[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Indian literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in) › [Jain Literature](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina) › [Post-canonical works (philosophy, yoga, karma theory, narrative, poetry, history)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post) › [Narrative literature (kathās, kathākośas, caritas)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha) › [Surasuṃdarīcariya](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya) › [English (machine translation)](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt) › 6 # The Story of Surasundarī 6 English (machine translation) 6 - **Language:** English ### [6.1](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.1) Meanwhile, the sun, having wandered across the entire sphere of the sky, / reached the western ocean, as if fatigued from the road to bathe. ### [6.2](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.2) And it was said by Cittagaï: "Unrecognised, let us enter right here / into the shrine of Madana, now, for the purpose of the matter at hand." ### [6.3](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.3) And then it was said by me, "Let it be so." Both of us arose, / having gathered several flowers there in the garden. ### [6.4](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.4) Entering into the temple of Madana and worshipping Madana, this was spoken: / "O Blessed One! By your favor, may our desired object be accomplished!" ### [6.5](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.5) Having spoken thus, both of them then hid behind Anaṅga. / When only a watch of the night had passed, or a little more, ### [6.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.6) Surrounded by many attendants, being sung to with hundreds of excellent auspicious songs, / and with various kinds of musical instruments sounding in diverse ways, ### [6.7](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.7) Accompanied by her female companions, mounted on an excellent palanquin, / having auspicious rites performed, her body adorned with white ornaments, ### [6.8](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.8) Her limbs covered with white garments, having tied a wreath of fragrant flowers, / Kanakamālā then arrived at the door of the shrine of Kāma. ### [6.9](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.9) She stepped down from the palanquin, taking the articles of worship, / and then kept all her retinue at the doorway. ### [6.10](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.10) Alone she entered to worship the image of Makaradhvaja. / Having entered, the door of the shrine was bolted by that maiden. ### [6.11](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.11) Having worshipped Kāma, she then fell down at his feet; / having sighed deeply, having eyes with flowing thick tears, ### [6.12](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.12) With a low voice, reproachfully, haltingly, she said: / "O Blessed One, though gods and men are conquered by you, why do you strike women? ### [6.13](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.13) If, O Blessed One, intense passion for that person was produced in me, / then why, abandoning him, do you unite me with another person? ### [6.14](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.14) Moreover, only five arrows of yours are renowned here in the world; / but in relation to me, you have become as if having a thousand arrows. ### [6.15](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.15) If you strike me, strike—who stops you, O Blessed One? / Only strike me in such a way that I go to the house of Yama! ### [6.16](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.16) By you, however, I was struck in such a way that I am neither dead nor living; / so what shall I say now, having come to you for refuge? ### [6.17](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.17) Just as for one burned by fire, that very \[fire\] is the remedy for mankind, / so, my body afflicted by you, I have taken refuge in you. ### [6.18](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.18) If you are pleased with me, grant a boon requested by me: / may such mockery not happen to me even in another birth! ### [6.19](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.19) This birth of mine has passed in vain in hopes of my beloved person; / grant that very lover to me, O Blessed One, even in another birth!" ### [6.20](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.20) O Supratiṣṭha, having spoken thus, then by Kanakamālā, / whose breasts were moistened by a flowing stream of thick tears, ### [6.21](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.21) On the delightful arch fashioned of diverse gems, with spreading clear rays, / placed at the door of the inner sanctuary, ### [6.22](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.22) A noose was tied with her upper garment. Then she spoke again: / "Here I die now, O Kusumāyudha, before you! ### [6.23](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.23) Let no one say of Kanakamālā, 'She did an improper act,' / by whom this much time was dragged out in hope. ### [6.24](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.24) Now, however, it is truly not possible to break my own vow; / leaving aside that beloved of my heart, no other shall touch my hand. ### [6.25](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.25) Moreover, O deities! You never speak a lie; / yet that became otherwise through the demerits of me, a wretched woman. ### [6.26](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.26) Or else, through some deceit, I was deceived then by one in the form of a piśāca, / or by some Khecara, a devotee of