Rama Katha Rasa Vahini - Post 8

Chapter - 2

In the Immaculate pure Solar Dynasty was born the highly

mighty, the far famed, the strong armed, the Intensely loved and revered ruler, Khatvanga. His rule showered supreme bliss on the immense populations under his throne and persuaded them to pay homage to him, as if he were himself God. He had a 'one-and-only' son, named  Dileepa.

He grew up, shining in the glory of knowledge and virtue; he shared with his father the joy and privilege of guarding and guiding the people. He moved among his subjects, eager to know their joys and sorrows, anxious to discover how best to relieve pain and distress, intent on their welfare and prosperity.

The father watched his son grow straight and strong, virtuous and wise. He sought a bride for him so that after the marriage, he could place on his shoulders part of the burden of the spectre  He sought her in royal houses far and wide, for she must be a worthy companion for the prince. At last, the choice fell on the Magadhan princess, Sudakshina. The wedding was celebrated with unsurpassed pomp and exultation by the people and the court.

Sudakshina was endowed with all womanly virtues in ample measure. She was saintly and simple and a sincere votary of her husband; she served her lord and poured love on him, as if he were her very breath. She walked in the footsteps of her husband and never deviated from the path of righteousness.

Dileepa, too, was the very embodiment of righteousness, and, as a consequence, he saw that neither want nor disappointment affected him in the least. He held fast to the ideals and practices of his father so far as the administration of the empire was concerned and so he could slowly and without any dislocation, take upon himself the full responsibility of administration. 

Thus, he was able to give his father rest in his old age. Khatvanga rejoiced within himself, contemplating the great qualities of his son and observing his skill, efficiency and practical wisdom.

Some years passed thus. Then, Khatvanga directed the court astrologers to select an auspicious day and hour for the Coronation of Dileepa and on the day fixed by them he installed Dileepa as the Monarch of the realm.

From that day Dileepa shone forth as the Lord and Sovereign of the Empire, which stretched from sea to sea, with the seven islands of the Ocean. His rule was so just and compassionate, so much in conformity with the injunctions laid down in the scriptures that rains came as plentifully as needed and the harvest was rich and profuse.

The entire empire was green and glorious, festive and full. The land was resonant with the sacred sound of the Vedas recited in every village, the purifying rhythm of the manthras chanted in the Vedic sacrifices performed throughout the land; every community lived in concord with all the rest.

Continued.....

Love.