Verse thirteen of the Ramayana Chaupai
Avadpuri Raghunandan aiye, ghar ghar nari mangal gaiye
O to Ayodhya (Avadpuri) did Raghu return, in all houses the people became blessed
Barah varash biyaye Ram
Ram turned twelve years
Ram Siya Ram Siya Ram A jai jai Ram
The streets of Ayodhya are filled with excitement. Citizens look on, faces beaming with excitement and joy, filling every space available behind the royal procession line. The handsome princes and their beautiful brides, adorned in the finest ornaments, royal garments, and crowns make their way down the road at a stately pace. The horses and the chariots match the finery of the royal couples, studded with jewels, and embellished with delicately crafted gold harnesses and plates. The prices each held a grand bow of steadfast quality also fashioned from gold and encrusted with jewels. On their strong and beautiful backs rested matching quivers filled with arrows, balanced to perfection. Central to this show of martial superiority is the great bow of Vishnu, the Sharanga, held firmly by the Lord Rama. A triumphant melody played “Ram Siya Ram Siya Ram A jai jai Ram!” and conch shells sounded as the event continued. Truly a sight to behold, our dear Lord Rama returns to Ayodhya in victory from his first journey in the world!