Chapter Eight: Literature of the Rasika Tradition in Hindi

Companion, his curls entangled my life, while the hard shower of his eyes wounded and departed.
He covered my breast with the marks of his nails, companion, and left behind his own identifying sign.
Since then nothing pleases me; the anguish of separation has consumed my body.
The battle of the enemy Love left me helpless, companion, while Hari’s face and form disappeared.

Who could see the sweetness of Awadh’s prince, companion, and not become absorbed in rasa?
Without meeting him I find no peace for even an instant; every blink passes like an age.
I shall now openly choose my beloved, companion, and every fear of family will flee.
The seed of attachment has been sown immovably within Ramsakhe’s heart.

Upon a crystal slab beside the Mandakini, the Couple sport—Raghupati, mountain of courage.
Flowers are artfully arranged, auspicious breezes blow, and crowds of honeybees hum in their intoxication.
His body is a pleasure-giving blue rain cloud, adorned by many-coloured flowers and jewels.
Janaka’s daughter, profound treasury of beauty, shines lightning-fair, a crest of happiness.

Flower ornaments and anklets adorn her feet while companion Chandrakala sings with steady skill.
They dwell beneath a garland-bower beside the water, its famous vine canopy dense and still.
Companions adorned with jewels, gems, and diamonds sing and dance, removing the heart’s pain.
Flower pollen becomes red powder, peacocks dance, and cuckoos and parrots call.

Yellow cloth rests beside the lotus feet, treasury of milk-white radiance; the lord of seasons smiles and separation flees.
Like the god of love embodied as a warrior, he tightens his quiver for the conquest of the universe.
Keep this vision profoundly secret and unstirred, says Ramsakhe, within the supreme bower of the mind.

The beloveds dine together, increasing every auspicious joy.
They place morsels in one another’s moon-like mouths and smile gently.
Vimala serves many kinds of food while Kamala waves the fan.
Their ocean of beauty cannot be described; the bower of sweetness delights the heart.

Chandrakala washes their hands and offers Sarayu water for rinsing.
Ramsakhe prays that a little of the Lord’s excellent remaining prasāda may become his good fortune.

Rama and his beloved perform ācamana.
Shyama stands holding betel, while Rama holds the water ewer.
Chandravati holds up a mirror, with delicate Chandrakala beside her.
Subhaga carries the beloved’s outer garment, while another companion holds Sita’s sari.

Having performed ācamana, they sit upon a pleasant seat, bestowing happiness upon all.
Ramsakhe gives himself again and again before the Couple, gazing upon their beautiful faces.