Prelude to Sita-Rama Wedding

Lord Rama’s remarkable strength and valor were evident when he broke Shiva’s divine bow. The challenge was to string the mighty bow, and many princes and warriors had already tried and failed. However, Rama effortlessly lifted and broke the bow, astonishing everyone present. Witnessing this unparalleled act of courage, King Janaka decided to give his beloved daughter, Sita, in marriage to Rama, recognizing him as the ideal suitor.

Messengers quickly carried the joyous news to Ayodhya. They informed King Dasharatha about Rama’s success and Sita’s impending marriage to him. Dasharatha was overjoyed by this auspicious event. He immediately began preparations to travel to Mithila, accompanied by his trusted sages, ministers, and advisors. The news filled the entire kingdom with excitement and anticipation.

Dasharatha’s journey to Mithila was a grand affair. He led a magnificent procession comprising his royal army, immense wealth, sages, and a convoy of splendid vehicles. The entire procession exuded grandeur and reflected the opulence of the Ikshvaku dynasty. People along the way marveled at the splendor of the royal entourage as it made its way to Mithila.

After a four-day long journey, upon reaching Mithila, King Janaka warmly welcomed Dasharatha and his entourage. Janaka expressed his admiration for the illustrious Ikshvaku dynasty and conveyed his honor in forming an alliance with them. The atmosphere was filled with mutual respect and joy as the two royal families came together.

During the formal discussions, Sage Vashishta, the royal priest of the Ikshvaku dynasty, eloquently narrated the lineage of the dynasty, highlighting its glorious history and noble rulers. In return, King Janaka shared the lineage of Videha, emphasizing the virtues and achievements of his ancestors. This exchange strengthened the bond between the two families and added to the sanctity of the alliance.

King Janaka declared that Sita would marry Rama, and his younger daughter, Urmila, would marry Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana. This announcement was met with great joy and approval from both families. The union of these couples symbolized the blending of two noble dynasties, marking the beginning of an auspicious chapter.

Sage Vishwamitra, who had guided Rama and Lakshmana during their journey to Mithila, proposed that King Janaka’s brother, Kushadhwaja, offer his two daughters in marriage to Dasharatha’s other sons, Bharata and Shatrughna. King Janaka agreed to this proposal, further strengthening the alliance between the two royal families.

The date for the grand weddings was set for an auspicious day just three days away. King Dasharatha performed the preliminary rituals with utmost devotion and care. The preparations for the ceremonies were elaborate, ensuring that every detail reflected the grandeur and sanctity of the occasion.

As part of the wedding rituals, King Dasharatha showcased his generosity by donating four lakh cows to Brahmins. These cows were adorned with golden horns and accompanied by their calves. This act of charity was a reflection of the noble traditions of the Ikshvaku dynasty and added to the blessings for the weddings.

The weddings of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata, and Shatrughna were to be celebrated with unmatched grandeur and joy. These unions not only marked a significant event in the history of the royal families but also symbolized the triumph of righteousness, valor, and divine blessings.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi