meaning: Now She saw the charming ring with the name of Sri Rama most beautifully engraved on it. recognizing the ring She looked at it with wonder and was agitated at heart with a mixed feeling of joy and sorrow.

jiti ko sakai ajaya raghurai, maya te asi rachi nahi jai.

sita mana bichara kara nana, madhura bachana boleu hanumana.2.

Meaning: Who can conquer the invincible Lord of the raghus and such a (divine) ring cannot be prepared through Maya (a conjuring trick). As Sita thus indulged in fancies of various kinds, Hanuman spoke in honeyed accents and began to recount Sri Rama chandra’s praises

Rama chandra guna baranai laga, sunatahi sita kara dukha bhaga.

lagi sunai sravana mana lai, adihu te saba katha sunai.3.

Meaning: The moment they reached Sita’s ears Her grief took flight. She listened with all Her soul and ears while Hanuman narrated the whole story from the very beginning.

sravanamrita jehi katha suhai, kahi so pragata hoti kina bhai.

taba hanumanta nikata chali gayau, phiri baithi mana bisamaya bhayau.4.

Meaning: Therefore does she who has told this tale, which is like nectar to my ears, not reveal herself? Thereupon Hanuman drew near Her, while Sita sat with her back turned towards him, full of amazement.

Ramaduta mai matu janaki, satya sapatha karunanidhana ki.

yaha mudrika matu mai ani, dinhi Rama tumha kaha sahidani.5.

Meaning: I am Sri Rama’s messenger, mother Janaki: I solemnly swear by the all-merciful Lord Himself. This ring has been brought by me, O mother; Sri Rama gave it to me as a token for you.

nara banarahi sanga kahu kaise, kahi katha bhai sangati jaise .6.

Meaning: Tell me what brought about this fellowship between a man and a monkey. Then Hanuman explained the circumstances in which a union was brought about between men and monkeys.

Doha: kapi ke bachana saprema suni upaja mana bisvasa,

jana mana krama bachana yaha kripasindhu kara dasa.13.

Meaning: As She heard the monkey’s affectionate words Her soul trusted him and She recognized him to be a servant of the all-merciful Lord in thought, word and deed. (13)

Chaupai: harijana jani priti ati garhi, sajala nayana pulakavali barhi.

burata biraha jaladhi hanumana, bhayahu tata mo kahu jala jana.1.

Meaning: Perceiving him to be a devotee of Sri Hari She developed an intense affection for him. Her eyes filled with tears and a thrill ran through Her body . To me who was being drowned in the ocean of desolation, dear Hanuman, you have come as a veritable bark.

aba kahu kusala jau balihari, anuja sahita sukha bhavana kharari.

komala chita kripala raghurai, kapi kehi hetu dhari nithurai.2.

Meaning: Now tell me, I adjure you, the welfare of all-blissful Sri Rama (the Slayer of Khara) and His younger brother (Lakshmana). Wherefore has the tender-hearted and compassionate Lord of the raghus become so hard-hearted?

sahaja bani sevaka sukha dayaka, kabahu ka surati karata raghunayaka.

kabahu nayana mama sitala tata, hoihahi nirakhi syama mridu gata.3.

Meaning: Does the Chief of the raghus ever remember me-He who is by natural disposition a source of delight to His servants ? Will my eyes, dear Hanuman, be ever gladdened by the sight of His swarthy and delicate limbs? Words failed Her and Her eyes swam with tears.

bachanu na ava nayana bhare bari, ahaha natha hau nipata bisari.

dekhi parama birahakula sita, bola kapi mridu bacana binita.4.

Meaning: Ah, my lord ! You have entirely forgotten me. Seeing Sita sore distressed due to Her separation from Her lord, Hanuman addressed Her in soft and polite accents:

matu kusala prabhu anuja sameta, tava dukha dukhi sukripa niketa.

jani janani manahu jiya una, tumha te premu Rama ke duna.5.

Meaning: The Lord and His younger brother (Lakshmana) are both doing well, mother, except for the fact that the all-merciful is sorrowful because of Your sorrow. Do not feel vexed at heart, mother; Sri Rama loves You twice as much as You love Him.(1-5)

Doha: raghupati kara sandesu aba sunu janani dhari dhira,

asa kahi kapi gadagada bhayau bhare bilocana nira.14.

Meaning: Mother, compose Yourself now and hear the message of Sri Rama (the Lord of the raghus). Even as he uttered these words, the monkey’s voice was choked with emotion and his eyes filled with tears.(14)

Chaupai: kaheu Rama biyoga tava sita, mo kahu sakala bhari biparita.

nava taru kisalaya manahu krisanu, kala nisa sama nisi sasi bhanu.1.

Meaning: Sri Rama said: Ever since I have been separated from you, Sita, everything to me has become its very reverse. The fresh and tender leaves on the trees look like tongues of fire; nights appear as dreadful as the night of final dissolution and the moon scorches like the sun

kubalaya bipina kunta bana sarisa, barida tapata tela janu barisa.

je hita rahe karata tei pira, uraga svasa sama tribidha samira.2.

Meaning: Beds of lotuses are like so many spears planted on the ground, while rain-clouds pour boiling oil as it were. Those that were friendly before have now become tormenting; the cool, soft and fragrant breezes are now like the breath of a serpent.

kahehu te kachu dukha ghati hoi, kahi kahau yaha jana na koi.

tatva prema kara mama aru tora, janata priya eku manu mora.3.

Meaning: One’s agony is assuaged to some extent even by speaking of it; but to whom shall I speak about it? For there is no one who will understand.

so manu sada rahata tohi pahi,janu priti rasu etanehi mahi.

prabhu sandesu sunata baidehi, magana prema tana sudhi nahi tehi.4.

Meaning: The reality about the chord of love that binds you and me, dear, is known to my soul alone; and my soul ever abides with you. Know this to be the essence of my love. Videha’s Daughter was so absorbed in love the moment She heard the Lord’s message, that She lost all consciousness of Her body.

kaha kapi hridaya dhira dharu mata, sumiru Rama sevaka sukhadata.

ura anahu raghupati prabhutai, suni mama bachana tajahu kadarai.5.

Meaning: Said the monkey, Mother, collect Yourself, and fix Your thoughts on Sri Rama, the delight of His servants. reflect on the glory of the Lord of the raghus and shake off all faint-heartedness upon my word.(1-5)

Doha: nisichara nikara patanga sama raghupati bana krisanu,

janani hridaya dhira dharu jare nisacara janu.15.

Meaning: The hosts of demons are like so many moths, while the shafts of the Lord of the raghus are like flames. Have courage in Your heart, mother, and take the demons as consumed.(15)

Chaupai: jaura ghubira hoti sudhi pai, karate nahi bilanbu raghurai.

Rama bana rabi ue janaki, tama barutha kaha jatudhana ki.1.

Meaning: Had the Hero of raghu’s line any news about You, the Lord of the raghus would not have tarried. The moment Sri Rama’s arrows make their appearance like the sun, the demon host would be scattered like the shadows of night.

abahi matu mai jau lavai, prabhu ayasu nahi Rama dohai.

kachuka divasa janani dharu dhira, kapinha sahita aihahi raghubira.2.

Meaning: Mother, I would take You to Him this very moment; but, I swear by Rama, I have no such orders from the Lord. Therefore, wait patiently for some days more, mother, till the Hero of raghu’s line arrives with the troops of monkeys.

nisichara mari tohi lai jaihahi, tihu pura naradadi jasu gaihahi.

hai suta kapi saba tumhahi samana, jatudhana ati bhata balavana.3.

Meaning: Slaughtering the demons, He will take You away; while Narada and the other sages will glorify Him in all the three spheres of creation. But, my son, all the monkeys must be pygmies like you, whereas the demons are mighty and great warriors.

more hridaya paRama sandeha, suni kapi pragata kinhi nija deha.

kanaka bhudharakara sarira, samara bhayankara atibala bira.4.

Meaning: I have grave misgivings in my heart on this score. On hearing this the monkey revealed His natural form, colossal as a mountain of gold, terrible in battle, possessing great might and full of valour.

sita mana bharosa taba bhayau, puni laghu rupa pavanasuta layau.5.

Meaning: Sita now took comfort in Her heart and the son of the wind-god thereupon resumed his diminutive appearance.(1-5)

Doha: sunu mata sakhamriga nahi bala buddhi bisala,

prabhu pratapa te garurahi khai parama laghu byala.16.

Meaning: Listen, mother: monkeys possess no great strength or intelligence either; but, through the Lord’s might, the most tiny snake might swallow Garuda (the king of birds and the mount of Bhagavan Vishnu).(16)

Chaupai: mana santosha sunata kapi bani, bhagati pratapa teja bala sani.

asisha dinhi Ramapriya jana, hohu tata bala sila nidhana.1.

Meaning: Sita felt gratified at heart even as she heard the monkey’s words full of devotion and revealing Sri Rama’s majesty, glory and strength. recognizing him as the beloved of Sri Rama She gave him Her blessing: May you become a repository of strength and virtue, dear child.

ajara amara gunanidhi suta hohu, karahu bahuta raghunayaka chohu.

karahu kripa prabhu asa suni kana, nirbhara prema magana hanumana.2.

Meaning: May you ever remain immune from old age and death and prove to be a store house of good qualities, my son; and may the Lord of the raghus shower His abundant grace on you. The moment the words May the Lord be gracious to you reached his ears Hanuman was utterly overwhelmed with emotion.

bara bara naisi pada sisa, bola bachana jori kara kisa.

aba kritakritya bhayau mai mata, asisha tava amogha bikhyata.3.

Meaning: Hanuman Ji bowed several times in the feet of Sita Ji and said with joining hands – Oh mother! now I am gratified. It is famous that your blessings are effectual.

sunahu matu mohi atisaya bhukha, lagi dekhi sundara phala rukha.

sunu suta karahi bipina rakhavari, parama subhata rajanichara bhari.4.

Meaning: Listen, mother: I am feeling frightfully hungry at the sight of these trees laden with delicious fruits. I tell you, my son, this grove is guarded by most valiant and mighty demons.

tinha kara bhaya mata mohi nahi, jau tumha sukha manahu mana mahi.5.

Meaning: Mother, I am not at all afraid of them, only if I have your hearty approval.(1-5)

Doha: dekhi buddhi bala nipuna kapi kaheu janaki jahu,

raghupati carana hridaya dhari tata madhura phala khahu.17.

Meaning: Seeing the monkey perfect in strength and wit, Janaka’s Daughter said, Go, my son, and enjoy the luscious fruit with your heart fixed on Sri Rama’s feet.(17)

Chaupai: chaleu nai siru paitheu baga, phala khrisi taru torai laga.

rahe taha bahu bhata rakhavare, kachu maresi kachu jai pukare.1.

Meaning: Bowing his head he went forth and entered the grove; and having eaten the fruit he began to break down the trees. A number of warriors had been posted there as guards; some of them were killed by him, while the rest took flight and cried for help

natha eka ava kapi bhari, tehi asoka batika ujari.

khaesi phala aru bitapa upare, racchaka mardi mardi mahi daare.2.

Meaning: O lord, a huge monkey has made his appearance and laid waste the Asoka grove. He has eaten fruits, uprooted trees, and, having crushed the watchmen, has laid them on the ground.

suni ravana pathai bhata nana, tinhahi dekhi garjeu hanumana.

saba rajanichara kapi sanghare, gae pukarata kachu adhamare.3.

Meaning: On hearing this, ravana dispatched a number of his champions. Hanuman roared when he saw them and slaughtered the whole demon host. A few that had survived though well-nigh killed, escaped screaming.

puni pathayau tehi acchakumara, chala sanga lai subhata apara.

avata dekhi bitapa gahi tarja, tahi nipati mahadhuni garja.4.

Meaning: ravana then sent prince Akshay, who sallied forth with a vast number of his best warriors. Seeing them approach, Hanuman seized a tree and threatened them and, having overthrown the prince, roared with a loud yell.(1-4)

Doha: kachu maresi kachu mardesi kachu milrisi dhari dhuri,

kachu puni jai pukare prabhu markata bala bhuri.18.

Meaning: Some he slew, some he crushed and some he seized and pounded with dust. And some who escaped cried, O lord, the monkey is too strong for us.(18)

Chaupai: suni suta badha lankesa risana, pathaisi meghanada balavana.

marasi jani suta ba dhesu tahi, dekhia kapihi kaha kara ahi.1.

Meaning: The King of Lanka flew into a rage when he heard of his son’s death and sent the mighty Meghanada. Kill him not, my son, but bind him. Let us see the monkey and ascertain where from he comes.

chala indrajita atulita jodha, bandhu nidhana suni upaja krodha.

kapi dekha daruna bhata ava, katakatai garja aru dhava.2.

Meaning: Meghanada (the conqueror of Indra) sallied forth, a peerless champion, seized with fury at the news of his brother’s death. When Hanuman saw this fierce warrior approach, he gnashed his teeth and with a roar rushed forward to meet him.

ati bisala taru eka upara, biratha kinha lankesa kumara.

rahe mahabhata take sanga, gahi gahi kapi mardai nija anga.3.

Meaning: He tore up a tree of enormous size and smashed with it the car, thus rendering the crown prince of Lanka without any transport. As for the mighty warriors who accompanied him, Hanuman seized them one by one and crushed them by the weight of his limbs.

tinhahi nipati tahi sana baja, bhire jugala manahu gajaraja.

muthika mari charha taru jai, tahi eka chhana murucha aai.4.

Meaning: Having finished them off, he closed with Meghanada. It was like the encounter of two lordly elephants. Striking the opponent with his clenched fist, Hanuman sprang and climbed up a tree; while Meghanada lay unconscious for a moment.

uthi bahori kinhisi bahu maya, jiti na jai prabhanjana jaya.5.

Meaning: He rose again and resorted to many a delusive device; but the son of the wind-god was not to be vanquished.(1-5)

Doha: brahma astra tehi sa dha kapi mana kinha bichara,

jau na brahmastra manau mahima mitai apara.19.

Meaning: Meghanada ultimately fitted to his bow the arrow known as Brahmastra (the weapon presided over by Brahma), when Hanuman thought within himself: If I submit not to Brahma’s own weapon, its infinite glory will be cast to the winds.(19)

Chaupai: brahmabana kapi kahu tehi mara, paratihu bara kataku sanghara.

tehi dekha kapi muruchhita bhayau, nagapasa bandhesi lai gayau.1.

Meaning: He launched the Brahmastra against Hanuman, who crushed a whole host even as he fell. When he saw that the monkey had swooned, he entangled the latter in a noose of serpents and carried him off.

jasu nama japi sunahu bhavani,bhava bandhana katahi nara gyani.

tasu duta ki bandha taru ava, prabhu karaja lagi kapihi bandhava.2.

Meaning: Now, Parvati, is it conceivable that the envoy of the Lord whose very name enables the wise to cut asunder the bonds of mundane existence should come under bondage? No, it was in the service of the Lord that Hanuman allowed himself to be bound.

kapi bandhana suni nisichara dhaye, kautuka lagi sabha saba aye.

dasamukha sabha dikhi kapi jai, kahi na jai kachu ati prabhutai.3.

Meaning: When the demons heard that the monkey had been captured and noosed, they all rushed to the court in order to enjoy the spectacle. The monkey arrived and saw ravana’s court: his superb glory baffled description.

kara jore sura disipa binita, bhrikuti bilokata sakala sabhita.

dekhi pratapa na kapi mana sanka, jimi ahigana mahu garura asanka.4.

Meaning: Even gods and regents of the quarters stood meek with joined palms, all watching the movement of his eyebrows in great dismay. But the monkey’s soul was no more disturbed at the sight of his power than Garuda (the king of birds) would be frightened in the midst of a number of serpents.(1-4)

Doha: kapihi biloki dasanana bihasa kahi durbada,

suta badha surati kinhi puni upaja hridaya bishada.20.

Meaning: When the ten-headed monster saw the monkey he laughed and railed at him. But presently he recalled his son’s death and felt sad at heart.(20)

Chaupai: kaha lankesa kavana tai kisa, kehi ke bala ghalehi bana khisa.

ki dhau sravana sunehi nahi mohi, dekhau ati asanka satha tohi.1

Meaning: Said the king of Lanka, Who are you, monkey, and by whose might have you wrought the destruction of the grove? What, did you never hear my name? I see you are an exceptionally bold wretch.

mare nisichara kehi aparadha, kahu satha tohi na prana kai badha.

sunu ravana brahmanda nikaya, pai jasu bala birachati maya.2.

Meaning: For what offence did you kill the demons? Tell me, fool, are you not afraid of losing your life? Listen, ravana: recall Him by whose might Maya (Nature) brings forth numberless universes

jake bala biranchi hari isa, palata Srijata harata dasasisa.

ja bala sisa dharata sahasanana, andakosa sameta giri kanana.3.

Meaning: by whose might, O ten-headed monster, Brahma, Hari (Vishnu) and Shiva carry on their respective function of creation, preservation and destruction; by whose might the thousand-headed serpent (sesha) supports on his head the entire globe with its mountains and forests

dharai jo bibidha deha suratrata, tumha se sathanha sikhavanu data.

hara kodanda kathina jehi bhanja, tehi sameta nripa dala mada ganja.4.

Meaning: who assumes various forms in order to protect the gods and teach a lesson to wretches like you; who broke Shiva’s unbending bow and crushed with it the pride of a host of princess

khara dushana trisira aru bali, badhe sakala atulita balasali.5.

Meaning: who despatched Khara, Dushana, Trisira and bali, all unequalled in strength.(1-5)

Doha: jake bala lavalesa te jitehu charachara jhari,

tasu duta main ja katri hari anehu priya nari.21.

Meaning: By an iota of whose might you were able to conquer the entire creation, both animate and inanimate, and whose beloved spouse has been stolen away by you. Know me to be His envoy.(21)

Chaupai: janau mai tumhari prabhutai, sahasabahu sana pari larai.

samara bali sana kari jasu pava, suni kapi bachana bihasi biharava.1.

Meaning: I am aware of your glory: you had an encounter with Sahasrabahu and won distinction in your contest with Bali.† Ravana heard the words of Hanuman but laughed them away.

khayau phala prabhu lagi bhukha, kapi subhava te toreu rukha.

saba ke deha paRama priya swami, marahi mohi kumaraga gami.2.

Meaning: . I ate the fruit because I felt hungry and broke the boughs as a monkey is wont to do. One’s body, my master, is supremely dear to all; yet those wicked fellows would insist on be laboring me, so that I had no course left but to return their blows.

jinha mohi mara te mai mare, tehi para badheu tanaya tumhare.

mohi na kachu bandhe kai laja, kinha chahau nija prabhu kara kaja.3.

Meaning: Still your son (Meghanada) put me in bonds; but I am not at all ashamed of being bound, keen as I am to serve the cause of my lord.

binati karau jori kara ravana, sunahu mana taji mora sikhavana.

dekhahu tumha nija kulahi bichari, bhrama taji bhajahu bhagata bhaya hari.4

Meaning: I implore you with joined palms, ravana: give up your haughtiness and heed my advice. Think of your lineage and view things in that perspective; in any case disillusion yourself and adore Him who dispels the fear of His devotees.

jake dara ati kala derai, jo sura asura charachara khai.

taso bayaru kabahu nahi kijai, more kahe janaki dijai.5.

Meaning: Never antagonize Him who is a source of terror even to Death, that devours all created beings, both animate and inanimate, gods as well as demons. And return Janaka’s Daughter at my request.(1-5)

Doha: pranatapala raghunayaka karuna sindhu kharari,

giri sarana prabhu rakhihai tava aparadha bisari.22.

Meaning: Lord Sri Rama, the Slayer of Khara, is a protector of the suppliant and an ocean of compassion. Forgetting your offences, He will give you shelter if you but turn to Him for protection.(22)

Chaupai: Rama charana pankaja ura dharahu, lanka achala raju tumha karahu.

rishi pulasti jasu bimala mayanka, tehi sasi mahu jani hohu kalanka.1.

Meaning: Install the image of Sri Rama’s lotus feet in your heart and enjoy the uninterrupted sovereignty of Lanka. The glory of the sage Pulastya (your grandfather) shines like the moon without its spot; be not a speck in that moon.

Rama nama binu gira na soha, dekhu bichari tyagi mada moha.

basana hina nahi soha surari, saba bhushana bhushita bara nari.2.

Meaning: Speech is charmless without Sri Rama’s name. Ponder and see for yourself, casting aside arrogance and infatuation. A fair lady without clothes, O enemy of gods, does not commend herself even though adorned with all kinds of jewels.

Rama bimukha sanpati prabhutai, jai rahi pai binu pai.

sajala mula jinha saritanha nahi, barashi gae puni tabahi sukhahi.3.

Meaning: The fortune and lordship of a man who is hostile to Rama eventually leave him even if they stay a while, and are as good as lost if acquired a new.

sunu dasakantha kahau pana ropi, bimukha Rama trata nahi kopi.

sankara sahasa bishnu aja tohi, sakahi na rakhi Rama kara drohi.4.

Meaning: Listen, O ten-headed ravana, I tell you on oath: there is none to save him who is opposed to Sri Rama. Shankara, Vishnu and Brahma in their thousands are unable to protect you, an enemy of Sri Rama.(1-4)

Doha: mohamula bahu sula prada tyagahu tama abhimana,

bhajahu Rama raghunayaka kripa sindhu bhagavana.23.

Meaning: Abandon pride, which is the same as Tamoguna (darkness), rooted as it is in ignorance and is a source of considerable pain; and adore Lord Sri Rama, the Chief of the raghus and an ocean of compassion.(23)

Chaupai: jadapi kahi kapi ati hita bani, bhagati bibeka birati naya sani.

bola bihasi maha abhimani, mila hamahi kapi gura bara gyani.1.

Meaning: Although Hanuman gave him exceedingly salutary advice, full of devotion, discretion, dispassion and wisdom, the most haughty ravana laughed and said, We have found a most wise Guru in this monkey !

mrityu nikata ai khala tohi, lagesi adhama sikhavana mohi.

ulata hoihi kaha hanumana, matibhRama tora pragata mai jana.2.

Meaning: Death hangs over your head, O wretch; that is why you have started exhorting me, O vile monkey. Just the contrary is going to happen; retorted Hanuman. I clearly perceive that you are laboring under some mental illusion.

suni kapi bachana bahuta khisiana, begi na harahu murha kara prana.

sunata nisachara marana dhae, sachivanha sahita bibhishanu aye.3.

Meaning: Hearing these words of Hanuman ravana got nettled. Why not some of you quickly kill this fool? As soon as the demons heard it, they rushed forward to kill him. That very moment came Vibhishana (ravana’s youngest brother) with his counsellors.

nai sisa kari binaya bahuta, niti birodha na maria duta.

ana danda kachu karia gosai, sabahi kaha mantra bhala bhai.4.

Meaning: Bowing his head he made humble entreaty: It is against all statecraft: an envoy must not be killed. He may be punished in some other way, my master. All exclaimed to one another, This is sound counsel, brother.

sunata bihasi bola dasakandhara, anga bhanga kari pathai bandara.5.

Meaning: Hearing this the ten-headed ravana laughed and said, All right, the monkey may be sent back mutilated.(1-5)

Doha: kapi ke mamata pu cha para sabahi kahau samujhai,

tela bori pata ba dhi puni pavaka dehu lagai.24.

Meaning: A monkey is very fond of his tail: I tell you this secret. Therefore, swathe his tail with rags soaked in oil and then set fire to it.(24)

Chaupai: punchhahina banara taha jaihi, taba satha nija nathahi lai aihi.

jinha kai kinhisi bahuta barai, dekhau mai tinha kai prabhutai.1.

Meaning: When the tailless monkey will go back, the wretch will bring his master with him, and I shall have an opportunity of seeing his might, whom he has so lavishly exalted.

bachana sunata kapi mana musukana, bhai sahaya sarada mai jana.

jatudhana suni ravana bachana, lage rachai murha soi racana.2.

Meaning: Hanuman smiled to himself on hearing these words. Goddess sarada has proved helpful to me, I believe. On hearing ravana’s command the stupid demons started doing as they were bid.

raha na nagara basana ghrita tela, barhi punchha kinha kapi khela.

kautuka kaha aaye purabasi, marahi charana karahi bahu ha si.3.

Meaning: I believe. On hearing ravana’s command the stupid demons started doing as they were bid. Not a rag was left in the city nor a drop of ghee (clarified butter) or oil, the tail had grown to such a length through Hanuman’s playful gesture. The citizens thronged to see the fun; they kicked Hanuman and jeered much at him.

bajahi dhola dehi saba tari, nagara pheri puni puchha prajari.

pavaka jarata dekhi hanumanta, bhayau parama laghurupa turanta.4.

Meaning: With beating of drums and clapping of hands they took him round the city and then set fire to his tail. When Hanuman saw the fire blazing, he immediately assumed an utterly diminutive size

nibuki charheu kapi kanaka atari, bhai sabhita nisachara nari.5.

Meaning: and slipping out of his bonds sprang to the attics of the gold palace, to the dismay of the demonesses.(1-5)

Doha: hari prerita tehi avasara chale maruta unchasa,

attahasa kari garja kapi barhi laga akasa.25.

Meaning: At that moment, impelled by God, all the forty-nine winds began to bluster. Hanuman roared with a loud laugh and swelled to such a size that he seemed to touch the sky.(25)

Chaupai: deha bisala parama haruai, mandira te mandira charha dhai.

jarai nagara bha loga bihala, jhapata lapata bahu koti karala.1.

Meaning: Though colossal in size, Hanuman appeared most nimble-bodied; he ran and sprang from palace to palace. The city was all ablaze and the people were at their wit’s end.

tata matu ha sunia pukara, ehiavasara ko hamahi ubara.

hama jo kaha yaha kapi nahi hoi, banara rupa dhare sura koi.2.

Meaning: Terrible flames burst forth in myriads and piteous cries were heard everywhere: O father ! Ah, my mother ! Who will save us at this hour? As I said, he is no monkey but some god in the form of a monkey.

sadhu avagya kara phalu aisa, jarai nagara anatha kara jaisa.

jara nagaru nimisha eka mahi, eka bibhishana kara griha nahi.3.

Meaning: Such is the result of despising a noble soul: the city is being consumed by fire as though it had no master. In the twinking of an eye Hanuman burnt down the whole city barring the solitary house of Vibhishana.

ta kara duta anala jehi sirija, jara na so tehi karana girija.

ulati palati lanka saba jari, kudi para puni sindhu majhari.4.

Meaning: Parvati, (continues Lord Shiva,) Hanuman went unscathed because he was the messenger of Him who created fire itself. He burnt the whole of Lanka from one end to the other and then leapt into the ocean.(1-4)

Doha: pucha bujhai khoi shrama dhari laghu rupa bahori,

janakasuta ke age thad bhayau kara jori.26.

Meaning: After quenching his tail and relieving his fatigue he resumed his diminutive form and stood before Janaka’s Daughter with joined palms.(26)

Chaupai: matu mohi dije kachhu chinha, jaise raghunayaka mohi dinha.

churamani utari taba dayau, harasha sameta pavanasuta layau.1.

Meaning: Be pleased, Mother, to give me some token, such as the Lord of the raghus gave me. She there upon unfastened the jewel on Her head and gave it to the son of the wind god, who gladly received it.

kahehu tata asa mora pranama, saba prakara prabhu puranakama.

dina dayala biridu sambhari, harahu natha mama sankata bhari.2.

Meaning: Convey my obeisance to Him, dear son, with these words: My lord is all sufficient; yet recalling Your vow of kindness to the afflicted, relieve, O master, my grievous distress.’ repeat to him, my son, the episode of Indra’s son (Jayanta) and remind the Lord of the might of His arrows

tata sakrasuta katha sunaehu, bana pratapa prabhuhi samujhaehu.

masa divasa mahu nathu na ava, tou puni mohi jiata nahi pava.3

Meaning: If the Lord does not arrive here within a month, he will not find me alive. Tell me, Hanuman, how can I preserve my life; for you too, my son, now speak of going

kahu kapi kehi bidhi rakhau prana, tumhahu tata kahata aba jana.

tohi dekhi sitali bhai chhati, puni mo kahu soi dinu so rati.4.

Meaning: Your sight had brought relief to my heavy heart: I have before me now the same dreary days and weary nights.(1-4)

Doha: janakasutahi samujhai kari bahu bidhi dhiraju dinha,

charana kamala siru nai kapi gavanu Rama pahi kinha.27.

Meaning: Reassuring Janaka’s Daughter he consoled Her in many ways and, bowing his head at Her lotus feet, set forth to meet Sri Rama.(27)

Chaupai: chalata mahadhuni garjesi bhari, garbha sravahi suni nisichara nari.

naghi sindhu ehi parahi ava, sabada kilikila kapinha sunava.1.

Meaning: While leaving he roared aloud with such a terrible noise that the wives of the demons mis carried. Taking a leap across the ocean he reached the opposite shore and greeted his fellow-monkeys with a shrill cry of joy

harashe saba biloki hanumana, nutana janma kapinha taba jana.

mukha prasanna tana teja biraja, kinhesi Ramachandra kara kaja.2.

Meaning: They were all delighted to see Hanuman and felt as if they had been born anew. He wore a cheerful countenance and his body shone with a brilliance which left no doubt in their mind that he had executed Sri Ramachandra’s commission.

mile sakala ati bhae sukhari, talaphata mina pava jimi bari.

chale harashi raghunayaka pasa, puchhata kahata navala itihasa.3.

Meaning: They all met him and felt as delighted as a fish writhing with agony for lack of water would feel on getting it. They then gladly proceeded to see the Lord of the raghus, asking and telling the latest events.

taba madhubana bhitara saba aye, angada sanmata madhu phala khae.

rakhavare jaba barajana lage, mushti prahara hanata saba bhage.4.

Meaning: On their way they all entered Sugriva’s garden called Madhuvana and with Angada’s consent began to eat the luscious fruit. When the guards interfered, they were beaten with fists till they took to their heels.(1-4)

Doha: jai pukare te sab ban ujaar jubraj,

suni sugriva harasha kapi kari aye prabhu kaja.28.

Meaning: They all approached Sugruiva and complained that the Crown Prince was laying waste the royal garden. Sugriva rejoiced to hear this; for he concluded that the monkeys must have returned after accomplishing the Lord’s business.(28)

Chaupai: jau na hoti sita sudhi pai, madhubana ke phala sakahi ki khai.

ehi bidhi mana bichara kara raja, ai gyi kapi sahita samaja.1.

Meaning: If they had failed to get any news of Sita, they could never dare to eat the fruit of Madhuvana. While the king was thus musing, the monkey chiefs arrived with their party.

ai sabanhi nava pada sisa, mileu sabanhi ati prema kapisa.

puchhi kusala kusala pada dekhi, Rama kripa bha kaju biseshi.2.

Meaning: Drawing near they all bowed their head at his feet and the lord of the monkeys received them all most cordially and enquired after their welfare .

natha kaju kinheu hanumana, rakhe sakala kapinha ke prana.

suni sugriva bahuri tehi mileu, kapinha sahita raghupati pahi chaleu.3.

Meaning: It is well with us, now that we have seen your feet. By Rama’s grace the work has been accomplished with remarkable success. It is Hanuman, Your Majesty, who did everything and saved the life of the whole monkey host. Hearing this Sugriva embraced him again and then proceeded with all the monkeys to see the Lord of the raghus.

Rama kapinha jaba avata dekha, kie kaju mana harasha bisesha.

phatika sila baithe dvau bhai, pare sakala kapi charananhi jai.4.

Meaning: When Sri Rama saw the monkeys approaching with their mission duly accomplished, He was particularly delighted at heart. The two brothers were seated on a crystal rock and all the monkeys went and fell at Their feet.(1-4)

Doha: priti sahita saba bhete raghupati karuna punja,

puchi kusala natha aba kusala dekhi pada kanja.29.

Meaning: The all-merciful Lord of the raghus embraced them all with affection and asked of their welfare. All is well with us, now that we have seen Your lotus feet.(29)

Chaupai: jamavanta kaha sunu raghuraya, ja para natha karahu tumha daya.

tahi sada subha kusala nirantara, sura nara muni prasanna ta upara.1.

Meaning: Said Jambavant, Listen, O Lord of the raghus: he on whom You bestow Your blessings is ever lucky and incessantly happy; gods, human beings and sages are all kind to him.

soi bijai binai guna sagara, tasu sujasu trailoka ujagara.

prabhu ki kripa bhayau sabu kaju, janma hamara suphala bha aju.2.

Meaning: He alone is victorious, modest and an ocean of virtues; his fair renown shines brightly through all the three spheres of creation. Everything has turned out well by the grace of my Lord; it is only today that our birth has been consummated

natha pavanasuta kinhi jo karani, sahasahu mukha na jai so barani.

pavanatanaya ke charita suhae, jamavanta raghupatihi sunae.3.

Meaning: The achievement of Hanuman (the son of the wind-god) cannot be described even with a thousand tongues. Jambavan then related to the Lord of the raghus the charming exploits of Hanuman (the son of the wind-god).

sunata kripanidhi mana ati bhae, puni hanumana harashi hiya lae.

kahahu tata kehi bhati janaki, rahati karati raccha svaprana ki.4.

Meaning: The All-merciful felt much delighted at heart to hear them and in His joy He clasped Hanuman once more to His bosom. Tell me, dear Hanuman, how does Janaka’s daughter pass her days and sustain her life?(1-4)

Doha: nama paharu divasa nisi dhyana tumhara kapata,

lochana nija pada jantrita jahi prana kehi bata.30.

Meaning: Your Name keeps watch night and day, while Her continued thought of You acts as a pair of closed doors. She has Her eyes fastened on Her own feet; Her life thus finds no outlet whereby to escape.(30)

Chaupai: chalata mohi churamani dinhi, raghupati hridaya lai soi linhi.

natha jugala lochana bhari bari, bachana kahe kachu janakakumari.1

Meaning: When I was leaving, She gave me this jewel from the top of Her head. The Lord of the raghus took it and pressed it to His bosom. My lord, with tears in both Her eyes Janaka’s Daughter uttered the following few words:

anuja sameta gahehu prabhu charana, dina bandhu pranatarati harana.

mana krama bachana charana anuragi, kehi aparadha natha hau tyagi.2.

Meaning: Embrace the feet of my lord and His younger brother crying; O befriender of the distressed, reliever of the suppliant’s agony, I am devoted to Your feet in thought, word and deed; yet for what offence, my lord, have You forsaken me?

avaguna eka mora mai mana, bichurata prana na kinha payana.

natha so nayananhi ko aparadha, nisarata prana karahi hathi badha.3.

Meaning: I do admit one fault of mine, that my life did not depart the moment I was separated from You. That, however, my lord, is the fault of my eyes, which forcibly prevent my life from escaping.

Biraha agini tanu tool sameera, swaas jarai chhan maahin sareera.

Nayan sravahin jalun nija hita laagi, jarein na paanv deha birhaagi.

