The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c10.58

c10.58

The consecration and its pomp are well-described in the Ayoghava Jātaka (IV, 492 et seq.) “What is my son's age?” asks a king. “He is sixteen years old,” reply the courtiers. The king determines to make over the realm to the prince who is brought out. The whole city is decorated from end to end. “They decked out the state elephant in magnificent caparison, and dressed the boy in his best, and placed him upon the elephant's back,” saying, “My lord, make a circuit rightwise about the rejoicing city, your inheritance, and salute your father the king of Kāsī; for this day you shall receive the White Umbrella.” After the procession the prince stood before the king. “What do you wish us to do?” asked the courtiers. “Take my son,” replied the king, “and put him on a pile of jewels, sprinkle him from the three conches, uplift the White Umbrella with its festoons of gold” (IV, 492 et seq.)