Baal Kaanda
33 - The story of king Pratapabhanu
Chaupais
Description
Said the anchorite, "So be it, O king. But there is one difficulty; hear it too. Even Death shall bow his head at your feet (much more those who are subject to death). The only exception shall be the Brahmanas, O ruler of the earth. The Brahmanas are ever powerful by virtue of their penance; no one can deliver from their wrath. If you can reduce the Brahmanas to your will, O king, even Brahma, Visnu and the great Lord Siva shall be at your command. Might is of no avail against the Brahmanas; with both arms raised to heaven I tell you this truth. Listen, O sovereign; if you escape the Brahmana's curse, you shall never perish." Hearing his words, the king rejoiced and said, "My lord, I shall no longer die. By your grace, O benevolent master, I shall be blessed at all times.