Meaning: he agony of separation from You is like fire, my sighs fan it as a gust of wind and in between stands my body like a heap of cotton, which

would ave been consumed in an instant. But my eyes, in their own interest (i.e., for being enabled to feast themselves on Your beauty) rain a flood of tears; that is why the body fails to catch the fire of desolation.

sita kai ati bipati bisala, binahi kahe bhali dinadayala.5.

Meaning: Sita’s distress is so overwhelmingly great, and You are so compassionate to the afflicted, that it is better not to describe it. (1-5)

Doha: nimisha nimisha karunanidhi jahi kalapa sama biti,

begi chali prabhu ani bhuja bala khala dala jiti.31.

Meaning: Each single moment, O fountain of mercy, passes like an age to Her. Therefore, march quickly, my lord, and vanquishing the miscreant crew by Your mighty arm, recover her.(31)

Chaupai: suni sita dukha prabhu sukha ayana, bhari aei jala rajiva nayana.

bachana kaya mana mama gati jahi, sapanehu bujhi bipati ki tahi.1.

Meaning: When the all-blissful Lord heard of Sita’s agony, tears rushed to his lotus eyes. Do you think anyone who depends on me in thought, word and deed can ever dream of adversity?

Keh Hanumanta bipati prabhu soyi, jab tav sumiran bhajan na hoyi.

Ketik baat prabhu jaatudhaan ki, ripuhi jeeti aanibi jaanki.

Meaning: Said Hanuman: There is no misfortune other than ceasing to remember and adore You. Of what account are the demons to You? routing the enemy You will surely bring back Janaka’s Daughter.

sunu kapi tohi samana upakari, nahi kou sura nara muni tanudhari.

prati upakara karau ka tora, sanamukha hoi na sakata mana mora.3.

Meaning: No one endowed with a body-a god, human being or sage -has put me under such obligation, Hanuman, as you have done. Even my mind shrinks to face you; how, then, can I repay your obligation? Listen, my son: I have thought over the question and concluded that the debt which I owe you cannot be repaid.

sunu suta tohi urina mai nahi, dekhe kari bicara mana mahi.

puni puni kapihi chitava suratrata, lochana nira pulaka ati gata.4.

Meaning: Again and again as the Protector of the gods gazed on Hanuman His eyes filled with tears and His body was overpowered with a thrill of emotion.(1-4)

Doha: suni prabhu bachana biloki mukha gata harashi hanumanta,

charan pareu premakul trahi trahi bhagavanta.32.

Meaning: Even as Hanuman listened to the words of his lord and gazed on His countenance he experienced a thrill of joy all over his body and fell at His feet, overwhelmed with love and crying: Save me, save me (from the tentacles of egoism), my lord.(32)

Chaupai: bara bara prabhu chahai uthava, prema magana tehi uthaba na bhava.

prabhu kara pankaja kapi ke sisa, sumiri so dasa magana gaurisa.1.

Meaning: Again and again the Lord sought to raise him up; he, however, was so absorbed in love that he would not rise. The lotus hand of the Lord rested on his head. Gauri’s lord (Shiva) was overcome with emotion as He called to mind Hanuman’s enviable lot.

savadhana mana kari puni sankara, lage kahana katha ati sundara.

kapi uthai prabhu hridaya lagava, kara gahi parama nikata baithava.2.

Meaning: But, recovering Himself, Shiva resumed the most charming narrative. The Lord lifted up Hanuman and clasped him to His bosom; then He took him by the hand and seated him very close to Him.

kahu kapi ravana palita lanka, kehi bidhi daheu durga ati banka.

prabhu prasanna jana hanumana, bola bachana bigata abhimana.3.

Meaning: Tell me, Hanuman, how could you burn ravana’s stronghold of Lanka, a most impregnable fortress? When Hanuman found the Lord so pleased, he replied in words altogether free from pride.

sakhamriga kai badi manusai, sakha te sakha para jai.

naghisindhu hatakapura jara, nisichara gana badhi bipina ujara.4.

Meaning: A monkey’s greatest valour lies in his skipping about from one bough to another. That I should have been able to leap across the ocean, burn the gold city, kill the demon host and lay waste the Asoka grove was all due to Your might; no credit

so saba tava pratapa raghurai, natha na kachhu mori prabhutai.5.

Meaning: my lord, is due to me for the same.

Doha: ta kahu prabhu kachu agama nahi ja para tumha anukula,

tava prabhava baravanalahi jari sakai khalu tula.33.

Meaning: Nothing is unattainable, my lord, to him who enjoys Your grace. Through Your might a mere shred of cotton can surely burn a submarine fire (the impossible can be made possible).(33)

Chaupai: natha bhagati ati sukhadayani, dehu kripa kari anapayani.

suni prabhu parama sarala kapi bani, evamastu taba kaheu bhavani.1.

Meaning: Therefore, be pleased, my lord, to grant me unceasing Devotion, which is a source of supreme bliss. When the Lord, O Parvati, heard the most artless speech of Hanuman He said, Be it so !

umarama subhau jehi jana, tahi bhajanu taji bhava na ana.

yaha sambada jasu ura ava, raghupati charana bhagati soi pava.2.

Meaning: Uma , he who has come to know the true nature of Rama can have no relish for anything other than His worship. Even he who takes this dialogue (between Sri Rama and Hanuman) to heart is blessed with devotion to Sri Rama’s feet

suni prabhu bachana kahahi kapi brinda, jaya jaya jaya kripala sukhakanda.

taba raghupati kapipatihi bolava, kaha chalai kara karahu banava.3.

Meaning: On hearing the words of the Lord the whole host of monkeys cried, Glory, glory, all glory It should be remembered in this connection that Lord Shiva Himself had taken the form of Hanuman. It was, therefore, easy for Him to recall that thrilling experience to the gracious Lord, the fountain of bliss ! The Lord of the raghus then summoned Sugriva (the King of the monkeys) and said, Make preparations for the march.

aba bilambu kehi karana kije, turata kapinha kahu ayasu dije.

kautuka dekhi sumana bahu barashi, nabha te bhavana chale sura harashi.4.

Meaning: Why should we tarry any longer? Issue orders to the monkeys at once. The gods who were witnessing the spectacle rained down flowers in profusion and then gladly withdrew from the lower air to their own celestial

Doha: kapipati begi bolaye aaye juthap juth,

nana barana atula bala banara bhalu barutha.34.

Meaning: Sugriva (the lord of the monkeys) quickly summoned the commanders of the various troops and they presented themselves in multitudes. The troops of monkeys and bears, though varying in colour, were all unequalled in strength.(34)

Chaupai: prabhu pada pankaja navahi sisa, garjahi bhalu mahabala kisa.

dekhi Rama sakala kapi sena, chitai kripa kari rajiva naina.1.

Meaning: The mighty bears and monkeys bowed their head at the Lord’s lotus feet and roared. Sri Rama surveyed the whole monkey host and cast on them His gracious lotus-like eyes

Rama kripa bala pai kapinda, bhae pacchajuta manahu girinda.

harashi Rama taba kinha payana, saguna bhae sundara subha nana.2.

Meaning: Emboldened by His grace the monkey chiefs vied as it were with huge mountains equipped with wings. Sri Rama then sallied forth glad of heart and many were delightful and auspicious omens that occurred to Him .

jasu sakala mangalamaya kiti, tasu payana saguna yaha niti.

prabhu payana jana baidehi, pharaki bama aga janu kahi dehi.3.

Meaning: It was in the fitness of things that good omens should appear at the time of His departure (on an expedition) whose glory itself embodies all blessings. Videha’s Daughter came to know of the Lord’s march; the throbbing of Her left limbs apprised Her of the same as it were.

joi joi saguna janakihi hoi, asaguna bhayau ravanahi soi.

chala kataku ko baranai para, garjahi banara bhalu apara.4.

Meaning: But what were good omens for Janaka’s Daughter foreboded evil for ravana. Who could adequately describe the army as it marched with its countless monkeys and bears roaring. With no weapon other than their sharp claws, they carried rocks and trees

(that they had uprooted on the way) and marched now in the air and now on land,

nakha ayudha giri padapadhari, chale gagana mahi icchachari.

keharinada bhalu kapi karahi, dagamagahi diggaja chikkarahi.5.

Meaning: for they had unhampered motion everywhere. The bears and monkeys roared like lions as they marched, while the elephants guarding the eight cardinal points shook and trumpeted.(1-5)

Chan.: chikkarahi diggaja dola mahi giri lola sagara kharabhare,

mana harasha sabha gandharba sura muni naga kinnara dukha tare.

katakatahi markata bikata bhata bahu koti kotinha dhavahi,

jaya Rama prabala pratapa kosalanatha guna gana gavahi.1.

Meaning: The elephants of the eight cardinal points trumpeted, the earth rocked, the mountains trembled and the oceans were agitated. The Gandharvas, gods, sages,Nagas and Kinnaras, all felt delighted at heart to perceive that their troubles were over. Myriads of formidable monkey warriors gnashed their teeth (in a bellicose mood); while many more millions dashed forward crying Glory to Sri Rama, Kosala’s lord, of mighty valour and hymning His praises.

sahi saka na bhara udara ahipati bara barahi mohai,

gaha dasana puni puni kamatha prishta kathora so kimi sohai.

raghubira rucira prayana prasthiti jani paRama suhavani,

janu kamatha kharpara sarparaja so likhata abicala pavani.2.

Meaning: Even the great lord of serpents (sesha) found himself unable to bear the crushing weight of the belligerent troops and felt dizzy again and again. But each time he would struggle by clutching with his teeth the hard shell of the divine Tortoise. The scratches thus made by his teeth would make one imagine as if, knowing the departure of Sri Rama (the Hero of raghu’s line) on His glorious expedition to be a most attractive theme, the serpent-king was inscribing its immortal and sacred story on the Tortoise’s back.(1-2)

Doha: ehi bidhi jai kripanidhi utare sagara tira,

jaha taha lage khana phala bhalu bipula kapi bira.35.

Meaning: Continuing His march in this way the All-merciful arrived at the seashore and halted there. The host of valiant bears and monkeys began to guttle fruits all round there. (35)

Chaupai: uha nisachar rahahi sasanka, jab te jari gayau kapi lanka.

nija nija griha saba karahi bichara, nahi nisichara kula kera ubara.1.

Meaning: Ever since Hanuman left after burning down Lanka the demons there had lived in constant terror. In their own houses they thought, There is no hope for the demon race now.

jasu duta bala barani na jai, tehi aaye pur kavan bhalai.

dotinha sana suni purajana bani, mandodari adhik akulani.2.

Meaning: If his messenger was mighty beyond words, what good would result when the master himself enters the city? When Mandodari (ravana’s principal queen) heard from her female spies what the citizens were saying, she felt much perturbed.

rahasi jori kar pati paga lagi, boli bachan niti ras pagi.

kant karas hari sana pariharahu, mora kaha ati hit hiye dharahu.3.

Meaning: If his messenger was mighty beyond words, what good would result when the master himself enters the city? When Mandodari (ravana’s principal queen) heard from her female spies what the citizens were saying, she felt much perturbed.

samujhatu jasu duta kai karni, stravahigarbha rajanichar gharani.

tasu nari nija sachiva bolai, pathavahu kant jo chahau bhalai.4.

Meaning: Meeting her lord in seclusion she fell at his feet and with joined palms addressed to him words steeped in wisdom: My lord, avoid all strife with Sri Hari. Take my words to your heart as a most salutary advice. My lord, if you seek your own welfare, call one of your ministers and send back with him the consort of that prince (Sri Rama), the very thought of whose messenger’s doings makes the wives of the demons miscarry.

tav kul kamal bipni dukhadai, sita sita nisa sama aai.

sunahu nath sita binu dinhe, hita na tumhara sambhu aja kinhe .5.

