Ayodhyakandam - by Sri Sridharan Lakshmanan

 INDEX:

(1) Dasaratha decides to install Sri Rama as prince regent
(2) Assembly’s response to Dasaratha’s thoughts
(3) Dasaratha’s counsel to Sri Rama
(4) Dasaratha’s foreboding, summons Sri Rama
(5) Sri Rama’s fast
(6) Ayodhya decorated
(7) Manthara’s distress
(8) Spiteful Manthara
(9) The malevolent gossip and the plot
(10) Dasaratha’s expression of thoughts in spoken words
(11) Dasaratha ensnared
(12) Dasaratha’s regret
(13) Dasaratha’s anguish
(14) Dasaratha seeks Sri Rama
(15) The arrangements
(16) Sri Rama responds to his father’s summons
(17) Sri Rama drives in state
(18) Kaikeyi pronounces the decree
(19) Sri Rama’s pledge
(20) Queen Kausalya’s regret
(21) Kausalya assuaged
(22) Lakshmana reasoned
(23) Lakshmana’s indignation
(24) Kausalya’s agitation addressed
(25) Kausalya’s blessing
(26) Sita inquires the cause of her lord’s glumness
(27) Reply of Sita
(28) Perils of forest life
(29) Sita importunes
(30) Sri Rama yields to Sita
(31) Lakshamana’s prayer granted
(32) Gifts and invocations of divine blessings
(33) Unruffled Sri Rama reaches the palace of his Royal father
(34) Inside the palace Sri Rama with Dasaratha
(35) Sumantara rebukes Kaikeyi
(36) Minister belittles Kaikeyi
(37) In hermits attire
(38) Sri Rama’s concern for Kausalya
(39) Kausalya’s advice to Sita
(40) Off to the woods
(41) Ayodhya’s lament
(42) Dasaratha’s wail
(43) Kausalya’s lament
(44) Sumitra’s words to assuage Kausalya’s grief
(45) Brahman’s entreaty
(46) First night in the exile
(47) Grieving citizens return to Ayodhya
(48) Poignant distress in Ayodhya
(49) Rivers Vedasruthi, Gomati and Syandika
(50) Meeting with Guha
(51) Guha’s request to Lakshmana:
(52) Traversing Ganga (Jhahnavi is also the name of the river Ganges)
(53) Sri Rama’s agony
(54) Secluded habitation of Sage Bharadwaja
(55) En-route to Chitrakoot
(56) Humble dwelling at Chitrakoot
(57) Sumantra’s return to Ayodhya
(58) Sumantra delivers Sri Rama’s message
(59) Sumantra describes to the distressed Dasaratha
(60) Words of solace to Kausalya
(61) Kausalya’s distress
(62) Kausalya’s words of wisdom
(63) The son of the hermit
(64) With the thought of Sri Rama in his mind Dasaratha dies
(65) Women lament
(66) Dasaratha Embalmed
(67) Need for a king
(68) The messengers
(69) Bharata’s nightmare dream
(70) Arrival of the envoys; Bharata’s departure to Ayodhya
(71) Bharata returns to Ayodhya
(72) Bharata’s interrogation
(73) Kaikeyi rebuked
(74) Bharata’s frenzied sorrow
(75) Bharata renounces
(76) Dasaratha’s funeral
(77) Completion of all obsequies
(78) Ire manifests on Manthara
(79) Authoritative order from Bharata
(80) The Royal road ready
(81) Vasistha summons Bharata (The conclave).
(82) Bharata rejects Vasistha’s counsel
(83) The journey commenced
(84) Guha’s disgust
(85) Bharata and Guha’s conversation
(86) Guha’s proclamation
(87) Guha’s narrative
(88) The Ingudi Tree
(89) Voyage across Ganga
(90) At Saint Bharadwaja’s Hermitage
(91) Bharadwaja’s impressive banquet
(92) Bharata takes leave of Saint Bharadwaja
(93) Off to Chitrakoot
(94) Enchanting Chitrakoot
(95) River Mandakini
(96) The extraordinary arrow
(97) Lakshmana provoked
(98) Lakshmana pacified
(99) Bharata presses forward to Sri Rama’s hermitage
(100) Coming together of brothers
(101) Lessons on judicature
(102) Interrogated Bharata replies
(103) Bharata continues to beseech Sri Rama
(104) The funeral observance
(105) The get-together
(106) Sri Rama’s discussion
(107) Bharata’s response
(108) Sri Rama responds to Bharata
(109) Jabali’s intercession
(110) Sri Rama castigates Jabali
(111) Vasistha as moderator
(112) Sri Rama counsels Bharata
(113) The sandals
(114) Bharata returns homewards with the sandals
(115) Desolate Ayodhya greets Bharata
(116) Reign from Nandigram
(117) The apparition of Khara and the Hermits words to Sri Rama
(118) Anasuya’s counsel to Sita
(119) Dialogue between Sita and Anasuya
(120) Off to the Dandaka forests

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, Bharata’s 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 Bharata’s 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 Dasaratha’s conscience the promise he made to Kaikeyi’s 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

Dasratha decides to install Sri Rama as prince regent: Bharata has set off to his maternal grandfather’s (king Asvapathi) house in the company of Shatrugna (Shatrugna, meaning slayer of foes and this word is repeated as an exhaustive epithet) where they were entertained with love and care, even so, the aged father Dasaratha was always in their mind, nor could the aged emperor’s 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 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 and agony 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, (Bharata’s 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.

Assembly’s response to Dasaratha’s 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 Ikshvaku kings; 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 son Sri 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 have secured 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 conflicting views (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 Sri Rama 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 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 and is 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 Dasaratha do 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.”

Dasaratha’s counsel to Sri Rama: The emperor responded to the supplication of the congregation thus, “It gives me immense pleasure 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 are considered 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 the procurement of and keeping the entire requisites ready next morning. After the detailed briefing of the sage 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 on hearing 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 he greeted 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 seat illumined 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, “Kausalya’s pride, and the eldest amongst the princes, this congregation has been appreciative of your excellences, people’s 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 to resort 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 those gathered 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. . (The vices 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, squandering one’s patrimony, abusive speech, and cruelty in punishment)

Dasaratha’s foreboding, summons Sri Rama: (While marrying Bharata’s 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 his claim 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 Sri Rama’s abode to tender the emperor’s order. Renewed call form the emperor induced anxious doubts and fears in Sri Rama’s mind, who in his turn asked Sumantra to tell the basis of fresh summon without any deduction. Sumantra replied thus, “Prince your father required your presence 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 emperor began “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 portray dire 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 you as 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 scrupulously abides 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 his father Sri Rama hastily proceeded to his abode, not finding Sita there he went to his mother’s mansion, where he saw his mother Kausalya devoutly praying to all the Gods to protect her Sri Rama’s royal fortune. At that moment after hearing of Sri Rama’s 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 for Sita’s 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 in vain 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, to know 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 own residence.

Sri Rama’s fast: After having instructed Sri Rama on the observance of vows prior to his installation as the prince 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 Rama’s residence to explain to him the principle in 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 down from his seat and escorted him inside. Pleased with Sri Rama’s civility, the king’s 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 detail the 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 Rama’s 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 shone arrayed with flowers, garlands, and banners, the noise of the inquisitive crowd involved in banter, and glad acclaim sounded like the roar of ocean’s 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 Sage Vasistha reached Dasaratha’s 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 emperor strode 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 Vishnu’s blessings. For the pleasure of the supreme deity, with due veneration he consigned the ghee in the cup to the sacred fire and therafter 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 handed over 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 heard the 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 merchant’s shops. On the occasion of Sri Rama’s installation the main road of Ayodhya was strewn with offerings of flowers and perfumed with the whiff of incense by the citizens of Ayodhya. Having decorated the city in festal décor, conversation at every square centered on Sri Rama’s 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 his age 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 Ayodhya looked like the sea-water infested with aquatic creatures

Manthara’s 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 the destruction 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 Kaikeyi’s palace, observed the well decorated Ayodhya rendered noisy on all sides, thronged by excessively delighted 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 with overjoyed 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 the people, 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 to the royal power.’ Enraged Manthara her soul ablaze with sinful thoughts rushed to where Queen Kaikeyi 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, “your doleful 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 Kaikeyi’s heart; hate for Sri Rama “It is only my concern for your weal that has brought me here, my soul is now plunged 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 soothing words, 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 and thus the rival claimant to the throne is far from sight. The wealth, power, the substance from this day will be Kausalya’s, 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 gain would 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 the emperor 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 Rama the 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 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 to empowering 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 Rama’s reign. I see Bharata 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 Kausalya’s son will be heir associate on the morrow when moon and Pushya meet, 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 Bharata’s 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 excellences is 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 Rama’s reign on the kingdom ends Bharata will succeed Sri Rama. I only see that Bharata’s coronation to follow Sri Rama’s reign and as such there 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 are unable 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 father’s will, 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 Bharata must endure all evils emanating from Sri Rama’s 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 born enemy of Sri Rama. Also you have in the past poured scorn on Kausalya and defied her. With Sri Rama 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 coronation repay to you her grudge and the only course available to you dear lady is to crown Bharata and drive Sri Rama to the 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 Rama’s hopes on the kingdom be in vain 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 ago in 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 called Sambara. 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 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 on the 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 a mournful 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 and claim 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 highly flattered 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 public consecration 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 her charm, proceeded to the mourner’s 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

Dasaratha’s 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 lay distressed 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 issued orders 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 emperor’s 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 queen and found out from the maid that the flustered queen was in rage and has sought the mourners cell as her present abode. The world’s 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 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 pleases you, what will be gained by you through self torture ,O timid lady get up.” Consoled by 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 having bound 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 Rama’s name transfer them in Bharata’s 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.”

Dasaratha’s regret: When Kaikeyi pressed her oppressive request, Dasaratha’s mind was in deep anguish, sitting on the 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 before fainting, 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 I or 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 your immoral 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 of Ikshvaku with disgrace and disorder. Afflicted with grief to hear of Sri Rama’s projected installation you are severely tormenting me; however if you wish to ascertain my feeling towards 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 Raghu’s race, instead have mercy on me after seeing my tears flowing 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 by indescribable 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 Dasaratha’s pleading in a tone impelled with rage, “O monarch you owe your life to me; you granted the boons to me of your own 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 violate pledge 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 will surely die by taking plentiful toxin in your very presence. I swear by my son and myself, only Sri Rama’s banishment will please me.” Puzzled and speechless king gazed on his once lovely queen 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 altogether taken 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 once Sri 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 Sri Rama is now ruined, all the assembled kings will ask the all important question, how did this foolish scion of the Ikshvaku rule for so long; to all who enquire how can I tell them that Sri Rama .is exiled yielding to Kaikeyi’s 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 Sri Rama, 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 mother’s love, sister’s 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 Rama’s father. I will die soon, I cannot perceive with mournful eyes Sri Rama wandering alone in the forests and hear Sita’s 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 be enjoying the comforts of the palace, hears me say “go away to the forest he will not 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 be widowed, 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 have brought 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 be alive. 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.

Dasaratha’s 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 he was 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, he has 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 be untrue, 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 to move 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 in extreme 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 take my 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 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 part even 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. O righteous 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 morrow consecration 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 sages will 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 free yourself 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 Dasaratha cried “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 associated with the installation entered the well decorated streets where people gathered in large numbers. He finally entered the emperor’s palace and reached the gate of the emperor’s gynaeceum, he told the king’s charioteer minister present there; “Inform the king I am here, with all the requisites 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 emperor’s deadly grief, quickly entered the royal chamber, stood besides the royal chief, and began to sing the customary early morning praises 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 to fatigue, quickly escort Sri Rama here”. Sumantra waited for Dasaratha’s 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 king’s family priest Vasistha, Vamadeva and others. The ministers, the army commanders as well as the foremost amongst the mercantile community gathered 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 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 for the 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 the reasons 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 is disobeyed. 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 Rama’s coronation. Sumantra further saw the lovely palace of Sri Rama that vied in grandeur with Indra’s abode and the passage leading to the entrance was overcrowded with numerous people who stood there to laud their master.

Sri Rama responds to his father’s summons: The son of the bard Sumantra, passed through the crowded door to reach the innermost gate of Sri Rama’s abode and told the warders guarding the gate, “Tell Sri Rama that the charioteer Sumantra 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 father’s command the charioteer minister was there. Sumantra skilled in gentle courtesies and who is also be familiar 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 to Sita 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 his messenger 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 father’s decree the consecration and the rites which sanctified the rulers might; should be yours. May you be guarded in the east by Indra’s 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 the northern 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 departed from 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 that chariot. 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, from now sure, Kausalya’s 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 who marched 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.

Sri Rama drives in state: A blissful Sri Rama while on his way to his father’s palace, heard numberless people on the streets 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 imperial sway. 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 father’s palace Sri Rama went through the three gates in his chariot and through the remaining two he went on foot. Thus the monarch’s noble son Sri Rama went to meet his father, while the multitude waited outside with elation and with eagerness in anticipation of his return through the expected gates.

Kaikeyi pronounces the decree: Sri Rama on entering the gynaeceum saw his father’s 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 eyes blinded with tears. The sight of the hapless monarch troubled with mysterious misery dismayed Sri Rama who was used to the sight of his father’s calm gaze; he bestowed his thought on the inconceivable grief of the monarch at this juncture. Sri Rama humbly sought from the queen the reasons for his father’s pallid demeanor, wondering what words or deeds of his (Sri Rama’s) caused such an anguish in Dasaratha. Imploring queen Kaikeyi the cause for Dasaratha’s predicament, Sri Rama wondered what action of his caused the emperor’s present plight, “Today why 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 to secure. 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 for this 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 bothering him, he refrains from speaking to you for fear of his words inflicting pain on you, but, you as duty bids must fulfill your father’s promise. In the days of the yore your father granted me two boons; 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 father’s promise will not collapse I will tell you in 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 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 from the 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; restored him 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 will have to maintain your father’s 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 father’s 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 and firm, obey the monarch’s words and save the emperor from the delicate situation”. Hearing Kaikeyi speak thus, Sri Rama never betrayed any grief but was dismayed at his father’s lot who was afflicted by the agony of impending separation from his darling son.

Sri Rama’s pledge: Unmoved and calm, noble Sri Rama, without quail responded to queen Kaikeyi’s 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 so stern 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 why my 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 father’s words and I will proceed to the Dandaka forests to spend twice seven years.” Elated with Sri Rama’s foregoing words Kaikeyi continued further “Messengers will be sent to fetch Bharata from my father’s home but you Sri Rama should not linger here, it is good and wise; you proceed to the Dandaka forests at this 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 and fell 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 father’s plighted word 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 had to 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 Sita’s heart and bid farewell to my dear Mother Kausalya. O queen Kaikeyi care must be taken by Bharata that 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 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 were filled 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 his mother’s mansion to disclose the mournful news he brought. As Sri Rama along with brave Lakshmana approached his mother’s 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 dreadful tidings to his mother.

Queen Kausalya’s regret: When Sri Rama emerged out of Kaikeyi’s 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, even before 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 the same way he treats his mother, he will go into exile today. Our imprudent king is foregoing Sri Rama in casting away the world’s 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, he proceeded to his mother’s 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 Rama’s arrival, impelled by maternal 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 Sri Rama, now answered his mother in the following words: “I am here to convey in terms of my father’s 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.” Hearing these 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 within the 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 husband’s 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 rival consorts. 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 Kaikeyi’s servants. In misery, in grief hopeless days 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 Rama’s face. Alas, my fasts, my vows and prayers have all been in vain. I am at this point in time comparable to the plight of a lion’s weeping prey, neither my heart breaks with this pressing blow and nor there is room in Yama’s 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 mother cow 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 gentle creatures]

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 senile king 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 Rama’s fame is never tarnished by any faults, nor has he caused any offence in the least to anyone; be his foes or any wretched outsider has 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 of such irrational orders, Sri Rama is not obliged to obey, the crown is rightfully his. Before this plot 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 after entering 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 Kaikeyi’s designs, we will with our power resist this move even in war; GENTLE PATIENCE 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 Kaikeyi’s 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 rival’s 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 mother’s (mine) voice and win a seat among immortals like Kasyapa’s great ascetic son, Prajapati. If you consider reverence be due to your father; mother’s 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 mother righteous Sri Rama replied, “I have no powers to break my father’s commands and cited the instances of Kandu, Sagara’s sixty thousand sons, Jamadagni, who have all been obedient to their father’s commands. “The deeds of these and several others act as my guide and I am resolute, I will faithfully fulfill my father’s command that to me is the only righteous path.” Turning to his brother Lakshmana he said: “Your supreme devotion and love to me makes you talk accordingly, my mother’s distress is great and the matchless weight of agony almost drives her to death. “Dear Lakshmana truth is duty’s noblest base and duty is supreme, man must 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 aside contemptible thoughts which smack of warrior’s 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 father’s words, please forego the preparations for my coronation; I will 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 father’s commands likewise by right and love, I renew my command 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 and self-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 love or 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 her lord 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 father’s words”. Firm in his resolve and speaking thus, he soothed his mother in these several words and as a mark of reverence went around 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 the following 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 got for my consecration be sent back to Bharata’s coronation rites; let Kaikeyi’s 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 go into 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 Kaikeyi’s purpose 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 is Fate 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 Fate all living things must bow and bend; no man can contend with fate’s 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. Now Lakshmana 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 hermit’s vow. Lakshmana let not your heart deplore the change in my fortunes, though queen Kaikeyi’s vile may 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”.

Lakshmana’s indignation: Lakshmana’s frame of mind swayed between misery at the disruption of coronation and amusement over Sri Rama’s 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 warrior’s race cannot in spinelessness bring 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 see through the vicious intent of the iniquitous couple (Dasaratha and Kaikeyi), is devious? O Rama they 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 in thought 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 your father’s 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 fate’s decree. I will this day demonstrate to the mankind the gulf between 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, exile is 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 Rama’s reply to him: “the orders of my father I will obey and I shall never oppose that, that is the path of my duty”

Kausalya’s agitation addressed: Seeing Sri Rama resolute in upholding his father’s decree, Kausalya spoke to Sri Rama in between 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 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 bereft of 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 if he 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 wishes of 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 that is 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 words cause 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 and cheer. 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 caused by 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 to your expectant mother.” Kausalya then conferred benedictions on her son Sri Rama consciously after seeing Sri Rama’s constant and unmoved resolve to go the woods.

Kausalya’s 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 Raghu’s, you follow the footsteps of the righteous and return after serving the period of exile. During the period of your exile 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 hermit’s 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 of my Sri Rama, keep company, and guide my Sri Rama”. Kausalya thereafter offered oblations to the sacrificial fire and offered worship for Sri Rama’s 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, return safe 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 mother’s benediction went round his mother clockwise and in a token of reverence pressed his mother’s feet and after taking leave of his mother he proceeded to Sita’s home.

Sita inquires the cause of her lord’s glumness: Dutiful Sri Rama bade farewell to his mother Kausalya, received the benisons invoked on him by 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 Rama’s dejected eyes, anguished face; in short Sri Rama could not hide from Sita the load his heart bore; his clammy countenance said it all. Janaka’s 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 at this 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 past my father gave two boons to Queen Kaikeyi who now has invoked the two boons; she has now sought a stay on the preparation of my installation as the prince regent, instead Bharata is to be the heir to my father’s throne and for fourteen years I am exiled to the Dandaka forests. Bound by the boons my father’s will makes Bharata heir to the kingdom, in obedience to my father’s command I proceed to the woods, before I seek the forlorn woods I come to speak to you. My irreproachable spouse, in Bharata’s presence never speak of me with pride, that it will be odious to the monarch’s 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 Bharata’s soul, for he is Ayodhya’s king, the head and the lord of our line. I proceed to the woods to make my dwelling there for the next fourteen years and you see that your conduct is never offensive; dear Sita please keep my words.”

Reply of Sita: Listening to Sri Rama’s 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 listening to, 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 husband’s fate, the king’s 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 the husband’s lot, it is acceptable for a wife to follow her husband’s path; it is much more rewarding than to live in rich palaces, filled with pleasure. I seek with you Dandaka’s forests where my life shall pass pleasantly there as in my father’s 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 in Ayodhya. 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 one’s spouse is preferable under all circumstances 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, I wish 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 surely die”. Sri Rama heard every word from his duteous Sita’s 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 the forests 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 ruinous trouble. 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 eternal misery; abandon all dreams of living in the forests. In the wild woods, the voice of terror of the lion is intensified by the noise of the on-rushing streams from the hill; the pathways are rugged, covered with creepers and thorny shrubs rendered noisy by wild cocks; serpents of diverse kinds creep on the tracks in large number; O haughty lady life in the forest is one of misery. Again on seeing an unfortunate human being ugly animals in their madness attack him on all sides, exhausted through toil entailed by search for food in the shape of fruits, roots etc, on cold nights one has to lie down on bed of dry leaves, moths, mosquitoes, scorpions, worms grasshoppers and flies disturb the wanderer and wake him from his troubled doze, manifold bodily sufferings torment and perils of various kinds threaten a man taking up his abode in a forest, life in the woods is thus a perennial source of suffering. Rivers are full of crocodiles and marshy too, as such difficult even for the elephants to cross, during the day the toil is search for the food in the form of fruits fallen to the ground blown by wind, and this is the only aliment, as such life in the forests is one of extreme privation and is full of woes. In the forest, worship must be offered according to the ordinances laid by the sages, hospitality must be shown to the unexpected guests, and ablutions must be performed thrice daily; The wind blows furiously, thick darkness prevails and appetite is insatiable, great are the perils in the woods, thus the life in the woods is besieged with hardships. The life in the forest is nothing but grief and pain, every thought must be applied only to penance and there must be no fear of things that deserves to be feared, Enough my love, forest life is not fit for you and the wild forest is no place for you” so concluded Sri Rama however Sita did not accept Sri Rama’s conclusion.

Sita importunes: With distress Sita heard Sri Rama’s plea, her face wet with tears, she made her reply in soft low accents. “All the woes and dangers that lie in the forest life which you have detailed are to cause horror in me, I would not consider it to cause me any pain, to me each woe is a charm, and each loss means a gain. Bull, buffalo, lion, tiger, deer, elephant and every beast that frequents forests will flee on seeing your matchless grandeur and appearance. Emperor Dasaratha’s command ordaining exile to you extends to me too; separated from you, my heart will break and I will cease to exist, with you by my side even the mighty Indra can do me no harm. Also it was brought home to me by you that a devoted wife who stands disunited with her spouse would not be able to survive. In the days before my marriage to you, I heard the chief of the Brahmans foretell that I am destined to lead a life in the forests; again while I was unwed I heard an ascetic woman predicting my dwelling in the woods to my mother; now let your father’s pronouncement; and the prophesy of the Brahmans not be falsified; I must dwell in the woods. I know well life in the wooded area life is full of woes and the attendant grief it entails; I know too that suffering is experienced only by men of unrestrained mind who disturb the lives of those who dwell there. Dear lord, this pilgrimage to the forest enchants my heart, being by your side my soul will be free and spirit will be purified. I also heard a woman who is lawfully wedded stands united with her spouse not only in this world but in the other world too. I was true and good to you always, please do not deny my request take me with you to the forests if you will not in grief I will give up my life” she said. She implored in vain her lord did not grant her plea, tears in torrents ran down her cheeks.

Sri Rama yields to Sita: Even as Sri Rama strove to assuage the anguish in Sita, whose mental disposition was oscillating with fear and anger on the one side and love and pride on the other, in furtherance of her plan addressed taunting words to Sri Rama; “Could not my father the unwise Janaka discern in Sri Rama a woman in man’s guise, also dear Lord when you flee to the forests leaving me, who has accepted you in body and heart; mind and soul, would not the average man in Ayodhya wrongly utter the words, Sri Rama was lacking in nerve, incapable as he was of protecting his wedded wife, hence he fled to the forests after leaving his wife Sita behind. My lord you cannot leave me in the custody of others, please do not forsake me your wife. I will not cause you grief or pain, or will I be an unbearable burden, wherever you are that is my heaven my bliss and without you any place is hell to me. Each step which I tread with you in the forests be it thorny trees, tangled grass, my feet shall only feel the ground, as soft deer’s skin and the dust kicked by the furious wind which settles on my body shall give me the pleasure of sandal paste applied on my body, the leaves spread as bed will give me more comforts than the soft carpets. The roots and fruits be they scanty or plentiful will be nectar to me and my presence with you in the forests shall never add one pain, nor cause sadness to you. My presence with you in the forests will not warrant grief, nor care nor will I be a burden to you and I cannot live even for an hour after you leave, how then can you shun me for ten long years three and one, should you not take me with you to the forests I resolve to die before you depart;” saying so Sita let go anguish wrung wild cry which Sri Rama could not bear. Around Sita, Sri Rama spread his arms and gripped her tightly, brought her back to life and spoke to her, “Dear daughter of the Videhan king, without you even in heaven I will have no bliss, I was till this moment not aware of what was in your heart, since you wish to dwell in the woods with me, I resolve to take you to the woods and I will protect you from all perils of forest life. Dear Sita I cannot decline my father’s commands to go to the forests, I want to uphold my father’s claims to truth. To my father, mother, preceptor, my obedience to their orders is pledged, otherwise my life is worn out in strength. Devoted sons, who discharge their filial debt, win the worlds where Gods and minstrels are. In this earth there is no holy thing, not truth, not gift, not lordly fee, not reputation, excepting the glad obedience to the truthful completion of the commands of father, mother and the teacher. My father’s order exiles me, I endure exile as discharge of duty and your earnest thoughts impel you to lead a life with me in the woodlands. O faultless Sita come with me to the forest, you preserve unchanged this noble desire of yours, please do not be slow, bestow food on mendicants and distribute the treasures amongst our followers and proceed with me to the forests”. Ecstatic on knowing her Lord has approved her going to the forest, feeling reassured in her mind, overjoyed to ponder over the speech of her Lord, Sita without delay commenced gifting riches and jewels to virtuous souls.

