Janaka Sends for Sita
Bala Kanda, Doha 246
Doha 246 · Movement 2 of 2
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Janaka judges that the appointed moment has arrived. The bow rests before the kings, the sages have taken their places, the galleries are full, and the heralded vow waits to become an act.
A message leaves the pavilion for the inner palace: bring Sita. Clever and beautiful companions receive the summons with reverence and gather around the princess to escort her toward the assembly.
Inside the women's chambers, ornaments are straightened, garments settle, and quiet voices turn toward the distant hum of the crowd. The movement is gentle, but the entire ceremony pivots upon it. Sita begins to walk from the sheltered palace into the gaze of kingdoms, carrying Gauri's blessing and Ram's form within her heart.
At Janaka's word, Sita's companions open the path from the palace to the bow.
Read the passage from the Manas
जानि सुअवसरु सीय तब पठई जनक बोलाई। चतुर सखीं सुंदर सकल सादर चलीं लवाईं।।246।।
Knowing the auspicious moment had arrived, Janaka then sent for Sita. All her clever, beautiful companions set out with reverence, escorting her.