Rama and Sita Begin Married Life
Balakanda - Sarga 77
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Balakanda - Sarga 77
Rama's triumphant return to Ayodhya, royal weddings, and Bharata's departure unfold. Witness Rama's exemplary conduct and his deep bond with Sita in this epic tale of duty and love.
After Parasurama departed, Rama, son of Dasaratha, calmly handed over the bow and arrow to Varuna (the god of waters). Rama, descendant of Raghu, then paid respects to Vasishtha and other sages. Noticing his father's agitation, he spoke:
"Now that Parasurama has left, let the army with its four divisions march towards Ayodhya under your command. The army eagerly awaits your orders, much like chataka birds (birds believed to subsist on raindrops) waiting for water."
Hearing Rama's words, King Dasaratha embraced his son and kissed his forehead. Upon learning of Parasurama's departure, the king felt overjoyed, as if he and his son were reborn.
Consequently, Dasaratha ordered the army to move. They quickly reached the city of Ayodhya, which was:
Decorated with colorful flags and banners
Resounding with jubilant trumpet calls
Its royal roads sprinkled with water and adorned with flowers
Filled with citizens making joyful sounds with musical instruments
The king, followed by his graceful sons, entered the city. Citizens and brahmins (priests and scholars) came from afar to welcome him. Finally, Dasaratha re-entered his magnificent palace, which resembled the Himalaya mountains. There, he rejoiced with his family amidst various pleasures.
The royal women were busy receiving the new brides. Kausalya, Sumitra, and the slender-waisted Kaikeyi, along with other royal ladies, welcomed:
The highly fortunate Sita
The famous Urmila
Both daughters of Kusadhwaja (Mandavi and Srutakirti)
The new brides, adorned with auspicious items and dressed in silk, immediately visited temples to worship the family deities. This act demonstrated their respect for tradition and their new family.
After paying respects to their elders, the princesses entered their new homes, which rivaled the splendor of Kubera's (god of wealth) residence. To mark the auspicious occasion, they pleased the brahmins with generous gifts of cows, wealth, and grain.
Following these ceremonies, the newlyweds enjoyed private time together, strengthening their new bonds.
The princes, unmatched in prowess and now married, moved about with their friends while dutifully serving their father. They were skilled in weapons and endowed with wealth, exemplifying ideal royal conduct.
After some time, King Dasaratha addressed Bharata, Kaikeyi's son, saying:
"Your maternal uncle Yudhajit, son of the Kekaya king, has come to take you with him. He requested this in Mithila among the sages. You should please him by accepting his invitation."
Upon hearing this, Bharata respectfully paid homage to his father and Rama, warmly embraced Lakshmana, and prepared to leave with Satrughna. The valiant Bharata bid a heartfelt farewell to his father, his tireless brother Rama, and his mothers before departing with Satrughna.
After Bharata's departure, Rama and the mighty Lakshmana continued to serve their godlike father with unwavering dedication. Rama, adhering strictly to his father's commands, diligently carried out all civic duties, ensuring the comfort and welfare of the citizens.
Moreover, Rama conscientiously performed his duties towards his mothers and elders, regularly supervising these responsibilities. His conduct was so exemplary that it pleased not only King Dasaratha but also the brahmins, city dwellers, and people across the entire country.
In this world, the glorious and virtuous Rama, armed with unwavering truthfulness, became like Brahma (the creator god) to the people. His virtues even surpassed those of the divine, making him a paragon of righteousness.
Rama, with his sensitive nature, enjoyed many seasons with Sita. His devotion to her was constant, with his heart always attuned to hers. Sita, chosen by Dasaratha as Rama's wife, became his beloved due to her virtues and beauty. Their affection for each other grew stronger with each passing day.
For Sita, Rama was doubly dear. Their bond was so strong that they seemed to communicate every thought through their hearts alone. Sita, born in Mithila as Janaka's daughter, held a special place in Rama's heart. Her beauty rivaled that of the goddesses, making her appear like an embodiment of Lakshmi (goddess of wealth and prosperity).
United with this charming princess, Rama, son of the sage-king Dasaratha, shone brilliantly. Their union was reminiscent of Vishnu (the preserver god) with Lakshmi, radiating divine splendor and harmony.
Thus ends the Seventy Seventh sarga (chapter) of Balakanda (The Book of Youth) of the holy Ramayana, the first epic composed by sage Valmiki.