The law of Karman is inexorable. Nobody can escape the fruit of actions done in the past. But one is exhorted to bear it patiently and bravely, keeping one's balance and without being swayed away by passions. Prince Vardhamana was leading an ideal life even as a householder, but at the age of twenty-eight he decided that it was then high time for him to renounce tfte world and fulfil the ambition cherished during the nrevious births. But it was an accepted convention that one must secure the permission of the elders before acceptinginitiation. He, therefore, approaches his elder brother for permission. Nandivardhana is shocked as
the request came soon after the death of the parents. But realising that his younger brother was nc ordinary mortal, he requested him to postpone his decision for two years. Prince Vardhamana readily and graciously conse.nted. Andindoingso, he set a very noble example to the whole world. Ever the great ones should observe the normal codes of conduct and discipline.