srimadramayanam-02-sriayodyakandam

7/29/2019 SrimadRamayanam-02-SriAyodyaKandam

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By Shri. Sridharan Lakshmanan
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AYODHYA KANDAM

This book deals with an individual, duty fulfilled by observance of customs or law or morality.

A particular moral excellence. Purely my perspective and has neither noticeable authority nor

mention in the SRIMADH VALMIKI RAMAYANA. Lord Dasaratha decides to anoint Sri Rama

as the Prince Regent and cites the signs of evil portents (which he refers to) and in a hurry

he neither invited the King of Kekaya, Bharatas maternal grandfather nor the king Janaka

and reconciled himself with the thought the two monarchs would hear the delightful news

afterwards. Was the evil portent, the lure of the kingdom presumed to be in Bharatas mind or

was the emperor of the view fait accompli is the best course for avoiding difficulties even in the

cases of persons like Bharata. Destiny laughs at those who plan. Is it!!

Or was the unease in Dasarathas conscience the promise he made to Kaikeyis father to bestow

the kingdom of Ayodhya in favour of her issue as the best price for the marriage. (Verse 3, sarga

107). Was it real the thought of coronation was instantaneous, possibly not; (verse34 sarga14)

water was brought from places wherever water was held sacred, I like to think that Dasaratha

had thought of this ceremony before hand?

In the event of the king of Kekaya, and king Janaka being invited to attend the coronation

ceremony. Bharata and Shatrugna would have naturally accompanied their maternal

grandfather and the presence of all of them would have confirmed the installation of Sri Rama

as the prince Regent and the whole course of history would have altogether changed. For, then

Sri Rama would not have proceeded to the forests and the very purpose of incarnation would

have been rendered void. In order to obviate this contingency the Gods turned the otherwise

virtuous mind of Dasaratha and deterred him from inviting the king of Kekaya and king Janaka,

two of his nearest relations to the installation ceremony. To us the ordinary mortals the

message is never begin an auspicious ceremony with a stained mind and convoluted logic.I hasten to write with all the emphasis at my command and sincerity the foregoing observations

of mine are relevant only to the limited extent of imbibing lessons from this great epic and not

in any way to project something original. I always believe that this great epic cannot be judged

by small minds and certainly I do not want to be irreverent even remotely. This Kanda is also

referred to Dharma Kandam.

Ayodhya Kandam Sarga 1:

Dasratha decides to install Sri Rama as prince regent:

Bharata has set off to his maternal grandfathers (king Asvapathi) house in the company of

Shatrugna (Shatrugna, meaning slayer of foes and this word is repeated as an exhaustiveepithet) where they were entertained with love and care, even so, the aged father Dasaratha

was always in their mind, nor could the aged emperors mind drift away from his sons who vied

in glory with mighty Indra and Varuna. All the four princes gripped his heart, however his

darling was the eldest child, the most noble, and endowed with all excellences, akin to the God

whom we all adore. Sri Rama was the lord of all virtues, he was beautiful, strong, not tainted

with covetousness, he was a mild-mannered soul, elegant in speech, not provoked by taunts,

always loved the sages, respected people for their virtues and age and pitied the wretched. Sri


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Rama was wise, modest, pure, kept his passions under strict restraint ever vigilant in attending

to his duties, devoted his spare time in the study of traditional knowledge and being

affectionate was loved by all men, he was the adversary of the malevolent,. Though a master of

eloquence he never indulged in profane talks and his keen memory and ready tact propelled

him into prompt action. Skilled in martial arts he was a unique bowman; skilled as well in the

missiles propelled by mystic spells and was proficient in aggression and resistance and an

accomplished charioteer who could not be overpowered in an encounter even by the enraged

gods and demons. Sri Rama fulfilled all sacred vows, had mastered all sciences, duly studied all

the four Vedas, including the branches of knowledge supplementary to them, he proved

himself superior to his father, resplendent Sri Rama with these virtues was the beloved of all

Ayodhya and a delight to his father. He was conversant with the methods of tapping the

sources of income without oppressing the people, a master of political economy; he was

knowledgeable in meting out punishments and bestowing special treatment according to the

principles of equity. How should Sri Rama be crowned the king during my life span, when shall

I actually behold my son installed in the office of Prince regent? was the supreme desire

agitating the mind of the aged emperor. Also Dasaratha was haunted by the evil portents andagony caused by the thought of old age and impending death, he concluded it was his duty to

seize the hour, make haste for the installation of Sri Rama as prince Regent. He summoned all

his ministers the prominent citizens of various cities as also the rulers of different parts of the

globe to be present on the occasion of the installation of his son Sri Rama as the prince regent.

In the hurry however Dasaratha neither invited the King of Kekaya, (Bharatas maternal

grandfather), nor king Janaka but consoled himself with the thought that the two monarchs

would hear the delightful news subsequently. To the assembled kings, dignitaries, Dasaratha

bestowed his attention and in the august assembly of the kings and peerages king Dasaratha

shone like the glorious Indra.

Ayodhya Kandam Sarga 2Assemblys response to Dasarathas thoughts:

The monarch spoke to the assembly, in sonorous accent the following wholesome words; This

well known kingdom in the Ikshvaku line was protected with paternal care by various Ikshvakukings; following in their path I had toiled for sixty thousand years and was never laidback in

the matter of the welfare and bliss of all my people. Worn out and enfeebled by old age, I can

scarcely bear the toil imposed on the ruler; I long for rest and in my place I set my eldest sonSri Rama who has all my attributes and is a compeer of Indra and is a worthy lord. The country

will be well ruled by such a king of supreme bliss and happy fate, and also my heart will not

nurse any grievance if Sri Rama receives this precious charge and for myself I would havesecured rest. If this arrangement of mine seems well advised, give your consent; otherwise

point out any other constructive options contemplated by you; because the viewpoint of the

dispassionate is different and is of much greater value, as it is the outcome of two conflictingviews (contention). The assembly comprising, kings, peasants, townsman, learned sages

chiefs and the generals collectively responded, Emperor, you have ruled this land without

fault for thousands of years, we plead with you to anoint your gallant, brave and strong SriRama as the prince regent. Hearing the aforesaid reply Lord Dasaratha posed this query to the

assembly Please explain truthfully why you would while I am reigning righteously, want my


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eldest son Sri Rama to bear with me his part as ruling heir? The assembly made the following

apt reply O emperor, we find Sri Rama is righteous, is blessed with grace, is ever truthful, his

glory is never ending. Sri Rama is skilled in the use of celestial arms, he is supreme in war andis unconquered by man, fiend or god, he is always victorious in battle. He is beloved of friends,

servants, teachers and saints and is like a father (to share the joys) to all. Sri Rama is endowed

with filial virtues and everyone prays for his health, strength and longevity. O king Dasarathado lend your gracious ears to our earnest prayers and for our well being install the God like Sri

Rama who seeks the good of all as the heir regent.

Ayodhya Kandam Sarga 3

Dasarathas counsel to Sri Rama:

The emperor responded to the supplication of the congregation thus, It gives me immensepleasure and fulfillment that this assembly has revealed absolute liking to my desire to install Sri

Rama as the Prince Regent. Dasaratha next addressed Vasistha and Vamadeva in a voice

intended that all in the assembly might hear, to prepare in haste all needful things that areconsidered necessary to anoint Sri Rama as the heir and this evoked from the audience rapturous

tumult in approval. Hearing the submission of Dasaratha, the foremost of the sages Vasistha,commanded the ministers present before the emperor with detailed instructions on theprocurement of and keeping the entire requisites ready next morning. After the detailed briefing

of the sages to the ministers and the servants, the foremost of the sages informed the emperor

that everything has been done as deliberated. Next Dasaratha summoned the minister Sumantra

with instruction to fetch Sri Rama to the palace immediately. Sri Rama hastened to his father onhearing the communication from the charioteer minister, the sight of Sri Rama seated besides

Sumantra in the chariot enchained the hearts and vision of the onlookers. Dasaratha who vied

with Indra in grandeur, his face turned effulgent and his eyes gleamed with joy even as hegreeted his dear son who lay prostrate at his feet as a mark of deference (a customary mark of

respect to a superior). As soon as Dasaratha saw the modest prince Sri Rama, he hastily raised

him by the hand, heartily embraced him and offered him a splendid seat. In this splendid seatillumined by his own effulgence the assembly shone brightly as on autumnal sky spangled with

bright planets and stars illumined by the moon. The joyous aged monarch with pride addressed

his son, Kausalyas pride, and the eldest amongst the princes, this congregation has beenappreciative of your excellences, peoples heart are fixed firmly in your grace, you are to accept

the office of the prince regent tomorrow. By nature you are modest and abundantly rich in your

every disposition, you need no counsels from me, my son. Out of pure affection I advise you toresort to greater humility, and rule the senses that springs from lust and anger, discretely train

your every nerve to gain the love of the ministers and the subjects and maintain an itinerary and

let your soul refrain from all that is not good. The friends of Sri Rama intent of gratifying the

member of the aristocracy ran to Kausalya to convey the pleasant tiding and were rewarded with

precious gifts. After paying the due reverence Sri Rama returned to his dwelling and thosegathered there took leave of the emperor and returned to their homes and suitably worshipped

the Gods in order that the installation as the Prince regent be concluded without hindrance. . (Thevices born of lust are, hunting playing at dice, sleeping by day, slandering others, fondness for

women, vanity, love of singing, playing musical instruments, dancing and strolling about idly.

The vices born of anger are tale bearing vindictiveness, jealousy, sensuousness, squanderingones patrimony, abusive speech, and cruelty in punishment)



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Dasarathas foreboding, summons Sri Rama:

(While marrying Bharatas mother Kaikeyi, the emperor promised the king of Kekaya,Asvapathi, as the price of highest value for the marriage, the sovereignty of Ayodhya will

descend to the son that might be born of her {Verse 3, sarga 107}. Perhaps the emperor is

apparently referring here to this promise made by him and suspects that Bharata might press hisclaim for the ruler ship of Ayodhya if Sri Rama is installed as prince regent in his presence.)

Conferring with his counselors; the Emperor arrived at the decision; on the auspicious morrow

his eldest son lotus eyed Sri Rama will be anointed the prince regent. He instructed the

charioteer minister Sumantra Again bring Sri Rama, without delay Sumantra rushed to SriRamas abode to tender the emperors order. Renewed call form the emperor induced anxious

doubts and fears in Sri Ramas mind, who in his turn asked Sumantra to tell the basis of fresh

summon without any deduction. Sumantra replied thus, Prince your father required yourpresence and it is up to you to heed or not. When Sri Rama heard Sumantra speak thus he hied

to the royal court and from a distance he paid his obeisance to his father. Emperor Dasaratha

fondly embraced his Sri Rama and pointed to a seat to be seated and eager to speak the emperorbegan In my long life I had the best of joys and am free from any unaccomplished desires, I

have done all that was obligatory on my part, I have only one duty to perform, whilst my senses,thoughts and will are unimpaired; that duty is to crown you the prince regent. Evil omens portraydire woes including my death and I dread such visions haunting me every night. My darling son

Sri Rama on the morrow I have to anoint you Prince Regent, fickle is the judgment of human

mind, my mind is urging me to expedite things and on the morrow I will positively sanctify youas the heir regent and your installation as the prince regent in my opinion Sri Rama must take

place during the interval when Bharata is away from Ayodhya. You and Sita strictly fast and

refrain from worldly thoughts, and let your trusted friends vigilantly guard you on all sides this

night. Mind of the righteous rejoices only in action not in speculation, Bharata scrupulouslyabides by the conduct of righteousness, he is of pious mind and full of compassion he has got his

senses under control, yet the mind of men is nevertheless unpredictable. Now, Sri Rama

tomorrow is fixed for the coronation, my son depart now. After paying due obeisance to hisfather Sri Rama hastily proceeded to his abode, not finding Sita there he went to his mothers

mansion, where he saw his mother Kausalya devoutly praying to all the Gods to protect her Sri

Ramas royal fortune. At that moment after hearing of Sri Ramas installation Sumitra,Lakshmana, and Sita were already there. Approaching Kausalya whose every thought was fixed

on the supreme God, Sri Rama said, Father has decreed that tomorrow I will be anointed prince

regent, Sita and myself have to spend this night fasting, my sweet mother you undertake forSitas and my own sake whatsoever vows that may be deemed necessary for the fruition of the

consecration. Kausalya in a tone rendered indistinct by tears of joy, addressed Sri Rama, I am

gratified to note that the travails undertaken to propitiate Lord Vishnu by me have not gone invain and it is by virtue of it that the royal fortune enjoyed by the Ikshvaku race is going to

embrace you. Sri Rama then turned to his brother Lakshmana you must be the joint ruler, toknow the joys that flow from the royal power, I desire to live and even rule for your sake,

thereafter bowing low to his mothers Kausalya and Sumitra with Sita Sri Rama went to his ownresidence.


Sri Ramas fast:

After having instructed Sri Rama on the observance of vows prior to his installation as the prince


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regent, the emperor next summoned Sage Vasistha to guide Sri Rama and Sita on the observance

of fasts to be undertaken for removing all obstacles in his acquiring the sovereignty. The

foremost of the sages proceeded quickly to Sri Ramas residence to explain to him the principlein the observance of this vow as prescribed in the lore. The sage drove in his chariot through

the enclosures of the palace of Sri Rama, and on coming to know of the arrival of the sage at his

palace Sri Rama respectfully rushed to the chariot, lent his hand to assist the Sage to get downfrom his seat and escorted him inside. Pleased with Sri Ramas civility, the kings preceptor

spoke thus Sri Rama you are to be anointed the prince regent on the morrow. Now for the night

you and Sita observe the fast as ordained in the scriptures, saying so Vasistha described in detailthe manner of adherence to the vow as prescribed in the texts. Appreciating the respect shown

to him, the preceptor of the king; duly took leave, came out of Sri Ramas palace, he found

Ayodhya thronged with multitudinous joyous men and women making the streets impassable.

The streets of Ayodhya were thoroughly swept, sprinkled with fragranced water, the city shonearrayed with flowers, garlands, and banners, the noise of the inquisitive crowd involved in

banter, and glad acclaim sounded like the roar of oceans tide, all of them were eagerly looking

forward to the installation of Sri Rama as Prince Regent. After the departure of the venerable

saint, Sri Rama took leave of his friends. Advancing slowly through the mighty crowd SageVasistha reached Dasarathas abode and conveyed to the emperor that the assigned tasks were

duly carried out. Sage Vasistha and all the peers withdrew from the palace and the emperorstrode to his abode, which was splendid as the radiant towers


Ayodhya decorated:

After the departure of Sage Vasistha, Sri Rama duly bathed, his mind withdrawn from worldly

thoughts, along with Sita he sought Lord Vishnus blessings. For the pleasure of the supremedeity, with due veneration he consigned the ghee in the cup to the sacred fire and after tasting

the remainder of that offering, both Sri Rama and the Videhan princess lay down that night on

the holy grass spread on the floor, contemplating on holy Narayana. The following morning,waking up early he requested the men and women to adorn his palace and the temple hall for the

solemn occasion. {The deity referred to here is believed by respected commentators to be Lord

Ranganatha, who had been worshipped by a long line of Ayodhya rulers, this deity was handedover by Sri Rama to Vibhishana through whom it reached Srirangam near Tiruchirapalli.} In

the morning clad in pure linen robes his head bent low in reverence he recited the hymns for the

morning rites {Sandya Vandana} he sang in loud tones the praise of lord Vishnu, also he heardthe bards and heralds echo auspicious strains of joy and praise, and the recitation of solemn

hymns from the Brahmanas resonated through the crowded streets of Ayodhya. As soon as

the dawn appeared all the citizens began decorating the city of Ayodhya, with holy leaves and

gay banners floated in all the temples, at the busy crossways, in open squares, in every lamp

posts and in the merchants shops. On the occasion of Sri Ramas installation the main road ofAyodhya was strewn with offerings of flowers and perfumed with the whiff of incense by the

citizens of Ayodhya. Having decorated the city in festal dcor, conversation at every squarecentered on Sri Ramas noble grace and sinless mind of the celebrated Dasaratha. Pressed by

the eager citizens longing to witness the consecration of Sri Rama, Ayodhya presented a sea of

humanity. Everywhere was heard, The great Ikshvaku king feeling the increasing weight of hisage makes his son the Associate, this choice will bring great joy to us for Sri Rama knows what

is good and bad, he is prudent, just and gracious, we long and look for his long reign, the city of


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Ayodhya looked like the sea-water infested with aquatic creatures


Mantharas distress:

(We read in Padma Purana, A celestial nymph, Manthara by name was deputed by the Gods to

carry out their mission in the form of sending Sri Rama into exile and thereby bringing about thedestruction of Ravana. She was given away by the king of the Kekaya territory as a maid-servant

to Kaikeyi.) Perchance, Manthara, a maid of Kaikeyi, ascended the roof of Kaikeyis palace,

observed the well decorated Ayodhya rendered noisy on all sides, thronged by excessivelydelighted men. Heaps of fresh flowers, costly flags and pennons were hung on the roof tops,

the royal street of Ayodhya was resonant with sounds raised by musical instruments, and

echoed the chanting of the Vedas by the distinguished scholars. Seeing Ayodhya brimming withoverjoyed citizens, and the well decorated glittering doors of the temples, she asked the former

nurse of Sri Rama, Please tell me the reasons for the rare delight that I see all round, why is

empress Kausalya giving away treasures to men, the reasons for the excessive rapture felt by thepeople, what is it for the delighted king to celebrate? In reply the nurse narrated to the hump-

back, Tomorrow morning under the asterism Pusya our king will consecrate Prince Sri Rama tothe royal power. Enraged Manthara her soul ablaze with sinful thoughts rushed to where QueenKaikeyi slept, addressed her in cruel words, O deluded one, peril stares you in the face; you do

not perceive yourself threatened by incalculable misery, you boast of your good luck in the form

of the goodwill of your spouse, good luck is evanescent, you are despised by the king, wake up

from your slumber O Graceful queen. Kaikeyi addressed the hunch-back in sweet tones, yourdoleful eyes and pallid cheeks speak of sudden danger; is not all well!! The humpback skilled

in treacherous talent, her eyeballs red with fury spoke with intent to instill in Kaikeyis heart;

hate for Sri Rama It is only my concern for your weal that has brought me here, my soul is nowplunged into the depths of despair, I feel I am consumed by flames. The work of ruining you

has commenced, the king is going to make Sri Rama the Heir Associate, great suffering is sure

to come to me due to your suffering. O Royal lady, your husband bestows on you soft soothingwords, he is hard hearted and deceitful, yet you consider him honest and stand deceived by him,

while your pure heart thinks no sin, but your lord, emperor Dasaratha is gracious to deceive you.

The crafty Dasaratha has sent your child Bharata to the distant land, to be with his friends andthus the rival claimant to the throne is far from sight. The wealth, power, the substance from this

day will be Kausalyas, for the emperor gives the power and might to Sri Rama and you will be

an unhappy dame deluded by your husband, Kaikeyi, to me your grief is my grief, and your gainwould be my greatest gain, you should know the right of the queen consort and not be blind to

the crimes which the king does, that which in intent reduce your status (value). A poor victim are

you, you merit happy fate, preserve yourself, prevent the crime while there is time yet. Kaikeyi

happy to receive the glad tidings, gave a jewel to Manthara and said I perceive no difference

between Sri Rama on the one hand and Bharata on the other, I am therefore pleased to know theemperor is going to install Sri Rama on the throne. Take this wonderful shining jewel for giving

me the news which is most delightful, I am happy that Sri Rama gains the throne and Sri Ramathe son of Kausalya is as well mine own son.


Spiteful Manthara:

Furious Manthara spurning the gift in the form of jewels offered by queen Kaikeyi, chided her


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thus: this is not the time for illusory enthrallment, you have not sensed the enormity of the

misfortune that has now encircled you, and I laugh at your gaucheness when you revel over

exaltation of your stepson; when there is every reason for you to mourn.. Oblivious toempowering your secret foe to launch the fatal blow on you, you welcome the lordship of the son

of your rival, I see Sri Rama fear Bharata and it is this foreboding in my heart that makes me

tremble when I visualize the fate of your darling son and yourself under Sri Ramas reign. I seeBharata can press his claim to the throne by virtue of his seniority; also Lakshmana and

Shatrugna are both junior to Bharata and therefore their claims get disqualified. Blessed with

prosperous fate Kausalyas son will be heir associate on the morrow when moon and Pushyameet, when Kausalya is secured with wealth and bliss you will join me in bowing to Kausalya

and also you will be mortified to see Bharata bow to Sri Rama and Sita. Sita will be all euphoria

while Bharatas wife will have to see Bharata fall from glory. This lament from Manthara

sounded needless to Kaikeyi who replied to the hunch-back: Sri Rama with all his excellencesis truly deserving of the crown, he is carefully trained, virtuous, grateful, pure and the royal

claim to the throne is rightfully his. He is like a father to his brothers and is more duteous to me

than to his own mother, besides when Sri Ramas reign on the kingdom ends Bharata will

succeed Sri Rama. I only see that Bharatas coronation to follow Sri Ramas reign and as suchthere is no cause for gloom. Taking a deep sigh the hump-back replied, Your mind is

possessed of madness, you are deaf to warnings and blind to dangers, due to stupidity you areunable to perceive the truth. When Sri Rama is crowned the king, his son will take over from

him after his reign, thus Bharata will forever will be excluded from the Royal Line All the sons

of the king do not retain their hold on the throne, when Sri Rama becomes a ruler by his fatherswill, your dear Bharata if left alive; will be without a friend, and will be far removed from joyous

comforts of the home,. You see when your dear son is with his grandfather, the coronation of Sri

Rama as prince regent is planned and once executed Sri Rama will have all the say and Bharatamust endure all evils emanating from Sri Ramas reign. O! Queen Kaikeyi, now devise a plan for

the welfare of yourself, dear Bharata and all who wish you well, by banishing Sri Rama to the

woods; when dear Bharata loses his fortune he will never regain all that is lost for he is a bornenemy of Sri Rama. Also you have in the past poured scorn on Kausalya and defied her. With SriRama crowned the king and his reign begins Kausalya as the queen mother will treat you with

vengeful spite, she has been slighted by you in the past, now she will after that repay her grudge

to you and the only course available to you dear lady is to crown Bharata and drive Sri Rama tothe unfamiliar forests today.


The malevolent gossip and the plot:

Manthara succeeded in inciting Kaikeyi, Kaikeyi's eyes furious, her words interspersed in

between deep audible gasps, she addressed the hunchback thus; Dear tell me a specific

arrangement, such that Bharata gains the empire and Sri Ramas hopes on the kingdom be invain and he shall flee to the woods Wicked hump-back , in response, revealed a plot, damaging

the mundane interests of Sri Rama and advised the queen to execute her action thus. Long agoin order to help Indra in the war between the Gods and the demons; taking you with him, the

emperor Dasaratha along with other dependent sages fought on the side of the Gods, in a city

named Vaijayanta in the Dandaka forests against the demon king Timidhwaja also calledSambara. In the dreadful battle the devious demons possessing enormous strength in the night

killed the mortals in large numbers and emperor Dasaratha suffered lacerations with weapons


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and missiles hurled at him. You had then rescued your lord by your care and restored him to

health. The grateful lord conferred two boons on you; you expressed your desire to claim the two

boons when you needed, your lord consented; now is the time queen to claim the two boons.First seek Bharata to be crowned the prince regent with the consecration rites now undertaken,

secondly seek the banishment of Sri Rama to the wild forests for twice seven years. When Sri

Rama is sent to exile for fourteen years your son will have been established and firmly rooted onthe throne he will continue for the rest of his life as the sovereign; in this way all the objects of

your son will be accomplished. Now go to the mourners chamber present yourself prostrate lying

on the cold floor with raging eyes, disordered robes and hair, and when the king comes, present amournful sight and let tears flow in torrents and do not speak a word to the mighty emperor. For

long you have been the preferred queen, realize the potency of you charms, and he will never

harm you nor will he decline your claim, be bold, be cold and be stern to the king, resist all his

influences, persuasions, and gifts; recall at length the proffered boons; bind him on oath andclaim the boons. Camouflaged beneath a veneer of gain but coached to her curse, grateful to the

advice tendered by Manthara, the exuberant queen having positively gone astray, extolled,

highlighted all the physical and mental positives in the hunchback, resolved to do likewise and

promised huge gift to her once Bharata is crowned. Full of guile, sin, and spite, the highlyflattered Manthara again spoke to queen Kaikeyi No dams are built when the water from the

stream had already flowed, likewise coronation of Bharata should precede the publicconsecration of Sri Rama as the prince regent. Exhorted thus by Manthara to act without any

loss of time, royal lady stung through her bosom with the darts launched from the humpback's

tongue, queen Kaikeyi hastily left her bower, exulting in her pride of power that lent sheen to hercharm, proceeded to the mourners room and lay on the ground sulking and growling. Happy

Bharata shall be the king, Sri Rama shall spend twice seven years in the forests saying thus she

stripped of her gay attire and presented a disconsolate and a forlorn picture of herself

Ayodhya Kandam Sarga 10:

Dasarathas expression of thoughts in spoken words:Queen Kaikeyi debated at length in her mind the depraved itinerary of her guileful hunchback

maid Manthara, weighed gains and risks; she pondered awhile, the suggested path promised her

bliss, bent upon her dire purpose, with her soul already on fire, in the garb of woe she laydistressed unenergetic on the floor. With her own hands she stripped expensive jewels like

chains, necklace etc that adorned her till now, and put them down on the floor in disarray; a

small consolation these ornaments now lent glitter to the floor. Emperor Dasaratha having issuedorders for the installation of Sri Rama thought he will now communicate the glad news to his

darling Kaikeyi. Not finding his dear Kaikeyi, in her palace which contended in grandeur with

the abode of the God of the riches, not locating his spouse in his own gynaceum he now fears his

blissful hopes getting deceived. The queen had on no account before that missed the time of the

emperors visit, nor did the emperor ever entered the empty sumptuous bower room till then.Urged by anxious thoughts and impelled by infatuation and not knowing that the foolish lady

was keen on achieving her selfish end, the king now enquired of the warder maid on the queenand found out from the maid that the flustered queen was in rage and has sought the mourners

cell as her present abode. The worlds imperial chief disquieted by the news and grief

overwhelming him from within, found his beloved queen in the most un-queenly posture.Greatly disturbed in his heart Dasaratha sought to put the queen in distress, by seeking to know

the cause of the anguish and promising prompt remedial relief unmindful of the costs. The


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emperor went on; You very well know my power and might, you ought not to entertain any

hesitation concerning me, I shall swear by the very merit earned by my virtuous deeds, I shall do

what please you, what will be gained by you through self torture ,O timid lady get up. Consoledby the loving words of Dasaratha, comforted Kaikeyi was now inclined to put the unpalatable

proposal and was thus ready to torment Dasaratha further.


Dasaratha ensnared:

To the emperor held spellbound by infatuation and blinded by passion, Kaikeyi without remorse set about

her cruel purpose; she spoke thus I have neither been insulted nor neglected nor had I endured disrespect,

I have only one long standing cherished desire and that can be fulfilled by you, my Lord and you pledge

your word so that I can then speak with confidence. Dasaratha already a victim of blind passion fell

straight into the deathly trap of Kaikeyi and he responded to his darling queen after placing her drooping

head onto his lap and said as follows: Dear Kaikeyi, the only person who is dearer to me than you is the

brave Sri Rama the high souled heir of my race; without seeing him even for an hour I cannot endure the

separation and must die. On him I swear that I will undertake your bidding. Speak out dear Kaikeyi all

doubts in your mind on my ability to execute your cherished desire will vanish by my powers alone, for

I swear by my own merit that I will grant your prayer. Ambitious and overjoyed queen Kaikeyi havingbound the king in blinding love with treachery and oath now began to speak You have sworn under

repeated oath, let the thirty three principal Gods, with Indra as their leader and every being great and

small hear the way in which you swear in regular sequence. Let all gods listen to the glorious and pious

king who is true to his words confer a boon on me. Having bound the infatuated king on oath, the queen

now spoke, In the days of yore, in the battle of gods and demons you were sorely wounded I rescued

you and restored you to life, in appreciation of this service of mine you had granted me two boons, which

I told you that I will claim later. Now the time has come to demand the grant of the two boons. Firstly,

I seek with the rites that you have commenced in Sri Ramas name transfer them in Bharatas name, in

other words anoint Bharata as the king regent. Now the second boon I seek, forthwith send Sri Rama

dressed in deer skin and matted hair as a hermit to dwell in Dandaka forest for nine and five years. Thus

my son Bharata will enjoy the reign on the empire without a rival and let me see Sri Rama proceeding to

the forest on the morrow. If you refuse your sworn promise before the morning I will die hated by you.Those rich in asceticism declare truthful speech as beneficial to the welfare of men in the otherworld, be

true to your promise; redeem your race, your virtue as well as your birth.


Dasarathas regret:

When Kaikeyi pressed her oppressive request, Dasarathas mind was in deep anguish, sitting onthe floor, he was a pathetic picture of a trembling deer at the sight of a tigress/ lioness; he

thought within himself, Do my troubled senses fail me, or a dream that devastates my empathy,

or is it a stunning picture of my experiences of the previous birth? Thinking thus and beforefainting, he uttered Shame on you. Regaining consciousness after a while furious with rage, he

spoke again; You conspirator, your mind is bent on bringing ruin to my line speak what wrong Ior Rama, (who serves you like a son) have done? When all mankind is in praise of Sri Rama,

what fault in him can I fake to inflict on my darling Sri Rama this cruelty? You forego yourimmoral intrigue, I pray for compassion; kneeling before you I place my head before your feet.

O wicked dame as queen not once in our long association you neither did any wrong nor have

you been guilty of any offence till this instant; but now you seek to pollute the ancient race ofIkshvaku with disgrace and disorder. Afflicted with grief to hear of Sri Ramas projected

installation you are severely tormenting me; however if you wish to ascertain my feeling towards


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Bharata, let Bharata be forthwith installed as Prince Regent instead of Sri Rama, what for do you

seek exile of Sri Rama who is devoted to your service. I cannot be a party to your impious plot,

and my Sri Rama is a pride of Raghus race, instead have mercy on me after seeing my tearsflowing out of anguish and hearing my mournful cry, me a poor old man about to die, with

suppliant hands and lips on your feet I make an earnest request to you to save my darling child

Sri Rama; do not make me die after committing such an unrighteous sin. Overwhelmed byindescribable woe, the emperor lay on the ground groveling, growling, and hoping for a speedy

end to his misery. The fierce Kaikeyi responded to the hapless Dasarathas pleading in a tone

impelled with rage, O monarch you owe your life to me; you granted the boons to me of yourown free will; it is I who will be cheated of your sworn oath. Learn from the tale of the Hawk

and the Dove (Indra and Agni) the ruler of the Sibis gave away his own flesh to the bird; King

Alarka parted with his own eye; the Ocean having given his word in principle to the Gods never

transgresses his limits; therefore bearing in mind the conduct of your ancestors do not violatepledge given to me by you; acting contrary to your pledge you shall bring a stigma on your own

race. Whether the promise has been made in good faith or it is a mere hoax, there is no going

back on it. Now call it by whatever name you will, justice, injustice, virtue or guilt, you must

yield what I claim; if Sri Rama is anointed on the morrow as prince regent, this very day I willsurely die by taking plentiful toxin in your very presence. I swear by my son and myself, only Sri

Ramas banishment will please me. Puzzled and speechless king gazed on his once lovelyqueen now rendering unlovely counsel, he fell on the ground uttering Sri Rama; now a picture

of an insane sick man. In between tears and sobs, the emperor who commanded the earth,

addressed Kaikeyi in words full of sorrow, Kaikeyi that decorum of behavior has altogethertaken leave of you and why do you choose this path so shamelessly, pray who taught you this

ruinous path. You were a devoted wife, what troll has seized you; you spurn the treacherous

counsel. You will be doing a good turn to all people, your husband and Bharata too; when onceSri Rama is banished Bharata will not even stay in the kingdom. In other words Bharata will

never accept the throne; Bharata is more set on virtues than even Sri Rama. How can I tell Sri

Rama Go to the forests and see his pale face? A well prepared plan for the coronation of SriRama is now ruined, all the assembled kings will ask the all important question, how did thisfoolish scion of the Ikshvaku rule for so long; to all who enquire how can I tell them that Sri

Rama .is exiled yielding to Kaikeyis distress, even if I speak the truth, everyone will take it as

false and weak. Even if I plead in the presence of the assembled dignitaries that I had to exile SriRama, to vindicate the cause of the truth, as I only did this to redeem the promise made to you,

yet my announcement made in public that Sri Rama would be installed the prince regent would

be falsified. How can I ever console Queen Kausalya who showered on me the mothers love,sisters care, and the Godly lady was never treated well by me, she was neglected by me, for fear

of displeasing you; henceforth Sumitra will not trust me for my having debased Sri Rama despite

no offence committed by him. Sita will soon hear of dual affliction one the disgrace of her lord

Sri Rama and second the death of Sri Ramas father. I will die soon, I cannot perceive withmournful eyes Sri Rama wandering alone in the forests and hear Sitas moan and sob and you

with your vile and words of guile have murdered me; very soon, the indelible stigma will attach

to me as the ignoble king who has bartered his son for the pleasure of his wife. I cherished you,your sin and wittingly kept you like a cord destined to bind me to my death; now I will invite the

curse of everyone because I saw my high souled son Sri Rama, deprived of coronation, deprived

of paternal care; in exchange for the power of love to my wife. When Sri Rama who should beenjoying the comforts of the palace, hears me say go away to the forest he will not


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unfortunately resist, but will say I obey. After the exile of Sri Rama, the weight of the curses of

all men will drive me to the kingdom of the lord of punishment, Yama, and the disconsolate

Queen Kausalya will follow me in death. Kaikeyi the cause of all my present ills is soon to bewidowed, obtain your cursed will, and enjoy the reigns of the empire with your boy. Perchance

Bharata consents to your wily plan never allow him to perform my obsequies O! Kaikeyi, some

evil fate brought you here in the guise of consort to devastate me. You are vicious, you havebrought scorn and deep shame to my name, and misled by you to wickedness, I suffer extreme

disgrace. How shall Sri Rama used to the worldly comforts wander in the woods wearing ochre

colored clothes, sustaining himself on fruits pungent, bitter, acidic and other wild edibles.Kaikeyi you are worthless, cruel, selfish dame, full of vile, what fault have you observed in Sri

Rama and me to inflict cruelty of this dimension, particularly when Sri Rama likes you very

much. All men and women speak wildly when my Sri Rama is touched with deadly hurt and will

proceed with him to the woods; without my darling Sri Rama no one will ever think I will bealive. You are a venomous snake and I have caressed you so long, and through my folly I die and

then you with Bharata rule the kingdom to ruin. My life is gone O! Lady, spare darling Sri Rama

who cannot speak in anger, thus spoke Dasaratha striving to reach the cruel feet of Kaikeyi.