Lakshamana’s prayer granted: Lakshmana was hearing the conversation involving Sri Rama and Sita with tearful eyes, truly distressed holding the feet of his glorious brother he said “If you will make forest your home where elephants and roebucks roam; I too, will with bow and arrows precede you and take the path you choose. If your mind is set on proceeding to the delightful woodlands rendered noisy all round by birds and swarms of deer I shall be walking ahead of you armed with a bow. Without you I need no home, nor company of the Gods nor do I care for my life”. When Sri Rama tried to reason it with Lakshmana and denied permission, Lakshmana replied to Sri Rama “Even though I was permitted by you to accompany you to the forest; why is that permission stayed now. (There is nothing in the text to suggest that Lakshmana was granted permission to accompany Sri Rama to the woods. A careful reading of the text reveals in Sarga 26, Sri Rama tells Sita “show special love and care to Bharata and Shatrugna” Lakshmana takes this to imply he is in the party) You are my refuge, be kind to me, do not leave me behind I cannot live without you.” Sri Rama with soothing words denied Lakshmana’s prayer, he pleaded with him to stay back, during his exile in the woods. He spoke to his faithful brother, “You are a truthful brother, a virtuous friend, a valiant hero, if you are to accompany Sita and me to the exile, who is there to take care of Kausalya and Sumitra? With the mighty emperor now a captive of concupiscence, Aswapathi’s daughter has won imperial power for her son, certainly Bharata will not accord good treatment to Kausalya and Sumitra. Also Bharata having obtained sovereignty will stand by his mother’s (Kaikeyi’s) side, and will not maintain mother Kausalya from neglect, and she will sink grieving in despair.” Sri Rama made out that it was the duty of Lakshmana to heed the counsel and protect mother Kausalya from neglect; thus Lakshmana would have shown great affection to his dear brother and also held fast to the sacred duty. Sri Rama concluded with Lakshmana “Obey this one request I make.” Lakshmana addressed Sri Rama’s concerns in the following words “Should Bharata the king, seduced by ill signifying pride, stray from the path of righteousness, my vengeful hands shall kill his wretched counselors and all those who aid him and also him. Kausalya and my mother queen Sumitra can maintain themselves with the ample revenues at their disposal, can be protected and supported by thousands like me. This being the reality there is no reason to deny permission to me to accompany you. In the forests I will bring fruits and roots that you and your Videhan spouse have to eat, and my toil will be to keep watch on you whether you are awake or asleep”. Hearing Lakshmana’s supplication, Sri Rama responded, “Go and bid adieu to your friends and attendants, bring the two celestial bows of fearful might and quivers containing never failing arrows and other arsenal which lie deposited at the residence of Sage Vasistha.” Lakshmana, assured of his sojourn in the forests, after taking leave of his near and dear ones approached Sage Vasistha with reverence and took the celestial arms and returned to Sri Rama. Sri Rama asked Lakshmana to summon quickly Sage Vasistha’s son Suyajna, and also other suave Brahman’s to enable Sri Rama to pay his reverence to them before his departure to the woods.

Gifts and invocations of divine blessings: Sri Rama’s genial wish was conveyed to Suyajna, who after completing his ordained rites at noontime accompanied Lakshmana to Sri Rama’s abode. The son of Raghu met Suyajna with reverence; requested him to accept the exceptional jewels offered as gifts to him. Urged by Sita he spoke these words, “Before departing to the woods my wife wants to gift your spouse precious ornaments for her use, and also send to your abode a wonderful couch inlaid with precious stones and gold, please accept the gifts, O saintly friend I also gift you the famed elephant, Shatrunjay, gifted to me by my uncle to you along with gold coins,” the celebrated Suyajna accepted the gifts and pronounced divine benedictions on Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. Sri Rama thereafter spoke to his adored brother Lakshmana and asked him to bring Agastya (a son of the sage Agastya), Kausika (a son of Viswamitra) and rained on them precious gifts. The venerable Chitraratha, a charioteer cum minister of long standing was gratified with costly jewels, apparels and animals of various descriptions. Next gifts were showered on Brahman’s who maintain the sacred fire every day, subsequently to the multitudes of celibates who study the Katha and Kalapa recensions of Vedas, to the students and teachers of the Taitreya portion of the Yajur Veda, on Brahmans who wait with benedictions upon Queen Kausalya were all gifted with loads of precious treasures. The prince of men Sri Rama with Lakshmana’s aid parted the treasures to the young and the old, to the afflicted, to the poor and the Brahmans. Sri Rama after having given all his wealth thereafter spoke to his dependants as follows ‘During my exile guard my house and Lakshmana’s house as well”. After all the gifts were distributed, Trijata a Brahman, urged by his spouse, approached the prince of extraordinary might and expressed his sore privations and sought gifts. Sri Rama bent on supporting Trijata, said in jest “O aged man I will bestow to you all the cows that your staff covers when hurled by you”. Trijata bound his cloth tightly around his waist, and whirled the staff and hurled it with mightiest effort. The staff hurled by Trijata fell close to a bull in the midst of multitude of cows, numbering over several thousand that were grazing there. Embracing Trijata Sri Rama spoke to him, “You were specifically asked for to undergo this trail to test your remarkable strength, no offence should be taken by you, if you require anything else please ask for it bestowal of gifts on you will bring me renown.” Sri Rama caused the herdsmen drive all the cows to Trijata’s place. Sri Rama then spoke to Trijata thus “Be not angry with me Sire, the jest of mine was only playful; you are given not only these thousands of cows but also but also the herdsmen, besides wealth to maintain these, please seek anything more and I will give you” Sri Rama gave much wealth to all his near and dear conformable to the status of the individuals.

Unruffled Sri Rama reaches the palace of his Royal father: Having given out all his wealth that was earned by him for the sake of Brahmans, Sita, Sri Rama, and Lakshmana with their celestial arms proceeded to see the emperor. The dense crowd not only thronged the streets but also crowded the turret, roof and portico, they gazed in distress the trio of Sri Rama Lakshmana and Sita proceed on foot to Dasaratha’s gynaceum. The comments of the people heard on the streets and elsewhere were, “Though Sri Rama has known the sweets of power he will not swerve from the path of duty, and to preserve his father’s plighted word given to Queen Kaikeyi Sri Rama now walks unattended through the streets of Ayodhya. Rain, heat and cold will reduce Sita, who habitually paints her body with paste of sandal to pallor. Some demon has possessed Dasaratha’s mind otherwise he would not exile his dear son who is adorned with six superior graces viz. harmlessness, compassion, learning, amiability of disposition, subjugation of senses, and tranquility of mind. Sri Rama the foremost of his race is pure, tender, kind, decent, religious, is free of passion and hence misery does not afflict him. Sri Rama is the root of the tree of humanity, when the root is hewn away, the tree, fruits, flower, and bud decay. Now like the faithful Lakshmana we all will with our wives and kinsmen follow Sri Rama truthfully to the forests and let Queen Kaikeyi reign over the land where once we have been. When we all make woods our homes, the lions, tigers, elephants, snakes will in fear quit the forests and make Ayodhya their homes. Let Kaikeyi with her son and kin rule the desolate and depopulated kingdom.” Such were the varied words the crowd spoke. Though Sri Rama heard all of these words, he was resolute in his purpose and on approaching his father’s splendid palace he went inside and saw Sumantra standing with down cast eyes and gloomy pastiness, he commanded the charioteer minister to announce his arrival to HIS MAJESTY.

Inside the palace Sri Rama with Dasaratha: The incomparable Sri Rama asked the unhappy and distraught Sumantra to tell Emperor Dasaratha of his presence. Sumantra hastened to the emperor who was in a state of daze grieving for Sri Rama, spoke to himwith joined palms; ‘Sri Rama after having dealt his wealth to the Brahmans; having taken leave of his friends, desires to see you before proceeding to the woods.” The truthful, faultless emperor Dasaratha told Sumantra “Go call all my wives; I want them around when I see Sri Rama.” When informed by Sumantra of the call of the monarch the three hundred and fifty wives of emperor Dasaratha, without delay came thronging to the splendid hall and stood around Queen Kausalya. The emperor commanded Sumantra to let Sri Rama in quickly. Even as Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita were led inside the royal hall by the charioteer minister, on seeing Sri Rama, Dasaratha swiftly rose from his royal seat, trembling with despair, rendered half lifeless with deep sorrow ran with all his strength to his dear Sri Rama and fell fainting on the ground. All the women present inside let go a wild lament, saying “Ah Rama” they wailed and wept. Sri Rama, Lakshmana with the gentle aid of Sita laid the emperor on a couch. When Dasaratha gained his awareness, Sri Rama with suppliant hands spoke to the emperor these words; “Great King, you are the lord of all of us, bestow your blessings on us with the gentle look of yours. Before I proceed to the Dandaka forest, I came here to bid farewell to you. My truthful and honest entreaties failed to dissuade Lakshmana and Sita in their resolve to accompany me to the forest. Great king cast aside your sorrow grant us leave to depart to the forest.” Sri Rama thereafter watched with intent his father’s consent who mourning his fate spoke to his beloved son “Sri Rama I have been deprived of my senses, I gave the boons Kaikeyi craved, I am misled by her, I am unfit to reign, and now Sri Rama take me the captive and be the ruler of Ayodhya in my place.” Sri Rama with reverence answered his father, “O king you will reign this kingdom for another thousand years, I for my part will go to the forest to spend nine years and five and I will not pay attention to and will not heed to the delight of the ruler ship of Ayodhya. On my return upon completion of the exile, I will clasp your feet once more; after redeeming my pledge my king.” A captive in the noose of truth, weeping, distressed with woe and ruth; goaded unseen by queen Kaikeyi the monarch spoke to Sri Rama; “Go then O Rama, to the forest without distress, earn success, joy and safe return. I swear by my truth, dear Rama, I deeply grieve for my son, I am misguided with hidden guile by the traitress Kaikeyi and you feel compelled to uphold my plighted word, heed me stay this night with me and your mother.” Sri Rama having calmly heard every word that his miserable father had spoken answered humbly his father, “I prefer departure to the forest this very day, Kaikeyi asked me to speed away and I agreed. Father is the God for each of us, and you are my God and I will be true to your decree. I will go to the forests, please bring to an end your sorrows. Let the promised boon to Kaikeyi be hers in full. This land, her store of wealth, her multitudes of men, her grain, are no longer mine. Be true O king, let Bharata reign, I will heed your spoken word. Most truthful king, I cannot stay back even for a while, bring to an end your sorrow. Kaikeyi commanded me to speed away to the forest and I answered yes I will. Thus I too am bound by my pledge given to Kaikeyi, and am proceeding forthwith. Grieve not for me, cast aside your gloom, I will uphold your plighted word, be comfortable, weep no more, the fourteen years of my exile will soon pass by. My resolution to dwell in the forests can in no case be altered, carrying out your command I reside in the woods with ascetics for fourteen years, neither sovereignty nor joy pleasing the mind is coveted by me. A father has been declared a deity, let Bharata rule over this globe, enjoy the sovereignty within the bounds of righteousness, and let the pledge given by you to Kaikeyi come true.” Embracing his Sri Rama the emperor who had fallen on evil days fell unconscious to the ground, all the consorts of the monarch barring one let go a loud wail.

Sumantara rebukes Kaikeyi: Enraged Sumantra pulverizing his palm with palm, after carefully seeing the temper of emperor, spoke with scorn to the queen, “Kaikeyi you dread no sin, you have betrayed the lord of the world and committed a dire sin. Do not despise Dasaratha, he is a kind lord and is attached to you by affection and esteem. After the death of the king his eldest son succeeds him by birthright, do not violate this acknowledged tenet of the Ikshvaku race. When I see your despicable sin, I marvel why the earth not yawn and consume you. Despite this if you want your son Bharata to rule over the emperor’s domain, none will oppose your offence and trespass, instead all of us including the Brahmans, who now inhabit this empire will go to the forests along with Sri Rama. Kaikeyi your action is comparable to the felling of a mango tree and tending in its place a neem tree; neem tree however well tended will never yield sweet fruits. It is said that sons acquire the qualities of the father and daughters acquire the quality of their mother let that not be true with you. We know the vile offense of your mother. By virtue of a boon conferred, your father could understand the language of all created beings and even the talk of the subhuman species could be understood by him. Your glorious father once while he was still in his bed, he could make sense of a shrill cry let go by the bird and repeatedly laughed over it, your indignant mother sought the reasons of laughter from your father. Your royal father insisted that if he were to answer her query it will result in his death, the royal lady replied to your father ‘Live or die in any case you will tell me the reason.’ The king consulted the holy sage who had bestowed the boon, who said “let her die or depart you are not to reveal the secret.” Your father never complied with your mother’s intent on evil and repudiated her and thereafter lived like the God of riches. Do not as incited by the wicked, constrain your husband, who is the protector of the world, follow the will of your spouse and be the protectress of the people here. Urged by folly do not stray from the path of virtue, if Sri Rama leaves for the forest a great calumny will surely spread about you, and there will be no one dwelling in this city, who will care and love you, even half as well.” Thus with joined palms Sumantra spoke striving to move Kaikeyi, however the queen was unmoved, unsoftened and unyielding or could the eyes that watched her view one yielding look.

Minister belittles Kaikeyi: Dasaratha bound by the cord of pledge given to Kaikeyi, deeply troubled; with tears and sighs spoke again to Sumantra “Send with Sri Rama all treasures and objects of enjoyments, such that Sri Rama will not feel the pangs of exile and loss of kingdom. Let that which constitutes my exchequer and my granary, accompany Sri Rama, let him yield gifts in adequate measure to the hermits, officiating in the sacrifices conducted by him, mighty Bharata will rule over Ayodhya.” Hearing these words of Dasaratha queen Kaikeyi without any remorse said, “Bharata shall not inherit an empty kingdom, which is unsubstantial and un-enjoyable; O pious soul.” Dasaratha retorted “O hostile and vile woman, this was not part of the boon you sought, why you have not set out this proposition at the outset.” Even before the emperor could finish Queen Kaikeyi totally resolute and without compunction started “In your very line Sagara thoroughly disgraced and exiled his son Asamanja; you should likewise send in exile Sri Rama.” The monarch lamented, “Shame on you for speaking in this manner.” On that occasion good old minister and sage Siddhartha who heard Kaikeyi speak thus; spoke in rage filled tone; “Cruel Kaikeyi, Asamanja took delight in casting children even as they were playing into the river Saryu and watched with glee the children drown. When this act of the prince Asamanja was brought to the notice of the emperor Sagara; he promptly disgraced and banished his son to exile. Thus Sagara’s path was righteous, but what sin has Sri Rama done, his life has been faultless. O queen show one fault in Sri Rama and then Sri Rama will go to Dandaka forest. O queen Kaikeyi dismiss your hope to ruin Sri Rama’s bliss, else all that you will gain in return is disgrace and peoples hatred,” thus concluded the pious minded minister Siddhartha but the queen did not desist from her purpose. Hearing the remonstrance of Siddhartha, the emperor addressed his recalcitrant spouse, “O embodiment of sin be alive to your interests, your gestures are far removed from the path of righteousness, without me rule the kingdom happily with Bharata.”

In hermits attire: Sri Rama meekly said to his father, “O king I renounce all wealth, all lordship, I allow all these things to be used by Bharata; I will live in the woods on woodland fare, I am to carry a little basket, a spade, the hermits dress, and only these alone are mine and I go contented with these belongings for the fourteen years of banishment.” Sri Rama took the hermits coats of bark given to him unashamedly by Kaikeyi and bound the vesture around his waist and cast his fine raiment on the ground and likewise Sri Lakshmana followed his eldest brother. But Sita distressed and ashamed at the sight of woodland dress, stood perplexed and her sad appealing face was a picture of confusion as she could not fix the coats of bark. Quickly Sri Rama, the pride of all who cherish virtue tied the rough bark mantle over her silk raiment. This sight of Sita in the hermit attire gave rise to a bitter cry from the assembled sad women who pleaded with Sri Rama thus, “Sri Rama only you are duty bound to go in exile, please leave Sita here.” Venerable Vasistha when he saw Sita clad thus, he reprimanded Kaikeyi, ‘O evil hearted Kaikeyi with your matchless sin, you could cheat your lord the king, with vile deceit; you are lost to all sense of duty. Sita shall not wear the bark of trees; she will be the empress of Ayodhya during Sri Rama’s exile. She will occupy the throne which was offered to Sri Rama, a wife is the very self to all house holders, she is the other self .of Sri Rama, she will rule the globe. If Sita decides to leave for the woods with Sri Rama she deserves to be decorated and richly adorned; the bark of trees is not meant for her. The state in which Sri Rama is not the king will not survive, all of us in Ayodhya will follow Sri Rama to the forest. Bharata and Shatrugna will also don the bark mantles and follow his elder brother in exile, Bharata is true to his forefather’s traditions and will not pursue the erring course which you have by your grievous blunder chalked for him. O queen you shall behold only the barren land and trees.”Even though the venerable sage wielded absolute influence, he did not persuade Sita from her purpose in the least (Sita wished to follow the way of Sri Rama).

Sri Rama’s concern for Kausalya: Seeing the gently nurtured, truthful, devout, soft, fair, child of Janaka clothed in the garb of bark; the highly incensed and sad people, present there cried out, “Shame upon you king Dasaratha” Grieved by their cry and angry look, Dasaratha rebuked Kaikeyi in the words “You the worst of womankind what shade of fault you find in gentle, modest, and mild daughter of Janaka. Holy sage Vasistha is correct when he says Sita is unfit for residence in the woods, no pledge has been given by me that she would accompany her spouse to the woods attired in robes of bark. Is not one crime in sending Sri Rama for banishment complete and enough, why do you want to commit double crime thus? In hell you should serve the sentence for this crime;” saying this he sat down with a drooping head. Ready to depart for the woods, Sri Rama spoke to his father the following words, “O pious monarch my celebrated mother; revered by all, is dutiful, gentle and old, she has never blamed you ever. Please shower on her fonder love, and tenderness, for bereft of me she is left in an overwhelming sea of distress. O equal in might of Indra please ensure that my grief stricken mother does not depart to the abode of Yama when I dwell in the distant forest.

Kausalya’s advice to Sita: As the monarch was hearing Sri Rama’s pleading voice with each of his dear queens, his senses began failing, his soul shook, pangs of bitter grief choked his voice. Sorely distraught Dasaratha wailed and wept, his every thought was filled with Sri Rama, his eyes shed torrents of tears. He said “Wretched Kaikey’s torments do not kill me; surely death comes only at the appointed time, I am to see my effulgent son in the garb of a hermit.” After gathering his senses he directed Sumantra to come soon with a chariot used for pleasure drives, to take his heir of lofty fate outside the limits of the state. He instructed the member of the aristocracy to give Sita expensive robes and valuable ornaments to last the duration of exile; soon the command of the monarch was obeyed. The noble princess of uncommon birth, adorned in these stunning jewels dazzled in her innate grandeur. Queen Kausalya fondly counseled Sita, “A wife who though cherished and loved for long by her consort, ceases to esteem her husband who has fallen on evil days, is dubbed as wicked throughout this world. When the husband is struck with adversity and despair, wicked woman neglects, disobeys and deserts her husband. Wicked are those women who are untruthful by nature, swayed by passion, are of sinful resolve, are difficult to comprehend; neither glorious lineage, nor tender care, nor learning, nor gift, nor even marriage ties capture the heart of such fickle minded woman; in one moment of fluctuating mind her long marital love is estranged. Dear Sita you do not condemn my son Sri Rama, who is already condemned to exile by his parents.” Sita listened to Kausalya’s speech with joined palms and replied in graceful reverence, “I will be bound to the rules of duty to my lord; you should not include me in the faithless multitudes. From father, mother, brother and son a woman gets only a measured share of joy and from her lord (husband) a woman gets immeasurable, respect, love and bliss. I regard my lord as my God.” Sri Rama, ever duteous, asked his mother “Refrain from shedding tears, the period of exile will pass quickly like a dream. I will return safe and well”. Thereafter Sri Rama took leave of his three hundred and fifty step mothers saying “forgive me for any unkind or thoughtless words that caused pain in you. I bid good bye to all of you” The royal hall now was filled, with sound of wails, lamentation, cries, shriek and the choking sobs.

Off to the woods: After Sri Rama obtained his father’s consent to part for the woods with Sita and Lakshmana, he paid his veneration to the king and his dismayed mother. Lakshmana greeted Kausalya, he then clasped the feet of his mother Sumitra; his weeping mother spoke to that son of her, “Permitted by me you accompany Sri Rama to the woods, while wandering in the forest attend to Sri Rama carefully and truly, Sri Rama alone is your refuge whether in adversity or in prosperity, during the period of your exile Sri Rama is your father and Sita your mother and your dwelling place, the woods is Ayodhya. Go forth my son Lakshmana and return with joy.” Thereafter Sumantra with palms held together spoke to Sri Rama ‘Please ascend my car and I will leave you at the place you ask me to do, from today starts your period of exile,’ Sita with a tranquil mind occupied her seat carrying with her the robes and precious ornaments. Sri Rama and Lakshmana carrying their arms, weapons and spade, in a leather basket found their seats in the chariots and thus the trio set out on their doleful banishment. The people of Ayodhya already overcome with numbing grief wild with uncontrolled sorrow wailed aloud when the charioteer minister urged on each horse to speed, ‘listen Sumantra drive leisurely let us gaze on Sri Rama once more for it will be many more days before we get to see our pride; Sri Rama,’ saying so they sped next to the chariot shedding tears in torrents. The mournful king surrounded by his woeful wives stood saying, “Once more I will see my own dear son” saying so he hurried to the chariot carting his son of lofty mind and highest fate. Sri Rama urged Sumantra to speed and the citizens sighed ‘stay, stay’. When the king of high renown, Dasaratha saw his son moving away, he fell to the ground fainting and the cry of “Rama Rama” of his mother was all that Sri Rama saw when his mournful eyes turned backward. The sight of the troubled king fainting and that of the sad queen tormented Sri Rama, who was bound to the cord of duty. He sought to escape soon from this sight, he cried out “Sumantra drive on fast “ and Dasaratha cried out ‘stay, stay the chariot’ Thus the mind of the charioteer was tormented by the contradictory instructions from his two masters. To the distraught charioteer minister, Sri Rama said ‘A lengthened distress is bitterest pain speed on and if the wrath of the king grows hot let your answer be “I did not hear you.’ As the chariot swiftly sped past, the king’s venerable guide submitted to him, “one should not follow to a long distance him, whom one wishes to see come back home”. Heeding to their counsel Dasaratha perspiring all over the body, presented a miserable appearance.

Ayodhya’s lament: As the chariot was speeding, Sri Rama repeatedly gazed on his weeping mother, the ladies bower reverberated with cries of wail and laments “Our lord Sri Rama, the protector of the friendless, the wretched, the weak, and the poor, and all who seek his cover and support, now is enjoined by his father to seek the woods. He was never provoked even when slandered, he stilled the rage in the ill tempered, to him joy and sorrow made no difference in his attitude, he was exceptionally glorious, he treated all his step mothers in much the same way as he treated his mother Kausalya, he now seeks the Dandaka forests at his father’s behest prompted by queen Kaikeyi’s guile” All Ayodhya reeled; suddenly chilling grief and despair descended on all men, the fondly cherished Ayodhya was now plunged in woes. All created beings cursed the distressed emperor adding to his woes, all minds were disordered and distressed as Sri Rama proceeded to the woodlands.

Dasaratha’s wail: Dasaratha was rooted to the spot and gazed at the dust raised by the car carrying his duteous son Sri Rama; the king saw Sri Rama in the dust, and when he could not even see the dust the mighty monarch whose soul was restrained by justice and virtue; downcast by the grief fell on the ground. Sri Rama’s mother Kausalya lifted Dasaratha by raising the right hand of the king whose every sense had lost its tranquil; when Kaikeyi sought to raise the emperor from the ground he reproached her. The emperor told Kaikeyi, “From this day I have nothing to do with you, I disinherit you and perchance if Bharata your darling son has joy in the coronation or the sovereignty of Ayodhya, which you have won by deceit for him, let him not perform the obsequy to me upon my demise”. The monarch clinging to Kausalya in slow and mournful steps returned to his palace, ever thinking of his forlorn son. He said “ My high souled son Sri Rama where is he, he will no longer have pleasant couches to rest, nor his limbs will be perfumed, he will now have a log or stone as his pillow. Janaka’s dear child Sita, who has seen only joy and comfort, a gentle girl, her heart will dread at the roars of wild beasts. Kaikeyi, I have no will, no power to live, when my brave son is no more with me here, you begin your reign as a widowed queen” Dasaratha presented a mournful look resumed his wailing for his brave Sri Rama, his brother Lakshmana and Sri Rama’s Videhan bride Sita; he sought assistance to be taken to Kausalya’s bower; where alone he thought his wrecked heart might gain some respite. Inside Kausalya’s bower Dasaratha tossing his arms upwards lamented “O Rama! O Rama! You have forsaken me. Blessed are the people who will be living in Ayodhya, who will see my Sri Rama after the period of his exile. Kausalya my sight has left with Sri Rama; I do not see you, lay your hands on me.” Then the nightfall descended, to the monarch it was a night of trepidation, he turned to Kausalya and spoke in mournful tones, “When Sri Rama left his home my eye-sight too went with him, Kausalya I cannot see you, kindly lay your gentle hand on me.

