Lanka Kaanda
176 - Struck by Bharata's arrow, Hanuman drops down unconscious; dialogue between Bharata and Hanuman
Chaupais
Description
"Tell me, dear friend, if all is well with Sri Rama, the Fountain of Joy, as well as with His younger brother (Laksmana) and my mother Janaki (Janaka's Daughter)." The monkey chief told him in brief all that had happened and Bharata felt much distressed to hear it and his heart was filled with remorse. "Ah me, good heavens, why should I have been born into this world at all, if I could not be of any service to the Lord?" But realizing the adverse circumstances, the gallant and mighty prince recollected himself and addressed Hanuman again, "You will be delayed in your journey and nothing will avail after daybreak. Therefore, ascend my arrow, mountain and all, and I will send you straight into the presence of the All-merciful." Hanuman's pride was tickled when he heard these words. "How will the arrow fly with my weight?" he thought. Then, recalling Sri Rama's glory, he bowed at Bharata's feet and spoke with joined palms:-