Dasarathas anguish:

[Only the highest merit will obtain a home in the heaven for ever. Minor degrees of merit

procure only leases of heavenly mansions terminable after periods proportioned to the fund

which buys them. King Yayati went to heaven and when his term expired, unceremoniously hewas ejected and thrown down to earth.] Unworthy of mournful fate the heartbroken mighty king

lay prostrate in inappropriate guise; he resembled Yayati in his evil day. The unsympathetic

queen Kaikeyi exasperated the king with her words, Great monarch it was your boast till now,you love the truth and keep the vow, why now you refuse the promised boon, it is mine to pick

and choose. Dasaratha responded in grief I was for a long while childless after mighty sacrifice

impressive Sri Rama was born, how I can desert Sri Rama who is a wise scholar, a bold hero, hehas his wrath controlled, he is my darling, lotus eyed Sri Rama. Even in heaven when inquired

by the Gods how shall I hear their words of censure, if tell them that Sri Rama was exiled by

me to oblige you, the announcement made by me about his installation as Prince Regent will beuntrue, O death take me before I inflict agony on Sri Rama. O lady of sinful resolve why do you

place my darling son in an unwelcome predicament All night the king mourned, maddening

grief assailed his heart, fixing his gaze upon the sky he once again said with suppliant hands tomove Kaikeyi amidst his sigh and bawl, O good sweet dame, I cling to you for comfort, dear

have mercy on me, gift with your imperial hands the sovereignty of this glorious kingdom to Sri

Rama, you will thus please me, Sri Rama, Bharata, every saintly priest and all Queen Kaikeyi

heard the wild mournful cry, saw the tears flowing from the reddened eyes of the king; the queen

again importuned the king to banish Sri Rama. The high minded guileless king Dasaratha inextreme agony sighed dolefully and swooned upon the ground again.


Dasaratha seeks Sri Rama:

Seeing Dasaratha sorrowing for his dear Sri Rama, Kaikeyi spoke these painful words; I takemy stand on honesty, you must keep to the bounds of morality, be truthful to your words, having

promised a boon to me why are you lying dejected on the floor as though you have perpetrated a


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sin. King Saibya, true to his promise, parted with his own flesh to the hawk in exchange for the

dove that had sought his shelter; similarly the king Alarka parted with his eyes in order to

implement a boon granted by him to a blind Brahman; the lord of the rivers; Ocean, for its parteven at the time of flow tide does not transgress its limits, I submit to you to be faithful to your

own word. Truthfulness is the highest virtue, truth is Brahma denoted by the syllable OM, and

justice is placed only on truth; hence comply with my rightful request and preserve your fame. Orighteous king yielding to my claim send your child Sri Rama to the wild woods, in case of a

failure on your part forsaken by you I shall lay down my life before you. The piteous king with

his eyes staring vacantly, gathered courage, spoke to Kaikeyi, By your guile, on the morrowconsecration of Sri Rama will be stayed, I once and for all times to follow repudiate you and

your son. Soon at dawn, my darling son, Sri Rama will with requisites got here for his

consecration, offer water to me when I will breathe my last, you Kaikeyi of evil conduct and

Bharata should not offer any water to my departed soul. The dawn is near soon the holy sageswill be here, the joyous people of Ayodhya will urge me to expedite the installation, I will be

unable to see their drooping face bereft of pleasure, and devoid of joy. Fierce queen responded

with rage, What speech is this; why utter such words hurtful as poison and disease, quickly send

for your noble Rama, command him to the woods and give the reigns to Bharata, and freeyourself from the chains of duty. You will have done your duty when you have installed my son

to the throne and banished Sri Rama to the woods. Pestered by the ignoble queen Dasarathacried My senses are astray I long to see my beloved, virtuous Sri Rama In the meantime as the

sacred hour for the installation of Sri Rama arrived, Sage Vasistha together with his pupils;

bringing with him all the requisites for the consecration of a prince as Prince Regent associatedwith the installation entered the well decorated streets where people gathered in large numbers.

He finally entered the emperors palace and reached the gate of the emperors gynaeceum, he

told the kings charioteer minister present there; Inform the king I am here, with all therequisites that the rites require, people from far and near have gathered, let not the sacred hour

chosen for installation slip by, before Sri Rama ascends the throne. As soon as he heard the

message of the mighty saint, Sumantra unaware of the emperors deadly grief, quickly enteredthe royal chamber, stood besides the royal chief, and began to sing the customary early morningpraises of his lord, the king. The miserable king his eyes coppery red due to sorrow,

responded. Do not plunge me into deeper despair with idle praise. Hearing reply of the

miserable king and seeing his tearful eyes, Sumantra with joined palms withdrew to a distance.Weak due to grief and gloom, the king made a vain attempt to speak, the queen well versed in

statecrafts replied on his behalf, Exhausted due to restlessness during the night; eager as he was

through the ecstasy over the prospect of the installation of his son, he has fallen napping due tofatigue, quickly escort Sri Rama here. Sumantra waited for Dasarathas command; when the

king said, Bring quickly my beauteous Sri Rama. The charioteer happy to hear these words

from the mouth of the emperor quickly set out on his assigned task, to fetch Sri Rama.


The arrangements:

The Brahmanas who had been invited to officiate at the installation ceremony stood at the gate of

the royal palace along with the kings family priest Vasistha, Vamadeva and others. The

ministers, the army commanders as well as the foremost amongst the mercantile communitygathered together arrayed in proper order. A clear sun having entered the zodiacal sign named

Cancer, and the asterism Pusya having appeared with the moon in the day time everything


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required for the installation of Sri Rama was got ready by the Brahmans. The well fashioned

duly adorned auspicious wooden seat , gold pitchers full of water, brought from the sacred

confluence of Ganga and Yamuna, besides water from many a holy flood, from brooks,fountains, from pool, sea, river and ponds, that apart all the requisites for the consecration of a

prince were got together. The assembly was getting impatient and began to query, Who will

convey to the king, that all his people throng the open area, the sun is bright, and all is ready forthe ceremony. As they were speaking thus they saw Sumantra at the royal gate who told

them, Under orders from the king I am out in a hurry to bring in Sri Rama, and the assembly

said to Sumantra,, All of us hold you in high esteem inform the king of our arrival and seek thereasons for the delay. Sumantra enjoyed free access to meet the emperor at all times after

reciting the customary benedictions, conveyed to the king thus, Brahmans, commanders of the

army, merchants and all have arrived and for their part want to see you; awake O scion of

Raghu. Dasaratha sought from Sumantra, Why my mandate to bring Sri Rama here isdisobeyed. Go at once and bring Sri Rama without delay. Skilled charioteer minister devoid of

pride, his head bent low in reverence he sped past the gates of the royal palace; forthwith he

proceeded to fetch Sri Rama. As he traversed his delighted eyes saw everywhere the houses,

porches were beautified, he heard glad words from the people but the theme was Sri Ramascoronation. Sumantra further saw the lovely palace of Sri Rama that vied in grandeur with

Indras abode and the passage leading to the entrance was overcrowded with numerous peoplewho stood there to laud their master.


Sri Rama responds to his fathers summons:

The son of the bard Sumantra, passed through the crowded door to reach the innermost gate of

Sri Ramas abode and told the warders guarding the gate, Tell Sri Rama that the charioteerSumantra waits for an audience here, instantly the message was passed on to Sri Rama, the

Lord without delay called in Sumantra, he thought it was bound to be at his fathers command

the charioteer minister was there. Sumantra skilled in gentle courtesies and who is also befamiliar with the rules of the decorum; with reverence he addressed Sri Rama, O Sri Rama

blessed is your mother Kausalya to have a son like you, without delay meet your father and

queen Kaikeyi who seek to interview with you. Sri Rama who was with Sita at the time spoke toSita thus, Happy fate is mine the king and my queen mother Kaikeyi, would like to give me

some salutary counsel hence I am called. Desirous of pleasing my father the daughter of the king

of Kekayas who is my well-wisher too; the emperor with his beloved queen has sent as hismessenger Sumantra to accomplish the objects of my desire; I will proceed, Sita you remain in

the gynaeceum rejoice here with your companions. Sita responded to Sri Rama thus, By your

fathers decree the consecration and the rites which sanctified the rulers might; should be yours.

May you be guarded in the east by Indras thunderbolt, in the south by the God of punishment,

Yama, by the God of water on the western side and protected by the God of riches on thenorthern side, she said as she accompanied her lord to the exit door. Thus after taking leave

from Sita, having gone through auspicious rites appropriate to the occasion Sri Rama departedfrom his palace with Sumantra. He first noticed Lakshmana standing at the first gate, he met his

friends and relations after bidding good bye with kind looks and fair greetings; Sri Rama set

forth to the palace of emperor Dasaratha, Lakshmana took his seat behind Sri Rama in thatchariot. En route Sri Rama heard praises in his appreciation sung in sweet and soft voices

wishing him joy, pride and triumphant reign. All over the place was heard, Here goes Sri Rama,


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from now sure, Kausalyas spirit must swell to see her loved son Sri Rama; you are her pride, her

joy, preside over the realm with accomplishment. Sri Rama heard from the assemblage,

benedictions raising shouts of victory, from the chroniclers who glorified his descent whomarched ahead of him by eloquent eulogists, all these and other pleasant benedictions, he was

unmoved duly honoring all, he cast on everyone eyes inclined with love and sympathy.

