Lakshminidhi’s beloved, crown of the clever, reflects within her heart and says: “Listen, beloved of my life—we stand on your side. If you win, my friend’s daughter wins; and if by chance you should lose, even then we shall declare you victorious”—thus both treasure the thought in their hearts.
Each lays a loving snare at the other’s turn, and the wanderer of Ayodhya is caught; then the delicate maiden eagerly makes her move, conquering her lover’s heart.
Kohbar Laughter — Pada 104
In the lovely kohbar chamber sit the four bridegrooms, friends; an exuberant springtime of laughter and jest has blossomed there. Young women like lotus buds surround them on every side, while the four beloved companions sit enthroned in their midst.
Graceful women wave yak-tail fans, wild with beauty; others feed them fragrant betel laden with many spices. Everyone sits upon the floor in a circle—it is wonderfully entertaining; joy and pleasure flow there beyond all measure.
Darling Siddhi says, “Friends, listen to the ways of Ayodhya: in Raghu’s line even men become pregnant! Once there lived the virtuous King Bahuka; when word reached the women’s quarters, a great clamor arose.
“Sudyumna became a woman—what astonishing generosity! Ila was known as a wanton lover and produced a son by her paramour. For thirty days a woman, for thirty a man—