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Kausalya’s lament: As the monarch lay on the couch with failing eyes and drooping frame Kausalya dutifully spoke to her lord; “The cruel, mean, despicable Kaikeyi with her guile banished Sri Rama to the woods; like an ominous serpent she will be bent on causing harm to me. My long armed Sri Rama with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana are brought up and are accustomed to high degree of delight and are unused to sorrows. Even if my Sri Rama was condemned and was begging for food on the streets of Ayodhya that would have been of comfort to me, but spiteful Kaikeyi hurled Sri Rama of superior fate to the gloomy woods of Dandaka. The trio now would have begun their forest life; henceforth during the period of exile are to live on grains, fruits and roots. When will I see my Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita returning joyfully to the city of Ayodhya? Surely in my former life, the most base and mean hands of mine, had denied the calves of their strength, health by denying access to the mother cow’s udders and I now pay for this sin and I am separated from my son who is endowed with all virtues. The three were exiled at the time when they should have been in the normal circumstances enjoyed the amenities of life, they are deprived of precious possessions and are now to seek the woodland fare. When will my years of woe pass, when will the relieved hour arrive and I see the lordly two together with Sita striding the streets of Royal Ayodhya and the crowd joyfully throw on them the parched grains of paddy. There is not the slightest capacity in me; O monarch to survive the grief occasioned by the separation from my son, I mourn and yearn for my Sri Rama and this separation kills me with pain”

Sumitra’s words to assuage Kausalya’s grief: Beauteous Sumitra whose mind at all times was unwaveringly dutiful sought to assuage Kausalya’s grief in the following words, “Dear queen Kausalya, why this grief; noble minded, lofty souled Sri Rama after renouncing the throne; has gone on exile together with his Lakshmana and empathetic Sita, to protect his father’s plighted words from turning artificial, untrue. The brave Sri Rama has the mighty celestial missiles bestowed by Sage Viswamitra; you need not fear any harm to Sri Rama; when he lets his arrows fly at the foemen, the enemies are sure to fall and die, the heroic trio need not fear any harm. In the guise of Sita, Goddess Lakshmi went with him to the woods; after his sojourn from exile Sri Rama with his sweet pure soul, his hero’s heart, his charm and his strong arms with his majesty and gallantry will redeem his rightful reign on the kingdom of Ayodhya. Surely Sri Rama the foremost will be installed on the throne together with Sita to share the kingdom of Ayodhya, the Earth and Goddess fortune. Nothing is hard or difficult for Sri Rama with Sita, and Lakshmana as guard, and indeed nothing is difficult to obtain for him. O queen I now tell you the truth you will be able to see Sri Rama come back to Ayodhya upon conclusion of his period of exile. Again also since all the people of Ayodhya are distressed on account of the agony caused by separation from Sri Rama, they deserve to be comforted by you. O! Godly lady; think of the day the peerless Sri Rama returning from exile and when you look at him with happy eyes brimming with tears of joy, for now shed your faint heart and grief dear Queen Kausalya.” Hearing the soothing speech of Sumitra, heavy cloud of grief in Queen Kausalya began to diminish.

Brahman’s entreaty: Emperor Dasaratha paid heed to the counsel of his venerable guide; he turned homewards after following the course of the chariot carrying Lord Sri Rama a short distance, governed by the convention prescribed for the friends and relatives to accompany a leave-taking friend to some distance only. However the citizens of Ayodhya chose to follow their idol Sri Rama, they were moving close to the swiftly moving chariot, praying, weeping and seeking Sri Rama to return to Ayodhya. Sri Rama was bent on proving the words of his father to be true, pleaded with them to shower their entire reverence and love on Bharata he said, “If you grant my fond prayer, bestow the love and high esteem on Bharata, he is ripe in wisdom though young in age. In Bharata more noble qualities than in me are to be found; while I am in exile, carry out your ordained tasks and please the king. His virtuous qualities will ensure he will prove to be a worthy king, he is ever considerate, he always thinks of your welfare, bliss and earthly gains. Endowed with kingly virtues, he is possessed of an excellent conduct, he will do things that are conducive to your interests; he is endowed with heroic qualities he will prove to be a worthy king. He is a fitting lord to cheer and remove your fear, in him all kingly qualities abound, obey him as your lord and guide, pray grant this prayer of mine treat this as your boon granted to me. Bharata is a well trained imperial prince; to please the king while I am in the woods will be your task.” The more resolute Sri Rama was on upholding his father’s plighted word, the more determined were the inhabitants of Ayodhya in making their abode in the woods with Sri Rama. The Brahmans amongst them said “O noble prince hear our many prayers, retrace your way, hear our entreaties, just in case not to heed us is your choice, we consider following you is the right path” Even as pleas and counter pleas went on, the sight of the banks of river Tamasa seemed to halt the progress of the journey to the forest and promptly Sumantra freed the wearied steeds from the chariot and allowed them to feed in the grassy meadows on the fringes of the river Tamasa. Sumantra with his hands groomed every steed with care, he bathed and dried their limbs, led them to drink and feed at the grassy mead.

First night in the exile: At the delightful bank of river Tamasa, Sri Rama first looked at Sita, then at Lakshmana and spoke as follows; “When the first shades of night descend, the tenants of the wood creep or fly to their lair, den or nest. My thoughts are on the royal town of Ayodhya where my parents mourn for us, I am oppressed with the fear that my father and mother should not have their eyes blinded with ceaseless tears. The duteous Bharata will shower sweet comfort, care, and love on them engaging with pleasant words; hence I do not anymore express grief or sorrow for them; with you following me to the forest, I need not worry on the security or the safety of Sita. Tonight I will only take water though various kinds of roots and fruits are available; I will sleep on the bed of grass so kindly laid by you.” Next he addressed Sumantra next, “be most diligent and tend your horses with due care.” When the sun had set, each one of them paid the holy evening rite, after the night descended; Sri Rama with his consort lay on the leafy bed carefully laid by the charioteer with the assistance of Lakshmana. When Sumitra’s darling saw the couple sleeping, he conversed with the charioteer all night on the various pleasant virtues of Sri Rama. At dawn the following morning the hero spoke to his wonderful brother, “The citizens of Ayodhya who followed us into exile are asleep reclining at the roots of the trees; giving up all cares of their homes, they are resolute in their intent to see us return to Ayodhya; it appears to me that they would even give up their lives but not their resolve. While they are thus in sound sleep, Lakshmana let us mount the chariot and speed to the woods. These fond citizens of Ayodhya shall no more roam and sleep beneath the bush and trees; a prince should with gentle care heal the self inflicted wounds that his people undergo, he should never let his subjects bear the burden he is forced to accept.” After that Sri Rama urged the charioteer minister, “Pray yoke to the car the steeds I like to speed to the woods without delay,” Sumantra with utmost speed got the steeds yoked to the chariot and Sri Rama Lakshmana and Sita took their seats within. Once more Sri Rama spoke to the charioteer; “proceed for a while northwards, after that hasten back swiftly to the forests leaving a trail of misleading path for the citizens, Sumantra at the behest of his chief did as he was instructed; thus began the path to the hermit haunted woods.

Grieving citizens return to Ayodhya: The next morning the people accompanying Sri Rama, to their dismay could not find any trace of Sri Rama, Lakshmana, Sita and the charioteer Sumantra, each one of the sages and other residents of Ayodhya distracted by woe, cursed the beguiling influence their sleep had on them; they also expressed grief on Sri Rama deserting all of them, and flee to some forsaken place. How can the pride of the Ikshvaku who is like a father to us, discard us so peremptorily, dispossessed of our hero, what purpose can existence be good for us, let us light up the numerous big logs that will be the funeral pile and we all enter the fire together. How can we say after entering the city of Ayodhya we followed Sri Rama on his way, and conveyed him to the woods? Complaining thus, their sad hearts wrung with grief and tossing their aged arms high they followed the path shown by the traces of the chariot carrying the princes clad in the garb of hermits. After a distance, the path traversed by the chariot ceased, and deep despair overwhelmed their hearts, they exclaimed, “Fate stops the way, now all is over”. Taking the road by which they came, they reached Ayodhya with melancholic hearts and blank faces; depressed in spirits shedding tears in abundance; these befuddled men did not find Ayodhya charming any more. They saw their vast and abundant in riches dwellings with restlessness, neither the presence of kinsmen nor the strangers could dispel their glum.

Poignant distress in Ayodhya: Those who went forth with Sri Rama returned to Ayodhya with sorrow in their hearts; copious tears in torrents drenched their faces, all joy fled from their place of abode, the traders did not flaunt their merchandise, people collectively were droopy, each householder abstained from cooking; the young mother could scarcely bring a smile on her lips even when blessed with a child for the first time. In every house a wailing woman assailed her returning lord with severe taunts, “The only virtuous person in this world is Lakshmana, who with Sita has followed Sri Rama to the woods; in the woodlands each pond, stream, and lake, shall yearn to please the scion of Kakutstha; when the holy trio bathe and use them, the flood then become sacred for all times to come. Out of respect for the divine hero mountains will release cascades of sparkling water, the trees will crown themselves with bunches of assorted flowers, and fruits will be borne out of season. Thus there is no cause for fear or disgrace to be where Sri Rama is, let us once more follow the heroic prince, he is the support to the world, the friend, the lord, our guard, our guide; and Sita will provide us all our wants. Why should we linger in Ayodhya; where all is sad, dark and is now a dismal town, afflicted by Kaikeyi’s treacherous sin and whose hands are oppressive, godless, lord less, and powerless. Ayodhya cursed by the guilt of Kaikeyi will meet a swift destruction and doubtless ruins will soon follow this distinguished kingdom.” At dusk shades of midnight gloom came down enveloping the mournful town, which no longer was the town of feast, music, song, dance, glee and merriment.

Rivers Vedasruthi, Gomati and Syandika: His mind echoing the command of his father; Sri Rama journeyed a long distance all night; at daybreak he worshipped the blissful morning twilight and surveyed the countryside and the hamlets he sped past. En-route he saw the carefully tilled villages flourish; from the clustered dwellings he heard the peasants say; “It is disgusting that our king Dasaratha has to be influenced by infatuation; acquiesce to that disgusting vile, malicious, sinful queen Kaikeyi; with no regard to the virtues; bent on malice, banished this tender hearted, sinless, darling of the peoples heart, Sri Rama, into exile.” The Lord of the sphere pursued his journey through Kosala; at first they crossed the auspicious river Vedasruti, moving south he sped past the place tenanted by the sage Agastya. After several hours of speeding and traversing a long distance he crossed the river Gomati whose floods merge with the Ganges and the banks of river Gomati was frequented with cows. Having crossed the Gomati River, and covering a long distance Sri Rama reached the banks of the river Syandaki whose watercourse carried swans and resounded with the screams of peacocks. Sri Rama showed his Videhan bride Sita, the populous land that was given in the days of yore by Manu to the Ikshvaku king. Sri Rama now spoke to the charioteer Sumantra of the unique pleasure of hunting in the woodland bordering the river Sarayu; speeding on without rest or halt Sri Rama spoke of wide-ranging subjects.

Meeting with Guha: Having passed through the region of Kosala, Sri Rama next turned his back to Ayodhya and made an emotional farewell to the dear city of Ayodhya protected by the Kakutsa race. His face wet with tears he spoke, “O pre-eminent city, farewell to you, as well as all the deities that shelter you and dwell in you; I shall be united with you again after implementing the promise made by my father to Kaikeyi.” With a miserable; forlorn appearance he addressed the doleful multitude, “Respect and compassion has been shown to me by you, do not lengthen the agony, now return with joy and win success in every tasks that your hands undertake,” so saying Sri Rama swiftly departed while people mourned his fate, disconsolate they wept aloud, thereafter each departed his own way. He rapidly went past the territory of Kosala, the land of abundant grains, countless kines, abounding in lovely gardens and blessed with riches; its dense populace lived free from fear and distress. In the confines of the kingdom of Kosala, flow the three pathed heavenly bright and cold waters of the River Ganga; free from duckweeds, the tide of this river rushes with many eddies. The River Ganga is frequented by Rishis, celestial nymphs, Gandharvas, Gods, demons, nagas, the distinctive aspect of River Ganga which needs mention is “One can bathe in this river Ganga after taking one’s meals or without taking meals, by day as well as by night there is no restriction about time once you reach River Ganga the foremost of all rivers.” On the banks of the River Ganga the great car warrior Sri Rama said to Sumantra, “Here on the banks of this river we rest for the day, not far from the river stands this very large Ingudi tree containing fresh leaves and abundant flowers. From here I can gaze at the queen of rivers whose holy stream has the utmost praise.” Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita descended the chariot and Sumantra unyoked the weary steeds. On coming to know of Sri Rama’s arrival, the king of that territory, Guha of Nishada lineage accompanied by his senior ministers and relations sought to meet the prince. Distressed at the sight of Sri Rama, Guha closely embraced Sri Rama, bowed to his lotus feet and made it known to him, his dear guest that the reigns of his kingdom are now passed on to Sri Rama. Guha also placed before his guest dainty fare and rich in every savor. Sri Rama replied to Guha “I have set out on path to austerities; hence I am bound to refuse nay decline all your offerings. All I need is grass, corn and water to feed these good steeds which are supremely dear to my father.” Guha obliged the steeds with a sumptuous fare; Sri Rama dressed as an anchorite after finishing the evening rites, took water for food, and rested there for the night with his Maithili spouse. Guha with his bow sat near Lakshmana and the charioteer Sumantra, kept conversing all night, while maintaining a faithful watch on Dasaratha’s glorious heir, who had till that moment never ever before glimpsed troubles.

Guha’s request to Lakshmana: As Lakshmana driven by a genuine love kept guard of Sri Rama and Sita, distressed Guha at the sight of the royal couple, spoke in these words to Lakshmana, ‘dear brother you deserve all comforts you are never used to hardship, here is a homely bed prepared for you, O prince, repose on this pleasant bed and recover from your fatigue. I speak truthfully, there is none who is dearer to me than Sri Rama, while Raghu’s son and Sita are asleep, I will with my men stand guard, there is nothing in this land which is strange or unknown to me, I can effectively repel any armed incursion, you can trust my capability to guard all of you. Lakshmana replied, “I have full faith in your prowess, tonight I can rest fearlessly. So long as Sri Rama is lying on the ground with Sita, I cannot sleep nor do I care for my life, look at the all conquering chief Sri Rama, in battle his might is match for Gods and demons. My elder brother the foremost son of my father was secured by prayers, devotion, and after various sacrificial undertakings; now he is exiled; surely my father cannot outlast this night and queen Kausalya with my mother queen Sumitra will follow him. Now that his dear son exiled, soon the widowed state will mourn for her lord (Dasaratha), the cries of anguish are still on, each mourner has wept his load. When my father is gone, once that unfortunate moment of the demise of my father has arrived those who will consecrate our deceased father in the course of the funeral rites are fortunate. In case he survives, let us hope when this period of exile has expired we may safely return to Ayodhya along with Sri Rama and see our high souled father once more. There is nothing left for these people to live for; the king fondly cherished to crown Sri Rama the prince regent of Ayodhya but now it is too late!, too late! ” As Lakshmana was thus lamenting for long, the darkness of the night gave way to dawn. King Guha’s heart tormented by common woes gave way for his tears to flow and he looked sad as a wounded snake.

Traversing Ganga (Jhahnavi is also the name of the river Ganges): The night had yielded to day, the notes uttered by cuckoo and peacock birds were heard, Sri Rama said to Lakshmana, let us direct our attention to cross the fast flowing Jhahnavi. Hearing this Guha directed his minister to make arrangements for the departure of the holy trio. In answer to the summons of king Guha, a sturdy, beautiful, swift moving boat with rudders, oars and men was ready on the shores. Guha respectfully informed Sri Rama of the boat waiting on the shores of the Ganges, ready for them to embark; Guha also sought further directions from the lord of men. Sri Rama thanked king Guha for his gracious care said; “My desires have been accomplished, please have everything placed in the boat quickly.” Armed with their bows, swords, and quivers bound to their waists, they sought the journey through Ganges. With raised palms Sumantra asked the Lord of men, ‘what remains for me to do now?’ The hero touching the charioteer with his right hand said, “You were our guide until now, please return to Ayodhya and attend on the king with watchful care; from now on we proceed to the woods on foot, we are releasing the steeds and the chariot.” Grieving Sumantra beseeched Sri Rama not to abandon him and leave him to serve the impervious, impious, vile, Kaikeyi, instead allow him to be the part of Sri Rama’s entourage. He submitted to Sri Rama as follows, ‘In all the worlds there is not one who can match you in your tenderness and forthrightness; if even to such a person adversity in the form of exile were to befall I can see destiny cannot be set aside by any man living on earth. In the pursuit of this dire vow, for sure you gain exalted fate, abandoned and repelled by you we are ruined,’ thus cried the anguished charioteer shedding plentiful tears. Sri Rama requested Sumantra to shed all emotions’ he told him the words to this effect, “O faithful friend of the Ikshvaku line, my aged father is unused to wild grief; please execute this instruction of mine sincerely, whatever be the orders of the monarch be it the commands to please his queen Kaikeyi the same shall be obeyed without demur and tending the welfare of my aged father is your duty. Tell the emperor that Lakshmana, Sita, and I do not grieve our altered fate; fourteen years will quickly fly, my lord on the appointed hour, Lakshmana, the Videhan princess, Sita and I will see you again. Please convey to the king to set Bharata quickly on the Royal throne; when the emperor’s fond hands are laced round Bharata, bitter pain caused by my absence will cease to torment the aged king. Tell Bharata, whatever attention the king receives; extend the same kindness to all the queens, more so to my mother who is senior to all. If you (Bharata) accept the office of prince regent in obedience to the will of our father who has chosen you to fill the throne you will earn bliss both in this world and in the other.” The weeping charioteer spoke again praying passionately, “Forgive my language, impelled by my strong love towards you I speak wildly, my love for you is strong but my tongue is weak; I cannot return without you to that mournful town of Ayodhya in an empty chariot and face the despondent shriek of woe which will be hundred folds more than it was when they saw you leaving for the woods. I cannot frame a false tale; and tell Kausalya, all is well, I took your son away and left him with your brother (Sri Rama’s maternal uncle) do not weep for Sri Rama. Without you Sri Rama, I cannot, no, I cannot go to Ayodhya, please let me share your banishment while I stay with you in the forests I will obey without a sigh every order of yours. With me by your side in the forest, I will check all the dangers that interfere in your austere vows. I can never go anywhere near the town of Ayodhya without you besides me in the chariot, let me live the fourteen years in banishment with you, do not leave me, kindly lord do not leave me, I am your devoted, tender, just and true servant. If my prayers are not to move you, deprived of you I will enter the flames now and here.” Sri Rama’s response to Sumantra, “Well my heart knows how attached and true you are, I ask you to return to Ayodhya without me in the chariot; only then queen Kaikeyi will be content with proof of my deportation and would no more doubt the virtuous king’s faithfulness to the sworn oath. You for monarch’s sake and my sake drive to Ayodhya and convey the truth of my proceeding to the woods”. Now turning to Guha, Sri Rama said, “Hence forth I must lead a life of strict recluse, he sought and got through Guha, juice from the fig tree, for applying to his long hairs; for the purpose of matted hair locks on the head, and the two princes presented the look of hermit saints. Sri Rama asked Guha to diligently attend to all sovereign tasks which are supremely hard to observe and uphold. Having formally bade adieu to Guha, Sri Rama directed his view to the barque that was to waft them over the tempestuous Ganga and uttered to Lakshmana, extend gentle aid to Sita, place her by your side, which was wholly obeyed by his younger brother, Sri Rama next took his place on board and urged the vessel to depart. On their way through the spotless flood, the trio dipped their hands in the holy flood, offered their prayers and bade adieu to Guha and tearful Sumantra. Blemish less Sita with reverent palms, worshipped the Goddess, Ganga, "May you protect Dasaratha’s son, may he fulfill his royal father’s will. At the end of fourteen years of banishment, help us come home again to Ayodhya, I will on that blissful day pay my offerings to you the holy queen of rivers, I bend my head in obeisance to you, I will share my offering and thanks to you on every hallowed spot and every holy shrine that stands on your banks. I seek from you, I am praying for the sake of my husband the blameless Sri Rama of strong arms, I plead that I re-enter Ayodhya after the period of exile in the wild along with Lakshmana and Sri Rama; I will offer to you fair queen my hymns of praise.” When the trio reached the southern bank of the river, Sri Rama, brother Lakshmana, and spouse Sita leapt to the land. Sumitra’s son Lakshmana was followed by Sita, Sri Rama was behind them, and together they proceeded to the forest. Sri Rama spoke to Lakshmana, “Be prepared for the protection of Sita in the uninhabited as well as in the inhabited place, therefore you lead the way, let Sita follow you, I shall follow you, shielding Sita and yourself from behind, in the woodland area protection must be vouchsafed by us to one another.” Maithili a stranger to woe, toil, and grief, this day her feet tread the rough, rocky, wilds, with no gardens and no cultivated land, thus the royal brothers moved away from the sight of Sumantra and Guha. Having crossed the great river Ganga the two brothers and Sita reached the blissful land of Vatsa the land between Ganga and Yamuna rivers. There they quickly sought the foot of the tree for taking rest during that night, after completing their supper comprising roots, fruits and the like

Sri Rama’s agony: On the first night after the evening rituals were duly concluded, Sri Rama spoke the following words to Lakshmana “This is the first night after we parted with the charioteer and strayed away from our country, henceforth when others sleep we have to keep a careful vigil over Sita, we must be free of lassitude, her dear life depends on us, let us lie down on this improvised bed, dear Lakshmana do not grieve for this. This night our celebrated father will sadly have had a wretched sleep and Kaikeyi, the mistress of her wish, who fiercely yearns for the empire for her Bharata may in her greed destroy our lord and the king. What can our feeble old father whose soul is enslaved by love and is obedient to Kaikeyi’s call do, this makes me think now that his father is superannuated Bharata with his wife, will enjoy the throne and blissfully maintain his rule over the domain of Kosala free of challenge to his claim. What will the senile helpless king who has fallen into the clutches of the vile queen do, I think gratification of senses is of greater momentary precedence than religious merit and earthly gain; thus making me surmise that whoever lets love conquer his soul and neglects wealth and righteousness will meet Dasaratha’s fate. Dear Lakshmana; Kaikeyi having got her son enthroned; her husband dead, me exiled, she may carried away by the frenzy of her success even slay Kausalya because of her immoral hate to her; and Sumitra too, solely for the reason she is devoted to me. I beseech you to speed to Ayodhya and be a guardian to Sumitra and Kausalya, strong hate may persuade base, vile Kaikeyi to perpetrate many unrighteous deeds, for my part I will proceed to Dandaka forest with Sita. My thoughts are ever with my unfortunate mother, even though in righteous wrath my single arm can protect Ayodhya and the planet earth, I do not want to sin by drifting away from the path of righteous; I recognize the prowess of the hero is worth nothing, it is for this very reason I preferred the forest life today and refused power, pelf, and kingly state.” Lakshmana replied to his brother Sri Rama, “neither Sita nor myself can live even for one moment without you for we would be like fish out of water” Having attentively heard the above said submission of Lakshmana, wailing Sri Rama his face drenched in tears, resolved to spend all the years of his exile with Lakshmana.

Secluded habitation of Sage Bharadwaja: Having spent the night under the big tree, the following morning when the sun appeared on the horizon the heroes waded through the dense forest and reached the spot where the swift waters of Yamuna glide and blend with the Ganga’s holy tide. They wandered through many a pleasant spot and rejoiced at everything they gazed around. When the day was about to end Sri Rama said to Lakshmana, “I see some flames near Prayag (Allahabad) there is the fragrant smoke, from this I conclude some saint resides there.” As the dusk was about to set in they approached sage Bharadwaja’s hermitage near the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers when they heard the deafening roar of the clashing deluge of the coalescing rivers. As they approached the precincts of the hermitage they scared the beasts and the birds dwelling in the vicinity by their very form, halting at a distance they conveyed through some pupil of the holy sage their longing to see him. Duly permitted by the high souled sage Sri Rama raised his suppliant hands came closer to sage Bharadwaja, declared his name, his race, and why they sought the distant land. He said, “Saint we are the children of emperor Dasaratha, I am called Rama, here is Lakshmana my younger brother and this is my wife Sita the daughter of Janaka. I am banished into Dandaka woods by my father; Sita and Lakshmana of their own will chose to be with me during the period of my exile. We are bound by a vow, we now lead the life of a hermit, we roam the woods; we are in search of a holy grove, for the period of our exile; we will feed on fruits, roots, and berries. The omniscient sage heard them, offered them delicacies of every description prepared from wild roots, and fruits, arranged accommodation for the day, spoke to them in words like these; “Kakutsa’s royal son I have been expecting your arrival for a while, I heard of your needless exile, without a sin you are banished, you dwell here in this beautiful and holy place and be happy here for the period of your exile.” Sri Rama responded in gracious words: “My lord this tranquil spot is proximate to the city and the kingdom of Ayodhya, once the people in the vicinity know I am near, they will seek us and will intrude on your solitude, hence this place will not suit me; Pray tell me O! Gracious lord some quiet home that lies, not here where I may dwell with my Videhan dame and Lakshmana and enjoy the bliss.” The hermit earnestly heard Sri Rama’s request and responded, “If this is your resolve you will find ten leagues from this place a holy mountain where many saints lived and won the reward for their penances. That place known by the name of Chitrakoot abounds in thickets, the place is infested with langurs, (large monkeys) apes and bears, in that beautiful place your period of exile will fly fast; as long as a man dwells in that hill his soul is pure and the mind is free of evil thoughts.” The celebrated sage entertained his beloved guests delighting them with all desired objects; Sri Rama was talking with the sage on various issues; that night exhausted Sri Rama, Sita and brother Lakshmana happily relaxed in Bharadwaja’s grove. The following day after duly taking leave of the sage, they set out seeking the famed mountain peak adorned with clusters of trees of every description. Bharadwaja spoke to the grateful visitors “Chitrakoot is an auspicious hill, there are herds of elephant and deer, frequented by Kinnaras, and Nagas, the place is made fascinating by the cries of peacock, lapwings, and koils, I deem full well this place will suit you and you can stay there as a hermit during the period of your exile.

