||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -93 – Dhoha                                                       

Rama fastens the Shivadhanuss

Vaidhehi looked at Rama and prayed to all the deities with intense trepidation “ Oh! Maheshwara, Oh! Bhavani, kindly shower your grace, kindly reduce the weight of the Shivadhanuss, and shower your mercy upon me, and make all my pious deeds fruitful. Oh! Gananayaka, Oh! Varadhayaka, I have prayed for this day, kindly listen to my repeated prayers, and reduce the weight of the Shivadhanuss.” Devi Sita looking at Rama frequently, heartily prayed, her eyes welled up with tears in love, and body quivered in fear.  She watched Rama with intense love and took great pleasure in his attractiveness. Her father’s promise pushed her into extreme uneasiness, she thought, it is pitiable, my father has taken a decision which would end up either in happiness or distress, the ministers have no influence upon the King, therefore they did not advise him about the terrible consequences of it. It is inappropriate in the assembly of intellectuals, one side the powerful Vajra like Shivadhanuss on the other side the tender and soft natured Rama. Oh! Bhagavan, how could I attain peace? How did a flower bud perforate a diamond? All the people in the assembly are ignorant, Oh! Shivadhanuss, you are the only solace of mine, kindly make yourself lighter than ever before, the moment Rama approaches you.” Devi Sita was deeply distressed, every second seemed Yuga to her.

Devi Sita restlessly looked at Rama and Mother Earth, her eyes of Kamadeva that is restless like fishes in the pond.  Her lotus-like mouth did not utter a word in shy like a bee in the darkness of the night. Her eyes filled in tears, but the tears did not come out like the miser hidden the gold on the Earth, she felt extremely anxious, and spoke to herself “If I have performed austerities, vow, and rites with devotion and faith, If I have followed all the austerities with a pure mind, action, and deed, the supreme Lord who is all-pervasive would give me an opportunity to serve the lotus feet of Rama. People, who have intense faith and love on each other, would definitely unite in life.”  Devi Sita looked at Rama with extreme love, the supreme Lord Rama who is merciful read the mind of Devi Sita, he moved to the Shivadhanuss and looked at it like Garuda looks at the baby serpent. Lakshmana could not control his enthusiasm watching his brother’s attention on Shivadhanuss, he pressed his feet on the Earth and spoke “ Oh! The prominent ones, Oh! Koorma, Oh! Varaha, Oh! Anantha keeps protecting the Mother Earth from her fear. Rama has decided to fasten the Shivadhanuss, therefore keep you ready to protect the mother Earth.”  The men and women started praying to their family deities, Pithrus.  The ignorance, disbelief, misapprehensions and the haughtiness of the Kings, the grief and disappointments of King Janaka and Devi wanted to move away from sitting on the ferry like Shivadhanuss, to cross the vast ocean  with the help of powerful hands of Rama.

Rama looked at the people of Mithila,  who was sitting like the statue, and watched Devi Sita who was extremely anxious and frightful, Vaidhehi felt every second as Yuga, it was like a person died out of thirst has no use of the nectar-like ocean, the tree that had dried up completely has no use of downpour, there is no use of regretting over the lost opportunity, she thought of all these and looked at Prabhu, he was immensely pleased to watch her deep love. He sincerely prayed to his preceptor and lifted the Shivadhanuss effortlessly, it gave out the appearance of lightning, eventually, the light went on the sky created a circle, none could witness the way he fastened the Dhanuss and stretched the arrow up to ears, everyone has noticed that he was standing with the bow, that instantly split into two, the huge boisterous sound reverberated in the three worlds. Lord Surya’s horses lost its track, the prominent ones cheered out of extreme joy, earth quivered, Adishesha, Varaha, and Koorma shaken terribly. The deities, demons, Rishis, and Sages closed their ears and enquired the reason for it.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -92 – Dhoha

The fury of Lakshmana 

Lakshman bowed down before the lotus feet of Rama and spoke “Oh! Brother, after witnessing the Raghukula Thilaka, even after witnessing the presence of you that King Janaka spoke rudely about the Kings, Oh! Rama, who is born in the illustrious clan of Surya, and showers happiness to the lotus flowers with its brilliance, Oh! Bhagavan, I am willing to try without any pride, if I have the permission of you, I am willing to take out the entire Universe as a ball and would crush like the ball made of raw clay. Oh! Bhagavan, if I have the permission of you, I would crush the Mount Meru like the rooted vegetable/radish, so I am not worried about this old Shivadhanuss, Oh! Bhagavan, kindly order me, let me prove the prowess of Raghu's clan, I am willing to fasten the bow and carries it on my shoulder and run for hundreds of Yojana. I will crush the Shivadhanuss like the water bubble with your grace, if not I promise you, I will not touch the bow and arrows.”

The earth quivered at the voice of Lakshmana, the whole assembly becomes terrified, the illustrious Kings felt terrible, Devi Sita felt happy in her heart.  Janaka became diffident of his words.  The preceptors, Raghu, and all those saints and Rishis were extremely happy, with a single gesture of hands Rama controlled his anger and made him sit. Maharishi Vishwamithra realized it is an auspicious occasion; he spoke affectionately to Rama “Oh! Vathsa, rise from your seat, fasten the Shivadhanuss and remove the grief of Janaka.” Rama prostrates before the feet of the preceptor, he was neither excited nor disappointed, he rose from the seat that excelled the beauty of the young lion. Rama rose from his seat like the sun rises from the East, it kindled the heart of illustrious Sages and Rishis, the entire crowd in the assembly awfully looked at him. The desires of the Kings to marry Devi Sita faded like night, their haughty words has become the stars in the daylight, proud kings were shrunk like a lotus flower in the night, the wicked Kings took shelter like the owl in the daylight, the illustrious Rishis and deities became sorrowful like Chakravaha, they kept showering flowers willingness to provide their services. Rama prostrated before the preceptor with intense devotion and received the blessings of Sages and twice-born assembled, the Lord of the Universe approached the dais like an untamed elephant with an elegant walk.

