RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN --CHAPTER 44, THE END OF THE QUEST

                                                RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN –CHAPTER 44

                                                                    THE END OF THE QUEST

Accompanied by Ganga, the king reached the ocean. And they came to the place below the earth. There his ancestors lay reduced to ashes.

They were washed by the holy waters.  Brahma came to the place. He said, “The 60,000 sons of Sagara have been freed from their evil fate. And there have been raised to the heaven. They will for long enjoy the bliss of Svarga. This Gana shall be a first-born daughter to you. She shall be known in the names you gave her: Ganga, Tripathaga, Divya, and Bhagirathi. Offer libations of water to the manes of your grandfathers. Your immediate forefathers were unable to accomplish their object. Amsuman tried but failed to bring Ganga down to earth. Dilipa tried in vain to bring Ganga down to earth. But you have been able to accomplish your vow. You are best of men. You have won highest glory ever given to mortals. Bathe in the sacred waters and rise pure. Don’t forget to offer libation of waters to your manes. I shall go back to my abode while you do the same.” Thus spoke Brahma and departed to his seat in Heaven.

Thereupon discharged his duties as the holy books lay down. He returned to his capital with enhanced lustre. He ruled his kingdom well and wisely. The world rejoiced when the king came back again.

Thus I have narrated to you, Rama, the episode of Ganga. All hail to you! Let us disperse. For the time of the evening prayers is close at hand. This narrative is of extraordinary virtue. It realises for you all your wishes—fame, length of years, offspring, and the highest heavens. You can recite this before the regenerate ones, Pitris and Devas. He who listens to this with attention will experience his sins falling away.  His days increase on earth and his glory.”