AyodhyaKandam Summary
Valmiki Ramayana Olympiad prep
After surviving 200 questions from Balakandam, attempting carving out mini stories for fitting the 225 questions from Ayodhyakandam.
1. Dasaratha’s desire to crown Rama
2. Kaikayi’s plot3.1 Rama breaks the news to Kaushalya.. Lakshmana’s Anger [S17–21]
3.2 Kaushalya wants to join Rama [S24]
3.3 Sita begs to join [S26 — S30]
3.4 Acquiring weapons. Distributing wealth to scholars [S31–33]
3.5 Wail of Dasaratha & Koushalya. Sumitra consoles
3.6 Old Brahmins accompany till Tamasa
3.7 Cry of Ayodhya’s women4. Rama reaches Ganga
5. Guha, the chieftan of hunters
6. Rama’s mind goes back to Ayodhya.
7. Bharadwaja Ashrama & Chitrakoota
8. Sumantra reaches Ayodhya. Curse & Death of Dasaratha
9. Bharata refuses to Rule.
10. Encounters in the Dandaka Forest
Got to know about this amazing search engine that accepts word tokens. sanskritsahitya.com.
Chapter 0: General
Ayodhya Kanda of the Valmiki Ramayana, the second book, comprises 119 verses.
Bharata set out for his maternal uncle Yudhajit’s house. He took with him the sinless Satrughna who was नित्यशत्रुघ्न destroyer of enemies.. Dasaratha loved all his four mighty sons चत्वार: पुरुषर्षभा: like parts of his body. Among them, the brilliant Rama was a source of delight तेषामपि महातेजा रामो रतिकरःपितुः..
Inorder to destroy Ravana. Visnu was born in the mortal world as Ramaअर्थितो मानुषे लोके जज्ञे विष्णुस्सनातनः
बुद्धिमान्मधुराभाषी पूर्वभाषी प्रियंवदः.. Wise and softspoken, he was a conversation starter. He honoured elders by going forward to them. He loved his subjects as much as his subjects loved him.
He was kindhearted, noble, spoke the truth, and compassionate to the distressed, coolheaded and righteous.
A learned man, he had no liking for speaking against others. But in debates his voice and oratory was comparable to Brihaspati’s. He was young, eloquent, healthy and free from disease. He was born a sage in this world. He knew the true nature of dharma, artha and kama. With a sharp memory, he was a genius.
He was the best among those skilled in archery in this world धनुर्वेदविदां श्रेष्ठो लोके.. In prowess he is equal to Yama and Indra. He was thoroughly knowledgeable about the sciences, economics, fine arts like Gandharvas, and was a master of archery.
Chapter 1: Dasaratha’s desire to crown Rama
Dasaratha addressed the entire assembly of invitees in a deep and majestic voice...“My body has attained old age after ruling the entire world under the shade of royal white parasol. I am weary of carrying on the heavy burden of duty, it can be shouldered by those who have royal qualities.”
He praises Rama in the assembly.. प्रियवादी च भूतानां सत्यवादी च राघवः । बुद्ध्या बृहस्पतेस्तुल्यो वीर्येणापि शचीपतेः। And they unanimously agree for crowning Rama.
Later, Dasaratha meets Rama and counsels:
O Rama after a long life I have grown old. I have enjoyed all the pleasures I desired. राम वृद्धोऽस्मि दीर्घायुर्भुक्ता भोगा मयेप्सिताः…Today all the subjects expresed their desire to see you as their king. But there are bad omens.. I shall install you heir apparent tomorrow itself. Therefore, you and Sita should fast tonight and sleep on a bed of darbha or kusha grass with self-restraint. Alert your friends to protect you from all sides today onwards. While Bharata is away from the city, the time is favourable for your installation.”
“This auspicious month of Chaitra is sacred with its blossoming groves.”
“O dear Rama! As you have endeared yourself to these subjects with your virtues, you shall be throned when Pushya star is in conjunion with the Moon.”
“Gentle by nature, you are gifted with virtues. O son, even though virtuous, I shall offer you counsel for your good out of affection for you.
“With humility, always keep your senses under control. Keep off all violations arising out of lust and anger. कामक्रोधसमुत्थानि त्यजेथा व्यसनानि च”
Rama tells Lakshmana.. “O Lakshmana rule this earth together with me. This royal fortune also accrues to you, for you are my second innermost self. लक्ष्मणेमां मया सार्धं प्रशाधि त्वं वसुंधराम्
Rama then visits Kaushalya who was deep in meditation and pranayama and informs her of the news.
Later, Dasaratha instructs VasisTa, who was in charge of the ceremony to instruct Rama. ‘O TapoDhana! Go to Rama engaged in strict observance of vows, and advise him along with Sita, my daughter-in-law to undertake fast for securing prosperity, fame and kingdom. गच्छोपवासं काकुत्स्थं कारयाद्य तपोधन..”
VasisTa tells Rama.. “Your father, king Dasaratha, will be pleased to coronate you early tomorrow morning as Nahusa did to his son Yayati. पिता दशरथः प्रीत्या ययातिं नहुषो यथा ॥”
Chapter 2 -Kaikayi’s Plot [S7 to S16]
On seeing Kaushlya generously distribute the gifts, and on seeing the celebrations in Ayodhya, Manthara enquires with a maid and learns the reason.
The evil and crafty hunchback Manthara then stormed to Kaikayi. “O senseless one, why are you lying down on the couch? Why don’t you realise that you are floating in a sea of perils. Though you appear to be your husband’s darling, in reality he dislikes you. O queen, your end is approaching, and it has no end and it is overwhelming.”
“That evilminded Dasaratha, having sent Bharata away to your relations house, is going to install Rama in the kingdom at dawn tomorrow.”
“That appropriate time has come now. Act quickly for your own wellbeing. Save yourself, your son and me too. Your joy is my joy.. Your downfall is my downfall. You know nothing of politics”
~
Filled with immense joy and wonder at the news, Kaikeyi gifted a beautiful ornament to that hunchback. “O Manthara, the news you have brought me is exceedingly pleasant. What more can I do for you? I do not see any distinction between Rama and Bharata as such. रामे वा भरते वाऽहं विशेषं नोपलक्षये..”
“After a hundred years of Rama’s rule, Bharata will get the kingdom of his ancestors. भरतश्चापि रामस्य ध्रुवं वर्षशतात्परम्… As Bharatha is to be cherished by me, much more so indeed is Raghava. For he attends on me with greater devotion then he does on Kausalya.कौसल्यातोऽतिरिक्तं च स तु शुश्रूषते हि माम्”
Manthara further argues.. “Rama will banish Bharata from the country or send him to the other world. This is certain. Bharata has been sent by you right from his childhood to his maternal uncle’s house. Nearness creates friendship. Lakshmana follows Rama, and Shatrugna follows Bharata”
~
Kaikayi is instigated. “Today I shall at once banish Rama from here into the forest. अद्य राममितः क्षिप्रं वनं प्रस्थापयाम्यहम्”
~
Manthara prods.. “O Kaikeyi, what a joy.. I shall now tell you a plan.. how your son Bharata alone will secure the kingdom. Listen to me”
“O queen, during the war between gods and asuras, your husband went with to render assistance to Indra taking you along with him. He set off in the southern direction of Dandaka forest to a renowned city called Vaijayanta where asura Timidhvaja lived. वैजयन्तमिति ख्यातं पुरं यत्र तिमिध्वजः… That mighty asura Sambara challenged Indra to a battle. स शम्बर इति ख्यातः शतमायो महासुरः”
“There in that great battle the mightyarmed king Dasaratha lay wounded. O queen, you had protected your husband by carrying him away from the battlefield when he lost his consciousness. Another time too you saved him when he lay wounded. Ask your husband for those two boons namely consecration of Bharata, and banishment of Rama for fourteen years. तौ वरौ याच भर्तारं भरतस्याभिषेचनम् …प्रव्राजनं च रामस्य त्वं वर्षाणि चतुर्दश”
“O Kaikeyi, You are his favorite wife.. recognise the power of your beauty.. The king will forsake his life for you.. make him recollect the two boons he had granted you in the war.. settle for nothing less.. रामं प्रव्राजयारण्ये नव वर्षाणि पञ्च च । Rama’s exile for 14 years and coronation of Bharata..”
