{"id":2285,"date":"2013-07-13T01:40:36","date_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:40:36","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/?p=2285"},"modified":"2013-07-13T01:40:36","modified_gmt":"2013-07-13T01:40:36","slug":"13-vikramorvasie-or-hero-and-nymph-act-i-vol-05-translations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/01-works-of-sri-aurobindo\/03-cwsa\/05-translations\/13-vikramorvasie-or-hero-and-nymph-act-i-vol-05-translations","title":{"rendered":"-13_Vikramorvasie or Hero and Nymph – Act-I.htm"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n\n\n
\n

 <\/td>\n

\n

\nSection Three<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Kalidasa<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n
\nVikramorvasie<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nor<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe Hero and the Nymph<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n
\nCharacters<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

PURURAVAS<\/font>, son of Budha and Ila, grandson of the Moon, King<\/span><\/p>\n

\nof the world, reigning at Pratisthana.<\/span><\/p>\n

MANAVAKA<\/font>, a Brahmin, the King’s jester and companion.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLATAVYA<\/font>, Chamberlain of the King’s seraglio.<\/span><\/p>\n

CHITRARATH<\/font>, King of the Gandharvas, musicians of Heaven.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAYUS<\/font>, son of Pururavas.<\/span><\/p>\n

CHARIOTEER<\/font> of Pururavas.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTHE<\/font> QUEEN<\/font> AUSHINARIE<\/font>, wife of Pururavas and daughter of the<\/span><\/p>\n

King of Kashi.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nURVASIE<\/font>, an Apsara or Nymph of Heaven, born from the thigh<\/span><\/p>\n

of Narayan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNIPUNIKA<\/font>, the Queen’s handmaid.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

SATYAVATIE<\/font>, a hermitess.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nA HUNTRESS.<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nGIRLS<\/font>, attendant on the King; AMAZONS<\/font>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nAct I<\/font><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nINVOCATION<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe in Vedanta by the Wise pronounced<\/span><\/p>\n

Sole Being, who the upper and under world<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPervading overpasses, whom alone<\/span><\/p>\n

The name of God describes, here applicable<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd pregnant \u2014 crippled else of force, to others<\/span><\/p>\n

Perverted \u2014 and the Yogins who aspire<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo rise above the human death, break in<\/span><\/p>\n

Breath, soul and senses passionately seeking<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Immutable, and in their own
\nhearts find, \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

He, easily by work and faith and love<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAttainable, ordain your heavenly weal.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAfter the invocation the Actor-Manager speaks.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMANAGER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nNo need of many words.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nHe speaks into the greenroom.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nHither, good friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe Assistant-Manager enters.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nASSISTANT <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nBehold me.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMANAGER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nOften has the audience seen<\/span><\/p>\n

Old dramas by our earlier poets staged;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTherefore today a piece as yet unknown<\/span><\/p>\n

I will present them, Vikram and the Nymph.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRemind our actors then most heedfully<\/span><\/p>\n

To con their parts, as if on each success<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDepended.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 125<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nASSISTANT <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nI shall do so.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nHe goes.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nMANAGER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nAnd now to you,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO noble audience, I bow down and pray,<\/span><\/p>\n

If not from kindliness to us your friends<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd caterers, yet from pride in the high name<\/span><\/p>\n

That graces this our plot, heedful attention,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGentles, to Vikramorvasie, the work<\/span><\/p>\n

Of Kalidasa.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nVOICES <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nHelp! O help, help, help!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhoever is on the side of Heaven, whoever<\/span><\/p>\n

Has passage through the paths of level air.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMANAGER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nWhat cry is this that breaks upon our prologue<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFrom upper worlds, most like the wail distressed<\/span><\/p>\n

Of ospreys, sad but sweet as moan of bees<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDrunken with honey in deep summer bloom,<\/span><\/p>\n

Or the low cry of distant cuckoo? or hear I<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWomen who move on Heaven’s azure stage<\/span><\/p>\n

Splendid with rows of seated Gods, and chant<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn airy syllables a liquid sweetness?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n(after some thought<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAh, now I have it. She who from the thigh<\/span><\/p>\n

Of the great tempted sage Narayan sprang<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRadiant, Heaven’s nymph, divinest Urvasie,<\/span><\/p>\n

In middle air from great Coilasa’s lord<\/span><\/p>\n

\nReturning, to the enemies of Heaven<\/span><\/p>\n

Is prisoner; therefore the sweet multitude<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf Apsaras send forth melodious cry<\/span><\/p>\n

