Within the jeweled pavilion he sits beside Sita, filled with beauty—the chosen bridegroom of Sita.
He performs the prescribed rites of the blessed wedding, a wondrous mine of marvels.
A jeweled crown and yellow garment adorn him; his flawless lotus-face is beyond reproach.
Dense vermilion shines upon his head like a gathering of lightning worshiping the sun.
A slightly opening sidelong glance beholds the joy of Janaki’s loveliness.
Bashful in the presence of his elders, he lowers his moonlike face in modesty.
The daughter of Janaka offers the auspicious sandal paste, her graceful hand adorned for the rite.
Raghuraja delights the assembly; beautifully arrayed, Raghunandana shines.
Pada 84
Raghubara is the bridegroom and Janaki the bride.
Their dark-blue and golden limbs are like lovely blue and yellow lotuses; every heart knows supreme delight.
A magnificent golden jeweled crown and a moonlike face—an abode of joy; it seems that a full radiant moon has risen upon the mountain of adornment.
Red javaka colors his feet, henna her hands, and collyrium their eyes; circling the golden vessel, they carry one another’s hearts and lives with them.
Cries of victory, auspicious songs, and the thunder of drums fill the city; gods and celestial women shower many-colored flowers.
The men and women of Janakpur are immersed in bliss, all awareness of themselves forgotten.
The youthful Lord of Sita’s house shines through boundless good fortune; the radiance of both families has reached its fullness.
Pada 85
Ramachandra as bridegroom appears so charming, so deeply pleasing— one cannot tell whether the weaver deserves the praise, or Ramachandra’s garments themselves.