who all mounted in turn, and the procession began to form outside the city; all, whatever the object on which they were bent, were met by auspicious omens.
On the magnificent elephants were splendid canopies, wrought in a manner beyond all description. As the mighty elephants moved, the bells clanged
All the vehicles were like thunder from the clouds in the grateful month of Sâwan. And other vehicles were there of many kinds; elegant palankins and sedans and coaches, wherein were seated companies of noble Brâhmans, incarnations as it were of all the hymns of the Veda. The genealogists and bards and minstrels and rhapsodists were mounted on other cars according to their rank; while mules and camels and oxen of every breed were laden with all sorts of baggage; there were also millions of kahârs with burdens slung across their shoulders; but who could enumerate such an endless list of things and the crowd of servants, each with his own set of appliances.
Dohâ 307.
All were glad and fearless of heart, and were quivering with excitement in every limb, saying: “When shall we feast our eyes with the sight of the two heroes, Râma and Lakshman?”
Chaupâi.
The elephants’ bells clanged with a fearful din; on all sides there was a creaking of wheels and a neighing of horses; the drums would drown a tempest’s roar, and no one could hear himself speak or any one else. At the king’s gate was such an enormous crowd that the stone pavement was all trodden into dust. Women mounted on the upper story viewed the sight with festal torches and salvers in their hands, and carolled melodious songs in an ecstasy of joy beyond description. Then Sumanta made ready two chariots and yoked them with steeds that would outrun the horses of the Sun, and brought them in all their beauty before the king—not Sâradâ herself could do them justice—the one was for the royal retinue, but the other was still more splendid.
On the magnificent elephants were splendid canopies, wrought in a manner beyond all description. As the mighty elephants moved, the bells clanged
All the vehicles were like thunder from the clouds in the grateful month of Sâwan. And other vehicles were there of many kinds; elegant palankins and sedans and coaches, wherein were seated companies of noble Brâhmans, incarnations as it were of all the hymns of the Veda. The genealogists and bards and minstrels and rhapsodists were mounted on other cars according to their rank; while mules and camels and oxen of every breed were laden with all sorts of baggage; there were also millions of kahârs with burdens slung across their shoulders; but who could enumerate such an endless list of things and the crowd of servants, each with his own set of appliances.
Dohâ 307.
All were glad and fearless of heart, and were quivering with excitement in every limb, saying: “When shall we feast our eyes with the sight of the two heroes, Râma and Lakshman?”
Chaupâi.
The elephants’ bells clanged with a fearful din; on all sides there was a creaking of wheels and a neighing of horses; the drums would drown a tempest’s roar, and no one could hear himself speak or any one else. At the king’s gate was such an enormous crowd that the stone pavement was all trodden into dust. Women mounted on the upper story viewed the sight with festal torches and salvers in their hands, and carolled melodious songs in an ecstasy of joy beyond description. Then Sumanta made ready two chariots and yoked them with steeds that would outrun the horses of the Sun, and brought them in all their beauty before the king—not Sâradâ herself could do them justice—the one was for the royal retinue, but the other was still more splendid.
Dohâ 308.
Thus the king first caused Vasishta to mount, and then himself ascended, with his thoughts fixed upon Hara, his guru, Gauri, and Ganes.
Chaupâi.
By Vasishta’s side the king shone forth as Purandara beside Vrihaspati. After performing every ceremony prescribed either by family usage or the Veda, and inspecting whatever had been done, he sallied forth to the blast of the conch-shell, after obtaining the permission of his guru, and with his thoughts fixed on Râma. The beneficent gods rejoiced to see the procession and rained down flowers. There was a confused uproar, horses neighing, elephants trumpeting, and drums beating both in the sky and on the line of march. Women and goddesses alike broke out in songs of joy, while tuneful clarions played in sweet accord.
There was an indescribable clamour of bells, both great and small. The foot soldiers leaped and danced as if challenging attack; the jesters practised all kinds of buffoonery, provoking laughter with facetious songs.
Dohâ 309.
Gallant youths make their steeds curvet to the measured beat of tabors and kettledrums, and accomplished dancers note with surprise that they never make a step out of time.
Chaupâi.
But it is useless attempting to describe the procession. Every omen that occurred was fair and auspicious. On the left side a blue-necked jay was picking up food as if to announce the very highest good fortune; on a fair field on the right were a crow and a mangân in the sight of all; a grateful breeze breathed soft and cool and fragrant; a woman was seen with a pitcher and child; a fox showed himself winding about; and in front a cow was suckling its calf; a herd of deer came out on the right, an indication of everything good; a Brâhmani-kite promised all success; also a syâma bird perched on a tree to the left; a man was met bearing curds and fish; and two learned Brâhmans with books in their hands.
Thus the king first caused Vasishta to mount, and then himself ascended, with his thoughts fixed upon Hara, his guru, Gauri, and Ganes.
Chaupâi.
