Lanka Kaanda
184 - Ravana's swoon; destruction of his sacrificial performance; combat between Sri Rama and Ravana
Chaupais
Description
Evil omens of a most fearful nature occurred to him even as he went. Vultures flew and perched on his heads. Being in the jaws of death, he paid no heed to anyone and exclaimed : "Beat the drums of war." The demon host appeared endless as it marched on with its myriads of elephants, chariots, foot-soldiers and horsemen. The wicked demons rushed to face the Lord like a swarm of moths darting towards fire. At this end the gods prayed to the Lord : "This fellow (Ravana) has inflicted terrible suffering on us. Play with him no more, Rama; Videha's Daughter (Sita) is feeling most disconsolate." The Lord smiled to hear the gods' prayer; the Hero of Raghu's line rose and put His arrows in order. The matted locks on His head had been tightly coiled and were interlaced with flowers. With His ruddy eyes and body dark as a rain-cloud He ravished the eyes of the whole world. He fastened His quiver loins and took in His hand formidable Sarnga bow. (1-5)