En-route to Chitrakoot: The peerless Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita spent the night in quiet repose in the grove of the sage; in the morning they saluted with reverence the sage; perceiving the guests proceed in the direction of the Chitrakoot mountains, the glorious saint responded with doting looks, performed the religious ritual ensuring their safe passage; he spoke to them on the path to Chitrakoot in words like these; “Lords of men first go to where Ganga and Yamuna (also known by the name Kalindi the daughter of the Sun) meet. When you reach the shore prepare a raft and cross the river Kalindi. On the farther bank of the river you will see a well known tree by the name Syama (meaning dark green) where countless birds make this tree their abode, Sita you offer prayers to this holy tree. After walking a small distance from this tree you will find the delightful path to Chitrakoot, this path I have stridden many times.” Thus having received guidance to Chitrakoot Sri Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita conveyed their respectful gratitude to the sage and urged the Saint to turn to his hermitage. After the saint left Sri Rama told Lakshmana “It is the result of our past meritorious deeds that made holy hermit shower on us his unreserved love.” Speaking to each other as abovementioned, placing Sita at the head the two brothers walked towards the shore of the river Kalindi. They made a mighty raft with a comfortable seat therein for Sita; they helped Sita ascend the raft first, after loading their stock inside this raft, the two sons of Dasaratha began to cautiously row the raft. When the raft left the land and was halfway into the river Kalindi, Sita offered prayers to the floods of the river Yamuna, “Goddess Kalindi whose floods I traverse now, pray grant that my lord may keep his vow and see again that town where the children of Ikshvaku reign.” Having come to the other bank they quickly made to the Shyama (dark green) tree, the spouse of Sri Rama offered prayers in reverent tones, with suppliant hands held together and walking around the tree in clock-wise direction thus: “O! Mighty tree allow my husband to complete his vow, I plead upon returning to Ayodhya we meet Sumitra and Kausalya.” After the offer of suppliant prayers with Lakshmana at the head and Sita in the middle and Sri Rama at the rear they rejoiced to gaze at that time the river distinguished with charming sands and water rendered noisy by swans and cranes. Thus they wandered with delight and found by the riverside a pleasant spot where all was smooth and fair around; this place served as their lodging for the night.

Humble dwelling at Chitrakoot: The following morning in response to Sri Rama’s gentle wakeup call, Lakshmana cast aside the fatigue, sleep and rest. The royal brothers and Sita, proceeded to the watercourse had their bath in the cold waters of Yamuna, after completing their morning rites took the path to Chitrakoot. Journeying on foot they then reached the delightful and soul captivating lovely mountain, Chitrakoot, adorned with many trees and creepers, with plentiful roots fruits and flowers, there were ponderous honeycombs hanging from every tree. The fascinating cries of the wild cock, loud sweet songs of the birds; several elephants roam free here in the glorious hill of the Chitrakoot. Sri Rama spoke to Lakshmana, “This delightful mountain is adorned with every kind trees and creepers with plenteous fruits offers us a pleasant life, swayed by the joy of the moment and without thought of the future, we would stay here.” On seeing the ancient anchoret Valmiki, they greeted the sage with suppliant hands and spoke to him thus; “This Mountain with every variety of trees and creepers, with blossoming flowers, roots and fruits will offer us a pleasant fare, here we would like to stay.” The great saint gladly entertained his guests bade them to sit and rest there, Sri Rama spoke to Lakshmana, “O gentle brother, my mind is bent on dwelling here, with the available logs of wood erect a shelter here.” Lakshmana obeyed and soon skillfully got a cottage firmly built, walled with wood, charming to look at, thatched and roofed with leaves of many trees. Their new built home ready, after bath in the holy stream, with unemotional voice they said the verses, prayers that are required as per the lore and made the offerings that remove the stain of sin, to please the Gods and soon they entered their shelter that was fenced from wind and rain. Now resting on that lovely hill surrounded by the birds and deer the happy princes forgot the woe, the longing, fear, gloom, exile and all.

Sumantra’s return to Ayodhya: Having talked for a long time with miserable Sumantra on the virtues of Sri Rama; after Sri Rama reached the southern bank of Ganga, disconsolate Guha left for his home. After the meeting of Sri Rama with the sage Bharadwaja; as well as the journey of the Ayodhyan princes to Chitrakoot hills was witnessed by the spies of Guha and reported to Sumantra, the charioteer yoked the noble steeds to the car and sped to the city of Ayodhya. Casting his eyes on the village and city as he drove over the road, he reached the city of Ayodhya at dusk on the third day. Ayodhya presented a picture of a city drowned in sorrow, a silent town forsaken, oppressed and burnt by grief, afflicted by the exile of Sri Rama. Even as the chariot approached the city of Ayodhya; thousands of men ran to the chariot from every side and cried “where is Rama?” Sumantra responded in melancholic tone “In this very chariot I left the duteous prince at the shores of Ganga, on his persuasion, I am in Ayodhya now” Kinsmen of Ayodhya wild with woe, wailed ,wept, mourned for Rama’s exile and Sumantra for his part approached King Dasaratha’s towering abode. Inside the palace the moaning royal ladies were heard talking in gentle tone “What will charioteer reply to Queen Kausalya’s eager wail. Hard is a life distressed with woe, with her sinless son banished and she lives with this load. Indeed it is not so easy to end one’s life and it is also hard to preserve life against such odds.” Hearing all these and stirred by unfeigned grief all around, swiftly the charioteer met the sovereign in his bright palace and faithfully conveyed the message from Sri Rama. The heart breaking message the monarch heard in silence overcome with emotions he fell fainting to the ground, all his senses astray he lay on the ground. Kausalya with the assistance of Sumitra raised her dismayed Lord from the ground and spoke thus “O! Blessed king of high fate why do you not reply to the messenger of Sri Rama who has accomplished a difficult task? Great injustice is done by you, are you shame stricken for your conduct, bestow comfort and help to us in this time of despair, Kaikeyi is not standing near, have no fear, seek news of Sri Rama,” so wailing Kausalya’s voice was drowned in sobs and the poor king was deeply oppressed with pain. Hearing the melancholic howl rose in the gynaceum men both aged and young and all women flocked around weeping

Sumantra delivers Sri Rama’s message: When the emperor recovered from his swoon he summoned the charioteer to hear the news of Sri Rama. Like a newly caught great elephant, the mind of Dasaratha was overwhelmed with distress; his deportment was miserable, the sobbing king requested the faithful Sumantra in a weak voice; “Where will be the dwelling of my Sri Rama now, what will he eat, what is his bed like, being brought up in kind solicitude, not exposed to suffering how have the two princes and Sita taken the life in the wooded area that is frequented by carnivorous animals and infested with reptiles and snakes, how did they after getting down from the chariot proceed to the woodland on foot? O Sumantra you are accomplished of purpose; you have seen my two sons entering deep into the woods; what words did Sri Rama articulate and what words did Lakshmana speak? O Sumantra what was his bed, what was his seat, my life depends on the reply you give.” Sumantra urged thus by the Lord of men to speak; spoke as follows ‘Sri Rama ever resolved to tread in the path of duty urged me to first convey his salutations to you and convey his greetings to his mothers too, he continued, “The feet of my father deserves to be greeted with bent head, should be saluted by you in my name. O Charioteer, convey to my mother to pursue her austere vows truly and faithfully, never err on the path to duty, bestow on our Lord the same honor that we bestow to Gods; casting aside pride; praise and respect Kaikeyi, and let young Bharata be flattered by you as the king. To Bharata, Sri Rama conveys, as prince regent let care be shown to our father for he still holds the throne, be submissive to his (father’s) will, hold my mother who is ever shedding tears for me in the same esteem as your mother,” tears ran down Sri Rama’s cheek when he spoke of his mother. Lakshmana spoke with ire and said ‘My father the slave to Kaikeyi’s designs, he is the person responsible for our woe, ask him to specify the sin or the offence for which Sri Rama was banished, is it folly, greed or whatever the king has worked up a grievous offense. The king has his eyes blinded that refuses to see the injustice in his actions and mandated Rama’s exile, his actions are induced by greed, guilt, and folly, the king is no more my father.’ Sita never having seen adversity before, seemed oblivious of everything and on seeing me about to depart broke into tears gazed at the royal chariot and me,’ so concluded Sumantra the charioteer.

Sumantra describes to the distressed Dasaratha: At the behest of the emperor Sumantra repeated the sad narrative, “I saw the two princes with their hair lock wound in votive coils, on their person they bound coats of bark; and proceed to the remote shore of the river Ganga. I saw Lakshmana observing the pathway; thus walking ahead of Rama and Sita, I continued to gaze in that direction till they were out of my sight. Forced by my hero, Sri Rama to return homeward, I raised my hands in reverence, deeply stung to the core by grief all day I stayed with Guha in the earnest hope that soon Sri Rama would send a message from the forests that he will return to Ayodhya. When that did not happen I began my homeward return, I could scarcely move my horses; they stood to the ground shedding tears of grief. Great monarch your whole empire sympathized with Sri Rama’s affliction; on my way back every image I saw was melancholic, the water in the rivers, lakes, and ponds got dried up, the leaves in the wood and groves withered, aquatic flowers and those growing on land lost their fragrance and the charm, the fruits were not luscious. When I entered Ayodhya, none greeted me; not perceiving Sri Rama in the chariot people present on the road had their face covered in tears, O great monarch to me Ayodhya appears depressing after the banishment of Sri Rama. The entire living creation were overwhelmed with grief born out of separation from Sri Rama, the grief for Rama’s banishment in Ayodhya was mirror image of the Queen Kausalya’s grief.” Bawling emperor responded, “Mesmerized by Kaikeyi of sinful birth and mission, I took no counsels from the sages, nor from citizens nor friends; indeed my actions were rash, bereft of sense I was a slave of woman’s influence call it will of the fate, it has laid low the house of Raghu or is it the will of the providence. O charioteer if I ever have done one act to satisfy you, take me to Rama; let me have one look at Rama’s face; I cannot live without my Rama any longer. I am dying of wretchedness, it is hard to pass this sea of sorrow O Sri Rama, O Sri Lakshmana, O you dear Sita, you are steadfast in your vow, beloved ones you cannot know that I am now dying of misery. The boon I gave to the wretched Kaikeyi; kindled by the hunch back Manthara lead to Sri Rama’s banishment.” Thus glorious Dasaratha wailed, his spirits failed, his senses fled and he sank again to the ground.

Words of solace to Kausalya: Repeatedly quivering and lying prostrate on the ground Queen Kausalya as though seized by some goblin’s touch; spoke to Sumantra “Separated by the three exiles I am unable to live even for an hour kindly take me to the Dandaka forest else I may sink into the realm of Yama.” Sumantra skilled in persuasive communication spoke in a choked voice, to cheer Queen Kausalya “Cast away your grief, dread, despair, Sri Rama will reside in the forests under the unfailing care of Lakshmana. Sita whether she lives in the wild or in the cozy comforts of the palace, has place only for Rama in her thoughts, as such you need neither grieve nor despair nor dread her stay in the woods. Sita’s features show no signs of concern, or despair, and well adorned she lives in the forests free from doubts and terror. I remember Sita was not angry at all but only in one unguarded moment she did rebuke Kaikeyi and I cannot recall her words.” Her demeanor is unsoiled by the blazing sun nor the rough winds nor dangers nor the toil in the forests and her face shines as ever with elegance; she walks in the forests with a sportive grace. If in the forests she sees a lion or if she is close to a tiger or an elephant she does not panic; she is fully aware that she is secure in the protective arms of Rama. You no longer consider their fate as unfortunate nor is yours nor is the Kosala king’s fate. In the forests they are in joyful spirits, they are swayed by the happiness of the present moment, without thoughts of the future; they wander in the woods in pursuit of their highest aim, which is to uphold their father’s reputation.” Kausalya after hearing Sumantra let go a shrill cry “Ah my Rama!! My son! O! Scion of Raghu!!”

Kausalya’s distress: With her dear son Rama now a rambler in the woods, distressed Kausalya spoke to the king the words of these effects; “How will your sons and Sita, being young, fair and delicate; brought up in the princely comforts, endure the distress in the wild? Brought up in the bliss of princely state, how they will bear the heat and the cold when wandering in the woods? They loved the music and song now they have the ravenous voice of lion to fear. My heart is indeed of impenetrable solidity; else it would have been shattered to smithereens even as those whom I love to see now are condemned to lead wretched lives by your ruthless deed. Even if my Rama after his return from exile re-seeks his kingdom Bharata will not consent to yield the empire and the wealth. At funeral feasts some mourners feed the kith and kin the solemn meal; having duly fed them all if some other Brahmans are called, the good and the wise Brahmans detest, scorn and spurn the delayed call. Like highly enlightened great Brahmans who do not consent to partake of what is left after others have finished their meals, Sri Rama too likewise will disdain a kingship enjoyed by a younger brother, for the sacred post is not used twice. O monarch if you had known your duty and referred to the good laws found in the scriptures you would never have driven your brave and duteous son to the woods. A woman, a wife has only three supports, first the husband, which I do not have now, second the son, you have banished my son into exile, third my friends the citizens, they too are ruined by you. O king I am hapless quite ruined and destroyed by you; only your son Bharata and your wife Kaikeyi will feel greatly delighted.” Dasaratha distressed to hear this harsh condemnation of Kausalya said “O! Rama,” he again got plunged in grief; he also intensely recollected his past transgression responsible for his present misfortune.

Kausalya’s words of wisdom: Tormented monarch heard Kausalya’s stern speech, upset with misery monarch fell fainting and when he regained consciousness, his thoughts were confused. Heaving a mournful groan he saw Kausalya standing by his side and his pondering soul brought to his mind the dreadful deed he had in the past committed on a poor and harmless devotee, even though he (Dasaratha) was guiltless of wrong intent. He reflected on the sinful deed perpetrated by him, while hitting a mark screened from his sight, the arrow released in the direction of a sound struck an innocent son of a hermit. Disconcerted from the thought of that sinful deed and through grief born of separation from his Sri Rama as well, he spoke with suppliant hands “Kausalya I seek your grace, you are gentle, good, and a loving queen even to your adversaries, you have pursued the path of righteousness in your duty, never launch at me distressed sorrow stirred bitter words.” Kausalya, her eyes brimming with tears gently clasped his hands with hers and said in a faltering voice said, “I fall at your feet and ask you to forgive me, for all the rash words I spoke to you, I do not deserve to be pardoned by you, I court punishment at your hands for the wrong done to you by me. I know you to be veracious, due to anguish caused by the separation from my Sri Rama I spoke unsympathetic words. I cannot be called your wife, if you were to seek my pardon. I know my duties well and being your wife I do not cherish perpetual strife with my wise husband. A blow that has descended from the hands of an enemy can be sustained, a sudden grief however minute may it be cannot be endured, grief destroys patience, obliterates wisdom, it ruptures the stoutest soul, it demolishes everything, there is no enemy like grief. Fifth long night has begun each night is reckoned as equal in length to a year, all my thoughts are on Sri Rama and the separation from him swells my grief.” Thus spoke Kausalya whose words of wisdom served to soothe the monarch’s ailing heart he went into a snooze.

The son of the hermit: Soon the monarch awoke, troubled by the oppressing grief, his mind filled with anxious thoughts on his Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita, he sadly reflected on the crime committed by him when he as an archer, prided himself as one who could skillfully shoot the target by hearing the sound, with unfailing accuracy. Dasaratha spoke to dismal Kausalya; “Whatever conduct that men pursue be it good or evil they are sure to reap the rewards of the righteous or impious deeds, be the actions of the man in lighter moments, faulty actions or the action attracting merit. O genial queen, he while undertaking actions, who fails to examine the relative importance as well as the rewards or consequences accruing from them is a fool; indeed he who embarks on action alone unmindful of consequences, is sure to regret when the action bears fruits. O Kausalya in the prime of my youth before I was married to you, I proud of my skills as an archer unwittingly worked up the crime and that action has brought misery to my soul now. My actions are comparable to that of the child seizing and drinking the deadly poison filled in a cup, the consequence of that action needs no elaboration. On one monsoon day the desire of hunting within me strengthened by the joyous ambiance; I set out, and saw the frogs, deer, peacock and birds all rejoice the torrential rain, and me in my wild volition, in pursuit of elephant, tiger, buffalo to kill I drove to the bank of the river Sarayu. In the cover of darkness I heard the sound of a pitcher filled slowly with water; the sound similar to the sound of a trumpeting elephant, I, thought it was an elephant and I longed to see that wild animal dead. I took out from my quiver an effulgent arrow; discharged the same in the direction of the sound with unfailing accuracy the dart hit the target. In the section where I hurled my sharp arrow there emerged the wail of a forest dweller; I realized in the morning my arrow had pierced a hermit. I heard the hermit crying “Ah why me, I a poor and harmless devotee, I came by night to fill a jar with water, I have wronged none, I am a guiltless son of an ascetic who resides in the forest and feeds on the forest produce and my father has not offended any one. Why am I sought to be slain, what booty can the murderer gain from my murder. This impious crime of a wretched person will see me dead alas I mourn for my mother and father; when I perish there is none to care the helpless aged pair. Pierced by this same dart my mother father and me die, who is it with this lawless mind, whose hand is it that caused this crime?” My heart was pierced by sadness by such touching lamentation stirred by love of duty, I quickly ran to the hermit, saw him lying on the shores of the river Sarayu, writhing in pain. Confounded by my dreadful action I stood there amazed, he with the blood shot eyes spoke to me sternly thus ‘Struck by your mortal arrow I will die, O! King how have I wronged you? This forest is my home and I had come to collect water in this jar for my aged parents who are enfeebled by age, are blind, are in pain, are helpless, and their thirst I sought to quench. I am now killed by this shaft of yours; my parents their lips parched with thirst will wait in anticipation and this hope will end in blank despair, however if you are mournful of your fatal action, hastily go to my parents and truthfully relate the happenings, lest my father will consume you with his ire. Surely my austere vows has not borne fruit, my father does not know about myself mortally struck and lying on the ground, even if he knew; he can do nothing as he is enfeebled in age and is incapable of protecting me. First you extract the arrow from my wound, this act will kill me, then hastily proceed on the path I now show you, and seek pardon from the sage, my aged father before he pronounces the curse on you.’ I stood there in fear helpless and sorely grieved for if I pull out the shaft the hermit’s son will sure die. My predicament the hermit’s son perceived, and as he was nearing death he said to me; ‘My fortitude has conquered pain and my senses remain undisturbed O! king you have not killed by your actions a Brahman for I am born of a Vaisya father and a Sudra mother;’ these words he could scarcely complete and from his bleeding wound I removed the shaft and the hermit’s son of rich penance, tortured by the shafts, twisting his helpless body around, before dying he eyed my face and died.”

With the thought of Sri Rama in his mind Dasaratha dies: Continuing to narrate the egregious sin perpetrated through ignorance the pious minded Dasaratha detailed further how the great seer was undeservedly killed; himself being utterly confounded: “Perplexed in thoughts I pondered on how or what kindly deeds needs to be done to soothe the misfortune arising from this calamitous action. I took the pitcher from the ground and filled water therein and then proceeded on the path shown by the hermit. As I approached the intended abode, I saw feeble and aged parents, frail and blind, sitting side by side, fond in hope, talking of their dear son bringing them the water; alas this hope of theirs was destroyed by my unconscious act. Hearing my footsteps the sage spoke thus; ‘Dear son why was the delay, since you have not come for long, your mother is weeping, bring the water quickly, if your mother or me have caused pain to you, please discard that thought from your mind, our senses are focused on you, please remember, you are the friend to your friendless parents, why are you cold and silent to us, please speak.’ Overcoming the overwhelming fear, the dread and the misery in my mind, I decided to let the aged hermit know his son’s sad fate. I said, ‘High minded saint I am not your child, I am a warrior named Dasaratha, I have to endure the burden of a grievous sorrow, induced by my own action which is despised by all good men. I came to the shore of river Sarayu, to kill an elephant, that comes to drink water there, and when I heard from the stream a sound of stirring water, I thought an elephant was near I aimed, I let go my arrow; to my horror I realized my dart has struck an hermit who lay there gasping for breath. Unable to bear the intense pain inflicted by the deadly dart he quickly bade me to approach you with this news, At the instance of the ascetic himself; I hurriedly removed the shaft from his person, the seer your son proceeded heavenwards, lamenting to his last breath on the sad plight of his aged parents. Having inadvertently done this act I am in front of you seeking your pardon,’ I told the venerable saint with suppliant hands. The dignified saint then spoke thus, ‘O king if you had not personally come down and sought pardon for your unplanned action, the cause of this neglectful guilt, my curse would have made your head burst in to a thousand pieces. O! Monarch since this wicked deed is done by you through unawareness and not intentionally, you survive, now take us to the spot where my child lies dead, and we may see our son for the last time.’ Alone I escorted the anguished parents to the spot where the lifeless body of the hermit’s son was lying. Raising his voice on seeing his dead son the saint cried in agony, ‘my son, the duteous child, why are you lying dead on the cold ground, why are you angry with us, why no embrace today, O! My child, why have you no gentle soothing words for us today. You were feeding your helpless parents till today darling son please stay on till we are alive do not depart to the realms of Yama today. Tomorrow me your father, your mother and you can all depart together, I now implore Yama, the king of justice, to restore my son to me and rid my soul from fear, my son is untouched by stain and was slain by sinful hand of the monarch. You will reach the home of virtuous spirits and he who slaughtered you will be doomed to dire fate and bitter pain of lasting misery and a very heavy calamity.’ Thus piteously pleaded the aged saint many a times, finally the aged parents poured the funeral water to the spirit of their departed son. The sage renewed his speech to me, ‘slay me O king, your darts have done to death my only son, kill me as well this very day , no agony will be felt by me if I die this very day. Since this son of mine was killed by you, I pronounce a curse on you; that hour shall come when the same bitter pangs of woe and heaviness that afflicts me now, you shall suffer, you shall mourn for your son and die.’ The duteous son of the sage immediately ascended to the heaven in the aerial car, in an ethereal form with Indra near him, he quickly spoke to his aged parents of a glorious home in the realms above, as the reward bestowed on him for filial care and his privileged parents shall soon be the partakers of that home with him. The funeral rites over in deep grief the saint pronounced on me as his priestly fees, a curse that in the distant time I shall suffer for the crime and be crushed by woes and I too shall die mourning for my son” Emperor Dasaratha further continued “ Having pronounced this detestable curse on me the aged couple cast themselves on the pyre and went heavenwards” Dasaratha continued further “Queen Kausalya that deed of mine has now borne fruit, my senses fade, Ah if Sri Rama touches me then my soul will not leave my body. I have been unjust and mean to Sri Rama, yet he spoke no reproaches nor expressed his ire, in the thoughts of my banished son, my memory quits my troubled mind, there is not more grievous woe than when the angels of death summon my soul, speed away with it, and before that, I am not able to behold my true bold and virtuous Sri Rama, helpless, I am now, not soothed and charmed by my Sri Rama in whom I took delight, he has now vanished from my sight” with gentle thoughts on queen Kausalya and Sumitra and calling Kaikeyi a cruel dame, his bitter foe, moaning and sighing and grieving for his darling son Sri Rama, Dasaratha died in his sleep.

Women lament: At dawn the following day, the minstrels, bards, clad in their gay attire, the singers skilled in musical instruments, and the heralds flocked to the chamber of the king, eulogized their king with their voices and clapping of their hands. Adhering to the rules of observance stipulated for that hour of the day, each one of them gathered at the palace of the monarch, bringing with them their offerings like, toilet gear, water, paste of sandalwood, and waited for the king to rise for the day. When the king neither acknowledged the benediction, nor woke nor spoke, the attendants inside the monarch’s bedroom were roused with alarm, doubt, trepidation; and impelled by a sense of duty, they decided to wake the monarch by touch. When the king did not respond in words, nor was there any movement on his body they trembled with dread, and feared his life had ceased, in short the gloomy truth that the monarch died descended on them. Kausalya and Sumitra weeping for their sons lay in slumber, soon the troubling thoughts that the king was no more yielded to a loud wail and shrieks of bitter cry. Hearing the loud scream Kausalya and Sumitra came quickly to the bedside of Emperor Dasaratha, they saw and touched his lifeless frame and let go one huge cry, “O! Husband,” “Ah! My lord,” in anguish they fell to the ground. With the king dead, Queen Kausalya in acute mental distress, lying prostrate on the ground in pain, her limbs, her hair covered with dust, she was faded, and jaded. Then all the wives of the monarch led by Queen Kaikeyi, consumed by overwhelming grief, weeping fell on the ground. The cry of grief from the royal crowd was so loud, the shriek from the palace stimulated fear, anxiety, wild surmise, echoing with the cries of grief, sorrowing friends mourning for their chief, all dejected, and pale with deep distress., The Royal Palace which once was a depiction of the pinnacle of happiness; suddenly the bliss disappeared and the palace now presented a perplexed appearance, reduced to a portrait of miserable aspect.

