Finally, the day of Sita’s swayamvar had arrived. Princes Rama and Laxman visited Janaka’s palace along with sage Vishwamitra. Many kings and princes from far and wide came to attend the swayamvar of the princess. King Janaka called his minstrels and asked them to announce the condition of swayamvar. The minstrels then announced loudly that the king had a very large and heavy bow gifted to him by Lord Shiva. Whoever could lift the bow and string it, would marry Sita. The kings and the princes came one by one in turns and tried to lift the bow but none could successfully do so. Janaka was disappointed seeing all this. Just then, Rama got his turn. He tried his strength and picked the bow up. While he was trying to string Shiva’s bow, it accidentally broke with a thunderous sound. Everyone was surprised at Rama’s great strength and courage. Janaka had found a perfect suitor for Sita. Princess Sita reached near prince Rama and put the wedding garland around his neck. Seeing this sight, the gods started showering flowers from the heavens. The whole kingdom was filled with joy. Queen Sunaina’s joy knew no bounds and tears of happiness rolled down her cheeks.
SITA’S SWAYAMVAR