The entire crowd of females and males of the city of Mithila cheered and happy watching the elegant movements of Rama towards the Shivadhanuss. They contemplated Pithrus and deities, they remembered their preceptors, and prayed “Oh! Prabho, Oh! Ganesha, if we have attained any piousness in our lives, let Rama break the Shivadhanuss like the stem of the lotus.” The mother of Devi Sita looked at Rama affectionately and she called out of her female attendants and spoke “Why no one is saying that these two handsome youths are too young to their preceptor? Even the powerful like Ravana and Banasura failed in their attempt, and many who have challenged to break them ran out of the place, why the preceptor of these two handsome youths wanted to test their prowess? How the babies of the swan lift the mountain Mandhara? The king has lost his patience, it is impossible to know the play of fate.” One of her intelligent Sakhi replied “Oh! Rani, never underestimate the power of intellectuals. The Sage Agastya who was born from the vessel and the vast ocean has what similarities in them? Sage Agasthya dried up the entire ocean, and his fame is known to the whole world. The Suryamandala looks small in appearance, but the brilliant rays of sun remove the darkness of the three worlds. The sacred hymns are simple and easy to utter, but it has the power to reach for Lord Bhrama, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Mahadeva and all the deities. A small arrow shot on the forehead of the untamed elephant is enough to bring under control. The Kamadeva who is wielded in the flower arrows and bow takes control of the entire Universe. Therefore, Devi, leave all your qualms, Oh! Rani, definitely Rama will fasten the Shivadhanuss. ” In this way, Sakhi pacified Rani, thus she got relieved from grief and it increased her affection towards Rama.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -90 – Dhoha

The disappointment of King Janaka 

The female attendants of Devi Sita brought her into the middle of the Yagashala, she was attired in magnificent garments, Jagathjanani was stunningly gorgeous and beyond description. She was adorned in various gem decorated exquisite ornaments all over the body; every part of her limb was carefully decorated by her attendants. The male and females assembled in the Hall were astounded watching the mesmerizing beauty of Devi Sita, deities produced the sounds of Dhundhubhi, Apsaras sung beautifully and showered flowers upon her. Devi Sita was holding most attractive Jayamala in her lotus-like hands, she passed a fleeting look at the Kings assembled, her eyes were anxiously searching for Rama, all the Kings were enticed watching the splendor of Devi Sita, she located Rama and Lakshmana seated near Sage Vishwamithra, her eyes fallen at him like she has found her long-cherished gem. Devi Sita became shy watching her preceptors and a huge crowd of the people of Mithila, she locked her heart in the thoughts of Rama and looked at her female attendants.

The people assembled were forgot to shut their eyes watching the loveliness of Devi Sita and handsomeness of Rama, they were embarrassed could not speak a word. They prayed to Lord Bhrama “ Oh! Shrishtikartha, kindly remove the stubbornness of Janaka and give a fine intellect to think like us, let him leave all his promises and give Devi Sita as wedded wife to Rama. Then the whole world will praise him, and this decision would be supported by the whole world. If he is too firm in his promise then he will regret it in the future. The dark cloud complexioned Rama is the perfect groom for Devi Sita, everyone supports the very idea.” King Janaka invited his ministers, they praised the clan of Janaka and he advised them to publicly announce his promise. They returned to perform their duties, they were not at all happy.

The ministers announced “Oh! Kings assembled in the hall, listen to me carefully, we are announcing the promise of the King of Vidheha. The powers of the hands of the King are like Chandra and Shivadhanuss is like Rahu which is too heavy and too hard to fasten.  The illustrious King like Ravana, Banasura have silently returned after witnessing the power of it. Therefore, who fasten the glorious Shivadhanuss in the assembly would attain Devi Sita as his wedded wife and the person would be considered as won over the three worlds.” The kings assembled were extremely happy after listening to the announcement, all were proud of their powers wanted to test their prowess, they were deeply frustrated, tied their upper clothing on the waist and hurried to the Shivadhanuss, they prayed to their beloved deities, they were impatient, looked at the Shivadhanuss with extreme anger, and utilized their all the strength to lift it. Alas! The bow did not move an inch, the intelligent Kings did not even attempt, the dull-minded were rushed to it and returned to their seats with extreme disgrace, the Shivadhanuss seemed to pull out all the prowess of the Kings who tried to lift it.

Ten thousand Kings collectively went to lift the Shivadhanuss but failed miserably. In this way, the efforts of the Kings assembled were became futile, the Shivadhanuss did not move an inch like the chaste woman who does not heed to the words of a lustful person. All those Kings who approached the Shivadhanuss were faced utter humiliation; they left their fame, prowess, glories at the feet of Shivadhanuss. The Kings assembled had extreme confusion and disappointment among them and returned to their respective seats. The King Janaka watching all these, felt annoyed and spoke “There are a number of Kings and rulers from various Kingdom are present on this occasion, even the deities and Asuras are disguised as King and presents in the hall, and various powerful rulers are present here.  The winner would attain a beautiful bride, immense wealth, and fame, Alas! I wonder Lord Bhrama has not created a human suitable for my daughter, he has not created a human who could fasten the powerful Shivadhanuss and to get married to my daughter. Who will refuse to have the precious gifts? It is disappointing none could fasten the Shivadhanuss, surprisingly none could move an inch from its place, Oh! Brothers, I have to say with extreme grief that there is no valorous human born on this Earth, kindly do not get agitated to my words, therefore all of you can return to your Kingdom, I think my daughter has to spend her life as unmarried, it is her fate, If I give up my promise it would remove all my fortune, I have not seen any other way, I think Devi Sita should spend all her life unmarried. If I have known that there will not be a valorous person in this world, I would not have taken this promise, I will not stand as a joker before all of you.” The women folks and the crowd were sunk in deep sorrow after listening to the painful words of King Janaka. They felt pity for Devi Sita, but Lakshmana who was sitting near Rama could not control his frustration. His bow curved too hard, lips quivered and the eyes shed fire in anger. The words of King Janaka hit like an arrow on his chest, he was scared of Rama, so he could not express his anger out.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -89 – Dhoha