Meaning: Just as a frosty night spells disaster to a bed of lotuses, so Sita has come here as a bane to your race. Listen, my lord: unless you return Sita, not even Shambhu (Lord Shiva) and Brahma (the creator) can be of any good to you.(1-5)

Doha: Rama bana ahi gana sarisa nikara nisachara bheka,

jaba lagi grasata na taba lagi jatanu karahu taji teka.36.

Meaning: Rama’s arrows are like a swarm of serpents, while the demon host can only compare with frogs. Therefore, giving up obstinacy, devise some means of safety before the serpents devour them.(36)

Chaupai: sravana suni satha ta kari bani, bihasa jagata bidita abhimani.

sabhaya subhau nari kara sacha, mangala mahu bhaya mana ati kacha.1.

Meaning: When the foolish ravana, who was known all the world over for his haughtiness, heard Mandodari’s admonition, he roared with laughter, A woman is timorous by nature, it is truly said. She entertains fear even on an auspicious occasion; for her mind is very weak.

jau avai markata katakai, jiahi bichare nisichara khai.

kanpahi lokapa jaki trasa, tasu nari sabhita bari hasa.2.

Meaning: If the monkey host comes, the poor demons would feast on them and sustain themselves. The very guardians of the spheres tremble for fear of me; how ridiculous that you, my wife, should be afraid!

asa kahi bihasi tahi ura lai, chaleu sabha mamata adhikai.

mandodari hridaya kara chinta, bhayau kanta para bidhi biparita.3.

Meaning: So saying he laughed and embraced her and then left for his council-chamber exhibiting great fondness for her. Mandodari, however, felt troubled at heart and thought that heaven had turned against her lord.

baitheu sabha khabari asi pai, sindhu para sena sab aai.

bujhesi sachiva uchita mata kahahu, te saba ha se mashta kari rahahu.4.

Meaning: As he occupied his royal seat in the council-chamber, he received intelligence that all the invading host had arrived on the other side of the ocean. He there upon asked his councillors; Give me proper advice. They however, laughed and submitted, Only remain quiet, my lord. Your Majesty experienced no difficulty when you conquered the gods and demons.

jitehu surasur taba shrama nahi, nara banara kehi lekhe mahi.5.

Meaning: Of what account, then, can men and monkeys be?(1-5)

Doha: sachiva baida gura tini jou priya bolahi bhaya asa,

raja dharma tana tini kara hoi begihi nasa.37.

Meaning: When a minister, a physician and a religious preceptor- these three use pleasing words from fear or hope of reward, the result is that dominion, health and faith-all the three forthwith go to the dogs.(37)

Chaupai: soi ravana kahu bani sahai, astuti karahi sunai sunai.

avasara jani bibishanu ava, bhrata charan sisu tehi nava.1.

Meaning: It was such a contingency that presented itself before ravana. They all extolled him only to his face. Perceiving it to be an opportune hour, Vibhishana (ravana’s youngest brother) arrived and bowed his head at his brother’s feet.

puni siru nai baitha nija asana, bola bachan pai anusasana.

jau kripala puchihu mohi bata, mati anurupa kahau hit tata.2.

Meaning: . Bowing his head once more he occupied his own seat and, when ordered to speak, addressed him thus:Since Your gracious Majesty has asked me my opinion I tender it, dear brother,according to my own lights and in your own interest.

jo apan chahai kalyana, sujasu sumati subha gati sukha nana.

so parnari lilara gosai, tajau chauthi ke chanda ki nai.3.

Meaning: Let him who seeks after his welfare, good reputation, wisdom, a good destiny after his death and joys of various kinds turn his eyes away from the brow of another’s wife even as one should refuse to see the moon on the fourth night (of the bright half) of a lunar month.

chaudah bhuvana ek pati hoi, bhutadroha tishtai nahi soi.

guna sagara nagara nara jou, alapa lobha bhala kahai na kou.4.

Meaning: Even though a man happened to be the sole lord of the fourteen spheres, he would certainly fall if he turned hostile to living beings. No one will speak well of a man who has the slightest avarice even if he were an ocean of virtues and clever too.(1-4)

Doha: kama krodha mada lobha saba natha naraka ke pantha,

saba parihari raghubirahi bhajahu bhajahi jehi santa.38.

Meaning: Lust, anger, vanity and covetousness are all paths leading to hell. Abjuring, all these adore the Hero of raghu’s line, whom saints worship.(38)

Chaupai: tata Rama nahi nara bhupala, bhuvanesvara kalahu kara kala.

brahma anamaya aja bhagavanta, byapaka ajita anadi ananta.1.

Meaning: Sri Rama, dear brother, is no mere human king; He is the Lord of the universe and the Death of Death himself. He is the Brahma (Absolute) who is free from the malady of Maya, the unborn God, all-pervading, invincible, without beginning or end.

go dvija dhenu deva hitakari, kripa sindhu manusha tanudhari.

jana ranjana bhanjana khala brata, beda dharma racchaka sunu bhrata.2.

Meaning: An ocean of compassion, He has assumed the form of a human being for the good of Earth, the Brahmana, the cow and the gods Listen, brother: He delights His devotees and breaks the ranks of the impious and is the champion of the Vedas and true religion.

tahi bayaru taji nai matha, pranatarati bhanjana raghunatha.

dehu natha prabhu kahu baidehi, bhajahu Rama binu hetu sanehi.3.

Meaning: . Giving up enmity with Him, bow your head to Him; for the Lord of the raghus relieves the distress of those who seek refuge in Him. My master, restore Videha’s Daughter to the Lord Sri Rama, and adore Him, the disinterested friend of all.

sarana gae prabhu tahu na tyaga, bisva droha krita agha jehi laga.

jasu nama traya tapa nasavana, soi prabhu pragata samujhu jiya ravana.4.

Meaning: On being approached, He forsakes not even him who has incurred sin by wishing ill to the whole world. Bear this in mind, ravana: the same Lord whose Name destroys the three fold agony has manifested Himself (in human form).(1-4)

Doha: bara bara pada lagau binaya karau dasasisa,

parihari mana moha mada bhajahu kosaladhisa.39(A).

Meaning: Again and again I fall at your feet and pray you, ravana: abandoning pride, infatuation and arrogance, adore the Lord of Kosala.

muni pulasti nija sishya sana kahi pathai yaha bata,

turata so mai prabhu sana kahi pai suavasaru taat.39(B).

Meaning: The sage Pulastya (our grandfather) had sent this message to us through a disciple of his. Availing myself of this golden opportunity, dear brother, I have immediately conveyed it to you.(39 A-B)

Chaupai: malyavanta ati sachiva sayana, tasu bachana suni ati sukha mana.

tata anuja tava niti bibhushana, so ura dharahu jo kahata bibhishana.1.

Meaning: Ravana had a very old and sagacious minister named Malyavan. He felt much gratified to hear Vibhishana’s words. Your younger brother, dear son, is the very ornament of wisdom. Therefore, take to heart what Vibhishana says.

ripu utakarasha kahata satha dou, duri na karahu iha hai kou.

malyavanta griha gayau bahori, kahai bibhishanu puni kara jori.2.

Meaning: Is there no one here who will remove them out of my sight ? Malyavan there upon returned to his residence, while Vibhishana began again with joined palms

sumati kumati saba ke ura rahahi, natha purana nigama asa kahahi.

jaha sumati taha sanpati nana, jaha kumati taha bipati nidana.3.

Meaning: Wisdom and unwisdom dwell in the heart of all: so declare the Puranas and Vedas, my lord. Where there is wisdom, prosperity of every kind reigns; and where there is unwisdom misfortune is the inevitable end.

tava ura kumati basi biparita, hita anahita manahu ripu prita.

kalarati nisichara kulakeri, tehi sita para priti ghaneri.4.

Meaning: Perversity has obviously taken possession of your heart; that is why you account your friends as foes and your enemies as friends.And that is why you are so very fond of Sita, who is the very night of destruction for the demon race.(1-4)

Doha: taat charana gahi magau rakhahu mora dulara,

sita dehu Ram kahun ahit na hoi tumhara.40.

Meaning: Clasping your feet I beseech you: grant this prayer of mine as a token of affection for me. restore Sita to Rama so that no harm may come to you.(40)

Chaupai: budha purana sruti sammata bani, kahi bibhishana niti bakhani.

sunata dasanana utha risai, khala tohi nikata mrityu aba ai.1.

Meaning: Vibhishana spoke wisdom and that too in words that had the approval of the wise, as well as of the Puranas and Vedas. ravana, however, rose in a fury as soon as he heard them. O wretch, your death is imminent now.

jiasi sada satha mora jiava, ripu kara paccha murha tohi bhava.

kahasi na khala asa ko jaga mahi, bhuja bala jahi jita mai nahi.2.

Meaning: O fool, you have always lived on my generosity; yet, O dullard, you have favored the enemy’s cause. Tell me, wretch, if there is any one in this world whom I have failed to conquer by the might of my arm. Dwelling in my capital you cherish love for the hermits

mama pura basi tapasinha para priti, satha milu jai tinhahi kahu niti.

asa kahi kinhesi charana prahara, anuja gahe pada barahi bara.3.

Meaning: If so, go and join hands with them, O fool, and teach wisdom to them. So saying, he kicked his younger brother, who in his turn clasped his brother’s feet again and again. Uma, here lies the greatness of a saint, who returns good for evil.

uma santa kai ihai barai, manda karata jo karai bhalai.

tumha pitu sarisa bhalehi mohi mara, ramu bhaje hita natha tumhara.4.

Meaning: It is well you have beaten me, since you are like a father to me. But your welfare, my lord, lies in adoring Sri Rama.

sachiva sanga lai nabha patha gayau, sabahi sunai kahata asa bhayau.5.

Meaning: Taking his ministers with him Vibhishana departed through the air exclaiming so as to make himself heard by all:-(1-5)

Doha: ramu satyasankalpa prabhu sabha kalabasa tori,

mai raghubira sarana aba jau dehu jani khori.41.

Meaning: Sri Rama is true to His resolve and all-powerful; while your counselors are all doomed. I, therefore, now betake myself to the Hero of raghu’s line for protection; blame me no more.(41)

Chaupai: asa kahi chala bibhishanu jabahi, ayuhina bhae saba tabahi.

sadhu avagya turata bhavani, kara kalyana akhila kai hani.1.

Meaning: No sooner had Vibhishana left with these words than the doom of them all was sealed. Disrespect to a saint, Parvati, immediately robs one of all blessings.

ravana jabahi bibhishana tyaga, bhayau bibhava binu tabahi abhaga.

caleu harashi raghunayaka pahi, karata manoratha bahu mana mahi.2.

Meaning: . The moment ravana abandoned Vibhishana the wretch lost all his glory. Indulging in many expectations Vibhishana, however, gladly proceeded to the Lord of the raghus.

dekhihau jai charana jalajata, aruna mridula sevaka sukhadata.

je pada parasi tari rishinari, dandaka kanana pavanakari.3.

Meaning: On reaching there I will behold those lotus-feet with ruddy soles, so soft and so delightful to the devotees.Nay, I will behold those feet whose very touch redeemed the rishi’s wife (Ahalya), that hallowed the Dandaka forest,

je pada janakasuta ura lae, kapata kuranga sanga dhara dhae.

hara ura sara saroja pada jei, ahobhagya mai dekhihau tei.4.

Meaning: that Janaka’s Daughter has locked up in Her bosom, that chased the delusive deer and that dwell as a pair of lotuses in the lake of Shiva’s heart.I am really blessed that I am going to see those very feet.(1-4)

Doha: jinha payanha ke padukanhi bharatu rahe mana lai,

te pada aju bilokihau inha nayananhi aba jai.42.

