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314
JAIN RAMAYAN
“The two boys have mastered every branch of knowledge and every art of war."
“Dear brother! You have always bestowed your keenest attention on the boys and helped them to achieve these things."
“Noble lady! That is not true. What did I do for them ? I was always engaged in my duties relating to the administration of the kingdom. Actually, you brought them up with care and affection. You are their truest teacher and their mother in the truest sense !"
"No. No. O king! I did nothing. I was only an instrument. It is all the result of their punya (merit)”.
"That is true. Fascinated by their merit (Punya), I have made a plan for them.”
“What is it? O king !"
"I have thought of celebrating Lava's marriage with Shashichoola."
This unexpected suggestion made by Vajrajang threw Sita into deep reflection. Shashichoola was a beautiful princess. She was the daughter of King Vajrajang. She was a suitable bride for Lav in all respects. Sita was silent thinking whether the right time had come for the performance of Lava's marriage or not.
"Revered lady! Why are you silent ? Do you not like my idea ? Is not Shashichoola worthy of Lav ?
"O king! Why do you think so ? You are right in thinking of celebrating Lav's marriage. So, please do what you think proper. You are the well-wisher of the two boys."
"I wish to celebrate the marriage of Lay with Shashichoola and the other thirty-two princesses. I think, this is proper." Vajrajang secured Sita’s consent.
Sita's joy knew no bounds. King Vajrajang proceeded to the palace of Queen Lakshmivati in great delight and elation. He informed her of his an. She too was delighted to hear it. She
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