Shree Shookdeo Jeesaid,—O lord of the earth! I will give an account now how Shree Krishnù Chund brought Brindabun to mind; listen attentively. One day Huri said to Bulram Jee, “Brother! all the inhabitants of Brindabun must be very much grieved on thinking of me, because the time has elapsed, in which I promised to return. We ought therefore, to send some one there, to console them for my absence.”
Having thus advised his brother, Huri sent for Oodho, and said to him, “Oodho! you are a great friend of mine; and are wise and intelligent, and resolute. I therefore wish to send you to Brindabun to offer explanations and consolation to Nund and Jusodha, and the cowherdesses, and to bring my mother Rohnee here.” Oodho expressed an immediate readiness to comply with this request. Shree Krishnù Chund again said, “First of all, inform Nund and Jusodha, and cheer up their spirits, and suggest to them to abandon all grief, and to look upon my arrival as near at hand; and not to regard me as their son, but worship me as a deity. Afterwards explain to those cowherdesses, who for my sake have given up all respect for the world and for the Vedas, and day and night sing of my sports, and are ready to die, if I do not fulfil their expectation of my returning, that they must no longer consider me as their lord, but worship me as Bhugwan, and lay aside all the anxiety they now suffer in consequence of my separation from them.”
O great king! having thus instructed Oodho, the two brothers wrote a letter, in which they expressed to Nund and Jusodha, and the cowherds and their children their respects and compliments, and blessing in due form: and advised all the women of Bruj to perform penance, and delivered the letter to Oodho, and told him to read it to them; and after having made the necessary explanations to return quickly. Having given him this message, Krishnù dressed Oodho in his own clothes, and gave him his own jewels and crown, and seating him on his own ruth, allowed him to depart to Brindabun. Proceeding on his journey, Oodho reached the neighbourhood of Brindabun after a short time, and on arrival there, heard birds singing melodiously in the thickly stocked arbours, and cows of all colours, scattered like clouds in every direction—and the cowherdesses and cowherds, with their children, singing the praises of Shree Krishnù.
He was delighted at the beauty of the scene, and making obeisance to the site of Krishnù’s sports, arrived at the outskirts of the village, when some one having recognized the ruth of Huri from a distance came and having enquired his name, went to Nund and said, “O great king! a person, named Oodho, has arrived from Muttra, in the appearance and ruth of Shree Krishnù.”
On hearing these words Nund Rae came forth from amidst the assembly of the cowherds, where he was then sitting, and immediately approached Oodho. Regarding him as the companion of Bulram and Krishnú, he embraced him with the greatest affection; and enquiring kindly of his health and welfare, escorted him to his house with great dignity and respect; having caused his feet to be washed, he offered him a seat, and feasted Oodho with delicacies of all kinds; when Oodho had enjoyed and finished his meal, Nund had an elegant couch prepared for him, shining like the foam of the sea, on which, after eating pawn, he reclined most agreeably, and forgot all the fatigues of his journey.
When after some time, Oodho awoke, Nund, the chief, came and sat near him, and enquired after his son, Soorsen, and his great friend, Basoodeo and his family, and asked whether they still continued to love him. Nund added, “Give me news of my son, with whom you have abode constantly. Does he ever think of me, who am greatly grieved at his absence? He promised us all to return, but the time of his return has long elapsed. Jusodha constantly churns and makes butter for Krishnù, and places it apart for him. Does Krishnù ever think of her and the women of Bruj, who are deeply imbued with love and affection for him?”
Having proceeded thus far in the narrative, Shree Shookdeo Jee said to the Raja Pureechit,—O lord of the earth! in this manner enquiring the news and celebrating the former sports of Shree Krishnù Chund, Nund Rae Jee, being deeply impregnated with affection for Krishnù, and meditating upon him, became silent—“He has destroyed Kuns, and other powerful men; why should Krishnù now forget us?”
In the mean while the Ranee Jusodha, greatly agitated, and losing all sense and perception, came weeping bitterly to Oodho and enquiring after Bulram and Krishnù said, “Tell me, Oodho Jee! how has Huri passed his time so long without us, and what message has he sent us, and when will he return to us?”
On hearing these words Oodho Jee read the letter of Shree Krishnù and Bulram to Nund and Jusodha, and said, “Who can explain the greatness of those, in whose house Bhugwan has been born, and whom he has made happy by his sports? You are most fortunate, because how can the immortal Vishnù, the lord of Shivù and Bruhmù, who has neither mother, nor father, nor brother nor relations, whom you look upon as your own son, and constantly fix your thoughts and meditate upon, remain separated from you? Huri is constantly near those who love him; having assumed mortal shape for the sake of men, he has neither friends nor enemies, whether of high or low estate. Whoever offers adoration and worship to Huri, will be united to him, and become a follower of his. As the large black bee carries off another insect, and moulds it to its own form, and as it remains enclosed in the flower of the lotus, and does not leave it and fly away, although other bees buzz over it during the whole night: in like manner Huri fashions after his own model, and never abandons those who love him, and meditate upon him.” Oodho added, “Do not any longer regard Huri as your son, but reverence him as the deity. Krishnù, the lord, who knows the secrets of the heart, and befriends his worshippers, will appear and come to you, and accomplish all your desires: be not at all anxious in your minds.”
O great king! when in conversation of this kind the whole night, with exception of about an hour, was spent, Oodho Jee said to Nund Rae, “O great king! it is now time for churning: with your permission, I will go and bathe in the Jumna.” Nund, the chief, gave his assent; he remained seated where he was, engaged in thought and reflection, and Oodho Jee went in his ruth to the banks of the Jumna. Having taken off his clothes, and purified himself, he approached the water, and placing dust on his head, and joining his hands, singing the praises of the Jumna, sipping water in the palm of his hand, he went into the river; and having bathed, and performed his ablutions, and completed his meditations, adorations and libations, began to count his beads. At the same time, all the women of Bruj rose, and having swept and besmeared with mud and cow-dung, the inside of their houses, and having burnt perfumes and lighted lamps, began to churn. The sound of the churning was like thunder, and like the sound produced by anklets and ornaments for the toes. The beautiful women of Bruj, having churned took away the butter, and finished their household work, went all together for water.
O great king! the cowherdesses being distracted at separation from Krishnù, and deeply imbued with love for him, and celebrating his many excellent qualities with songs, began, as they went along the road, to meditate upon him, and sing of his sports. One said, “I have seen Krishnù;” another, “That he had run off and hid himself. He has laid hold of my arm from behind: Huri is now standing under the shade of a fig tree.” One remarked, “I saw him milking:” another, “I beheld him very early.” Some said, “He is tending herds; others, Listen! he is playing the flute. We will not go this road, as Krishnù will ask for presents. He will break our water pots, and untie the knots, on which we carry them; and will steal away our senses by his many glances. He is hid somewhere, and will come running towards us; and then where shall we escape.” The women of Bruj went along, conversing thus with each other; their minds being much agitated in consequence of their separation from Krishnù.
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O lord of the earth! when Oodho Jee had finished counting his beads, he came forth from the river, and putting on his clothes and ornaments sat down in his ruth. As he came near Nund’s village on his way from the banks of the river, the cowherdesses, who had come for water, saw his ruth from afar coming along the road. On seeing it, they began to say to each other, “Whose ruth is this? that is coming towards us, let us see, and afterwards proceed on our journey?” One of them said, “Friend, I hope that deceitful creature, Akroor, has not come, who took off Shree Krishnù Chund to live at Muttra, and caused him to kill Kuns.” Another said, “Why has this treacherous wretch come again, he has already taken away the root of our lives, and what more will he take away?”
O great king! carrying on various conversations of this kind, the women of Bruj stood still, having taken the water-pots from their heads, and placed them on the ground. In the mean while as the ruth came near some of the cowherdesses having seen Oodho a short way off, said to each other, “Friend! why this is some one of a black colour with lotus-like eyes, and a crown on his head; wearing a garland that reaches to his feet, dressed in yellow silk, and with a scarf of the same colour. He is sitting on a ruth like that of Shree Krishnù, and is looking at and coming towards us.” One of them remarked, “This person has been at Nund’s house since yesterday; his name is Oodho, and Shree Krishnù Chund has sent some message by him.”