Of pathos and complaint.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nHe goes.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 126<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\n
\nThe Nymphs of Heaven enter, Rambha, Menaka,<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nSahajanya and many others.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nNYMPHS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHelp, help, O help!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhoever is on the side of Heaven, whoever<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHas passage through the paths of level air.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Pururavas enters suddenly and with speed<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nin a chariot with his charioteer.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nEnough of lamentation! I am here,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIlian Pururavas, from grandiose worship<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIn Surya’s brilliant house returned. To me,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO women! say ‘gainst what ye cry for rescue.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nRescue from Titan violence, O King.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd what has Titan violence to you<\/span><\/p>\n

\nImmortal done of fault, O Heaven’s women?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMENAKA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nKing, hear us.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSpeak.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMENAKA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nOur sister, our dear sister!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe ornament of Eden and its joy!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhom Indra by asceticism alarmed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMade use of like a lovely sword to kill<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSpiritual longings, the eternal refutation<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf Luxmie’s pride of beauty, Urvasie!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nReturning from Cuvera’s halls, O she<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 127<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nWas met, was taken. Cayshy, that dire Titan,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho in Hiranyapoor exalts his house,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBeheld her and in great captiving hands<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRavished, Chitralekha and Urvasie.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWe saw them captive haled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSay, if you know,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat region of the air received that traitor?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSAHAJANYA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nNorth-east he fled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nTherefore expel dismay.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI go to bring you back your loved one, if<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAttempt can do it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO worthy this of thee!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO from the Lunar splendour truly sprung!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nWhere will you wait my advent, nymphs of Heaven?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nNYMPHS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nUpon this summit called the Peak of Gold,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO King, we shall expect thee.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nCharioteer,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUrge on my horses to the far north-east;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGallop through Heaven like the wind.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHARIOTEER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\n‘Tis done.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 128<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO nobly driven! With speed like this I could<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO’ertake Heaven’s eagle though he fled before me<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith tempest in his vans. How much more then<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis proud transgressor against Heaven’s King!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLook, charioteer, beneath my sudden car<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe crumbling thunder-clouds fly up like dust,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd the wheel’s desperate rotation seems<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo make another set of whirling spokes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe plumes upon the horses’ heads rise tall,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMotionless like a picture, and the wind<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf our tremendous speed has made the flag<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFrom staff to airborne end straight as if pointing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThey go out in their chariot.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSisters, the King is gone. Direct we then<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOur steps to the appointed summit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMENAKA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHasten,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO hasten.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nALL <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHasten, O hasten, come, come, come.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

They ascend the hill.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nAnd O, will he indeed avail to draw<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis stab out of our hearts?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMENAKA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nDoubt it not, Rambha.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nNo, Menaka, for not so easily<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAre Titans overthrown, my sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 129<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nMENAKA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nRambha,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRemember this is he whom Heaven’s King,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhen battle raised its dreadful face, has called<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith honour from the middle world of men, <\/span><\/p>\n

\nSet in his armed van, and conquered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHere too<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI hope that he will conquer.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSAHAJANYA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nJoy, sisters, joy!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLook where the chariot of the moon appears,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Ilian’s great deer-banner rushing up<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFrom the horizon. He would not return<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith empty hands, sisters. We can rejoice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAll gaze upwards. Pururavas enters in his chariot<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

with his charioteer; Urvasie, her eyes closed in terror,<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nsupported on the right arm of Chitralekha.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nCourage, sweet sister, courage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO thou too lovely!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRecall thy soul. The enemies of Heaven<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCan injure thee no more; that danger’s over.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe Thunderer’s puissance still pervades the worlds.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO then uplift these long and lustrous eyes<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLike sapphire lilies in a pool when dawn<\/span><\/p>\n

\nComes smiling.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nWhy does she not yet, alas!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRecover her sweet reason? Only her sighs<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRemind us she is living.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 130<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nToo rudely, lady,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHas thy sweet sister been alarmed. For look!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat tremblings of the heart are here revealed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWatch the quick rise and fall incessantly<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat lift between these large magnificent breasts<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe flowers of Eden.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSister, O put by<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis panic. Fie! thou art no Apsara.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nTerror will not give up his envied seat<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOn her luxurious bosom soft as flowers;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe tremors in her raiment’s edge and little<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHeavings and flutterings between her two breasts<\/span><\/p>\n

