Baal Kaanda
56 - The wedding of Sita and Rama and Their farewell
Chaupais
Description
King Janaka admonished his daughters in ways more than one, and instructed them in the duties of a woman as well as in family customs. He bestowed upon Sita a good many men-servants and maid-servants who had been her trusted and favourite attendants. As She proceeded on Her journey the citizens felt miserable; while good omens, which were all fountains of blessings, appeared. Accompanied by a crowd of Brahmanas and his counsellors the king himself followed his daughters to escort them. When it was found that the time of departure had come, music began to play and the members of the bridegrooms' party made ready their chariots, elephants and horses. King Dasaratha summoned all the Brahmanas and sated them with gifts and courtesy. The king placed the dust of their lotus-feet on his head and was glad to receive their benediction. Invoking the elephant-headed Ganesa he set out on his journey, when many good omens, which were the roots of felicity, occurred.