Ayodhya Kandam Sarga17

Sri Rama drives in state:

A blissful Sri Rama while on his way to his fathers palace, heard numberless people on thestreets and countless voices say Be you joyful, Be you our guardian, lord and guide, Be you

anointed and crowned today the king of this great kingdom, which was reigned by your fathers

and fore fathers with loving care, our cherished desire is to see you invested today with imperialsway. As long as you are the ruler of men none will ever undergo a disagreeable experience

much less suffering. En-route Sri Rama also reverently bent before every shrine and altar,

taking care to pass them in clock-wise turn. On approaching his fathers palace Sri Rama wentthrough the three gates in his chariot and through the remaining two he went on foot. Thus the

monarchs noble son Sri Rama went to meet his father, while the multitude waited outside withelation and with eagerness in anticipation of his return through the expected gates.


Kaikeyi pronounces the decree:

Sri Rama on entering the gynaeceum saw his fathers despairing, flustered, saddened, face, with

hopeless eyes and pallid demeanor, sitting on the couch with the queen sighing with anxiety ; he

clasped the feet of his father and also touched the feet of Kaikeyi. Sorrowing Dasaratha barely

uttered; Rama and the afflicted monarch could not talk more, nor could he look at him, his eyesblinded with tears. The sight of the hapless monarch troubled with mysterious misery dismayed

Sri Rama who was used to the sight of his fathers calm gaze; he bestowed his thought on the

inconceivable grief of the monarch at this juncture. Sri Rama humbly sought from the queen thereasons for his fathers pallid demeanor, wondering what words or deeds of his (Sri Ramas)

caused such an anguish in Dasaratha. Imploring queen Kaikeyi the cause for Dasarathas

predicament, Sri Rama wondered what action of his caused the emperors present plight, Todaywhy will my father not speak kindly to me, on other days even when angered his tranquil eyes

greet me? O dear Queen win his pardon for my careless sin, what have I done, I hope no agony is

caused by bodily distemper, or mental anguish upset him, indeed everlasting happiness is hard tosecure. I hope no offence has been committed by me against my brothers, or against my mothers,

or has my father been told by you a harsh word through vanity by which his heart has been stung

to the quick? O godly lady point this out correctly to me I, I am inquisitive to know the cause forthis extraordinary agitation? Beseeched, by the courteous Sri Rama, queen Kaikeyi spoke

setting aside all shame and ruth, The emperor is neither angry nor is there any agony botheringhim, he refrains from speaking to you for fear of his words inflicting pain on you, but, you as

duty bids must fulfill your fathers promise. In the days of the yore your father granted me twoboons; now when I seek to redeem the boons, caitiff like he disowns the debt; the monarch must

be true to his promise and should not break his promise either in wrath or even for your sake. For

your good or for your ill if you swear that your fathers promise will not collapse I will tell youin detail. Concerned Sri Rama answered Kaikeyi thus: You ought not to speak such words to

me expressing misgiving about my devotion to my father; at the command of my father, who is


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my teacher, friend and father all in one, I will cast my body to the fire, or drink a deadly poison

or sink in the ocean. Speak out; let me know the thing that my lord longs and it will be done, I

give my plighted word, and Rama never makes a promise twice. In reply to these words fromthe prince who loved the right and spoke the truth, came the cruel, offensive answer of the

ruthless Kaikeyi, In the years gone by when Gods and the demons fought, your father fought on

the side of the Gods and was transfixed with darts and bathed in gore. I rescued him; restoredhim to life, he conferred on me two boons which I then pledged in his custody and now I seek to

redeem the same. First of the boons is to crown Bharata as prince regent and second is, you O

Rama this very day you go to the distant Dandaka forests for nine and five years. Rama you willhave to maintain your fathers boon without compromise and clear your own reputation by

adhering to the truth, cast all aspirations on the consecration rites, proceed to Dandaka forests.

Let Bharata, reign his fathers royal domain with all its riches. Your father is mourning your

altered fate; he is stooped down in bitter grief and is unable to see you in the eye. Be brave andfirm, obey the monarchs words and save the emperor from the delicate situation. Hearing

Kaikeyi speak thus, Sri Rama never betrayed any grief but was dismayed at his fathers lot who

was afflicted by the agony of impending separation from his darling son.


Sri Ramas pledge:

Unmoved and calm, noble Sri Rama, without quail responded to queen Kaikeyis

words Dressed as a hermit and with matted hair, I will take exile to Dandaka forests. I would be

obliged to know why my father, who is my friend, preceptor and the grateful sovereign is sostern today. He has not made his longing known to me that Bharata should ascend the throne; let

not anger flush your face because I put this question to you. Unasked I would oblige Bharata all

that is mine, that includes my life and even Sita too, but I request you to please let me know whymy father is crying whilst lying prostrate. If my going to the forest will free his reputation and

release his heart from the sore shame I will gladly go to the forest. Mandated by the king, you

please send for Bharata and I will not stay here to question my fathers words and I will proceedto the Dandaka forests to spend twice seven years. Elated with Sri Ramas foregoing words

Kaikeyi continued further Messengers will be sent to fetch Bharata from my fathers home but

you Sri Rama should not linger here, it is good and wise; you proceed to the Dandaka forests atthis very hour. Your father will speak no words to you because he is embarrassed asking his

fortunate son to relinquish the throne and leave Ayodhya, he will not even bathe nor have food.

Immersed in surging grief on hearing Kaikeyi speak to Sri Rama thus, Dasaratha collapsed andfell unconscious. Sri Rama raised Dasaratha to the couch ornamented in gold. Hearing the

disgusting and distressing remark of the uncouth lady filled with vile and dread, the unmoved

and gentle Sri Rama replied I am not a slave to unrestrained pleasures and paltry gains, I am

obliged to pursue the path of duty, and I will do whatever deed, I as a loving son to the emperor

has to, please think it is done. I count of all duties the foremost is obedience to fathers plightedword and I will even without his words will flee to the Dandaka forests this day and spend

fourteen years in banishment. Could you not hope to find one spark of virtue in me that you hadto speak to my father on a thing trivial as this, O princess of Kekaya you have great authority

over me than my father. Bear with me before I part to the woods I will have to cheer Sitas heart

and bid farewell to my dear Mother Kausalya. O queen Kaikeyi care must be taken by Bharatathat the kingdom is ruled with the sway of righteousness, an attempt should be made by you to

see Bharata protects the kingdom from internal disarray and external hostility, and serves well


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his aged father; this is the code of eternal morality. Hearing his darling son Sri Rama speak,

Dasaratha heard in speechless grief and wept aloud. Sri Rama touched the feet of his father and

that of Kaikeyi; proceeded to the gates, behind Sri Rama was sad Lakshmana whose eyes werefilled with tears. Going clockwise around the vessel containing the requisites for the projected

sacrifice as a mark of respect, the loss of empire did not dim his glory nor did his sweet grandeur

wane. His senses were under strict check, not betraying any grief, Sri Rama proceeded to hismothers mansion to disclose the mournful news he brought. As Sri Rama along with brave

Lakshmana approached his mothers abode, though his soul was sorely troubled, resolved not to

present the picture of his woe and not to yield to grief, he proceeded to reveal the dreadfultidings to his mother.


Queen Kausalyas regret:

When Sri Rama emerged out of Kaikeyis bower, up went a mighty wail and wild lament from

the women (queens) who said, Most tender and affectionate Sri Rama, who did his duty, evenbefore his being told by his father, he is our refuge and sure protection, even when he is

despised, he is unruffled and modest, he pacifies the enraged, from childhood he treats us in thesame way he treats his mother, he will go into exile today. Our imprudent king is foregoing SriRama in casting away the worlds protection, hope and stay; he is bringing destruction to all the

living creations. The king already smitten with unbearable grief on hearing this tearful

lamentation fainted and fell on the couch due to sheer shame and affliction. Sri Rama too was

afflicted with pain, he could scarcely restrain his grief, drawing deep audible breath, heproceeded to his mothers abode. There he saw his saintly mother who all night was engaged in

sacred observances, at dawn she was offering worship to Lord Vishnu. Sri Rama saw his mother

offer oil and grains to the sacred fire. On coming to know of Sri Ramas arrival, impelled bymaternal love she threw her arms around Sri. Rama and went on to bless him in tender

words: Like your noble forefathers let virtue and fame be yours. The pious king true to his

promise is to crown you the prince regent saying so she offered the royal seat to her beloved SriRama, now answered his mother in the following words: I am here to convey in terms of my

fathers decree, I am to proceed to the Dandaka forest and lead the life of a hermit for fourteen

years. The king will yield to Bharata the prince regent which I thought was to me. Hearingthese words Kausalya fainted and fell to the ground and presented a picture of a Goddess ejected

from her radiant halls. All her limbs were soiled with dust, Sri Rama with loving touch and soft

caress comforted her in her distress. Kausalya addressed Sri Rama while Lakshmana was withinthe hearing distance; If only Sri Rama, you were never born to me, the only sting that could

have stuck to me was a childless wife; indeed Sri Rama there is only one anguish for a barren

woman, the feeling she is issueless; certainly there is no other agony, when I thought I have

gained my husbands love and bliss, I see your banishment. I am plunged into greater grief.

