Janaka Sees No Victor Worthy of Sita
Bala Kanda, Doha 251
Doha 251 · Movement 2 of 2
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The prize before the assembly contains every promise a warrior might desire: a beautiful princess, immense victory, and fame that would travel through kingdoms. Nothing in Janaka's vow lacks magnificence.
Yet the bow lies unmoved, and the royal seats are filled with defeated men. Looking across the hall, Janaka feels as though Brahma has created no one capable of mastering the weapon and receiving Sita's hand.
His conclusion rises from what the senses have shown him, but one prince remains seated beside his guru, untested and unannounced. The apparent absence of a worthy victor is only the final darkness before Vishwamitra speaks. What Janaka cannot yet see is already present within the pavilion.
Janaka sees no worthy victor, while the destined hand still rests quietly beside the sage.
Read the passage from the Manas
कुअँरि मनोहर बिजय बड़ि कीरति अति कमनीय। पावनिहार बिरंचि जनु रचेउ न धनु दमनीय।।251।।
A beautiful princess, a great victory, fame most lovely to behold. Surely Viranchi did not fashion anyone in his heart worthy of winning her.