Tales froM Indian Mythology

Author(s): A S Raman
Publisher: Kutub Popular

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Talès from Indian Mythology "Why do prínces seek love through bloodshed ? Sister, father will win. Let us examine that tender kadali (plantain) plant which was infested with pests yesterday."
Suddenly the blare of trumpets and the battle-cries were heard in the distance, and Sita and Urmila climbed the tallest tree in the garden to see what it was all about. Seized with a frenzy, the Four Arms of Janaka's forces the chariot unit, the elephant corps, the cavalry and the infantry—were on the march at a terrific speed, while the women from the housetops strewed flowers along their path and sprinkled anointed water on them. In a moment the scene faded into clouds of dust, and Sita and Urmila returned to the plants deeply concerned about the outcome of what they had seen.
The King Janaka inflicted a crushing defeat on Sudhanva who was slain. Janaka nominated his cousin Kusadhwaja successor to Sudhanva with the approval of the sages and citiborate proclamation that he would gladly give away his daughter from the reign of terror which Sudhanva had perpetrated on them for many years. Now Janaka decided to perform a sacrifice to commemorate his victory. But before doing so, he repeated his offer to princes all over the world through an elaborate proclamation that he would gladly gave away his daughter in marriage to the noblest, bravest and strongest prince in the world and the only test of the suitor's qualities would be provided by the Lord Shiva's bow which the King of Videha had inherited from his ancestors. Whoever wielded it, Janaka announced, would win the hand of Sita. His message reached the ends of the earth, and an interminable procession of princes crowding the streets of Mithila became a regular sight, but