Dasaratha Embalmed: Kausalya weighed down by the load of varied sorrows, gazed at her deceased spouse, laid his head on her lap, looking at Kaikeyi with tearful eyes she said, “O, wicked dame, you are triumphant, enjoy the reign which is now free of worry nor is there any cause for annoyance. In the pursuit of your sole aim, my lord the king is no more and my son Sri Rama is banished, your mind owes no allegiance to duty, you are eager to gratify your greed, and heeding the impious counsel of the hump back, Manthara, you have even forsaken your husband and brought his death. I have no friend, no hope, nothing to cheer my life and I do not even wish to live for one more hour. Videhan monarch Janaka will feel greatly perturbed when he hears of Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana’s fate; they will pine for their daughters adverse fate and will surely die under the double weight of this sorrow. In the gloomy nights alarmed Sita will hear the ravenous cries of the beasts and birds in the nights with nervousness and will cling to the arms of my duteous son Sri Rama, and my son is not aware that I am widowed and ruined. I am devoted to my husband, embracing this body of my deceased husband I shall enter the funeral fire and meet my ordained end today.” Thus while the weeping devoted and dedicated Kausalya lay clasping the lifeless body of her husband, the chamberlain respectfully separated her from her deceased husband (monarch) and began embalming Dasaratha’s body. The ministers instructed by Vasistha and other family priests performed all the duties connected with the conservation of the body; they would not perform the king’s funeral without a son of the king. The other women of Dasaratha were heard lamenting “Mighty king already we are bereft of Sri Rama who would firmly cling to the truth, why do you leave us your consorts, to live with Kaikeyi, the queen we fear and hate.” The woe tormented king already proceeded heavenwards, leaving behind his lovely wives the city of Ayodhya wore a dim, dark look

Need for a king: Coming together at dawn after a night of thorough distress ended; the Brahman sages with Vasistha as their head; the others being Jabali, Markandeya, Maudgalya, Vamadeva, Kasyapa, Katyayana and Gautama, who enjoyed great renown met along with the other ministers and made separate speeches, the core of which was the need to find a king, arising due to the sad demise of Dasaratha. To summarize, the outcome of their debate was as follows; not only is the emperor deceased his two sons Sri Rama and Lakshmana have taken up their abode in the forests, and the other two princes Bharata and Shatrugna are away in the palace of their maternal grandfather at Rajagriha (also called Girivraja) the capital of the Kekaya kingdom. The fact that with the demise of Emperor Dasaratha, the joys of the happier days have ceased in the land of the kingless Ayodhya; hence one of the sons of Dasaratha should be crowned the king, without a ruler the kingdom of Kosala may meet with ruin. In the Kingless realm there is havoc, famine, devastation, and a below par monsoon. In a kingless territory, no law is respected, the wealth is easily lost, the fearless and atheists overlook the bounds of righteousness. Instead, when there is a king who is truthful and righteous, in him, rest the hope, the wellbeing and security of the people in the empire, verily their life depends on him. In effect the king is the father, mother, friend, protector, the guide who clearly demarcates the good and the evil. All the assembled peers of state highlighted the perils of a kingless state and authorized Vasistha to crown some scion of Ikshvaku race as the monarch in the place of the deceased Dasaratha.

The messengers: Responding to the speech and prayers of the congregation Sage Vasistha replied, “We all know Bharata in the company of Shatrugna is now living in Rajagriha (Girivraja) the capital of Bharata’s maternal grandfather’ empire, let envoys be sent to fetch the royal brothers.” the assembly gave unreserved approval. Hearing their approval, sage spoke as follows, “Come along O Siddhartha, Nandana, Ashoka, Vijaya, and Jayanta, hear me, do only what is said. Promptly proceed to the kingdom of Kekaya to fetch Bharata and Shatrugna, speak only what I say, the priests and peers of Ayodhya send their greetings to you and ask you to come to your home without delay,” you the messengers are not to speak there of Sri Rama’s exile nor the sad demise of the emperor. Take with you fine silk vestures, gems and precious gifts to Bharat and the king of Kekaya”. Impelled by the urgency of the task the envoys proceeded swiftly to the splendid Girivraja to essentially comply with the twin tasks of absolutely obeying the orders of the splendid sages and also to safeguard the royal race.

Bharata’s nightmare dream: The night the messengers entered the city, Bharata had an unpleasant dream at an hour when the night was nearing the end, in other words in the very early hours of the day; that dream was soul chilling and foretold him of dire events to follow. (It is a belief that a dream seen at the close of night is believed to come true on a majority of occasions what is not said is in all instances)The dream filled Bharata’s heart with horror, there were the visible signs of anguish on his face, he thought of imminent danger to the life of either his aged father, or Lakshmana, or Sri Rama or to himself, he was a picture of misery, was distraught and depressed. Bharata’s close friends tried their utmost in many ways to expel his sorrow and raise his spirits, like playing cheering music, they indulged in lively dances, narrating pleasant tales, jokes and jest, yet Bharata sat silent, he was tyrannized by a vague sorrow. In reply to the inquiry of his friend, Bharata spoke “Last night I had a dream that chills me, a dream that strikes in me a sudden fear and terror and dims my vision. In my dream I saw my father falling from a cliff into a swampy lake, his body soiled, unkempt hair; he seemed to wallow in this miry lake, drinking with his bare hands sesame oil and was laughing aloud. I saw my father, the king, attired in sable sleeveless garments, seated in an ass drawn chariot speeding southwards, also in the chariot was a female monster dreadful of appearance, was seen to laugh and jeer at the king, my father. When an ass drawn chariot is seen to bear away a man, in dreams, be sure it his funeral pyre and this makes my spirit low and weak. Within me; I am engulfed with a chilling dread, though I blame myself for my aimless fears, these troubled thoughts terrorize my soul and in my heart I see the strange vision of the king”

Arrival of the envoys; Bharata’s departure to Ayodhya: While Bharata was so speaking to his friends, the travel worn envoys from the kingdom of Ayodhya entered the city of Girivraja; on gaining the audience of the king of Kekaya, Bharata’s maternal grandfather, they as a mark of respect felt the emperor’s feet. After touching the feet of the large eyed prince as a mark of respect to their prospective king; Bharata, they addressed the following words to him, “The royal priest sage Vasistha and others convey to you, through us their greetings and tell you all is well and you are asked to come to your father’s house without any waste of time as there is business with you which cannot brook delay. They send these expensive gifts to the king your maternal grandfather; to your maternal uncle, and to you as well.” The joyful Bharata received the gifts and in his turn asked the envoys, “Is the old king, Dasaratha my father well, are Sri Rama and Lakshmana free from illness; how is the courteous Kausalya known for graceful deeds, how healthy is Sumitra the mother of Lakshmana and Shatrugna? Has my mother, most prone to rage, selfish at heart and seeks to gain more by conceit, sent message or command to me, how is she in health?” The envoys replied, ‘All those whose welfare you had just asked are all secure and well and all the smiles, riches and fortune are yours, get ready quickly, to return to Ayodhya.’ Bharata said to the envoys, ‘I will get ready to return to Ayodhya in one hour’ thereafter he proceeded to take leave of his grandfather who replied to Bharata, “Go to Ayodhya, dear Bharata your mother is blessed to have a child like you, convey to your father, the royal priest and all others, my greetings.” The king also bestowed on Bharata huge gifts, which Bharata because of the disquiet in his mind caused by the dream, and also of his hurry to depart did not welcome this large gift. Bharata, possessed of great determination, with Shatrugna, the scourge of the foes besides him departed to the kingdom of Ayodhya.

Bharata returns to Ayodhya: The messengers sent to call Bharata from his maternal grandfather’s abode went to Rajagrha by a shorter yet difficult route through the woodland regions. Bharata accompanied by an army drove through a broader yet a longer route; hence it took him a week to reach Ayodhya and he had to pass through places which the messengers did not come across in their journey. From the royal town of Rajagrha Bharata with quickened pace moved to Ayodhya; after seven days he saw with his happy eyes the view of Ayodhya founded by king (Vaivaswata) Manu. He said to the charioteer; “O! Charioteer, this glorious city of uncontaminated groves and gardens presents to my eyes today a lifeless pile of clay; Ayodhya today presents an appearance of joyless, desolate and dreary city. Why has the merry cry of birds and beasts that spoke aloud their joys ceased? Why, are the drum and tabour mute and why is the music of the lute still? Perceiving these and several other unwelcome indications in Ayodhya, my soul is weighed down with wild affright, and surely without any cause my soul will not be crushed with the overwhelming dread.” Highly dejected, sick at heart, his every sense being confused; his mind under the sway of terror, he quickly entered the city of Ayodhya through the Vaijayanta gate, his heart still distracted he bowed low and bade farewell to the crowd that was following him. Bharata again asked the charioteer “Why have you brought me here? My usual courage fails me, an horrendous fear plagues my heart, I have heard that these are sure signs of the death of the monarch, my father. I see in everyone related to me by blood their beauty and pride has vanished, they sit joyless on the ground, no morning rites are offered, the common area in front of the house is not swept, and dust is spread over. I see all holy shrines are neglected, all shops are not busy as it used to be till recently, all men and women I observe have gloomy eyes filled with tears.” With an oppressed mind filled with dread and despair Bharata rode into the palace, observing things offensive to the mind, he became cheerless; he entered his father’s apartments with his head drooping.

Bharata’s interrogation: Not finding his father in his apartments, within the palace, Bharata known to consistently adhere to the righteous path, then proceeded to his mother’s bower, which now seemed hideous; as a mark of reverence he grasped her feet. Kaikeyi fondly drew Bharata close to her and endearingly inquired of the welfare of her father and her brother Yudhajit. Bharata answered all the enquiries of his mother in the words like these “My grandfather is well and my uncle is free from all trouble, I was gifted sumptuously, these items of gift are on the way being carried in another car, I was urged by my father’s envoy to reach home at good speed I have come here in absolute haste, I am not fatigued by the travel that lasted seven days, but the steeds that carried me are indeed exhausted. I find all is murky here, I beseech you to tell me where is my father, the monarch, this dazzling couch of yours is now untenanted by the king, by chance is the king in queen Kausalya’s dwelling?” so enquired Bharata. Crazy Queen Kaikeyi swayed by lust presented the most unwelcome, terrible and unpleasant news as the glad tiding in words like these; “Your devout and famed father, of lofty thoughts has met the same fate as is the destined end of all the created beings.” The sad words pierced the untainted, righteous and pious Bharata, distressed he fell prostrate on the ground on hearing his father’s fate and let go loud wails in sincere grief. Bharata still in un-consoled grief told his mother; “I am ruined, this couch bereft of the king; shows no signs of radiance;” he wailed. His mother vainly tried to calm his misery, she said words like these, “Get up O king, good men like you do not wail like this; my son your father has lived a full life you should not mourn for such a soul.” Bitter Bharata spoke again, “When I left my grandfathers palace I hoped in vain my father would crown Sri Rama to the throne, I miss the face of my dear father, tell me what sickness took my father away, I miss the gentle touch of my father’s soft hands, pray quickly tell the news to Sri Rama, I am here, he is now my hope and my refuge pray mother tell me what was my father’s last advice /words I crave to hear those words. Fortunate are Sri Rama and others by whom my father was cremated.” Kaikeyi then spoke the mournful truth, the monarch’s last words “Blessed are the people who shall view Sri Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita return to Ayodhya unharmed and unscathed; saying so the monarch went to the other world,” on hearing this Bharata plunged into greater despair and questioned his mother “Where is the ever virtuous, noble and Kausalya’s pride, Sri Rama, where is the fair Sita, where is the brave Lakshmana?” Pressed for an answer queen Kaikeyi gave her son the mournful news which she felt would please her son, “Sri Rama clad in hermit robes has been banished to the Dandaka forests and Sita and Lakshmana share Sri Rama’s exile.” Bharata’s soul was stirred with dread on hearing this and he began “Why was Sri Rama sent to the Dandaka forest, what was his guilt, why was he sent to the Dandaka’s wild, what was the crime?” Thus questioned Kaikeyi began to tell her deeds and crafty plans prompted by her feminine frivolous nature, “When I heard the king was to crown Sri Rama the prince regent on the throne of Ayodhya, I asked for the sovereignty of Ayodhya in your favor and banishment of Sri Rama and the king consented. With Sri Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana in exile, your father was sorely troubled and in grief over the separation from his son the highly illustrious emperor met his end. My dutiful son now cast your grief away, be fortified with manly courage arise and take the reigns of the kingdom, carefully planned and wrought by me for you. My darling son the fear and grief are not forever, with Vasistha’s aid and guidance; perform the obsequies and then have the mandate to install yourself as the lord of this kingdom,” thus concluded Kaikeyi.

Kaikeyi rebuked: Bharata overcome with grief and ill at ease to hear his brothers’ adverse fate and of his father’s death from the lips of his mother responded furiously, “Your senseless crime killed my high souled father, the truthful monarch, and exiled my virtuous brother Sri Rama and have devastated the royal house of the Ikshvaku. You the wedded queen of the monarch heaped misery upon him; he died consumed by the flames of grief and as a result of you exiling the virtuous Sri Rama, has caused tears to flow from the sad eyes of Kausalya and Sumitra. Kausalya the senior queen always bestowed on you love and ever treated you as a loving sister, and you in pursuit of your impious sin, by your uncontrolled greed, chased that son of Kausalya, Sri Rama, to the forest and you have no remorse nor do you understand the deep love I have within me for Sri Rama who is verily my second father. The holy king my father, the ever righteous, relied on Sri Rama’s power and might, and with both of them away, you have by your sinful actions wrought on me lasting shame. Your subversive wild delirium, caused obstruction to the eldest in the line from being anointed the prince regent. The eldest son alone should inherit the entire property of his father; others should depend on him, as they did on their father heretofore. I will now go to the forest and bring my brother Sri Rama, who is free of any blemish, the people’s darling, whose glory burns like a beacon, have him installed the king and with a contended mind I will serve him like a slave.”

Bharata’s frenzied sorrow: The raging Bharata continued to speak to his mother; “Cruel wicked sinner, ambitious and evil souled your actions are not in accordance with morality, are devoid of justice, your act has resulted in the death of the sinless king, you have chased the duteous Sri Rama to the forests, your awesome wicked actions makes me look shameless before the citizens and denizens, you are my desperate foe and you the murderess of my father will never in this life see me crowned. You ought not to be the daughter of the sage, the mild and righteous king Asvapati, you are a fiend and you have overthrown my father’s house and through your infatuation you have driven joy away and also brought disgrace to this family. O woman of depraved resolve, doomed to perdition, after your death you will attain the realms of infernal regions. You have made the pure, gentle, affectionate Queen Kausalya who always takes a long range view of things, to endure the most unwelcome and cruel separation from her most true and dear child Sri Rama. In the hoary past, the God loved cow Surabhi, shed copious tears, when she saw two of her sons faint due to exhaustion induced by hard toil. The tears shed by Surabhi fell on the lord of gods, Indra, who promptly enquired the reasons for grief and Surabhi replied to Indra “I mourn for the sad plight of my sons.” If Surabhi the mother of several thousand children sheds tears for her sons, then think of the woe felt by Kausalya who has parted company of her only son Sri Rama. This hideous crime inflicted on me by you I cannot bear, I will now go to the Dandaka forest bring back Sri Rama restore to him the kingdom and I will in hermits attire retire to the forests;” said Bharata hissing and panting like a maimed serpent, he thereafter fell unconscious to the ground.

Bharata renounces: After a long while, regaining his consciousness with tearful eyes seething with anger Bharata reproaching his mother, crying aloud declared, “ I have no lure for the kingdom, I do not obey my mother’s dictates on this matter, I was with Shatrugna in the distant kingdom of the Kekaya; I knew nothing of Dasaratha’s planned consecration of Sri Rama, I know nothing of my brother Sri Rama’s exile, nor anything connected with that of Sita and Lakshmana proceeding to the woods till this moment.” Distressed Kausalya recognizing the voice of Bharata she said to Sumitra “Bharata the son of wicked minded Kaikeyi is here, I rate Bharata as a youth with foresight and I would love to see him,” saying so she proceeded with Sumitra to Bharata’s place. At that very moment Bharata too along with Shatrugna hurriedly proceeded to meet Kausalya, they saw the sad royal dame in shattering unease, clad in uncared attire, on seeing them, she fell senseless on the ground; they hugged her. The noble Kausalya too hugged the weeping pair and said to Bharata, “The reigns of the kingdom which your mother Kaikeyi has ruthlessly acquired for you without any foe, is now yours. Kaikeyi has banished my guiltless and illustrious son Sri Rama to the forests. I will with Sumitra in tow proceed to the dismal woods. You are now the owner of this kingdom along with its wealth of every kind.” Kausalya’s words wrung blameless Bharata’s heart and he fell prostrate on Kausalya’s feet and let go a loud wail and responded thus: “O noble dame, why do you reproach me, I know nothing, I am free of blame, you well know my love to the chief of the Raghu’s race Sri Rama, and let any or several of the curses which attends on those who indulge in forbidden acts be mine, if I had any share in banishing Sri Rama. Let that sin which accrues to the one who has indulged in any of these forbidden acts fall on me, it is to be borne in mind that Bharata does not intend these curses for any particular person, he merely wishes to prove his own innocence by invoking them on his own head if he had any share in banishing Sri Rama. Bharata lists the following acts as forbidden;

1) one who obeys the despicable lord; one who offends the Sun with an abhorred act;

2) one who strikes with his feet a sleeping cow

3) a master who steals the servant of his resources

4) sin attached to those bearing enmity to a king who protects his subjects as his own offspring

5) sin of a king who fails to protect the people even after collecting the land revenues.

6) sin attaching to those who withhold sacrificial fee after promising it to the priests officiating at the sacrifices;

7) sin attaching to a man who violates the code of warfare.

8) sin of partaking sweet delicacies without offering in the first instance to the Gods, Lords and manes

9) showing disrespect to elders and bearing malice to friends.

10) sin of revealing the fault of a person confessed in confidence by another

11) sin of being ungrateful and shameless

12) sin of partaking a flavorful sweet alone in house without offering the same to the dependants

13) sin of not performing sacred duties

14) sin attaching to the killing the ruler, woman, infant, aged man or forsaking dependants

15) betray the suppliants who complain

16) he who deceives the poor and the weak who look to him and seek comfort

17) he who makes the hopeful hope in vain

These and other melancholic words of utter sincerity spoken by mighty Bharata unburdened the huge load of anguish from Kausalya’s heart, and evoked from her the words, “Your awful sworn words aggravates the present agony of mine, you are choking my breath while you solemnly plead your innocence, your mind is endowed with excellences, you are true to your promises and you will attain the realms of the virtuous, dear child”. All of Bharata’s senses were distraught, his heart grew faint and sick, and he continued to wail and lament all night

Dasaratha’s funeral: Vasistha respected for his wisdom told Bharata; “Enough of your grief, it is now time to perform the funeral of the deceased king.” Bharata bade his friends to prepare for the final rites for the king. When his body was taken out of the vessel in which he lay immersed in oil Dasaratha appeared pale-faced he looked as though he were fast asleep; he was placed on the ground and later placed on an exquisite bier well ornamented. Bharata went by the side of his father wept aloud and lamented, “ O king, Sri Rama who loves only the right has fled to the forests, so too Lakshmana of great might, and if you too go away, now who will meet the needs of the people of Ayodhya and ensure the safety of their person and property. Bereft of you this kingdom is no more charming, it is gloomy and cheerless.” The holy sage Vasistha then said to the grieving Bharata “O mighty Bharata now coolly and unhesitatingly perform the funeral rites of the mighty monarch your father without any further delay.” Bharata distraught in mind sobbing and shedding tears, heard Sage Vasistha’s counsel with due attention urged everyone to make haste. The body of the deceased monarch was laid on the bier; the grieving servants now bore the body on their shoulders to the cremation ground. Flowers of gold and silver coins, pieces of cloth of every description were scattered on the road by the people who walked ahead of the king. The priests officiating at the obsequies laid the emperor who lost his consciousness in the middle of the pyre at the cremation ground; Bharata lit funeral pyre; the priests recited the holy texts. Attended by the guards the kings consorts went to the crematorium in the transports befitting their ranks, after offering water to the spirit of the deceased along with Bharata they conducted the obsequies on the banks of the river Sarayu as per scriptural ordinances.

Completion of all obsequies: Having offered water to the spirits of the deceased Dasaratha, Bharata; the consorts of the king, counselors and family priests spent the following ten days in agony, they slept on the ground and were always weeping. After the ten days elapsed, prince Bharata next performed the obsequies pertaining to the twelfth day, when on that day he gave much gold, gems, jewels, food grains, large herds of white goats and cows to the multitudes of the Brahmans who were present there to grace his father’s obsequies. On the thirteenth day which involved the collection of bones for their immersion in the holy Sarayu river, Bharata who was stupefied with sorrow, wept, sighed, distraught, was sobbing in his anguish, and he spoke; “O father you have deserted me, I am now friendless in my woes, mother Kausalya is helpless and uncomforted, as her only son Sri Rama is forced to dwell in the forests.” Bharata letting go a piteous moan fell prostrate on the ground. Shatrugna when he saw Bharata lay on the floor wailing, in a frenzied rage, shrieked aloud; “The source of this overflowing surge of woe is the dire and dark Manthara, and the predatory shark Kaikeyi, who sought and got the boons, which you gave and left for the other world; bereft of you we are in bitter grief, now we have no one to give us fond love and care, abandoned thus I will not, I cannot live in Ayodhya which was once ruled by the Ikshvaku; I will seek the woods for my dwelling,” thus lamenting sadly in wild despair, mad with misery, he too fell on the ground. The omniscient sage Vasistha, who knew the lore, raised weeping Bharata and said thus “twelve days have passed since your father is cremated; without further delay, consign the ashes to the river. LIFE AND DEATH, JOY AND SORROW, GAIN AND LOSS are the three constant pairs of opposites that hem all mortal creatures and none can shun the companionship of the aforesaid constant pairs of opposite, grieve no more.” Sumantra too with his wise counsel soothed the soul of Shatrugna and urged them to expedite the other rites, the royal pair of Shatrugna and Bharata performed the rites that were ordained on them.

Ire manifests on Manthara: Having completed the funeral rites following the demise of his father, Shatrugna, gave vent to his thoughts to Bharata who was longing to proceed to the forest to meet his brother Sri Rama; “Strange indeed; Sri Rama who is the source of strength to all living beings is banished from the kingdom by a woman’s duplicity. There was this mighty Lakshmana who could not prevent in time the sin committed by the monarch who was captivated by a woman’s will.” Even as the dreaded Shatrugna was thus speaking to Bharata, Manthara, the wicked pest, the cause of all the ills now afflicting Ayodhya, well attired and well ornamented looking like a female monkey presented herself at the front door, she was firmly grasped by the sentry, presented before Shatrugna saying, ‘here is the wench, because of her your father has ascended the heavens and noble Sri Rama is rambling in the woods, deal with her as you like,’ and the dreaded Shatrugna was stirred with fury at the sight of vile sinner, he thrashed her. Hearing the hump back’s deep shrieks and seeing Shatrugna in his violent rage other women fled to the compassionate and virtuous Kausalya for refuge; queen Kaikeyi fled seeking the aid of Bharata. The hunch back Manthara was remorselessly dragged on the ground, thrashed and the badly battered jewels on her body that lay scattered away from her body lent decoration to the floor. Seeing Shatrugna in rage Bharata restrained him with words as these, “Restrain your anger, never slay a woman, I would like to slay Kaikeyi, but the duteous Sri Rama would never forgive the impious matricide nor the slaughter of this hump back maid; disapproving our action he would never speak to us.” Manthara the terror stricken trembling wretch crept to the feet of Kaikeyi, who saw her weep, gasp, quiver, dazed, and Kaikeyi assuaged her with gentle words of pity.

Authoritative order from Bharata: At dawn on the fourteenth day, the peers of the state addressed Bharata the following words which were in consonance with righteousness, “O illustrious prince, Sri Rama, the eldest and Lakshmana of extra-ordinary might are in the distant forest and your revered father, the monarch who served this kingdom for long has now ascended the heavens, presently this kingdom is kingless, therefore before this state is assailed by foes, Bharata be our guardian, accept as your own the reins of your own hereditary throne. O illustrious prince there is justification for your assuming the reins of this monarchy because your elder brother has been exiled under the command of your father and you have been nominated by your father as his successor; you are not to be blamed for superseding the claims of your brother. We have here ready with us the consecration materials and request you to let the priests install you as the monarch today.” Bharata went clockwise around the consecration requisites as a mark of respect and spoke to the assembly; “the rules mandate Sri Rama, the eldest son of the king, shall be the ruler of this land, you the wise men should not injudiciously advise me wrongly. I shall now proceed to the woods to spend five years and nine (in all fourteen years) there in the wild woods. Please assemble a mighty and exceptionally powerful army and place all the requisites for consecration ceremony in a car and I will bring Sri Rama here duly crowned. I will not let my mother’s cherished aim or her greed to succeed, I will roam in the pathless wild forests, Sri Rama will reign the kingdom of Ayodhya.” Thus the royal Bharata ordained the kingdom for Sri Rama’s reign and the audience comprising the sages, the counselors, ministers, as well as others gave their concurrence; Bharata’s noble eyes were filled with tears of joy. The counselors, ministers, sages and others rejoiced at Bharata’s proposal, their grief vanished; they instructed deft workmen skilled in the business to prepare the passage way for the journey to the woodland area.

The Royal road ready: Bharata very clear in his mind that the kingdom of Ayodhya will be ruled only by the eldest son of the king, mandated swift arrangements be initiated for the return from the woods and coronation Sri Rama. Without any loss of time multitudes of deft workmen, accomplished craftsmen, and others capable in their trade, leveled every dale, pit, hole and all to have a clear pathway, all arrangements were made to provide every care en route The imperial passage raised carefully by skilful workmen looked like the God’s heavenly pathway, was fair to view, with ample space and level ground and streets that were running side by side and the prince’s royal road adorned by art of skilled workmen was dazzling and immaculate as well.

Vasistha summons Bharata (The conclave): The following day before dawn, the heralds, the bards in loud auspicious voices, praised Bharata, by means of affectionate invocation of encomia; others smote the drum, with gold sticks giving way to thunderous noise to notify the dawn. Though all these were intended to please Bharata, instead it evoked melancholic pangs in him, he promptly called for a halt to all this and said: “Make no mistake I am not the king”. Thereafter Bharata turning to Shatrugna said in bitter grief, in feral lament, “The evil deeds of Kaikeyi resulted in the death of my father, in the present situation Sri Rama who was to be our lord is expelled by my mother and he now roams in a distant forest and this kingdom which was graced by our high souled father, who was an embodiment of piety is now drifting like a rudderless boat in water, I have these and other miseries piled on me due to the untruthful and wayward actions of my mother,” the other women seeing Bharata distressed wept aloud. In the meantime Sage Vasistha accompanied by host of his pupils well versed in Vedas, entered the Royal hall, that was till recently was graced by Dasaratha, instructed the messengers to tell all Brahmans, warriors, ministers, Shatrugna, and the illustrious prince Bharata, Yudhajit alias Vijaya (not Bharata’s uncle), Sumantra and all truthful and virtuous others who are friendly to Bharata, to attend and dispose urgent business. All the aforesaid invitees responded promptly to Sage Vasistha’s summons, and soon the royal hall was engulfed in tumultuous and rapturous acclaim as Bharata was seen coming to council chamber.