By Vasishta’s side the king shone forth as Purandara beside Vrihaspati. After performing every ceremony prescribed either by family usage or the Veda, and inspecting whatever had been done, he sallied forth to the blast of the conch-shell, after obtaining the permission of his guru, and with his thoughts fixed on Râma. The beneficent gods rejoiced to see the procession and rained down flowers. There was a confused uproar, horses neighing, elephants trumpeting, and drums beating both in the sky and on the line of march. Women and goddesses alike broke out in songs of joy, while tuneful clarions played in sweet accord.
There was an indescribable clamour of bells, both great and small. The foot soldiers leaped and danced as if challenging attack; the jesters practised all kinds of buffoonery, provoking laughter with facetious songs.
Dohâ 309.
Gallant youths make their steeds curvet to the measured beat of tabors and kettledrums, and accomplished dancers note with surprise that they never make a step out of time.
Chaupâi.
But it is useless attempting to describe the procession. Every omen that occurred was fair and auspicious. On the left side a blue-necked jay was picking up food as if to announce the very highest good fortune; on a fair field on the right were a crow and a mangân in the sight of all; a grateful breeze breathed soft and cool and fragrant; a woman was seen with a pitcher and child; a fox showed himself winding about; and in front a cow was suckling its calf; a herd of deer came out on the right, an indication of everything good; a Brâhmani-kite promised all success; also a syâma bird perched on a tree to the left; a man was met bearing curds and fish; and two learned Brâhmans with books in their hands.
Dohâ 310.
Every good and auspicious omen, and every bestower of desired reward, seemed all to have met at once as if to verify themselves.
Chaupâi.
Every good and auspicious omen was ready at hand for him whose glorious son was the incarnate God, a bridegroom like Râma, matched with such a bride as Sîtâ, and with the pious Dasarath and Janak for the two parents. When they heard of the marriage, all the good omens began to dance and say: “Now at last the Creator has really made us to be what our name denotes.” In this manner the procession set forth with noise of horses and elephants and beat of drums. When Janak, the glory of the Solar race, heard of its approach, he had all the rivers bridged, and at different stages had convenient rest-houses erected, which vied in splendour with the city of heaven and were supplied with everything that one could desire, beds, food and linen. Ever discovering some new charm, all the travellers forgot their own home.
Dohâ 311.
When it was known that the procession was close at hand, and the beating of the drums was heard, a deputation went out to meet it, with elephants and chariots and foot and horse.
Beauteous golden vases and trays and salvers and costly dishes of every kind, laden with cakes as sweet as nectar and of indescribable variety, with much luscious fruit and, in short, everything of the best, did the king in his gladness send as an offering. Ornaments, wearing apparel, jewels of all kinds, birds, deer, horses, elephants, carriages of every description, well-omened spices, delicious perfumes, these, too, did the king send, and there was a train of porters with their baskets full of curds and parched rice and other light entremets. When the deputation saw the wedding guests, their soul was full of rapture and their body quivered with excitement; while the guests were no less charmed by the preparations made for their reception and beat their drums.
Every good and auspicious omen, and every bestower of desired reward, seemed all to have met at once as if to verify themselves.
Chaupâi.
Every good and auspicious omen was ready at hand for him whose glorious son was the incarnate God, a bridegroom like Râma, matched with such a bride as Sîtâ, and with the pious Dasarath and Janak for the two parents. When they heard of the marriage, all the good omens began to dance and say: “Now at last the Creator has really made us to be what our name denotes.” In this manner the procession set forth with noise of horses and elephants and beat of drums. When Janak, the glory of the Solar race, heard of its approach, he had all the rivers bridged, and at different stages had convenient rest-houses erected, which vied in splendour with the city of heaven and were supplied with everything that one could desire, beds, food and linen. Ever discovering some new charm, all the travellers forgot their own home.
Dohâ 311.
When it was known that the procession was close at hand, and the beating of the drums was heard, a deputation went out to meet it, with elephants and chariots and foot and horse.
Beauteous golden vases and trays and salvers and costly dishes of every kind, laden with cakes as sweet as nectar and of indescribable variety, with much luscious fruit and, in short, everything of the best, did the king in his gladness send as an offering. Ornaments, wearing apparel, jewels of all kinds, birds, deer, horses, elephants, carriages of every description, well-omened spices, delicious perfumes, these, too, did the king send, and there was a train of porters with their baskets full of curds and parched rice and other light entremets. When the deputation saw the wedding guests, their soul was full of rapture and their body quivered with excitement; while the guests were no less charmed by the preparations made for their reception and beat their drums.
Doha 312.
For a little they joined their ranks and marched in their joy as one body for the sake of company; like two oceans of bliss that had burst their bounds and come together,
Chaupdi.
The nymphs of heaven rained down flowers and sang, the glad gods beat their drums. The offerings were all set out before the king with a humble and affectionate address. The king graciously accepted them and bestowed them in charity on the poor. Then with religious honours and hymns of praise they conducted him to the guest-chambers. The cloths spread as carpets for king Dasarath to tread upon were so gorgeous that the god of wealth on seeing them could boast no longer. The gods rained down flowers and shouted Victory, Victory. The apartments assigned were most beautiful and supplied with every kind of comfort. When Sita knew that the procession had arrived in the city, she manifested her greatness to a slight extent, and with thoughtful heart called up the eight Siddhis, or wonder-working spirits, and sent them to arrange for the king’s reception.
