Baal Kaanda
55 - Arrival of the marriage procession and its reception etc., at Janakapura
Chaupais
Description
The king asked the family priest (Satananda), "What is the cause of delay now?" Satananda then summoned the ministers, who came equipped with all auspicious articles. A number of conches, drums and tabors sounded. Festal vases and articles of good omen (such as curds, turmeric and blades of Durva grass) were displayed. Graceful women (whose husbands were alive) sang songs, and holy Brahmanas murmured Vedic texts. In this manner they proceeded to invite the bridegroom's party with due honour and called at the latter's lodgings. When they witnessed King Dasaratha's glory, Indra (the lord of celestials) looked very small to them. "The hour has come; be good enough to start now," they submitted. At this the drums gave a thundering beat. After consulting his preceptor and going through the family rites King Dasaratha sallied forth with a host of sages and holy men.