Devi Sita's arrival in the Yagashala

The crowd attentively watched the handsome youth wherever they move, and everyone has assumed that Rama is staring at them; no one understood the secret behind it. Maharishi Viswhamithra highly appreciated King Janaka for the preparation and arrangements made for Dhanuryajja, King Janaka felt happy. There was a marvelous throne in the entire hall of Yajja, King offered that seat to Maharishi Vishwamithra, Rama and Lakshmana took a seat near to him. The Kings present were lost their enthusiasm watching Rama and Lakshmana like full moon take away all attraction of the shining of stars, they felt that Rama would definitely fasten the Shivadhanuss, in case if he could not do it, definitely, Devi Sita would adore him with Jayamala. They talked to each other that it would harm their prestige, social status, fame, and reputation. Some of the Kings dull-minded were answered even though he fastens the Shivadhanuss, he could not marry Devi Sita, and they have decided to fight for Devi Sita, till the end never bothered about Yama. There was a pious King who has sincere devotion at Lord Hari answered “ Lord Rama will definitely marry Devi Sita, after winning the challenge, he will crush the pride of ignorant Kings. The sons of Dhashratha are extremely skilled in the usage of armaments, therefore it is impossible for others to win over them. Therefore it is a waste of time using foul language in jealous, it is impossible to cure appetite by thinking of meals, therefore listen to my words carefully.  Devi Sita is the supreme Goddess, Jagadamba, Paramba, Bhagavathi, and Rama is Jagathpitha, let your eyes take pleasure in the loveliness of Rama. These two brothers are the storehouse of virtues, beauty, generosity, humility, etc. resides in the heart of Lord Shambhu. Therefore it is foolish to run after the illusion of waters in the desert and get killed, hence take pleasure in the nectar-like ocean. Otherwise, do whatever you feel; we have attained the highest of the piousness in our lives.” In this way, the righteous Kings gave answer back to the dull-minded wicked Kings and fixed their gaze upon Rama and Lakshmana.

The deities assembled in their respective celestial vehicles in the sky took great pleasure in the grand Dhanuryajja, Gandharvas sang beautifully and the celestial Apsaras danced to their tunes, deities’ showered flower upon Rama and Lakshmana. King Janaka called for his lovely daughter Devi Sita, immediately she arrived in the grand hall accompanied by her female attendants. It is difficult to describe the beauty of the supreme Goddess who is Jaganmatha, therefore I feel all those comparisons are futile. Why should I earn the name of a wicked poet, by comparing her physical appearance to that of ordinary women? Hence it is meaningless to compare Devi Sita with the women in this Universe. Vagdevi Devi Saraswathi symbolizes excellence in speech, Devi Bhavani has attained half of the body of Lord Mahadeva, Devi Rathi feels her husband is invisible, it is impossible to compare with Goddess Rama/Lakshmidevi, she has toxic poison, Varuni as her brother.  Her loveliness like an unfathomable ocean of nectar, and the Koorma as Parakashta, beauty, and brilliance as rope, Shringarasa as Mandaraparvatha, if Kamadeva churns it with his own hands, the Lakshmi who is the essence of beauty and bliss would be compared to the beauty of Devi Sita by the intellectuals.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -88 – Dhoha

Rama and Lakshmana's arrival to attend Dhanuryajja

As the crowd was witnessing the two handsome young men, one has dark cloud complexion, and another one has a fair complexion, with attractive physical features, the storehouse of virtues, entered in the Yajja arena. They took seats among the Kings, who were present in various neighboring cities, and gave out the appearance of the lustrous moon among them. The audience looked at these two handsome youth and enjoyed their beauty, the Kings realized them as two valorous youth, wicked Kings terrified at the sight of these two youths and considered them as a dreadful opponent, the Rakshas who have disguised as Kings, realized the youths as their death, the people of the city of Mithila realized them as exquisite ornaments, which is pleasing to the eyes, the females enjoyed the beauty of these two youth according to their tastes.  The intellectuals witnessed the Viratroopa of the supreme Lord, with numerous faces, hands, and legs. The family of King Janaka considered the two handsome youths as their own family members. The queen and the King considered them as their own children; Yogis considered them as serene, pure, and supreme brilliance which is the origin of Veda, Pranava, Universe, and its living beings. The devotees of Lord Hari considered them as their beloved Lord who is the provider of happiness and welfare. Devi Sita’s love and happiness multiplied watching Rama, cannot be described in words, she took great pleasure in the presence of him, could not speak them out. How did a poet could describe them all? In this way, the people assembled were witnessed that Lord of Ayodhya according to their own interest.

These two handsome youths who is the epitome beauty, and virtues, captured the attention of the entire crowd, their loveliness excelled the beauty of crores of Manmatha, the luster of their face excelled the luster of the full moon in the autumn season, the long eyes have the appearance of lotus flower petals, their attractive gazes were capable to entice the heart of Kamadeva, they have beautiful cheeks, nose, eyes, jawline, and lips, ears were adorned in magnificent ear ornaments, they have pleasing nature, their attractive smile excelled the beauty of lustrous moon, the curved eyebrows have the look of the bow, the lustrous forehead is adorned in sandalwood and vermilion paste, the beautiful  curly hair locks resemble a pack of honey bees, they were adorned in magnificent square-shaped hat with decorative works on it, their neck has the shape of the conch, their broad chest was decorated with the pearl garlands, and garland of Tulsi and they had powerful shoulders, they  stood like lions before the crowd. They had long hands, they were wielded in powerful bow and arrows, and holding one arrow on the right hand, they have tied a yellow upper garment on the waist; they were adorned in yellow-colored sacred thread across the chest. In short, the loveliness of these two brothers was most pleasing and was beyond description. The audience could not take their eyes off from them, they looked at these two handsome youths without blinking their eyes, and King Janaka was extremely pleased to watch these two princes, rushed to Maharishi Vishwamithra and prostrated before his feet, he reverentially invited him to the Yagna arena explained all about him and showed him all around the place.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -87 – Dhoha

