Janaka is a prominent character in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He was the king of Mithila, a city in ancient India, and the father of Sita, who later became the wife of Lord Rama, the hero of the Ramayana.
Janaka was known for his wisdom and righteousness. He was also a great devotee of Lord Shiva and performed rigorous penances to attain spiritual knowledge. Janaka is often referred to as “Janaka Videha” in the Ramayana, which means “Janaka, the ruler of Videha Kingdom.”
Janaka played a crucial role in the Ramayana as he organized a competition to choose a suitable husband for his daughter, Sita. This competition was won by Lord Rama, who broke the bow of Lord Shiva and won Sita’s hand in marriage.
Janaka was also present during the marriage ceremony of Rama and Sita and he performed the kanyadaan ritual, which is the ritual of giving away the daughter in marriage. Throughout the Ramayana, Janaka is depicted as a wise, just, and compassionate king who upholds dharma (righteousness) and serves as a role model for others.