Chapter Eight: Literature of the Rasika Tradition in Hindi

Rama’s Beauty

Friend, beneath the kadamba tree Sita’s bridegroom shines among the young princes, crushing the pride of Cupid.
Sages’ minds are enchanted when they behold the incomparable sweetness of his every limb, from toenails to crown.
A lovely, glittering headdress adorns his head, with a flower bud tucked into it.
Smooth, curling locks gleam beautifully, resembling a congregation of excellent black bees.
A most beautiful saffron mark is painted upon his brow, beneath gracefully curving eyebrows.
They seem to form Cupid’s bow, accompanied by splendid golden arrows.
Jewelled earrings grace both ears, and a gem shines upon his nose.
His teeth are jasmine buds, his lower lip a crimson leaf, and his captivating smile is sweet.
Upon his broad chest a golden necklace gleams, strung with gems and pearls.
Jewelled armlets adorn his two arms, while bow and arrows shine beautifully in his hands.
His navel is deep and profound; above it a splendid pendant rests.
Yellow cloth encircles his waist together with a golden girdle; beholding it, even the Lord of Love is enchanted.

Swaying low and surging high beneath the kadamba tree, Sita’s bridegroom swings.
On the lovely bank of the Sarayu he sits with her who destroys the people’s sorrow and fulfils her beloved’s heart.
The joyous forest gives joy to the heart, friend, and trees of many kinds have blossomed.
Sandal, champak, jasmine, and kunda flowers make even the Lord of Love forget himself.
Fragrant rose and kadamba are so lovely that no celestial tree can equal them.
Clouds gather upon clouds, thunder beautifully, and pour down a pleasant rain.
Their hearts blossom as they swing upon a splendid golden swing studded with gems.
Adorned with flowers, Sri Sita and her beloved laugh softly together.
The companions sing and send the swing dipping and surging; beholding them, sages’ minds sink into absorption.
Every companion’s heart is filled with bliss, and all awareness and reason are forgotten.
Who can describe this beauty, friend? Nothing in the three worlds can equal it.
Ramnarayan’s dark-hued Lord dwells within every heart.

Knowing that the autumn season had come,
The Lord and his beloved arranged a delightful rāsa.
They put on garlands of gems and pearls;
Beautiful young women shine beside them.
The finest dancers dance resplendently,
And their anklets sound a sweet melody.