 Devi Sita's worship of Goddess Gauri/ Rama and Lakshmana's arrival in the Yajja arena

Devi Sita went to the shrine of Devi Gauri and sincerely prayed “ Oh! Parvatharajakumari, Hail you! Oh! Devi, who stares at the splendor of Lord Mahadeva, like a Chakora bird at the full moon, Oh! Devi, who is the mother of Gajavadhana Ganesha, and six, faced Karthikeya, you are the mother of Universe and its living beings, has the resemblance of lightning, Hail you! Oh! Devi, you have neither beginning nor end, Vedas are incompetent to describe your splendor, Oh! Devi, you are the cause for creation, preservation, and destruction of the Universe and its living beings, you are capable to entice the whole Universe,  you are free to move at your own will. Oh! Mother, you are the chaste wife of Mahadeva, your glories are indescribable even for Adishesha or Goddess Sharadha.  Oh! Devi, worship of you would bring four Purusharththa/Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. Oh! Varadhayini, Oh! Beloved of Thripurari, whoever worships your lotus feet would attain welfare, deities, sages, Rishis, and humans constantly engage contemplation upon you. Oh! Devi, you reside as a soul in living beings, you have understood my desire, and therefore I am not keeping it open.” Thus, Devi Sita prostrated before Devi Gauri and hold on to her feet. Devi Bhavani was extremely pleased with her devotion and faith. The flower garlands from the idol fallen on Devi Sita, the idol of Devi Bhavani gave out a pleasant smile, Devi Sita devotedly kept the garland on her head. Devi Gauri spoke pleasantly “ Oh! Sita, listen to me, all your desires will fulfill. Maharishi Narada’s predictions never go untrue; you will attain the groom you have desired. You will attain that dark cloud complexioned charming youth as your husband.  The Supreme Lord who is all-pervasive and most compassionate knows your virtues and disciplines.” Devi Sita and all her female companions were extremely happy listening to the blessings of Devi Gauri. Once again, Devi Sita worshiped Goddess Bhavani and returned to the palace with extreme happiness.

Devi Sita was recollecting the predictions of Devi Bhavani, as an auspicious omen her left limbs quivered.   Rama and Lakshman highly appreciated the stunning beauty of Devi Sita and returned to their preceptor. Rama explained all that happened in the garden to Kaushika because he was innocent and open-hearted. Maharishi took flowers from them, after the worship of the deity, Maharishi Vishwamithra blessed the two brothers ‘Let all your desires come true!” Rama and Lakshmana became extremely happy. They had a sumptuous meal after that Maharishi narrated various legends from the scriptures, thus most parts of the day were spent like this, after obtaining permission from the preceptor, these two brothers went to perform sun worship. Rama remembered the attractive face of Devi Sita watching the luster of the moon, and felt happy once again. Rama thought “Chandra was born from the salt waters of the ocean, he has toxic poison as a brother, he is dull in the daylight and invisible, he has blemishes, and sick, therefore Chandra cannot reflect the beauty of Devi Sita. He has to undergo waning and waxing, hence he is a curse to the young maiden who is in love, he undergoes the afflictions from Rahu, he causes sorrow to Chakravaha, he causes the lotus flower to shrink, Oh! Chandra, you have many defects in you, if I have compared your luster to the face of Devi Vaidhehi, it would be a grave sin.” In this way he was engaged in various thoughts of Devi Sita, did not notice the time, it was already late in the night, he returned to the chamber of the preceptor, he prostrated before him and returned to his chamber. It was almost the late hours of the night; he spoke to Lakshmana “Oh! Brother, it is the early hours of dawn, the sun has arrived to keep the lotus flowers and Chakravaha in extreme delight.”

Lakshmana with folded hands spoke to Rama “Oh! Brother, very soon the kings assembled in the city of Mithila will return, after your arrival in this city, like the stars disappear from the sky in the daylight.   Even though they shine in the daylight, they cannot lift the Shivadanuss like massive darkness on their shoulders. Oh! Prabho, when you fasten the bow, all your devotees will be happy, like the honey bees, lotus flowers and Chakravaha becomes happy at the end of the night. The sun has risen and the darkness has gone, and the stars disappeared, the Lord Surya spreading its brilliance all over the world, Oh! Raghuram, the Lord Surya has revealed your presence to those Kings assembled in the city, the Dhanuryajja has been organized mainly to reveal your prowess and splendor.” Lord Rama smiled at his brother. They went to perform ablutions, performed the morning rites, and went to meet their preceptor, and prostrated before him. King Janaka invited his preceptor Shathanandha to the palace, later Sage Shathanandha went to meet Maharishi Vishwamithra, and he called for Rama and Lakshmana.  They sincerely prostrated before Maharishi Shathanandha and took a seat near Sage Vishwamithra who advised them to follow him to meet King Janaka.

 Sage Vishwamithra speaks “Oh! Vathsa, King Janaka has sent an invitation to participate in the grand Dhanuryajja, we will go and witness the wedding of Devi Sita. We have to witness who is that fortunate one going to get married to Devi Sita.” Lakshmana speaks “Oh! Guru, whoever has the grace of you will attain the fame.” The sages assembled were extremely happy to listen to his words, they blessed the two youths. Rama and Lakshman with all those Sages went to the arena where the grand Dhanuryajja was going to be held. All the villagers, ladies, children, men, elderly people have abandoned their homes and rushed the Yajja arena at the arrival of Rama and Lakshman. King Janaka advised his men to invite the people of Mithila and make them seated in the magnificent hall. The Kingsmen amiably spoke to the people assembled and helped them to be seated on their respective seats according to their social status such as intellectuals, twice-born, traders, and service-minded people, etc.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -86 – Dhoha

