Ayodhya Kaanda
62 - Sarasvati perverts the mind of Manthara (a handmaid of queen Kaikeyi); a dialogue between Kaikeyi and Manthara
Chaupais
Description
Manthara saw the city decorated and festal music melodiously playing; she, therefore, asked the people, "What is all this rejoicing about?" When she heard of Sri Rama's coming installation, she felt distressed in her heart. That evil-minded and low- born woman pondered how mischief might be created overnight, even as a wily Bhila woman who has seen a honeycomb hanging from a tree schemes how to get hold of the honey. Pulling a long face she approached Bharata's mother. "What makes you look so grave?" the queen smilingly asked. She made no answer, but only heaved a deep sigh, and adopting the way of women shed crocodile tears. Said the queen laughing, "You are a most saucy girl; what I suspect, therefore, is that Laksmana has taught you a lesson." Even then the most wicked servant-maid would not speak and merely hissed like a cobra. (1-4)