~
All the garlands and ornaments she scattered. Tightly fastening her hair into a single braid and wearing soiled clothes, she lay down in the chamber of wrath in a lifeless state..
Stuck by the arrows of kaamadeva, and Dasaratha not aware of the evil designs, enters her chamber in desire of pleasure and is consumed by grief seeing his dear wife in this state.
“Don’t you know there exists for me no woman dearer than you, and no man other than Rama who is the best among men. O Kaikeyi, in the name of Rama without seeing whom I, for sure, cannot live a momment, I swear I will fulfil your desire. What brings you this agony?”
She reminds him of the two boons. “Consigned to the Dandaka forest for fourteen years, clad in bark and deer skin, and wearing matted hair, Rama shall live like an ascetic. नव पञ्च च वर्षाणि दण्डकारण्यमाश्रितः.. Let Bharata be prince regent without any rivals. This is my great desire. Rama’s departure to the forest today itself.”
~
Dasaratha faints and later gaining consciousness speaks with fire in his eyes.. ‘ Is this a dream? Or a hallucination of the mind? Or some malady of my mind’? “ What wrong has been done to you by Rama or by me? “
“When Rama is treating you in the same way as his mother, why are you bent upon harming only him? सदा ते जननी तुल्यां वृत्तिं वहति राघवः? Rama treats you better than Bharata. Then why are you doing this to Rama? रामो हि भरताद्भूयस्तव शुश्रूषते सदा..”
“Rama is a hero who wins over the people by his truthfulness, the poor by charity, the Gurus by service, and the enemies in the battle by the power of his bow.. सत्येन लोकान् जयति, दीनान् दानेन राघवः.. गुरूञ्छुश्रूषया, वीरो धनुषा युधि शात्रवान्”
“The world can exist without the sun, a crop without water. But life cannot continue in my body, without Rama. न तु रामं विना देहे तिष्ठेत्तु मम जीवितम्”
Kaikayi insists.. “Oh, King! You having granted boons indeed today, now you talk in another way, creating blemish on other kings. When in dispute.. the king Shibi gave away his own flesh to the bird.. शैब्यः श्येनकपोतीये स्वमांसं पक्षिते ददौ”
Chapter 3.1: Rama breaks the news to Kaushalya.. Lakshmana’s Anger [S17–21]
Rama hears from Kaikeyi about the boons promised by Dasaratha, and consents to leave for the forest. Dasaratha wails and swoons on the golden couch after seeing this.. मूर्छितो न्यपतत्तस्मिन्पर्यङ्के हेमभूषिते..
Rama entered his mother’s residence who was rather emaciated, to break the unpleasant news.
Kaushalya wails in pain.. “ how can I look at Kaikeyi’s face who is always harsh and in temper? Treating me as an equal or inferior to the attendants of Kaikeyi, and making me always dependent, my husband has greatly suppressed me. How can I bear the insults now? Surely my still heart is made of iron. It neither bursts nor breaks down on the ground.”
Lakshmana — Rama
Hearing this, Lakshmana remarks these befitting timely words.. उवाच लक्ष्मणो दीनस्तत्कालसदृशं वचः .. “ I do not like that Rama should go to the forest yielding to the words of a woman, and renouncing the welfare of the kingdom. त्यक्त्वा राज्यश्रियं गच्छेत्स्त्रिया वाक्यवशं गतः ॥.. The king has a perverse nature.. He is aged and consumed by carnal pleasures.”
“I shall slay all of them who support Bharata. If the whole of Ayodhya stands against you I shall depopulate it with my sharp arrows. निर्मनुष्यामिमां सर्वामयोध्यां मनुजर्षभ..” “O Mother.. With my valor, I shall eliminate your sorrow, Like the rising Sun dispelling darkness.. हरामि वीर्याद्दुःखं ते तमः सूर्य इवोदितः”
Rama says.. “I do not have the power to transgress the orders of my father. नास्ति शक्तिः पितुर्वाक्यं समतिक्रमितुं मम.. Allow me to go. Like my ancestors, I will follow the words of my father.. The sons of Sagara while excavating the earth by the order of their father, met a terrible death. खनद्भिः सागरैर्भूतिमवाप्तः सुमहान्वधः.. Parasurama, son of Jamadagni himself in obedience to the words of his father, decapitated his mother Renuka in the forest with an axe. जामद्ग्न्येन रामेण रेणुका जननी स्वयम्… Many have heeded to father’s words. Let me do it too. पितुर्हि वचनं कुर्वन्न कश्चिन्नाम हीयते.. धर्मो हि परमो लोके धर्मे सत्यं प्रतिष्ठितम्.. Dharma is absolute.. Truth resides in Dharma.”
Rama held his composure and approached his beloved Lakshmana who was miserable with his mental agony, who was hissing like a king cobra.. श्वसन्तमिव नागेन्द्रं रोषविस्फारितेक्षणम्. Rama says it is the work of destiny vidhi. “If this thought and my misfortune were not caused in Kaikeyi by destiny, how could she muster such determination to inflict pain on me? कैकेय्याः प्रतिपत्तिर्हि कथं स्यान्मम पीडने। यदि भावो न दैवोऽयं कृतान्तविहितो भवेत्।।2.22.16।।”
Lakshmana is enraged. “Why to succumb to the passion of those two parents? Weaklings alone depend on destiny. The valiant with of selfrespect will not accept it. विक्लबो वीर्यहीनो यस्स दैवमनुवर्तते.”
Says Rama.. “Even rishis with severe austerities are tormented by destiny.. ऋषयोऽपि उग्रतपसः दैवेन अभिप्रपीडिताः.. Therefore, be free from grief like me and revoke all the arrangements made for the ceremony immediately.”
“what is the use of these pots of holy water which are the king’s property? राजद्रव्यमयेन एतेन मम किम्? The water drawn with my own hands will be made use of for my religious bath..
Lakshmana is enraged again.. “Only after ruling the subjects for a thousand years, then the rajarishis retired in the forests.. पूर्वं राजर्षिवृत्त्या हि वनवासो विधीयते.. O Lord, today you shall see the power of my glorious weapons in depriving the king (Dasaratha) of his authority.अद्य मेऽस्त्रप्रभावस्य प्रभावः प्रभविष्यति।”
AK Chapter 3.2: Kaushalya wants to join Rama [S24–25]
24 -Kausalya insists on Rama to take her along with him to the forest. Rama tells — “The king was deceived by Kaikeyi. If you also desert him after I have gone to the forest, surely he will not live. As long as the king, my father, the lord of the earth, a descendant of Kakutshta lives, you shall serve him.” A pati-vrata wife shall obtain heaven by serving her husband.. भर्तु श्शुश्रूषया नारी लभते स्वर्गमुत्तमम्. Eat a light meal. Live a life of moderation.”
