Lotus Ponds and Koel Calls Invite Every Traveler to Rest
Uttara Kanda, Chhand 9
Doha 29 · Movement 2 of 3
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Wells, incomparable ponds, and broad reservoirs shine outside the city. Beautiful steps descend through perfect geometry toward water so clear that gods and sages become enchanted by the sight.
Lotuses of many colors cover the surface. Birds call across the banks, and bees weave a low humming among the opened flowers.
Beyond the water, delightful gardens gather the voices of koels and other birds. Their songs seem to call directly to travelers on the road, inviting weary feet to turn aside and rest. Ayodhya's beauty does not remain locked behind its walls. It reaches outward through shade, water, flower, and sound, offering refreshment before a visitor has entered the gates. The kingdom welcomes by making the landscape itself hospitable.
Before Ayodhya's gates appear, clear water and koel song have already welcomed the traveler in Rama's name.
Read the passage from the Manas
बापीं तड़ाग अनूप कूप मनोहरायत सोहहीं। सोपान सुंदर नीर निर्मल देखि सुर मुनि मोहहीं।। बहु रंग कंज अनेक खग कूजहिं मधुप गुंजारहीं। आराम रम्य पिकादि खग रव जनु पथिक हंकारहीं।।
Wells, ponds beyond compare, and charming expansive reservoirs shone with splendor. With beautiful steps and crystal-clear water, even the gods and sages were enchanted at the sight. Lotuses of many colors bloomed, birds sang sweetly, and bees hummed their low melodies. In the delightful gardens, koels and other birds called so beautifully that they seemed to beckon every passing traveler.