On hearing these words, the cowherdesses, observing a retired spot, and laying aside all propriety and reserve, rushed towards Oodho Jee—and regarding him as the friend of Krishnù, they made obeisance, and enquired after Krishnù, standing on all sides of the ruth, with joined hands. Seeing their affection Oodho Jee left his ruth; and the cowherdesses having seated him under the shade of a tree, sat themselves down on all sides of him, and began to say in a most affectionate manner: “You have done well, Oodho, in coming, and bringing us news of Krishnù. You associate constantly with him; please inform us what message he has sent. You have been sent here only for the sake of his father and mother; he thinks of no one else. We have sacrificed every thing for him; our souls are entangled in his feet. He is occupied with his own affairs exclusively; and has given pain to all by his departure. And as birds leave trees without fruit, Huri in like manner has abandoned us; and although we have given up every thing to him, he has not become ours.”
O great king! when the cowherdesses, filled with delight in their love for Krishnù, had talked thus for some time, Oodho, perceiving the great sincerity of their love, was about to rise to make a salutation, when a cowherdess, who saw a bee on a flower, addressed Oodho, under pretence of addressing the bee—“O bee! thou hast imbibed the sweetness of Krishnù’s lotus-like feet; and, therefore, thou hast obtained the name of the honey maker. Thou art the friend of one who is deceitful; and, therefore, he has sent you as his messenger, do not touch our feet, because we know that all of a black colour are treacherous, such as you are, such is Krishnù; therefore, do not make salutations to us. In the same way that you roam from flower to flower, tasting its sweets, and belong not to any particular one, Huri does not love any one, or belong to any one.” Whilst the cowherdess was thus speaking another bee came; on seeing it, a cowherdess, named Seelta, said, “O bee, remain apart, and go and tell this in Muttra, where there is a hump-backed queen, and where Shree Krishnù Chund dwells. Why need I speak of one birth; in each succeeding birth your behaviour is the same? The Raja Buli gave up every thing, and you sent him to the infernal regions; and drove from her home one so virtuous as Seeta without fault on her part. Since they were thus treated, what had we to expect?” After this, all the cowherdesses in a body, joining their hands, said to Oodho, “Oodho Jee! we have lost our lord by the absence of Krishnù, take us away with you.”
Shree Shookdeo Jee said,—O great king! when the cowherdesses had thus spoken, Oodho Jee said, “I will explain the contents of the letter Krishnù has sent by me, to which listen attentively. He has written, that you must give up all hope of sexual pleasure, and offer devotion to him; and that he will never be separated from you; and he has added, that from the day you began to meditate on him, none have been so much loved by him as you.” Oodho added, “You have established a never-ending love for the first male, the immortal Huri; and regarded him as your lord, whom all else celebrate as the invisible, imperceptible, inscrutable being, and as earth, wind, water, fire and air dwell in the body, so Krishnù dwells in you; but through the influence of his delusive powers seems to be apart. Bear him in mind and meditate upon him. He always promoted the advantage of his worshippers; and by his remaining near meditation and religious knowledge are utterly destroyed. For this reason Huri has gone to live at a distance. And Shree Krishnù Chund gave me also to understand, that playing on the flute he invited you into the jungle, and when he saw the strength of your love and passion for him, he took part in your festivities; when you forgot his divinity, the lord of Judoos disappeared. When having recovered understanding, you again meditated upon Huri, he, knowing the piety of your minds, presented himself to you.”
O great king! when Oodho had thus spoken, the cowherdesses said angrily, “We have heard all your speeches; stand apart from us now. You tell us to cultivate knowledge and understanding, and perform penance, and tell us to abandon meditation and look up at the sky. You call him Narayun, in whose sports our minds have been deeply engaged. Why has he become an invisible and imperceptible being, who has conferred happiness on us from his childhood? And how has he, who was endowed with all good qualities and great personal beauty, become a being without qualities and form? Who will pay any attention to what you have said, considering that our souls are wrapped up in his beloved body?” One of them rose up and said, “Let us endeavour to conciliate Oodho: say nothing to him, but listen to what he says, and watch his looks.” Another said, “It is not his fault, the hump-backed woman (Koobja) has sent him here. He is now merely repeating what Koobja has taught him to say. Krishnù would never speak as Oodho has spoken since his arrival at Bruj. We are pierced with thorns at hearing such speeches, and cannot endure listening to them. He tells us to abandon all thought of sexual pleasure, and engage in devotion; when would Krishnù speak thus? Prayers, penance, fasting, vows and prescribed rules of conduct are all acts becoming widows. May Shree Krishnù live in every age, having conferred happiness on us all. Who makes use of ashes, and of cow-dung while her husband is alive? Say, where does this custom prevail? Our vows, penance and fasts consist in showing our love for Nund and Nundun constantly. Who can possibly blame you, Oodho? this is a dance of Koobja’s getting up.”
Having recited thus much, Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said, O great king! when Oodho had heard these affectionate words of the cowherdesses, he regretted and was ashamed that he had mentioned the subject of penance to them, and remained silent, with downcast looks. One of the cowherdesses enquired after Bulram, and said, “Does he ever think of and call to mind our childish love?” Another replied, “Friend! you are all cowherdesses and common village women, and the women of Muttra are beautiful, by whom Huri has been captivated, and is engaged in sports with them, why should he now think of us? Since he went to reside there, he has become the beloved of other women; had we known beforehand this would happen, we would not have let him go away. Regrets are now of no avail, it is better to lay aside grief, and hope for his return. Because, as during eight months the earth, forests and hills, endure heat in expectation of rain, which comes in due course and cools them; in like manner Krishnù will also come to us.” One said, “Huri has accomplished all his business, and has destroyed his enemies, and taken possession of their government, why should he come to Brindabun, and leave his kingly power to tend herds? O companions! give up all expectations of his coming. The case is quite hopeless; and we ought not to think any more about it.” One of them said, in great distraction of mind, “Why should we give up all hope of Krishnù? On seeing the forests, hills and the banks of the Jumna, where Shree Krishnù and Bulbeer engaged in sports, our recollection of Huri, the lord of our hearts, returns forcibly.” She then said, “This village of Bruj has become a sea of grief: his name is a boat in the midst of the stream. Krishnù will take across all who are immerged in the waters of absence and separation. Why has he forgotten, that he is lord of the cowherdesses? Is he not ashamed on account of his name?”
On hearing these words, Oodho, reflecting, began to say, “Happy are these cowherdesses! and blessed be their firmness, in having given up all else, and become absorbed in meditation upon Shree Krishnù Chund.”
O great king! Oodho Jee saw and praised their love, when at the same time all the cowherdesses rose up, and brought him to their homes with great respect and dignity. Perceiving their affection, he dined with them; and after resting he made them all very happy by telling them stories of Shree Krishnù. All the cowherdesses, having then performed poojah to Oodho Jee, and placed many presents before him, said with joined hands and the greatest humility, “Oodho Jee! go and say to Huri, lord! formerly you were very kind to us, and used to take us by the hand about with you; but since you have obtained power, you have written to us about penance at the suggestion of that strumpet, Koobja. We, poor, impure creatures, have never been initiated by a spiritual preceptor in any mystical prayer: what knowledge can we possibly possess; from our childhood we have loved him, and what do we know of the customs of penance? Why has Huri not come himself to tell us what penance to perform? This is not a subject to send a message about. Oodho! go and explain to him, that our lives are ebbing out, let him come and preserve them.”