“Bharata, who is virtuous and speaks pleasantly to all beings will surely remain obedient to you. भरतश्चापि धर्मात्मा सर्वभूतप्रियंवदः”
At these words of Rama, the auspicious looking Kausalya agrees to stay back. एवमुक्ता तु रामेण कौशल्या शुभदर्शना…
After seeing him determined to go with all his awareness तथा हि रामं वनवासनिश्चितं समीक्ष्य देवी परमेण चेतसा Kaushalya braced herself up to perform ceremonies in the interest of Rama’s wellbeing. स्वस्त्ययनाभिकाङ्क्षिणी बभूव
25: Kaushalya does the achamanam ceremony.. जलम् पस्पृश्य शुचिः रामस्य मङ्गलानि चकार. She gives him blessings aashee.. “May Smriti, Dhriti and Dharma always guard you. May mountains, seas, lord Varuna, heaven, space, and earth and also all rivers, all stars and planets, day, night, dawn and dusk protect you. Let there be no fear from rakshasas. May monkeys, scorpions, mosquitoes, reptiles and insects not trouble you. May the wild animals do you no harm, O my dear son”
Chapter 3.3: Sita begs to join [S26 — S30]
26: Meanwhile, Sita is unaware of the developments and awaits for Rama’s arrival. Seeing him in agony शोकसन्तप्तं, she starts shivering.. He breaks the news.. “I have to leave for the desolate Dandaka forest right away. Take care of my father and the mothers. Take care of Bharata and Shatrugna as your brothers.”
“Now Bharata is the king of the country and head of the family. Therefore, you should never do anything disagreeable to him.
“You should never praise me in the presence of Bharata because intellectuals cannot tolerate others being praised before them. बुद्धियुक्ता हि पुरुषा न सहन्ते परस्तवम्. You must stay here and serve them well. Treat them like your sons.”
“Kings are gratified if they are served with zeal and good conduct. If the contrary happens, they get provoked. Kings abandon even their own sons born out of their loins if they are harmful, and kings receive capable people even if they are strangers. औरसानपि पुत्रान्हि त्यजन्त्यहितकारिणः”
28: When Vaidehi heard this, she was very angry out of her love for Rama. प्रणयादेव संक्रुद्धा..Says she.. “A father, mother, brother, son or daughter-in-law experiences merits of their past work. A wife alone shares the destiny of her husband. भर्तुर्भाग्यं तु भार्यैका प्राप्नोति.. I am also therefore, ordered to dwell in the forest. I have been so instructed by my parents about diverse duties in all stages of life. I shall dwell as happily in the forest as I did in my father’s abode. सुखं वने निवत्स्यामि यथैव भवने पितुः..
Says Rama.. “O Sita, Give up the desire to live in the forest,Living in the dreary jungle has many hardships it is said.. बहुदोषं हि कान्तारं वनमित्यभिधीयते”
29: Says Sita.. “O Rama! If I am in your company, even the lord of the gods, Indra with all his might will not be able to hurt me. न हि मां त्वत्समीपस्थामपि शक्नोतिराघव। सुराणामीश्वर श्शक्रः प्रधर्षयितुमोजसा।।.. You have illustrated that a woman cannot live without her husband.. पतिहीना तु या नारी न सा शक्ष्यति जीवितुम् ।”
30.. Further enraged, she says.. “While accepting you as son-in-law, did my father ever think that you are a weakling, a woman in the guise of a man? राम जामातरं प्राप्य स्त्रियं पुरुषविग्रहम्.”
“What may be the cause for your fear and depression behind your desire to desert the one who is so exclusively devoted to you? Know that by remaining subordinate to you, I am as faithful as Savitri was to her husband, Satyavanta, son of Dyumatsena. सावित्रीमिव मां विद्धि”
“I have not looked at any one except you, even with my mind’s eye. I have been living with you for a long time. I am young and chaste. O Rama, like an actor, why do you wish to hand me over to others. शैलूष इव मां राम परेभ्यो दातुमिच्छसि?”
“I will feel no fatigue there on the way, as if I am going on a pleasure stroll in a comfortable couch. The white reeds, the kusha, the sara and the ishika grasses and thorny trees will feel as soft as cotton or as the skin of a black antelope. I shall regard the harmful dust raised by the stormy wind and settled on me, as the most excellent sandal powder. महावातसमुद्धूतम् रजो तन्मन्ये परार्ध्यमिव चन्दनम् ॥”
“If forsaken, I shall not live a life of sorrow. Instant death is better.. उज्झितायास्त्वया नाथ तदैव मरणं वरम्.. Having profusely lamented, she embraced her husband tightly and cried bitterly चुक्रोश पतिमायस्ता भृशमालिङ्ग्य सस्वरम्.. And shed her long suppressed tears like arani stick kindling fire चिर संनियतं बाष्पं मुमोचाग्निमिवारणिः”
Rama melts down.. “When you are in grief O Devi, I do not desire even heaven. न देवि तव दुःखेन स्वर्गमप्यभिरोचये.. Like the self created Brahma, I have no fear for any one. Though I am capable of protecting you, I did not like your stay in the forest, as I did not know your intentions.”
“O beautiful one.. Follow me like Suvarchala follows her husband Sun.. तं चाहमनुवर्तेऽद्य यथा सूर्यं सुवर्चला.. My father’s word bound in truth is leading me there.. वचनं तन्नयति मां पितु स्सत्योपबृंहितम्
Chapter 3.4 Acquiring weapons. Distributing wealth to Suyagna, TrijaTa [S 31–33]
Lakshmana heard the moving conversation between Sita and Rama. His eyes brimming with tears, held the feet of his brother tightly, and requested allow him join them in the forest.
Rama had doubts about the well-being of Kaushalya and Sumitra in these circumstances. Lakshmana convinces.. “O Rama! Aware of your power, Bharata will undoubtedly pay respect to Kausalya and Sumitra with all humility. Noble Kausalya has under her charge a thousand villages for her sustenance. She can support a thousand men like me. कौसल्या बिभृयादार्या सहस्रमपि मद्विधान्”
Rama agrees to Lakshmana’s plea. He then summons him to fetch the weapons.. “O Lakshmana! In the great sacrifice performed by the mighty Janaka, Varuna himself gave him two awe-inspiring celestial bows, two impenetrable divine armours, two quivers with inexhaustible arrows, two swords plated with gold and as bright as the sun. All these weapons are deposited in the house of acharya आचार्य Vasistha where they are being worshipped. Go and bring them swiftly. ये च राज्ञो ददौ दिव्ये महात्मा वरुणः स्वयम् । स त्वमायुधमादाय क्षिप्रमाव्रज लक्ष्मण”
Rama further orders that his wealth be distributed among the noted scholars. “Fetch Suyajna, son of Vasistha, best among the brahmins along with all other distinguished brahmins, to whom I will pay my homage and leave for the forest. वसिष्ठपुत्रं तु सुयज्ञमार्यं; त्वमानयाशु प्रवरं द्विजानाम् ।”
~
S32: Lakshmana brings Vasishta’s son Suyagna who is well versed in vedas, to Rama’s palace. Rama and Sita pay their homage and go around him. Rama worshipped Suyajna with a collection of golden ornaments such as earrings, anklets, armlets, bracelets and many other ornaments of precious stones.
Then urged by Sita, Rama said to him: “Sita intends to give away to your wife her necklace, her golden chain and girdle. Could you accept them? Sita is departing for the forest and offers your wife her armlets, wonderful and elegant bracelets. Sita also wishes to give away a couch with an exquisite cover, encrusted with a variety of precious stones.”
