“Dasharatha is fair and Kausalya is fair—why, then, is Rama dark? Listen, friend, to another astonishing event: the women of Ayodhya ate kheer and gave birth to children!
“Speak of this unspeakable matter, friend—the ways of Raghu’s line are extraordinary: Sagara’s wanton queen gave birth to sixty thousand sons! Sneh Lata says, ‘Do not take offense; these are only firm wedding taunts. When you leave Mithila laughing and happy, Mother will give you a grand farewell gift.’”
Kohbar Laughter — Pada 107
“Her grandfathers and great-grandfathers enter this family; she herself belongs to us. Whatever sort of guests they may be, why should anyone else concern themselves? One is free to do as one pleases with one’s own property—such is the law everywhere; they sold their own sister, so why should anyone else concern themselves?
“Their ancestress bore sixty thousand sons, yet why slander her? The woman who gives birth alone knows its pain and happiness—why should anyone else concern themselves?” All the beloved youths listen as taunt follows taunt, but what answer can they make? Sneh Lata smiles; embarrassed by the truth of the matter, they cannot speak.
Pati Dharai — Pada 108
“Beloved, who taught you this trick? Release the pathi; I have arranged this braid for cherished Siya’s brow. For twenty years it has remained upon her heart—today you have come into the house! Give the customary gift that pleases me; until you accept the rite, I, a daughter of Mithila, shall not let you go, O garland of my companions’ hearts.”
Hearing her, the bridegroom bursts into laughter, delighted by her stubbornness;