O great king! when they had thus spoken, the cowherdesses were delighted in fixing their thoughts on Huri; and Oodho, having made the usual salutation, took leave and returned thence in his ruth to Brindabun. He remained there for some days; and on his way back he visited and stayed a few days at each of the places, where Shree Krishnù Chund had been engaged in sports. At length after some days he returned to Brindabun, and having gone to Nund and Jusodha, said with joined hands, “Owing to your friendship, I have stayed for some time at Bruj, and now, with your permission, will go to Muttra.” On hearing these words, the Ranee Jusodha went into the house, and brought forth milk, curds, butter and sweetmeats in large quantities; and presenting them to Oodho, said, “Give these to our beloved Shree Krishnù and Bulram, and tell our sister, Dewukee, to send them both to us without any delay.” Having communicated this message, the wife of Nund began to weep. Then Nund Jee said to Oodho, “What more need we say to you? You are yourself possessed of great sense, understanding and knowledge, and many excellent qualities; intercede for us with Krishnù in such a way that he, taking into consideration the sufferings of the inhabitants of Bruj, may come to us quickly, and not forget us altogether.”
After having thus spoken, when Nund Rae shed tears, and all the inhabitants of Bruj, male and female, standing round, began also to weep, Oodho Jee consoled them, and restored them to composure of mind by his explanations; and, accompanied by Rohnee, took his departure for Muttra; and after journeying some time, arrived at the abode of Shree Krishnù Chund. On seeing him, Shree Krishnù and Buldeo rose and embraced him, and enquired in the most affectionate manner regarding his health, and the news of Brindabun, “Say Oodho Jee! are Nund and Jusodha, and the inhabitants of Bruj all well, and do they ever think of us?” Oodho Jee replied, “O great king! I am quite unable to describe the greatness of Bruj, and the love of its inhabitants; you are their life; night and day do they think of you, and their love for you is as complete as a perfect worship, performed with all prescribed ceremonies. I mentioned to them your advice regarding the performance of penance; but I have learnt from them the manner, in which adoration should be offered.” Oodho Jee, having communicated this intelligence, added, “O merciful to the poor! what more need I say? you are acquainted with the secret thoughts of each mind; and understand me without any lengthened explanation on my part, that all things in Bruj, animate and inanimate, are greatly distressed at not being able to see and touch you; and the only hope they have is, that you may return.”
On hearing these words, the two brothers were greatly dispirited; and Oodho Jee, taking leaving of Shree Krishnù Chund, conveyed the message of Nund and Jusodha to Basoodeo and Dewukee, and went home. Rohnee Jee was filled with joy at meeting with Shree Krishnù and Bulram, and abode in her own house.
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O great king! one day the sportive Krishnù, the benefactor of his worshippers, thinking of the affection of Koobja, went to her house, with the view of performing the promise he had made her. When Koobja knew that Huri had come, she had cloths of silk spread for him to walk on. She advanced to meet him with the greatest joy; and all the good acts she had done in former births then received their reward. Having given Oodho a seat outside, Krishnù entered the house of Koobja; he there saw a splendid carpet spread in a picture gallery, on which was arranged a beautiful couch of flowers. Huri repaired to the couch, and Koobja, having withdrawn to another room, bathed and perfumed herself, and having combed her braided hair, wearing a most elegant dress and handsome jewels, adorned from head to foot, having eaten pawn, and being sweetly scented, approached Shree Krishnù Chund with the gaiety and endearment, with which Ruttee, (the wife of Ramudevù,) approaches her husband. Having veiled herself from a feeling of modesty, she remained apart and silent, having a great dread of the first interview. On seeing her, Shree Krishnù Chund, the root of joy, took her by the hand; and placing her near him, satisfied her desires. He then arose, and came to Oodho; blushing and smiling, and with downcast looks. O great king! having thus made Koobja happy, Shree Krishnù Chund returned home with Oodho Jee, and said to Bulram, “I promised Akroor that I would pay him a visit, so let us go to his house first and afterwards send him to Hustinapoor, to bring us the news of that quarter.” Upon this both brothers went to Akroor’s house; he was much pleased at seeing Krishnù; and making a salutation, and putting the dust of his feet on his head, said with joined hands, and with great humility of manner, “O lord of compassion! you have shown me great favour by coming here, and making my house pure.” Shree Krishnù replied, “Uncle! why do you exalt me so highly? I am your son;” and added, “through your kindness, uncle! all the demons have been destroyed, but there is one subject, which occasions me anxiety, as I have heard that Pandoo has gone to heaven, and that Doorjodhun tyrannizes over my five brothers. My aunt, Koontee, is greatly distressed; unless you go, who can afford her relief by explanations?” Akroor Jee, on hearing these words, said in reply to Huri, “Be not anxious on that subject, I will go to Hustinapoor and explain matters, and bring back all the news.”
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O lord of the earth! when Shree Krishnù Jee heard these words of Akroor, he sent him off to bring intelligence of Pandoo. After travelling from Muttra some days in his ruth, he reached Hustinapoor; and, on arrival there, went to the court of the Raja Doorjodhun, who was sitting on his throne, and, having made a salutation, stood before him. On seeing him, Doorjodhun arose with all his court, and embraced him; and seating him with great dignity and respect near him, made various enquiries, saying, “Happy are Soorsen and Basoodeo! happy Krishnù and Buldeo! Oogursen has been made a Raja by them, and on their account does not think of any one; since his son’s death he has reigned and is independent of every one.”
When Doorjodhun had thus spoken, Akroor was silent, and began to reflect, “That this was a court of wicked men, where it was not right for him to remain: because if he staid there, they would make many more such speeches, to which he could not with propriety listen; and, therefore, he ought not to remain there.”
With these thoughts in his mind, Akroor Jee arose, and went thence to the house of Pandoo, accompanied by Bidoor. On arrival there he beheld Koontee in great affliction at the loss of her husband, and shedding tears. He went and sat by her side, and said to her, “Mother! no one has power over Bruhmù; and no one is immortal, and lives for ever. Whilst in the body, the soul suffers pain and pleasure; for which reason it is not becoming in man to grieve and be anxious, because nothing is gained by indulging in grief; the mind only is afflicted by it.”
When, O great king! Akroor Jee had thus reasoned with Koontee, she reflected upon what he had said, and remained silent; and then enquired from Akroor, “Whether her mother, father, her brother, Basoodeo, and his relations were all well; and whether Shree Krishnù and Bulram ever thought of their five brothers, Bheem, Joodisthur, Urjoon, Nukool and Suhdeo. They are here fallen into a sea of trouble; and when will they come to their assistance and rescue? We cannot endure the tyranny of the blind Dritrasht; because he acts by the advice of Doorjodhun, and is day and night planning to destroy the five brothers. He has frequently mixed poison for them, which my Bheemsen once drank.” Koontee afterwards added, “O Akroor Jee! since all the members of the family of Kooroo are such great enemies, to whom are my children to look with affection, and how shall they grow up, and escape death? How shall I explain to you the great afflictions I endure? And as a doe, separated from the herd, is greatly alarmed, in like manner I am constantly disquieted and sad. They are my protectors, who have destroyed Kuns and all evil spirits. Go and tell them of the griefs of their brothers, Judisthur, Urjoon and Bheem.”
Akroor’s eyes filled with tears at hearing these words of Koontee, spoken with great humility; and he reasoned with her and said, “Mother! banish all anxiety, these five sons of yours will be very powerful and celebrated. They will utterly destroy their enemies, and all wicked persons as Shree Gobind is their ally.” Again Akroor Jee said, “Shree Krishnù and Bulram sent me here with this message, ‘Tell our aunt not to vex or fret herself, as we will soon come to her.’ ”
O great king! having thus delivered Shree Krishnù’s message, Akroor Jee entered into explanations with Koontee, and restored her to confidence and composure; and, taking leave went to Dritrasht, accompanied by Bidoor, and said to him, “Why do you, who are an old man, exercise such tyranny; and being under the influence of your son, make your nephews (brothers’ children) unhappy, after having forcibly seized upon the government of your brother? According to what code are you guilty of such injustice. You have lost your sight, but can you not see with the eyes of your mind, your family is being destroyed by your crimes. Why did you, when you were enjoying great ease and happiness, seize upon the government of your brother, and bring distress upon Bheem and Joodisthur?”