Henceforth I must hear the soul distressing words and taunts and jests hurled at me by my rivalconsorts. Not esteemed by my husband I have always been insulted by him, I have been treated

on a par with or even on a lower footing than Kaikeyis servants. In misery, in grief hopelessdays have to be spent in lament, with no sight of an end to the woes. O darling Sri Rama how

shall I brook each menacing look of Kaikeyi? How can I pass, how shall I pass long lone days of

wretchedness in dark distress without seeing my Ramas face. Alas, my fasts, my vows andprayers have all been in vain. I am at this point in time comparable to the plight of a lions

weeping prey, neither my heart breaks with this pressing blow and nor there is room in Yamas


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hall; definitely death does not come out of time. My prayers, largess, past vows, are in vain and

are like lifeless seeds cast on barren soil, I am mourning like a cow which has just lost its tender

calf. [Infuriated woman world over is often likened to a cow robbed of its youngling, the mothercow runs lowing up and down looking at the way her young harmless one went. Cows are

amongst the gentlest of breathing creatures; none show more passionate tenderness to their

young when deprived of them. In short mankind at large profess a deep love for these gentlecreatures]


Kausalya assuaged:

While Kausalya was wailing, Lakshmana made the following submission within the hearing of

both Sri Rama and Kausalya: I do not like Sri Rama quitting the royal fortune, the weak senileking is subjugated by the words of a woman, overpowered by sensual pleasure he was made to

speak in this manner by queen Kaikeyi. God like Sri Ramas fame is never tarnished by any

faults, nor has he caused any offence in the least to anyone; be his foes or any wretched outsiderhas spoken ill of him, he is sincere, is virtuous and disciplined. If to such a son, the king is

prompted on account of second childhood or his being a slave to his passion; causes issue ofsuch irrational orders, Sri Rama is not obliged to obey, the crown is rightfully his. Before thisplot is known, Sri Rama you own up the empire, I will with my shafts guard you against all

perils, I shall slay all those mean men who are opposed to you being anointed the prince regent.

On what moral authority does the emperor seek to confer on the son of Kaikeyi the kingdom

which by right devolves on you, he has no power to bestow the royal fortune on Bharata afterentering into hostility with you. If duress has to be resorted to even with reference to a father or

teacher who is no more discerning the right and the wrong; turns into forbidden path; goes astray

yielding to Kaikeyis designs, we will with our power resist this move even in war; GENTLEPATIENCE EARNS CONTEMPT the empire is justly yours. If unjustly Sri Rama is exiled, I

will kill my aged father, he is now the vassal of Kaikeyis will; he is old, is infirm, is enthralled

by a woman of base conduct and is grown contemptible. I love this brother with all my affection,I swear, if Sri Rama goes to the woods, first my feet shall tread that land, or if he enters a blazing

fire O glorious lady know me as having already entered the glow. Weeping bitterly, Kausalya

now spoke to Sri Rama the following, The statement of your younger brother is full of wisdom,act accordingly; in any case do not obey my impious rivals words and go in exile to the forests

leaving me here consumed with grief. If you are true to virtue, the call of duty beckons you to

obey your mothers (mine) voice and win a seat among immortals like Kasyapas great asceticson, Prajapati. If you consider reverence be due to your father; mothers words too likewise is to

be valued and you are not to go to the forests. If you still go leaving your hapless mother; from

this very moment I will abjure food, I cannot endure life without you and in that case it will be

your fate to dwell in the world detested hell. (The reference here is in a former creation Ocean

grieved his mother and suffered in consequence the pains of hell.) To his grieving motherrighteous Sri Rama replied, I have no powers to break my fathers commands and cited the

instances of Kandu, Sagaras sixty thousand sons, Jamadagni, who have all been obedient totheir fathers commands. The deeds of these and several others act as my guide and I am

resolute, I will faithfully fulfill my fathers command that to me is the only righteous path.

Turning to his brother Lakshmana he said: Your supreme devotion and love to me makes youtalk accordingly, my mothers distress is great and the matchless weight of agony almost drives

her to death. Dear Lakshmana truth is dutys noblest base and duty is supreme, man must


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always remain in the path of duty and never pledge his words in vain. Having plighted my words

to do the bidding of my father O gallant Lakshmana I should not falsify it. It was our father who

gave his words Kaikeyi who has now spurred on to redeem the boon; now please set asidecontemptible thoughts which smack of warriors might and pride. Sri Rama thereafter turned to

Kausalya again and submitted as follows, I need to go to the forest, I pray, give me your

blessings, I must obey my fathers words, please forego the preparations for my coronation; Iwill on completion of the fourteen years return to Ayodhya, please restrain yourself and let my

pious wish to go to the forest stand. Kausalya again spoke to Sri Rama thus, If in reverence/

obedience you have to obey your fathers commands likewise by right and love, I renew mycommand to you my dear son, not to go to the forest. Again Sri Rama spoke in the following

words to his mother who was sorely afflicted with grief and to his brother whose heart burnt with

rage: Lakshmana I know your loving mind, your gallantry, your strength as well as your glory

which cannot be surpassed by anyone. Not knowing the importance of adherence to the truth andself-control, claims to duty, you and my mother overwhelm me in my grief. Religious merit,

material gain and worldly enjoyment have been concluded to be the means of attaining happiness

in the world of mortals. One should never disobey virtues and take the path leading to material

wealth and passion. Though our father was swayed either through feverous joy or senseless loveor causeless ire and commanded me thus, yet he still is the father of both of us and the lord and

life of my mother, as such I have got to obey his command. In no case my mother deserting herlord can come with me to the forest; my holy mother let your blessing soothe my pain. For glory

or the lure of material gains or lust I will not slight my fathers words. Firm in his resolve and

speaking thus, he soothed his mother in these several words and as a mark of reverence wentaround his mother.


Lakshmana reasoned:

Unshaken noble Sri Rama, next turned to his clearly indignant brother Lakshmana whose eyes

were burning with rage, and he was panting in anger. Sri Rama spoke to Lakshmana thefollowing words: Dear brother restrain your grief and anger, set aside your derision, when you

are firm in the path of duty you are always right; then your actions bring pride and joy. Let the

same fervor be evinced in proceeding to the exile and all the exquisite material that has been gotfor my consecration be sent back to Bharatas coronation rites; let Kaikeyis mind not be filled

with apprehensions that I will revolt and refuse to leave the capital. I cannot recall one

involuntary or willful fault committed to pain my mothers or father. Let the valiant, truthful,father who is ever true to his promise, having done away with this ceremony of installation and

afraid of falsehood be rid of fear that his plighted words will fail. O! Lakshmana, I for my part

wish to proceed to the forest soon; then let the elated daughter of the king Aswapathi, install

Bharata to the throne secure in her mind that all her troubles have ceased. Clad in deer skin,

bark, wearing a coil of matted hair I wander in the woods without sorrow, I shall accordingly gointo exile let there be no delay. I know my filial love has been the same to every queen, Kaikeyi

treated both her son and me with same affection, even as this is the fact, how could Kaikeyispurpose bring pain and suffering on me; her present change of heart is decreed by Fate alone.

Dear Lakshmana all commanding powers of fate, is our former deeds alone bind our life and

death, anger and fear, our joy and pain, our loss and gain; all is none but the work of Fate. It isFate that sends me to the forests; that caused change of heart in Kaikeyi; that stalled my

coronation and decreed my exile; I ascribe all this to Fate, for none can comprehend fate, and to


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Fate all living things must bow and bend; no man can contend with fates resistless sway. Even

saints engaged in sternest vows, by sudden stroke of Fate get enslaved by love and rage. Fate

descends, unlooked for and with unpitying might, destroys the commencement of joys. NowLakshmana cast away the needless grief, shed all ambitions of my coronation, and the holy water

contained in the urns be now dropped on my head, to inaugurate and sanctify my hermits vow.

Lakshmana let not your heart deplore the change in my fortunes, though queen Kaikeyis vilemay have marred my consecrating rites, let not one single thought that suggest ill or fall of our

father, enter your head. Remember FATE IS THE LORD OF ALL.


Lakshmanas indignation:

Lakshmanas frame of mind swayed between misery at the disruption of coronation andamusement over Sri Ramas resolute fidelity to rectitude. He was furious, he spoke to his noble

minded brother these words; Your resolve is rash, hasty, and your fears of lapsing from duty are

all misplaced. One like you who is to bring glory to the warriors race cannot in spinelessnessbring in arguments exalting fate, and indeed concept of fate is impotent, ineffectual and pitiable.

