I shall remain upon the path, gazing at the red dye upon the Lord’s feet.
I shall perform service in the pleasure-palace, taking up each task at every step.
Says Nehalata: beholding the bridegroom’s beauty, my life itself has become blessed.
The Farewell: Barahmasa — Pada 144
“If you leave your in-laws’ home now, where will you go, my Lord? Beloved, remain here in the city of Mithila.
The month of Pausha has arrived; your mother-in-law’s heart is anxious, yet all happiness dwells in this house of your in-laws.
In Magha, when the cold is lovely, I shall spread a quilt of love; beneath that covering you will not fear the winter chill.
In Phalguna I shall have you play Holi; I shall mix the colors and fill the water-syringe again and again.
In Chaitra the king of seasons arrives, with flowers overflowing; I shall weave garland after garland and place them upon your lovely form.
When Vaishakha comes and the body is scorched by heat, dear boy, I shall shelter you beneath a parasol.
In Jyeshtha the hot wind blows and even grass cannot bear it; Beloved, I shall not let you walk upon the road.
In Ashadha the clouds gather and endless drops descend; I shall let you behold the beauty of the riverbank from within the chamber.
When the splendor of Shravana arrives, I shall prepare a flower-decked swing; Darling, you shall swing within the flower-garden.
In Bhadrapada the rivers and streams are full; I shall adorn a boat, and we shall drift joyfully upon the Kamala River.
In Ashvina autumn’s beauty comes, and moonlight spreads on every side; I shall arrange the rasa dance within the golden palace.
At Kartika’s second lunar day I shall celebrate and invite Shanti here; vajri sweets will be served upon a jeweled plate.
In Agrahayana I shall arrange a festival, showering you with ritual abuse; in such delight, why would you go to the house of your in-laws?”