Yuddha Kandam

81. Indrajit Kills Illusory Sita

[Indrajit brings a Sita made by illusion through the western gate. When Hanuman and other monkeys were witnessing, he kills Sita of illusion. The monkeys become agitated.]

Guessing the mind of the great Rama, then Indrajit turned away from the battle field and entered in to his city. 81.1

Then that valorous son of Ravana recollected the killing of many energetic Rakshasas went again to fight with eyes reddened by anger. 81.2

The very valorous Indrajit who was the enemy of devas and who belonged to the Paulasthya clan and who was surrounded by many Rakshasas came out through the western gate. 81.3

Then that Indrajit who saw the brothers Rama and Lakshmana who were prepared to fight the war, on his part showed his magical tricks. 81.4

Placing a Sita created by illusion on his chariot, with a large army surrounding that chariot, intended to kill her. 81.5

That greatly evil minded one made up his mind to confuse everyone by playing a trick of killing that Sita of illusion and went towards the monkeys. 81.6

Seeing him coming towards them, all those monkeys were greatly agitated and with rocks in their hands, they bounced towards him to fight with him. 81.7

The elephant like monkey Hanuman took a very large peak of the mountain which was difficult to carry went in front of them. 81.8

Then that Hanuman saw Sita, the wife of Rama, the best among women, bereft of joy, wearing only a single braid of hair, looking miserable, with her face emaciated due to fasting, dressed in a single worn-out clothing, unadorned and with all her limbs covered with dust and dirt; in the chariot of Indrajit. 81.9-81.10

As soon as he saw her, he identified her as Mythili, since he had seen that daughter of Janaka not long ago. 81.11

Seeing her as pained with sorrow, being without joy, looking like a saint, miserable and sitting beside Indrajit Hanuman wondered about his intentions and along with other monkey leaders rushed towards him. 81.12-81.13

Seeing the army of monkeys that son of Ravana benumbed by great anger, drew out his sword from his sheath and pulled out Sita by her hair. 81.14

When they all were seeing that lady, that son of Ravana started beating her and she who was created by illusion, started shouting "Rama, Rama." 81.15

Seeing her being caught by her hair Hanuman the son of wind God became greatly miserable and started shedding tears from his eyes. 81.16

Seeing her who had pretty limbs who was the darling wife of Rama, Hanuman with anger told these harsh words to the son of the king of Rakshasas. 81.17

"Oh evil soul, though you were born in a clan of Brahmin sages you belong to the Rakshasa clan and you have touched her hair for inviting your ruin." 81.18

"Oh cruel person, Oh person who is not cultured, Oh mean fellow, Oh wicked one, oh person having sinful valour, oh pitiless one, woe unto you for the sinful conduct that you did. Such an act is not worthy of even a barbarian and so there is no pity for you." 81.19

"Oh merciless one, Sita came away from her house from her kingdom for being protected by Rama. What wrong has she done to you? Why are you killing her?" 81.20

"It is definite that after killing Sita, you would not survive for a long time. You who deserve to be killed, by your act, have fallen in my hands." 81.21

"Soon you would leave this life and after death, you would descent to the land of lady killers which is despised even by those who deserved to be killed by people." 81.22

After telling this Hanuman who was surrounded by monkeys holding their weapons, with great anger towards the Rakshasas, rushed towards Indrajit. 81.23

But the army of Rakshasas in great anger intercepted that monkey army of great prowess which was advancing towards them. 81.24

Stirring up that army of monkeys with thousands of arrows, Indrajit replied to Hanuman, the foremost of monkeys as follows. 81.25

"I am going to kill Sita for whose sake, Sugreeva. You and Rama have come here while you are standing and looking on, now itself." 81.26

"Oh monkey, after killing her, I would be killing you, Rama, Lakshmana, Sugreeva and the ungentlemanly Vibheeshana." 81.27

"Oh monkey you just said that women are not to be killed but that which causes pain and sorrow to unfriendly people should be done." 81.28

After saying this Indrajit himself killed the Sita of illusion who was all the while sobbing with his sharp edged sword. 81.29

That saintly and miserable one with broad hips and who was pretty to see was cut across diagonally from left to right and fell down on earth. 81.30

After killing that lady, Indrajit told Hanuman "See I have killed the darling of Rama with my weapon and with this the princess of Videha is no more and all your efforts are in vain." 81.31-81.32

After killing her with his great sword That Indrajit climbed in to his chariot and with joy roared loudly. 81.33

All the monkeys who were standing in front of him, head his roar, when he shouted with wide open mouth, sitting comfortably in the tower of his aerial chariot m, which was unreachable for others. 81.34

After killing Sita in that way, the evil-minded Indrajit became exceedingly glad. Seeing him exceedingly pleased, the monkeys looked dejected and suddenly ran away. 81.35

This is the end of Eighty First Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

82. Hanuman Wages Great War

[Hanuman wages a great war and when Indrajit starts to fight again. Hanuman decides to inform Rama about Sita's death. Indrajit goes to Nikumbila to perform a Yagna.]

Hearing that huge roar which was like the thunder bolt of Indra, the monkeys after looking in all directions, ran away here and there. 82.1

Then Hanuman, the son of wind God spoke to all those monkeys who were running away dejected, miserable, scared and widely apart. 82.2

"Oh monkeys, why are you running away with disappointed faces and leaving away your enthusiasm to fight? Where has your valour gone?" 82.3

"While I am marching ahead of you, march behind me, because it is not proper for the valorous ones of a good family to run away." 82.4

When the wise Hanuman spoke this way, the monkeys became in a cheerful mood and collected mountain peaks and trees in great anger. 82.5

The best of the monkeys roared and rushed towards the Rakshasas and they followed Hanuman by surrounding him from all sides. 82.6

Hanuman being surrounded by the chiefs of monkey army killed the army of enemies like a fire with flame. 82.7

The great monkey accompanied by the monkey army destroyed the Rakshasas like Yama, the god of death at final deluge. 82.8

The great monkey Hanuman gripped by great sorrow was very greatly enraged and threw a rock on the chariot of Indrajit. 82.9

Seeing the rock rushing towards them the charioteers with the help of obedient horses drove the chariot to a far off place. 82.10

Not able to reach the chariot along with the charioteer of Indrajit, that rock fell on the ground and split in to pieces and pierced the earth. 82.11

By the fragments of the fallen rock the army of Rakshasas were greatly wounded and they were greatly perturbed over possibility of rocks falling on them. 82.12

Monkeys in hundreds with huge bodies lifted up trees and mountain peaks and rushed towards Indrajit. 82.13

Those very valorous monkeys threw trees and mountain peaks towards Indrajit in that battle and by shooting large number of trees and peaks, the monkeys caused destruction of their enemies and the monkeys roared greatly. 82.14

Struck with trees with great valour by those terrible looking monkeys, the Rakshasas of hideous appearance rolled about restlessly in the battlefield. 82.15

Seeing that his own army is being tormented by those monkeys, the very angry Indrajit took hold of his weapons and started going towards his enemies. 82.16

That Indrajit, of firm valour, accompanied by his army, by releasing a multitude of arrows, killed a very many number of monkeys. 82.17

In that battle, the soldiers of Indrajit also killed monkeys with spears, tips of arrows, swords, sharp edged weapons and also concealed weapon. 82.18

The very strong Hanuman played havoc among the Rakshasas who did terrible deeds using trees with excellent branches and also with rocks. 82.19

Keeping the enemy army back, Hanuman spoke to the other monkeys like this, "Retreat; there is no need to conquer this enemy now." 82.20

"That Sita for whose sake we were prepared to sacrifice our lives with a wish to do what would make Rama happy has been killed." 82.21

"We would inform about this matter to Rama and even Sugreeva and then act according to what they both want us to do." 82.22

After speaking like this to the monkeys and holding them back, Hanuman, the chief of monkeys without any fear along with his army turned back. 82.23

Seeing Hanuman withdrawing and going to the place where Rama was there, that evil soul went to the temple [sanctuary?] called Nikumbila, with an aim to pour oblations in the sacred fire. 82.24

After reaching Nikumbila Indrajit poured oblations in the sacred fire, which when propitiated by the Rakshasa by offer of meat and flesh blazed up and consumed them. 82.25-82.26

Swollen up by the oblations of blood that sacred fire which was highly intense appeared like the evening sun wrapped up in flames. 82.27

Then, Indrajit, well-versed with the technique of performance of Yagnas for the prosperity of the demons, poured oblations according to the scriptural precepts. Seeing this, those Rakshasas, who knew what was prudent and evil in major battles, stood firm as a big crowd by his side. 82.28

This is the end of Eighty Second Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

83. Lakshmana Enraged

[When Hanuman tells the news of Sita's death, Rama faints. Lakshmana, who comes there, says that following Dharma is foolish. He further tells that in this world most important thing is wealth and strength which follows wealth.]