“I am gifting you, a thousand elephants including Satrunjaya an elephant my maternal uncle had given me. नागः शत्रुं जयो नाम मातुलो यं ददौ म”
~
“O Lakshmana invite Agastya and Kausika, the two celebrated brahmins, and gift them thousand cows, gold, silver and with the great wealth of gems.” “Noble counsellor and charioteer Chitraratha has been in our service for many years. Gratify him”.
Rama then bestowed abundant wealth on each of the dependents as they stood with their throats choked with tears, saying: “Till I come back, guard each of the palaces of Lakshmana and mine and ensure that they are not left unattended.”
~
Story of Trijata
A poor brahmin by name, Trijata, made a meger livelihood in the forest by digging the earth with an ironspade and a plough. His wife insisted he meet Rama and get something. Rama jokingly said “Throw your staff and the cows on the space your staff covers will be yours.” The staff Trijata hurled crossed the bank of the river Sarayu and fell near a bull in the midst of a thousands cows.
Thus there was none among those brahmins, attendants, poor people, and beggars, who was not satisfied with the honour (received) or with the charity.
Chapter 3.5: Wail of Dasaratha & Koushalya. Sumitra consoles
As Rama, Lakshmana and Sita were departing, स्थिरबुद्धिमती Sumitra says to Lakshmana. “ Regard Rama as Dasaratha, Sita as me, and the forest as Ayodhya. My child, go in peace. रामं दशरथं विद्धि.. मां विद्धि जनकात्मजाम् .. अयोध्यामटवीं विद्धि.. गच्छ तात यथासुखम्” Here the other meaning is Vishnu, Lakshmi and VaikunTam..
S41: When Rama was departing with folded palms there arose a huge cry from the inner apartment of ladies अन्तःपुरे स्त्रीणाम्.. “He treated us as he treated his mother Kausalya, where is he going now? कौशल्यायां महातेजा यथा मातरि वर्तते।”
The anguished wives of the king wept aloud the like cows separated from their calves. इति सर्वा महिष्यस्ता विवत्सा इव धेनवः। रुरुदुश्चैव दुःखार्ताः सस्वरं च विचुक्रुशुः.
After Rama left for the forest, dark clouds appeared like the great ocean uplifted by the speed of the wind which shook the city. As if covered with darkness, the world became agitated. लोकं सर्वं पर्याकुलं जगत्.
When Dasaratha could no longer see the dust of Rama’s chariot, he fell on the ground grief stricken. Recalling his son with the robes of an ascetic, he burned with remorse, as if he had intentionally slain a Brahmin, or placed his hand in fire. हत्वेव ब्राह्मणं कामात्स्पृष्ट्वाग्निमिव पाणिना..
He disowns Kaikayi and cries to Kaushalya.. “Rama, the best of all my sons who, smeared with sandalpaste.. यः सुखेषूपधानेषु शेते चन्दनरूषितः and fanned by graceful women used to sleep on comfortable cushions will surely, from now on, lie down somewhere at the foot of a tree, pillowed upon a piece of wood or stone. काष्ठं वा यदि वाश्मानमुपधाय शयिष्यते”
Kausalya looked at the king who lay on the couch completely exhausted and said to him.
“Having planted her poison on Rama , indeed Kaikeyi of crooked ways will surely wander about freely like a female serpent that has cast off its skin..
Even giving my son to her as a slave would have been better. By that, Rama would have at least stayed in the house by doing the work entrusted by her and roaming about in the city, asking alms. Together with his wife, accompanied by Lakshmana and walking like king of elephants having a bow in hand, the mighty armed hero surely will have entered the forest. In the forest, what fate will befall them who had never seen such a suffering before? Devoid of riches, those youthful beings, in exile at the age when they should be enjoying diversions of every kind?
When that auspicious hour will come to me that will bring an end to my sorrows? When will the city rejoice like an ocean swelling jubilantly on a full moon night.. नन्दिष्यति पुरी हृष्टा समुद्रैव पर्वणि? When will thousands of men shower the parched grains of paddy on the royal highway over my two sons?
“When shall I see the two princes in Ayodhya adorned with splendid ear-rings प्रविशन्तौ कदाऽयोध्यां द्रक्ष्यामि शुभकुण्डलौ..and armed with excellent bows and swords, entering Ayodhya like a pair of mountains crowned with peaks? When will he return to me like the timely rain? In past life, I must have separated calfs from their mother while they were longing to suck?”
Sarga44: Sumitra consoles Kaushalya reminding about his righteousness.
“रामः पितरं सत्यवादिनमकरोत्.. रामः धर्मे स्थितः .. रामं लक्ष्मणः सर्वदा अनुवर्तते स्म.. धर्मसत्यव्रतधनः रामः”
“Delightful breeze of moderate heat and cold will blow from woods at all times.. Knowing magnanimity of Rama, the sun will not be able to torment Rama’s body with his rays. सूर्यः रामस्य गात्रमंशुभिः सन्तापयितुं नार्हति..… Gently touching with its cool rays when he is reposing at night and embracing him like a father, the moon will refresh Rama.”
“Rama killed Subahu, the son of तिमिध्वजः शम्बरासुरः the chief of demons, and received celestial weapons from Brahma, he will dwell fearlessly in the forest as if in his own palace. How can earth cannot be under the command of Rama?”
“Rama will soon be coronated along with Mother Earth, Vaidehi Lakshmi पृथिव्यया सह वैदेह्या श्रिया च क्षिप्रं रामोऽभिषेक्ष्यते..”
“The goddess of fortune Sita followed him even as he departed for the forest. Indeed, what can be difficult for him to obtain? सीतेवानुगता लक्ष्मीस्तस्य किम् नाम दुर्लभम्?”
“What can be difficult to obtain for, to whose front indeed walks Lakshmana? लक्ष्मणोव्रजति ह्यग्रे तस्य किम् नाम दुर्लभम्?”
“You will be able to see your son, like the rising moon”
Hearing those words of Sumitra , the agony of Kausalya disappeared in the same way as an autumnal cloud with a little water in it disappears quickly.
Chapter 3.6: Old Brahmins accompany till Tamasa
Sarga 45: While Rama leaves for the forest, the faithful people followed him wailing. Looking at them with love as if they were his own children and as though drinking them with his glances, Rama appealed to them to show the same love to Bharata as they shower on to him.
The old brahmins vrudda dwija whose wealth was vedas ब्राह्मणानां परं धनं वेदाः, were ready to leave their homes and join him to the forest. Lamenting they urge the horses not to leave Ayodhya. Seeing them walk, Rama melts. He steps down from his chariot and walks along with them.
‘O Rama, all these living beings, movable and immovable, are devoted to you and want you to return. Show consideration’ भक्तिमन्ति हि भूतानि जम्गम अजम्गमानि च’.. In sorrow, the trees hunch back, and the birds motionless unable to search food.’
The river Tamasa appeared there, as though stopping Rama. तमसा नदी राघवं वारयन्तीव ददृशे..
Sarga 46: The citizens along with Rama reach the bank of Tamasa and spend the night. Rama reflects..
“Bharata, the virtuous man, can indeed console my father and mother by his kind words. भरतः खलु धर्म आत्मा पितरम् मातरम् च मे ..धर्म अर्थ काम सहितैः वाक्यैः आश्वासयिष्यति”
“O Lakshmana, you have done a good job by accompanying me. Otherwise assistance for Sita’s protection would have been sought (necessary). I shall live this night on water alone. I prefer it, though various kinds of forest products are available. अद्भिरेव तु सौमित्रे वत्स्याम्यद्य निशामिमाम्। 2.46.10.”