Nabhasvāhana. ### [6.27](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.27) Therefore, now, let there be no obstacle to my desired goal; / O Blessed One! By your favor, may death succeed without hindrance! ### [6.28](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.28) For me, wretched, whose mind is shattered by the heavy mallet of separation from my beloved, / does my heart even today doubt whether death will occur or not? ### [6.29](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.29) The quelling of the pain of separation from a beloved—even death—is attained by great merits; / if that should happen now, then I would have accomplished my goal." ### [6.30](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.30) Having spoken thus, she threw herself face downward at once; / having gone swiftly, her noose was then cut by me. ### [6.31](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.31) Taking her in my lap, she was then addressed softly by me: / "O lovely-limbed one! The lord of Rati, by whom the lords of gods and asuras are conquered, is pleased with you. ### [6.32](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.32) O lovely-limbed one! By Makaradhvaja, won over by your unequalled daring, / that very person has been brought near to you in this very birth. ### [6.33](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.33) Let an embrace of the neck be made firmly; your person is longing for you." / Having been addressed thus, the maiden became downcast through shame. ### [6.34](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.34) And then Cittagaï also arrived at that very place; / then it was said by me, "O lovely-limbed one, this is my excellent friend! ### [6.35](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.35) In separation from you, O fair one, when I was intent on self-destruction, / I was restrained by this steadfast one, endowed with causeless affection. ### [6.36](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.36) This means of obtaining you was told to me by this very one; / with this one as our helper, our desired object will be accomplished. ### [6.37](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.37) Therefore, abandoning fear, natural and easily felt by maidens, O lovely-limbed one, / quickly hand over all your own dress to him, ### [6.38](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.38) So that this steadfast one, intent on another’s affair, having assumed your form, / may go outside, O lovely-limbed one, to deceive your retinue." ### [6.39](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.39) And having been addressed thus by me, with a joyful heart she did all that; / then both of them hid once again behind Madana. ### [6.40](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.40) And Cittagaï, having put on all her dress, / opened the door and quickly mounted the palanquin. ### [6.41](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.41) Then, when those people were gone and knowing that building to be noiseless, / she was addressed by me: "Fair one, what is to be done now?" ### [6.42](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.42) With downcast face, her limbs trembling with agitation, she somehow managed to speak in a stammering, indistinct voice: ### [6.43](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.43) "Tormented by intense separation, dearest one, I have reached you by destiny's power. Do yourself whatever is fitting; I have come to you for refuge." ### [6.44](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.44) When she had spoken thus, in accordance with the Gāndharva rite I married that maiden, making the god of love my witness. ### [6.45](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.45) Then, having gradually dispelled her agitation with diverse words, after making love for a moment, I fell asleep embracing her. ### [6.46](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.46) And when slumber departed, I said: "O fair-bodied one, let us go now. Having done such a thing, it is not proper to remain here." ### [6.47](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.47) Then, having sighed deeply, she, beloved to my heart, said: "Alas, noble lord! It would have been proper for death to have come to me in due course. ### [6.48](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.48) For my sake, lord, you will now incur great disaster; for Nahavāhana is fierce and arrogant with the power of his magic spells. ### [6.49](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.49) Even as we flee, O lord, no refuge whatever exists for us; thus in truth I have become the embodiment of an enemy to you. ### [6.50](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.50) Tormented by separation from you, my lord, I did not feel such pain as has arisen now, O master, at the thought of misfortune befalling you! ### [6.51](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.51) Though found somehow, O lord, because of my misfortune you will not be mine now; or rather, for those devoid of merit, even what is attained suddenly slips away." ### [6.52](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.52) O Supratiṣṭha, having spoken thus and clinging to my neck, overwhelmed with intense sorrow, the maiden then wept. ### [6.53](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.53) Then I said: "Fair one, why do you bear grief unbefitting you? What was to be attained has been attained; now come what may! ### [6.54](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.54) If death were to come to those deprived of union with you, then that would be sorrow; but now, fair one, even in death there is no sorrow for us. ### [6.55](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.55) Moreover, just as this union with you has taken place, unthought of though it was, may other good fortune also happen in that very manner, may it never \[be otherwise\]! ### [6.56](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.56) Let an effort be made; if it proves fruitless, let it be—what harm is there? For those fallen from a couch, the ground remains just as it was. ### [6.57](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.57) Seeing that Vidyādhara Nahavāhana, O fair one, I did this; whatever is fitting for me, let it be seen through destiny. ### [6.58](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.58) Death has indeed been accepted; even so, let us flee from that Vidyādhara. For those resolved to chew water, may even a bit of molasses not come by some means? ### [6.59](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.59) Therefore, O fair-bodied one, cast off grief; let us go meanwhile to Ratnasañcaya, and later we shall act according to the occasion, as circumstance dictates." ### [6.60](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.60) Then, having bowed to the lord of pleasure, I set out together with her; then, clinging to her neck, I flew up into the aerial path. ### [6.61](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.61) As if to behold such conduct of men deluded by the darkness of passion, the sun then suddenly arose, putting the darkness to flight from afar. ### [6.62](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.62) Then she said: "Lord, I am intensely thirsty; my throat is parched. How far is our city even now?" ### [6.63](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.63) "The city is still far away, fair one; let us descend into this forest bower, for there will be water here"—when this was spoken by me, ### [6.64](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.64) then both of us descended into a delightful forest; and there a cascade full of cool water was seen. ### [6.65](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.65) Having drunk water, she sat down in the shade of a leafy tree; and I too, having attended to the needs of the body, came to that very spot. ### [6.66](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.66) O Supratiṣṭha, while I was resting there thus for a moment, just then a voice was heard in a pleasure pavilion nearby: ### [6.67](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.67) "Fair one, your body has regained health; let us now go to our own place." Hearing this voice, this doubt arose in me: ### [6.68](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.68) "Surely this is the voice of Citragati, and can belong to no other; or else, what possibility is there of his being in this forest bower?" ### [6.69](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.69) While I was pondering thus, from that bower, a house of plantain trees, Citragati suddenly emerged, accompanied by a young woman. ### [6.70](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.70) Then, going forward, I embraced him with affection and joy, and he did me as well; then both of us sat down right there. ### [6.71](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.71) Then I asked him: "Having come out from the house of love, what did you do, friend? How was the retinue beguiled? ### [6.72](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.72) How did you escape, and who is this woman of charming appearance? Where was she found? Relate all this to me!" ### [6.73](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.73) Citragati then said: "Listen with single mind, O Citravega! Having assumed the form of Kanakamālā, I then set forth. ### [6.74](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.74) Mounted on a palanquin, I arrived in due course near the bridegroom, amidst an abundance of diverse noble auspicious songs sung by hosts of Vidyādharas. ### [6.75](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.75) When the auspicious moment arrived, my hand was joyfully taken by Nahavāhana, and then the wedding proceeded in due order. ### [6.76](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.76) Before Nahavāhana, a dance radiant with diverse gesticulations was begun by courtesans, accompanied by excellent singing. ### [6.77](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.77) In the meantime, a young woman approached and, trembling with agitation, showed her palm bearing a jewelled signet-ring to me. ### [6.78](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.78) Seeing that, I thought: 'This is my ring, which was taken by that maiden who was freed from danger from the elephant. ### [6.79](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.79) Pushing back my very heavy veil a little, I then looked upon her, and she was suddenly recognized: ### [6.80](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.80) 'This is that beloved of mine who was then freed from danger from the elephant; how has she, through the dispensation of fate, become a bridesmaid?' ### [6.81](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.81) \[I thought:\] 'Behold, how has the sight of me occurred so suddenly, difficult as it was? Or rather, when fate is favorable, what is it that it does not accomplish?' ### [6.82](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.82) Having reflected thus, I showed my own hand to her, bearing the ring formerly given by her. ### [6.83](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.83) Being near her ear, she conveyed this to a nearby female companion: 'Due to lack of sleep, Kanakamālā's head reportedly aches. ### [6.84](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.84) Therefore, she is going to sleep for a moment in the Aśoka grove; you all remain here and stay just as you please. ### [6.85](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.85) When the spectacle resumes, however, let us be informed promptly.' Having spoken thus, O Citravega, she made me rise. ### [6.86](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.86) Then, together with her, \[I went\] to the delightful Aśoka grove, which was the crest-jewel of the excellent house-garden, ### [6.87](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.87) pleasant with the fragrance of floral nectar from blooming, sweet-scented clusters of blossoms; and I sat down on a seat offered joyfully by her, and she too \[sat\] before me. ### [6.88](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.88) Then, filled with agitation, when she was unable to utter anything, then my entire story, O Citravega, ### [6.89](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.89) which was previously told to you, was related in brief to her also, as far as \[the point that\] I came here in the form of a woman." ### [6.90](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.90) "O lovely one! In separation from you I suffered severe mental torment, / and for your sake I wandered through all the cities of the sky-goers. ### [6.91](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.91) Therefore, cast off shame and tell: what is your name, / in which family were you born, and what is your father's name? ### [6.92](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.92) How did you arrive here in the city, in the midst of many people? / And how, o fair-formed one, did you recognise me even though I had the form of a woman?" ### [6.93](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.93) When I had addressed her thus, the maiden somehow cast off her fright / and, her words stammering slightly, began to speak thus: ### [6.94](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.94) "Listen, darling of my heart! I shall tell everything that you have asked. / To begin with, the city Suranandana is well known to you. ### [6.95](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.95) There lived a renowned sky-goer king named Prabhañjana, / and he had an excellent minister, exceedingly skilled in the treatises of statecraft. ### [6.96](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.96) Deeply devoted to his lord, endowed with the fourfold intellect, / he was the king's repository of trust; formerly his name was Meghanāda. ### [6.97](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.97) He had an excellent wife, devoted to her husband, endowed with beauty and wealth, / born of a noble family, named Indumatī. ### [6.98](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.98) As Meghanāda enjoyed the pleasures of the senses with her, / a handsome son was born, named Aśanivega. ### [6.99](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.99) Trained in the multitude of arts, having mastered the magical spells, an abode of virtues, / bringing joy to his parents, he gradually attained youth. ### [6.100](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.100) Now, on the southern row \[of Vaitāḍhya\], in this very city of Kuñjarāvarta, / there was an eminent sky-goer named Candragati. ### [6.101](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.101) He had a beloved wife named Madanarekhā; / in time, a son named Amitagati was born to them. ### [6.102](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.102) After him was born a daughter, Campakamālā, fair as a campaka flower, / and she attained youth, captivating the minds of Vidyādhara youths. ### [6.103](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.103) Then that Campakamālā was chosen in the city Suranandana / for the minister's son Aśanivega, and he respectfully married her. ### [6.104](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.104) She was brought to his own city, and with that large-eyed woman, / filled with supreme affection, he enjoyed human pleasures. ### [6.105](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.105) Then one day, having bestowed the office of minister on Aśanivega, / his own son, that noble-minded man, his heart grown detached from existence, ### [6.106](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.106) along with King Prabhañjana, filled with intense spiritual urgency, / that Meghanāda went forth as an ascetic at the feet of a good guru. ### [6.107](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.107) The sky-goer Aśanivega, too, along with Campakamālā, the darling of his heart, / experienced the fruit of householder life, the happiness of sensual pleasures. ### [6.108](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.108) Then in due course five sons were born to Campakamālā. / Listen in order, my dearest, to their names: ### [6.109](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.109) Vajragati, Vāyugati, Candra, then Candana, and Susiṃha; / and after the five sons, I was born as a daughter. ### [6.110](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.110) On my birthday, my father, out of great affection, / joyfully caused a festival to be held, greater even than the feast for a son's birth. ### [6.111](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.111) When the twelfth day arrived, the name Priyaṅgumañjarī was given to me; / growing in time with the development of my body, ### [6.112](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.112) delighting my parents, cherished by a group of nurses, / bringing joy to the eyes of my attendants, I reached girlhood. ### [6.113](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.113) All the arts suitable for young women, such as dancing, / were acquired in turn; then I reached first youth. ### [6.114](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.114) Accompanied by affectionate female companions, I sported there in various amusements: / fine paintings, cloths, embroidery, dancing, celestial music, and the vīṇā. ### [6.115](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.115) And there, my dearest, I became by nature averse to men; / yet many suitors from among eminent sky-goers came there for me. ### [6.116](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.116) My father told me of their fine beauty, arts, and wealth; / but no desire arose in me anywhere, and so he turned them away. ### [6.117](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.117) Whatever suitor came, as long as I did not desire him, / so long my father Aśanivega was plunged into grief. ### [6.118](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.118) Seeing him sorrowful, Campakamālā spoke to her beloved: / 'My lord, why do you appear so grieved and deeply anxious?' ### [6.119](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.119) Then he said: 'Our daughter has now attained youth, / yet she does not desire any groom, o lovely one! This is a grave anxiety. ### [6.120](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.120) A daughter who has reached youth, living without a husband in her father's house, / might do some deed by which the family incurs disgrace. ### [6.121](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.121) Alas! Who could be a groom agreeable to our daughter's mind? / Out of this worry, o lovely one, sleep does not come to me even when lying down at night.' ### [6.122](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.122) Hearing these words, then my mother Campakamālā too / became deeply overwhelmed with grief on my account, o handsome one! ### [6.123](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.123) On another day, at dawn, a dear friend named Dhāriṇī, / the daughter of Sūryābhā, came to my side. ### [6.124](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.124) She said: 'Why today, dear friend, do you appear as if robbed, sold, or weeping, / absent-minded, with a pale face and full of grief? ### [6.125](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.125) Though I arrived long ago, dear friend, why have you not spoken to me? / So tell me the cause of this grief that has arisen in you.' ### [6.126](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.126) When addressed thus by my dear friend, I replied then: / 'You have observed well, Dhāriṇī! Listen to the account. ### [6.127](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.127) Having sported with you, dear friend, in various amusements, / I returned to my own home in the evening. ### [6.128](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.128) Then, on the upper terrace, on a couch made of various jewels, gemstones, and gold, / I fell asleep upon an excellent mattress of swan's down. ### [6.129](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.129) Then, at midnight, hearing the sound of drums, I awoke; / I looked at the path of the sky crowded with divine celestial cars. ### [6.130](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.130) Seeing the host of gods illuminating the celestial sphere there, / accompanied by crowds of heavenly nymphs, such a thought arose in me: ### [6.131](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.131) "Where, I wonder, have such divine celestial cars been seen before? / And where were such gods and goddesses seen?" ### [6.132](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.132) Reflecting thus, dear friend, I fell into a faint; / then, when the swoon passed, recollection of previous births arose in me. ### [6.133](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.133) I remembered two previous births, connected with humans and gods. / Listen, Dhāriṇī, as I tell all of it just as it was: ### [6.134](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.134) In the continent of Jambūdvīpa, on the northern side of Mount Meru, / there is the excellent realm Airāvata, renowned throughout the three worlds. ### [6.135](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.135) And in its middle region, the Aryan realm, there was an excellent city, / resembling the city of the immortals, inaccessible to hostile kings, ### [6.136](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.136) an abode of the fortune of the three worlds, served by thousands of wealthy merchants, vast, / established forever, and by name too Supratiṣṭha. ### [6.137](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.137) \[There lived a man\] who mocked the wealth of Kubera, devoted to helping all people, / devoted to worshipping the gods and gurus, and showing tender affection to his kinsmen. ### [6.138](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.138) Endowed with courtesy and compassion, the foremost among the entire community of merchants, / a wealthy man named Haridatta then lived there. ### [6.139](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.139) Surpassing Rati in beauty, virtuous, sweet-spoken, skilled, / dear to his life, full of modesty (vinayavatī), Vinayavatī was his wife. ### [6.140](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.140) While he was enjoying the five kinds of sense-pleasures together with her, / a noble and renowned son named Vasudatta was born. ### [6.141](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.141) Then, in due course, three daughters were born to Vinayavatī, / endowed with a splendour of beauty that surpassed the goddesses of the lord of the gods. ### [6.142](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.142) The eldest was Sulocanā, the second maiden was named Anaṅgavatī, / and the third was named Vasumatī, a marvel to the three worlds. ### [6.143](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.143) Growing up gradually, captivating, driving young men to frenzy, / all three then reached the threshold of fresh