Bharata rejects Vasistha’s counsel: The astute Bharata saw the nobles in their multitudes throng the assembly, the erudite Sage Vasistha in solemn and soft accents gave his counsel to Bharata: “Your father, the king has left heavenwards, your eldest brother the faithful Sri Rama to uphold your father’s plighted word, proceeded to the distant forests. This prosperous realm free from any annoyance is truly yours dear Bharata, be anointed the king and ascend the throne.” Overcome with a storm of grief, Bharata responded expressing disapproval: “Can I one born to Dasaratha, be unaware that this realm and me belong to Sri Rama. Sri Rama is the eldest born prince, full of virtues, is the true inheritor of this realm once ruled by Dasaratha. If I were to ascend the throne, a sin wrought on me by my mother, and my sacrilege will blot the sheen of the glorious Ikshvaku race. I will approach Sri Rama, the most exceptional of Raghu’s race, whose influence/command heaven, hell, and earth obey. For my part I shall try every means to bring him back forcibly and crown him the king; if I fail in my persuasive power; and if I could not bring back my noble Sri Rama, then I too will dwell in the forests and share this banishment of his with Lakshmana. I have given orders to make a clear road, and I will lead the army to the dwelling of Sri Rama and meet him in the forests for this purpose; hence mission to the woods alone finds my support.” Possessed by fraternal love and firm resolve Bharata instructed the charioteer minister Sumantra to give orders to the army to march with speed to the forests. Inspired with joy wise charioteer gave the orders to the army as preferred by Bharata; to march to the forests and bring back Sri Rama wandering in the forests to Ayodhya. Also Sumantra was asked to get a chariot fit for Bharata and Vasistha to proceed to the forests to enable Bharata make the supplication to Sri Rama to take over the reigns of the kingdom. Bharata was firm in his resolve to lead Sri Rama home again; he intended to undertake the journey to the woodland area; to persuade his righteous brother, by arguing with him in a logical manner to leave the dreary Dandaka woods and return to Ayodhya. Obedient to Sumantra’s call there was prompt, total and eager response from the addressees to proceed to the forests and bring Sri Rama back to Ayodhya.

The journey commenced: At day break Bharata eager to look on Sri Rama’s face mounted on an exceptional chariot and commenced the expedition to bring Sri Rama back. The priests and the lords in their bright chariots drove ahead of him and the long cavalcade comprised warriors, archers, all the four limbs of the army and they all marched gracefully in a huge array of rows and columns. Kaikeyi, Sumitra, the illustrious Kausalya joined in the march in their radiant cars and were wild with cheerfulness spurred by the very hope of Sri Rama coming back to Ayodhya. The common refrain from the multitudes was “when will our eyes behold that that bold, pure, true, hero so dark yet lustrous Sri Rama who keeps the world free from woe and harm.” The long train of the citizens who thus proceed to the forests comprised, the lapidaries, potters, weavers, jewelers, arms manufactures, physicians, workers and all whose hearts glowed in rapture even as they followed mighty Bharata on his mission to bring Sri Rama back to Ayodhya. When they reached the town of Shringavera on the banks of river Ganga they halted and reposed for the day. Bharata then went to the waters of Ganga to offer the holy water of the river Ganga, to the spirit of the deceased emperor Dasaratha for his happiness in his life after death, after that he (Bharata) was reflecting all the time how to bring the high souled Sri Rama back to Ayodhya.

Guha’s disgust: When Nishada king Guha saw the hugely mammoth Bharata’s army waving the pennon bearing the ensign the Ebony tree, he said to his followers: “Sure Bharata the son of Kaikeyi, with some evil thoughts has set out either to slay us or to chain us. Bharata of wicked will has set forth to slay Sri Rama, the banished prince of emperor Dasaratha. Bharata has embarked on such a course of action, in order to possess the entire fortune and treasures and usurp the reigns of the kingdom of Ayodhya. I am a friend and slave of Sri Rama, he is my ally and he is my lord, so let the youthful and the strong assemble in defensive throng along the river Ganga. If Bharata is free of any guilty thoughts against Sri Rama we will be his willing host and make his stay here a happy one and give him unhindered passage along the river.” The Nishada king then approached the noble charioteer Sumantra for an interview with Bharata. Sumantra conveyed to Bharata in the Guha’s request for a conversation with Bharata, “The aged prince Guha a firm ally of Sri Rama, knows all of Dandaka forests, has now come with a thousand kinsmen of his, seeking an interview with you. O! monarch Bharata, Guha can clearly tell where Sri Rama and Lakshmana now dwell in the Dandaka forests, hence it is right and fit for you to admit Guha in and have conversation with him.” When Bharata heard Sumantra’s counsel he exclaimed “Go quickly bring the aged Nishada king and his kinsmen before me”. Rejoicing the summons of Bharata, Guha said to the royal Bharata, “unexpected is your arrival to this territory a pleasure grove, we offer to you the fare that is available in the forests, namely the roots, fruits, the pulp of fruits, wild cereals of various kinds and hope you and your army will be well fed by us, you will stay here tonight. Entertained with varied amusement you too will be cheered with all we can bestow and you can leave tomorrow”.

Bharata, Guha conversation: Bharata spoke to Guha the words that blended reason with purpose, “You have accorded us a very royal reception, entertained and fed this vast army. You are the friend of Sri Rama, and I deeply revere Sri Rama. I find this place pathless and hard to traverse, please guide me on how I proceed to the calm shelter of Bharadwaja.” Guha raised his suppliant hands and replied to Bharata thus “O glorious prince, my servants know this terrain well, will exercise due care and guide you, I will journey along with you, guide you to the hermitage of Bharadwaja. The presence of this mighty and huge army, arouse dread in me, stimulates ill thoughts in me. I hope you are not going towards Sri Rama with any evil intent. This huge army of yours gives rise to apprehension in my mind.” To Guha who was ill at ease, untainted Bharata made this reply, “suspect me not to plot a foul crime, I truthfully proclaim that Sri Rama is my dearest elder brother, he is to me my dear father, I have come to the woods to lead my Sri Rama back and convince him to take over the reigns of Ayodhya”. Gratified with the reply of Bharata; Guha responded “O Bharata, you are blessed, you of your own free will, relinquish a kingdom, that has come unsought to you. I now conclude, surely you wish to bring back to Ayodhya your brother Sri Rama who has fallen into adversity. This action of yours will ensure lasting glory to you”. As Guha was thus talking to Bharata the night had set in. Guha with thoughtful care lodged Bharata’s army in the temporary shelters and Bharata sought his bed and spent the night in misery and bitter grief, his mind sorely distracted and heart mourning for Sri Rama’s fate, he could get no rest.

Guha’s proclamation: Guha who was well acquainted with the forest now told the peerless Bharata, the praiseworthy attitude of the high souled Lakshmana towards his eldest brother, Sri Rama thus, ‘I spoke to Lakshmana as he stayed awake all night to guard his brother and Sita, to sleep a little on the pleasant bed I made for him, in order to give rest to his body. I told him that all my men and I are inured to toils while you the duteous minded Lakshmana, you are nursed in comforts. Even though I assured him that I speak the truth; there is nothing in this woodland that is not known to me, and in the whole extensive world there is none dearer to me than the Raghu’s son, my men and myself are familiar with this terrain and will provide total security to Sri Rama and his Videhan spouse.’ Lakshmana persuasively replied; ‘see Guha how can my eyes close in slumber, when I see Sita and the royal Rama who bears the mark of fortune stamped on him; the emperor Dasaratha’s cherished son, couched on gathered grass whom neither the Gods nor the demons together can confront him in the field of battle;. The king will not live long, and the kingdom of Ayodhya will be orphaned, the sad king Dasaratha, Kausalya and my own mother queen Sumitra, all three of them will sink to death. Even if my mother survives in the expectation of return of Shatrugna; my father the emperor failing to install his Sri Rama on the throne will perish exclaiming the whole thing is past and gone; and conquered by misery the king will surely die and the queen Kausalya who bore Sri Rama too will perhaps join him, and my mother Queen Sumitra may survive with her hopes set on Shatrugna. Fate it is that has brought the mournful day, the day my father passes away and with his cherished son not even present for the funeral rites of his father May we return safe and well and again dwell in Ayodhya’. The following morning Sri Rama and Lakshmana bound their locks like hermits; with Sita, I sent them safely on the farther shore of the river Ganga”. Whilst Guha was thus detailing Bharata listened to this narrative with many a lamenting sigh.

Guha’s narrative: The speech of Guha sank deeply into the thoughtful heart of Bharata stirring tender pity. Bharata’s heart was filled with grief his thoughts mettled in despair, his bearing seemingly pale and bitterly afflicted, his trembling limbs getting stiff and cold, his woe too grievous to bear, he fell to the ground; leaving Guha stunned. Shatrugna seeing his woe distraught brother lie prostrate, senseless, on the ground; he embraced Bharata and wept aloud. Bharata’s mothers emaciated through fasting, looking miserable, bothered due to the separation from their husband and shedding tears now surrounded him, Kausalya much disquieted at heart caressing lifeless Bharata’s limbs enquired, “What torments you O my son, is your present plight the result of sudden pain or some swift disease, the lives of all of us depend only on you. I have nothing to live for, King Dasaratha has passed away, you are my only help, please tell us, perchance have you heard of some evil news of Lakshmana or Sri Rama or his spouse Sita”. Comforting Kausalya that nothing unwelcome about his dear ones was heard, weeping Bharata continued to urge Guha to narrate how Sri Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita spent the night before embarking on their onward journey. Replying to Bharata’s questioning Guha said “I offered in abundance the best of varied fruits and food of every description to my eminent guests, he accepted for my pleasure all that was offered to him by me and returned the same to me; Sri Rama humbly declined to accept saying dear friend I accept no gifts our Kshatriya law permits us only to bestow gifts/offerings to others and not accept gifts; obedient to the vows the three fasted that night, he accepted only the water brought by Lakshmana. Lakshmana too slaked his thirst with that water, later Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sumantra duly worshipped the evening twilight together. The tamer of foes, Lakshmana made a bed of heaps of sacred grass for his brother and sister-in-law, and he (Lakshmana) kept vigil all night; I too remained positioned there with my vigilant kinsmen with bows in our hands.” This is the foot of the Ingudi tree and these are the same blades of grass where Sri Rama and Sita reposed that night.”

The Ingudi Tree: Bharata heard attentively Guha’s abovementioned narrative, he then with his mothers reached the foot of the Ingudi tree and saw the unworthy bed made of heaps of grass, where Sri Rama lay with Sita that night, he said in exasperation, “If Sri Rama, Dasaratha’s inheritor, son of a imperial sire, leave the dear kingdom which is his right, lay on this cold and comfortless ground and slumbered here, this sudden fall from bliss to grief appears untrue, beyond credibility, my flustered senses seem to view this as fancies of a dream and truly there is no deity so great and no power in heaven can master the fate. If Sri Rama lay on the ground and slumbered there; and divine Sita acclaimed by all; lay on the earth beside her lord; how dear in her devoted eyes must be the bed where Sri Rama lies, she reposes by his side and forgets all her woes. Sadly for the unhappy guilty me, Sri Rama who is the friend of all, surrenders the kingdom, which is his in accordance with morality and justice; now he rests on the floor like this. Great joy and luck are Lakshmana’s who follows his noble brother in his hour of adversity; blessed is noble Sita who followed her spouse to the woods. My father has proceeded heavenwards and my heroic brother Sri Rama has been forced to dwell in the distant forests, and the kingdom of Ayodhya now is unguarded and defenseless and is in iniquitous despair, yet the heroic arm of Sri Rama protects the deserted kingdom of Ayodhya. From this hour, I, of doubtful fate, will sport matted hair, will eat fruits and roots, will spend the nights couched on the earth, I will serve Sri Rama’s term of banishment and during this period Shatrugna will share my exile. Sri Rama will return home along with Lakshmana take over the reigns of the kingdom of Ayodhya. O Gods grant this earnest craving of mine, when I entreat Sri Rama to assume the sovereignty of Ayodhya in that case I will serve the period of exile; else grant me the permission to roam with him in the forest.”

Voyage across Ganga: Having spent that night at the very spot on the bank of Ganga where Sri Rama had rested; at daybreak Bharata addressed to Shatrugna, “Arise Shatrugna ask the Nishada lord to lend his aid to convey us to the other shore of the river Ganga.” To the gentle admonition of Bharata, said Shatrugna, ‘I was contemplating on Sri Rama and I was not asleep,’ as the brothers were conversing thus, they were joined by the Nishada king Guha. After the exchange of morning salutations, Bharata requested Guha to make quick arrangements for early passage of him and his army over the Ganga. At Guha’s commands five hundred exceptional boats were moored and sailors were ready at the helm and Guha himself was ready with one splendid boat and soon Bharata, Shatrugna, Kausalya, Sumitra, the family priests, the elders, the Brahmans and all others got on to the boats; and the boats bearing the royal train and their baggage sped. As is customary with the army they burnt the huts in which it had spent the night before they got onto the boats, some boats were full of women, while others were loaded with horses, while some ferried costly chariots and animals of draught, the rowers of boats were all kinsmen of Guha. Swimming across the Ganga as urged by their mahouts, the elephants with flags on their back shone like winged mountains. Transported across Ganga by the fishermen themselves in their crafts; were Bharata, Sage Vasistha, the holy men, the army, some men swam across with the help of big and small earthen vessels and some swam with their arms alone, they were all proceeding on their mission to bring Sri Rama back to Ayodhya. After alighting on the other shore of the river Ganga they marched towards the excellent forest encircling Prayag; Bharata addressed his weary men to rest there, while Bharata, the family priest, Sage Vasistha, and the Brahmans set out to meet Bharadwaja the foremost of the Rishis at his hermitage (Bharadwaja is referred to as the family priest of the Gods because he sprung from the loins of Sage Brhaspati the preceptor of Gods).

At Saint Bharadwaja’s Hermitage: When the prince of men, Bharata, attired only in two linen robes saw at a distance the dwelling of Sage Bharadwaja, he set aside his arms and weapons, proceeded reverently on foot to the hermitage of Bhradwaja placing sage Vasistha ahead of him. Together they paid their due reverence to the austere Saint Bharadwaja, who gave to his distinguished visitors water to wash their feet and hands; later he offered them the fruits. The omniscient sage Bharadwaja made enquiries of the welfare of all at Ayodhya to the exclusion of Dasaratha, and was told all was well he replied to the Sage Vasistha and Bharata that all was well at his hermitage too. Moved by his love for Sri Rama, the sage questioned of his guest Kaikeyi’s son Bharata, “Kausalya’s son Sri Rama through the instrumentality of Kaikeyi was banished by Dasaratha, and the kingdom which is rightfully Sri Rama’s was denied to him. Some doubts disturb my soul, Bharata please explain to me fully; declare the cause of your visit to this abode of Sri Rama. Do you wish to harm the innocent and guileless Sri Rama Sita and Lakshmana?” Sinless Bharata’s sad reply thereto “I am lost O Saint if you can think such crime can proceed from me, I did not approve of what my mother sought for me nor am I enthused by my jealous mother’s intent. I only desire to fall at my noble and heroic brother’s feet and lead him back to Ayodhya. This is the aim of my journey now; I dutifully request you to favor me the path leading to the dwelling of my Sri Rama” Saint Bharadwaja spoke to Bharata “I know where the dutiful Sri Rama resides; I know only too well your inner thoughts and I spoke to you the way I did so only to toughen your resolve; also that your fame spreads far and wide I know the place on the great Chitrakoot mountains where Sri Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana are dwelling; you can go to the place where Sri Rama dwells tomorrow; please do stay with all your people at my abode tonight, grant this desire of mine.” Bharata readily made up his mind and replied “So be it”

Bharadwaja’s impressive banquet: The austere saint Bharadwaja invited Bharata to a generous reception to which Bharata replied “Every kind of hospitality which could be arranged in the woodland area has already been given to us, our wants are more than satisfied.” Bharadwaja after that spoke with a smile, “I know you are likely to be pleased with anything that is offered to you, it is my sincere yearning that I consider hosting a banquet for the army of yours, why did you not come to this spot with your army?” With hands raised up in reverence Bharata replied to the great hermit; “O sage I did not bring my troops here due to the admiration mingled with reverence I have for you, also the home of a hermit should always be avoided by the troops of the king or the king’s son. I feared the elephants, steed and all animals would violate your holy place, for this reason I came to your sanctified place accompanied by sage Vasistha.” The hermit decreed, “Bring your army here,” Bharata instantly complied with the command of the sage, forthwith he caused the army to be brought there. Sage Bharadwaja afterwards went to the fire sanctuary, prayed to the Gods, “I wish to host an impressive banquet, I wish to provide hospitality to the army of prince Bharata, let the God Viswakarma the divine carpenter hear my call, may all my wants be supplied; through Lord Indra I invoke the presence of the three (Yama, Varuna, and Kubera) guardians of the spheres may all my needs this day be supplied, let all the streams that flow on the earth and the sky flow hither, and all my requirements be completed.” The sage of noble vows rich in meditation of mind and endowed with matchless glory, uttered words of invocation pronounced according to the rules of phonetics and accented according to the rules of grammar. Even as the sage invoked the gods with his mind, his palms joined in supplication, all those deities came one by one before him and spread a palace far and wide with a throne and many a seat and couch, and food fit for celestials and Gods was there ready to serve. Before the throne Bharata bent in reverence to Sri Rama as though Sri Rama was seated there, and sat in the chair for the principal minister and the other ministers and household priest occupied their seat in the order of precedence; followed by the host; the most revered Sage and all others whom he honored most. Food and drinks were served to the troops stricken with hunger and those addicted to drinking got their desires, everyone got whatever they sought and were satiated with ambrosia like food, tempting meat and dainty delicacies, all enjoyed the feast that was on offer. The grooms created by Sage Bharadwaja fed sumptuously the camels, horses, elephants, oxen and donkeys. Reveled and delirious with wild delight the warriors uttered in lawless glee “This place is indeed heaven, we have perfect bliss, may happy fate attend on Sri Rama and Bharata, we will stay here, we now neither seek Ayodhya nor do we intend to proceed to Dandaka forests.” To all those gathered there it seemed to be a magic scene they dreamt, they spent that night in joy and merriment. The convoy spent that night in hilarity, delight, ecstasy, and high spirits in the grove of the sage Bharadwaja, That night however passed away, each Gods; celestial nymph; minstrels; streams and all bade adieu to the sage; the blissful mansion and all swiftly moved heavenwards; the vicinity of the hermitage was seen to be strewn with celestial garlands and the like.

Bharata takes leave of Saint Bharadwaja: The following morning the irreproachable Bharata with joined hands and head bent in reverence to the most radiant sage spoke in answer “We have passed the night well, the feast you gave delighted all of us, relieved all of us of our fatigue and discomfort. O venerable Sir, I beseech you to bestow a compassionate look and guide me on the path leading to the virtuous Sri Rama’s retreat.” The glorious sage replied “O highly fortunate prince, lead your army along the southern banks of Yamuna then turn to the left and proceed southward, amidst extensive and wild forest you will find tall Chitrakoot mountains. To the north of the Chitrakoot Mountains you will see the beauteous Mandakini River. Between the river and the mountain you will find the cottage where Sri Rama dwells with illustrious Lakshmana and Videhan princess Sita.” Soon as they heard of the planned journey the three mothers of Bharata leaving their chariots assembled around Bharadwaja and clasped his feet. The great sage of rigorous vows sought from Bharata information of his mothers. The pious Bharata, answered the sagacious Bharadwaja, “ she who is here like a goddess in her form now looking afflicted and emaciated through fast and grieving, is the chief consort of the king Dasaratha, the mother of Sri Rama, called Kausalya. The second of the queens whose one arm is clinging to Kausalya who now stands despondent at heart and stricken with agony, is the Godly Sumitra the mother of Lakshmana and Shatrugna. This is the fair wicked dame through whom my brothers’ lives are swathed in gloom and my father the emperor Dasaratha mourning for his dear offspring proceeded heavenwards. She is the proud foolish hearted, quick to fury, self fancied darling of my father, the most ambitious and unlovely but with a lovely deportment is my mother Kaikeyi; she is ever accustomed to evil deeds and is the root and spring of all my present woes,” so concluded Bharata with sobs and tear filled eyes which were also glowing red with rage. Supreme in wisdom Bharadwaja gave this good counsel to the prince, “O Bharata do not lay blame on your mother, for out of her action and from banished Sri Rama’s wandering in the forests many a blessing may spring.” Cheered by the calm and wise counsel of the sage; Bharata went clock-wise around the revered saint, he commanded the army to prepare for the journey, royal Bharata with all his retinue proceeded to Chitrakoot.

Off to Chitrakoot: The march of Bharata to Chitrakoot with the multitude of his army scared, bears, deer, wild elephants and the other customary wild inhabitants of this forest land; startled they fled in terror. Bharata’s massive army comprising, the chariots, horsemen, elephants and foot soldiers, was closely crowded; no land was seen between their serried ranks. When they had covered a long distance, as the steeds showed signs of fatigue, Bharata spoke; “From the topography of this region, I trace several features of this place, to what I heard from the lips of Sage Bharadwaja. I see the river Mandakini, I see on the incline of the mountain’s umbrageous woods, the lovely peacocks fly in fear here, I also see this place heavily populated with birds engaging in every charm, this should be the place where hermits dwell, let the army now search for the two lords Sri Rama and Lakshmana here. Getting crowded with men, this place which was noiseless and of dreadful aspect till now, the place now to me looks like Ayodhya, this region appears to me to be enthralling. This home of ascetics is a road to heaven. Let the troops advance in an inconspicuous manner; scan the forest for the presence of Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Videhan princess.” Soon the army spread into the tangled forests in their search; at a distance they saw spire of smoke, they reasoned that Raghu’s sons dwell in that place, else other hermits as good and true as Sri Rama must be residing there. Quickly they conveyed their version of the observation to Bharata, who instructed the troops to stay put in silence at that very spot and decided that along with Sumantra and Dhrithi he will proceed to the place. The army which was held at that spot felt rejoiced anticipating as they did of their meeting soon with their beloved Sri Rama,.

Enchanting Chitrakoot: Sri Rama to please his spouse and also to ease the misery within him, spoke in admiration of the enchanting Chitrakoot in the following words to his Videhan spouse Sita, “On seeing this delightful mountain neither loss of dominion nor parting from near and dear, nor my altered fate exasperates my mind. In this king of the peaks that pierces the sky the lovable melody of the birds fill the air, there roams the harmless bears, tigers, leopards hyenas, deer’s, wild birds, there are varied trees with plentiful fruits and flowers of various shades. Ornamented with minerals parts of the mountains sparkle in various hues some like blood red, some yellowish, some like silver, some sparkling like topaz, crystal and the like. In engaging delight many pairs of heavenly minstrels revel here, sweet rivulets from the mountain caves seam in bright cascades; catching on its way numerous fragrance emanating from the variety of flowers, enrapture and regale the olfactory sense. If I spend many years in this lovely hill, which abounds in many varied scenes and presents a very charming sight, with you my innocent spouse Sita and Lakshmana by my side I will never be reminded of my woes. Staying here I am really captivated of this enjoyable mountain, I secure twofold gain, namely, I uphold my father’s plighted word, and secondly Bharata too is gratified, gets his pleasure, the kingdom of Ayodhya. Such is the enchanting look of this mountain, some parts of this mount wears the look of a mansion, some others look like lovely garden and yet other parts presents the look of solid, massive block of undivided rock. My forefathers have defined disciplined residence in forests as conducive to the cessation of rebirth after death. With you my darling by my side and Lakshmana ever near to me I shall live here in delight and also adhere to my oath and make my ancestral fame, brighter.”

River Mandakini: Sri Rama showed to Maithili lady the delightful lovely stream of Mandakini river that flowed softly and was adorned with islets and swans at play. On the banks of this river there were trees with fruits and flowers of every kind. The limpid waters of this river are turned turbid only by the gathering herds of thirsty deer. In this river holy hermits with matted hair, clothed in skins of deer, and coats of bark, bathe and offer their prayers. Down the swift currents of this river now they saw a pair of wild-fowl extremely elated giving forth their joyful cries.Said Sri Rama, “Dear Sita take a dip in this river which abounds in lotuses and lilies, this river is sanctified by the revered men bathing here. Let this beautiful hill be our Ayodhya and the river Mandakini the Sarayu, I will bathe thrice in this river; the roots fruits and honey which this wondrous Chitrakoot offers, keeps my thoughts away from my distant home; also away are my thoughts on loss of sovereign,” thus spoke the pride of the Raghu’s race eloquently to his Vidhehan bride.

