2.1. Characterisation of King Ramavarma

King Ramaverma is the hero of the play. He is the king of Kerala (Cochin). He was born to his mother by the grace of the goddess Durge of Valapura who has prophesied that he would attain fame and glory higher then those of the lords of the directions (Ashtadikpeles). He is dhirodatta by temperament. He was born in en illustrious dynasty. He is valorous by nature. He has by the prowess of his arms vanquished in a trice many an alien king during his dik-viiaya. His fame and power have spread far and wide and many kings sought his aid in putting down their enemies. The Pandya king sought his aid as for instance. He is religious by temperament. He has earlier gone on a pilgrimage to the holy places like eidambara, Konchi etc. His current visit to the confluence of Konaka and Kaveri is also a pilgrimage in nature. He chances to meet the Vidyadhere princess Rasecandrike and the two fall in love with each other. After much sufferings, with the help of Kelemenjari end Kanaka, he wins the hand of the princess. But this makes his relations with his first wife Candralekha strained. In this matter also, he is helped by the two goddesses. 12. nirandhronnananakisalyasumanastoranastomamodhi- bhutacchayadumaudyah sughatitavividhopayanarthopakaryah ! 31121001121122110112121 21 21 21 121-4 kotiravyavaghatinutitamaniganaih sarkarastasya margah Ibid., Act. I, p.8

530 There is nothing striking in his character. Though he has been described as brave, no situation has been provided to him to display his valour. In the scene, where the vidushaka cries for help, the king is made to go to his aid armed with sword but he returned soon since the latter got, released from the clutches of the demon. He does not get a free hand to make an impact felt on the course of events in the drama. On the other hand, he appears as an instrument in the hands of the two goddesses to carry out some of their designs.