Baal Kaanda
56 - The wedding of Sita and Rama and Their farewell
Chaupais
Description
Greatly moved at the sight of Sri Rama's beauty they affectionately fell at His feet again and again. Their heart being rapt in love, the feeling of shyness had bid them adieu; how could their natural affection for their sons-in-law be described? After rubbing the body of Sri Rama and His brothers with cosmetics they were given a bath and were most lovingly entertained with dishes containing the six flavours. Finding it a suitable opportunity Sri Rama spoke in accents full of amiability, affection and modesty. "Our royal father intends leaving for Ayodhya, and has sent us here to take leave of you. Therefore, mothers, grant us permission with a cheerful mind and ever regard us with affection as your own children." The ladies of the gynaeceum were distressed to hear these words; the mothers-in-law were too overwhelmed with emotion to speak a word. They clasped all the princesses to their bosom and while giving them to their lords made humble submission to them