Doha 313.
Obedient to her command, they repaired to the reception-hall, taking with them every kind of luxury and comfort and all the joys and delights of heaven,
Chaupdi.
Each guest on going to see his apartment found it a veritable paradise; no one, however, had an inkling of the mysterious power that had been exerted but took it all as Janak’s doing. Rama alone recognized the influence of Sita and rejoiced at this proof of her love. When the two brothers heard of their
For a little they joined their ranks and marched in their joy as one body for the sake of company; like two oceans of bliss that had burst their bounds and come together,
Chaupdi.
The nymphs of heaven rained down flowers and sang, the glad gods beat their drums. The offerings were all set out before the king with a humble and affectionate address. The king graciously accepted them and bestowed them in charity on the poor. Then with religious honours and hymns of praise they conducted him to the guest-chambers. The cloths spread as carpets for king Dasarath to tread upon were so gorgeous that the god of wealth on seeing them could boast no longer. The gods rained down flowers and shouted Victory, Victory. The apartments assigned were most beautiful and supplied with every kind of comfort. When Sita knew that the procession had arrived in the city, she manifested her greatness to a slight extent, and with thoughtful heart called up the eight Siddhis, or wonder-working spirits, and sent them to arrange for the king’s reception.
Doha 313.
Obedient to her command, they repaired to the reception-hall, taking with them every kind of luxury and comfort and all the joys and delights of heaven,
Chaupdi.
Each guest on going to see his apartment found it a veritable paradise; no one, however, had an inkling of the mysterious power that had been exerted but took it all as Janak’s doing. Rama alone recognized the influence of Sita and rejoiced at this proof of her love. When the two brothers heard of their
Sorathd 29.
Said the damsels to one another with streaming eyes and quivering body: “Friends, the two kings are of such boundless religious merit that for their sake Mahadeva will bring it all about.”
Chaupdi.
In like manner they all expressed their desire, while their full heart overflowed with rapture. When the kings, who had come as Sita’s suitors, saw the brothers, they all rejoiced and returned to their own homes extolling Rama’s high and spotless fame. In this fashion several days were spent, to the joy alike of citizens and guests. At length the auspicious day arrived, in the cold season, in the pleasant month of Agahn. The Creator himself had carefully fixed the date, when the sign of the zodiac, the age of the moon, the conjunction of the stars and the day of the week were one and all propitious. Of this he sent word through Narad, and it was the very same that Janak’s wise men had calculated. All the people on hearing this fact declared their astrologers to be very gods.
Doha 318.
It was towards sunset, the clearest and most delightful hour of the day, that the Brahmans apprized Videha’s king that the auspicious time had arrived.
Chaupdi.
The monarch cried to the family priest: “What is now the cause of delay?” At once Satanand summoned the ministers, who all came bearing festal vases. Conches, drums, and tabors sounded; all decked their vases in auspicious wise; graceful damsels sang songs, and holy Brahmans murmured Vedic texts. In this manner they went with all ceremony to the visitors’ camp, and on beholding the king of Kosala’s retinue it seemed to them that Indra was of much less glory. “The hour has come, be pleased to start.” At this the drums gave a thundering beat. After consulting his guru and performing the family rites, the king and the saint sallied forth with all their host.
Said the damsels to one another with streaming eyes and quivering body: “Friends, the two kings are of such boundless religious merit that for their sake Mahadeva will bring it all about.”
Chaupdi.
In like manner they all expressed their desire, while their full heart overflowed with rapture. When the kings, who had come as Sita’s suitors, saw the brothers, they all rejoiced and returned to their own homes extolling Rama’s high and spotless fame. In this fashion several days were spent, to the joy alike of citizens and guests. At length the auspicious day arrived, in the cold season, in the pleasant month of Agahn. The Creator himself had carefully fixed the date, when the sign of the zodiac, the age of the moon, the conjunction of the stars and the day of the week were one and all propitious. Of this he sent word through Narad, and it was the very same that Janak’s wise men had calculated. All the people on hearing this fact declared their astrologers to be very gods.
Doha 318.
It was towards sunset, the clearest and most delightful hour of the day, that the Brahmans apprized Videha’s king that the auspicious time had arrived.
Chaupdi.
The monarch cried to the family priest: “What is now the cause of delay?” At once Satanand summoned the ministers, who all came bearing festal vases. Conches, drums, and tabors sounded; all decked their vases in auspicious wise; graceful damsels sang songs, and holy Brahmans murmured Vedic texts. In this manner they went with all ceremony to the visitors’ camp, and on beholding the king of Kosala’s retinue it seemed to them that Indra was of much less glory. “The hour has come, be pleased to start.” At this the drums gave a thundering beat. After consulting his guru and performing the family rites, the king and the saint sallied forth with all their host.
