The proclamation of King Janaka of Videha had a profoundly pleasing effect upon the assembly present. Sage Vasishtha, endorsing the words of Sage Vishvamitra, spoke thus: “O King Janaka, the lineage of Ikshvaku and Videha is revered beyond measure, their renown stretching across the vast expanse of time. Their influence is unmatched and their virtues unparalleled. No dynasty stands in equal rank nor can rival their grandeur. The unions of Rama with Sita and Lakshmana with Urmila are exemplary, embodying an ideal that evokes admiration and envy alike.
Your virtuous nieces, Mandavi and Shrutakeerti, possess radiant qualities, grace, and impeccable decorum, making them suitable matches for Bharata and Shatrughna. In the name of King Dasharatha, I extend this proposal and entreat your consent. The sons of King Dasharatha are of exceptional bearing, learned, valorous, humble, and masters of their undertakings. Your daughters will find enduring happiness within this noble house.”
King Janaka, moved by this counsel, responded with deep respect: “O revered sage and protector, your wisdom guides us. I accept this proposal as your command. Mandavi shall be wed to Bharata and Shrutakeerti to Shatrughna. All four marriages shall be solemnized on the same auspicious day. O foremost among Brahmins, Vasishtha, I beseech you to oversee the sacred rites, assisted by your learned peers. The protective deity of lineage, Bhaga, now ascends through the auspicious star of Uttara, marking this as the perfect time for matrimony.”
Addressing the sages Vishvamitra and Vasishtha, King Janaka expressed heartfelt gratitude: “You have unburdened me of the responsibility of finding worthy matches for my daughters, uniting us with the great house of Ikshvaku. Your wisdom commands the reverence of our three kingdoms.” King Dasharatha, in full accord with the sentiments of the assembly, offered his blessings, saying, “May the divine Favor rest upon all.”
After exchanging salutations, the kings and sages departed to their respective abodes. In the early hours of the following day, sacred preparations commenced, with holy threads being tied around the wrists amidst Vedic chants. Thousands of cows, adorned with gilded horns and hooves, were gifted to the learned Brahmins. Land, gold, precious ornaments, and wealth in vast quantities were distributed to those deemed worthy.
King Dasharatha, surrounded by his sons, appeared akin to Brahma being honoured by the guardians of the world. His joy knew no bounds, having accomplished every formality under the meticulous guidance of Vasishtha and Vishvamitra. Amid the ceremonies, Yudhajeet, son of the brother of Shatrughna’s mother and ruler of the Kekaya kingdom, arrived and was respectfully greeted. With folded hands, he conveyed his father’s well-being and sincere wishes, explaining his journey to Ayodhya had revealed their presence in Mithila, prompting his visit.
Gratitude was expressed for his timely arrival. As the day’s rituals concluded, the assembly retired to rest. At dawn, they proceeded to the consecrated fire to complete the remaining rites before heading to King Janaka’s palace. Sage Shatananda announced that the four princesses had completed all preparatory customs and were prepared for the sacred nuptials. Vasishtha, implored to officiate the marriages, joyously invoked the deities, accompanied by Vedic hymns and the blessings of the assembled.
In a scene of solemn grace, the couples exchanged vows, witnessed by the assembled sages, teachers, and the heads of the royal families. The couples—Rama and Sita, Lakshmana and Urmila, Bharata and Mandavi, Shatrughna and Shrutakeerti—circumambulated the holy fire, sanctifying their union. The universe seemed to resonate with divine joy as celestial beings showered flowers and heavenly musicians filled the air with song and dance.
King Janaka and King Dasharatha, their hearts full, withdrew to their quarters, while Sage Vishvamitra offered his blessings before departing for the Himalayas. On the following day, before King Dasharatha commenced his journey back to Ayodhya, King Janaka presented a grand parting gift: four hundred thousand cows, twenty thousand elephants, one hundred thousand horses, along with untold quantities of gold, jewels, chariots, and a retinue of attendants.
Amidst the splendour and blessings of King Janaka, the newlyweds and their entourage set out for Ayodhya, accompanied by the affection and good wishes of the citizens and sages of Mithila. What further unfolds shall be revealed in subsequent accounts.