Ramayana_VOLUME V with index

321
Janaka
Janaka Said, “My brother Kusadhwaja is much more to me than
a brother. I revere him as a divine personality. He is more of a
friend to me than a brother. I brought him up with such love and
affection that I have developed great attachment to him. Years
ago, when the King of Sankasya demanded that I should yield
the Bow of Shiva to him or else meet him in battle, I refused and
he laid siege to Mithila City. This was the signal for a bitter war
between us during which Sudhanva was killed and I made my
brother the ruler of Sankasya. That City is shining bright on the
banks of the Ikshumathi River. Seen from afar, it reminds one of
the Celestial Chariot of the Gods, famous as the Pushpaka
Vimana! Let me tell you now of another auspicious idea that the
Gods have inspired in me.
“I have brought him here today so that he might share in the joy
of the wedding celebrations, Brahmarishi! You commanded that
Rama wed Sita and Lakshmana wed Urmila, the other daughter
of mine. I accept the command with immeasurable joy. Sita is a
celestial damsel and she will wed Rama as the Hero’s gift. I shall
bow my head in all humility and gladness and give away Urmila
to Lakshmana.
“I have another representation to make now for your
consideration. Maharaja Dasaratha! You have four sons all born
of the same heavenly gift of Grace. Why allow two to remain
single It will contribute to our happiness fully if they too are
wedded. It is the asterism of Magha today.
This is a good day to commence the rites and have the
preliminary ceremonials. The day after, under the asterism