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Kaikayi's Swayamvar
179
As the day of the swayamvar approached about thirty kings and a number of princes arrived at Kautukmangal. King Shubhamati had made excellent arrangements for the stay of the visitors who came to attend the swayamvar. It was night. Cool breezes were blowing over the city. Peace reigned supreme everywhere. Some birds in the trees kept fluttering their wings.
The two yogis sat in the temple of Lord Shiva conversing together. Just then, suddenly four or five devotees came to the temple from the city. They saluted the yogis and sat near them.
"I think everything is going on well in the city. Has anything new happened ?"
"Gurudev ! Several kings, princes and potentates have come from other countries. The whole city is swelling with enthusiasm and joy". One of the visitors said with irrepressible enthusiasm.
“Has any special guest arrived today ?"
“Yes, Gurudev ! Emperor Harivahan of the northern kingdom who is renowned for his valour came today. Our king received him with great pomp and grandeur. What a splendid atmosphere prevailed at the time of the reception ! Oh! It is impossible to describe it. I do not find words to describe the splendour of the reception. We are coming from there. It is as if Kautukmangal has assumed a new form”.
Dasarath glanced towards Janak and was silent.
"Gurudev ! We hope that you too will attend the Swayamvar”. One visitor said looking towards the yogis.
“Why not? We have come from a long distance and it is only to see the Swayamvar that we have remained here for so many days. We would like to see the swayamvar since we have got this opportunity", Dasarath said smiling.
“True Gurudev ! Indeed, this Swayamvar is worth seeing. We do not know whom our princess will choose for her husband. We do not know which prince is fortunate as to be chosen by
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