Lanka Kaanda
181 - Destruction of Meghanada's sacrificial performance; his engagement on the battle-field and deliverance at the hands of Laksmana
Chaupais
Description
Ravana taught them sound wisdom; though vile himself, his counsel was so pious and wholesome! Indeed there are hosts of people clever in instructing others; but those who practise good morals themselves are few and far between. When the night was over and the day broke, the bears and monkeys invested all the four gates. The ten-headed monster summoned his champions and said, "He whose heart quails before the enemy in battle had better withdraw even now; for if he turns his back on the field of battle, he will have to suffer for it. Relying on the strength of my own arm have I prosecuted the war and shall give befitting reply to the enemy who has invaded us." So saying, he got ready his chariot, swift as the wind, and all the musical instruments of war sounded. The heroes, who were all matchless in strength, rushed forth like a storm of soot. Numberless ill-omens occurred at that time; but, extremely proud of his might of arm, he heeded them not.