Samrajya Lakshmi Pithika (Study)
by Artatrana Sarangi | 1984 | 120,842 words
This is a study in English of the Samrajya Lakshmi Pithika (written by Lolla Lakshmidhara). This text represents an encyclopedic manual for emperors, akin to ancient works like Yuktikalpataru and Manasollasa. The Samrajyalaksmipithika encompasses about 3870 verses in addressing topics such as public festivals, governance, warfare (military strategy...
Royal engagements at evening
[Full title: Royal routine (4) Engagements at Evening]
Appropriate rituals: At the onset of evening the king returned to his palace and performed rituals, appropriate for the time. His evening rituals are said to be consisting of a prayer to the sun-god, lighting of the sacrificial fire, listening to recitation of Bhagavata from a priest and also worshipping goddess Laksami (79.3-5). Brief session of Royal Assembly : Another important engagement was his attending a brief session of the Royal Assembly wherein are present court-jesters, vassal kings, singers, poets and flute and lute artists alongwith a number of gaily dressed people and courtezans. We learn that such people and courtezans were disposed by the king after acknowledging their service, with the gesture of the eye (6-15). Listening to reports from other parts of the state : Important business that are carried out during such sessions are mentioned to be consisting of king's discussion with the learned and the poets and his listening to reports from other parts of his state (samdesa-patrika) and his deliberations with concerned rulers (15-17).
458 After a day's hard work, it is but natural for a king to seek shelter in some entertainment. And a programme of dance which takes place soon after the conclusion of the evening session of the Royal Assembly provides most appropriate venue for the king to sooth his tired nerves.