 Rama and Devi Sita's meeting in the pleasure garden

Rama speaks “Oh! Brother, the Dhanuryajja was proposed to conduct the marriage of the daughter of King Janaka, she has arrived in the shrine of Goddess Girija with her female attendants. She is spreading luster all over the place and walking all around the garden. Usually, I keep myself calm and quiet, but after seeing the stunning beauty of Devi Sita, I have become restless, God knows the reason for it. Oh! Brother, listen to me, my right part of the body is quivering as a mark of upcoming auspiciousness, the mind and intellect of the Raghuvamshis never wander in distress or difficulties, and I have great confidence in me that will not take pleasure in the strange woman.  There are very few  people in this word, who do not flee from battlefields, give their heart to strange women, or look at them lustfully, and serve the beggars with respect.” While Rama was talking to his brother, his mind was completely engaged in the beauty of Devi Sita’s lotus-like face as if honey bee taking pleasure in the lotus flower. Devi Sita dreadfully looked around in search for the two princes, her innocent looks resembled the baby antelope.  Immediately one of her companions pointed her finger and showed her the two handsome brothers in the creeper garden, she amazed looking at the loveliness of Rama; she felt extremely happy as if her long lost gem got back. She could not withdraw her eyes from Rama, and her eyelids forgot to blink, she lost body consciousness due to the rush of love for Rama, stood like a Chakora bird fixed its gaze at the full moon. She arrested the loveliness of Rama through the doors of her eyes and locked them in her heart, and closed the doors like eyes. Her female companions understood Devi Sita is completely besieged with the love for the dark cloud complexioned youth, they remained silent.

At the same time, the two brothers came out of the creeper garden, like the unblemished full moon comes out of the cloud, these two valorous youth were flawless, one has the luster of blue lotus flower and another one has the luster of white lotus. Their dark curly hair locks were adorned in peacock, his forehead was adorned in sandalwood paste and vermilion soaked in perspirations, they were adorned in magnificent earrings, they had attractive curved eyebrows, curly hair locks, red cheeks, beautiful jawline, nose, and attractive smile. Their loveliness was beyond description, which excels the beauty of several Kamadeva. Their chest was adorned in gem decorated ornaments, their neck has the resemblance to conch, and their long hands resemble the long trunk of youthful elephant Airavatha of Lord Indra. One of her companions speaks “Oh! Sakhi, the dark cloud complexioned prince with a handful of flowers on the left is extremely handsome. He has an attractive waist like a lion, attired in yellow silk garments.” The companions of Devi Sita looked at the Supreme Lord who is the epitome of beauty, and storehouse of virtues, and forgot themselves.

One of the companions of Devi Sita said “Oh! Devi, you can worship Devi Gauri later, why don’t you look at Rama?” Devi Sita opened her eyes, she saw the two lion-like princes before her, she looked Rama from head to toe, and immediately she thought of her father’s promise and got anxious. Devi Sita was completely besieged in love with him; at that moment one of her companions called for the ladies and said “Oh! Sakhi, we are already late to return to the palace, we will be back at the same time tomorrow.” They laughed together, and Devi Sita walked away shyly. Her mother was worriedly looking for the return of her daughter. Devi Sita kept her feelings for Rama intact with her and made herself prepared to follow the promise of her father. Devi Sita repeatedly looked back as if she was looking at birds or deer, or trees, and looked at Rama the most charming youth, her love for Rama was grown beyond words. Devi Sita immersed in various thoughts, the breaking Shivadhanus is not an easy task, she repeatedly remembered the dark cloud complexioned Rama.  Prabhu was watching Devi Sita who is the storehouse of beauty, virtues, and love, leaving with her companions, portrayed her beauty in his heart with the ink of love.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -85 – Dhoha

The meeting of Rama and Devi Sita

It was the final hours of the night; the rooster produced loud noise made Lakshmana leave the bed. The supreme Lord who is Sarvajja, Jagathpathi was already up before his preceptor. He had performed all the routines and took bath and performed daily rites, and they stood before the preceptor. Later, with the permission of the preceptor they together went to collect flowers from the garden, they have seen a beautiful garden in the palace, that gave out the appearance of Vasantha Rithu in all seasons, filled with fresh alluring flowers of various fragrances. There were a number of auspicious trees, there were creepers, filled with fruits and flowers, excels the beauty of gardens in the Devaloka. There was a number of species of birds, Chakora, Cuckoo, Myna, peacock, parrots were singing melodiously, the peacock was dancing to the tunes. There were beautiful water fountains in the middle of the garden, the steps to this fountain were constructed with gems and precious stones. There was a cluster of lotus flowers in the serene waters of the fountains, it was filled with water animals and buzzing sounds of the honey bees. The Supreme Lord who is perpetual bliss and his brother were astonished watching the beauty of it.  Oh! Listeners, if these pleasure gardens are capable to kindle happiness in the hearts of the abode of supreme bliss, we could imagine the attractiveness of this garden.

These two brothers looked around for the caretakers of the garden, with their permission they have started collecting leaves and flowers with great enthusiasm. In the same time, Devi Sita was on her way to worship Goddess Girija, at the order of her mother arrived in the garden. She was accompanied by women folks of great intelligence in marvelous attires were singing melodiously. There was a beautiful shrine close to the pond that attracts the heart of everyone. Devi Sita took bath in the pond with her female attendants and went to the shrine of Goddess Girija. She worshiped Goddess Girija and prayed for a suitable groom with intense devotion, one of her attendants went to check on the flower garden, met these two handsome youth, she could resist her happiness rushed to Devi Sita. She was in a state of ecstasy, with tears overflowing on her cheeks, all her companions approached her and enquired the reason for it with kind words.  The female attendant began to speak “ Oh! Ladies, I have seen two handsome princes in the garden, one is dark cloud complexioned and anther one is fair, I could not describe their attractiveness, I have no words to describe them.” All those women folks were become happy, seeing the anxious of Devi Sita to know more about these handsome youth, one of the intelligent women speaks “These two handsome youths are the princes followed Maharishi Vishwamithra. They have won the hearts of the people of Mithila with their beauty, humility, generosity, and simplicity. The whole city is talking about their attractiveness and compassion; we should go and meet them, they are highly virtuous and attractive as well.” The speeches of his female attendants kindled desires in Devi Sita to witness the two handsome youths, she rushed to meet them, but none understood her love for Rama is eternal.