On hearing the great sound of the battle between Rakshasas and monkeys Rama spoke like this to Jambavan. 83.1

"Oh gentle one, by the way that we hear the rattling sound of weapons, it seems that Hanuman is doing a very difficult job. I am certain of this." 83.2

"And so oh lord of bears, accompanied by your own army quickly go there and help that Hanuman who is fighting there." 83.3

Agreeing to that Jambavan surrounded by his own army went towards the western gate where Hanuman was fighting. 83.4

Then Jambavan saw Hanuman coming surrounded by all his monkeys, who had already fought terribly but now sighing with sorrow. 83.5

Seeing that terrible army of bears who looked like a dark cloud on its way to join the battle, Hanuman intercepted them and told about everything. 83.6

With great speed the great soul Hanuman sought the presence of Rama along with his army and spoke the following words to him. 83.7

"When we were fighting in the battle, while we were seeing, Indrajit the son of Ravana killed Sita who was weeping." 83.8

"Oh destroyer of enemies, with a heavily distressed mind, I saw this and felt greatly sad and I have come here to tell you about that." 83.9

Hearing those words, Rama became very sad and fainted and fell on the ground like a tree whose roots are cut off. 83.10

Seeing him, who was resembling gods falling on the ground, all the chiefs of the monkeys came there bouncing and rushed towards him. 83.11

They all sprinkled on him water scented with lotus and lilies as one would do over a fire which has suddenly flared up and burning everything. 83.12

Then the very sad Lakshmana hugged and took the ailing Rama in his arms and spoke the following very meaningful words. 83.13

"Oh gentle brother, Dharma cannot save you now and you have been sticking to the path of virtue and won over your senses and these cannot save you from adversities." 83.14

"Just like you can see animate and inanimate things, you cannot see the differences between virtues and vice and according to me Dharma does not exist." 83.15

"Just like you can see animate and inanimate things, you cannot see the differences between virtues and vice and so a man who follows Dharma like you should not fail like this." 83.16

"If not following Dharma has any effect, Ravana should have gone to hell and you have always been with Dharma and so you should not undergo such sorrow and suffering." 83.17

"Since there is no sorrow occurring to Ravana and sorrow has come to you, the result of following vice is Dharma and the result of following vice is Dharma and the opposites seem to have changed each other's role." 83.18

"If fruit of Dharma can only be obtained by Dharma, and fruit of vice can only be obtained only by vice then those who are rooted in vice alone can get only the fruit of vice and those who are rooted in Dharma can only get fruit of Dharma." 83.19-83.20

"When we see that those in whom vice is rooted become prosperous and those who are rooted in Dharma suffer, we feel that both Dharma and vice are useless." 83.21

"Oh Rama, if people who do sin are killed by their vice and then that vice would be forthwith destroyed and afterwards whom will those unrighteous destroy?" 83.22

"If a man is killed while performing a ritual prescribed in the scriptures or kills another while performing that ritual, that fate makes that action tainted by the sinful act and not the agent." 83.23

"Oh Rama, the destroyer of enemies, it s not clear to me how prosperity can be attained by Dharma for it is attained by luck alone, Hence to me Dharma seems to be non-existent." 83.24

"Oh chief among those, who follow Dharma, if Dharma really exists no misfortune would have occurred to you and since you have got in to this calamity and the hypotheses that good will accrue by Dharma is not proved." 83.25

"Or else if Dharma becomes weak and cowardly and it surrenders before strength, I have a feeling that Dharma which lacks strength should not be pursued." 83.26

"So please depend on your strength as you do now to Dharma. If Dharma is subordinate to strength, give up the feeling of predominance to Dharma." 83.27

"Oh destroyer of enemies, if speaking truth is Dharma, where did Dharma go when our father was not true to his promise, was merciless to you and was disunited from you. Where you not bound by the announcement made by our father making you Yuvaraja?" 83.28

"Oh tormentor of enemies, if Dharma or vice is with worth pursuing, Indra the wielder of Vajrayudha would not have performed a sacrifice after killing Viswarupa." 83.29

"Oh son of Kakustha clan, Dharma leads to destruction but when vice is united with strength, a man does everything according to his will." 83.30

"In this case my opinion is Dharma consists of Dharma and strength and you have cut off the roots of Dharma, by spurning the kingdom at that time." 83.31

"By collecting treasures from place to place and augmenting it by different actions, all tasks are indeed fulfilled, like the river flowing from the mountain." 83.32

"Being bereft of treasures a man loses his luster, like small rivers getting dry during summer season." 83.33

"One who is brought up in comfort, when he renounces wealth and then seeks comfort does a sinful act and only evil flow from it." 83.34

"Friends gather round him, who has riches. Relatives stand by him, who has riches. He alone is virile in the world, who has riches. He alone is a learned man, who has riches." 83.35

"He alone is a mighty man, who has riches. He alone is a prudent man, who has riches. He alone is highly fortunate. He alone is distinguished, who has riches." 83.36

"Oh brave one I told you about the evils one faces when one sacrifices wealth and I know extremely well the reasons for which you sacrificed the kingdom." 83.37

"When one has wealth, religious merit is obtained by him. Every one would go round him and to the penniless man, who has desire to earn wealth, even hunting for wealth may not be possible and he can never be wealthy." 83.38

"Oh king, Joy, pleasures, pride, virtue, anger, peace, control of senses are all attained by those who have wealth." 83.39

"Those riches, due to giving up of which material happiness is lost in case of people, who practice Dharma are not seen in you, similar to planets are not seen on cloudy days. 83.40

"Oh valorous one, while you were in exile in the forest by the command of your father, your wife who was more dear than soul itself for you, was stolen away by that Rakshasa." 83.41

"Oh valorous one, I am only trying to dispel that great agony that you are undergoing caused by Indrajit. Therefore, Rama, please get up." 83.42

"Oh tiger among men, Oh long armed one, oh person with firm resolve, get up. Being great with a disciplined mind, why do you not understand about yourself?" 83.43

"Oh matchless one, On seeing the death of Sita, I am greatly enraged. Please get up and do a favour for me. I shall completely destroy with my arrows Lanka, along with its chariots, elephants, and horses along with Ravana." 83.44

This is the end of Eighty Third Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

84. Vibheeshana's Advice to Stop Indrajit's Yagna

[Vibheeshana arrives there at that time and assures Rama, that Ravana would never consent to the killing of Sita. He informs that if Indrajit completes the Yagna at Nikumbila, he would become invincible. He requests Rama to send Lakshmana with him so that the Yagna can be stopped.]

