Baal Kaanda
33 - The story of king Pratapabhanu
Chaupais
Description
The prime minister, Dharmaruci by name, was a second Sukra* and was as devoted to the king as he was wise. With a prudent counseller and a gallant and powerful brother, the king himself was an embodiment of glory and daring in war. He owned a vast army consisting of horse and foot, chariots and elephants. It had numberless excellent warriors all of whom fought fearlessly in battle. The king rejoiced to see his army and there was a tumultuous sound of kettledrums. He collected a special force for the conquest of the world, and availing himself of an auspicious day marched forth with beat of drums. A number of battles were fought here and there and all hostile kings were brought to their knees by superior might. By the strength of his arm be reduced all the seven sections of the terrestrial region and let the princes go on payment of tribute. Now Pratapabhanu was the undisputed sovereign of the entire globe.