On waking up, Rama tells..“Observe, Oh Lakshmana, the वृद्धब्राह्मणाः full of longing for us, unmindful even of their homes, sleeping together at the roots of trees.. वृक्ष मूलेषु संसुप्तान् पश्य लक्ष्मण साम्प्रतम्. It appears they are prepared to give up their lives rather than abandon their determination प्राणानपि न्यसिष्यन्ति निश्चयं तु..”
“While they are asleep, we shall quickly mount the chariot and fearlessly proceed on the way. The prince should deliver the swa-jana citizens from the sufferings caused by themselves but should not make them suffer on their account. पौरा ह्यात्मकृताद्दुःखाद्विप्रमोच्या नृपात्मजैः। न तु खल्वात्मना योज्या दुःखेन पुरवासिनः।।2.46.23।।”
The three along with the charioteer Sumantra swiftly cross the Tamasa river. Further, Sumantra is asked to go northward and come back, so that the citizens are confused seeing the footsteps of the horses and can no longer trace the path taken.. मोहन अर्थम् तु पौराणाम्
When the citizens realised that they had lost Rama, they were filled with despondency.. Even the
Chapter 3.7 Cry of Ayodhya Folks
48 Filled with sorrow, the people returned to the city deeply distressed. Eyes overflowing with tears, they longed for death. Smitten with grief, they lost their highmindedness and looked as if their life had been drained out नगरवासिनाम् सत्वानि (vital life airs)उद्गतानीव
The anguished citizens wept aloud the like cows separated from their calves. विलपन्ति स्म दुःखार्ता विवत्सा इव धेनवः
The merchants did not offer their wares for sale. The marketplace looked graceless (lifeless). The householders did not cook their food. For those who do not see Rama, of what use are the houses or spouses or sons or
fortunes or delight? Lakshmana is the only fortunate person in the world who has followed Rama along with Sita to serve them. एकः सत्पुरुषो लोके लक्ष्मण स्सह सीतया। योऽनुगच्छति काकुत्स्थं रामं परिचरन् वने।।2.48.8।
Who can live with pleasure under the rule of Kaikeyi of wicked nature who banished for her desires?
The breeze did not blow cool. No more did the Moon look pleasant. The Sun did not give warmth to the world. All the world was agitated.
The rivers and the lotuspools have done some meritorious acts in the past as a result of which Rama having plunged into their holy waters will make his ablution. आपगाः कृतपुण्यास्ता पद्मिन्यश्च सरांसि च। येषु स्नास्यति काकुत्स्थो विगाह्य सलिलं शुचि।।2.48.9।।
The hills will exhibit their excellent flowers and fruits off season out of compassion in order to welcome Rama. अकाले चापि मुख्यानि पुष्पाणि च फलानि च। दर्शयिष्यन्त्यनुक्रोशाद्गिरयो राममागतम्।।2.48.13।।
Such was the lamentation of the women of the city. Overcome with grief as if frightened at the approach of death mrutyu, they wept bitterly. With markets closed, the city of Ayodhya cheerless and shelterless looked like the sky without stars.
Those people devoid of delight entered their rich mansions with great difficulty. Stricken with sorrow, looked at their own kinsmen and could not recognise them. दुःखेन दुःखोपहता विशन्तः। नैव प्रजज्ञुः स्वजनं जनं वा निरीक्षमाणाः प्रविनष्टहर्षाः।।2.47.19।।
Chapter 4 Rama reaches Ganga
Fie on the king who is overtaken by passion.. राजानं धिग्दशरथं कामस्य वशमागतम्।।2.49.4।।
Such were the words of people living in villages and hamlets that Rama happened to hear as he was crossing the boundaries of Kosala. He then crossed the river Vedasruti and went in the southern direction where sage Agastya resided. with horses, crossed Gomati on whose marshy bank cows grazed, and crossed the river Syandika echoing with the cries of peacocks and swans.
Rama showed Sita vast tracts of land encircled by kingdoms which were formerly bestowed upon Ikshvaku by emperor Manu. स महीं मनुना राज्ञा दत्तामिक्ष्वाकवे पुरा।
Then Rama was talking his thoughts to the charioteer. When will I unite with my parents in Ayodhya? When will I go hunting again? In this world, hunting is a unique pleasure and a delightful sport for royal sages. राजर्षिगणसम्मिता मृगया.. But I do not have a great longing.
50: Having crossed the vast, beautiful kingdom of Kosala, Rama stood facing Ayodhya with folded palms and said: अयोध्याभिमुखो धीमान् प्राञ्जलिर्वाक्यमब्रवीत्।।2.50.1।। “Ayodhya! I take leave of you and of all those gods inhabiting and guarding you.”
There Rama saw the holy Ganga त्रिपथगा flowing in three worlds with her sacred waters. The Ganga is graced by devatas, danavas, gandharvas and kinneras. देवदानवगन्धर्वैः किन्नरैरुपशोभिताम्.. Since this river flows through heavens for the gods, it is wellknown as ‘Devapadmini’ where celestial lotuses grow. आकाशगमाम् देवपद्मिनीम् विख्याताम्.. That Ganga flows from the feet of lord Visnu and by the effulgence (penance) of Sagara’s son (Bhagiratha) emerged from the matted locks of lord Siva.
Chapter 5: Guha, the chieftan of hunters
50: Mightyarmed Rama reached Srngaberapura on the bank of this Ganga loud with the cries of kraunchas and herons. आससाद महाबाहुः शृङ्गिबेरपुरं प्रति।।2.50.26।। He tells Sumantra “a very large ingudi (almond) tree not far from the river, luxuriant with flowers and budding leaves. We shall stay there tonight.”
There lived the mighty king Guha who was born in the race of nishadas and he was dear friend of Rama. तत्र राजा गुहो नाम रामस्यात्मसमः सखा । Having come to know that Rama had arrived in his region, Guha accompanied by senior ministers and people of his clan came to greet him. Seeing that निषादाधिपतिं guha approach, Rama received him warmly. Guha tells “This is just like Ayodhya to you. What can I do for you? O mahabahu Rama, who can have the good fortune of receiving such a beloved guest like you?”
Guha offers him rice and food and makes arrangement for the horses. Lakshmana washed the feet of Rama who then along with his Sita lay down upon the ground by the tree. तस्य भूमौ शयानस्य पादौ प्रक्षाल्य लक्ष्मणः। सभार्यस्य ततोऽभ्येत्य तस्थौ वृक्षमुपाश्रितः
Then bow in hand and with alertness, conversing with Lakshmana and the charioteer, Guha remained awake the whole night watching Rama. गुहोऽपि सह सूतेन सौमित्रिमनुभाषयन्। अन्वजाग्रत्ततो राममप्रमत्तो धनुर्धरः।।2.50.50।।.. “I along with my kinsmen, bow in hand, will protect my dear friend, Rama with Sita from every side. Wandering about in this forest all the time there is nothing unknown to me here.”
“All the women in the palace स्त्रीणामन्तः पुरे.. having cried so much perhaps, must have quietened down out of sheer exhaustion. That is why perhaps the sounds from the royal palace have ceased.. ...विनद्य सुमहानादं श्रमेणोपरताः स्त्रियः.. निर्घोषोपरतं चातो मन्ये राजनिवेशनम्.”
In the morning, Rama says “O dear Lakshmana the holy night is over and it is time for sunrise. The deep dark bird, the cuckoo is singing. Listen to the screams of the peacocks in the forest. भास्करोदयकालोऽयं गता भगवती निशा।असौ सुकृष्णो विहगः कोकिलस्तात कूजति।।2.52.2।।The Ganga is flowing fast to merge in the sea. We need to cross it.”