On hearing these words, Dritrasht laid hold of Akroor’s hand, said, “What can I do, no one will obey my orders? All follow their own counsel, and I am looked upon as a fool by them. For this reason I never take part in their affairs; but remain apart, and worship my lord in silence.”
When Dritrasht had thus spoken, Akroor Jee made a salutation, and rising went thence in his ruth; and departing from Hustinapoor came to the city of Muttra. He mentioned to Oogursen and Basoodeo the affairs of the Panduries, the sons of Koontee are greatly afflicted, and their bodies much emaciated with grief. Having told Oogursen and Basoodeo Jee all the news of Hustinapoor, Akroor went to Shree Krishnù and Bulram; and, making a salutation, said with joined hands, “O great king! I have been to Hustinapoor, and seen that your aunt and five brothers suffer great calamities at the hands of the Kooruvus. What more need I say, you know the secrets of the heart, and the state of affairs there; and the ruin which has befallen your family, are not hidden from you.”
Having thus spoken, and delivered Koontee’s message, Akroor Jee took leave, and returned home. And having heard all the intelligence which Akroor brought from Hustinapoor, Shree Krishnù and Buldeo, the gods of all the gods, sat down after the fashion of men, and engaged in thought, revolved in their minds, how they might remove the burthens of the world.
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, having recited thus much of the history to the Raja Pureechit, said,—O lord of the earth! I have related the first half of history, comprising what took place in the forest of Bruj and at Muttra, I will now relate the last half, if I obtain the power of the lord of Dwarka.
Wenow write the last half of the history. Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O great king! I will relate, how Shree Krishnù Chund conquered Joorasindhoo and his army, destroyed the right of the dead, released Moochkoond, and, having left Bruj, took up his abode in Dwarka: listen with the greatest attention.
The Raja Oogursen ruled over Muttra with great skill and policy; and Shree Krishnù and Bulram, like servants, were obedient to his orders. Under his government all his subjects were happy; except the widows of Kuns, who were greatly grieved at the loss of their husband. They could not sleep, and had no sensation of hunger or thirst. During the whole eight puhurs, they were in a state of sorrow.
One day the two sisters, being deeply engaged in thought, said to each other, “A woman has no excellence without her husband, as the subject has no excellence without his lord, or night without the moon. As we have lost our husbands, we ought not to stay here now; and it is better for us to go and live in the house of our father.”
O great king! the two queens, having thus determined, sent for a ruth, and travelled in it from Muttra to their father’s house, in the Behar country; and with tears related to him, how Shree Krishnù and Bulram had destroyed Kuns and all evil spirits.
On hearing their account, Joorasindhoo entered his court in great wrath, and said, “What powerful men are these, who have been born in the family of Judoo, and have made my daughters widows, after destroying the very powerful Kuns and all evil spirits? I will attack them with my whole army; and destroying with fire the city of Muttra, and all the family and descendants of Judoo, will carry off Bulram and Krishnù bound and alive: otherwise my name is not Joorasindh.”
Having thus spoken, he wrote letters to all the neighbouring Rajas, asking them to come to him with their armies; as he was about to revenge himself for the death of Kuns, by destroying all the descendants of Judoo, and making their race extinct. On receiving Joorasindhoo’s letters, all the Rajas of the different countries came quickly with their forces; and Joorasindhoo also arranged and prepared his army.
At length when Joorasindhoo took his departure from the Behar country to Muttra with all his army of demons, he had twenty-three complete armies with him; each army consisting of 21,817 charioteers and as many men mounted on elephants: 109,350 foot soldiers and 66,000 horsemen. Such were the twenty-three complete armies he had with him, each demon of which was powerful beyond description. O great king! when Joorasindhoo, accompanied with all his army of evil spirits, advanced, sounding the kettle-drum, the guardians of the ten quarters began to shake and tremble, and the gods to fly through fear. The earth apart began to be agitated, like the roof of a house, from the load. At length, after some days’ progress he arrived, and surrounded the city of Muttra on all sides. Upon this, the inhabitants of the city went in the greatest alarm to Shree Krishnù Chund, and exclaimed, “O great king! Joorasindhoo has encompassed our city on all sides; what shall we do, and where shall we go?”
On hearing these words, Huri reflected for a short time; and Bulram having, in the mean while, come to him, said, “O great king, you have descended upon the earth to remove the miseries of your worshippers, be pleased now to assume a body of fire, and destroy the forest in the form of an evil spirit.” At these words Shree Krishnù Chund went with him to Oogursen, and said, “O great king! give us an order to fight, and do you, having taken all the descendants of Judoo with you, protect the fort.” After these words, when they came to their father and mother, all the inhabitants of the city came round them and being greatly agitated began to say, “O Krishnù! how shall we escape from the hands of these demons?” Huri, perceiving that his mother and father and all the other people were alarmed, explained to them and said, “Suffer not any anxiety; this army of demons, which you now see, shall in a moment be dispersed in every direction, in the same manner that bubbles disappear in the water.”
Having thus explained, and restored their confidence, he took leave; and as Krishnù advanced, the gods sent two ruths, filled with arms for him. The chariots stood before them, and the two brothers entered them.
The two chiefs of the family of Judoo went forth and reached Joorasindhoo’s army safely, they came to the place where Joorasindhoo was standing. On seeing them Joorasindhoo said with great haughtiness to Shree Krishnù Chund, “Fly from before me, why should I kill you, you are not my equal that I should attack you? I will see what Bulram is made of.”
Shree Krishnù Chund replied, “O proud fool! what silly talk is this of yours. The brave never make high sounding speeches to any one; but behave with moderation to all; when occasion requires they exhibit their power; can they be called brave, who extol their own greatness? There is a saying, that when it thunders, it does not rain; so, wherefore, do you talk boastingly?”
At these words, Joorasindhoo was enraged; and Shree Krishnù and Buldeo retired a short distance, and stood in a state of preparation. He pursued and attacked them with his whole army, and called out, “O wicked wretches! where will you fly from my presence? You have long escaped alive; I know not what may be your thoughts, but you shall live no longer, I will send you and all the descendants of Judoo to the same place, where Kuns and all his demons have gone.”
O great king! when that devil had made this wicked speech the two brothers retired some distance further, and stood. Shree Krishnù was armed with weapons of all kinds, and Bulram Jee with a plough and wooden pestle. As the army of demons approached them, the two heroes shouted and rushed upon them like lions on a herd of elephants, and encountered them sword in hand. Then the kettle-drums sounded like thunder, and the assembled army of the demons was spread in every direction like clouds; the din of arms was as continued rain; in the midst of which Krishnù and Bulram, whilst fighting, appeared as brilliant and beautiful, as lightning amidst thick clusters of clouds. All the gods were sitting in their chariots, and viewing the battle from the sky, they celebrated the praises of Krishnù, and earnestly wished that he might be victorious; and Oogursen and all the descendants of Judoo were extremely anxious, and regretted that they had allowed Shree Krishnù and Bulram to go forth to the army of demons.
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, having proceeded thus far in his narrative, said, O lord of the earth! when in the course of the battle a great portion of the army of demons had been destroyed, Buldeo Jee descended from his chariot, and bound Joorasindhoo. Upon this, Shree Krishnù Chund said to him, “Brother! let him live, do not kill him, because he will return and again bring more demons with him; whom we will destroy, and remove the burthens of the world, and if we do not spare his life, we shall lose the evil spirits, who have fled.” In consequence of this expostulation of Krishnù, Buldeo Jee released Joorasindhoo, who went off and joined those who had fled from the field. Looking around he said with regret, “My whole army has vanished, the greatest calamity has befallen me. Why should I live? I will abandon my home, and turn devotee.” A councillor said to him, expostulating, “Why should a wise man like you regret, sometimes there is defeat, and sometimes victory? No one should abandon his government and home. What matters it that you have been defeated in this battle, we will collect our forces again, and send Krishnù and Buldeo, and all the descendants of Judoo to heaven; banish all anxious thought.”