Devi Sita remembered the words of Maharishi Narada, it kindled intense love for Rama, and she looked around in search of Rama like a baby antelope in extreme terror and anxiousness. Rama could listen to the jingling noises of bangles, waist ornaments, chest ornaments, and anklets took great interest in his heart and spoke to Lakshmana “Lord Kamadeva has started playing the auspicious instrument Dhundhubi to win over the Universe.” he looked at the directions of the Jiggling noises, Alas! His eyes took great interest like Chakora bird that take pleasure in the full moon, he took great pleasure watching that marvelous beauty of Devi Sita. He watched at her loveliness without blinking eyes, he took great pleasure in her attractiveness. He highly praised her beauty in his heart, words did not come out. Lord Bhrama showed his excellence in creation by creating Devi Sita and send down to Earth, spoke to himself “she is the epitome of beauty, spreading loveliness to the whole Universe, she shines like a lightning in the magnificent shrine, poets are incompetent to describe her beauty, how did I describe the beauty of Vidhehaputhri?” In this way, Prabhu described the beauty of Devi Sita, and he began to converse with his brother.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -84 – Dhoha

Rama's visit to the arena of Dhanuryajja

One of the women gathered in the house spoke to her companions “Oh! Ladies, he is the most suitable groom for Devi Janaki, Oh! Sakhi, If King Janaka has met this handsome youth, he would forget all the promises and agrees to the marriage of Devi Janaki with this groom.” Another woman speaks “Oh! Sakhi, King Janaka has already come to know about the details of these handsome youths, King invited the twice-born, Sages and Rishis, and these youths to his palace, but he did not leave his promise to the world, it is the fate that he is firm in his decision.” Another woman speaks “If fate is promising to an individual it would bring all the auspiciousness, therefore Devi Janaki would definitely achieve this handsome youth who has the complexion of dark clouds, as her wedded husband. If it is worked with the grace of the Lord, everyone would be happy. Oh! Sakhi, if we are fortunate and have achieved piousness in our previous births, the wedding with this handsome youth to Devi Janaki would bring him again and again in the city of Mithila.”

Another woman speaks “Oh! Sakhi, you are right, this union of Devi Janaki with this handsome youth would be highly promising to all.” Another woman speaks “It is difficult to tie the bow of Shivadhanuss, this handsome youth with rain cloud complexion is delicate, not feeling right.” Another woman speaks softly “ Oh! Sakhi, I have heard of these youth from several people, even though he is too young, his prowess is endless. The dust from his lotus feet removed the curse of Devi Ahalya, therefore there is no doubt that he would tie that powerful Shivadhanuss, so do not leave your hopes. Lord Bhrama who created the most stunning Devi Janaki has already created this attractive youth with the rain cloud complexion as her groom.” All the women assembled were cheered ‘Let it be!’ These beautiful women with attractive features showered flowers upon these two youths who were walking on the pathways. The places they have visited filled with happiness and joy. Finally, they have reached the place where the preparations of the Dhanuryajja were completed, on the south side of the grand palace. It was beautifully decorated; a grand hall with huge space, in the center of this grand hall there was a huge Yagashala that was arranged. There was a stunningly decorated throne on the four sides of the Yagashala, which was kept ready for the princes to be seated. There were raised seats well decorated that were kept ready was extremely attractive, which was kept for the people of the Mithila. There were seats kept separately for the women, respecting their privacy to watch the Yaga comfortably, thus the children of the city narrated all those arrangements to Rama and Lakshman. These children were waiting to get a touch of the marvelous body of these youths; their hearts were filled in extreme bliss. Rama realized that these children are very kind and affectionate; Rama willingly listened to all their explanations with great interest. These children took the handsome brothers to all their favorite places, and these two brothers followed them sincerely to enhance their happiness. Rama explained all those grand arrangements were made for the Dhanuryajja to his brother, the supreme Lord who is the creator of Universe and its living beings with his Maya, the compassionate Lord watched the brilliance of the arrangements of the Yajjashala in awe, and eventually, they return to their fortress to meet the preceptor.

These two brothers had little anxiousness about their late return to the fortress, the supreme Lord who is formidable to drive away from the fear, reveals the power of the devotion to his preceptor. They bade farewell to those lovely children of Mithila and returned to their place of stay. They two went to meet the preceptor, prostrated before him with extreme reverence, humility, and devotion, they were little embarrassed for being late to return, took a seat with the permission of his preceptor. They went to perform the worship of Surya at the command of the preceptor. Sage Vishwamithra narrated various legends from scriptures and Ithihasa, thus they have spent two Yama of the nights. Eventually, the preceptor retired to sleep; these two handsome youth gave massage of feet to Guru.  The Supreme Lord whose feet is sought after by Vairagins, and performs various Yoga, Yaga, and Japa, these two brothers were massaged the feet of their preceptor with intense devotion and faith. Sage Vishwamithra repeatedly advised them to return to their chambers, finally, Raghuvara withdrew to sleep. Lakshmana sat at the leg side of Prabhu and given a massage with great affection and devotion, and took great pleasure in it. Prabhu repeatedly advised Lakshmana to get sleep, later he contemplated upon that lotus feet and returned to his chamber.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -83 – Dhoha

Rama and Lakshmana's  visit to watch the splendor of the city of Vidheha

Rama and Lakshmana walked on the pathways was followed by a huge group of children, they were enticed by the charming nature of these two youths, one has the complexion of dark clouds, and another one was fair, they both were adorned in a magnificent yellow garment with a matching upper clothe tied around the waist, they were adorned in the bow and arrow, they had broad chest adorned in the attractive pearl ornaments, their body was smeared in rich fragrant sandalwood paste, they had conch shaped neck, and long hands, their eyes have the resemblance to lotus flower petals, their faces have the luster of the full moon, which is capable to remove Thrividha Papa/sins from attachment to people, sins from the attachment to body, sins from the attachment to worldly matters, their ears were adorned in magnificent ear ornaments, they had a most attractive, compassionate and enticing look, they had bow like curved eyebrows, their forehead adorned in a beautiful mark of vermilion and sandalwood paste, they were adorned in square-shaped beautiful cap on their head, they had thick and curly hair locks, their beauty is indescribable, every limb of them were flawless.