When Lakshmana who was fond of his brother was consoling Rama, Vibheeshana after settling down the monkey army in proper positions came there. 84.1

Vibheeshana surrounded by four warriors looking like heaps of collyrium, who were chiefs of troops, who were armed with several types of weapons and who were looking like elephants approached Lakshmana who was drowned in sorrow and the monkeys whose eyes were full of tears. 84.2-84.3

He also saw the great soul Rama, who was the son of the Ikshuvaku clan having fainted and resting on the lap of Lakshmana. 84.4

Seeing that embarrassed Rama who was tormented by sorrow that Vibheeshana who was distressed by the sight, with great agony asked, "What is all this?" 84.5

Seeing the face of Vibheeshana and also seeing Sugreeva and other monkeys Lakshmana with tears flowing from his eyes spoke these greatly meaningful words. 84.6

"Oh gentle one, on hearing the words from Hanuman that Sita was killed by Indrajit, Rama fainted and fell down." 84.7

Intercepting Lakshmana while he was narrating Vibheeshana spoke these meaningful words to Rama who was unconscious. 84.8

"Oh king among men, I think what you have been told by Hanuman with great sorrow to be as absurd as drying of the sea." 84.9

"Oh long armed one, I know what opinion, the evil minded Ravana holds about Sita. He would never do the killing of Sita." 84.10

"Though as a well wisher of Ravana I begged him several times to give up Sita, he did not agree to my advice." 84.11

"It could not be done neither by peace, dissension and by giving gift and how is it possible by fight or any other means?" 84.12

"Oh great one, after hoodwinking these monkeys by illusion, he played the part. Please know that Sita whom he killed is an illusion." 84.13

"After reaching the temple by name of Nikumbila, this son of Ravana will pour oblations into the sacred fire. On returning after the pouring oblations into the sacred fire, Indrajit will prove difficult to be defeated in battle, even by devas including Indra." 84.14

"It is definite that it was a show of illusion that he performed using magical tricks. Expecting these valorous monkeys would accept it." 84.15

"Before the sacrifice is completed, we should go there along with the army. Oh tiger among men. Give up this improper sorrow which has come upon you.. On seeing you suffering from sorrow all your army is becoming despondent." 84.16-84.17

"You please stay here with a peaceful heart and confidence. and send with us Lakshmana and the army." 84.18

"Let this tiger among men using very sharp arrows make the son of Ravana abandon the act of sacrifice and then it is possible to kill him." 84.19

"Lakshmana's arrows which are very fiery and very sharp with a speed of the wings of the bird can drink his blood like the birds which are not lovely." 84.20

"Oh long armed one, so send the auspicious looking Lakshmana, who is like the thunderbolt sent by Indra the king of devas, to kill Indrajit." 84.21

"Oh best among men, it is not proper to delay the killing of the enemy and so now you give permission by your words to Lakshmana to destroy the enemy as Indra would hurl his Vajrayudha to kill enemies of devas." 84.22

"If that Indrajit, the greatest among Rakshasas completes his sacrifice he will become invisible and even devas and Asuras would not be able to see him in the battle. If after completing the sacrifice, he comes to fight, even the devas would not be confidant to retain their lives in a battle with him." 84.23

This is the end of Eighty Fourth Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

85. Lakshmana Reaches Nikumbila

[Rama requests Vibheeshana to repeat what he said. Vibheeshana says that if the Yagna at Nikumbila is stopped, then only Indrajit can be killed. Lakshmana along with his army reach Nikumbila in time.]

Rama who was greatly sorrowing after hearing those words could not understand clearly what was told by the Rakshasa. 85.1

Then Rama the conqueror of enemy cities after taking courage spoke to Vibheeshana who was sitting near him and in front of the monkeys. 85.2

"Oh king of Rakshasas, I want to hear the words spoken by you again. And please tell me again, what you wanted to tell me." 85.3

That expert in speech after hearing the words of Raghava spoken with sadness again spoke those words gently. 85.4

"Oh long armed valorous one, you had ordered me to marshal the troops properly and immediately after hearing your words, I have done accordingly." 85.5

"All those armies were properly divided and positioned at all places and I have even the commanders were also properly positioned as per their ranks." 85.6

"Oh Great Lord, I have to tell you something more and please listen to it, when you are sorrowing without any reason, we all feel pain in our hearts." 85.7

"Oh king, please leave this false sorrow that has come to you.. Let your worry, which will increase the pleasure of your enemies may be given up." 85.8

"Oh valorous one, if you want to get back your Sita then the Rakshasas are to be destroyed and so suit yourself to the required action and become cheerful." 85.9

"Oh son of Raghu clan, please listen to what I tell which is for your benefit. Immediately Lakshmana accompanied by a large army should reach Nikumbila and kill Indrajit by releasing fatal and serpentine snake like arrows." 85.10-85.11

"That valorous one by penance addressed to Lord Brahma has obtained Brahma arrow and horses which travel according to his will." 85.12

"He has now reached Nikumbila along with his army. And suppose he completes the fire sacrifice there and comes back, know that all of us would be killed." 85.13

A boon was given to that intelligent Rakshasa by Brahma, the god of all worlds as follows, "Oh Indrajit, oh long armed one that valorous enemy who strikes you with his bow drawn, while you are going to Nikumbila or while you have not arrived at Nikumbila or while you have not offered your oblations at Nikumbila would be the cause of your death." 85.14-85.15

"Oh very strong Rama, give orders for killing Indrajit for when he is killed know that Ravana along his friends is also killed." 85.16

Hearing the words of Vibheeshana, Rama replied to him, "Oh truly valorous one, I know about the illusion created by that angry Rakshasa." 85.17

"That intelligent Indrajit knows how to use the arrow of Brahma and he is also the master of many magical tricks. Also he is so strong that in battle he can make Varuna and other Gods faint." 85.18

"The movement of that very famous hero while he travels in his chariot on the sky is not known to others, like the sun cannot be seen if there are dense clouds." 85.19

Knowing well the valour and magical tricks of that evil minded enemy, Rama spoke to Lakshmana endowed with great glory. 85.20

"Oh Lakshmana, You, accompanied by that entire army which stands at the disposal of Sugreeva, along with the troop-commanders with Hanuman as their head and protected by Jambavan the lord of bears, who will be accompanied by his army, go and kill that Indrajit the prince of Rakshasas, rich in the power of magical tricks." 85.21-85.22

"Along with his ministers the great Rakshasa who knows all his magical tricks will follow behind you." 85.23

Hearing the words of Raghava, Lakshmana who is of matchless valour, along with Vibheeshana gathered his excellent bow. 85.24

The happy son of Sumithra well prepared wearing his armour, and holding his sword, arrows and bow in his left hand, touched the feet of Rama and told. 85.25

"Today the arrows released from my bow would pierce the son of Ravana and fall in the city of Lanka like the swans descending in to the lotus pond. 85.26

"Now itself my arrows released from the bow string of my great bow would split his angry body and would blow him away." 85.27

That greatly lustrous one after speaking like this in front of his brother, with the desire to kill the son of Ravana marched quickly from there. 85.28

After saluting, the feet of his elder brother and after going round him, he went towards the temple [sanctuary] of Nikumbila protected by the son of Ravana. 85.29

The glorious Lakshmana the son of the king, after obtaining the blessings of his brother, quickly started along with Vibheeshana. 85.30

He was accompanied by many thousands of monkeys lead by Hanuman and Vibheeshana and all his ministers followed him behind. 85.31

When he along with a huge monkey army was going speedily he saw the great bear army lead by Jambavan on the way. 85.32

After going a long distance with difficulty and speed the son of Sumithra who was a joy to his friends saw at a distance saw the army of Rakshasa which was battle ready. 85.33

Arriving at Nikumbila that son of Raghu clan, who was a destroyer of his enemies who had a bow in hand saw Indrajit who was an expert in magic as per the boon obtained from Brahma. 85.34

That famous son of a king was along with Vibheeshana, heroic Angadha, and Hanuman the son of wind God. 85.35

Lakshmana entered the enemy camp, which consisted of different types of people, completely covered with flags and with huge number of chariots with array of spotless weapons with unimaginable speed similar to one who enters the veil of darkness. 85.36

This is the end of Eighty Fifth Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

86. Yagna at Nikumbila Stopped

[Lakshmana using ferocious attack on Rakshasas stops the Yagna at Nikumbila. Indrajit, coimbs on his chariot and comes to fight. When he sees Hanuman killing Rakshasas, he takes an arrow to kill Hanuman. Vibheeshana advises Lakshmana to kill Indrajit.]

In that circumstance, the brother of Ravana spoke to Lakshmana words which are advantageous to him and disadvantageous to the enemies. 86.1

"Let this army of Rakshasas which looks black like the cloud be opposed in a battle by the monkeys using Rocks as weapons." 86.2

"Oh Lakshmana then you to try to break that mighty army, for when the army is broken, Indrajit would come in to our vision." 86.3

"Then you rush forward quickly by keeping on sending arrows equal to Indra's thunder bolt on the enemies so that the fire sacrifice is not carried through." 86.4

"Oh valorous one, kill the son of Ravana who is an evil soul interested in performing conjuring tricks, which are unjust, who does cruel deeds and who makes all the world scared." 86.5

After hearing the words of Vibheeshana, the auspicious looking Lakshmana rained arrows which were aimed at the son of the king of Rakshasas. 86.6

The bears as well as monkeys, who fight with huge trees rushed towards the Rakshasa army arranged in a battle array. 86.7

The Rakshasas also using sharp arrows, swords, spears and Javelins attacked the monkeys in the battle with an intent to kill them. 86.8

With a great noise that tumultuous battle which was fought between monkeys and Rakshasas made Lanka very noisy from all directions. 86.9

The sky was completely covered by weapons of various types like sharp arrows, trees and tossed up mountain tops. 86.10

Those Rakshasas with ugly faces and arms by hurling various weapons on the monkeys created great fear among them. 86.11

The monkeys too struck and killed all the Rakshasas in the battle with all types of trees and peaks of mountains. 86.12

When the chiefs of monkeys and bears who were very strong and had huge bodies started killing them, the Rakshasas were greatly scared. 86.13

Hearing that his army is being tormented by enemies and were dejected, the unconquerable Indrajit left the place of sacrifice without completing the sacrifice. 86.14

The very angry son of Ravana came out of the darkness created by trees and ascended his firmly yoked chariot which was kept ready. 86.15

That huge one, along with his huge bow and arrows, looking like a mountain of collyrium with blood red eyes appeared like the cruel God of death. 86.16

When the army of Rakshasas saw Indrajit riding on a chariot, with a great speed they turned back with a desire to fight with Lakshmana, 86.17

At that time Hanuman, the destroyer of enemies who was looking like a mountain lifted a matchless large tree and killed the army of Rakshasas like the fire at deluge and he also made many soldiers of Rakshasa army unconscious. 86.18-86.19

Seeing that son of wind god destroying their army with great speed thousand of Rakshasas hurled their weapon at him. 86.20

Approaching Hanuman who was looking like a mountain, the Rakshasas bearing pointed pikes struck him from all sides with pikes, those carrying swords in their hands with swords, those carrying javelins in their hands with javelins, those carrying iron rods and maces with iron rods with maces, those armed with sharp-edged spears with bright-looking spears, with hundreds of cylindrical wooden pieces studded with iron spikes, with steel hammers, with awful axes, with slings for the rowing stones, with their thunderbolt-like fists and slaps which fell like flashes of lightning. Then, the enraged Hanuman made a colossal destruction of those demons. 86.21-86.24

That Indrajit saw that monkey chief who was similar to a mountain, without any fear killing his enemies. 86.25

He then spoke the following words to his charioteer, "Go to the place where the monkey is fighting. If he is neglected then he will definitely kill all the Rakshasas." 86.26

When Indrajit ordered like this that charioteer carrying the greatly unconquerable Indrajit who as sitting on the chariot went to the place Where Hanuman was there. 86.27

After Coming near Hanuman that Rakshasa who is difficult to be defeated hurled swords, spears and axes aimed at the head of Hanuman. 86.28

Receiving those weapons which were terrible, that son of wind god with great anger spoke the following words. 86.29

"Oh evil minded son of Ravana, if you think you are really valorous fight with me and then you would not go back alive." 86.30

"Oh fool, if you wrestle with me with me using bare arms and can withstand my force, then you would be considered as the best among Rakshasas." 86.31

When the son of Ravana was trying to kill Hanuman, with raising his bow, Vibheeshana told Lakshmana. 86.32

Seated in a chariot that son of Ravana who has defeated Indra is trying to kill Hanuman. 86.33

"Oh Lakshmana, using your very horrifying arrows made as a result of great craftsmanship, which drives away your enemies and kills them, kill that Indrajit." 86.34

After hearing these words of Vibheeshana who was a sight of scare to his enemies that great Lakshmana saw Indrajit who was like a mountain, who has great strength and who was difficult to approach seated on his chariot. 86.35

This is the end of Eighty Sixth Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

87. Vibheeshana Takes Lakshmana to Sacred Spot

[Vibheeshana then takes Lakshmana to the banyan tree in the sacred spot. He says, if Indrajit offers oblations there no one can kill him. Indrajit comes there at that time and shouts against Vibheeshana for doing treacherous act against his own brother's son. Vibheeshana replies.]

After speaking like this to the son of Sumithra, Vibheeshana was happy, and took his hand which held the bow in to his hands and speedily walked away from there. 87.1

Moving not very far from there and entering in to a great forest Vibheeshana showed the place where Indrajit was proposing to pour the oblations. 87.2

Showing a very huge banyan tree which looked like a black cloud, that brother of Ravana with great luster told Lakshmana. 87.3

"After offering oblations to the spirits here that strong son of Ravana, would proceed to the battle from here." 87.4

"Then that Rakshasa would become invisible to all beings and then he kills some enemies and ties some other enemies with his great arrows." 87.5

"Before that very strong son of Ravana reaches this banyan tree kill him with your sharp arrows along with his chariot, horses and charioteer." 87.6

When the son of Sumithra, the delight to his friends who was greatly lustrous was told like this he said, "So be it" and stood there twanging his wonderful bow at full length. 87.7

That strong Indrajit, son of Ravana riding on a chariot of the colour of fire with a flag, wearing an armour and sword appeared there. 87.8

Then that very lustrous one spoke to Indrajit of the Paulasthya clan who had never been defeated, "I am inviting you to fight with me. Give me a war which is right." 87.9

When the greatly lustrous one told like this to the self willed son of Ravana, seeing Vibheeshana there, he spoke the following harsh words to him. 87.10

"You have brought him in this place and you are the brother of my father and oh Rakshasa, being a father, how can you be hostile to a son?" 87.11

"Oh evil minded person, oh hater of Dharma, you do not consider about birth in the same clan as brotherhood or pride of birth or desirable or sharing dharma." 87.12

"Oh evil minded person, you evoke pity and deserves to be reproached by people having good mind as you have abandoned your own people and entered in to service of the enemy." 87.13

"You are not able to appreciate the difference due to your feeble mind between living together with your clan and living along with the enemies." 87.14

"Enemies may have good qualities and our own people may have bad qualities but in spite of that our own people without any good qualities are preferable, as enemies are always enemies." 87.15

"He who deserts his own people and serves the side of his enemies, would lead to the destruction of his own people and he would be later killed by those enemies." 87.16

"Oh brother of Ravana, Oh Rakshasa, the ruthlessness shown by you in bringing Lakshmana here is abhorring and is possible only by you among our people." 87.17

Hearing these words of his brother's son Vibheeshana replied, "Why are you talking like this, though you know my character well." 87.18

"Oh wicked son of the king of Rakshasas, at least due to respect to elders do not speak harshly. Though I am born in the Rakshasa clan, who do cruel deeds, I am by nature good, which is prime virtue of human beings and not Rakshasas." 87.19

"I do not love cruel acts and going against Dharma does not interest me. How can a brother drive away his brother, even if his nature is different?" 87.20

