“Astonished, they gaze upon the bride and bathe in an ocean of bliss. They grow weary searching the three worlds, but find no beauty equal to Siya’s. Even the consorts of the gods are abashed before the Lord of Kosala’s bride; whoever sees her face forgets the customary gift, unable to steady her heart. Disguised as companions, Girija, Saraswati, and Indira come openly for the sight. Beholding her face, even Sri Raghuraja relinquishes all pride in his own beauty.”
Savaiya
Seeing the bride radiant as a lamp, Gauri’s pride in beauty dissolves like a river; the house is filled with hundreds of companions, while every desired perfection seems to stand watching in all directions. All the countless worlds tire themselves seeking another face fit to rival Siya’s, but find none. Placing Raghunandana—the jewel himself—into Siya’s hands, her mother-in-law, though shy, still gazes upon that face.
Chumavan in Ayodhya — Pada 157
“Mother, the barber-woman has been summoned by name to perform chumavan for the daughter and Raghubara. The courtyard has been plastered and perfumed with sandal; auspicious floor designs have been drawn with elephant pearls.
“Women hurry in bearing auspicious, brimming pots, glowing like rubies, Mother. Rama shines in yellow silk, with Sita seated at his right. Mother Kausalya sits to perform chumavan for Sita and Sri Rama.”
The Showing of the Bride’s Face — Pada 158
What a wondrous doll appeared at the showing of her face!
In the courtyard of Kanak Bhavan a vast crowd has gathered; thousands of queens arrive in their carriages.