Guha says.. “Get quickly to the sacred bank (of Ganga) a strong, auspicious boat equipped with rowing rods and helmsmen who can help cross the river with ease”. Rama and Lakshmana then put on their quivers, fastened their swords and holding their bows went towards Ganga along with Sita.
Sumantra requests Rama to take him along, but Rama declines. I find none else like you as friendly as you are to the Ikshvaku race. So do whatever you like to see that king Dasaratha does not brood over me. इक्ष्वाकूणां त्वया तुल्यं सुहृदं नोपलक्षये।
Sumantra is heart broken. How can these excellent horses draw this chariot without you? How shall we return empty?
And then, Guha gets न्यग्रोधक्षीरम् latex of banyan tree, and with that, Rama matted his own hair and Lakshmana’s. Both of them stood dressed in bark wearing crowns of matted hair, they resembled two resplendent ascetics. तौ तदा चीरवसनौ जटामण्डलधारिणौ आशोभेतामृषिसमौ भ्रातरौ रामलक्ष्मणौ।।2.52.70।।
Having adopted the path of ascetics along with Lakshmana, Rama gave farewell advise to Guha about taking care of his kingdom:.. ततो वैखानसं मार्गमास्थितः सह लक्ष्मणः.Rama boarded the boat and chanted for his own safety mantras befitting brahmins and kshatriyas, and paid homage to the river.. राघवोऽपि महातेजा नावमारुह्य तां ततः। ब्रह्मवत् क्षत्रवच्चैव जजाप हितमात्मनः।।2.52.78।। And when the boat reached the midstream of Ganga, Sita with palms folded invoked the river.
They reach vatsyarajyam. Famished, they killed a boar, an antelope, a spotted deer. They partook the meat and reached a tree by evening.
53: Rama tries to send Lakshmana back to Ayodhya, apprehending trouble for Kousalya and others in the hands of Kaikeyi. Lakshmana however refuses.
Chapter 6: Rama’s mind goes back to Ayodhya.
Due of me, mother Sumitra should not live in sorrow. I shall go with Sita into the Dandaka forest, and you be the protector of the helpless, Kausalya. Kaikeyi is a woman of heinous deeds. Out of hostility she may treat unjustly to my mother.. क्षुद्रकर्मा हि कैकेयी द्वेष्यमन्याय्यमाचरेत्।
Surely in one of her previous births did my mother separate women from their sons. That is why this (calamity) has befallen her. नूनं जात्यन्तरे कस्मिन् स्त्रियः पुत्रैर्वियोजिताः।
Kausalya nurtured me for a long time and reared me with great difficulty. When she was going to enjoy the fruits of her labour, I have been separated from her. Fie upon me.. I am causing endless sorrow to my mother. May no mother give birth to a son like me. Her myna would say to her parrot, ‘O parrot, bite the foot of the enemy (Kaikeyi)’. I think that bird is a greater source of joy to my mother than I.. शुक ‘अरेः पादम् दश’ तत् वाक्यम् श्रूयते.. सा शारिका मत्तः प्रीतिविशिष्टा
Once enraged, I can overpower Ayodhya, and even the whole world all by myself with my arrows. But exhibition of this prowess without any reason is not desirable. Owing to fear of unrighteous conduct and fear of the other world, I did not get coronated O Anagha. अधर्मभयभीतश्च परलोकस्य चानघ…
And in this manner, Rama lamented pitifully in that desolate forest. अश्रुपूर्णमुखो रामो निशि तूष्णीमुपाविशत्।।2.53.27।। Lakshmana consoled Rama.. “it is certain that since your departure, the city of Ayodhya must be lustreless like night without the Moon. निष्प्रभा त्वयि निष्क्रान्ते गतचन्द्रेव शर्वरी।।2.53.29।।”
Chapter 7: Bharadwaja Ashrama & Chitrakuta
54: Rama, Sita and Lakshmana entered the deep forest and saw the different regions of the land and other enchanting places which they had never seen before, and proceeded towards the region where the river Yamuna merged with Bhagirathi Ganga.
“ Lakshmana! look at the column of smoke rising like the banner of the venerable firegod near Prayaga. I think an ascetic dwells nearby. पश्य सौमित्रे धूममुन्नतम्..अग्नेर्भगवतः केतुं.. मन्ये सन्निहितो मुनिः।।2.54.5।। Here are logs of wood cut into pieces by forestdwellers, living on forest products. You can see various trees near the hermitage of sage Bharadwaja.”
They reached comfortably by evening the hermitage of sage Bharadwaja near the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna. गङ्गायमुनयोस्सन्धौ प्रापतुर्निलयं मुनेः।।2.54.8।। They introduced themselved and narrated the past events. The sage offered them food, water, and place to stay in the night.
Rama enquires about a comfortable place for Sita in their settlement in the forest, away from the eyes of the villagers. Bharadwaja suggests “O my son ten krosas (about twenty miles) from here is a mountain wellknown as Chitrakuta, resembling ‘Gandhamadana’. चित्रकूट इति ख्यातो गन्धमादनसन्निभः।।2.54.29।।
“ I think mount Chitrakuta is the right place for you to stay. Go there. That mountain is full of trees of every kind, is inhabited by kinneras and uragas (serpents). It echoes with the cries of peacocks, is frequented by mighty tuskers. Filled with fruits and roots, it is sacred and pleasant.वासमौपयिकं मन्ये तव राम महाबल
नानानगगणोपेतः किन्नरोरगसेवितः।
मयूरनादाभिरुतो गजराजनिषेवितः।।2.54.39।।
गम्यतां भवता शैल श्चित्रकूटः स विश्रुतः।
पुण्यश्च रमणीयश्च बहुमूलफलायुतः।।2.54.40।।”
“You will see, herds of elephants and deer ranging in the forest. Your heart will be filled with joy while you wander with Sita beholding rivers, waterfalls, plateaus, caverns and mountain torrents. You will see a dense banyan श्याम न्यग्रोध tree that you should worship”
As suggested by the sage, the head to river Yamuna aka Kalindi. Then they both made a big wooden float by joining logs of wood, spreading bamboos on it and covering it with the (fragrant roots of) Ushira bushes. Lakshmana cut the stems of reeds and branches of the Jambu tree to prepare a comfortable seat for Sita. Slowly Rama helps her cross the boat as she shyly smiles. Rama placed robes and ornaments on the float by the side of Sita and a spade and a basket along with weapons. Then they crossed the river carefully.
Having reached the banyan tree न्यग्रोधं, Sita invoked it, saying, ‘O great tree I offer you my salutations.’ Rama commands his brother ‘Lakshmana, you walk ahead of Sita and I shall follow behind with weapons.’ And thus, she walked between them like a she elephant between two males. मातङ्गयोर्मध्यगता शुभा नागवधूरिव।।2.55.29।।
Lakshmana brought her various beautiful plants and stocks of flowers. Beholding the river Yamuna with its wonderful water and sand echoing with the cackle of swans and cranes, Sita went ecstatic. They hunt a few deer for meal and rest for the night.
Next day, Rama shows to Sita.. “O daughter of Videha, behold these kimsuka trees in full bloom everywhere. With the passing of winter, they appear bright as though they are garlanded by their own flowers. Behold these bhallataka trees in full bloom though there are none to enjoy them. They are bent with fruits and leaves. Surely, we can plan to live here.