"Abandoning a man of sinful conduct whose conduct has deviated from Dharma, one attains happiness like a man shaking away a poisonous serpent from his hand." 87.21

"The wise people say that abandoning an evil soul who steals properties of others, or with lust touches the wife of others, is like abandoning a burning house." 87.22

"Stealing others property, touching lustfully wife of others, and not trusting one's own friends are the three faults that lead to destruction." 87.23

"The great faults like killing of great sages, war against gods, arrogance, short temper quarrelsomeness and ill will, which destroys life and lordship, have concealed all good qualities of my brother like clouds conceal mountains." 87.24-87.25

"Because of these faults I have abandoned my brother who is your father. The city of Lanka, you and your father would not exist for a long time." 87.26

"Oh Rakshasa, you can talk in any manner to me as you like as you are arrogant, foolish, undisciplined and tied by the noose of God of death." 87.27

"Oh worst Rakshasa, you have got in to this sorrow because you spoke harsh words with me today. You cannot reach the Banyan tree today." 87.28

"If you attack the son of Kakustha clan, you will not be able to live, When you enter in to battle with the God among men Lakshmana, you will be killed and do the work of Gods in the abode of Yama." 87.29

"Show off your strength of soul that you have earned, by spending away all your weapons because you would not be returning alive to your army today." 87.30

This is the end of Eighty Seventh Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

88. Great War Between Indrajit and Lakshmana

[A great war of words as well as arrows ensue. Though both of them were hit by each other, they did not feel tired.]

Hearing the words of Sugreeva, the son of Ravana got very angry and spoke harsher words and rushed forward in rage. 88.1

Indrajit who was looking like the God of death at time of final deluge and sat on a well decorated and distinguished chariot, yoked with black horses. He was armed with upraised bow and other weapons besides a big, terrific, strong, enormous and swift bow and also had arrows which can torment enemies. 88.2-88.3

That strong one who was fully adorned, carrying a very large bow sat on a chariot and saw Lakshmana, brother of Rama who was wearing ornaments having great splendour. 88.4

Indrajit hurriedly spoke to the great monkey Hanuman and to the son of Sumithra who had climbed on Hanuman's back and who had the splendour of the rising sun and to Vibheeshana "Now you will be witnessing my valour." 88.5

"Now you would be facing the rain of my arrows released in the sky from my bow which are indefensible, in the battle field." 88.6

"Today the arrows which are to be released from my great bow will destroy your bodies, like fire destroys a pile of cotton." 88.7

"Today I will pierce you with sharp arrows, spears, javelins and lances and send all of you the world of God of death, Yama." 88.8

"Who can afford to stand before me, when I release my rain of arrows like the thundering of the cloud with my swift hand in the battle." 88.9

"Earlier in a battle at night, both of you along with Sugreeva and all your followers were made unconscious by my arrows which appeared to have a diamond tip and were made to fall down on the floor. 88.10

"Do you not remember that? I feel that you are all on the road to the world of Yama since you have come here to give me a battle in spite of my anger." 88.11

Hearing that roar of that king of Rakshasas, Lakshmana with a courageous face spoke the following words to the angry son of Ravana. 88.12

"Oh Rakshasa You were talking about completion of tasks which are difficult to achieve. He alone is considered cleaver who completes his job wherever practicable." 88.13

"Oh evil minded one, you are thinking that you have completed your job by telling it by words alone and the job is difficult to achieve by any one and you do not have the capacity to achieve." 88.14

"On that day, you became invisible in the battle field and that way is followed only by thieves and not valorous heroes." 88.15

"Oh Rakshasa, have you used up all your great arrows? Now I am standing before you and so show your strength today. What is the point bragging about it?" 88.16

Hearing these words, the very strong Indrajit who has been victorious in battles reached for his very huge bow and sent very many sharp arrows from it. 88.17

Duely reaching Lakshmana, the arrows released by Indrajit, which rushed with great speed and were as deadly as the venom of serpents, fell like the hissing of snakes. 88.18

Indrajit, the son of Ravana who was swift released very speedy arrows in the battle on Lakshmana who had auspicious signs. 88.19

With arrows piercing Lakshmana's body, it was drenched in blood and it shined like a fire without smoke. 88.20

Thinking over the great job done by him, Indrajit approached Lakshmana and gave out a great roar and spoke the following words. 88.21

"Oh Lakshmana the sharp edged, fatal arrows of mine which have wings, released from my bow will now take your life." 88.22

"Oh Lakshmana, Let large number of jackals, vultures and hawks descend upon you, when you have been hit by me and are dead." 88.23

"The very evil minded, ever ungentlemanly Rama now itself would be able to see you, his very devoted brother who is only a namesake Kshatriya killed by me." 88.24

"Oh son of Sumithra, you would be struck down by me with your armour broken, with bow scattered and your head cut off." 88.25

When the son of Ravana told these words with anger and harshness, Lakshmana who had a command of the language replied with these logical words. 88.26

"Oh evil minded Rakshasa, omit these empty words as well as cruel deeds. Why are you engaged in idle talk? Prove it with your good work." 88.27

"Oh Rakshasa, without doing any act, why are you boasting about yourself? Perform your job by which I can believe in your boasting." 88.28

Oh worst of males, without talking even a few harsh words, without abusing you and without talking about myself, I would kill you." 88.29

After talking like this Lakshmana took hold of five steel arrows pulled them up to his ears and hit that Rakshasas's chest with great speed. 88.30

Those arrows with feathered and golden plumes shining like serpents, hit the chest of the Rakshasa and shined like rays of Sun. 88.31

Then the son of Ravana who was struck by those arrows got very angry and pierced Lakshmana with three well directed arrows. 88.32

That very terrific fight between the lions among men and Rakshasas, each of whom wanted to conquer the other became tumultuous and terrific. 88.33

Both of them were endowed with strength and both of them were valorous, both of them were very difficult to defeat and both matchless in their strength and luster. 88.34

Those two people who were difficult to defeat were like planets in the sky and fought like Indra and Vruthrasura. 88.35

Those two great people fought like lions and were engaging several streams of arrows and those chief of men and chief of Rakshasas fought with great joy. 88.36-88.37

Then the son of Dasaratha, the tormenter of his enemies, after fitting arrows on his bow released them on Indrajit and they went there like hissing serpents. 88.38

When the lord of the Rakshasas heard the twang sound made by Lakshmana, he became pale faced and he fixed his gaze on Lakshmana." 88.39

Seeing that Rakshasa who was the son of Ravana becoming pale faced Vibheeshana told Lakshmana who was engaged in the battle. 88.40

"Oh long armed one, I am seeing certain signs in the son of Ravana indicating that he is disappointed and so without any doubt make haste. 88.41

Then fitting on his bow sharp arrows which were similar to poisonous snakes, that son of Sumithra, sent those arrows which were like serpents full of poison. 88.42

Wounded by the arrows of Lakshmana, which invaded all his senses which was like the painful touch of Indra's thunderbolt, Indrajit was stupefied for a moment. 88.43

Gaining back his consciousness in a moment and with regaining control of his sense organs, He saw the valiant son of Dasaratha before him. 88.44

With eyes turning red due to anger, he walked near to the son of Sumithra and again told these very harsh words. 88.45

"Why are you not remembering my valour in the first encounter between us, when I tied you and your brother and you wriggled on the floor." 88.46

"Both of you in that war by my arrows which were equal to Indra's thunderbolt, were laid down unconscious on the earth." 88.47

"The fact that you desire to attack me may mean that the memory of that incident is not with you or you desire to go the land of Yama." 88.48

"If you were not able to see my prowess in the first encounter, stand ready, for I am going to show you my valour now." 88.49

Speaking thus he hit Lakshmana with seven arrows with the ten best of arrows which were sharp he hit Hanuman. 88.50
Then that valorous one with twice that much anger using one hundred well aimed arrows wounded Vibheeshana. 88.51

