Lakshman Rao
After the setting of the sun, Ravana’s forces sought rest upon the sacred slopes of Mount kailasha, within the domain of kubera. The silvery sheen of the cool night and the soothing atmosphere brought comfort to the demon army, lulling them in to deep slumber. Ravana seated in a cozy corner of the mountain, gazed upon the serene and pleasant sight of the moon. An unfamiliar joy filled his heart and he surveyed the land around him, searching for places of interest. The thick forests surrounding him were a feast for the eyes, their lush greenery adorned with seasonal fruits. The mingled fragrances of ripe fruits filled the air, offering a delightful sensation to the senses.
The densely grown plants and bushes, heavy clusters of flowers, dropping their pollen gently to the ground, creating multi-coloured carpet. The flowers laden with honey, dripped their sweet essence, and the fragrance of the mingling pollen and honey. Carried by the breeze, stirred a feeling of estacy. The many grooves of trees, including species such as priyala.. champaka..punnaga…Mandara…Chuta..Patala.. Lodhra…Priyangu… Arjuna…ketaki…Tagara.and Narikela.cast their leaves, flowers and pods in to the gently flowing waters of the Mandakini River. This enchanting atmosphere filled Ravana with inexplicable joy, a sensation so foreign to this warrior that it seemed like eternal bliss. Yet before long, his mind began shift toward darker, more sensual thoughts, awakening his aggressive and animalistic instincts.
At this moment a beautiful woman, richly adorned and fragrant ,passed through the sleeping ranks of Ravana’s forces. In an instant, Ravana seized her and began to speak to her in a manner laced with desire lovely lady, your beauty is unparalleled. Your waist line speaks of noble lineage and excellent health. Nature has crafted your form with perfect harmony. Who is the fortunate one who possess you? Whose luck has him your man? I am Ravana, king of the three worlds. None can defeat me, and no king in any realm dares challenge me, come, be mine, and I promise you will find happiness in my strength and care.
The woman, with folded hands, replied respectfully great king, you are revered and honourable. But I am your daughter -in-law. I speak the truth. If I face any trouble, it is your duty to protect me yet here you stand, poised to dishonour me”.
Ravana retorted, O, beauty, my son has not tied the nuptial knot with you. How can you claim to be my daughter -in -law? Do not lie to me”.
She replied great king, my words are true. I am Rambha, the beloved of Nalakubera, your brother Kubera’s son. I am his ‘queen if heart””.
Ravana, unmoved by her plea, said, “No more arguments, fascinating woman, “He then lifted her and, in a secluded spot, violated her dignity.
Afterward, the shameless demon returned to the mountain and fell asleep, forgetting everything. Rambha, bearing the heavy burden of this grievous insult, gathered her courage and, in a state of weakness and desperation, made her way to Nalakubara. Collapsing at his feet, her eyes filled with tears, her hair dishevelled, and clothes torn, she told him all that had transpired. She recounted how Ravana has accosted her while she was on her way to Nalakubara’s palace, ignoring her pleas and violating her despite her protestations of being his daughter -in -law.
With sorrow in her heart, she said “Forgive me, great soul. I have failed you.
Nalakubara, gently lifting her, responded. “This is not your fault. You are innocent. Cleanse yourself in the presence of the goddess Lakshmi, and with pure heart and mind, let go of this terrible experience.
She took solace in his words, found strength, and followed his advice. After a time of contemplation, Nalakubara took sacred water in his hand and pronounce a curse upon
Ravana. “Should you ever again lay hands upon a woman who resists, your body will be shattered into pieces. This curse shall stand for all eternity “he declared.
Rama, speaking to sage Agastya remarked sage, Rambha’s sacrifice has turned a new page in the lives of women everywhere. She has safeguarded the honour of Parents, brothers, sisters, sins, daughters and husbands. Every family is indebted to her. Sage Agastya responded Rama, a soul as great as yours understands the depth of her sacrifice, and this has become a shield for all women. Nalakubara’s righteous act has taught Ravana a lesson unmatched in the universe owing of this curse many celestial beings, fairies, and sages blessed Rambha and offered her the gift of forgetfulness so that this painful incident would be erased from her memory, allowing her to live a life of chosen excellence. They praised Nalak bara for the great service he has rendered to the universe. Afterwards, Ravana reached the helm of Indra and sent a warning. Surrender or prepare for war by next day morning. Meanwhile, in Ravana’s absence, his brother Vibhishana ruled over Lanka. He was endowed with all royal powers, and in accordance with Dharma, his action could be questioned, even by Ravana upon his return. With this authority Vibhishana ordered the release of all the women captured and detained by Ravana, ensuring they were returned to their homes with dignity they deserved.
Sage Pulastya and Brahma expressed happiness over the Nalakubara’s curse to Ravana and advised sage Galava to pass on the information to Ravana for future caution.
Sage Agastya concluded by telling Rama, “Wherever great souls exist, they perform only noble deed like Vibhishana”. Thus, the day ended in peace.