The extraordinary arrow: Thus Sri Rama showed to his Videhan dame the varied beauty of the wild, the hill, the brook, every fair place, and sought to return to his cottage. To the north of the mountain, he found a charming cavern on the slopes where he heard ecstasy stirred gay birds singing; he saw the graceful branches of the trees burdened with blossoms bent low; gazing at the enchanting sylvan view, Sri Rama spoke to his Videhan bride, “Does this cave enthrall you, let us indolently rest here for a while on that smooth stone, it is set as if for you.” Sita replied, “My desire is subordinate to your will, my pleasure is to know and comply with your wish,” saying so she went to the stone and prepared to rest with him for a while. Sri Rama turning to his spouse said, “You see this sylvan cave resounds with shrill cries of the birds, I hear the kite above us groans in pitiable tones, as she calls her young ones, I am reminded of my mother mourning in her home for me. See the blooming mango that clings to the tender rings of that creeper, much like when none is around your arms are thrown round me dear.” Thus in joy she grew closer to the embrace of her lord, after resting a while on that rocky seat, they spent time in engaging distraction, Sri Rama’s heart overflowed with happiness. While thus roaming on the woodland where every kind of creature strayed, she observed a monkey wandering close by, in fear she clung to Sri Rama’s arms, who consoled his spouse in her dread and scared the monkey till he fled. One day after Sita had finished her meals, Sri Rama told his spouse to drive the flocking crows away, however Sri Rama saw Sita was distressed by the antics of one bold crow that could fly wherever he chose to. After Sri Rama saw Sita enraged, he was stirred to anger by the excessively annoying bird. When Sri Rama saw Sita’s cheek burning with passion he rebuked the crow, but the bird in his impudence had no respect for Sri Rama’s words, instead fearlessly flew again at Sita. At this Sri Rama’s wrath grew, in fury he charged a mystic charm over a shaft and laying the dire weapon on his bow he launched it at the recalcitrant crow Empowered by the God to leap through the three worlds, the bird filled with terror sped through the earth, and to his horror found the shaft chasing him in all the three worlds. Helpless and finding there being no shelter from the shaft, he turned towards the high souled Sri Rama and falling prostrate at his feet, said in accents of a man; “Take pity on me and spare my life.” Sri Rama moved by the birds supplication then addressed the bird, “I was moved by Sita’s trouble and filled with rage I shot this arrow to slay you. Now you pray forgiveness and seek to spare your life. For me to show pity on you and to spare your life, you have to forfeit one part of your body to this mystic shaft, offer me your choice.” The bird pondered at this and deemed it good to give one eye of his, and live thereafter with only one eye, communicated the same to Sri Rama. Commanded by Sri Rama and to the amazement of Sita, the shaft smote one eye of the bird. The crow humbly bent low at Sri Rama and thankfully fled away. (This Kandam is allowed to be an interpolation; it seems this is not in the work of Valmiki)

Lakshmana provoked: Sri Rama was reposing with Sita on the mountain seat and was showing his consort the enchanting sight of the rivulet flowing down the Chitrakoot hill. Suddenly there was a deafening noise caused by the roar of marching men, resulting in a cloud of dust moving skywards, tigers woken from their sleep were driven out of their den, serpents raced to their holes, in terror herds of deer fled, the bears began to leave the trees, monkeys fled to their caves, as though the trees were ablaze the scared elephants were confounded with sudden conjecture, buffaloes looked awestruck, the lions opened their jaws in careful deliberation and the fearful din was growing more fearful all the time. Sri Rama sought from the son of Sumitra the cause of the appalling, deafening, deep and loud din. In haste Lakshmana climbed the high sal tree in the vicinity and saw a mighty well armed army comprising all the four limbs, he spoke to Sri Rama the following words; “ My lord be quick to put out the fire, let Sita retire to the caves and you get ready with your bows and arrows.” Sri Rama asked his darling brother to have a closer look and ascertain whose army it could be. Sighting the ensign Kovidara tree, Lakshmana concluded it was the army led by Bharata and fully enraged he exclaimed having completed the consecration on the throne of Ayodhya yet not satisfied Bharata now comes with his army to slaughter us. After scanning the joyous army led by Bharata army closely, advancing towards the Chitrakoot hill, excited with fierce rage within, thus spoke Lakshmana, “Dear Rama, Bharata who inflicted this woe in the form of banishment on you, Sita and me is our foe, hence I see no sin accrues if I slay my foe today, Bharata who is our foe surely deserves to be killed, Bharata has wronged you before hence there is only sin in case we do not kill him, Kaikeyi too who is covetous of the throne should perish with her kith and kin; my arrows released shall pierce the bodies of my foes and the wandering beasts of prey here shall feed on them”

Lakshmana pacified: In response to the entirely combative attitude of Lakshmana towards Bharata, Sri Rama replied, “The brave, wise, and good Bharata comes here with a mighty longing to see me, where is the need for us to wield the sword, bend the bow or lift the shield. Having affirmed in a solemn manner to implement the pledge of my father what do I propose to gain by slaying Bharata now? Believe me dear Lakshmana I seek no power or treasure that involves the fall of my friend, kith or kin, I swear in the name of this uplifted bow I seek only bliss, safety and welfare of my brothers. O kind Lakshmana, it is not difficult for me to acquire the sovereignty of the entire globe, but if I were to gain through unrighteousness I do not covet even the position of Indra; if any joy comes to me deprived of Shatrugna, Bharata or you let fire reduce that desire of mine to ashes. Knowing the custom of Raghu’s race, Bharata when he came to know of our exile he would have spoken in anger; grievous words at Kaikeyi and would have won the kings approval for our return to Ayodhya. Bharata has only come here for an interview and has not got one evil thought in him against you or me. What has he done to you before, how has he failed in love or due respect to you, to make you doubt his faith, which caused you to lay such charge and harsh words to him? If perchance you have uttered these cruel words, only motivated by a desire on the empire I will ask Bharata to give you the kingdom and he will willingly oblige?” Hearing these words of Sri Rama whose only delight was duty and to be on the path of virtue; Lakshmana shrank in shame. Lord Sri Rama continued, “Lakshmana I think it is the strong armed monarch who has decided to come here to see us quit the exile and when I see no white umbrella spread over the royal aged elephant Shatrunjaya’s head there rises the doubt and fear in me, speculating the reasons for the monarchs absence,” thus spoke the pious Sri Rama. Bharata rebuked his troops for having caused improper advances towards the hermitage of Sri Rama and instructed his troops to be twelve miles away from that hermitage. Setting aside vanity, and placing righteousness in the forefront, loaded in the sense of propriety Bharata proceeded to win Sri Rama’s grace.

Bharata presses forward to Sri Rama’s hermitage: The army having encamped at a distance from the Chitrakoot hills, Bharata instructed Shatrugna to go to the thickets with a band of Nisada soldiers and look there for the scions of Kakutsa, a similar message was given to Nisada king Guha. Bharata in the meanwhile with the aid of elders, Brahmans, lords/ministers and other citizens set out on the same task on foot, he declared; “I feel restless till I see Sri Rama, the mighty armed Lakshmana and Sita of happy fate; who is true to every wifely duty, who is ever faithful and is ever by the side of her husband. I will rest only when I restore the hereditary reign that rightfully is Sri Rama’s; after due consecration to Him. Charming is this mountain which vies in majesty with Kubera’s Chaitraratha gardens and blessed too are the innumerable savage beasts that wander aimlessly in this region, where the glory of the warriors race Sri Rama has made this his place of dwelling for now”. As the strong armed Bharata was speaking thus, he passed through clusters of trees, climbing up a sal tree he saw a towering column of smoke and concluded “at least for now the monumental toil is rewarded, this is where Sri Rama dwells.” The high souled Bharata proceeded with quick steps along with Guha to meet Sri Rama.

Coming together of brothers: Bharata showed to Shatrugna the spots/marks indicating the presence of hermitage in the vicinity, then requested the sage Vasistha to fetch his mothers promptly, impelled by fraternal love he strode forward to have a look at Sri Rama’s face and was followed closely by Sumantra. Speeding on Bharata beaming with joy at the prospect of seeing his brother soon, reached the abode of Sri Rama, which was a hermit’s home made of twigs and leaves. He also beheld on the vicinity of that home heaps of dried fuel to provide as protection against cold. “I perceive this to be the very place which saint Bharadwaja pointed out, I am happy, my task is done, I can also see the presence of the holy flame, I shall now look for the Raghu’s son a tiger among men, who like all great saints takes delight in showing respect to the elders. This prince of men, the lord of earth, now sequestered in a hermit’s cell, after relinquishing all the earthly bliss, resides in a home like this. All these sorrows are inflicted on my Sri Rama only on my account, I am rightly abhorred by the whole world I will fall at the feet of my dear lord Sri Rama, Lakshmana and the fair Sita for my odious sin and win their pardon.” Sadly mourning and sighing Dasaratha’s son discovered on the sacred and lovely bower therein great swords each in a case of gold brocade that adorned the cottage, nay lent sheen to the cottage, which in itself was safe from fear of men and wild beasts, he saw in that cottage sacred fire atop the altar turned to north and east. Bharata eagerly glanced inside the cottage; to his dismay saw his high minded brother born to lofty fate, supremely great Sri Rama with matted hairs attired in deer skin now seated with Lakshmana and Sita besides him. Such a sight roused deep sorrow within Bharata yielding to his woe he ran to Sri Rama sobbing and said, “Ah me, I was born to bear the peoples hate and scorn, wretched me I am the cause of Sri Rama’s present plight, my elder brother the high souled hero who is to be seated on a royal throne, he is now banished, attired in deerskin he is seated here with sylvan creatures near him.” Crying “Dear Lord,” Bharata fell at Sri Rama’s feet and Shatrugna wept aloud and all those present there cast all thoughts of joy aside.

Lessons on judicature: Sri Rama could barely recognize pale faced emaciated Bharata, he raised him from the ground kissed him on the head and enquired, “What brings you to this forest, with all this paraphernalia? Why, this enormous crowd and this great army? Where is my father, is he still living, why have you left the kingdom and are now attired in deer skin and have sported matted lock, has your sovereignty which has come from perpetuity not been lost? Is the sage Vasistha suitably venerated by you, is your personal priest treated with esteem by you; do you hold in admiration the gods, the manes, your teacher, elders, kinsmen, physician and the aged? Is all well with Kausalya, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi; hope the glorious mother Kaikeyi is rejoicing your ascension to the throne? I do hope you have secured the services of competent counsellors; your ministers are well versed in affairs of state; you are not indolent, you do not take crucial decisions without consulting anyone nor do you take counsel from many? I hope you have got as commander of armed forces a man who is confident, resolute, and gallant, dedicated and is not seeking kingly duties for himself. One brilliant, bold, knowledgeable, minister well versed in government can bring a large fortune to the king; such a person is to be preferred over a thousand fools. I hope you distribute the remuneration to all whose services are engaged at the appropriate time. I hope you do not support atheist for they are smug, badly informed, distorted in intellect, relying on their coherent insight, these men of perverted intellect preach non-sense in the presence of foremost of books on piety. I hope the kingdom of Ayodhya which was well protected by our ancestors, is graced by community carousing, is totally free from violence, and is deprived of sinful men. Are all your reinforcements fully supplied with wealth, provisions, arms, water, automatic devices, and equipped with artisans and bowmen? I hope when charged with some offence, no pious, sinless man not found guilty by those well versed in law is convicted; also no guilty person apprehended and convicted is released without proper chastisement, also in a contention between an affluent and financially feeble man do your learned jury decide the case impartially? I hope you are not excessively devoted to acquisition of wealth, nor do you mar your interests by your indulgence in the gratification of your senses, I hope you pursue the acquisition of wealth, pursuit of sense delights, and accumulation of religious merits only at the appointed hours of the day. I hope you do abjure the well scripted failings of the kings; have your senses fully subjugated; and have you mastered the statecraft. Do you hold consultation in accordance with the scriptural authority with only three or four selected counsellors either jointly or severally to guard the secrets leaking out? I hope you are humble and tread the path taken by our forebears and hold sway over the dominion in consonance with righteousness;” so spoke Sri Rama.

Interrogated Bharata replies: Concluding from the attire and deportment that Bharata the son of Kaikeyi; was full of affection to him, Sri Rama further questioned Bharata, “I wish to be explained clearly by you why are you here in the wooded area, clad in ascetic dress, sporting matted tresses, relinquishing sovereignty?” Thus questioned comprehensively; weeping and sobbing Bharata responded in the following words; “The great monarch our father was induced to this ill proceedings by Kaikeyi, and having done this detested act, grieving for his son the monarch proceeded heavenwards and my mother queen Kaikeyi whose slave the king was and at whose bidding this sin was convoluted, has ruined her great name; she has committed a great sin; she has ruined the family and its name, ruined her name, ruined my name, and brought devastation to the whole kingdom and for her impious crime will go for punishment to hell; my lord, I do not wish to profit by it. It is the unanimous wish of the people of the kingdom that Sri Rama should return and take charge of the sovereignty which is yours, rightfully yours, by virtue of primogeniture. Be gracious to accept this request of one and all of us and get anointed the king and proceed to Ayodhya, do not let this realm be loathsome; heed the call of the venerable advisers of our father and grant the supplication.” Sri Rama replied to Bharata, “How can I commit a deviant deed for the sake of sovereignty, I do not perceive even a infinitesimal fault in you; freedom of action on the part of the elders is permitted with reference to their esteemed spouse and progeny. Our righteous father was perfectly within his rights to lodge me in the woods or install me on the throne. Why do you think that your mother has no right to command you? Why do you dispute her authority? The mother is as good as the father. I have been ordered by both father and mother to go and live in the forest for fourteen years and they have done no wrong. I do not object to this; Kaikeyi had in her possession boons granted by her husband and she had exercised her right in the direction of natural affection towards an only son. Where is the harm? Our father held himself down by the promise that he had made and I obeyed.” Dear Bharata you and I have to respect the righteous monarch’s will, you are the heir to his bliss and I will spend twice seven years in banishment. This to me is far better, richer in gain and I am blessed with this arrangement”.

Bharata continues to beseech Sri Rama: Bharata having heard his elder brother now spoke, “In our family of Ikshvaku the eldest son has the claim to this throne you are pre-eminently fitted to wear this crown; the younger son is never anointed the king when the eldest son is alive; our Solar dynasty never deviated from this custom and I will have nothing to do with sovereignty. The king is considered to be virtuous in thoughts and deeds and he seems to me a God. O scion of Raghu return with me to the affluent city of Ayodhya and get consecrated as the king to the delight of everyone. When I was in the distant Kekaya, you proceeded to the forests with your wife and Lakshmana; the delight of the saints, our father stricken with grief caused by separation from you and unable to divert his psyche, which was solely attached to you, died. I and Shatrugna have already offered water to the departed king and Lakshmana and you offer water to the spirit of our deceased father; it is said that water offered by a darling son becomes inexhaustible in the other world. You are the dearest of our father, he wanted you dearly, he grieved for you, his every thought was on you, crushed by the misery of separation from you he sought the heavens thinking of you as he departed to the other world.”

The funeral observance: When Sri Rama heard from Bharata the mournful news of his father’s demise, his spirits fell, his senses deserted him, weeping he fainted and fell on the ground. Quickly his wife and brothers sprinkled water over him, slowly regaining his senses and strength Sri Rama addressed the following righteous words to Bharata, “Happy brothers are you, you have paid homage to the king in all the obsequies rites. The guardian of Ayodhya, the king, our father, grieving for me, wept for me, mourning for me, he died, he was not even cremated by me. Even after the period of my exile, when I return to Ayodhya I cannot hear the charming words of my father that filled my bosom with delight; the realm of Ayodhya has been rendered destitute.” Weeping and shedding torrents of tears he said “O Sita your father-in-law is no more, Lakshmana you are fatherless; Bharata somberly narrates this.” To his imperial father who ruled the earth he proceeded with his spouse and brother to offer water to the spirit of his departed soul, they proceeded to the river Mandakini strictly following the order of procession laid on these occasions.(The order of the procession on these occasions is that the children precede according to the age, then the women and thereafter the men according to their age, the youngest first and the eldest last; when they descend into the water this is reversed and resumed when they come out of it) Gentle, modest, meek, kind and of noble mind Sumantra lent his arm to guide Sri Rama down to the river’s holy side. In bitter sorrow Sri Rama reached the spot where the water was pellucid, filled the water in his hollowed hand and then turned to the southern side, stretched out his arm, weeping he said “To you the lord of kings, I offer to your spirits this clear and pure, sacred water, please accept the same wherever your spirits live.” Ascending the shores of the river, Sri Rama stricken with agony, with the help of his brothers spread on the banks of the river a mat of kusa grass, served on this mat food offering to the spirit of his deceased father saying, “Great king enjoy the cake now offered to you, which we your children eat. Deities partake of the same food which a man worshipping them eats.” Afterwards Sri Rama and his brothers together with Sita hurried to the cottage, in their affliction they let go a loud cry and this noise shook Bharata’s army with fear. The army and the others waiting in the vicinity of that mountain concluded surely this woeful wail is that of the children of Dasaratha mourning their deceased father, and they proceeded hastily in the direction of the sound. The sudden march of the men startled the deer, lion, tiger, boar, roe, bison, wild-cow, buffalo, birds and every sylvan being that lived there ran for cover. All of a sudden people reproaching Kaikeyi and Manthara they all ran eagerly towards their Sri Rama. Sri Rama received each one of with respect befitting their status. Overcome with their mighty woe the cry of the gathering presented a deafening roar.

The get-together: Placing the royal widows in the forefront; Sage Vasistha with a keen desire to have a look at Sri Rama, proceeded to the region where Sri Rama was sojourning. The imperial queens, moving slowly made their way to the Mandakini River, to where the two brothers visited regularly. Queen Kausalya with faded cheeks and weeping eyes in mournful tones addressed queen Sumitra and the others, “See in the woods, the descent of the bank of the river which the two orphaned youths frequent; it is from here your son draws water to meet the needs of my son, from this day let this son of yours who is undeserving of hardships give up this painful work, he is unfit for this toil, he has not been condemned; let this son of yours quit this pious task of serving my son Sri Rama.(now that his elder brother is soon to return to Ayodhya).” Presently Kausalya saw the humble funeral offering comprising food prepared of the pulp of Ingudi’s fruit/seed in accordance with the scriptural ordinance and placed by Sri Rama on the blades of Kusa grass; for the purpose of gratification of the spirits of his mighty father. Kausalya consoled herself saying that the “Blessed God’s never refuse to eat the food their children eat.” Soon the ladies approached the hermitage of Sri Rama, where they glimpsed Sri Rama, who looked like a God fallen from the skies. On seeing the ladies Sri Rama left his seat, clasped their feet; after that Lakshmana and Sita followed Sri Rama in paying their reverence to the dowager empresses and all the three were received with tender love. Seeing Sita dwelling in the wild woods, pale; withered through exile, she was embraced befitting a darling child and they cried “How could you, the offspring of a king Janaka and the daughter-in-law of the emperor Dasaratha, endure this woe in the wooded area, your adversity and sorrow ravages the heart.” Sri Rama as a mark of reverence pressed the feet of Sage Vasistha, the blissful teacher and took a seat near him. Bharata with his upraised hands paid his fond obeisance, gazed upon his brother and took a seat behind him. The sight of celebrated Sri Rama, noble minded Lakshmana and the pious Bharata with the holy priests around, was all effulgence and shone like the three sacrificial fires; there were the anxious thoughts rife in the assembly, with expectations on what words would Bharata speak.

Sri Rama’s discussion: (The following Sargas are also referred to as Rama Gita by some scholars) Next morning after the usual ablutions Bharata, Shatrugna and all others who had come there were concerned and anxious that Bharata’s resolve should succeed. They met together in a solemn conclave, all fully aware and with expectations that a great event was going to take place and that they are witness to the same. Bharata began by saying, “My mother has been satisfied by you and this kingdom of Ayodhya has been bestowed on me; my mother Kaikeyi gave it to me, it is mine now and I dispose of it now by offering it to you, please take it from me free from all trouble. My lord, my power is nothing compared to your imperial might, O lord it behoves you to protect us, you are the sole tamer of enemies, please take the course of return journey to Ayodhya. With you seated on the throne, your very presence will lend all round effulgence, the guild of traders, the army comprising all its four limbs, the ladies living in the royal gynaceum and all will rejoice,” the supplication was acclaimed by the assembly in words, “WELL SAID.” Sri Rama began his dialogue to Bharata’s supplication, “I cannot do the things I will for Sri Rama is a mortal, freedom of action does not belong to the embodied soul, since the soul is powerless, destiny alone drags the soul. Fate is supreme, Fate is the irresistible law and it is accountable for everything, all is predetermined. All accumulations come to an end by depletion, elevation end by crumbling and falling; unions end by separation, life ends by death. As ripe fruits must inevitably fall to the ground, so must a man born inevitably perish? Victims of age and death, men do pass away, just as a building supported by strong pillars decays in time and comes down. The night, when it passes away, never returns. The Yamuna discharges her water into the great ocean but never returns back in her course. As the sun’s rays dry up water in summer, in much the same way days and nights pass over the heads of all creatures on earth and soon consume their lives. Whether you stand still or move, you days diminish, hence grieve only for yourself do not grieve for anyone else. Death travels with one; death rests with one; however far one goes, one cannot leave death behind, for it returns too. The skin is wrapped in folds and wrinkles, the hairs turn white, age destroys a man, what can he do to avoid this? At sunrise men rejoice thinking they may work and earn, at sundown they rejoice also thinking they can enjoy themselves, but they do not realize that their lives are shrinking. As the seasons come round men fancy, they are ever fresh and feel happy, unaware that with each cycle of the seasons our lives are shortened. As logs of wood that part from each other come together on the wide ocean, having drifted together for a time, so do wives, sons, kinsmen and possessions come together and separate, this separation is inevitable. No one on earth ever escapes the course of nature, hence mourning for the dead cannot avail one when one’s turn comes. As a man, falling on a caravan on the move, says to those there, ’I too will accompany you’, so is the journey of life, which has been already performed by our fathers, grandfathers and forefathers. When one joins the journey, which knows no change, obviously one cannot complain. Like a stream that never reverses its course, so one’s life ever lessens in duration. One must therefore strive for happiness, through righteousness, for it is well known all men seek happiness”. Thus to Bharata, Sri Rama of lofty mind spoke his righteous speech, every argument therein designed to impel obedience to his father’s command.

Bharata’s response: (Though Bharata praises Sri Rama’s wisdom and acknowledges to be enlightened but his understanding in unaltered) Bharata replied to virtuous Sri Rama in the following words, “O bane of foes, neither joy raises your spirits, nor sorrow torments your soul, you are endowed with great fortitude, you are true to your promise, affliction which is unbearable for us does not bother you. Have pity on me, when I was away Kaikeyi fancying that her action will please me behaved in this manner. Though she deserves to be severely punished, I don’t punish her for I am afraid of violating the rule of righteousness. As for as our father, Dasaratha, he was an old man, a dotard, he was in the hands of my mother. The old saying that people weaken in their age and become senile has been amply testified by our father; thinking that he was under some obligation, or perhaps in fear of the anger of the wife or through some mistake passed an unjust order, do not confirm him in the error; invalidate the sin; dismiss the thought of trespass from your mind; safeguard the realm. In this world it is the duty of the son, when the father has gone wrong to put the matter right, instead if the son obeys his father in the wrong course, in that case he brings about his father’s fall, do not carry out the wrong passed by the father, and thus confer celestial punishment upon him. Save him by doing the right thing (Apatyam). My lord, you ever like to sacrifice yourself; it is in your nature to prefer a painful duty, sovereignty is an arduous duty, to live in the forests like a hermit with matted hair is incongruous with the royal duties. How can you knowing Dharma get away from the Kshatriya Dharma, do not seek to abandon your dharma, if you desire to pursue a path of high merit following from hardship alone, undergo suffering while protecting the four divisions of the society by resort to rectitude? In comparison with you I am junior to you by birth, do not put too much burden on my unripe shoulders, I cannot take upon myself the reign of this mighty kingdom. I have brought all the Brahmans, all the women, the army is here, minstrels and all things necessary, including the musical accompaniments are here, Sage Vasistha is also here, it is my intention to have you anointed nay crowned here accept my prayers and extend your rule over all of us from Ayodhya. Today let all those who are friendly to you rejoice and those who hate you flee, this action of yours wipes off the humiliation attached to me and my mother, also your actions will save our esteemed father from remorse. Dear Sri Rama, bestow compassion, heed the prayers of all of us, our earnest supplications to you, do return to Ayodhya and take over the reigns of the kingdom of Ayodhya, failing which I too will make my abode with you in the woods.” Sri Rama was unmoved and he stuck to his father’s decree; the assembled audience watched the proceedings with tremendous anxiety, they hoped Bharata prevailed and Sri Rama went back to be the king of Ayodhya. So between the satisfaction of Sri Rama’s steadfastness under the rule of righteousness on the one hand and grief on the other hand that they were not to have him as their ruler, sometimes the audience rejoiced and sometimes they lamented but outwardly; yet they seconded Bharata’s prayers.

Sri Rama responds to Bharata: Sri Rama replied to his dear Bharata; “The affirmation that you made is fair-minded; however our father while marrying your mother; promised your maternal grandfather, to confer the kingdom of Ayodhya in favor of her issue, as the offering for his marriage. On another occasion, when in the violent mayhem between Gods and demons in recognition for care and affectionate services rendered; bestowed boons on her. She now brought to the notice of our father the pending boons, and our father the king commanded me to exile and conferred on you the ruler-ship of the kingdom. Father has laid on me one duty, exile, he has laid on you the other duty, ruling the kingdom of Ayodhya, just as I being his eldest son, I obey his command, you too likewise are obliged to carry out your duty, that is the ruler ship of Ayodhya. Carry out your father’s wish, please your mother by carrying out your father’s wish, get yourself crowned, and do not tarry, be a son (PUTRA). In the days of yore, a great man named Gaya residing in the place Gaya performed great austerities and saved his forefathers, and he laid down that practice for posterity. (Gaya is a holy city in Bihar, every Hindu ought once in his life to make funeral offerings in Gaya for his ancestors. A son is referred to as PUTRA PUT is the name of the region of hell to which men are doomed, who leave no sons to perform the funeral rites which are necessary to ensure happiness of the departed. Putra, the common word for a son, is said to have the highest authority to be derived from PUT and TRA meaning deliverer). It is the duty of a Hindu son to pay funeral rites of his parents at Gaya. A son is born to free his father from the infernal pains and give him peace; hence he is the liberator of his father. Now Bharata, you proceed with speed to Ayodhya with the brave Shatrugna, without delay and crown yourself the king and I will be the lord of the sylvan world. I am happy and content at Dandaka forests along with Lakshmana and Sita. Let us the four sons of Dasaratha pursue the right path and be true to the promise of king Dasaratha whom we all revere.”