When the younger brother of Rama saw the great feat accomplished by Indrajit, he disregarded it and derided it by saying, "This is nothing", greatly enraged and with a fearless face, that best among men, took out some very terrific arrows and sent them towards Indrajit. 88.52-88.53

"Oh Rakshasa, true heroes in a battle do not strike like this, since your arrows are weak, mild and without strength." 88.54

"Those valorous persons who are aiming at victory do not fight like this", saying like this Lakshmana rained more arrows on Indrajit. 88.55

Then hit by Lakshmana's arrows of large armour made of gold slipped down in the middle of the chariot looking like cobweb of stars falling from the sky. 88.56

The valorous Indrajit with his armour destroyed by those steel arrows and also having been wounded looked like the sun at dawn. 88.57

Then greatly enraged that son of Ravana using one thousand arrows wounded Lakshmana in that great battle. 88.58

The large divine armour of Lakshmana broke in to pieces and thus those two great warriors vied with each other in attack and retaliation. 88.59

Those two with all their body wounded in that fight, were coated with blood and breathing with difficulty continued to battle tumultuously. 88.60

For a long time those valorous ones who were both greatly skilled in war using very sharp arrows were cutting each other. 88.61

Those two heroes of terrific prowess stayed on with great effort trying for their own victory, and as they were wounded all over with a multitude of arrows as also their armour and standards have been torn to pieces were seen emitting hot blood, just as two water-falls gushing hot water. 88.62

A long time elapsed while the two warriors fought sending terrific stream of arrows with an awful clamour, similar to two dark destructive clouds raining from the sky. They neither turned their back from the battle, nor experienced any tiredness. 88.63-88.64

Those best among archers showed off their skill in arrows again and again and created net work of arrows big and small in the sky. 88.65

Loosening their arrows without error, gracefully and easily in a wonderful way, both the man and the Rakshasa carried on a tumultuous and terrific war. 88.66

Again a again a terrible sound which was greatly tumultuous which was horrifying was created and it was similar to a very great thunder storm. 88.67

The sound of fight created by those two who were engaged in a great fight was similar to the rumbling of thunder created by two great clouds in the sky. 88.68

Using sharp steel arrows decorated by gold and wings they wounded each other and those two famous warriors fighting for victory profusely bled. 88.69

Those arrows decorated by wings after wounding them fell on the earth smeared with blood and pierced the earth. 88.70

Other properly aimed arrows sent by them clashed in thousands with other sharp weapons on the sky and shattered and broke them. 88.71

The pile of arrows lying on the battle field resembled like a huge heap of sacred Kusha grass by the side of the sacred fire in sacrifices. 88.72

The wounded and bleeding bodies of those two mighty warriors shone like Kimshuka and Shalmali trees in full blossom, deprived of leaves. 88.73

Indrajit and Lakshmana wishing for their own victory again and again carried on a very tumultuous and terrific battle. 88.74

In that war Lakshmana was hurting Indrajit and Indrajit was hurting Lakshmana and though both of them were hurting each other, they both did not feel tired. 88.75

With those net of arrows entering their body and hurting them those auspicious great warriors were looking like a mountains throwing out plants from them. 88.76

At that their bodies dampened all over by blood and covered with arrows all over shined very much like burning fires. 88.77

Though a lot of time elapsed when these warriors were engaged in fighting, they did not turn their back to the battle nor felt tired. 88.78

Then, to relieve tiredness due to the battle of Lakshmana, who did not experience defeat in any aspect of the war, the great-soul Vibheeshana, offering agreeable and salutary words, took up his position, on reaching the battle-field. 88.79

This is the end of Eighty Eighth Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

89. Vibheeshana and Monkey Chiefs Join Battle

[Vibheeshana and his ministers join the battle by killing many Rakshasas. Jambavan and Hanuman also kill many Rakshasas. Lakshmana kills the charioteer of Indrajit. The monkey chiefs crush his horses. Lakshmana and Indrajit fight standing on earth.]

Seeing the man and Rakshasa fighting with commitment in that war like elephants in rut aimed at their victory, the very strong brother of Ravana holding a strong bow stood at the battle front. 89.1-89.2

Then standing there, he stretched the string of his great bow, he released several sharp pointed arrows on the Rakshasas. 89.3

Those arrows falling like fire, hit the correct aim and tore the Rakshasas in to pieces like Vajrayudha uprooting great mountains. 89.4

The attendants of Vibheeshana who were great Rakshasas also armed with spikes, swords and spears tore of those valorous Rakshasas. 89.5

Surrounded by all those Rakshasas that Vibheeshana shined like an elephant in the middle of proud young tuskers. 89.6

Vibheeshana, the great Rakshasa who was an expert on proper timing spoke the following right words to those monkeys who were thirsting to kill the Rakshasas in order to inspire them. 89.7

"Oh monkey chiefs, here is the only one whom the king of Rakshasas considers as his last and only support in his army. Why are you all standing idle?" 89.8

"At the end of the war, if this sinful Rakshasa is killed, the remaining Rakshasas can be killed easily, except for Ravana." 89.9

Prahastha was killed. The valiant Nikumbha, the mighty Kumbhakarna, Kumbha, the Rakshasa called Dhoomraksha, Jambumali, Mahamali, the highly swift Ashaniprabha, Suptaghna, Yajnakopa, a Rakshasa named Vajradamshtra, Samhadri, Vikata the destroyer of enemies, Tapana, Manda, Praghaasa, Praghasa, PrajaNgha, Janga, Agniketu who was difficult to be conquered, the valorous Rashmiketu, vidyujjihva, Dvijihva, Suryashatru, Akampana, Suparshva, Chakramali, Kampana and the mighty Devantaka were also killed." 89.10-89.14

Having already killed several very strong Rakshasa greats by your hands which was like crossing an ocean, now only this small puddle is left to be crossed. 89.15

"Only this many Rakshasa army remains to be conquered by you as all Rakshasa who were proud of their great strength have been killed by you." 89.16

"Though I would like to kill for the sake of Rama my elder brother's son, I am not doing it as killing of a son is not appropriate." 89.17

"When I think of killing him myself my eyes are getting clouded with tears and so let the long armed Lakshmana himself kill him. Oh monkeys all of you together kill all his attendants who are surrounding him." 89.18
Thus encouraged by the very famous Vibheeshana, all those monkey chiefs became very happy and lashed with their tails. 89.19

Then, those monkey chiefs, roaring again and again, shouted various kinds of sounds resembling the sounds of peacocks at the time of seeing the clouds. 89.20

The monkeys, along with Jambhavan and monkeys belonging to the other formations, who were equal in strength, started hitting the Rakshasa troops with nails, stone and teeth. 89.21

All those very strong Rakshasas who were armed with several weapons, left of their fear and started attacking Jambhavan as he was killing many of them. 89.22

They started striking Jambhavan, who was killing the army of Rakshasas in that battle, with sharp axes, spears with sharp edges, sticks and javelins. 89.23

A greatly tumultuous battle took place between those monkeys and Rakshasas and it was like the battle between the angry devas and the Rakshasas. 89.24

When Hanuman was seen as very greatly angry that Lakshmana got down from his back, and Hanuman uprooting a Sala tree from a mountain approached those Rakshasas and started killing them in thousands. 89.25-89.26

After offering a very tumultuous battle to the brother of his father, Indrajit again rushed towards Lakshmana to fight with him. 89.27

The two valiant heroes, Lakshmana and Indrajit, the two intense fighters in battle, then began to strike each other, showering a multitude of arrows on each other. 89.28

Those strong and energetic warriors try to cover each other by sending network of arrows similar to sun and moon being covered by the clouds. 89.29

Due to the dexterity of their hands, when they were fighting there, neither the holding of the bow, nor the taking off the arrows, nor fitting them on their bow-string, nor adjusting their fists, nor drawing the bow-string nor attaining the target was visible. 89.30-89.31

