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Kaikayi's Swayamvar
185
resplendent heroism by killing you; nor do I want to defame you. If you are intent upon fighting against me, well, bring your soldiers and commanders. Let us fight a war. Then you will surely see the miracle that the mendicant's hand can perform”.
In consequence, King Harivahan and all the other kings and princes who had gathered there began to fret and fume and went to their respective tents and began making preparations for the war. The atmosphere which was festive and jubilant became dark with the prospect of the war.
King Shubhmati also ordered his soldiers to get ready for a war. Dasarath, who was in the guise of a yogi, made a sign to Janak to discard his disguise. King Janak took Shubhmati with him to the secret chamber. There he hold King Shubhmati the truth about himself and Dasarath and put on the dress of a king. Shubhmati was unable to believe all this. Then Janak smiled a little and went to Dasarath, taking Shubhmati with him.
"Dear friend, we have to clear the suspicion of King Shubhmati".
"Dear King! Have you not recognised us? This is my friend Janak, the king of Mithila and I am...." he lowered his voice as he revealed the secret of his identity.
“And you are...? Shubhmati asked him with amazement. "I am his bosom friend". Dasarath said in a calm voice. “May I know your name ?”
"Not yet. You will know everything at the proper time. Now, let me teach a lesson to this haughty King Harivahan. What does he think of himself ? He seems to think that he is invincible".
Later, King Shubhmati and King Janak took up arms, sat in their chariot and entered the battle-field. Dasarath thought
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