youth. ### [6.144](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.144) That maiden Sulocanā was married in the city of Mehalāvatī / to a merchant named Subandhu, the son of Sāgaradatta. ### [6.145](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.145) In the city of Vijayavatī, the maiden Anaṅgavatī was wed / to the son of the caravan-leader Dhanabhūti, named Dhanavāhana. ### [6.146](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.146) And that maiden Vasumatī was also married in the city of Mehalāvatī / to Dhanapati, the son of Samudradatta. ### [6.147](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.147) Then that merchant Dhanapati, skilled in the arts, an equal to Anaṅga, / enjoyed human pleasures together with Vasumatī. ### [6.148](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.148) Their love ever increasing, their hearts mutually devoted, / in their fresh youth, relishing the delightful pleasure of the senses, ### [6.149](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.149) devoted to respect for their elders, free from the sorrow of mutual separation, / their days passed, bringing joy to the circle of their kinsmen. ### [6.150](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.150) Now, once upon a time, asleep on the terrace of the noble palace, / the merchant Dhanapati was resting, joined with his beloved Vasumatī. ### [6.151](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.151) In the last watch of the night, illuminated by the spotless moonbeams, / at the end of her slumber, the innocent, noble Vasumatī awoke. ### [6.152](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.152) Seeing another man asleep in her own bed, struck with fear, / she suddenly trembled like a slender vine struck by the wind. ### [6.153](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.153) The fawn-eyed woman thought: "Where has my own lord gone? / How has this man entered into a house so difficult of entry? ### [6.154](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.154) Or could that beloved of my heart have been slain by this villain? / Or does that very beloved appear as someone else through an illusion? ### [6.155](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.155) Or else he is certainly not my beloved; of this there is no doubt. / This seems to be some strange man, imitating a divine form. ### [6.156](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.156) Since, having entered another's house, he sleeps so confidently, / surely there must be some reason for this here. ### [6.157](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.157) Whether he is another man or my beloved, even so, it is now proper for me / to inform my mother-in-law quickly of the matter just as it is. ### [6.158](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.158) If, however, I do not somehow tell this circumstance to my mother-in-law, / then a stain difficult to endure will cling to me for my whole life." ### [6.159](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.159) Thinking thus, the young woman descended from the palace / and came into the presence of her mother-in-law, Sudarśanā. ### [6.160](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.160) She gently woke her, and \[the mother-in-law\] said: "Daughter-in-law, what is the reason for your coming?" / Thereupon Vasumatī reported everything exactly as it had occurred. ### [6.161](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.161) Sudarśanā said: "There is no possibility of another person here; / this delusion of yours must have arisen under the influence of sleep." ### [6.162](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.162) Vasumatī said: "Mother, examine it yourself!" / Addressed thus by her, Sudarśanā went there swiftly. ### [6.163](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.163) That man asleep there in slumber was carefully examined; / Sudarśanā recognised that he was not her son. ### [6.164](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.164) Thereupon Sudarśanā screamed in a loud voice: / "Run, run, people! Some strange man ### [6.165](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.165) has entered into our house, surely having become a paramour or a thief!" / Hearing the commotion raised in this way by Sudarśanā, ### [6.166](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.166) "Hey! Seize him, seize him, run! Where did he go? Where is he hiding?" / shouting such things, all the attendants rose up. ### [6.167](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.167) And a crowd of people gathered, saying, "What is this? What is this?" / The merchant Samudradatta said: "Beloved, by whom have you been robbed?" ### [6.168](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.168) He too, having arisen from the bed upon hearing the uproar, / said: "Mother, by whom have you been robbed, that you cry out like this? ### [6.169](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.169) No evil-minded person is seen here; why, mother, are you distressed?" / Addressed thus by him, Sudarśanā spoke in this manner: ### [6.170](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.170) "Who are you? Whose son are you? Why have you come to my house, villain? / Ah, impudent one! Why do you address me as 'mother'? ### [6.171](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.171) Why have you slept here upon my son's bed, shameless one? / Where have you put my son named Dhanapati, wretched wretch?" ### [6.172](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.172) Hearing her harsh words, astonished in his heart, / that man then looked at his own body again and again. ### [6.173](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.173) Having looked at his own body for a long time, while his face darkened, / intending