RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--CHAPTER 69

                                         RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—CHAPTER 69

                                                         JANAKA AND DASARATHA

The next morning, Dasaratha went to the council-chamber. He addressed the faithful Sumantra. “Let those in charge of the Royal Treasury start today in advance. Let them take with them large stores of gold and gems. The armies of our kingdom should be ready to march. As soon as I give my word, the armies of the elephant, horse, foot and chariot must be ready to march. The conveyances and baggage-vans should accompany them.  Kindly request the sages Vasishtha, Vamadeva, Jabali, kasyapa, and Markandeya to go in advance. And have my chariot ready as soon as you can. Janaka’s envoys are hurrying us. And we have already delayed too long.”

It was done. And in no time they were on the road. First, the sages went. Next, the king went. And the army followed behind. They marched by easy stages. On the fifth day, they sighted the region of Janaka. He was duly informed of their approach. He welcomed them right royally.

Soon Janaka met the aged monarch. His heart rejoiced at that. “Had your majesty a pleasant journey here?” Janaka inquired affectionately. “I am honoured by your visit to my humble place. Soon you will be rejoiced to see the laurels you boy has won. Has the sage Vasishtha and countless Brahmanas had a pleasant journey? I seem to behold again the ruler of the Celestials, Indra. I am sure my dark days are over. My race stands high in the esteem of the worlds. I have been fortunate to secure an alliance with the high-souled Raghus. The morning Sun rises on the last day of my sacrificial rite. And at its close I wish the wedding to be celebrated. The sages approve of it. And I add my own request.”

To this Dasaratha replied in apt words. He first had a meaningful glance at the sages around. “My friend,” he said, “the receiver of a gift does await the pleasure of the giver. You are to us the ideal of all virtues. And we are ever glad to abide by your directions.”

Janaka of Videha was struck with amaze at the reply of Dasaratha of straight speech. They parted for the night. And it was a pleasant time for the sages. They enjoyed unfeigned delight in the company of their brothers in wisdom. They were old friends and mates.

To the aged Dasarath it was the happiest time of his life. He could not gaze enough at his dear boys. And his eyes were never off their lovely faces. He was restored to his loved ones. Janaka had given a royal welcome and thus the night wore away too soon.

On his part, Janaka brought the sacrificial rite to a happy conclusion. Great was the glory of his spirit. For, he was the wisest of his age. And his eyes saw into the Heart of things. The winged hours passed swiftly. The hours passed in peace of heart and joyful anticipation.