INTRODUCTION
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(VII. 103-8) stand in vivid contrast against the soft, though colourful tenderness of the dawn (XI. 1-3) intermingled with &rhgara-rasa. The CitrakUta (III. 46), the Suvela (XIII. 31-43), the RsyamUka (VI. 91-96), and the Mahendra (X. 44-50) mountains are described as suitable backdrops for the impending episodes. The pen pictures of the Pampa lake (VI. 73-85) and its surrounding woods serve as the excitants (Uddipana-vibhclva) of love in separation (Vipralambha-Srhgara) for Rama. The description of Lanka (XI. 3-37) is saturated with diverse shades of love and sex. The prosperity and beauty of Ayodhya during all seasons is emphasized in I. 5-8. Lively pen pictures of incidents in real life are not wanting either. Bharata’s march to Citraknta is particularly appealing in its pomp and awe. Janaka sends messengers to invite Dasaratha for Rama’s marriage with Sita, Ravapa holds consultations with his ministers (XII ff.), the commanders of Ravapa’s army see evil omens while marching out for fight (XVII. 9-10), Vibhlsana is dispatched by Rama to fetch Sits (XX. 9-13)—all these episodes are described in brief and rapid succession. The essential description of madhupana too occurs in Canto X. The description of the Asoka grove, though rather long-drawn (VIII. 59-66 and 131), is very picturesque and lustrous. In Cantos Ten and Eleven, moonrise (X. 67-70), early dawn (XI. 1-15) and sunrise (XL 16-31) are painted as backdrops to Eros. The activities of the monkeys in constructing the Bridge (XIII. 15-30) speak volumes for their vigour, vitality and enthusiasm. In III. 34-36 we find a detailed picture of the whole of crematorial apparatus and procedure. Vira being the principal sentiment, descriptions of fights are naturally numerous and frequent ; these are saturated with speed and force. (C/., V. 1-3, XIV. 23-53, 73-81, 82-87,88-112). These descriptions begin with the preparations for marching, including rituals. The enthusiasm of the demons is dampened by evil omens, yet they fight with all vehemence and wrath. The vehicles, the weapons and the actions of the warriors are described in vigorous and speedy brevity.
