उत्तररामचरितम् (महाकवि भवभूति - संस्कृत मूल एवं हिन्दी व्याख्या)

-IV 15] UTTARARĀMACHARITA. 213 say—This is the daughter in law of our mighty ancestors of the race of Raghu but as Janaka's daughter she is only a daughter to us. Kanchuki —It was as the queen says. (Verse 16) Although the king had five children the foe of Sambhu was especially dear to him and although he had four daughters- in law Sītā was as dear to him as his own daughter Śāntā. Janaka —Oh my dear friend great king Daśaratha! That thou art in every way dear to my heart how can I forget thee? (Verse 17) Ordinarily the parents of the girl honour the near relations of their son in-law; in our connection that was inverted; thou didst strive to please me, thou being such hast been snatched away by Death, and Sītā also the cause of our connection, but curses on this my life, a sinner in this horrible hell of a world. Kausalyā —Daughter Sītā what am I to do? This cursed life firmly abiding firm and fastened with adamantine cement does not leave me wretched woman that I am. Arundhatī —Take comfort, princess; occasionally one must even desist from tears: moreover don't you remember what your family preceptor said at the hermitage of Rish- yasringa that what was fated to happen took place but that it would end in good? Kausalyā —How can I expect such a thing, all whose hopes are past fulfilment? Arundhatī —Then what dost thou think, princess? Do you think that it was a false utterance? Surely it will come to pass, thou oughtest not indeed to think otherwise, noble matron of the Kshatriya race. (Verse 18) Let there be no doubt with respect to the utterance of Brāhmanas to whom the supreme light is revealed, for an excellent fortune waits upon their word, they speak not an ineffectual speech. (A great noise behind the scenes. All listen.) Janaka —Oh! to-day being a holiday in honour of guests, it is the noise of boys engaged in unrestrained sport. Kausalyā —Indeed, childhood is the time when joy is easily attained. (observing) Ha! who is this in their midst that refreshes my eyes with proud limbs, beautiful and soft, adorned with grace like that of dear Rāma when young? Arundhatī —(with tears of joy, to herself) This is that secret like ambrosia to my ears communicated to me by