But not Sâradâ herself could do justice to the noble steed on which Râma rode. Sankara was enchanted with its beauty, and congratulated himself on having fifteen eyes. When Hari affectionately gazed on Râma, he and Lakshmi were both equally charmed; while Brahma rejoiced to behold his beauty, and regretted that he had only eight eyes. Kârtikeya exulted greatly that in the matter of eyes he was half as well off again as Brahma. When wise Indra looked at Râma he thought Gautama’s curse a great blessing; and all the gods broke out in Indra’s praise, saying: “To-day there is no one like him.” All heaven was delighted at the sight of Râma, and there was joy above measure in the court of both the kings.
There was exceeding joy in both royal courts; the welkin resounded with multitudinous kettledrums; the gods rained down flowers and shouted in their joy: “Glory, glory, glory to Raghu’s noble son.” In this manner, when they learnt that the procession was approaching, all sorts of music began to play, and the queen gave orders to her handmaids to prepare the auspicious materials for the lustral rite.
With many lights and torches and festal preparations of every kind, a body of graceful dames proceeded joyously to celebrate the lustral rite.
With fawn-like eyes and faces of moon-like brightness, each one was beautiful enough to rob Rati of all self-conceit. Attired in costly garments of different colours, covered all over with ornaments and rendered beautiful in every limb, they sang more melodiously than the kokil to the music of the bells on their wrists and waist and feet, as they moved with all the undulating grace of a wild elephant. All kinds of music played, and there were rejoicings both in heaven and in the city. Indrâni, Sâradâ, Lakshmi and Bhavâni, the wisest of all the queens of heaven, assumed the disguise of women, and flocked to the king’s seraglio, singing delightfully with divine voices; and for joy there was no one who recognized them.
There was exceeding joy in both royal courts; the welkin resounded with multitudinous kettledrums; the gods rained down flowers and shouted in their joy: “Glory, glory, glory to Raghu’s noble son.” In this manner, when they learnt that the procession was approaching, all sorts of music began to play, and the queen gave orders to her handmaids to prepare the auspicious materials for the lustral rite.
With many lights and torches and festal preparations of every kind, a body of graceful dames proceeded joyously to celebrate the lustral rite.
With fawn-like eyes and faces of moon-like brightness, each one was beautiful enough to rob Rati of all self-conceit. Attired in costly garments of different colours, covered all over with ornaments and rendered beautiful in every limb, they sang more melodiously than the kokil to the music of the bells on their wrists and waist and feet, as they moved with all the undulating grace of a wild elephant. All kinds of music played, and there were rejoicings both in heaven and in the city. Indrâni, Sâradâ, Lakshmi and Bhavâni, the wisest of all the queens of heaven, assumed the disguise of women, and flocked to the king’s seraglio, singing delightfully with divine voices; and for joy there was no one who recognized them.
In their ecstatic joy as they went to receive the bridegroom, with melodious song and sweet music, who could tell who was who? The gods showered down flowers and everything was delightful. As they gazed upon the bridegroom, the source of bliss, they were all glad of heart, their lotus eyes overflowed with tears and their every limb quivered with rapture.
The joy of Sîtâ’s mother on beholding Râma’s gallant appearance was more than a thousand Sâradâs and Seshnâgs could tell in a hundred ages.
Restraining her tears out of regard for the auspiciousness of the event, the queen with gladness of heart performed the lustral rite, and diligently completed the entire ceremony in accordance with Vedic prescription and family usage. The five kinds of music were accompanied by festal chanting, and rich carpets of different sorts were spread upon the ground. After the lustral rite and the oblation Râma proceeded to the pavilion. So great was the splendour and magnificence of Daśaratha and his retinue that Indra was put to shame by it. From time to time the gods rained down flowers, while the Brahmans repeated the appropriate propitiatory texts. There was such jubilation on the earth and in heaven that no one could hear himself speak, much less anyone else. In this manner Râma entered the pavilion, where the libation was offered, and he was conducted to his throne.
The joy of Sîtâ’s mother on beholding Râma’s gallant appearance was more than a thousand Sâradâs and Seshnâgs could tell in a hundred ages.
Restraining her tears out of regard for the auspiciousness of the event, the queen with gladness of heart performed the lustral rite, and diligently completed the entire ceremony in accordance with Vedic prescription and family usage. The five kinds of music were accompanied by festal chanting, and rich carpets of different sorts were spread upon the ground. After the lustral rite and the oblation Râma proceeded to the pavilion. So great was the splendour and magnificence of Daśaratha and his retinue that Indra was put to shame by it. From time to time the gods rained down flowers, while the Brahmans repeated the appropriate propitiatory texts. There was such jubilation on the earth and in heaven that no one could hear himself speak, much less anyone else. In this manner Râma entered the pavilion, where the libation was offered, and he was conducted to his throne.
When the bridegroom was seated on the throne and the lustral rite was performed, all rejoiced at the sight, scattering around him jewels and raiment and ornaments in profusion, while women sang festal songs. Brahma and all the other gods, disguised as noble Brahmans, witnessed the spectacle, and as they gazed on the glorious sun of the lotus race of Raghu, reckoned it the happiest moment of their life.
The barber and torchmaker and singers and dancers, who gathered up the offerings that had been scattered about Râma, bowed their heads and invoked blessings upon him from a heart that was bursting with joy.
