Baal Kaanda
18 - Sati's visit to Daksa's sacrifice
Chaupais
Description
Kinnaras (a species of demigods), Ngas, Siddhas (a class of celestial beings) and Gandharvas (celestial songsters) and the whole host of gods proceeded to the sacrifice alongwith their wives. All the gods with the exception of Viisnu, Viranci (the Creator) and the great Lord Siva, set out in their aerial cars. Sats beheld beautiful aerial cars of various patterns coursing through the air. Celestial damsels were singing melodious strains, which intruded upon the ears of ascetics and broke their meditation. When Sats inquired about the stir in the air, Siva explained the whole thing. She was somewhat delighted to hear of the sacrifice commenced by Her father and thought of making it an excuse for staying a few days with Her father in case the great Lord Siva granted Her leave. Repudiation by Her lord tormented Her heart not a little; but conscious of Her guilt She would not utter a word. At last Sats spoke in a charming voice tinged with awe, misgiving and affection (1-4)