“My precious daughter is now at an age appropriate,

For marriage, to be given to a husband is she now fit.

But in qualities Sita is like no other,

The jewel of this earth is my beloved daughter.

Let me consult with my gurus and family,

Their opinion on the matter let me see.”

Hold a svayamvara, self-choice was what they advised,

With that King Janaka a contest with bow devised.

“Whoever can lift Mahadeva’s bow will win,

Hand of Sita, in whom exists not a hint of sin.”

Janaka was pious but devotion is what he followed,

To earn eternal fame and virtue for him this allowed.

Gained company of Rama, God in His sight,

He who married Sita, of the devotee’s heart delight.