The sky covered with the network of arrows which were discharged with great force by them in all directions was dark making objects there not visible. 89.32

Lakshmana dashed with the son of Ravana, Indrajit clashed with the son of Sumithra and as they continued to clash with each other there was great confusion. 89.33

By the sharp arrows continuously released with great force by both of them, the entire sky was covered with darkness. 89.34

BY the fall of very many sharp arrows in hundreds, the directions and sub directions were completely filled with arrows. 89.35

All the space was covered by darkness leading to great fear and while the sun was setting down making all areas filled with further darkness. large amount of blood flowed out. 89.36

Cruel flesh eating birds gave rise to awful sounds by their roaring and at that time wind did not blow and fire did not blaze. 89.37

Great sages proclaimed, "Let there be safety to the worlds", and the frightened Gandharwas and Charanas arrived there." 89.38

Then Lakshmana using four arrows struck the four black horses which were decorated by gold of the lion among Rakshasas. 89.39

Thereupon, with deftness of his hand, that famous Lakshmana, fully stretching and releasing another sharp thunderbolt-like arrow, named Bhalla, which was yellowish in colour, with charming plumes, having a good splendour similar to Indra's thunderbolt and echoing a clapping sound, severed the head of Indrajit' s charioteer from his trunk, even as he was circling around. 89.40-89.42

When the charioteer was killed the greatly lustrous Indrajit drove the chariot himself and also took hold of the bow. 89.43

Those who saw him fighting in the battle appreciated his talent, But when he was driving the horses Lakshmana with arrows hit him with sharp arrows and when he was fighting his bow, Lakshmana hit the horses with his arrow. 89.44

The son of Sumithra, who did his actions fast, tormented Indrajit who was moving about in the battle field without fear using very many arrows suitable for the occasion. 89.45

That son of Ravana seeing that his charioteer was killed became dejected and lost his enthusiasm for fighting. 89.46

The monkey chiefs seeing the dejected face of the Rakshasa became extremely happy and appreciated Lakshmana. 89.47

Then, four monkey-leaders named Pramathi, Rabhasa, Sharabha and Gandhamadana, getting impatient, acted hastily. 89.48

Those monkeys having great strength and very great valour speedily jumped and descended on those excellent horses. 89.49

Blood started flowing from the mouths of those horses which were being pressed by those monkeys who were looking like mountains. 89.50

Those horses that were crushed had their limbs broken and after moving to and fro, fell down dead on the ground. After killing his horses, those monkeys also crushed that great chariot of Indrajit and jumping up again with speed, they stood by the side of Lakshmana. 89.51-89.52

Indrajit whose charioteer was killed and whose horses were destroyed, jumped down from the chariot and fought with Lakshmana using a rain of arrows. 89.53

Then that Lakshmana stopped those arrows of Indrajit with several arrows and that as his excellent horses were killed Indrajit began to release more exquisite arrows in that battle. 89.54

This is the end of Eighty Ninth Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

90. Lakshmana Kills Indrajit

[A great war takes place between Indrajit and Lakshmana, Indrajit went inside the city and got another chariot. That chariot was destroyed by Lakshmana and Vibheeshana. After a great fight Lakshmana kills Indrajit. The Devas praise him.]

That greatly lustrous Rakshasa Indrajit standing the ground as his horses were killed became very angry and burnt with luster 90.1

Those two warriors who were holding the bow with the intention of killing each other with their arrows were like elephants going in side the forest with intention of conquering one another. 90.2

Those Rakshasas and monkeys rushing from all direction for destroying each other did not desert their masters in the battle. 90.3

When the Indrajit praised all Rakshasas they all were happy and he himself felt happy and spoke the following words. 90.4

"Darkness has spread in to all directions and due to it, oh greatest among Rakshasas we are not able to determine weather one belongs to our side or the other side." 90.5

"You please courageously fight with the monkeys and make them lose their consciousness and I on my part would come back to the battle after ascending another chariot." 90.6

"You act in such a way that the evil minded monkeys do not fight and prevent me from getting another chariot." 90.7

After telling them like this, Indrajit, the destroyer of his enemies entered in to the city of Lanka so that he can get another chariot. 90.8

Arranging for ornaments for the chariot, which was beautiful, decked with gold, furnished with darts, swords and arrows, yoked with excellent horses, directed by a charioteer who could understand those horses properly and could give credible instructions to them, that Indrajit, a conqueror in battle, who was endowed with extraordinary energy, then ascended it. 90.9-90.10

Then that valorous Indrajit surrounded by the chiefs of Rakshasa army and egged by fate marched out of the city. 90.11

After coming out of the city, Indrajit the destroyer of enemies drawn by swift horses started attacking Lakshmana and Vibheeshana. 90.12

Then seeing Indrajit seated on the chariot, the strong monkeys, Vibheeshana, the Rakshasa, as well as Lakshmana were greatly surprised with the ease of the intelligent Indrajit. 90.13

The angry son of Ravana struck down hundreds and thousands monkey chiefs by large number of arrows in the battle field. 90.14

Stretching his bow to almost a circle that son of Ravana, who is winner in battle with supreme agility, started killing the monkeys. 90.15

Those monkeys, who were being killed by the arrows of that greatly valorous one, went and sought the protection of the son of Sumithra, just like people seek the refuge of Lord Brahma. 90.16

Then that son of Raghu clan shining with anger in that battle showing great agility tore off his bow. 90.17

Then Indrajit took another bow and by the time he got it ready, Lakshmana tore off that bow too. 90.18

After he tore of his bow that son of Sumithra struck the son of Ravana on his chest with five arrows which were like the poison of a serpent. 90.19

Those arrows which were released from a great bow after piercing the body, fell on the earth like huge red serpents. 90.20

When his bow was torn, vomiting blood from his mouth, that son of Ravana took hold of another great bow which was stronger than the earlier bow and attached the bow string. 90.21

With great agility he caused a rain of arrows aimed at Lakshmana just like the rains caused by Lord Indra. 90.22

Lakshmana the destroyer of enemies without any nervousness destroyed the difficult to resist rain of arrows released by Indrajit. 90.23

Then that son of Raghu clan who had great luster without getting jittery exhibited his great valor to the son of Ravana, which was indeed wonderful. 90.24

Then the extremely angry Lakshmana pierced the bodies of all Rakshasas in the battle field showing his speed in sending the arrows with three arrows each and also struck Indrajit with several arrows. 90.25-90.26

He who was struck by the enemy who was very strong as well destroyer of enemies without showing any weakness released several arrows without any problem at Lakshmana. 90.27

The destroyer of enemy army, Lakshmana tore off those arrows even before they arrived with sharp arrows and that great among the Raghu clan cut off the head of the charioteer of Indrajit by an arrow called Bhalla which was curved at nodes. 90.28

Those horses, without the charioteer, without getting perturbed, ran in a circular fashion and that was indeed wonderful. 90.29

Getting in to the hold of great rage in that battle, that son of Sumithra who was stable in his valour pierced those horses with arrows so as to frighten them. 90.30

Getting angry at that, that son of Ravana made Lakshmana angry by sending ten arrows aimed at him. 90.31

Those arrows which were similar to Vajrayudha and were like poisonous snakes got destroyed after reaching the golden armour of Lakshmana. 90.32

Understanding that the armour of Lakshmana is impenetrable that very angry son of Ravana showing great speed pierced the forehead of Lakshmana with three arrows having plumes. 90.33-90.34

That auspicious son of the Raghu clan who was fond of fighting, with those three arrows on his forehead, shined like a mountain with three peaks. 90.35

Tormented by that Rakshasa Indrajit, Lakshmana then speedily drawing and bending the bow pierced the face of Indrajit having pretty golden ear rings, with five sharp arrows. 90.36

Those Valorous Lakshmana and Indrajit who were both having very strong bows struck each other with sharp pointed arrows. 90.37