Do you not recognize that the twain (parents) are devoted to semblance of piety; can you not seethrough the vicious intent of the iniquitous couple (Dasaratha and Kaikeyi), is devious? O Ramathey had long ago agreed on this treacherous plan for their own selfish end, thus they forsake

you through fraud. If the fictional narrative of one who granted the boon and received by the

other had been real, it would have been granted long before and the rites in connection with the

installation would not have been undertaken at all. Since the interruption in your installation,is brought about by machination, in the shape of involving the story of a boon granted by the

emperor, and your partiality to such false piety appears to me is wrong. This adherence to piety

is condemned in the eyes of the people of Ayodhya, how can anyone other than you even inthought accomplish the desire of the foes in the name of parents, who while being hostile to you

follow their own pleasure. I cannot bear to see another person throned after the preparations

of installation for you have been commenced, do not submit to this disgusting design of yourfathers sinful command. Only the meek, the ones who are devoid of manly pride submit to the

decree of fate, whilst the exalted and nobly great souls disdainfully refuse to recognize much less

be allowed to be controlled by fates decree. I will this day demonstrate to the mankind the gulfbetween human might that arms my vigorous hands and the power of fate. My pair of arms, my

warriors bow, the shafts are all not empty shows; I will put them to effective use, you only name

your foes and I will strip that foe of his followers, fame, fortune and or life. Also Sri Rama, exileis only ordained for aged kings as a form of rest after they committed their realms to their good

sons. I implore you to heed my call, secure the sovereignty, and at the end of thousand years of

your rule, the sons of your worthy self will rule over the people without interruption even then,

and I your faithful servant will stand guard here to listen and obey your commands so said sad

Lakshmana and had this as Sri Ramas reply to him: the orders of my father I will obey and Ishall never oppose that, that is the path of my duty


Kausalyas agitation addressed:

Seeing Sri Rama resolute in upholding his fathers decree, Kausalya spoke to Sri Rama inbetween her sobs Your words enslave all hearts, you are a stranger to suffering; in the forest

you must live on roots, fruits, and grains that your hands may collect, even the slaves in the


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kingdom partake of dainty food; surely none can resist the diktat of fate. No one will believe the

story that a scion of Kakutstha, endowed with all excellences, the fortunate child of the emperor

was exiled. I was for long childless and your birth was the answer to my prayers and now bereftof you, overwhelmed with grief; I have nowhere to go dear Sri Rama take me with you wherever

you go. The noblest lord of men spoke to his mother which was in conformity with the norms

of human obligations, When I have retired to the woods, the aged king betrayed by Kaikeyi ifhe is further deserted by you, will surely die, hence even in your thoughts it should not occur

to you to leave the emperor, who is the master of all of us and his orders must at all times be

carried out. Kausalya again pleaded with Sri Rama In case you have in deference to the wishesof your father decided to go to the forest, please lead me wherever you go, it is not desirable for

me to live with my co-wives. Once more to his weeping mother Sri Rama said in the following

soothing words It is sheer cruelty on the part of a woman to desert her spouse, her deity, her

lord, it should not be even thought of; it is denounced, let service be rendered to him by you thatis the eternal moral code. The wise king continues to be the leader, superior, supporter, elder,

our lord too, his command must be carried out by you and by me as well, furthermore Bharata

is pious minded and is devoted to righteousness. After my departure to the wild you serve the

aged king be ever vigilant and conduct yourself in a manner such that neither action nor wordscause the poignant grief in the king that leads to his extinction, thus deny to yourself the doom of

being a cursed sinner. Please serve the aged king, my father, with duty, care, love, comfort andcheer. Praying constantly to the host of heavenly powers and look out for the time of my return

from the forests after completing mine nine and five years of exile. Thereafter I will serve kindly,

truly, humbly, you and the king if he is alive then. Kausalya her eyes blinded with tears causedby the impending separation from her son spoke again My son you are resolute in the discharge

of filial debt, driven by the will of mighty fate if you are to go the woods, then go with strong

arms, go forth and come again to bring cheer and joy after your return from the wilderness toyour expectant mother. Kausalya then conferred benedictions on her son Sri Rama consciously

after seeing Sri Ramas constant and unmoved resolve to go the woods.


Kausalyas blessing:

The mother of the noblest man, Kausalya, cast her grief and woe aside; through ratiocination(by the process of reasoning), she began her benisons thus: Since you will hear no words of

mine and your departure to the woods cannot be stopped, O! Pride of Raghus, you follow the

footsteps of the righteous and return after serving the period of exile. During the period of yourexile may your precious life be saved by the mystic missiles Sage Viswamitra gave you, your

sure protector is your truthfulness, innocence and your obedience to your father and mothers;

nothing can wear you out. May all the Gods watching from their starry heavens protect you

wherever you go? May the celestials and the titans protect you in your solitude when you wander

in the woods in the garb of hermits attire? May each sacrificial ground, rock, lake, mountain,each tree, birds, reptiles, lions, tigers, elephants come together to serve you. Go forth my child

Sri Rama, be happy in the love of all Gods and may every God in the heavens be by the side ofmy Sri Rama, keep company, and guide my Sri Rama. Kausalya thereafter offered oblations

to the sacrificial fire and offered worship for Sri Ramas bliss and health. At the end of all her

worship she spoke to Sri Rama: Firm you are in your purpose, may bliss betide Sri Rama, returnsafe and well; thereafter dwell triumphant in Ayodhya, with the empire under your control which

my happy eyes will then watch. Sri Rama having received his mothers benediction went round


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his mother clockwise and in a token of reverence pressed his mothers feet and after taking leave

of his mother he proceeded to Sitas home.


Sita inquires the cause of her lords glumness:

Dutiful Sri Rama bade farewell to his mother Kausalya, received the benisons invoked on himby his mother, thereafter he proceeded to the apartments of his Videhan princess wading his way

through the swarming multitudes that thronged the highway; his spouse was offering worship to

the Gods and was waiting for her husband. When Sita saw Sri Ramas dejected eyes, anguishedface; in short Sri Rama could not hide from Sita the load his heart bore; his clammy countenance

said it all. Janakas daughter had not heard till then the change in the form of interruption in the

installation of Sri Rama and his exile into the forest, every limb in Sita trembled with fear atthis sight of her lord she howled; Why do I see this sudden change, if the consecrating rite be

ready why this mournful plight, why this so sad and strange altered deportment? Why are you

ill at ease, why does not your lovely countenance shine splendidly as it should at this juncture?If the consecrating rite is ready why this mournful plight; why do I see this sad and sudden

altered mien so strange? Sri Rama answered; I tell you the story as it unfolded, in the pastmy father gave two boons to Queen Kaikeyi who now has invoked the two boons; she has nowsought a stay on the preparation of my installation as the prince regent, instead Bharata is to be

the heir to my fathers throne and for fourteen years I am exiled to the Dandaka forests. Bound

by the boons my fathers will makes Bharata heir to the kingdom, in obedience to my fathers

command I proceed to the woods, before I seek the forlorn woods I come to speak to you. Myirreproachable spouse, in Bharatas presence never speak of me with pride, that it will be odious

to the monarchs ears. Through all times you be firm and content, keep well your fasts and holy

vows, offer due worship to the Gods; show reverence to my father, my mother Queen Kausalya,other queens, and show special love and care to Bharata and Shatrugna. Do refrain from every

word and deed that may cause pain to Bharatas soul, for he is Ayodhyas king, the head and the

lord of our line. I proceed to the woods to make my dwelling there for the next fourteen yearsand you see that your conduct is never offensive; dear Sita please keep my words.


Reply of Sita:

Listening to Sri Ramas aforesaid advice, Sita responded in these words; Why do you tender

such counsel, I am amused to hear what has been said by you, your speech is not worth listeningto, O best of heroes what you spoke is disgraceful of a valiant prince, it taints the son of the

monarch with shame. My lord, the mother, father, son, each reap their fortunes enjoying the

merits earned by each in their previous life, the wife alone must share on earth her husbandsfate, the kings command that exiles you, extends to me too. The wife finds no refuge in

father, mother, son or self, her husband is only her sole refuge at all times; and whatever is thehusbands lot, it is acceptable for a wife to follow her husbands path; it is much more rewarding

than to live in rich palaces, filled with pleasure. I seek with you Dandakas forests where mylife shall pass pleasantly there as in my fathers palace. My only duty is to be truthful to you; I

will obey every wish of yours; cast away bad feeling at my courage in voluntarily offering to

accompany you to the woods; and wrath at my insolence in flouting your command to stay inAyodhya. Your mighty arms which guards even the strangers will surely guard me and I have no

fears; protection to a woman under the feet of ones spouse is preferable under all circumstances


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to residence in a palace or even the heavens. My choice is made my lord, I will not prize a home

with Gods in the skies, there can be no happiness to me without you. Your feet will guide my

steps you will never be burdened by my presence. I long to see the mountains, ponds, lakes, Iwish to see lotus ponds teeming with swans and waterfowls. I shall never experience any sorrow,

my mind is fondly attached to you, esteemed by you; clinging to your feet alone I shall dwell in

the forests dear Lord, take me with you; do not deny my prayer, separated from you, I will surelydie. Sri Rama heard every word from his duteous Sitas lips, yet he strove to change her will

and started speaking of woes of dwelling in the forests.


Perils of forest life:

Perceiving the hardships of life in the forest, Sri Rama was reluctant to take Sita with him to theforests and sought to soothe her grief and spoke to her to shake her resolve; O Sita, duteous

daughter of a noble line; pursue your duties, remain here. I condemn your senseless plan; this

foolish wish of yours to live in a forest. In the wild woods there is no joy but nothing but ruinoustrouble. O frail dame, really speaking at all times there is no joy in a forest; not that you will

prove a burden to me, I know it be an abode of

srimadramayanam-02-sriayodyakandam

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