A long time ago in the kingdom of Mithila, there lived a princess named Sita. She was not only beautiful but also wise and full of courage. Her father, King Janaka, loved her very much and wanted her to marry someone who was just as noble and strong.

Now here’s a secret—when Sita was just a little girl, she once lifted a mighty bow that even great warriors could not move. This bow was called Pinaka, and it had belonged to Lord Shiva, one of the most powerful gods. It was so huge and heavy that even the strongest kings couldn’t lift it!

So, King Janaka made a special rule: “Only the man who can lift and string Pinaka, Lord Shiva’s bow, will marry my daughter Sita.”

And that’s how the great Swayamvara (a contest ceremony for choosing a husband) was announced all over the land!

News of Sita’s Swayamvara contest spread like wildfire. Princes, kings, and mighty warriors from far and wide came to Mithila. They were dressed in shining armor and came with dreams of marrying the wonderful Princess Sita.

But when they saw Pinaka, their eyes went wide! It was enormous, strong, and made by the gods. One by one, they tried—some pulled, some pushed, and some even grunted and groaned—but not one of them could lift it.

Then came a young prince named Rama, the prince of Ayodhya. He was strong, calm and humble. He was accompanied by his wise teacher, Sage Vishwamitra and his loving brother, Lakshmana.

People whispered, “Can this gentle prince lift the mighty Pinaka?”

With a peaceful smile, Rama stepped forward, bowed to Lord Shiva’s bow, and gently placed his hands on it.

To everyone’s surprise, Rama lifted the bow with ease! A hush fell over the crowd. Then, slowly and steadily, Rama began to string Pinaka.

Suddenly—CRACK! The bow broke into two with a thunderous sound that echoed across the sky! The earth shook, and everyone stood in awe.

King Janaka was overjoyed. “This is truly the hero worthy of my daughter!” he exclaimed.

Princess Sita smiled and came forward with a beautiful garland of flowers. She gently placed it around Rama’s neck, choosing him as her husband.

The crowd cheered, drums rolled, and flowers rained from the sky! And that’s how Rama and Sita were married. Their story was to become one of the most cherished love stories of all time.