The assembly breathed a sigh of relief as Parashurama left. Seeta came shyly forward to offer the garland of victory to Rama. It was a joyous moment for all who were present. Messengers were sent to Ayodhya to inform Dasharatha and the queens. Dasharatha set off with the queens and his courtiers and the caparisoned elephants, horses and chariots and his soldiers, accompanied by musicians and drummers to the wedding of Rama and Seeta. When they reached Mithila, king Janaka received them warmly. Lavish arrangements had been made for the wedding. Rama was to marry Seeta and her sister Urmila was to wed Lakshmana. Janaka’s brother, Kushadhwaja, had two daughters, Mandavi and Shrutakirti. They were to marry Bharata and Shatrughna respectively. It was a grand celebration with joy spreading not only in the families but also in the two kingdoms. Even the gods blessed the couples.
Marriage of Rama and Seeta