The entire villagers assembled to witness the handsome youths who came to have a look around the city, the villagers were gathered around them like a beggar rush to abduct the wealth, these villagers left all their jobs and ran after Rama and Lakshman, they felt their lives have become fruitful after witnessing them. The woman folks looked through the windows of their homes and took great pleasure in the beauty of Rama and Lakshmana and they began to converse with each other, “Oh! Sakhi, he excels the beauty of crores of Manmatha, even the deities, humans, Nagas, and Sages does not have that marvelous appearance. Lord Vishnu has four hands, Lord Bhrama has four faces, and Lord Tripurari has a fierce look and five faces, Oh! Sakhi, none of the deities could win over the beauty of these two men. These two youth has the complexion of dark clouds, and fair complexion respectively,  they are the epitome of beauty, and the abode of bliss, and their each and every attractive limb cannot compare with crores of Manmatha. Oh! Sakhi, who is that Jeeva does not take pleasure in the mesmerizing beauty of these youths?” The other women spoke softly “ Dear ladies, listen to me, these two handsome youth resembles the pair of the swan are the sons of King Dhasharatha. They are the protectors of Yaga of Maharishi Vishwamithra, they have killed numerous demons.  The dark cloud complexioned Rama who is the son of Devi Kausalya has beautiful eyes resembles lotus flower petal, wielded in bow and arrow, crushed the pride of Mareecha and Subhahu. The younger one who is following Rama is Lakshmana, he is the son of Devi Sumithra, he has a fair complexion and wielded in bow and arrow. These two charming youth protected the Yaga of Sage Vishwamithra, removed the curse of Devi Ahalya, and arrived here to witness the grand Dhanuryajja going to be held in the city of Mithila.” All the ladies were extremely happy to listen all about Rama and Lakshman.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -82 – Dhoha

The arrival of Rama and Lakshmana to the city of Vidheha

King Dhasharatha prostrated before Maharishi Vishwamithra and spoke “Oh! Sage, Is these two handsome youths are the jewel of the clan of Sage? or Protectors of the royal clan? Or that supreme Bramham which is beyond comparison eulogizes by the Veda ‘Nethi Nethi’ took birth on Earth? Oh! Sage, my mind and intellect always take interest in abandonment has become joyful like the Chakora bird that takes pleasure in the presence of the full moon, I am completely thrilled to witness these charming youths. Oh! Sage, why did my mind and intellect stop taking pleasure in Bhramanandham after witnessing these two youths? Kindly explain to me.” Maharishi Vishwamithra smiled at him and speaks “Oh! Rajan, you are right, your words will not become untrue, and the whole Universe and its living beings love these two youths. These two handsome youths are the son of King Dhasharatha, these are the jewels of the Raghu clan, and the King has sent these youths with me for the welfare of the whole world.” Rama smiled at himself listening to their conversations.

Maharishi Vishwamithra speaks “ Oh! Rajan, These two brothers Rama and Lakshman are the storehouse of virtues, symbolize beauty and simplicity, and prowess. The whole world knows the fact that these two fought against the demons and protected my fire sacrifices. King speaks “Oh! Sage, I am fortunate to meet you and these two handsome youth, one is in dark cloud complexion and another one is fair, these two are extremely pleasing to eyes, the true affection they share with each other is beyond description, it extremely pleasing to heart as well. These two are sharing the love of Paramathma and Jeevathma.” King Janaka repeatedly looked at these handsome youths, his heart filled with devotion and bliss. He appreciated the Sage and repeatedly prostrated before his feet, and took them to his palace and provided them a beautiful fortress with all the amenities.  The King received Maharishi Vishwamithra, Rama, Lakshmana, and all the sages and ascetics with great honor, and served them and returned to his chamber.

Rama and Lakshmana took a meal with the Sages and ascetics and went to relax for a while. It was almost a quarter of the daylight left; Rama took a seat near Lakshmana who revealed his desire to take a look around the palace of King Janaka. He was not expressed to anyone, waiting for the permission from his elder brother, Rama understood the desire of his brother, he affectionately looked at his brother, went to get permission from the preceptor. “Oh! Muni, Lakshmana wanted to have a look around the palace of the King, he did not express to you due to fear and embarrassment, if you permit I can take him out to see around and bring him back.”  Maharishi Vishwamithra replied with a smile “Oh! Rama, you are a compassionate one, there is no doubt in it, Oh! Vathsa, you are righteous and impartial, as well as the source of happiness to others. Oh! Compassionate brothers, go and watch the beauty of the Kingdom of Vidheha, and come back. People would make their lives fruitful watching your charming faces.” They prostrated before Maharishi Vishwamithra and came out of the fortress.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -81 – Dhoha

 The description of the City of Vidheha

Lord Rama and Lakshmana followed Maharishi Vishwamithra and arrived at the sacred river Jagathpavani Goddess Ganga. Vishwamithra, the son of Gadhi explained the origin of Devanadhi Ganga on the Earth. He took bath in Ganga with all those saints and Rishis. Thus, Rama and Lakshmana along with a group of saintly men arrived in the Mithila, Kingdom of Vidheha.  They were highly impressed with the magnificence of the Kingdom; there was number of attractive fortress, wells, ponds, rivers, streams, with gem decorated stairs. The pleasure gardens, trees, shrubs filled with flowers of rich fragrances, the honey bees were taking great pleasure in it moving around with buzzing sounds. There were numerous species of attractive birds producing chirping sounds, there were different colors of lotus flowers in the ponds, there was cool braze of rich fragrances spread in the atmosphere. The city was well maintained with many pleasure gardens, mangroves, creeper gardens, and auspicious trees which are the dwelling place of numerous species of birds, filled with alluring flowers of rich fragrances and fruits. The mesmerizing beauty of the city of Mithila was beyond description, beautiful villages, markets, and houses decorated with various decorative, the whole Kingdom of Vidheha were shone like the city constructed by Lord Bhrama. There were wealthiest traders equivalent to Kubera, and traders were taking care of their business, there were attractive junctions, the pathways were sprayed with the fragrant waters, all those houses resembles the abode of auspiciousness, with decorative paints on the wall, looked like Kamadeva portrayed them with his own hands. The people of the Kingdom were pure, unblemished, attractive, sincerely followed righteousness, simple, innocent, highly intelligent, and virtuous as well. The palace of King Janaka was stunningly beautiful, even the deities’ get surprised by its splendor, the fortress wall was massive and attractive, appears as it has covered all the auspiciousness of the three worlds. There were numerous fortresses made of marbles, decorated with gems, with exquisite artwork. The palace where Devi Sita lived was beyond description.