\nConfess him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Urvasie begins to recover.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n(with joy<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou art fortunate, Chitralekha!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThy sister to her own bright nature comes<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOnce more. So have I seen a glorious night<\/span><\/p>\n

\nDelivered out of darkness by the moon,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNocturnal fire break through with crests of brightness<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIts prison of dim smoke. Her beauty, waking<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFrom swoon and almost rescued, to my thoughts<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBrings Ganges as I saw her once o’erwhelmed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith roar and ruin of her banks, race wild,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThickening, then gradually from that turmoil<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGrow clear, emerging into golden calm.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nBe glad, my sister, O my Urvasie. <\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor vanquished are the accursed Titans, foes<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf the Divine, antagonists of Heaven.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 131<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nURVASIE<\/font> (opening her eyes<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nVanquished? By Indra then whose soul can see<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAcross the world.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nNot Indra, but this King<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhose puissance equals Indra.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>(looking at Pururavas<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO Titans,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nYou did me kindness!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS<\/font> (gazing at Urvasie<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd reason if the nymphs<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTempting Narayan Sage drew back ashamed<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhen they beheld this wonder from his thigh<\/span><\/p>\n

\nStarting. And yet I cannot think of her<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCreated by a withered hermit cold:<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBut rather in the process beautiful<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf her creation Heaven’s enchanting moon<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTook the Creator’s place, or very Love<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGrown all one amorousness, or else the month<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf honey and its days deep-mined with bloom.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHow could an aged anchoret, dull and stale<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith poring over Scripture and oblivious<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo all this rapture of the senses, build<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA thing so lovely?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO my Chitralekha,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOur sisters?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nThis great prince who slew our fear<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCan tell us.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 132<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSad of heart they wait, O beauty!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor with thy sweet ineffugable eyes<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWho only once was blessed, even he without thee<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCannot abstain from pining. How then these<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOriginal affections sister-sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

\nRooted in thee?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHow courteous is his tongue<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd full of noble kindness! Yet what wonder?<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNectar is natural to the moon. O prince,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy heart’s in haste to see once more my loved ones.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nLo, where upon the Peak of Gold they stand<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGazing towards thy face, and with such eyes<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf rapture as when men behold the moon<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEmerging from eclipse.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO sister, see!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE<\/font> (looking longingly at the King<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI do and drink in with my eyes my partner<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf grief and pleasure.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA<\/font> (with a smile; significantly<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSister, who is he?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHe? Oh! Rambha I meant and all our friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHe comes with victory. Urvasie’s beside him<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd Chitralekha. Now indeed this King<\/span><\/p>\n

\nLooks glorious like the moon, when near the twin<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 133<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBright asterisms that frame best his light.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nMENAKA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nIn both ways are we blest, our lost dear one<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBrought back to us, this noble King returned<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUnwounded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nSAHAJANYA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSister, true. Not easily<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAre Titans conquered.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nCharioteer, descend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWe have arrived the summit.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHARIOTEER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nAs the King<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCommands.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO I am blest in this descent<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUpon unevenness. O happy shock<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThat threw her great hips towards me. All her sweet shoulder<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPressed mine that thrilled and passioned to the touch.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE<\/font> (abashed<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMove yet a little farther to your side,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA<\/font> (smiling<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI cannot; there’s no room.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSisters,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis prince has helped us all. ‘Twere only grateful<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShould we descend and greet him.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 134<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nALL <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nLet us do it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

They all approach.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nStay, charioteer, the rush of hooves that she<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMarrying her sweet-browed eagerness with these<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMay, mingling with their passionate bosoms, clasp<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHer dearest, like the glory and bloom of spring<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHastening into the open arms of trees.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nNYMPHS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nHail to the King felicitous who comes<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith conquest in his wheels.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nTo you, O nymphs,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAs fortunate in your sister’s rescued arms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nUrvasie descends from the chariot<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

supported on Chitralekha’s arm.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO sisters, sisters, take me to your bosoms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nAll rush upon her and embrace her.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nCloser, O closer! hurt me with your breasts!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI never hoped to see again your sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFamiliar faces.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nRAMBHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nProtect a million ages,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMonarch, all continents and every sea!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Noise within.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHARIOTEER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nMy lord, I hear a rumour in the east<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd mighty speed of chariots. Lo, one bright<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith golden armlet, looming down from Heaven<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 135<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nLike a huge cloud with lightning on its wrist,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nStreams towards us.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nNYMPHS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nChitrarath! ’tis Chitrarath.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRARATH<\/font> (approaches the King with great respect<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHail to the Indra-helper! Fortunate<\/span><\/p>\n

