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296 These are the unburnt portions of) their bodies. Here also are their children-these oppressors of foes--with their mother I Let these be now received with due honours. After the completion of the first rites in honour of the dead, let the virtuous Pandu, who had all along been the supporter of the dignity of the Kurus, have the first annual Sraddha (sapindakarana) performed with a view to installing him formally among the Pitris.'

Vaisampayana continued, "The ascetics with Gukyakas having said this unto the Kurus, instantly disappeared in the very sight of the people. And beholding the Rishis and the Siddhyas thus vanish in their sight like vapoury forms appearing and disappearing in the skies, the citizens filled with wonder returned to their homes."

Thus ends the hundred and twenty-sixth section in the Sambhava Parva of the Adi Parva.

Vaisampayana continued,"Dhritarashtra then said.--'O Vidura, celebrate the funeral ceremonies of that lion among kings-viz., Pandu, and of Madri also, in right royal style! For the good of their souls, distribute cattle, cloths, gems and diverse kinds of wealth, every one receiving as much as he asketh for. Make arrangements also for Kunti's performing the last rites of Madri in such a style as pleaseth her. And let Madri's body be so carefully wrapped up that neither the Sun nor Vayu (god of wind) may behold it! Lament not for the sinless Pandu ! He was a worthy king and bath left behind him five heroic sons equal unto the celestials themselves!'

Vaisa mpayana continued. "Then Vidura, O Bharata, saying, 'So be it,' in consultation with Bhishma, fixed upon a sacred spot for the funeral rites of Pandu. The family priests went out of the city without loss of time, carrying with them the blazing sacred fire fed with clarified butter and rendered fragrant therewith. Then friends, rela. tives, and adherents, wrapping it up in cloth, decked the body of the monarch with the flowers of the season and sprinkled various excellent perfumes over it. And they also decked the hearse itself with garlands and rich hangings. Then placing the covered body of the king with that of his queen on that excellent bier decked out so brightly, they caused it to be carried on human shoulders. With the white umbrella (of state) held over the hearse with waving yak-tails and