Rama meets sage Valmiki — Lakshmana builds a leafthatched cottage — Rama enters the cottage at an auspicious time after due worship of respective deities. O Lakshmana see the honeycombs of the size of wooden vessels crowded by the honeybees hanging down from every tree. See these flocks of singing birds followed by herds of elephants. Let this be our habitation. Rama, Sita and Lakshmana approached the hermitage of sage Valmiki and paid obeisance to him with folded hands.
Rama says Lakshmana to build a house there as his mind impels. Lakshmana fetched different kinds of logs of wood, and with them made a hut and thatched it with leaves. Rama saw the goodlooking leafhut with mats tied around as walls, and asks Lakshmana to prepare Venison meat for Vastu pooja. Sanctified with the mantras and worship of all the gods, Rama felt a great happiness on entering the hut.
Then they with their senses conquered, enjoyed perfect happiness in that splendid forest teeming with many varieties of animals and birds, with trees full of brilliant clusters of flowers and echoing with the sounds of wild animals. तदा जितेन्द्रियाः अनेकनानामृगपक्षिसङ्कुले filled with many varieties of animals and birds.. विचित्रपुष्पस्तबकै: with bunches of bright flowers.. द्रुमै युते trees full of.. व्यालमृगानुनादिते echoing with the sounds of wild elephants/animals, वनोत्तमे सुसुखम् विजह्रु: happily in that excellent forest they wandered, which was like Kubera’s nandana vana
Rama shed the sorrow of his banishment from the city and rejoiced with a gladdened heart.
Chapter 8. Sumantra returns.. Story of Shravana.. Death of Dasaratha..
58: Meanwhile, on Rama’s order, the charioteer Sumantra bids bye to Shrungaberapura and Guha. He reached Ayodhya on the third day at dusk and found the city cheerless. As he was moving towards the city, hundreds and thousands of men came pouring towards him enquiring, ‘Where is Rama?’ “I took leave of Rama on the bank of the Ganga and have returned with his permission.”
He heard lament of those men, wailings of women looking through the window and of the people in marketplaces. Sumantra with his face muffled, drove along the highway straight to the palace of king Dasaratha. Quickly alighting from the chariot, he entered the king’s palace and crossed the seven courtyards overcrowded with people. Sumantra approached the king who was seated in the eight courtyard.
Kaushalya prods Dasaratha.. “Kaikeyi for fear of whom you dare not ask the charioteer about Rama, is not here. You may speak to him without fear. देव! यस्या भयाद्रामं नानुपृच्छसि सारथिम्..नेह तिष्ठिति कैकेयी”
Sumantra conveys the past events and the message of Rama to the wailing king and Kausalya. The shadow of sorrow over Ayodhya — withering plants and flowers, driedup ponds, immobile animals.
~
63: After the banishment of Rama the king spent the sixth night, recalling the evil deed done by him in the past. “ A man has to reap the fruit of his action, good or evil. If some one cuts down mango trees and plants palasa trees and waters them, will repent when he sees only flowers while he expects fruit. So I have cut the mango trees and watered palasa trees. In utter foolishness, I have banished Rama at the time of fruition and regretting later.”
“ In my youth I was a great archer who could hit the target by its sound. As such I committed this sin. कौसल्ये! लब्धशब्देन कुमारेण धनुष्मता कुमारश्शब्दवेधीति मया पापमिदं कृतम्।।2.63.11।।” “you were not married then. I was prince regent. The rainy season that inflames passion and pride had just set in. Engulfed by torrents of rain that continued to fall ceaselessly, the mountain visited by intoxicated antelopes looked like a mass of water.
In that highly delightful season, wishing to go hunting I, armed with bow and arrows, rode my chariot towards river Sarayu. And there, with no control over my senses, I hid in a lonely place with my bow in readiness intending to shoot a buffalo or an elephant or any other wild animal that might come to the spot for drinking water in the night. I heard the sound of a pitcher being filled with water which resembled the sound of an elephant. I seized my arrow glowing like a venomous snake and aimed it towards the sound.
A man’s voice was heard saying, ‘How can an arrow be discharged at a person like me who is an ascetic?’ ‘I do not regret so much about the loss of my own life as about my mother and father after I am dead.’ ‘My aged parents along with me are killed by a single arrow. Who is that malicious
knave who has slain us?’ shravana urges Dasaratha to inform his waiting parents.
When Dasaratha reached the house of parents with pitcher of water, ‘You are a support to the supportless, eyes to the blind, you are our very vital life. Why don’t you speak to us O son? why are you late today?
Dasaratha narrates the events and takes them to the dying Shravana.. “‘Though you have killed my purehearted son unintentionally, I will pronounce a disastrous and dreadful curse on you. ‘Just as I am now suffering from grief caused by my son’s death, you, O king, shall die from the sorrow on account of (separation from) your son.”
And Dasaratha tells Kaushalya.. “O gentle lady, the words of that noble ascetic have come true today. Hence I am now going to give up my life. O Kausalya, I am unable to see you. My memory is failing and the messengers of Yama are hastening me. With the loss of my mental faculty, all the sense organs are giving way, like the rays of the lamp giving way together when the oil is exhausted.”
He kept pitiably muttering till past midnight until tormented by an intense agony he breathed his last.
Chapter 9: Bharata refuses to Rule
After Dasaratha’s death, Vasishta ordered his assistants to go to Girivraja and bring Bharata to Ayodhya immediately without telling him what had happened. Kaikeyi then told him how Dasharatha had died after Rama had gone to the forests for exile. Kaikeyi then told him the truth of how she had forced Dashratha to send Rama to exile, so Bharata could be crowned. He called his mother wicked and asked her to leave the kingdom. Bharata vowed to bring back Rama and left to meet Kausalya.
With family members and citizens shedding tears, Bharata cremated King Dasharatha on the banks of the Sarayu River.
Shatrugna then spotted Manthara happily moving around decked in jewelry. Filled with rage, he dragged her around the ground until he reached Kaikeyi. He then used harsh words to criticise Kaikeyi’s action. A scared Kaikeyi ran to Bharata, who asked Shatrugna not to do anything to women.
Refusing to be crowned the King, Bharata proceeded to the forests with the queens and his army to bring back Rama. Many men accompanied him and cleared the road for him, building bridges to make it easy to travel. The people of Ayodhya were happy to see Bharata leave, hoping that he would bring back the illustrious Rama.
When they reached the banks of the Ganga, Guha took fruits, roots, and leaves as offering to Bharata’s army. Guha then offered to take Bharata to Bharadvaja’s ashrama. Guha himself brought a graceful boat called Swastika, covered with pale woollen cloth, and resounding with music. On this boat ascended Bharata, the mighty Śatrughna, Kausalyā, Sumitrā, and other wives of the king.
He described how Rama slept on the ground and how he was dressed in bark and leaves. Bharata wept uncontrollably and also decided to wear bark, and eat only fruits and roots until Rama returned to Ayodhya and was crowned as the King.
Having crossed the river, Bharata met sage Bharadvaja who gave him the welcome a king deserved. They headed to Chitrakoota. Hearing the commotion caused by the Ayodhya army, Rama asked Lakshmana to find out what was happening. Lakshmana saw the army with Bharata’s flag bearing the kalpa tree, and assumed that Bharata was coming to attack them on the orders of Kaikeyi.
Dasaratha’s last rites
100–104
Rama greets Bharata ‘You have come a long distance (from Ayodhya) to this forest, O Bharata It is a pity, dear brother, to see you after a long time, so emaciated. What brings you to the forest? And he enquires about wellfare of administartion and everyone in Ayodhya.
Bharata informs about the death of Dasaratha and remind the oldest brother is to be the king. That was the tradition. Rama on learning about the death of his father is shocked. They perform the rites by Mandakini river.
