66697602-The-Ramayana-R-K-Narayan

performances but you have misused your powers and
attacked the very gods that gave you the power, and now
you pursue evil ways. Is there anyone who has conquered
the gods and lived continuously in that victory? Sooner or
later retribution has always come. Do not be contemptuous
of men or monkeys. Remember that you have never asked
for protection from human beings; remember also that Nandi
cursed you when you lifted the Kailas mountain, saying that
your end would come through a monkey; and later when you
attempted to molest Vedavathi, seizing her by the hair, did
she not curse you before jumping into fire, saying that one
day she would be reborn and be responsible for the end of
your island as well as your life?
“If you look deeply into the signs of the times, perhaps all
these three curses are working out. But maybe you could still
avoid disaster. Remember that as long as you keep Sita a
prisoner, you and your subjects will have no peace. Think of
Rama’s heritage, Dasaratha’s achievements, and all the
other glorious deeds of the members of the Ikshvahu race.
They are not ordinary men nor are the monkeys supporting
them mere monkeys. The gods have assumed that form,
only because you have had immunity from the gods
conferred on you. Now a word more. Release the goddess
you have imprisoned. And that will prove to be the most
meritorious achievement of your career.”
Ravana glared at his brother and said with a bitter laugh,