\nPururavas, whose prowess is so ample,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHeaven’s King has grown its debtor.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nThe Gandharva!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWelcome, my bosom’s friend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThey clasp each other’s hands.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhat happy cause<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf coming?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRARATHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nIndra had heard from Narad’s lips<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOf Urvasie by Titan Cayshy haled.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHe bade us to her rescue. We midway<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHeard heavenly bards chanting thy victory,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd hitherward have turned our march. On, friend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWith us to Maghavan and bear before thee<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis lovely offering. Great thy service done<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo Heaven’s high King; for she who was of old<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNarayan’s chief munificence to Indra,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nIs now thy gift, Pururavas. Thy arm<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHas torn her from a Titan’s grasp.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nComrade,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nNever repeat it; for if we who are<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOn Heaven’s side, o’erpower the foes of Heaven,<\/span><\/p>\n

\n‘Tis Indra’s puissance, not our own. Does not<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe echo of the lion’s dangerous roar<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 136<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nReverberating through the mountain glens<\/span><\/p>\n

\nScatter with sound the elephants? We, O friend,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAre even such echoes.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRARATHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nThis fits with thy great nature,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nFor modesty was ever valour’s crown.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nNot now nor hence is’t seasonable for me,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nComrade, to meet the King of Sacrifice.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou, therefore, to the mighty presence lead<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThis beauty.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRARATHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nAs thou wilt. With me to Heaven!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE<\/font> (aside to Chitralekha<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI have no courage to address my saviour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSister, wilt be my voice to him?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA<\/font> (approaching Pururavas<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy lord,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nUrvasie thus petitions \u2014<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nWhat commands<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe lady?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nShe would have thy gracious leave<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo bear into her far immortal heavens<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThe glory of the great Pururavas<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd dwell with it as with a sister.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS<\/font> (sorrowfully<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nGo then;<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 137<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nBut go for longer meeting.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe Gandharvas and Nymphs<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

soar up into the sky.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nSister, stay!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy chain is in this creeper caught. Release it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA<\/font> (looking at the King with a smile<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nOh, yes, indeed, a sad entanglement!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nI fear you will not easily be loosed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nDo not mock me, sister. Pray you, untwine it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHITRALEKHA <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nCome, let me try. I’ll do my possible<\/span><\/p>\n

\nTo help you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

She busies herself with the chain.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE<\/font> (smiling<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nSister, think what thou hast promised<\/span><\/p>\n

\nEven afterwards.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS<\/font> (aside<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nCreeper, thou dost me friendship;<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou for one moment holdest from the skies<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHer feet desirable. O lids of beauty!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO vision of her half-averted face!<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nUrvasie, released, looks at the King, then with a sigh<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

at her sisters soaring up into the sky.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHARIOTEER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n

\nO King, thy shaft with the wild voice of storm<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHas hurled the Titans in the salt far sea,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAvenging injured Heaven, and now creeps back<\/span><\/p>\n

\nInto the quiver, like a mighty snake<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

Page \u2013 138<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\nSeeking its lair.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nTherefore bring near the chariot,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWhile I ascend.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nCHARIOTEER <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\n‘Tis done.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThe King mounts the chariot.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS <\/font>
\n<\/span> <\/p>\n

\nShake loose the reins.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nURVASIE<\/font> (gazing at the King, with a sigh, aside<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nMy benefactor! my deliverer!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nShall I not see thee more?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nShe goes out with Chitralekha.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n <\/p>\n

\nPURURAVAS<\/font> (looking after Urvasie<\/i>)<\/span><\/p>\n

\nO Love! O Love!<\/span><\/p>\n

\nThou mak’st men hot for things impossible<\/span><\/p>\n

\nAnd mad for dreams. She soars up to the heavens,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nHer father’s middle stride, and draws my heart<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBy force out of my bosom. It goes with her,<\/span><\/p>\n

\nBleeding, as when a wild swan through the sky<\/span><\/p>\n

\nWings far her flight, there dangles in her beak<\/span><\/p>\n

\nA dripping fibre from the lotus torn.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\nThey go.<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Page \u2013 139<\/font><\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n

\n

 <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

  Section Three Kalidasa     Vikramorvasie or The Hero and the Nymph       Characters   PURURAVAS, son of Budha and Ila, grandson…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[48],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2285","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-05-translations","wpcat-48-id"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2285","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2285"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2285\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2285"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2285"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/worksofthemotherandsriaurobindo.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2285"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}