O great king! the councillor having thus expostulated, returned home with Joorasindhoo, and all the demons, who had fled from the battle; and there began to assemble another army. Shree Krishnù and Bulram saw blood flowing in a stream on the battle-field, in which chariots without their charioteers were carried along like boats; in different places the dead elephants appeared like hills, from whose wounds blood spouted forth like springs. There Muhadeo, accompanied by goblins and spirits, and wearing a necklace of human heads, was dancing and singing in the greatest glee; and female spirits and goblins, and the attendants of Devee were drinking blood out of skulls; vultures, jackalls and crows were devouring the bodies, and contending with each other for the flesh.
Having recited thus much, Shree Shookdeo Jee said,—O great king! the regent of the winds collected all the chariots, elephants, horses and demons together, and fire burnt them to ashes in a second. The five elements were re-united with each other, all saw them come but no one saw where they departed. Having thus put the demons to death, and removed the burthens of the earth, Shree Krishnù and Bulram, the benefactors of their worshippers, came to Oogursen, and, making a salutation, said with joined hands, “O great king! through your excellence and majesty, we have destroyed and routed the army of the demons, rule now without fear, and promote the happiness of your subjects.” The Raja Oogursen was very much pleased at these words, and made great rejoicings, and began to rule with justice.
After some time, Joorasindhoo came forth to attack with another army as large as the former one, which Shree Krishnù and Buldeo destroyed and dispersed as before. In this manner, Joorasindhoo attacked seventeen times with his twenty-three armies, which Krishnù drove back, after having inflicted great slaughter on them.
After reciting thus much of the history, Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said to the Raja Pureechit,—O great king! at this time upon a sudden thought Narud Jee rose, and went off to the abode of Kaljumun. On seeing him, he stood up with all his court, and making a salutation, enquired in a respectful manner, and with joined hands, the reason of his coming. At these words Narud, after a little thought, said, “Bulbhuddrù and Krishnù are at Muttra, no one, except you, can drive them away, Joorasindhoo has not met with any success. You are immortal and very powerful, Buldeo and Huri are children.” Narud Jee added, “Do not cease to follow him, whom you observe of the colour of the clouds, with lotus eyes, a very elegant person dressed in yellow silk, and with a yellow scarf.”
Having thus spoken, Narud, the sage, departed; and Kaljumun began to prepare his army. After some days, he collected three crores of very unclean men of terrifying aspect, with stout arms and thick necks, large teeth, dirty appearance, brown hair, red eyes, like small red and black seeds; with whom, sounding the kettle-drum, he advanced against the city of Muttra, and surrounded it on all sides. Shree Krishnù Chund, having seen what he had done, thought to himself, “It is not right to remain here, because to-day he has come to attack, and to-morrow Joorasindhoo will come; the inhabitants will be distressed; wherefore, it is most advisable, that all should leave this place, and go and dwell elsewhere.”
O great king! Huri, having thus reflected, sent for Bishookurma, and, explaining to him, said, “Go and build a city in the midst of the sea, in which all the descendants of Judoo may live comfortably, without knowing that they are not living in their own houses; and convey them all there in a second.”
On hearing these words Bishookurma departed, and, according to the injunction of Shree Krishnù Jee, built, during the night, in the sea, on the quoit of Vishnù, a city, forty-eight coss in extent; and having named it Dwarka, returned and informed Huri, who ordered him to convey all the descendants of Judoo there in such a manner, that no one might know, whence they had come, and who had brought them.
When Krishnù had thus spoken, Bishookurma conveyed all the descendants of Judoo, together with Oogursen and Basoodeo to the city in the course of the night, and Shree Krishnù and Bulram also went there. In the mean while, on hearing the sound of the waves of the sea, the descendants of Judoo awoke; and being greatly astonished began to say to each other, “Whence has the sea come to Muttra? We cannot understand this mystery at all.”
Having proceeded thus far in his narrative, Shree Shookdeo Jee said to the Raja Pureechit,—O lord of the earth! having thus had the descendants of Judoo brought to Dwarka, Shree Krishnù Chund said to Buldeo Jee, “Brother! let us go now, and afford protection to our subjects, and kill Kaljumun.” Upon these words, the two brothers went thence to Brujmundul.
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O great king! Shree Krishnù Chund came to Brujmundul alone, having left Bulram Jee at Muttra: and went forth and stood in front of the army of Kaljumun, a sea of beauty, the light of the world, dressed in yellow silk, wearing a scarf of the same colour, and ornamented from head to foot. On seeing him, Kaljumun began to say, “This must be Krishnù, he has all the marks mentioned by Narud, the sage, it is he who has destroyed Kuns and all evil spirits, and slaughtered the armies of Joorasindhoo.” With these thoughts in his mind, Kaljumun called out, and said, “Why are you running away, Krishnù? Come here, you have now to deal with me, stand and fight. I am not Joorasindhoo nor Kuns. I will extirpate the whole race of Judoo.”
Raja! having thus spoken, Kaljumun advanced alone in pursuit of Shree Krishnù Chund, leaving his whole army behind him: but that fool did not understand Krishnù’s nature. Krishnù ran on, and Kaljumun followed him at a hand’s distance, when he had advanced some distance, Krishnù entered a cave in a hill, where he saw a man lying asleep; having quickly put his yellow silk scarf upon him, he concealed himself apart on one side. Afterwards, Kaljumun came running and panting to the same very dark cave; and seeing a man asleep with a yellow scarf thrown over him, thought to himself, that it was Krishnù, pretending to be asleep. O great king! thinking thus, and being angry, Kaljumun gave the sleeper a kick, and said, “O trickster! what deceit are you practising, in pretending to be sleeping at your ease like an honest man? Rise, as I intend to kill you immediately.” With these words he snatched away the yellow cloth from over him. He started up; and when he cast an angry look at Kaljumun, he was burnt to ashes. At this part of the history, the Raja Pureechit said, “Explain to me, Basoodeo, who the man was, that had gone into the cave, by whose look Kaljumun was reduced to ashes, who conferred a great boon on him?” Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O lord of the earth! it was Moochkoond, Manghata’s son, a Chutree of the family of Ichwak, very powerful and renowned; whose fame, for destroying enemies and armies was spread over nine divisions of the earth. On one occasion, the gods, having been harassed by evil spirits, came in great alarm to Moochkoond, and said in a tone of great supplication, “O great king! evil spirits have increased greatly; we cannot escape from them, come quickly, and protect us.” It has been an immemorial custom for Chutrees to assist gods, sages and saints, when their own power fails them.
On hearing these words, Moochkoond accompanied them, and began to fight with the evil spirits. The battle lasted for many ages, when the gods said to Moochkoond, “O great king! you have undergone great labour on our account; rest somewhere now, and give ease to your body. You have fought for many days; your wealth, dwelling and family are all gone, not one of your relations is left; do not therefore set foot in your own house. Go any where else you please.” Moochkoond said in reply to the gods, “O lords of the earth! kindly point out to me some retired spot, where I may sleep, free from all care and anxiety, and no one awake me.” The gods were delighted at this speech, and said to Moochkoond, “O great king! go and sleep in the cave of the great white mountain. No one will awake you there: and if any one should go there by accident, and do so, he will be burnt to ashes by a single glance of your eye.”
