Baal Kaanda
12 - The excellences of Sri Rama and the greatness of His story
Chaupais
Description
Putting away all doubts in this way and placing on my head the dust from the lotus feet of my preceptor, I supplicate all with joined palms once more, so that no blame may attach to the telling of the story. Reverently bowing my head to Lord Siva, I now proceed to recount the fair virtues of Sri Rama. placing my head on the feet of Sri Hari I commence this story in the Samvat year 1631 (1574 A. D.). On Tuesday, the ninth of the lunar month of Caitra, this story shed its lustre at Ayodhya. On this day of Sri Rama's birth the presiding spirits of all holy places flock there-so declare the Vedas-and demons, Nagas, birds, human beings, sages and gods come and pay their homage to the Lord of Raghus. Wise men celebrate the great birthday festival and sing the sweet glory of Sri Rama. (1-4)