Baal Kaanda
56 - The wedding of Sita and Rama and Their farewell
Chaupais
Description
The people of the city, both men and women, ran to see the four brothers, who were naturally lovely. Said one, "They intend leaving today; King Videha has made all arrangements for their farewell. So let your eyes drink in their beauty; the four princes have been our most welcome guests. Who knows, friend, what virtuous deed we have perfomed, in return for which Providence has unexpectedly brought them before our eyes? Even as a dying man should stumble on nectar or he who has been starving all his life should be able to discover a wish-yielding tree or as one of the damned in hell should attain to the abode of Sri Hari, even so have we been blessed with their sight. Gaze on Sri Rama's beauty and treasure it in your heart; let your mind fondly cherish His image even as a serpent loves the gem in its hood." Thus delighting the eyes of all, the four princes went to the royal palace.