-when with Sita beside him Rama will take his seat on the golden throne and when the object of our desire will be accomplished?’ They all said, ‘When will tomorrow come?’ But the designing gods prayed that difficulties might arise.

The rejoicings at Avadh pleased them no more than a moonlight night pleases a thief. The gods called on Sarasvati and, laying hold of her feet, fell at them again and again and made their petition:

‘Perceiving our sore distress, O Mother, manipulate things in such a way today that Rama may depart to the forest, relinquishing his throne, and so he purpose of us immortals may be accomplished!’

When she heard the god’s petition, Sarasvati stood still and grieved, thinking, ‘I am a winter’s night to a bed of lotuses!’ Seeing her downcast, the gods spoke again in a suppliant tone, ‘Mother, not the least blame will attach to you;

-for the lord of Raghus is exempt from sorrow as from joy – you are fully acquainted with Rama’s mighty power. As for the people, every embodied soul is subject to pain and pleasure according to its fate. Go, then, to Avadh for the good of the celestials.’

Again and again they clasped her feet till she felt embarrassed and went, thinking, ‘The gods are a meanspirited crew; though they dwell on high, their doings are mean; and they cannot endure to see other'’ prosperity.’

Then, reflecting on the role she was destined to perform in the days to come, when worthy poets would seek her favour, she came with a cheerful heart to Dasharatha’s city, as if she were a star of evil influence, intolerable, causing woe.