Mithila's Welcoming Army Sets Forth
Bala Kanda, Doha 304
Doha 304 · Movement 2 of 2
Keep this contemplation
Preserve, print, or share
News reaches Mithila that the magnificent procession is near, and the roll of its drums can already be heard across the distance.
Elephants, chariots, foot soldiers, and horsemen are adorned for welcome. This is no defensive force, though it possesses the full shape of royal power. Its purpose is reception.
The advance company leaves the city carrying Janaka's honour toward Dasharatha. Weapons, animals, uniforms, and ordered ranks are transformed by hospitality, becoming the outer splendour of an embrace between kingdoms. As the two companies draw close, the road prepares to hold not confrontation but recognition, gift, and shared joy.
Mithila sends royal strength onto the road, not to oppose Ayodhya, but to welcome it.
Read the passage from the Manas
आवत जानि बरात बर सुनि गहगहे निसान। सजि गज रथ पदचर तुरग लेन चले अगवान।।304।।
Learning that the splendid wedding procession draws near, hearing the thunderous roll of drums, Elephants, chariots, foot soldiers, and horsemen are adorned, and the welcoming party sets forth to receive them.