Lakshmana and Indrajit, both of whose bodies were drenched in blood at that time shined like Kimsuka trees in full bloom. 90.38

Those two great archers with their mind made up for victory neared each other and pierced the limbs of other using dreadful arrows. 90.39

That son of Ravana filled with great anger caused by the battle, wounded the face of Vibheeshana with three arrows. 90.40

After injuring the king of Rakshasas Vibheeshana using three arrows, he injured all the monkey chiefs with one arrow each. 90.41

The very lustrous Vibheeshana who was strongly enraged, using his mace killed his horses of that bad soul who was the son of Ravana. 90.42

When his horses were killed, the greatly lustrous Indrajit whose charioteer was killed earlier jumped from the chariot and used his javelin aimed at his paternal uncle. 90.43

Seeing that Javelin rushing javelin, the one who increases the joy of Sumithra, tore it in to pieces with sharp arrows and made it fall on the earth. 90.44

That very strong bodied Vibheeshana who became angry using five arrows whose touch was equal to thunder bolt shot at the chest of Indrajit whose horses were already slain. 90.45

Those arrows provided with golden feathers after hitting their target, went and split his body and being stained by blood appeared like red serpents. 90.46

Getting very angry with the brother of his father Indrajit standing in the middle of Rakshasas took in to his hand an arrow which was presented to him by Yama the God of death. 90.47

The greatly lustrous and very valorous Lakshmana seeing Indrajit taking a great arrow also took another great arrow. 90.48

That arrow, which is extremely difficult to be conquered and more difficult to tolerate even by Devas and Asuras including Indra had been presented to him in a dream by Khubera, who is greatly glorious. 90.49

He stretched the bow with great force by his iron rod like hands and both their bows gave rise to a piercing sound like pair of night cranes. 90.50

Those great arrows fitted and pulled out from their excellent bows by those great heroes shined with very great splendour. 90.51

Those plumed arrows after they were released from their bow made the skies shine and powerfully hit with each other face to face. 90.52

The collision of those horrifying arrows with each other produced a fierce fire which consisted of smoke and sparkles. 90.53

Those two arrows when they hit each other like the dashing of two great planets, burst in to hundreds of pieces and fell on the ground. 90.54

On seeing that both their arrows were destroyed in the battle front, those two heroes Lakshmana and Indrajit felt ashamed and got greatly provoked. 90.55

Getting excited, Lakshmana took hold of a missile presided over by Varuna and skilled in warfare, the great Indrajit too discharged a missile presided over by Rudra in the battle. 90.56

The Rudra arrow struck by the very wonderful Varuna arrow and then the greatly lustrous Indrajit who was greatly angered and who was a conqueror in any battle, looking like the destroyer of the world send the fire arrow which was shining with flames. 90.57-90.58

The valorous Lakshmana obstructed it by an arrow of the Sun and seeing that his arrow has become a waste, Indrajit getting very angry took hold of a very sharp arrow used by Rakshasas to completely tear the enemy. 90.59

From that bow a shining weapon which was similar to hammer, darts, fire arms, maces, swords and axes rushed out. 90.60

Seeing that horrifying arrow which was very harsh, which cannot be stopped by any being, which can tear off all the weapons in a battle, Lakshmana stooped it using the arrow of Maheswara. 90.61-90.62

There a wonderful war took place which made hair to stand erect and all the beings of the sky surrounded Lakshmana. 90.63

Surrounded by many beings who were surprised, a terrible battle took place between Rakshasa and monkeys creating a huge sound and making the sky shine. 90.64

The sages, the manes, devas, Gandharwas, eagles and serpents under the leadership of Indra protected Lakshmana in that battle. 90.65

Then the younger brother of Rama fitted another excellent arrow which had the touch of fire and which was capable of tearing off Indrajit. 90.66

The heroic Lakshmana fitted the arrow, having beautiful plumes, which consisted of rounded parts, well-jointed, skilfully fashioned, decked with gold, capable of destroying the body of the enemies, not difficult to keep off but difficult even to tolerate, a source of terror to the Rakshasa as deadly as the venom of poisonous snakes and duly honoured by the host of gods. 90.67-90.68

Using that arrow the lustrous and valorous Lord Indra, who ties green horses to his chariot was able to conquer the Rakshasas in the war between Devas and Asuras. 90.69

That glorious son of Sumithra used that that very arrow of Indra which has never been defeated in war to his excellent bow and chanted the following words which was intended to achieve his purpose. 90.70

"Oh arrow, if Rama, the son of Dasaratha is the soul of Dharma who holds on to his promise and who is second to none in valour then destroy this Indrajit." 90.71

After saying this, drawing the arrow which went straight, up to his ear, that valorous Lakshmana released it towards Indrajit. 90.72

Charging that arrow of Indra, Lakshmana who destroys enemy armies severed the glorious head of Indrajit which was adorned with shining ear globes and head protector from his trunk and made it fall on the surface of the earth. 90.73-90.74

That large head of Indrajit which was separated from his trunk was moistened by his own blood was seen on the earth like shining gold. 90.75

Having been slain, that Indrajit fell forward on the ground along with his armour, head protector and bow which were all shattered. 90.76

When Indrajit was killed all the monkeys along with Vibheeshana roared in joy and Devas also roared like they did when Indra killed Vruthra. 90.77

The heralding of victory also rose from the mouth of devas, Maharishis, Gandharwas and Apsaras in the sky. 90.78

Seeing that he has fallen that great army of Rakshasas being attacked by the monkeys shining by the victory dashed to all directions. 90.79

When the monkeys attacked them those Rakshasas abandoned all their weapons and stupefied started running towards the city of Lanka. 90.80

All those frightened Rakshasas after abandoning their weapons sharp-edged spears, swords and axes ran away in hundreds to various directions. 90.81

While some of them tormented by monkeys were scared entered Lanka, others fell in the ocean and others climbed on the mountain seeking safety. 90.82

After seeing Indrajit being slain and his body lying in the battle field out of the thousands of Rakshasas not even one could be seen there. 90.83

Similar to the sun's rays not being visible after the sun set, after Indrajit had fallen, the Rakshasas went in different directions. 90.84

That long armed one thrown asunder as dead was similar to the Sun who has cooled down and Fire which has been put out. 90.85

When the son of the king of Rakshasas died, the world became one whose enemy has been destroyed and one whose major problems had been removed and started rejoicing. 90.86

When that Rakshasa of sinful deeds was killed, the God along with Indra the king of devas, devas and all the great sages greatly rejoiced. 90.87

From the sky the sound of the drums played by Devas were heard, Apsara maidens started dancing and the great Gandharwas started singing. 90.88

When that Rakshasa of cruel deed was killed, there was a rain of flowers from the sky along with deluge of praises and it was indeed wonderful. 90.89

When he who was the terror of the entire world was killed, the waters of the sky became very clear and devas and Asuras rejoiced and came there. 90.90

The devas, Dhanavas and Gandharwas together said, "Now the Brahmanas would be moving about peacefully as their troubles are over." 90.91

Seeing the greatest among the Rakshasas who had matchless strength in battle has been killed the very happy monkey chiefs applauded Lakshmana. 90.92

Vibheeshana, Hanuman, Jambavan who was the chief of bears were greatly pleased by Lakshmana's victory and applauded him. 90.93

The monkeys who had achieved their aim started roaring, jumping with joy and shouting like thunder and stood all round Lakshmana. 90.94

The monkeys were seen wagging their tails and also lashing them and also shouted "Let Lakshmana be victorious." 90.95

Hugging each other with extremely joyful minds, the monkeys indulged in conversation about Lakshmana and his very many good qualities. 90.96

Hearing that Indrajit has been killed by the heroic and difficult act of Lakshmana, Devas who were their dear friends were pleased and experienced great joy. 90.97

This is the end of Ninetieth Sarga of Yuddha Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.