Janak and Dasarath joined most affectionately in the observance of every custom, whether religious or secular; and the royal pair were so glorious a sight that the poet, searching wherewith to liken them and finding nothing, must acknowledge himself defeated and admit that they were comparable only to themselves. The gods beheld with delight the two fathers and rained down flowers and sang their praises: “Since Brahma first created the world, we have seen and heard of many marriages, but never till this day have we seen a match so perfect in all respects, and two such well-matched fathers.” At the sound of
At the sound of the huzzas and the minstrelsy and the recitation of the Veda and the auspicious chanting and the music, the all-wise gods were delighted and rained down flowers from the tree of paradise.
The barber and torchmaker and singers and dancers, who gathered up the offerings that had been scattered about Râma, bowed their heads and invoked blessings upon him from a heart that was bursting with joy.
Janak and Dasarath joined most affectionately in the observance of every custom, whether religious or secular; and the royal pair were so glorious a sight that the poet, searching wherewith to liken them and finding nothing, must acknowledge himself defeated and admit that they were comparable only to themselves. The gods beheld with delight the two fathers and rained down flowers and sang their praises: “Since Brahma first created the world, we have seen and heard of many marriages, but never till this day have we seen a match so perfect in all respects, and two such well-matched fathers.” At the sound of
At the sound of the huzzas and the minstrelsy and the recitation of the Veda and the auspicious chanting and the music, the all-wise gods were delighted and rained down flowers from the tree of paradise.
Chaupadî
The bride and bridegroom with measured paces performed the circumambulation, while all present feasted their adoring gaze on the spectacle. The beauty of the happy pair is not to be described; whatever comparison might be suggested would fall short of the reality. The lovely images of Râma and Sita were reflected in the jewelled pillars, and sparkled like incarnations of Kâmadeva and Rati, who had come to witness Râma's glorious wedding and, from mingled curiosity and bashfulness, at one moment showed themselves openly and at another retired out of sight. All the spectators were enraptured and, like Janak, forgot all about themselves. Joyously the saints bade them pace the circle round; the rite was accomplished and the marriage offerings made. Râma applied the vermilion to Sita's forehead, brilliant beyond all description; and his arm seemed like a serpent thirsting for ambrosia, as it decorated her moonlike face with the red powder that filled His lotus hand. Then by Vasishta's direction the bride and bridegroom took their seat together.
Chhand 48–51
The bride and bridegroom with measured paces performed the circumambulation, while all present feasted their adoring gaze on the spectacle. The beauty of the happy pair is not to be described; whatever comparison might be suggested would fall short of the reality. The lovely images of Râma and Sita were reflected in the jewelled pillars, and sparkled like incarnations of Kâmadeva and Rati, who had come to witness Râma's glorious wedding and, from mingled curiosity and bashfulness, at one moment showed themselves openly and at another retired out of sight. All the spectators were enraptured and, like Janak, forgot all about themselves. Joyously the saints bade them pace the circle round; the rite was accomplished and the marriage offerings made. Râma applied the vermilion to Sita's forehead, brilliant beyond all description; and his arm seemed like a serpent thirsting for ambrosia, as it decorated her moonlike face with the red powder that filled His lotus hand. Then by Vasishta's direction the bride and bridegroom took their seat together.
Chhand 48–51
When Râma and Jânaki took their seat, Dasarath's soul was rejoiced and his frame quivered with emotion, as again and again he fixed his gaze upon them and saw, as it were, his own virtue like the tree of paradise blossoming anew. There was rejoicing all over the world at the news of Râma's wedding; how can it be described? I have but one tongue in my head, while the joy had no bounds. Then Janak, having received Vasishta's order, provided all things necessary for the marriage ceremonial, and summoned the three maidens, Mândavi, Sruti-kirti, and Urmila. After affectionately performing every rite, the king gave first to Bharat in marriage the beautiful and accomplished daughter of Kusaketu. Then next, with all honour, Janak bestowed upon Lakshman Jânaki's lovely younger sister; and finally gave away to Ripu-sudan the bright-eyed and charming Sruti-kirti, no less amiable than beautiful. As bride and bridegroom modestly gazed on each other and noticed the contrast, they were glad of heart; while every one delightedly applauded the beauty of the scene, and the gods rained down flowers. All equally beautiful, though diverse in hue, they shone resplendent in the pavilion, as though the four states of life with their several lords had met in one living soul.
Dohâ 831
The king of Avadh gazed with delight on his four sons and their brides; as though that jewel of monarchs had in them realized the four methods of religion and the four cognate ends of life.
Dohâ 831
The king of Avadh gazed with delight on his four sons and their brides; as though that jewel of monarchs had in them realized the four methods of religion and the four cognate ends of life.
Chaupadî
All the princes were married with the same rites as I have described for Râma. The enormous dowry was beyond description; the whole pavilion was full of gold and jewels. Shawls, robes and silks of all kinds in the greatest profusion and of immense value, elephants, chariots, horses, men-servants, and cows with gilded horns and hoofs, as beautiful as the cow of plenty; things so many that no one could count them, nor credit their number if he had not seen them. At the sight the guardians of the world broke out into praises of the dowry, and Avadh's king received it all most graciously. To every one who asked was given whatever he desired, and what remained over was taken to the guests' quarters. Then with folded hands and bated breath Janak courteously entreated all the bridegroom's party.