Having proceeded thus far in the narrative, Shree Shookdeo Jee, said to the Raja,—O great king! having obtained this boon from the gods, Moochkoond went and dwelt in that cave; and therefore, Kaljumun was burnt to ashes by a glance from his eye. Shortly afterwards Krishnù, the abode of compassion, the benefactor of his worshippers, of the colour of the clouds, with a face like the moon, lotus eyes, four arms, and holding in his hand a shell, quoit, club and lotus, wearing a crown in the shape of a peacock, and ear-rings formed like the sign Capricorn, having a garland reaching to his feet, and dressed in yellow silk, appeared to Moochkoond; who, on beholding him, prostrated himself, so as to touch the ground with the eight principal parts of his body, and rising up, said with joined hands, “O lord of mercy! as you have come into this great dark cave, and by your light have dispersed the darkness, please take compassion on me; and explaining your name and nature, remove all the doubts of my mind.” Shree Krishnù Chund replied, “My births, destinies and attributes are manifold, and cannot be counted by any one, whatever computations he may make. But I will explain to you the secrets of my present birth, to which listen. I have been born in the house of Basoodeo, and been named Basoodeo in consequence. And in the city of Muttra, I have destroyed Kuns and all evil spirits, and removed the burthens of the earth. And Joorasindhoo has been defeated by me, who attacked me seventeen times with twenty-three armies. And this Kaljumun, who has been reduced to ashes by your glance had brought a mob of three crores of unclean persons to fight with me.” When Krishnù had thus spoken, Moochkoond became possessed of knowledge, and said, “O great king! your delusive power is exceedingly great; it has enchanted the whole world; and under its influence no one’s understanding and senses retain their balance. All engage in schemes for the sake of happiness, and suffer calamity; as a dog, who, in gnawing a bone, sucks in his own blood, he thinks he sucks it from the bone, and looks upon calamity as a pleasure; and, O great king! whoever comes into the world, cannot, without your favour, escape from this dark well, in the form of a dwelling; I am, therefore, anxious to know how I shall be released from it.” Shree Krishnù Jee said, “Listen, Moochkoond! the case is as you have stated it: but I will explain to you a plan, by adopting which, you will obtain release. Having obtained royal authority, you have, for the sake of land, wealth and women, committed many acts of injustice, which cannot be obliterated without the performance of penance. Wherefore, go to the Northern quarter, and there practise religious austerity. On quitting your present body, you shall be born again in the house of a holy man; and afterwards obtain salvation.”
When Moochkoond, O great king! heard these words, he thought the black age had come; with these thoughts in his mind, he took leave of Krishnù, having made a salutation, and circled to the right by way of adoration, and went to Budreenath. Shree Krishnù Chund having returned to Muttra, said to Bulram Jee, “I have extirpated Kaljumun, and sent Moochkoond towards Budreenath. The army, with which Kaljumun has surrounded Muttra, is immense. Come, and let us kill those impure wretches, and remove all the burthens of the earth.”
Having thus spoken, Shree Krishnù Chund, accompanied by Bulram, went forth from the city of Muttra, and came to the place where the army of Kaljumun was standing in battle array; and on their arrival, they both began to fight with it. At length when, in the course of the battle, Krishnù had slaughtered all the army of the barbarians, he said to Buldeo Jee, “Brother! let us now take all the wealth of Muttra and send it to Dwarka.” Bulram Jee assented; then Shree Krishnù Chund had all the riches of Muttra brought out and laden on buffaloes, carts, camels and elephants, and sent to Dwarka.
In the mean while, Joorasindhoo made another attack upon Muttra, with twenty-three complete armies. Shree Krishnù and Bulram came out in great alarm, and showing themselves before Joorasindhoo ran off with a view of quieting the troubles of his mind. A counsellor then said to Joorasindhoo, “O great king! who is so powerful as to make a stand before your majesty? Behold the two brothers, Krishnù and Bulram, running away from dread of you, leaving their wealth and home, and escaping with uncovered feet, with their lives alone.”
On hearing these words from the minister, Joorasindhoo followed them with his army, and called out, “Why are you flying from fear, stand, and do something? Why do you tremble violently, whether lying down or sitting up? Your death is at hand.”
Having narrated thus much, Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said, O lord of the earth! when Shree Krishnù and Buldeo Jee fled after the manner of mortals, all Joorasindhoo’s former disasters were banished from his mind; and he was rejoiced beyond description. Shree Krishnù and Bulram ran on, and ascended a hill, named Guotum, which was forty-four coss high, and stood upon the summit of it. Joorasindhoo on perceiving this, exclaimed, “Bulbhuddrù and Moorari have ascended the peak of the hill. How can they escape me now? set fire to the hill.”
When Joorasindhoo had thus spoken, all the evil spirits surrounded the hill; and bringing wood and doors from the towns and villages spread them on all sides of it: and throwing old clothes upon them, saturated with ghee and oil, set fire to the whole.
When the fire rose up in a flame to the top of the hill, the two brothers contrived to take the road to Muttra, so as that no one saw them going; and the hill was burnt to ashes. Joorasindhoo then supposing that Krishnù and Bulram had been consumed by fire, together with the hill, was greatly rejoiced, and taking his whole army with him came to Muttra; and seizing the government, issued a proclamation, establishing his own authority. He pulled down all the old houses belonging to Oogursen and Basoodeo, and built new ones of his own.
Having recited thus much of the history, Shree Shookdeo Jee said to the Raja,—O great king! having thus deceived Joorasindhoo, Shree Krishnù and Bulram Jee, went and abode at Dwarka; and Joorasindhoo also departed from Muttra with all his army; and returned home rejoicing, and without fear.
Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said,—O great king! hear the progress of the history. When Shree Krishnù Chund, the root of joy, came to Dwarka, after having slain Kaljumun, released Moochkoond, deceived Joorasindhoo, accompanied by Buldeo Jee, life was revived in all the descendants of Judoo; and joy was diffused over the whole city: the inhabitants began to enjoy ease and happiness.
Sometime after this, several of the descendants of Judoo went one day to the Raja Oogursen and said, “O great king! it is now necessary to make some arrangements for Bulram Jee’s marriage, because he is of a marriageable age.”
On hearing these words, the Raja Oogursen sent for a brahmin, and entering into many explanations, and giving very particular instructions, said, “Go and betroth Bulram in some good family.”
Having thus spoken, and ordered the mixture rolee, rice, a rupee and a cocoanut to be brought, Oogursen marked the brahmin’s forehead; and presenting him with the rupee and cocoanut allowed him to depart. He pursued his journey, and arrived at the abode of the Raja Rewut in the Anurta country. Having betrothed Bulram Jee to his daughter Rewutee, and fixed upon a favourable moment, he brought the marks for the forehead by the hands of the Raja’s brahmin, and presented them to Oogursen at Dwarka; and informed him of all that had occurred, while he was in the Raja’s country. The Raja Oogursen was very much pleased with the account; and, giving a festive entertainment, he sent for the brahmin, who had brought the marks, and received them from him; and dismissed him with a large present of money, and afterwards went himself in great splendour and state, accompanied by all the descendants of Judoo, to the country of Anurta, and celebrated Bulram Jee’s marriage.
Having proceeded thus far in the narrative, Shree Shookdeo, the sage, said to the Raja,—O lord of the earth! in this manner the descendants of Judoo celebrated Bulram’s marriage. And Shree Krishnù Chund Jee, accompanied by his brother, went to Koondulpore; and having fought with evil spirits, carried off Rookmunee, the daughter of the Raja Bheekmuk, who had been betrothed to Sissoopal; and married her at his own home.
Having heard this, the Raja Pureechit enquired from Shree Shookdeo Jee, “O sea of compassion! how did Shree Krishnù Chund go to Koondulpore, and slay the evil spirits, and carry off Bheekmuk’s daughter, Rookmunee? Please explain these circumstances to me.” Shree Shookdeo Jee replied, O great king! listen with attention, and I will give you a full account of all the circumstances.
In the Bidurbh country there was a city, named Koondulpore, the Raja of which, Bheekmuk, was renowned, and known to fame in all parts of the world. Shree Seeta Jee descended upon the earth in his house. At the birth of his daughter, the Raja sent for astrologers, who came, and having determined upon a fortunate moment, named the child Rookmunee, and said, “O great king! we are of opinion, that this girl will possess an excellent disposition, be a receptacle of beauty, and equal Luchmee in excellent qualities, and be married to the first male, Vishnù.”
