Shashikala

One-line: princess who chooses Sudarshana before anyone else believes he can win.

First appears: Book 3, in Book 3 retelling.

Who they are: Shashikala is the princess of Benares whose choice drives the Sudarshana story. She hears of the exiled prince and chooses him inwardly, even though the political odds point elsewhere. Her insistence turns private devotion into public conflict.

What they do that matters:

• Chooses Sudarshana in her heart before the ceremony.
• Resists the expected political match.
• Marries Sudarshana after the Goddess protects him.

Other names: None in this storybook layer.

Family / lineage (when relevant): Daughter of King Subahu of Benares.