Lanka Kaanda
167 - An arrow from Sri Rama's bow strikes down Ravana's diadems and umbrella
Chaupais
Description
"Vibhisana, see how clouds are gathering fast and the lightning flashes in the southern quarter. A lowering cloud is gently rumbling and I fear lest a severe hail-storm may ensue." Vibhisana replied, "Listen, my gracious lord: there is neither lightning nor a gathered mass of cloud. On the top of Lanka there stands a hall where Ravana is witnessing a music and dancing contest. It is the large royal umbrella spread over his head which presents the appearance of a thick dark mass of cloud; the ornaments in Queen Mandodari's ears, my lord, flash like lightning; while the incomparable music of cymbals and tabors is the sweet rumbling that You hear, O King of celestials." The Lord smiled to perceive Ravana's arrogance; He strung His bow and fitted an arrow to the string.