When the astrologers had thus spoken, Raja Bheekmuk was highly pleased, and indulged in great rejoicings and made many presents to brahmins. After this, the girl increased daily in stature, like a digit of the moon; and delighted her parents by her childish play. When she was a little older, she engaged in all kinds of rare games with her female companions. One day this young creature, with eyes like a deer, a voice like the kokila, complexion like the flower chumpa, and a countenance like the moon, went with her companions to play at blind man’s buff. Whilst engaged in the diversion, her companions said to her, “Rookmunee! you have come to spoil our sport; because wherever you hide with us in the dark, there is a flood of light from the brilliancy of your moon-like countenance, which prevents our being concealed.” On hearing this speech, she smiled and was silent.
Having narrated thus much of the history, Shree Shookdeo Jee said, O great king! she constantly played in this manner with her companions, and her beauty greatly increased every day. In the mean while Narud Jee came one day to Koondulpore; and, having seen Rookmunee, went to Shree Krishnù at Dwarka, and said, “O great king! a young virgin has been born in the house of the Raja Bheekmuk, who is a mine of beauty and virtue and excellent qualities, equal to Luchmee, and worthy of being wedded to you.” From the time he heard this account from Narud Jee, Huri thought of her night and day. In this manner, O great king! Shree Krishnù Chund heard of the name and excellent qualities of Rookmunee; and I will now explain how she heard of the fame and celebrity of Krishnù. On one occasion several beggars from different countries went to Koondulpore, and sung the celebrated exploits of Krishnù, his birth at Muttra, his joining with the cowherds’ children in childish games at Gokool and Brindabun; and how he had made the descendants of Judoo happy by destroying evil spirits, and removing the burthens of the earth. All these circumstances they mentioned. On hearing the recital of Huri’s wonderful actions, the inhabitants of the city were greatly astonished, and said to each other, “When shall we see him, of whose exploits we have heard.” By some means, the beggars contrived to enter the court of the Raja Bheekmuk, and began to sing of the famous deeds, and the attributes of Krishnù. At that time the beautiful Rookmunee had gone up to a balcony; and the voices of the beggars, reciting Krishnù’s exploits, reached her ears. She wondered and was absent in mind; and turning round and peeping, wanted to see the beggars. The Raja’s daughter, having heard Krishnù’s history, remained absorbed in thought of him; the creeper of love sprung up in her breast; she was delighted and agitated by turns. Huri stole away her senses, memory and mind. Shree Shookdeo Jee continued,—O lord of the earth! in this manner Shree Rookmunee Jee heard of the fame and celebrity of Krishnù, and from that day she continued to think of him day and night, during the eight puhurs, and sixty four ghurees; whether asleep or awake, sitting, standing, walking, eating, drinking or engaged in amusement; and celebrated his good qualities with songs. She was in the habit of rising very early, and having bathed, and made a mud image of the goddess Parbuttee, she put upon it the mixture roolee, rice and flowers; and preparing perfumes, lamps and consecrated food, propitiated the goddess with joined hands, and downcast looks, and pronounced these words in presence of the image, “Take pity on me, O Parbuttee! give me the lord of the Judoos as a husband, and remove all my troubles.” In this manner Rookmunee passed her life. One day she was amusing herself with her companions, when the Raja Bheekmuk, beholding her, began to think and say to himself, “She is now of an age to be married; if we do not marry her to some one quickly, people will laugh. There is a saying, that it is useless for a man, in whose house there is a grown-up unmarried daughter, to offer gifts, or perform good acts, or be engaged in prayers, or religious penance; because he obtains no benefit from the performance of such acts, until he shall have discharged the debt due to his daughter.”
Having thus reflected, the Raja Bheekmuk came into his court; and, having summoned all his ministers and relations said, “Brothers! my daughter is marriageable, it is necessary to look out for a bridegroom for her, of good family, a mine of good qualities, an abode of beauty and of a good disposition.”
On hearing these words, they mentioned the families, virtues, personal appearance and power of the Rajas of many different countries; but Raja Bheekmuk did not approve of any of them. Then his eldest son, named Rookum, began to say, “Father! Sissoopal, the Raja of the city of Chunderee, is very powerful, and in every respect our equal, betroth Rookmunee to him, and gain reputation in the world.”
O great king! when the Raja would not acquiesce in his opinion, his younger son, whose name was Rookumkesh, said, “Father! give Rookmunee to Krishnù, and betroth her through Basoodeo.” Bheekmuk was highly delighted at these words, and commended his son’s speech: “You, although only a child, are more intelligent than the rest, I approve entirely of what you have said; there is a saying, enquire from persons of high and low degree, in order to give confidence to your own judgment; seize upon what is valuable in the discourse of each; this is the custom of the world.” After this the Raja again said, “Rookumkesh has given good counsel; amongst the descendants of Judoo, the Raja Soorsen is very celebrated and of great renown, whose son Basoodeo Jee is; and in his house the immortal Vishnù, the god of gods, Shree Krishnù Chund Jee, has been born, and destroyed the mighty Kuns, and all evil spirits; and, having removed the burthens of the earth, has shed splendour on the family of Judoo, and conferred happiness on all the descendants of Judoo, and other subjects; we shall acquire fame and greatness in the world by bestowing Rookmunee on such a personage as Shree Krishnù Chund Jee, the lord of Dwarka.” At these words, all the people of the court were highly delighted, and said, “O great king! you have determined well, and will not meet with such a bridegroom, and of so good a family any where else. It is, therefore, most advisable to give Rookmunee in marriage to Shree Krishnù Chund Jee.”
When, O great king! all the courtiers had thus spoken, Raja Bheekmuk’s eldest son, Rookum, was exceedingly wroth, and said, “These stupid, ignorant people speak without thinking, and do not understand Krishnù’s condition; he has lived with Nund sixteen years, and is universally called a cowherd; he tends herds, and wears a blanket, and eats his labourer’s food, seated on a fig tree: he is a village cowherd, and has no caste or rank. And how do we know whose son he is. Seeing that no one knows any thing about his father and mother; some look upon him as the son of the cowherd, Nund, and others as Basoodeo’s son; but no one has yet found out, to a certainty, whose son Krishnù is; and, therefore, each person speaks of him as he pleases. O great king! all people honour and respect us, and know our family; but since when have the descendants of Judoo become Rajas? What matters it, that lately they have acquired greatness, the first stain cannot yet be got rid of? He is called the servant of Oogursen; how can we possibly obtain a great name in the world by betrothing Rookmunee to him. There is a saying, that it is most fitting to contract marriages, enmities and friendships with equals. And if we give her to Krishnù, the world will call me a cowherd’s brother-in-law; and my good name and reputation will be utterly ruined.” O great king! Rookum went on to say, “That Raja Sissoopal of the city of Chunderee was a very mighty and potent prince. From dread of him the world trembles, and the throne has descended in his family from time immemorial. Your best plan, therefore, is to give Rookmunee to him; and please never mention Krishnù’s name again before me.”
On hearing these words, the courtiers felt deep regret, and remained silent through fear; and the Raja Bheekmuk did not say any thing. Upon this Rookum sent for an astrologer; and having fixed upon a lucky day and fortunate moment, forwarded the nuptial gifts to the Raja Sissoopal by the hand of a brahmin, who went with them to the city of Chunderee, to the court of the Raja Sissoopal. On seeing him, the Raja made a salutation, and enquired from the brahmin, “Say, O god! whence have you come, and with what object?” The brahmin gave him his blessing and explained the reasons of his arrival. Raja Sissoopal was delighted at hearing them; and having sent for his family priest, received the nuptial gifts and dismissed the brahmin with many presents. He afterwards invited Joorasindhoo and other Rajas, who came with their armies; and he also went forth with his troops to the marriage. The brahmin, who had taken the marks for the forehead, said on his return to the Raja Bheekmuk, “O great king! I have given the marks to the Raja Sissoopal, and he is coming to the marriage in splendid procession: arrange your plans accordingly.”