Chhand 52–55
After courteously entreating all the marriage guests with high ceremony, gifts, apologies and compliments, he joyfully proceeded with much devotion to do his humble homage to the saintly throng. With bowed head he propitiated the gods, and thus, with hands clasped in prayer, addressed them all: “Gods and
Again and again did Sita gaze upon Rama with modest mien, but full of confidence at heart; and her eyes athirst with love outshone the fish in Kamadeva’s blazon.
Dark in hue and full of untaught grace, his beauty put to shame a myriad Loves; his lac-stained feet gleamed like some lotus, the haunt of bee-like saintly souls; his pure and lustrous yellow robe outshone the rising sun or lightning-flash; the little bells on his waist-belt made a delicious tinkling: long were his arms and clasped with glittering bangles; his yellow janeo set him off to perfection; his signet ring would ravish all hearts; lustrous were all his many wedding adornments and the stars and collars on his broad breast; across his shoulders a yellow scarf with fringe of gems and pearls; with lotus eyes and bright pendants from his ears and a face the very storehouse of beauty; lovely brows and charming nose, and on his forehead a most bewitching spot, while on his head the auspicious marriage-crown shone glorious with knotted pearls and gems.
All the princes were married with the same rites as I have described for Râma. The enormous dowry was beyond description; the whole pavilion was full of gold and jewels. Shawls, robes and silks of all kinds in the greatest profusion and of immense value, elephants, chariots, horses, men-servants, and cows with gilded horns and hoofs, as beautiful as the cow of plenty; things so many that no one could count them, nor credit their number if he had not seen them. At the sight the guardians of the world broke out into praises of the dowry, and Avadh's king received it all most graciously. To every one who asked was given whatever he desired, and what remained over was taken to the guests' quarters. Then with folded hands and bated breath Janak courteously entreated all the bridegroom's party.
Chhand 52–55
After courteously entreating all the marriage guests with high ceremony, gifts, apologies and compliments, he joyfully proceeded with much devotion to do his humble homage to the saintly throng. With bowed head he propitiated the gods, and thus, with hands clasped in prayer, addressed them all: “Gods and
Again and again did Sita gaze upon Rama with modest mien, but full of confidence at heart; and her eyes athirst with love outshone the fish in Kamadeva’s blazon.
Dark in hue and full of untaught grace, his beauty put to shame a myriad Loves; his lac-stained feet gleamed like some lotus, the haunt of bee-like saintly souls; his pure and lustrous yellow robe outshone the rising sun or lightning-flash; the little bells on his waist-belt made a delicious tinkling: long were his arms and clasped with glittering bangles; his yellow janeo set him off to perfection; his signet ring would ravish all hearts; lustrous were all his many wedding adornments and the stars and collars on his broad breast; across his shoulders a yellow scarf with fringe of gems and pearls; with lotus eyes and bright pendants from his ears and a face the very storehouse of beauty; lovely brows and charming nose, and on his forehead a most bewitching spot, while on his head the auspicious marriage-crown shone glorious with knotted pearls and gems.
The knotted gems and the crown and his comely person ravished all hearts; and not a woman or goddess, in heaven or earth, who did not break a blade of grass at the sight of his beauty. After scattering round about him jewels and raiment and adornments they perform the lustral rite, singing auspicious songs, while the gods rain down flowers, and bards, minstrels, and rhapsodists declare his glory. When the bride and bridegroom entered the marriage pavilion, great was the joy of the attendants, who with festive songs and in most loving wise began to perform the accustomed observances. Gauri herself taught Rama, and Sarada told Sita how to manage the mess of rice-milk; and all the ladies of the seraglio were so taken with the merry sport that they reckoned it the happiest moment of their lives. When Janaki saw in the gems on her fingers the reflection of the all-beautiful, she dared not move her eyes or lithesome arm for fear of losing his presence. The rapture of delight, the ecstasy of love surpassed all telling; only those happy dames could comprehend it who escorted the bride and bridegroom to the guest-house. Then might be heard on all sides blessings and great exultation in heaven and on earth and a universal shout of joy: “Long life to the four happy couples.”
Hermits, saints and sages, the gods too on beholding their lord, sounded their kettledrums and returned in gladness, each to his own realm, raining down flowers and crying “Victory, Victory.” Then the four princes with their brides approached their father, and such was the glory, the felicity, and the rapture that it seemed to overflow the court like a torrent.
Again there was a magnificent banquet, to which Janak sent and invited all the visitors. Carpets of richest stuff were spread as the king sallied forth with his sons. After reverently washing his guests’ feet, he seated them all according to their rank. First Janak bathed the feet of Avadh’s lord with a loving devotion past all telling; then he bathed Rama’s lotus feet, feet ever enshrined in Mahadeva’s heart; and, also with his own hands, bathed the feet of the three brothers, regarding them as Rama’s peers. To all the king assigned appropriate seats, and then gave his orders to the cooks, who with due ceremony set out the dishes, made all of jewels instead of leaves, and stitched with golden pins.
