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saffron robes to elude the death, they were not actually fedup with the palace and its comforts. They were longing to return to their abodes to regain their crowns and scepters. They were therefore not ascetics in the truest sense of the term. An ailing person is often advised to consume only plain water of green grams, but this does not mean that he is fasting or penancing. Likewise, a wealthy man who
walks five kilometeres either to save money or keep himself fit, cannot be called a yogi, for his intension is not to undergo 'Penance that induces pain to the body.
Though apparently, both Dasaratha and Janaka looked like yogis, heart in heart they longed for power and grandeur.
Svayasvara of Kaikeyi
Moving through the forests, King Daśaratha and Janaka reached Uttarapatha. There, they learnt that the Svayamvara of Princess Kaikeyi was being organised by her parents King Subhamati and Queen Prthvisri of Kautukamangala nagara. The young princess, Kaikeyi, was not only ravishingly beautiful but also an expert and exponent in fine arts.
Svayamvara of Kaikeyi
"Svayamvara" was a very common practice amongst the blue blooded nobles in ancient India. The eligible bachelors from the surrounding states were invited for the svayamvara; the bride to be would then select the man of her liking and offer the garland to him. Sometimes, the invited princes were asked to perform a difficult feat; and the winner would marry the princess. A huge pandal was erected especially for Princess Kaikeyi's svayamvara. Reputed rulers like the emperor Harivāhana and many other handsome and eligible youth were invited for the svayamvara. Since, no one identified King Dasaratha and Janaka because of their disguise, they were made to sit in the last row.
Bedecked in the finest jewellery and bridal brocade, Princess Kaikeyi entered the pandal. She carried a garland in her dainty hands and was accompanied by a maid. Then began the quest for the prospective bridegroom.
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