Meaning: I will go today and presently behold with these eyes of mine those very feet in whose wooden sandals Bharata’s mind remains absorbed !(42)

Chaupai: ehi bidhi karata saprema bichara, ayau sapadi sindhu ehi para.

kapinha bibhishanu avata dekha, janakou ripu duta bisesha.1.

Meaning: Cherishing such fond expectations Vibhishana instantly crossed over to the other side of the ocean (where Sri Rama had encamped with His host). When the monkeys saw Vibhishana coming, they took him for some special messenger of the enemy.

tahi rakhi kapisa pahir ae, samachara saba tahi sunae.

kaha sugriva sunahu raghurai, ava milana dasanana bhai.2.

Meaning: Detaining him outside they approached Sugriva (the lord of the monkeys) and told him all the news. Said Sugriva, Listen, O Lord of the raghus: ravana’s brother (Vibhishana) has come to see You.

kaha prabhu sakha bujhiai kaha, kahai kapisa sunahu naranaha.

jani na jai nisachara maya, kamarupa kehi karana aya.3.

Meaning: The Lord, however, asked, What do you think of the matter, my friend? The lord of the monkeys replied, Listen, O ruler of men: the wiles of these demons are beyond one’s comprehension. One does not know wherefore he has come, capable as he is of taking any form he likes.

bheda hamara lena satha ava, rakhia badhi mohi asa bhava.

sakha niti tumha niki bichari, mama pana saranagata bhayahari.4.

Meaning: Obviously the fool has come to spy out our secrets; what appeals to me, therefore, is that he should be taken prisoner and detained. Friend, you have thought out a wise course: but My vow is to dispel all fears from the mind of those who seek refuge in Me.

suni prabhu bachana harasha hanumana, saranagata bacchala bhagavana.5.

Meaning: Hanuman rejoiced to hear these words of the Lord, who cherished paternal affection for His protege.(1-5)

Doha: saranagata kahu je tajahi nija anahita anumani,

te nara pavara papamaya tinhahi bilokata hani.43.

Meaning: Those people who forsake a suppliant, apprehending evil from him are vile and sinful; their very sight is abominable.(43)

Chaupai: koti bipra badha lagahi jahu, ae sarana tajau nahi tahu.

sanamukha hoi jiva mohi jabahi, janma koti agha nasahi tabahi.1.

Meaning: I will not abandon even the murderer of myriads of Brahmanas, if he seeks refuge in Me. The moment a creature turns its face towards Me the sins incurred by it through millions of lives are washed away.

papavanta kara sahaja subhau, bhajanu mora tehi bhava na kau.

jou pai dushtahridaya soi hoi, more sanamukha ava ki soi.2.

Meaning: A sinner by his very nature is averse to My worship. Had Vibhishana been wicked at heart, could he ever dare to approach Me? That man alone who has a pure mind can attain to Me

nirmala mana jana so mohi pava, mohi kapata chala chidra na bhava.

bheda lena pathava dasasisa, tabahu na kachu bhaya hani kapisa.3.

Meaning: I have an aversion for duplicity, wiles and censoriousness. Even if ravana has sent him to find out our secrets, we have nothing to fear or lose, O lord of the monkeys.

jaga mahu sakha nisachara jete, lachimanu hanai nimisha mahu tete.

jau sabhita ava saranai, rakhihau tahi prana ki nai.4.

Meaning: Lakshmana, O my friend, can dispose of in a trice all the demons the world contains. And if he has sought shelter with Me out of fear, I will cherish him as My own life.(1-4)

Doha: ubhaya bhati tehi anahu hasi kaha kripaniketa,

jaya kripala kahi kapi chale angada hanu sameta.44.

Meaning: In either case bring him here, the All-merciful laughed and said. Glory to the merciful Lord, cried the monkeys and proceeded with Angada and Hanuman (to usher in Vibhishana).(44)

Chaupai: sadara tehi age kari banara, chale jaha raghupati karunakara.

durihi te dekhe dvau bhrata, nayanananda dana ke data.1

Meaning: The monkeys respectfully placed Vibhishana ahead of them and proceeded to the place where the all-merciful Lord of the raghus was. Vibhishana beheld from a distance the two brothers who ravished the eyes of all.

bahuri Rama chabidhama biloki, raheu thatuki ekataka pala roki.

bhuja pralamba kanjaruna lochana, syamala gata pranata bhaya mochana.2.

Meaning: Again as he beheld Sri Rama, the home of beauty, he stopped winking and stood stock still with his gaze intently fixed on the Lord. He had exceptionally long arms, eyes resembling the red lotus and swarthy limbs that rid the suppliant of all fear.

singha kandha ayata ura soha, anana amita madana mana moha.

nayana nira pulakita ati gata, mana dhari dhira kahi mridu bata.3.

Meaning: His lion-like shoulders and broad chest exercised great charm, while His countenance bewitched the mind of countless Cupids. The sight brought tears to his eyes and a deep thrill ran through his body. He, however, composed his mind and spoke in gentle accents: My lord, I am ravana’s brother.

natha dasanana kara mai bhrata, nisichara bansa janama suratrata.

sahaja papapriya tamasa deha, jatha ulukahi tama para neha.4.

Meaning: Having been born in the demon race. O Protector of gods, my body has the element of Tamas (inertia and ignorance) preponderating in it and I have a natural affinity for sins even as an owl is fond of darkness.(1-4)

Doha: sravana sujasu suni ayau prabhu bhanjana bhava bhira,

trahi trahi arati harana sarana sukhada raghubira.45.

Meaning: Having heard with my own ears of Your fair renown I have come to You with the belief that my lord (You) dissipates the fear of rebirth. Save me, save me, O Hero of raghu’s line, reliever of distress, delighter of those who take refuge in you.(45)

Chaupai: asa kahi karata dandavata dekha, turata uthe prabhu harasha bisesha.

dina bachana suni prabhu mana bhava, bhuja bisala gahi hridaya lagava.1.

Meaning: When the Lord saw Vibhishana falling prostrate with these words, He immediately started up much delighted. The Lord rejoiced at heart to hear his humble speech and, taking him in His long arms, clasped him to His bosom.

anuja sahita mili dhiga baithari, bole bachana bhagata bhayahari.

kahu lankesa sahita parivara, kusala kuthahara basa tumhara.2.

Meaning: Meeting him with His younger brother (Lakshmana) He seated him by His side and spoke words that dispelled the fear of His devotee: Tell me, king of Lanka, if all is well with you and your family, placed as you are in vicious surroundings

khala mandali basahu dinu rati, sakha dharama nibahai kehi bhati.

mai janau tumhari saba riti, ati naya nipuna na bhava aniti.3.

Meaning: You live day and night in the midst of evil-minded persons; I wonder how you are able to maintain your piety, my friend, I know all your ways: you are a past master in correct behaviour and are averse to wrong-doing.

baru bhala basa naraka kara tata, dushta sanga jani dei bidhata.

aba pada dekhi kusala raghuraya, jau tumha kinhi jani jana daya.4.

Meaning: It is much better to live in hell, dear Vibhishana; but may Providence never place us in the company of the wicked. All is well with me now that I have beheld Your feet, O Lord of the raghus, and since You have shown Your mercy to me, recognizing me as Your servant.(1-4)

Doha: taba lagi kusala na jiva kahu sapanehu mana bisrama,

jaba lagi bhajata na Rama kahu soka dhama taji kama.46.

Meaning: There can be no happiness for a creature nor can its mind know any peace even in a dream so long as it does not relinquish desire, which is an abode of sorrow, and adore Sri Rama (Yourself).(46)

Chaupai: taba lagi hridaya basata khala nana, lobha moha macchara mada mana.

jaba lagi ura na basata raghunatha, dhare chapa sayaka kati bhatha.1.

Meaning: That villainous crew-greed, infatuation, jealousy, arrogance and pride haunts the mind only so long as the Lord of the raghus does not take up His abode there, armed with a bow and arrow and with a quiver fastened at His waist.

mamata taruna tami adhiari, raga dvesha uluka sukhakari.

taba lagi basati jiva mana mahi, jaba lagi prabhu pratapa rabi nahi.2.

Meaning: Attachment to the world is like a dark night fully advanced, which is so delightful to the owls of attraction and aversion; it abides in the heart of a creature only so long as the sun of the Lord’s glory does not shine there.

aba mai kusala mite bhaya bhare, dekhi Rama pada kamala tumhare.

tumha kripala ja para anukula, tahi na byapa tribidha bhava sula.3.

Meaning: O Rama, I am now quite well and my grave fears have been set at rest. The threefold torments of mundane existence cease to have any effect on him who enjoys Your favour, my gracious lord.

mai nisichara ati adhama subhau, subha acharanu kinha nahi kau.

jasu rupa muni dhyana na ava, tehi prabhu harashi hridaya mohi lava.4.

Meaning: I am a demon vilest of nature and have never done any good act. Yet the Lord whose beauty even sages fail to perceive with their mind’s eye has been pleased to clasp me to His bosom.(1-4)

Doha: ahobhagya mama amita ati Rama kripa sukha punja,

dekheu nayana biranchi Shiva sebya jugala pada kanja.47.

Meaning: Ah, I am blessed beyond measure, O all-gracious and all-blissful Rama, in that I have beheld with my own eyes the lotus feet which are worthy of adoration even to Brahma and Shiva.(47)

Chaupai: sunahu sakha nija kahau subhau, jana bhusundi sanbhu girijau.

jau nara hoi charachara drohi, avai sabhaya sarana taki mohi.1.

Meaning: Listen, My friend: I tell you My nature, which is known to Bhusundi, sambhu (Lord Shiva) and Girija (Parvati) too. If a man, even though he has been an enemy of the whole animate and inanimate creation, comes terror-stricken to Me

taji mada moha kapata chhala nana, karau sadya tehi sadhu samana.

janani janaka bandhu suta dara, tanu dhanu bhavana suhrida parivara.2.

Meaning: seeking My protection and discarding vanity, infatuation, hypocrisy and trickeries of various kinds, I speedily make him the very like of a saint. The ties of affection that bind a man to his mother, father, brother, son, wife, body, wealth, house, friends and relations are like so many threads which a pious soul gathers up and twists into a string where with he binds his soul to My feet.

saba kai mamata taga batori, mama pada manahi ba dha bari dori.

samadarasi iccha kachu nahi, harasha soka bhaya nahi mana mahi.3.

Meaning: Nay, he looks upon all with the same eye and has no craving and his mind is free from joy, grief and fear.

asa sajjana mama ura basa kaise, lobhi hridaya basai dhanu jaise.

tumha sarikhe santa priya more, dharau deha nahi ana nihore .4.

Meaning: A saint of this description abides in My heart even as mammon resides in the heart of a covetous man. Only saints of your type are dear to Me; for the sake of none else do I body Myself forth.(1-4)

Doha: saguna upasaka parahita nirata niti dridha nem,

te nara prana samana mama jinha ke dvija pada prema.48.

Meaning: Those men who worship My personal form, are intent on doing good to others, firmly tread the path of righteousness, and are steadfast in their vow and devoted to the feet of the Brahmanas are dear to Me as life.(48)

Chaupai: sunu lankesa sakala guna tore, tate tumha atisaya priya more,

Rama bachana suni banara jutha, sakala kahahi jaya kripa barutha.1.

Meaning: Listen, O king of Lanka; you possess all the above virtues; hence you are extremely dear to Me. On hearing the words of Sri Rama all the assembled monkeys exclaimed, Glory to the All-merciful !

sunata bibhishanu prabhu kai bani, nahi aghata sravanamrita jani.

pada anbuja gahi barahi bara, hridaya samata na premu apara.2.

Meaning: Vibhishana’s eagerness to hear the Lord’s speech, which was all nectar to his ears, knew no satiety. He clasped His lotus feet again and again, his heart bursting with boundless joy.

sunahu deva sacaracara svami, pranatapala ura antarajami.

ura kachu prathama basana rahi, prabhu pada priti sarita so bahi.3.