~
Seeing the meger offering of the fruit pulp by Rama to his departed father, Kaushalya breaks dowm. “How can Indralike Dasaratha, having ruled the earth bounded by four oceans, eat a cake of ingudi pulp? how is it that my heart does not break into a thousand pieces in sorrow? “रामेण पितुः दत्तम् इङ्गुदिपिण्याकम् समीक्ष्य..मे हृदयम् my heart दुःखेन सहस्रधा कथम्
न स्फोटति not breaking?
Beholding Rama devoid of all luxury, his mothers afflicted with grief, and overcome with sorrow, cried aloud, tears streaming down. Rama rose and touched the auspicious feet of all his mothers. Those largeeyed queens, their palms with delicate fingers and with auspicious hands with a pleasant touch, wiped the dust from the back of his body.
~
After Vasistha and Rama sat down, righteous Bharata sat close to his elder brother. “ I am your brother, disciple and slave. A great sin has been made by mother. You have to come back.”
Rama consoles.. “O sinless one, it is laid down (in sastras) that elders when married can always act at their free will towards their wives and sons. the honour shown to our righteous father ought to be shown towards our mother also.”
Bharata further coaxes Rama “ A man plants a tree, rears it till it grows into such a large tree with a big trunk that it becomes difficult for a dwarf to climb. When the tree flowers, but does not bear fruit, the man who planted it gets no pleasure, as the purpose was not met. (please do not let go vain of this vision)”
Rama says “A man is neither independent nor competent to do any act on his free will. Fate pulls him this way or the other. कृतान्तः fate इतश्च इतरतश्च or परिकर्षति”
“All accumulations of wealth deplete at the end. Every man who attains elevated positions falls at the end. The only fear of a ripened fruit is the fear of falling down (from the tree). In the same way every man who is born has no other fear except the fear of death.”
“In a mighty ocean, two pieces of logs meet one another, float together and in due course get separated. In the same way wives, sons, relatives and riches remain together for some time and thereafter get separated. Their separation is certain.”
“No living being in this world can act as he likes. Therefore, no one should grieve for the dead. Like the flow of water which never reverts to its source, age passes. Therefore, a man must employ his self in righteous acts that bring him happiness. By doing so, it is said, people will always be happy.”
“No one like you or me should ever mourn about this highly sagacious and learned king who was proficient in scriptural knowledge. Compose yourself. Do not grieve. Return to the city (Ayodhya) and reside there. You have been commanded so by our father who was a man of selfcontrol.”
When Rama refuses, Bharata then tearfully offered golden sandals to Rama. He then worshipped those sandals, and keeping the sandals on his head returned to Ayodhya.
Bharata decided to wear only bark and live like an ascetic. He placed Rama’s sandals on the throne and decide to govern Ayodhya on behalf of Rama until the completion of 14 years.
After the installation of sandals, Bharata is residing at Nandigrama.
~
A Brahmana named Jabali tries to persuade Rama to accept the kingdom by advocating the theory of Nastikas. Rama refutes his arguments.
Chapter 10: Saints troubled at Chitrakoota
Meanwhile, in the Chitrakoota forests Rama observed that the sages living in the area were worried by the evil rakshasa Khara, brother to Ravana. They decided to leave the place for this reason, and left having informed Rama.
Rama too leaves Chitrakuta for this reason. Rama then went to meet the great sage Atri, who asked Sita to take the blessings of his aged and illustrious wife, Anasuya. Sita then met Anasuya and took her blessings. Anasuya was pleased and gave Sita garlands, ornaments, garments, and pastes to apply to the body. Anasuya asked Sita to wear the garments and ornaments.
She was pleased to see the resplendent-looking Sita. Rama was also happy to see Sita with ornaments.
Uttarakanda
Chapter 60 — The Ascetics from Yamuna seek out Rama for help. Madhu of Mathura was gifted Shiva Trident. His son Lavana causing Havoc. Lavana keeps his trident in the evening at bay. Thats the clue to defeat him
Chapter 62 — Shatrughna asks permission to fight Lavana. He is stationed for 12 years and defeats him. He established himself in City of Madhu. Indra the architect.
Chapter 67 — The Story of Mandhata, who was a greak king from Raghu kula
Chapter 71 — Shatrughna seeks out the Sage Valmiki. Listens to Ramayana. Hears lava Kusha sing
Chapter 72 — Shatrughna returns to see Rama. Rama asks himto enjoy for 7 nights and return back to rule his territory.
Chapter 73 — The Death of a Brahmin’s Son. Rama is blamed for the unnatural deaths. Rama seeks help from his counsellers.
Narada’s Discourse of the idea of 4 yugas. Kruta yuga only brahmans and no life vegetation. Treta yuga, the brahmans and kings could be ascetics. Manu came out with 4 varnas which was practised in dwapara yuga. In Kali yuga, all 4 varnas could practise ascetism. Right now, a shudra Shambukasura practises ascetism, which causes trouble.
Rama instructs the dead body of the boy be placed in sweet-scented oil so that it not decay. He leaves Lakshmana Bharata to take incharge of city and leaves in Pushpaka Vimana. He searches for the shudra ascetic everywhere and spots an ascetic praying with leg upwards and head downwards. When Rama enquired about his varna, “I am Shudra, I am Shambuka, I wanted to reach the higher world”. Rama decimates him and lberates him to the higher world. He prays that the Brahmin boy be restored back with life.
Rama is advised to meet Agastya, who lived in waters for 12 years, born out of Kumba. And in pushpaka vimana they head. Agastya is pleased with Rama’s act of restoring life to the boy. “You are Narayana.. Accept these special ornament made by Vishwakarma himself.”
Rama says. “I am a kshatriya. I can only give gifts to brahmins. I cannot accept.”
Agastya tells about the creation of Kings.. At the beginning of kruta yuga, there was no king.. people approached Brahma. ‘We have no king.. Even Gods have Indra as king.’ Indra gave a part of his vitality and the first king was born. Varuna gave some energy.. kuvera some wealth...’
And since you are that king, you can accept it. Rama then asks Agastya.. ‘Where did you get this jewel from?”
‘In treta yuga, there was a huge forest for 100 yojanas, devoid of animals and men. Beautiful lakes.. I saw one dead corpse in a lake, and one god like person descending and devoring that corpse. Surprised, I asked him his story.’
Sudeva reigned over the Vidarbhas. He had two sons by his two queens, I was named Shveta and my younger brother Suratha. My father having ascended to heaven, I was installed as king by the people, and accordingly applied myself to rule with equity.
After ruling for a 1000 years, I came do this place without people or life. I practised austerities for a 1000 years and went to Brahmaloka. But I was afflicted by hunger. And was asked to devour my own corpse. I was told to be freed by Agastya — said Shweta.
And when I reached there, Shweta begged to free him from his curse, and handed over this rare jewel.
~
Hearing this, Rama asks.. O muni, why was that dense forest, in which the king Sveta of Vidarbha used to perform hard penances, devoid of birds and animals?
Agastya tells the story
In the golden age, Manu was the king. His son was ikṣvāku.
Manu said to Ikshvaaku..’be the lord over creatures.’ राजवंशानां कर्ता भव” इति मनुः उक्तवान्. I have been highly pleased with you. For soon you shall become a very liberal price. You shall govern the subjects meting out proper punishment to them, but do not punish them without any fault.
७.७०.६
तं पुत्रं पूर्वक राज्ये निक्षिप्य भुवि दुर्जयम् । पृथिव्यां राजवंशानां भव कर्तेत्युवाच ह ।
