Indian mythology · heroine · constancy, cleverness
The princess who chose the mortal Nala over the gods themselves, recognizing him because he alone cast a shadow. When ruin scattered them, it was her wit, announcing a second swayamvara no true husband would allow, that drew him back.
Damayanti chooses the mortal Nala over four gods who came disguised as him, knowing him because he alone casts a shadow. Possessed by the spirit of the fallen age, he gambles away his kingdom and abandons her in the forest; her cunning, and a second bride-choice no true husband would permit, win him back.