Long ago in the kingdom of Mithila, King Janaka held a grand swayamvar — a ceremony where his daughter Sita would choose her husband. The challenge was set: only the one who could lift, string, and break the great bow of Lord Shiva, called Pinaka, would marry Sita.

Many strong kings and princes tried, but the bow was so heavy that none could even lift it. Then came young Prince Ram of Ayodhya with his brother Lakshman and their guru, Sage Vishwamitra.

When Ram's turn came, he walked gracefully to the bow, bowed in respect, and lifted it with ease. As he tried to string it, the great bow snapped in two with a sound that shook the heavens. Sita stepped forward and placed the garland of victory around Ram's neck.