The quick and obsequious waiting-men passed round, and in a moment every guest was supplied with rice and condiments and fragrant butter, and everything luscious and savoury and nice.
After making the fire oblations, they began to eat, listening with delight the while to allusive songs. There were confections of many kinds, sweeter than nectar or than words can tell, which the well-trained waiters handed round, and such an infinite variety of sauces that no one could remember all their names, with food of the four kinds mentioned in the sacred books and an indescribable variety of each kind, and seasonings of the six flavours, and each flavour exhibited in a countless number of dishes. As the banquet proceeded, jests were bandied about in pleasant wise, and not a man or woman but heard his name brought in. Louder and broader grew the raillery of the festive hour, and the king and the whole assembly were moved to laughter as they listened. In this manner they all feasted, then punctiliously rinsed out the mouth:
Again there was a magnificent banquet, to which Janak sent and invited all the visitors. Carpets of richest stuff were spread as the king sallied forth with his sons. After reverently washing his guests’ feet, he seated them all according to their rank. First Janak bathed the feet of Avadh’s lord with a loving devotion past all telling; then he bathed Rama’s lotus feet, feet ever enshrined in Mahadeva’s heart; and, also with his own hands, bathed the feet of the three brothers, regarding them as Rama’s peers. To all the king assigned appropriate seats, and then gave his orders to the cooks, who with due ceremony set out the dishes, made all of jewels instead of leaves, and stitched with golden pins.
The quick and obsequious waiting-men passed round, and in a moment every guest was supplied with rice and condiments and fragrant butter, and everything luscious and savoury and nice.
After making the fire oblations, they began to eat, listening with delight the while to allusive songs. There were confections of many kinds, sweeter than nectar or than words can tell, which the well-trained waiters handed round, and such an infinite variety of sauces that no one could remember all their names, with food of the four kinds mentioned in the sacred books and an indescribable variety of each kind, and seasonings of the six flavours, and each flavour exhibited in a countless number of dishes. As the banquet proceeded, jests were bandied about in pleasant wise, and not a man or woman but heard his name brought in. Louder and broader grew the raillery of the festive hour, and the king and the whole assembly were moved to laughter as they listened. In this manner they all feasted, then punctiliously rinsed out the mouth:
And Janak in due form presented Dasarath and all his guests with pān, and the glorious king then retired to his own apartment.
There was ever some new rejoicing in the city, and the whole day and night seemed gone like a minute. At early dawn the best of monarchs woke, and mendicants began to chant his praises. As he gazed upon the gallant princes and their brides, the rapture of his soul was beyond all telling. After performing his morning devotions he went to his guru, with his heart full of love and exultation, and clasping his hands in prayer bowed before him and said with a voice of mellifluous sweetness: “Hearken, king of saints, it is by your favour that to-day my toils have been rewarded. Now, holy father, summon the Brahmans and present them all with cows with costly adornments.” On hearing these words the guru much applauded the king, and sent to summon the whole saintly throng.
Dohā 336.
Then came Yamadeva and Nārad and Vālmīki and Jābāli and Viśvāmitra and all the other great saints and ascetics.
The king threw himself upon the ground before them and worshipped them, and then conducted them to seats of honour. Next he sent for 400,000 cows, all as gentle and beautiful as the cow of paradise, and after decorating them in every possible way bestowed them with great joy upon the saints, with many a phrase of studied humility, declaring it to be the happiest day of his whole life. On receiving their blessing the king, the pride of the Solar race, rejoiced, and next sent for all the begging fraternity and gave them, according as each desired, gold, or apparel, or jewels, or horses, or elephants or chariots. They all left loudly telling and singing his praises: “Glory, glory, glory, to the lord of the Sun-god’s race.” Such were the rejoicings at Rāma’s wedding, beyond all that could be told even had I a thousand tongues.
There was ever some new rejoicing in the city, and the whole day and night seemed gone like a minute. At early dawn the best of monarchs woke, and mendicants began to chant his praises. As he gazed upon the gallant princes and their brides, the rapture of his soul was beyond all telling. After performing his morning devotions he went to his guru, with his heart full of love and exultation, and clasping his hands in prayer bowed before him and said with a voice of mellifluous sweetness: “Hearken, king of saints, it is by your favour that to-day my toils have been rewarded. Now, holy father, summon the Brahmans and present them all with cows with costly adornments.” On hearing these words the guru much applauded the king, and sent to summon the whole saintly throng.
Dohā 336.
Then came Yamadeva and Nārad and Vālmīki and Jābāli and Viśvāmitra and all the other great saints and ascetics.