Meaning: Listen, my lord, ruler of the whole creation-animate as well as inanimate, Protector of the suppliant and Knower of all hearts: I did have some lurking desire in my heart before; but the same has been washed away by the stream of devotion to the Lord’s feet.

aba kripala nija bhagati pavani, dehu sada Shiva mana bhavani.

evamastu kahi prabhu ranadhira, maga turata sindhu kara nira.4.

Meaning: Now, my gracious Lord, grant me such pure devotion (to Your feet) as that which gladdens Shiva’s heart. So be it, replied the Lord, staunch in fight, and immediately asked for the water of the sea.

jadapi sakha tava iccha nahi,mora darasu amogha jaga mahi.

asa kahi Rama tilaka tehi sara, sumana brishti nabha bhai apara.5.

Meaning: Even though, My friend, you have no craving, My sight in this world never fails to bring its reward. So saying, Sri Rama applied on his forehead the sacred mark of sovereignty and a copious shower of flowers rained down from the heavens.(1-5)

Doha: ravana krodha anala nija svasa samira prachanda,

jarata bibhishanu rakheu dinheu raju akhanda.49(A).

Meaning: Thus did the Lord of the raghus save Vibhishana from being consumed by the fire of ravana’s wrath, fanned to fury by his own (Vibhishana’s) breath (words), and bestowed on him unbroken sovereignty.

jo sampati Shiva ravanahi dinhi diye dasa matha,

soi sampada bibhishanahi sakuchi dinhi raghunatha.49(B).

Meaning: Nay, he conferred on Vibhishana with much diffidence, the same fortune which Lord Shiva had bestowed on ravana after the latter had offered his ten heads to Him in a sacrifice.(49 A-B)

Chaupai: asa prabhu chadi bhajahi je ana, te nara pasu binu puchha bishana.

nija jana jani tahi apanava, prabhu subhava kapi kula mana bhava.1.

Meaning: Those men who worship anyone else, giving up such a (benign) lord, are mere beasts without a tail and a pair of horns recognizing Vibhishana as His own man the Lord accepted him in His service; the amiability of His disposition gladdened the heart of the whole monkey host.

puni sarbagya sarba ura basi, sarbarupa saba rahita udasi.

bole bachana niti pratipalaka, karana manuja danuja kula ghalaka.2.

Meaning: . Then the All-wise, who dwells in the heart of all, is manifest in all forms, though bereft of all and unconcerned, and who had appeared in human semblance with a specific motive and as the exterminator of the demon race, spoke words strictly observing the rules of decorum:

sunu kapisa lankapati bira, kehi bidhi taria jaladhi gambhira.

sankula makara uraga jhasha jati, ati agadha dustara saba bhati.3.

Meaning: Listen, O lord of the monkeys and O valiant sovereign of Lanka, how are we to cross the deep ocean full of alligators, snakes and all varieties of fishes, most unfathomable and difficult to cross in everyway?

kaha lankesa sunahu raghunayaka, koti sindhu soshaka tava sayaka.

jadyapi tadapi niti asi gai, binaya kari sagara sana jai.4.

Meaning: Listen, O Lord of the raghus, replied the king of Lanka, Although Your arrow ifself can dry up innumerable oceans, yet propriety demands that You should approach the ocean and request the deity presiding over it (to allow You a passage).(1-4)

Doha: prabhu tumhara kulagura jaladhi kahihi upaya bichari,

binu prayasa sagara tarihi sakala bhalu kapi dhari.50.

Meaning: My lord, the deity presiding over the ocean is an ancestor of Yours; hence he will think over the question and suggest some means (of crossing the ocean). The whole host of bears and monkeys will thus be able to cross the ocean without much ado.(50)

Chaupai: sakha kahi tumha niki upai, karia daiva jau hoi sahai.

mantra na yaha lachimana mana bhava, Rama bachana suni ati dukha pava.1.

Meaning: Friend, you have suggested an excellent plan; let us try it and see if Providence helps it. This counsel, however, did not find favour with Lakshmana, who was greatly pained to hear Sri Rama’s words

natha daiva kara kavana bharosa, soshia sindhu karia mana rosa.

kadara mana kahu eka adhara, daiva daiva alasi pukara.2.

Meaning: No reliance can be placed on the freaks of fortune. Fill your mind with indignation and dry up the ocean. Fate is a crutch for the mind of cowards alone; it is the indolent who proclaim their faith in fate.

sunata bihasi bole raghubira, aisehi karaba dharahu mana dhira.

asa kahi prabhu anujahi samujhai, sindhu samipa gae raghurai.3.

Meaning: Hearing this the Hero of raghu’s line laughed and said, We shall do accordingly; pray, ease your mind. reassuring His younger brother (Lakshmana) with these words the Lord of the raghus went to the seashore.

prathama pranama kinha siru nai, baithe puni tata darbha dasai.

jabahi bibhishana prabhu pahi ae, pache ravana duta pathae.4

Meaning: First of all He bowed His head and greeted the ocean and then, spreading some Kusa grass on the shore, took His seat thereon. As soon as Vibhishana proceeded towards the Lord, ravana sent spies after him.(1-4)

Doha: sakala charita tinha dekhe dhare kapata kapi deha,

prabhu guna hridaya sarahahi saranagata para neha.51.

Meaning: Assuming the false appearance of monkeys they witnessed all the doings of Sri Rama and praised in their heart the Lord’s virtues and His fondness for those who come to Him for protection.(51)

Chaupai: pragata bakhanahi Rama subhau, ati saprema ga bisari durau.

ripu ke duta kapinha taba jane, sakala bandhi kapisa pahi ane.1.

Meaning: They openly commenced applauding Sri Rama’s amiability and in the intensity of their emotion forgot their disguise. The monkeys now recognized them as the enemy’s spies; they bound them all and brought them in the presence of Sugriva (the lord of the monkeys).

kaha sugriva sunahu saba banara, anga bhanga kari pathavahu nisichara.

suni sugriva bachana kapi dhae, bandhi kataka chahu pasa phirae.2.

Meaning: Said Sugriva, Listen, all you monkeys: mutilate the demons and dismiss them. Hearing Sugriva’s command the monkeys ran and paraded them in bonds all through the camp

bahu prakara marana kapi lage, dina pukarata tadapi na tyage.

jo hamara hara nasa kana, tehi kosaladhisa kai ana.3.

Meaning: The monkeys, then started belabouring them right and left; the demons piteously cried for help, yet the monkeys would not let them alone. Whosoever robs us of our nose and ears, we adjure him by Sri Rama not to do so.

suni lachimana saba nikata bolae, daya lagi hasi turata chorae.

ravana kara dijahu yaha pati,lachimana bachana bachu kulaghati.4.

Meaning: When Lakshmana heard this, he called them all near him; and moved to pity he laughed and immediately had them released. Give this note into ravana’s hands and tell him: read, destroyer of your race, what Lakshmana says.(1-4)

Doha: kahehu mukhagara murha sana mama sandesu udara,

sita dei milahu na ta ava kalu tumhara.52.

Meaning: Further convey to the fool by word of mouth my generous message: surrender Sita and make peace or your hour is come.(52)

Chaupai: turata nai lachimana pada matha, chale duta baranata guna gatha.

kahata Rama jasu lanka ae, ravana charana sisa tinha nae.1.

Meaning: Bowing their head at Lakshmana’s feet the spies immediately departed, recounting the virtues of Sri Rama. With Sri Rama’s praises on their lips they entered Lanka and bowed their head at ravana’s feet.

bihasi dasanana puchi bata, kahasi na suka apani kusalata.

puni kahu khabari bibhishana keri, jahi mrityu ai ati neri.2.

Meaning: The ten-headed monster laughed and asked them the news: report me, suka, your own welfare and then tell me the news about Vibhishana whom death has approached very near.

karata raja lanka satha tyagi, hoihi java kara kita abhagi.

puni kahu bhalu kisa katakai, kathina kala prerita chali aai.3.

Meaning: The fool left Lanka where he was ruling; the wretch will now be crushed as a we evil with barley-grains. Tell me next all about the host of bears and monkeys, that has been driven over here by a cruel destiny.

jinha ke jivana kara rakhavara, bhayau mridula chita sindhu bichara.

kahu tapasinha kai bata bahori, jinha ke hridaya trasa ati mori.4.

Meaning: It is the poor soft-hearted sea that has stood as a protector of their lives. Lastly tell me the news about the ascetics (Rama and Lakshmana) whose heart is obsessed with unceasing terror of me.(1-4)

Doha: ki bhai bhenta ki phiri gae sravana sujasu suni mora,

kahasi na ripu dala teja bala bahuta chakita chita tora.53.

Meaning: Did you meet them or did they beat their retreat on hearing my fair renown? Why should you not speak of the enemy’s prowess and strength; your wits seem utterly dazed.(53)

Chaupai: natha kripa kari puchhehu jaise, manahu kaha krodha taji taise.

milajai jaba anuja tumhara, jatahi Rama tilaka tehi sara.1.

Meaning: My lord, just as you have so kindly put these questions to me, so do you believe what I say and be not angry. No sooner had your younger brother (Vibhishana) met Sri Rama then the latter applied the sacred mark of sovereignty on his forehead.

ravana duta hamahi suni kana,kapinha ba dhi dinhe dukha nana.

sravana nasika katai lage, Rama sapatha dinhe hama tyage.2.

Meaning: When the monkeys heard that we were ravana’s (Your majesty’s) spies, they bound us and persecuted us in many ways. They were about to cut off our ears and nose; but when we adjured them by Rama not to do so, they let us go

puchhihu natha Rama katakai, badana koti sata barani na jai.

nana barana bhalu kapi dhari, bikatanana bisala bhayakari.3.

Meaning: You have enquired, my lord, about Sri Rama’s army; but a thousand million tongues would fail to describe it. It is a host of bears and monkeys of diverse hue and gruesome visage, huge and terrible

jehi pura daheu hateu suta tora, sakala kapinha maha tehi balu thora.

amita nama bhata kathina karala, amita naga bala bipula bisala.4.

Meaning: He who burnt your capital and killed your son (Akshay) is the weakest of all the monkeys. The army includes innumerable champions with as many names, fierce and unyielding monsters of vast bulk and possessing the strength of numberless elephants.(1-4)

Doha: dvibida mayanda nila nala angada gada bikatasi,

dadhimukha kehari nisatha satha jamavanta balarasi.54.

Meaning: Dvivida, Mainda, Nila, Nala, Angada, Gada, Vikatasya, Dadhimukha, Kesari, Nisatha, satha and the powerful Jamvanta are some of them.(54)

Chaupai: e kapi saba sugriva samana, inha sama kotinha ganai ko nana.

Rama kripa atulita bala tinhahi, trina samana trailokahi ganahi.1.

Meaning: Each of these monkeys is as mighty as Sugriva (the king) and there are tens of millions like them; who can dare count them? By the grace of Sri Rama they are unequalled in strength and reckon the three spheres of creation as of no more account than a blade of grass

asa mai suna sravana dasakandhara, paduma atharaha juthapa bandara.

natha kataka maha so kapi nahi, jo na tumhahi jitai rana mahi.2.

Meaning: I have heard it said, ravana, that the commanders of the various monkey-troops alone number eighteen thousand billions. In the whole host, my lord, there is not a single monkey who would not conquer you in battle.

arama krodha mijahi saba hatha, ayasu pai na dehi raghunatha.

soshahi sindhu sahita jhasha byala, purahi na ta bhari kudhara bisala.3.

Meaning: They are all wringing their hands in excess of passion; but the Lord of the raghus does not order them (to march). We shall suck the ocean dry with all its fish and serpents or fill it up with huge mountains.

mardi garda milavahi dasasisa, aisei bachana kahahi saba kisa.

garjahi tarjahi sahaja asanka, manahu grasana chahata hahi lanka.4.