to fly up, he then suddenly looked at the sky. ### [6.174](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.174) Muttering indistinctly, "buḍa buḍa", as if calling upon a noble spell, / he leaped repeatedly on the surface of the ground like a frog. ### [6.175](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.175) In a moment he became wretched, like a young Vidyādhara whose noble spell is lost; / with his body violently trembling, he became as if bewildered and struck down. ### [6.176](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.176) Now, seeing that man in such a state, Sudarśanā said: / "O villain! Why do you not tell where you have put my son?" ### [6.177](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.177) While he, with his face turned downwards, remained silent and did not speak, / the crowd of people then began to say various things: ### [6.178](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.178) "He came into the house of the wealthy man to steal, greedy for wealth." / Others said: "If he were a thief, why would he sleep on the bed?" ### [6.179](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.179) "Then he came for the sake of Vasumatī, an adulterer." / Others said: "If he were a paramour, why does he say 'mother'? ### [6.180](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.180) So, we think that he is indeed Dhanapati, turned into another form / by some god or demon for the sake of sport, beloved!" ### [6.181](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.181) Others said: "An evil-minded ghost, or like a piśāca, has come here / in such a form for the sake of deceiving us." ### [6.182](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.182) "O good people, this is not so!" others said, "Rather, listen: / a god has come to test Vasumatī's virtue!" ### [6.183](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.183) While the people were discussing many such conjectures among themselves, / meanwhile, dear friend Dhāriṇī, hear what happened there! ### [6.184](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.184) Resplendent with armlets, necklaces, and bracelets, charming of body, / a god of radiant splendour suddenly appeared there. ### [6.185](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.185) That god said: "Listen to his story, good people! / Not knowing the ultimate truth, why do you make many kinds of conjectures? ### [6.186](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.186) This evil-doer was indeed a sky-goer named Sumaṅgala; / he had mastered many kinds of magical spells, renowned in the city of the Vidyādharas. ### [6.187](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.187) Then one day, as he wandered about towns of his liking, / this youth, maddened with desire, arrived here in this city. ### [6.188](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.188) He stood in the sky and saw this Vasumatī, / who had gone up to the terrace after bathing, and gazed at her for a long time. ### [6.189](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.189) When he saw her beauty, his mind was deeply perturbed; / assuming the form of Dhanapati, he descended into the house here. ### [6.190](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.190) Not knowing the truth, Vasumatī was enjoyed by him; / and with his mind delighting in sexual pleasure, that great sinner thought: ### [6.191](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.191) "Remaining in the form of Dhanapati, unknown to everyone here, / I shall enjoy the pleasures of love along with this fair-bodied woman. ### [6.192](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.192) What do I need with Vidyādhara women, or what need have I of other maidens, / now that I have obtained this lady, a treasure of beauty and charm?" ### [6.193](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.193) Reflecting thus, he abducted Dhanapati, / carried him off to the land of Bharata, and abandoned him in the city of Vinītā. ### [6.194](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.194) Concealing his own form and assuming the appearance of Dhanapati by magic, / he has remained here, addicted to love with Vasumatī. ### [6.195](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.195) Now that merchant Dhanapati, that excellent man, having reached the city of Vinītā, / looked upon the unfamiliar city and thought with an astonished heart: ### [6.196](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.196) "What noble city is this? Where indeed is the city of Mekhalāvatī? / Who has abducted me, or am I seeing this in a dream?" ### [6.197](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.197) While he wandered outside the city reflecting in this manner, / he saw an omniscient one who had arrived in an excellent garden, ### [6.198](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.198) born in the lineage of the illustrious Jina Ṛṣabhanātha, renowned in the three worlds, / a royal sage named Daṇḍavirata, surrounded by a host of monks. ### [6.199](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.199) Filled with joy upon seeing him, he circumambulated him three times, / bowed at the feet of the omniscient one, and sat down in a suitable place. ### [6.200](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6.200) Recognizing an opportune moment, he bowed and inquired: / "Blessed one, by whom was I abducted? What region is this? _First 200 of 251 passages. [Read on](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6)_ ## Linked texts (1) - [Surasuṃdarīcariya](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya.6.1) — Dhaneśvara, Māhārāṣṭrī Prakrit --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6](https://indike.org/pramana/in.jaina.post.katha.surasundaricariya~en-mt.6) · Pramāṇa