Raavana aimed deadly darts at him. But the eagle intercepted them all and with
his talons tore Raavana's flesh. The enraged Raakshasa despatched sharp,
serpent-like missiles against the bird.
The bird-hero was desparately wounded, but
fought on undauntedly while Seeta watched the unequal combat with beating heart and
tearful eyes. The sight of her made Jataayu all the fiercer in his attacks on Raavana. But
his years were telling on him and he felt he must gather all his strength for a supreme
attempt to conquer. Regardless of the wounds, he attacked Raavana fiercely and with his
wings broke off and threw down his jewelled crown and deprived him of his bow. He attacked
the chariot and killed the demon-faced mules and the charioteer and smashed the vehicle
into a thousand pieces. Raavana fell on the ground, still clutching Seeta. The elements
rejoiced to see Ravana fall. |
