Janaka of Mithilā

Janaka of Mithilā is also known as Sīradhvaja Janaka and as Vaideha Janaka. He was the philosopher-king of the Videha kingdom and the father of Sītādevī.

He is one of the most celebrated rājarshis (royal seers) of the ancient world. He was famous for his wisdom as a ruler and for his Vedic yajñas (fire rituals).

His place in the story of Sītā

Sītā’s svayaṃvara (the choosing of a husband) had one condition: the stringing of the Śiva-dhanus, the bow of Bhagavān Śiva. This condition brought Bhagavān Rāma to Mithilā.

His dynasty

His line is called the Mithilā Janaka lineage. It traces its beginning to the first Janaka, who was born in the lineage of Nimi Mahārāja.

All the details of Janaka of Mithilā are in the main account of Janaka. They cover his lineage, his role as a philosopher, the account of the Śiva-dhanus, and the four marriages.

Key accounts that involve Janaka of Mithilā

• The breaking of the Śiva-dhanus at Janaka’s dhanuryajña (the bow ritual).
• The Śiva-dhanus, the divine bow kept in Janaka’s court.
• The four marriages at Mithilā.

Sources

• The full account is given under Janaka.