Jabali’s intercession: While Sri Rama was thus soothing his brother’s (Bharata’s) grief an eminent sage Jabali by name sought to persuade Sri Rama to accept the throne by advocating the theory of non-believers (atheist), with intent to arouse in Sri Rama the lust of sovereignty. He said: “there are no ties of kindred; alone the babe first opens the eyes, in other words the child is born alone, in the end the child dies alone. That man looks foolish when he feels attached to someone as his father, mother, for none is related to one another; a man holds briefly as his possession, father, mother, wealth both moveable and immoveable during his life in this birth; and at death he takes nothing with him; the wise do not get attached to these. Precisely for this reason, not even the best of men should disown his father’s hereditary throne and tread the rough and stony path in the woods where hardship, woe and dangers are prevalent in plenty. Come to Ayodhya, which is presently orphaned after the demise of the emperor, get yourself enthroned with all the rites and share all the kingly joys; do not lead a life robbed of bliss, pursuing the cause of virtuous path do not suffer uninterrupted destruction. The father is only a resourceful cause of a human being, your father has departed to the other world, it is the common lot of all of us, and you are being stressed for no reason. I bemoan only those who having undergone suffering in this life for the sake of wealth and religious merit, have met with annihilation after death. See how useful food is being wasted in the name of funeral offerings, the deceased can never taste the offerings; logically if the food eaten by one man serves as sustenance to another, one might offer Sraddha to those travelling from home, and no provision for journey would be necessary for them.. All the rituals are framed by crafty knaves, with a view to exalting charity and they advocate ceaselessly, “Give bounteous gifts, worship gods, lead an austere life, give up personal pleasures and patronize impressive rites”. I advise you, “O royal prince, enjoy the present bliss, believe only what you see, heed the earnest prayers of Bharata; take the ruler-ship of Ayodhya which is justly yours and share the kingly joys that await you there” so concluded Jabali.

Sri Rama castigates Jabali: Astute Sri Rama spoke his mind to sage Jabali; “Masked in the words of virtue, you advise to me to stray from the path of duty and you want me to stray on to the forbidden path. Your doctrine is false and conceited, in as much as, if in the name of righteous conduct, I meanly quit the path of virtue, break my plighted promise and commit this soul destroying crime suggested by you, how could I a sinner hope to gain a seat in the heaven? The monarch reigns upholding the truth, the truth sustains this world, truth has been held dear to the hearts of the saints and Gods, and they whose lips utter only the truth attain the highest realms which know of no decay after the death. Truth alone is God, piety hinges on truth, there is no goal higher than truth, charity, sacrificial performances, as well as oblations offered into the sacred fire, and austerities practiced and the Vedas have their foundations on truth. Holy Truth is the root and spring of justice, truth is the virtue’s surest base, and is supreme in worth. Holy Writ depends only on truth, hence all men must defend the truth and only the truth for truth is duty. Neither folly nor ignorance nor greed, shall mislead me; I am bound by my word of promise, my father’s plighted word, shall stand and will remain unharmed by me. I despise seeking in the wrong in the guise of virtue, and as warriors duty I will not lay my claims on things that are base, cruel and covetous. I shall not heed Bharata’s advice to spurn my father’s sentence, for when the sentence was pronounced I made a solemn promise then to make woods my home for fourteen years, Queen Kaikeyi rejoiced that assurance from me with high joy. Firm in my faith, I will pursue my settled course; I will complete my noble task in the woods.” Again Sri Rama chiding Jabali’s impious lore, “I recognize it was a thoughtless act on the part of my father to have given you the privileged place, for you are faithless (atheist) base, mean, devoid of moral or spiritual intellect, you are impious, share this sinful disbelief and you hate that which is right and true,” thus spoke Sri Rama in righteous rage. The virtuous sage Jabali responded to Sri Rama “I chose the atheist lore to persuade you to yield to Bharata’s plea, to return from exile, I abhor the atheist’s doctrine, yet another motive in me was to establish your reputation as a great believer by evoking your opposition to heretical view.”

Vasistha as moderator: Perceiving Sri Rama to be very much exasperated and grieved by Jabali’s doctrine, finding that Sri Rama has been administering a severe rebuke to this Brahman sage Jabali, Vasistha pleaded with Sri Rama in the following words, “Jabali only argued for a purpose, he does not mean it, he wanted to find out if you were somewhat incautious and if he could persuade you to go back to the kingdom, Jabali knew why he spoke to you the way he spoke, his words were intended to persuade you to revoke your vow, to get consecrated and go back as the king of Ayodhya. The Lord of the world Sri Rama, now hear from me how this world began. First there was nothing besides water, the earth was evolved later, and then the self born Brahma and the Gods made their existence. Appearing as the divine Boar, Brahma (who is identified with Vishnu) lifted the earth out of the water into which it had disappeared and in conjunction with his son Marichi and others evolved the whole universe. The lineage of this illustrious family is; Marichi, Kasyap, Vivasvat, Manu (gave life to mortals), Ikshvaku (first of Ayodhya kings and pride of the dynasty), Kukshi, Vikukshi, Vana (lord of might), Anaranya, Prithu, Trisanku (possessed of great majesty, who due to the unfailing vow of Viswamitra bodily ascended to heaven) Dhundhumara, Yuvanaswa, Mandata, Susandhi, Dhruvasandhi, Bharata (a destroyer of foes), Asita, Sagara (meaning poison), Asamanja, Ansuman, Dilipa, Bhagiratha, Kakutstha, Raghu (after whom his descendants were known as Raghavas, the scions of Raghu), Pravrddha (also called Purusadaka meaning ogre or man-eater), Kalmashapada, Shankhan, Sudarshan, Agnivarna, Sighraga, Maru, Prasusruva, Ambarisha, Nabhaga, Aja, Dasaratha. Dasaratha whose virtuous life was untainted, his eldest son are you, the famous Sri Rama. For ever in the Ikshvaku race, the eldest son takes the place of his father as lord and is sanctified as the king. This rule the Ragus kept and you must not spurn the offer, Dasaratha’s throne is yours, it is justly yours accept the same and cast a benign look on Ayodhya. Like your illustrious father rule the earth abounding in precious wealth and comprising several dominions.”

Sri Rama counsels Bharata: From Sri Rama’s point of view it is not a matter of succession, it is to save the reputation of his father, and he must vindicate his father’s dignity and ensure his passage into heaven. Vasistha was the preceptor to all in the Ikshvaku family, he says to Sri Rama, “Admiration must ever be bestowed on the father, mother and the holy guide, the guru; you should love and respect all the three. I have been the revered guide to your father and you as well; doing my bidding you will not be transgressing the path of virtue. You must not fall short in your obligation towards your aged mother; please do not spurn your virtuous mothers appeal; yield to Bharata’s earnest supplication, here are your subjects, kinsmen and others seeking you to discharge your duties to them, by heeding their call you will not be overstepping your bounds, for you are aligned closely to the path of truthfulness, nerve and piety.” Sri Rama in engaging words says, “No son can ever adequately repay all that he receives from his father and mother, I will not fail to do that which my father bade me to do.” Hearing Sri Rama’s firm resolve, Bharata commanded Sumantra to spread blades of Kusa grass, and he says, “Since my brother is not willing to yield to me, I will apply moral process of coercion, I refuse to eat or sleep and will lie down on the sacred grass until my brother yields.” Finding Sumantra seeking affirmative nod from Sri Rama for compliance and not responsive to his command to fetch the sacred grass, Bharata himself fetched the grass and placed them there and began his act of blockade. Sri Rama responds to Bharata’s action saying, “What have I done Bharata, you are besieging me, this is quite wrong, such actions are not in the province of the warrior class, such measures are only undertaken by Brahmans who engage in such coercive measures, to seek redress to the wrongs meted out to them. Quit this fearful vow, O! Lord of men get yourself consecrated proceed to the fair and supreme city of Ayodhya and resume the kingly duties.” Finding that Sri Rama has disapproved of his course of action, Bharata after casting an eager look all round, appealed to all the people who had come with him from Ayodhya, “O! You all join me and plead with my elder brother, have a word with him, see how obstinate he is.” Now the citizens responded in unison, “Sri Rama is well known to all of us, he is faithful to his father’s decree, and our words will not turn him from his vow.” Hearing this Sri Rama tells Bharata, “heed your virtuous friends, they view the concept of duty clear headed. To efface your sinful actions touch water with your hands, and touch me,” Bharata complied and sipped the purifying water, and once again he began, “Listen all, I never sought sovereignty of my father, nor did I instruct my mother to do it on my behalf nor do I approve of Sri Rama’s exile. If as you (Sri Rama) says one son is to be the king and another son to be hermit I will be a hermit, you go and be the king of Ayodhya.” The righteous and wonder stirred, Sri Rama listened to the faithful speech of Bharata and said, “Never shall my father’s promise be annulled by me or Bharata, standing on our father’s promise I have come to the forest with Sita and Lakshmana. Our father had laid a command on you and me, while my part requires me to go to the forest, your part requires you to be in the kingdom. Our father made a great promise to Kaikeyi and there he is in debt to her, from that he must be redeemed, you must do this for my sake, protect your father and please your mother. It is impossible that I should neglect my father’s promise and acquit our father of the charge of falsehood by ruling over Ayodhya.”

The sandals: The sages, saints and Rishis came there to view the thrilling conversation between the two peerless brothers; the sages and saints made their presence invisible, while the presence of the Rishis was visible; they praised them saying, “The two princes, Sri Rama and Bharata are noble, they tread the path of virtue, we yearn to hear this conversation again and again.’ The Rishis for their part craved to see the extermination of the ten headed monster Ravana; in one voice they exhorted Bharata to accept the advice of Sri Rama. They counseled Bharata, ‘we desire for the sake of your respected father you accept the advice of your brother, we wish to see Sri Rama released eternally from all obligations to his father; by his correct actions, Sri Rama has saved his father, emperor Dasaratha from going to hell. Dasaratha is in heaven because of the tremendous moral obligation that he owed to Kaikeyi, that arduous commitment has been paid in full by Sri Rama, and Dasaratha now has his place in heaven. Should Sri Rama go back to Ayodhya in response to the persistent pleas of yours, the old king Dasaratha will go to hell’ after saying so the sages returned to their dwellings. Trembling Bharata spoke in suppliant words to Sri Rama, “Here are all the people, our relations, friends, poor subjects, ministers; they all want you and you alone to be king. Sri Rama this kingdom is yours; you accept this kingdom as yours.” Sri Rama pleased to hear Bharata’s submission replies, “Dear Bharata you have shown extraordinary humility and thus you have proved to me your complete competence to govern this kingdom. If you have any doubts you have plenty of people, old ministers, people who have already governed the parts of the kingdom, to advise you, take their advice. If you still think that there is hope of my returning, dismiss that thought from your mind. Unnatural things may happen; things may part from their innate attributes, not I; I shall not violate the plighted word of my father. You forget your mothers misdeeds and treat her as a mother should be treated, don’t remember it against her, don’t let it rankle in your mind; behave to her as an ordinary son should behave to his mother. This is Sita’s and mine earnest prayer to you”. Sri Rama spoke emotionally shedding tears and bade adieu to Bharata. Bharata in humble reverence took out the sandals and said, “Here are the sandals embellished with gold; please stand once on these sandals and get down surely these sandals will supply the needs and ensure the safety of men.” Sri Rama placed his feet on the sandals and immediately gave the sandals to Bharata. Bharata took home the sandals; he regarded the sandals as Sri Rama, and drew from the sandals inspiration and moral authority from time to time. Bharata was deriving his power to govern, his courage, his wisdom, his all round vigilance, from the sandals. Having delegated the ruler-ship to the sandals Bharata at once addressed to Sri Rama, “O scorcher of the enemies I would live only on fruits and roots, wearing matted locks on my head and wear bark of trees on my body, I will be dwelling outside the city of Ayodhya, yearning for your return. If you do not return after completing your exile the day following the fourteen years I for my part will enter the fire finally.” Born to enhance the glories of his race Sri Rama bade adieu to his brothers, counselors and peers with love and tender grace. No queen could however bid adieu to darling Sri Rama, for they were choked with sobs and sigh, and also Sri Rama entered his cottage with tears flooded eyes.

Bharata returns homewards with the sandals: Triumphant and joyous Bharata placed the wooden sandals on his head; with the eminent sages Vasistha, Vamadeva and Jabali in the forefront, their face turned eastward they commenced their homeward journey. They saw the splendid and enchanting view of Chitrakoot Mountains ornamented with varied minerals, and soon they saw and reached the sage Bharadwaja’s hermitage. Bharata bowed in reverence at the feet of Bharadwaja, joyous sage Bharadwaja filled with delight on seeing Bharata, enquired, “Did you meet Sri Rama, and was your purpose accomplished?” Righteous Bharata replied, “Along with the holy Guide (Guru) Vasistha I sought Sri Rama to return to Ayodhya”, Sri Rama answered Saint Vasistha, “I will be true to my vow, I uphold the pledge of my father given to Kaikeyi, which was to the effect that I would remain in exile for the period of fourteen years and my promise shall remain in force.” Sage Vasistha addressed the following words of great importance to Sri Rama, “please gift these wooden sandals decked in gold to Bharata, these sandals when consecrated in Ayodhya, will ensure our welfare and secure our bliss” Sri Rama promptly obeyed and after that the high souled Sri Rama went inside his cottage and I turned homeward towards Ayodhya. This news from Bharata gladdened Sage Bharadwaja he said, “You the sons of Dasaratha are all of noble conduct fondly devoted to virtues you have freed your celebrated father Dasaratha, from all debts.” Taking leave of the saint Bharadwaja, Bharata along with brother Shatrugna, the holy sages, kinsmen and all started homewards to Ayodhya. Having crossed the divine river Yamuna, they once more beheld the river Ganga carrying the holy waters. Seeing vividly Ayodhya once more, stricken with agony Bharata spoke to Sumantra, “Glorious Ayodhya now looks dark, sad, forlorn, bereft of joy and beauty, the city presents a picture seemingly mourning in silent grief”.

Desolate Ayodhya greets Bharata: Illustrious Bharata, when he entered Ayodhya, he was troubled by cats and owls moving without restraint, every house in that prosperous town presented a dark and lifeless look, the streets were strewn with waste; were lusterless; it no more had the lovely look of the past, instead it now presented a mournful and disconsolate look. There was no sound of the music neither of the minstrels nor of the lyre nor lute, also conspicuous was the absence of the fragrance of the sandals, aloe and of the flowers. Sorely distressed on Sri Rama having departed to the forests young men no longer had the delight nor the relish for excursions, the former magnificence of this city had ceased. Thinking of the day when Ayodhya regains its past sheen and of the day Sri Rama returns after his period of exile; Bharata entered his father’s abode, it presented a picture of a deserted den, and further moving on to the ladies bower only gloom and dreary thoughts made him shed torrents of tears. Disconsolate Bharata spoke to the charioteer minister Sumantra, “Ayodhya is depressing, shorn of its elegance, devoid of joy, is now wearing a wretched, noiseless and a gloomy look.”

Reign from Nandigram: After his return to Ayodhya inconsolable Bharata lodged each of his widowed mothers in their respective bower, he addressed his holy guides the words, “I am overwhelmed with grief, sadly my father the king is dead and the rightful inheritor of this realm, my brother Sri Rama is in exile, my holy guides this day I bid adieu to all of you. I proceed to Nandigram in the attire of a hermit; I shall wait there till the reigns of this kingdom are restored to its rightful lord.” Sage Vasistha, Vamadeva and others spoke in reply, “You are a true and faithful friend nothing can move your heart from the path of virtue, only you can articulate such an impressive statement.” Enthused by these words Bharata along with Shatrugna quickly paid obeisance to each and every queen; with the assistance of Sumantra, he got the chariot ready for the journey to Nandigram; he quickly mounted the chariot placing on his head the pair of wooden sandals. The chariot was preceded by a long group of Brahmans led by sage Vasistha, and was followed by the army and other citizens, who were not summoned by Bharata. Getting down from the royal car, on reaching Nandigram, Bharata spoke to the people around him, “I was given the lordship of this kingdom by my brother, Sri Rama, without delay bring the canopy to provide reverential shelter to these sandals which are to be held with care and piety, these sandals will establish righteousness in the kingdom, they will supply our needs and security. Till the return of Sri Rama from exile I will carry the watchful task of governing this kingdom in trust for him. Once Sri Rama return returns from his exile, people will gladly join me in welcoming him, I will myself restore these sandals to his feet, I will serve my elder brother once more, finally when Sri Rama begins his reign of the kingdom, I will be cleansed of all my sins.” Thus spoke distressed Bharata, attired in the guise of a hermit and sporting matted hair, he installed upon the royal seat the sandals of his brother’s feet; he administered the state with all care deriving his authority, inspiration and power from the sandals. In all matters of the state Bharata first sought the counsel from the royal sandals, whatever valuable gift was offered to the state they were first submitted to the royal sandals.

The apparition of Khara and the Hermits words to Sri Rama: After Bharata’s departure to Ayodhya, Sri Rama noticed anxiety accompanied by disquiet and melancholic dread amongst the ascetics. Sri Rama reverentially submitted to the principal saint; “O venerated sage, can anything that I have done displeased you or your devotees, or Lakshmana by his actions offended you with some unseemly deed, or is Sita’s lack of reverence the cause of the sad and altered looks on your face.” One elderly sage his frame withered, his every limb trembling, his bearing abounding in radiance acquired through long years of dreary penance, speaking in a quaking voice for the rest of the hermits said, “There has been no aberration on the part of Videhan princess, whose gentle nature is continually dedicated to righteousness, but the peril from the Raksasas to the ascetics has increased owing to your encouraging attitude to us. Khara of gigantic frame, the brother of the fiend Ravana, is brutal, haughty, arrogant, sinful, hideous and of foul shape, a man-eater, vexes us with his wild rage and terrifies our righteous eyes. We the dwellers of this hermitage are resistless to his cruel deeds are to endure his insult and scorns. Full of evil thoughts the roving monsters with their secret might fling away our ladle, extinguish the holy fire, and trample on the water urn. Troubled by this monster we seek to leave this place and find a new abode before he inflicts on us bodily violence. Sri Rama you are mighty, yet we beseech you to be wise and flee with us for this place is full of peril with each passing day,” saying so the saints departed. Sri Rama bade goodbye to every saint; paid his reverence to each of the sages by bending low and he for his part did not stray from the grove that the saints fled.

Anasuya’s counsel to Sita: (Anasuya literally means free from jealousy.) After the departure of the hermits Sri Rama felt the place was bleak, the lingering painful memory of faithful Bharata, his dear mothers and the townsmen hurt him; also he felt the place had been violated by the dung of the animals that had come with Bharata’s army. He decided to move to a new place along with his spouse and Lakshmana; he left the enchanting Chitrakoot Mountains and reached the chaste retreat of the sage Atri, there he paid his reverence at the holy feet of the sage. The saint welcomed the noble prince as a fond father welcomes his son, in comforting words he welcomed glorious Lakshmana and Sita too. The foremost of the sages Atri then called his venerable spouse Anasuya by name, told her; “I request with friendly grace receive the Vidhehan princess” To Sri Rama the sage Atri spoke of his spouse thus, “She is like a mother to you, she is revered by all living beings, this votaress spent over ten thousand years on stern vows, when drought consumed this plain for ten long years, she by the power of her asceticism made this land grow roots and fruits; she ordered River Ganga to flow close to my hermitage. When the saint Mandavya had ordained hermitess Sandili, (a friend of Anasuya), that she would be widowed within the next ten days, Anasuya pronounced a counter curse saying that there would be no dawn any more, alarmed at this Gods approached Anasuya, who by her asceticism converted ten nights into one and saved Sandili from widowhood. Sri Rama let your Vidhehan spouse approach this eminent aged hermitess with reverence; she is always of a compassionate mind and is worthy of reverence by all created beings.” Sri Rama said to his spouse Sita, “This utterance of the sage has been heard by you, approach the saintly votaress who has done mighty things and has won glory in this world.” Hearing Sri Rama’s exhortation, Sita came up to the venerable Anasuya with suppliant hands raised in reverence, inquired of her health told her, her name. Anasuya addressed Sita, “You are blessed with a prosperous fate, and your thoughts are anchored to virtue, giving up wealth pomp and comforts you chose to follow Sri Rama to the woods. I do not see for a woman an ally superior to the husband more capable of yielding one’s desired object at all places like the enduring produce of one’s austerities. Great prosperity attends on those women who hold their husbands dear, regardless of his prosperous or adverse fate. Neither is the penance, nor stern austere vows greater than the joy of serving the husband. Women who are led by idle fancy or are swayed by evil thoughts or who make their husband obey their command lose their fame, virtue; they are enslaved by sin and folly; they tread unholy paths. But those who are good and true like you will rise to the mansions in the blissful skies. Keep yourself free from the taint of sin, be true to your lord you will for your due devotion earn fame and merit for your actions.

Dialogue between Sita and Anasuya: Grateful to Anasuya for her counsel, Sita made her reply to Anasuya in soft tones, “It is also known to me as a matron, I should show due reverence to my lord even if he were to be mean, base, un-honored and ungraceful, I should never leave him. Having said that my lord shines in the exalted virtues, he is a lofty soul, compassionate, of righteous mind, is truthful to his love, has all his senses under control, is both a father and mother to me. He shows son like reverence to all his mothers, including Kaikeyi, who at the present moment has lost the affection of her Lord. Impressed in my mind is the counsel on this matter tendered to me at the time of my departure to the fearful woods; of the mother of my Lord, Kausalya, again the counsel of my mother when before the sacred fire Sri Rama took my hands in his (at the time of my marriage), is rooted in my heart; all those knowledge are renewed in my mind by your words of wisdom. No greater penance is recommended to a matron other than the service to her husband; as illustrations we have Savitri, Rohini the moon’s dear queen who attained glory for having obeyed their lord, for the very same virtues you have in your possession mansion in the heavens; besides many a faithful wife are glorified for pure matronly love.” Saintly Anasuya kissed Sita’s head, bestowed her blessings on Sita and sought to grant any boon that Sita may choose; Sita in reply said with a gentle smile on her lips, “Everything stands accomplished by your holiness Grace alone, there is nothing for me to seek.” Highly gratified Anasuya said, “I shall make your satisfaction profitable by giving you wonderful precious fabrics to wear, rich and rare gems to ornament your limbs, cosmetics, precious unguent (balsam) when applied confers lasting radiance to your frame.” Accepting the gifts showered on her by saintly Anasuya, Sita for her part reverently sat at the former’s feet. Anasuya sought to hear in extenso the marriage of Sita with Sri Rama. Sita proceeded to narrate in this manner; “One morning with his ploughshare the childless King Janaka who is devoted to the path of virtue cleft the earth, he found me a babe besmeared with dust, holding me he cried “My daughter she is,” a superhuman voice it is said was also heard then saying ‘So be it, O protector of men! She will be your daughter from the moral point of view.’ I was given over to the senior most queens and was brought up with motherly affection. As I came of marriageable age, my father, the monarch, though a compeer of Indra, suffered indignity at the hands of suitors; (men high and low), the emperor feeling distressed, with anxious thoughts he scanned at length a bridegroom to match me. Clueless and plunged in a sea of anxiety and knowing me as not emerged from a mother’s womb, he could not find for me an appropriate match. As he was constantly reflecting thus, an idea stuck to his mind, he said there is in the palace an excellent bow, (capable of subduing the enemy), and also a pair of quivers containing an inexhaustible store of arrows bestowed on the forbear of King Janaka, by the high souled Varuna. He said, according to the moral code prescribed for the Kshatriya’s “I shall make an arrangement such that Sita selects a match for her of her own free will, in an assembly of suitors comprising lords of many a region. The suitor whoever can manage to bend, lift, and string this wondrous bow, shall be the husband of my Sita. The suitors viewed the bow of great size with hopeless eyes and with humbled hearts they withdrew and bade adieu to my father. A long time thereafter sage Viswamitra came along with Sri Rama and Lakshmana to witness a sacrifice performed by my father, after being duly entertained Sage Viswamitra on that occasion said to my father “Sons of royal Dasaratha, Sri Rama and Lakshmana long to see the tough bow.” Immediately the marvelous bow was brought to their presence; Sri Rama gazed on that bow for a moment, he quickly raised the bow to notch a string, drew the cord with mighty force, there followed a thunderous crash, an awful sound, for the bow under the matchless strain, snapped into two beneath Sri Rama’s arms. My father true to his promise was ready at that very moment to offer me in marriage to Sri Rama. The prince refused to accept the offer straight away and instead sought to know his father’s mind in the matter. My father sought the aged emperor of Ayodhya, who arrived soon thereafter and consented for my marriage with Sri Rama and my sister Urmila’s marriage with Lakshmana. Thus, Lord Rama the heroic, the exalted and the bravest whom I truly love won me as his bride."

Off to the Dandaka forests: The virtuous Anasuya heard with delight the clear, distinct, sweet toned pleasant and charming tale from Sita, for her part the hermitess mentioning sunset bade good night to Sita. Anasuya sought Sita to put on the garments and ornaments, gifted by her, clad in the celestial robes and adorned with heavenly jewels Sita shone like a delightful Goddess. Permitted by the hermitess, Sita sought her lord and narrated to him of the fond affection showered on her, the celestial garland, the divine robes and the ornaments gifted to her by Anasuya. Sri Rama and Lakshmana were filled with pride on Sita’s attainments which ordinary mortals can scarcely gain. Having spent the night at the hermitage, on the morning the trio went to bid adieu to every saint living in the vicinity. The seers cautioned the them on the dangers which forest life awaits them, in particular from the ogres and the savage beasts that devour human blood and flesh. The saints proceeded to show the path to the Dandaka forests, addressed and blessed by the auspicious prayers of the saintly crowd Sri Rama Lakshmana and Sita hied to the Dandaka forest.

Thus ends the Ayodha Kanda