Raja Bheekmuk was at first very sad, when he heard these words: afterwards, having reflected and thought upon the matter, he went into his palace and mentioned the subject to his wife, who immediately sent for musicians, and invited all her female relations; and gave a great festive entertainment, with a view of celebrating the marriage in due form, and with all the prescribed ceremonies. The Raja then came forth, and ordered his minister and counsellors “To collect together all things necessary for the marriage;” and they immediately carried the Raja’s order into full effect by procuring every thing. People saw and heard what was being done: and a report got abroad in the city, that “Rookmunee was to have been married to Shree Krishnù Chund, but the wicked Rookum would not permit it; and that now she was to be married to Sissoopal.”
Having recited thus much of the history, Shree Shookdeo Jee said to the Raja Pureechit,—O lord of the earth! such was the talk in each house in the city: and in the palace, the women sang and played, and made the necessary preparations; brahmins read the Vedas, and caused all the usual customs of marriage to be duly observed: large kettle-drums resounded in many places; pillars formed of sprouting plantain were fixed in the earth, and golden water pots, placed in front of each door; strings of flowers and garlands were fastened in every direction, and on one side, the inhabitants of the city apart, swept and spread with cloths the markets, roads and cross-roads. Whilst there was this bustle and preparation inside and outside the house, some female friends of Rookmunee came and said to her, “Rookum has given thee to Sissoopal; and now, Rookmunee, you have become a queen.” Engaged in thought, and drooping her head she said, “My affections, words and vows are all centred in the lord of the world, (Krishnù.)”
Having thus spoken, Rookmunee was much depressed in spirits, and sent for a brahmin, to whom she explained all her wishes, with joined hands and with many supplications; and treating him with great consideration, said, “O great king! take my message to Dwarka, and having mentioned it to Dwarkanath (Krishnù), bring him here with you, I shall be under the greatest obligation to you, and shall think that I am indebted to your kindness in obtaining Shree Krishnù, as my bridegroom.” The brahmin replied, “Tell me what message I am to take, and I will mention it to Shree Krishnù Chund. He is the lord of compassion: and if he should compassionately consent to come, I will bring him with me.” When the brahmin had thus spoken, Rookmunee Jee gave into his hands a letter, written in the most affectionate terms, and said, “Deliver it to Shree Krishnù Chund, the root of joy, and say to him for me, that his servant, with joined hands and the greatest supplications, looks upon him, as being acquainted with the secrets of the heart, and knowing the inmost thoughts of every one. What more need I say? I have sought his protection: my character is in his hands, let him act in such a way, that it may be preserved, and come quickly and see me.”
When Rookmunee Jee, O great king! dismissed the brahmin with these words, he meditated upon Krishnù, and repeating his name started for Dwarka; and through his love for Huri, arrived immediately. On arrival, he beheld the city in the midst of the sea, surrounded on all sides by extensive forests and hills, and beautiful groves; in which were heard the cries of animals, and notes of birds of all kinds. There were elegant tanks, filled with pure water; in which the lotus was in full bloom, and bees buzzed in swarms around: on the bank, geese and cranes and other birds were disporting; gardens of fruits and flowers of every kind extended for many coss, on the borders of which betel plantations flourished. Gardeners were standing at the wells, singing sweet melodies; and, plying the water-wheels and buckets, poured forth water in every direction; and the quays were thronged with female water-carriers. As the brahmin progressed, after having viewed this beautiful scene with delight, he saw very lofty castles on all sides of the city, having four gates, and doors studded with jewels, and inlaid with gold. Inside the city were five and seven-storied houses of gold and jewels, glittering with great splendour, and reaching to the sky: the spires of which were as resplendent as lightning. Flags and banners of various colours were waving: perfumed odours came forth from the doors, blinds, air-holes and trellis-work: at each door were pillars of plantain sprouts, and golden water-pots, filled with water: wreaths of flowers and garlands were fastened in every direction; and there were sounds of musical rejoicing in every house. In many places the Pooranùs were recited, and people discoursed of Huri. The eighteen different classes lived happily and at ease, the quoit Soodursun protecting the city.
Having recited thus much of the history, Shree Shookdeo Jee said,—Raja! viewing this beautiful and elegant city, the brahmin arrived at the court of the Raja Oogursen; and, giving him his blessing enquired, “Where does Shree Krishnù Chund Jee dwell?” Some one pointed out his house; and when he arrived, and stood before the gate, the watchmen made a salutation on seeing him, and enquired, “Say, whence do you come, and from what country have you brought a letter?” He replied, “I am a brahmin, and an inhabitant of Koondulpore, and have come to deliver a letter to Shree Krishnù Chund from Rookmunee, the daughter of Raja Bheekmuk.” The door-keepers answered, “Be pleased to go into the house, Shree Krishnú Chund is sitting opposite on a throne.” At these words, when the brahmin entered, Huri, on seeing him, immediately descended from his throne, and making a salutation, received him with the greatest respect and dignity. Having seated him on his throne, and washed his feet, he took the water with which his feet had been washed, and waited upon him with the same assiduity, that a person would observe in attending upon a deity.
At length Krishnù, having rubbed him with perfumed paste, and having finished his ablutions, placed before him all kinds of delicacies; and afterwards presented him with pawn, and sprinkling him with saffron and sandal, placing a garland of flowers on his neck, took him to a chamber, ornamented with precious gems, and placed him on a bed with curtains, and studded with jewels.
O great king! he was weary and fatigued with his journey, and soon fell into a most pleasant sleep. Shree Krishnù sat for a long time near him from an anxious desire to hear what he had to communicate to him; and kept constantly saying to himself, “That the brahmin would wake soon.” When, at length, he found that he would not rise, he became uneasy; and sitting at the foot of his bed, began to rub his feet. The brahmin was awakened by this, and sat up. Then Huri made kind enquiries, and said, “Your government, country and person are auspicious, explain to me your circumstances, for what purpose have you come here, and conferred happiness on me by your arrival?” The brahmin replied, “O abode of mercy! be pleased to listen with attention, and I will explain the reasons of my coming: Since, O great king! the daughter of Bheekmuk, Raja of Koondulpore, heard of your great name, and your many excellent qualities, she has her thoughts fixed on you constantly, night and day, and desires to attend upon your lotus-like feet. A chance offered of her doing so, but it was rendered unsuccessful.” Krishnù enquired, “What the chance was?” The brahmin said, “O kind to the poor! one day the Raja Bheekmuk having assembled all his courtiers and relations, said to them, ‘Brothers! my daughter is of an age to be married; we must now fix upon a husband for her.’ When the Raja had thus spoken, they mentioned the families, virtues, renown and power of a great many Rajas, of whom, however, he did not approve. Upon this, Rookumkesh mentioned your name, at which the Raja was delighted, and acquiesced in what he proposed, and said to them all, ‘Brothers! his words are engraved in my mind, as though they had been engraved on stone, what is your opinion?’ They replied, ‘If, O great king! you were to search the aggregate of the three worlds, you would not meet with such a bridegroom, and such a family as his: for which reason, you should, without any delay, quickly give Rookmunee in marriage to Shree Krishnù Jee.’ O great king! this had been resolved upon, when Rookum prevented its being carried into effect, and betrothed Rookmunee to Sissoopal; and he has gone forth to the marriage, taking all his army of evil spirits with him.”
Having recited thus much of the history, Shree Shookdeo Jee said,—O lord of the earth! the brahmin, having thus informed Huri, delivered Rookmunee Jee’s letter to him, who received it with the utmost affection, and placed it in his breast; and after reading it said with delight to the brahmin, “O divinity! suffer not any anxiety; I will accompany you, and, having slain the evil spirits, will fulfil Rookmunee’s wishes.”
The brahmin was restored to confidence by these words; but Huri was occupied with anxious thoughts of Rookmunee.