66697602-The-Ramayana-R-K-Narayan

their eyes, was to note how swiftly Rama picked up the bow,
tugged the string taut, and brought the tips together. They
were startled when they heard a deafening report, caused by
the cracking of the bow at its arch, which could not stand the
pressure of Rama’s grip.
The atmosphere was suddenly relaxed. The gods
showered down flowers and blessings, clouds parted and
precipitated rains, the oceans tossed up in the air all the rare
treasures from their depths. The sages cried, “Janaka’s
tribulations and trials are ended.” Music filled the air. The
citizens garlanded, embraced, and anointed each other with
perfumes and sprinkled sandalwood powder in the air.
People donned their best clothes, gathered at the palace
gates and public squares, and danced and sang without any
restraint; flutes and pipes and drums created a din over the
loud chants and songs from many throats. Gods and
goddesses watching the happy scenes below assumed
human form, mixed with the crowds, and shared their joy.
“The beauty of our royal bridegroom can never be fully
grasped unless one is blessed with a thousand eyes,”
commented the women. “See his brother! How very
handsome! Blessed parents to have begotten such sons!”
Sita had secluded herself and was unaware of the latest
development. She moved from bed to bed for lack of
comfort, and lay beside a fountain on a slab of moonstone—