The huge palace gates were decorated with diamonds and carved in strong wood, the palace was filled with the dignitaries, well-wishers, poets, Kings, dancers, etc. There was a huge place for keeping the livestock, shelter homes, and stable, for keeping those elephants, horses, and chariots. There were huge army men for King Janaka, and all those warriors were lived in grand fortresses, there were many ponds and rivers out of the city where the kings from neighboring countries took shelter. Maharishi Vishwamithra found a beautiful Mango tree garden, and advised Rama, Lakshman and the sages accompanied to stay for a while. They all assembled under the shades of that beautiful Mango tree garden. King of Mithila understood the arrival of Maharishi Vishwamithra with all those saints and ascetics, hurried to the garden accompanied by all his ministers, twice-born, army men, and preceptor and relatives to invite Maharishi to his palace.

King Janaka reverentially greeted Maharishi Vishwamithra and all those ascetics, prostrated was blessed by the Rishi. He went to meet twice-born and greeted them with great respect; he repeatedly praised his fortune to receive them as his guests. Maharishi Vishwamithra took the King and offered him a seat and enquired about the welfare of the Kingdom and its people. At that moment, the two handsome Rama and Lakshman returned back after visiting the beautiful garden. The one youth was dark cloud complexioned and another one was fair, they had a charming appearance, pleasing to eyes. All the ascetics and Sages rose from their seats when Raghupathi arrived, Maharishi Vishwamithra took his hand and made him seated next to him. All of them were extremely happy to witness these charming youths, their eyes filled with tears, and transported into a state of ecstasy.  King Dhashratha could not take his eyes off from watching the mesmerizing beauty of Rama, he sat like a statue.

||Sri Ram Jayram Jaya Jaya Ram||

Chapter -80 – Dhoha

Khara Dhooshana Vadham and Ahalya Moksha

In the early hours of dawn Raghurama met Maharishi Vishwamithra and asked him to precede the Yaga, thus all the Rishis engaged in the fire sacrifices. Rama stood as protector of the Yaga. At that moment, Mareecha with all his demon warriors who are the enemies of the sages and ascetics began to appear all over the place of Yaga, Rama shot an arrow on Mareecha that heaved him several thousand miles/hundreds of Yojana, away with a single shot of an arrow.  An Agneyaasthra shot against Subhahu and killed him instantly. Lakshmana killed the entire army of demons, in this way the two brothers killed the numerous demons and freed the Sages from their atrocities. The Sages, Rishis, and deities eulogized the valor of the supreme Lord. Later, Raghurama lived in the woods with the Sages and Rishis and showered his grace upon them. Prabhu who is the essence of Veda and scriptures sincerely listened to legends narrated by the Sages and Rishis with intense devotion. Maharishi Vishwamithra advised Rama and Lakshman to visit the Kingdom of Ayodhya to witness the grand Dhanuryajja. Raghunatha sincerely followed Maharishi to the place of Dhanuryajja, on their way, they have seen an abandoned hermitage, there was no people or animals around it, there was a rock stood before the hermitage, Prabhu enquired the legend about that stone statue. Maharishi Vishwamithra answered “Oh! son,  Oh! Raghuveera, the stone statue is the chaste wife of Sage Gautama, who was cursed by him, waiting for the touch of your feet to get relieved from the curse. Kindly shower your grace upon her.”

The Supreme Lord, whose feet remove all the grief, liberated Devi Ahalya from the curse at the touch of his feet. Devi Ahalya stood with folded hands before the Prabhu who showers happiness to his passionate devotees,  she was in a state of ecstasy could not speak a word, she fell at his feet and shed tears of happiness, with tears overflowing she has realized the compassionate Lord’s presence, it increased her devotion to that supreme Lord. She eulogized the supreme Lord Rama with marvelous verses “Victory to Rama who symbolizes wisdom! Oh! Rama, you are attainable for the intellectuals, I am an impure woman, you are capable to purify the whole Universe, and provide happiness to your sincere devotees. Oh! Rajeevalochana, Oh! Bhavabhayamochana, I shall surrender at your lotus feet, kindly shower your mercy upon me. I have received a curse from Sage Gauthama, I am fortunate one, and therefore I could witness the supreme Lord who protects the Jeeva from the unfathomable ocean of worldly existence, and provide Mukthi. Lord Shankara considers your Dharshan as the highest of piousness and grace. Oh! Prabho, I am innocent by heart. I have a sincere request to you; I do not need any boons, other than intense faith upon your lotus feet, like the bee that takes immense pleasure in the honey on the lotus flower. Oh! Bhagavan, Suranadhi Ganga descends down Earth washing your lotus feet were adorned in the matter hair locks of Shambhu, your lotus feet are worshiped by Lord Bhrama, you have placed that lotus feet on my head, hence I am the fortunate one.” In this way, Devi Ahalya praised Lord Hari and repeatedly prostrated at his feet, eventually, she took leave to the hermitage of Sage Gauthama.

The supreme Lord Hari, the Prabhu is Dheenabandhu, showers endless mercy upon the Jeeva, Oh! Dull-minded people, Oh! Tulsidas, leave the wickedness and conflicts and contemplate upon that supreme Lord Hari.