The king threw himself upon the ground before them and worshipped them, and then conducted them to seats of honour. Next he sent for 400,000 cows, all as gentle and beautiful as the cow of paradise, and after decorating them in every possible way bestowed them with great joy upon the saints, with many a phrase of studied humility, declaring it to be the happiest day of his whole life. On receiving their blessing the king, the pride of the Solar race, rejoiced, and next sent for all the begging fraternity and gave them, according as each desired, gold, or apparel, or jewels, or horses, or elephants or chariots. They all left loudly telling and singing his praises: “Glory, glory, glory, to the lord of the Sun-god’s race.” Such were the rejoicings at Rāma’s wedding, beyond all that could be told even had I a thousand tongues.
Dohā 337.
Again and again the Lord bowed his head at Viśvāmitra’s feet: “All this happiness, O king of saints, is the result of your benignant regard.”
King Dasarath spent the whole night extolling Janak’s affection and amiability and magnificence; every day on rising he asked permission to return home, but Janak would lovingly detain him. There was constantly some new fête in his honour, and every day a thousand different kinds of entertainment. The rejoicings in the city never flagged, and no one liked to think of Dasarath’s departure. In this manner many days were spent, and the guests were fast bound by the cords of love, till Viśvāmitra and Satānand went and told Videha’s lord: “You must now let Dasarath take his leave, even though you cannot part with your love for him.” The king replied: “It is well,” and summoned his ministers, who came and bowed the head crying: “All hail!”
Dohā 338.
“Make it known in the palace that Avadh’s lord wishes to depart.” At these words the ministers, Brahmans, counsellors and princes were greatly moved.
When it was noised in the city that the guests were leaving, everyone anxiously asked his neighbour if it were a fact. When they heard they were actually going, all were as unhappy as a lotus that fades in the evening. Every place where the visitors had put up on their arrival was crowded with parting presents, fruits and confections of every kind, and dishes too various for description. A multitude of porters laden with wearing apparel and cooks beyond number were sent by Janak with 100,000 horses and 25,000 chariots, all exquisitely finished throughout, with 10,000 powerful elephants duly caparisoned, at sight of which earth’s guardian elephants would feel ashamed of themselves; besides wagons full of gold and raiment and jewels; buffaloes also and cows, and things of all kinds.
Again and again the Lord bowed his head at Viśvāmitra’s feet: “All this happiness, O king of saints, is the result of your benignant regard.”
King Dasarath spent the whole night extolling Janak’s affection and amiability and magnificence; every day on rising he asked permission to return home, but Janak would lovingly detain him. There was constantly some new fête in his honour, and every day a thousand different kinds of entertainment. The rejoicings in the city never flagged, and no one liked to think of Dasarath’s departure. In this manner many days were spent, and the guests were fast bound by the cords of love, till Viśvāmitra and Satānand went and told Videha’s lord: “You must now let Dasarath take his leave, even though you cannot part with your love for him.” The king replied: “It is well,” and summoned his ministers, who came and bowed the head crying: “All hail!”
Dohā 338.
“Make it known in the palace that Avadh’s lord wishes to depart.” At these words the ministers, Brahmans, counsellors and princes were greatly moved.
When it was noised in the city that the guests were leaving, everyone anxiously asked his neighbour if it were a fact. When they heard they were actually going, all were as unhappy as a lotus that fades in the evening. Every place where the visitors had put up on their arrival was crowded with parting presents, fruits and confections of every kind, and dishes too various for description. A multitude of porters laden with wearing apparel and cooks beyond number were sent by Janak with 100,000 horses and 25,000 chariots, all exquisitely finished throughout, with 10,000 powerful elephants duly caparisoned, at sight of which earth’s guardian elephants would feel ashamed of themselves; besides wagons full of gold and raiment and jewels; buffaloes also and cows, and things of all kinds.
Dohā 339.
The dowry, moreover, given by Videha’s king was immeasurable and beyond all telling; and Indra, had he seen it, would have thought the riches of the universe as nothing in comparison.
When the whole equipage had been thus arranged, Janak despatched it to Avadh. On hearing that the guests were about to start, all the queens were as unhappy as fish when water fails. Again and again they clasped Sita to their bosom and blessed and exhorted her, saying: “May you ever be beloved by your husband, and with him live a long and happy life; this is my blessing. Be obedient to your new father and mother and guru, and regarding your lord’s displeasure, do as he bids.” Her sweet-voiced companions too in their overpowering affection reminded her of woman’s crowning duty. Again and again after thus duly admonishing them the queens clasped the four brides to their bosom, and time after time, in the midst of their maternal embraces, exclaimed: “Why has God made woman?”
The dowry, moreover, given by Videha’s king was immeasurable and beyond all telling; and Indra, had he seen it, would have thought the riches of the universe as nothing in comparison.
When the whole equipage had been thus arranged, Janak despatched it to Avadh. On hearing that the guests were about to start, all the queens were as unhappy as fish when water fails. Again and again they clasped Sita to their bosom and blessed and exhorted her, saying: “May you ever be beloved by your husband, and with him live a long and happy life; this is my blessing. Be obedient to your new father and mother and guru, and regarding your lord’s displeasure, do as he bids.” Her sweet-voiced companions too in their overpowering affection reminded her of woman’s crowning duty. Again and again after thus duly admonishing them the queens clasped the four brides to their bosom, and time after time, in the midst of their maternal embraces, exclaimed: “Why has God made woman?”