Meaning: Nay, we shall crush the ten-headed ravana and reduce him to dust. Such were the words that all the monkeys uttered. Fearless by nature, they roared and bullied as if they would devour Lanka.(1-4)

Doha: sahaja sura kapi bhalu saba puni sira para prabhu Rama,

ravana kala koti kahu jiti sakahi sangrama.55.

Meaning: All the monkeys and bears are born warriors and, besides, they have Lord Sri Rama over their head. ravana, they can conquer in battle even millions of Yamas (death personified).(55)

Chaupai: rama teja bal budhi bipulai, sesha sahasa sata sakahi na gai.

sara eka soshi sata sagara, tava bhratahi pucheu naya nagara.1.

Meaning: A hundred thousand seshas would fail to describe the greatness of Sri Rama’s valour, strength and intelligence. With a single shaft He could dry up a hundred seas; yet, being a master of propriety, He consulted your brother

tasu bachana suni sagara pahi, mangata pantha kripa mana mahi.

sunata bachana bihasa dasasisa, jau asi mati sahaya krita kisa.2.

Meaning: and in accordance with his suggestion He is asking passage of the ocean with a heart full of compassion. The ten-headed monster laughed to hear these words. It was because of such wits that he (Rama) took monkeys for his allies.

sahaja bhiru kara bachana drirhai, sagar san thani machlai.

murha mrisha ka karasi barai, ripu bala buddhi thaha mai pai.3.

Meaning: That is why, confirming the advice of my brother, who is a born coward, he is persistent in demanding of the ocean (like a pet child) something which is impossible.

sachiva sabhita bibhishana jake, bijaya bibhuti kaha jaga take.

suni khala bacana duta risa barhi, samaya bichari patrika kadhi4.4

Meaning: Fool, why do you bestow false praise on the enemy, whose might and wisdom I have fathomed. Triumph and glory in this world are inaccessible to him who has a cowardly counsellor like Vibhishana. The spy waxed angry to hear the words of the wicked monarch and taking it to be an opportune moment he took out the letter (from Lakshmana).

ramanuja dinhi yeh paati, nath bachai judavahu chhati.

bihasi baam kar linhi ravana, sachiva boli satha laga bachavana.5.

Meaning: Sri Rama’s younger brother (Lakshmana) gave me this note; have it read, my lord, and soothe your heart. ravana laughed when he took the letter in his left hand; and summoning his minister, the fool asked him to read it out.(1-5)

Doha: batanha manahi rijhai satha jani ghalasi kula khisa,

Rama birodha na ubarasi sarana bishnu aja isa.56(A).

Meaning: Beguiling your mind with flattering words, O fool, do not bring your race to utter ruin. By courting enmity with Sri Rama you will not be spared even though you seek the protection of Vishnu, Brahma or Shiva.

ki taji mana anuja iva prabhu pada pankaja bhringa,

hohi ki Rama saranala khala kula sahita patanga.56(B).

Meaning: Therefore, abandoning pride, like your younger brother, either seek the lotus feet of the Lord as a bee or be consumed with your family like a moth into the fire of Sri Rama’s shafts, O wretch.(56 A-B)

Chaupai: sunata sabhaya mana mukha musukai, kahata dasanana sabahi sunai.

bhumi para kara gahata akasa, laghu tapasa kara baga bilasa.1.

Meaning: Ravana was dismayed at heart as he listened to the above message but wore a feigned smile on his face and spoke aloud for all to hear: The younger hermit’s grand eloquence is just like attempt of a man lying on the ground to clutch with hands the vault of heaven.

kaha suka natha satya saba bani, samujhahu chari prakriti abhimani.

sunahu bahcana mama parihari krodha, natha Rama sana tajahu birodha.2.

Meaning: Said suka, My lord, giving up haughtiness take every word of it as true. Abandon passion and give ear to my advice: my lord, avoid a clash with Sri Rama.

ati komala raghubira subhau, jadyapi akhila loka kara rau.

milata kripa tumha para prabhu karihi, ura aparadha na ekau dharihi.3.

Meaning: The Hero of raghu’s line is exceedingly mild of disposition, even though He is the lord of the entire universe. The Lord will shower His grace on you the moment you meet Him, and will not take to heart even a single offence of yours.

janakasuta raghunathahi dije, etana kaha mora prabhu kije.

jaba tehi kaha dena baidehi, charana prahara kinha satha tehi.4.

Meaning: Pray, restore Janaka’s Daughter to Sri Rama; at least concede this request of mine. When suka asked him to surrender Videha’s Daughter, the wretch kicked him.

nai charana siru chala so taha, kripa sindhu raghunayaka jaha.

kari pranamu nija katha sunai, Rama kripa apani gati pai.5.

Meaning: Suka, however, bowed his head at ravana’s feet and proceeded to the place where the all-merciful Lord of the raghus was. Making obeisance to the Lord he told Him all about himself and by Rama’s grace recovered his original state.

ishiagasti ki sapabhavani, rachasa bhayau raha muni gyani.

bandi Rama pada barahi bara, muni nija ashrama kahu pagu dhara.6.

Meaning: He was an enlightened sage; it was by Agastya’s curse, Parvati, that he had been transformed into a demon. Adoring Sri Rama’s feet again and again the sage returned to his hermitage.(1-6)

Doha: binaya na manata jaladhi jara giri tini dina biti,

bole Rama sakopa taba bhaya binu hoi na priti.57.

Meaning: Although three days had elapsed, the crass ocean would not answer the Lord’s prayer. Sri Rama there upon indignantly said, There can be no friendship without inspiring fear.(57)

Chaupai: lachimana bana sarasana anu, soshau baridhi bisikha krisanu.

satha sana binaya kutila sana priti, sahaja kripana sana sundara niti.1.

Meaning: Lakshmana, bring Me My bow and arrows; I will dry up the ocean with a missile presided over by the god of fire.

mamata rata sana gyana kahani, ati lobhi sana birati bakhani.

krodhihi sama kamihi hari katha, usara bija bae phala jatha.2

Meaning: Supplication before an idiot, friendship with a rogue, inculcating liberality on a born miser, talking wisdom to one steeped in worldliness, glorifying dispassion before a man of excessive greed, a lecture on mind control to an irascible man and a discourse on the exploits of Sri Hari to a libidinous person are as futile as sowing seeds in a barren land.

asa kahi raghupati chapa charhava, yaha mata lachimana ke mana bhava.

sandhaneu prabhu bisikha karala, uthi udadhi ura antara jvala.3.

Meaning: So saying, the Lord of the raghus strung His bow and this stand (of the Lord) delighted Lakshmana’s heart. When the Lord fitted the terrible arrow to His bow, a blazing fire broke out in the heart of the ocean; the alligators, serpents and fishes felt distressed

makara uraga jhasha gana akulane, jarata jantu jalanidhi jaba jane.

kanaka thara bhari mani gana nana, bipra rupa ayau taji mana.4.

Meaning: When the god presiding over the ocean found the creatures burning, he gave up his pride and, assuming the form of a Brahmana, came with a gold plate filled with all kinds of jewels.(1-4)

Doha: katehi pai kadari pharai koti jatana kou sicha,

binaya na mana khagesa sunu datehi pai nava nicha.58.

Meaning: Though one may take infinite pains in watering a plantain it will not bear fruit unless it is hewed. Similarly, mark me, O king of birds, (continues Kakabhusundi,) a vile fellow heeds no prayer but yields only when reprimanded.(58)

Chaupai: sabhaya sindhu gahi pada prabhu kere, chamahu natha saba avaguna mere.

gagana samira anala jala dharani, inha kai natha sahaja jara karani.1.

Meaning: The god presiding over the ocean clasped the Lord’s feet in dismay. Forgive, my lord, all my faults. Ether, air, fire, water and earth- all these, my lord, are dull by nature.

tava prerita maya upajae, Srishti hetu saba granthani gae.

prabhu ayasu jehi kaha jasa ahai, so tehi bhanti rahe sukha lahai.2.

Meaning: It is Maya (Cosmic Nature) which brought them forth for the purpose of creation under an impulse from You; so declare all the scriptures.

prabhu bhala kinha mohi sikha dinhi, marajada puni tumhari kinhi.

dhola gavara sudra pasu nari, sakala tarana ke adhikari.3.

Meaning: My Lord has done well in giving me a lesson; but You have fixed certain limits for everyone. A drum, a rustic, a sudra, a beast and a woman-all these deserve instructions.

prabhu pratapa mai jaba sukhai, utarihi kataku na mori barai.

prabhu agya apael sruti gai, karau so begi jo tumhahi sohai.4.

Meaning: By the Lord’s glory I shall be dried up and the army will cross over; but this will bring no credit to me. Your command, however is inviolable; thus declare the Vedas, I shall do at once what pleases You.(1-4)

Doha: sunata binita bachana ati kaha kripala musukai,

jehi bidhi utarai kapi kataku tata so kahahu upai.59.

Meaning: On hearing his most submissive words the all-merciful smiled and said, Tell me, dear father, some device whereby the monkey host may cross over.(59)

Chaupai: natha nila nala kapi dvau bhai, larikai rishi asisa pai.

tinha ke parasa kie giri bhare, tarihahi jaladhi pratapa tumhare.1

Meaning: My lord, the two monkey brothers, Nila, and Nala, got a boon in their childhood from a sage. Touched by them even huge mountains will float on the ocean by Your glory. Cherishing my lord’s (Your) greatness I too shall help You to the best of my ability.

mai puni ura dhari prabhu prabhutai, karihau bala aanumana sahai.

ehi bidhi natha payodhi bandhia, jehi ye sujasu loka tihu gai.2.

Meaning: In this way, my lord, have the ocean bridged, so that this glorious achievement of Yours may be sung in all three spheres of creation. With this arrow, my Lord, exterminate a race of vile criminals inhabiting my northern coast.

ehi sara mama uttara tata basi, hatahu natha khala nara agha rasi..

suni kripala sagar mana pira, turatahi hari Rama ranadhira.3.

Meaning: With this arrow, my Lord, exterminate a race of vile criminals inhabiting my northern coast. On hearing this, Sri Rama, who was as tender-hearted as he was staunch in battle, immediately relieved the agony of Ocean’s heart

dekhi Rama bala paurusha bhari, harashi payonidhi bhayau sukhari.

sakala charita kahi prabhuhi sunava, charana bandi pathodhi sidhava.4.

Meaning: The god presiding over the ocean was rejoiced and gratified to witness Sri Rama’s astounding might and valour. He related to the Lord all the doings (of those villains); and bowing to His feet, Ocean took his leave.

Chan: nija bhavana gavaneu sindhu Sriraghupatihi yaha mata bhayau,

yaha charita kali malahara jathamati dasa tulasi gayau.

sukha bhavana sansaya samana davana bishada raghupati guna gana,

taji sakala asa bharosa gavahi sunahi santata satha mana.

Meaning: The god presiding over the ocean left for his home; the idea (of bridging the ocean) commended itself to the blessed Lord of the raghus. This story (of Sri Rama’s exploits in this Kanda), which wipes out the impurities of the Kali age, has been sung by Tulsidas according to his own (poor) lights. The excellences of Sri Rama (the Lord of the raghus) are an abode of delight, a panacea for all doubt and an unfailing remedy for sorrow. Therefore, giving up all other hope and faith, ever sing and hear them, O foolish mind.

Doha: sakala sumangala dayaka raghunayaka guna gaan,

sadara sunahi te tarahi bhava sindhu bina jalajana.60.

Meaning: A recital of the virtues of Rama (the Lord of the raghus) bestows all blessings. Those who reverently hear them cross the ocean of mundane existence without any bark.(60)


Translation and Courtesy from : Krishnakutumb