Sree MadValmiki Ramayanam
( Translation and Commentary by Scholar,
Sreeman Brahmasree Desiraju Hanumantharao ji
and Sreeman Brahmasree K M K Murthy ji )
Sree MadValmiki Ramayanam
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 1
| Valmiki describes the innumerable virtues of Sree Rama in this sarga. Dasaratha wants to coronate Rama as the crown prince with the approval of all his people. With this end in mind, he invites various citizens, important people from all cities and villages in his kingdom. |
Bharatha, while going to his maternal uncle's house, has taken his brother Satrughna (he who has no sins and who annihilates his enemies) along with him with love. Treated with good hospitality and paternal love by his maternal uncle, Yudhajit, who was a lord of cavalry, Bharatha stayed with his brother there. Those heroes of valour Bharatha and Satrughna, though staying there enjoying all the comforts, were remembering their age old father. The mighty Dasaratha was also often remembering his sons Bharatha and Satrughna who were out of his state and who were equivalent to Indra and Varuna.
Dasaratha was bestowing his equal love to all his four sons who were best among men, as though they were his four hands emerging out of his own body. Rama, like the Brahma among all the living beings, the most virtuous among those brothers and the mightiest was a great source of joy for his father. That Rama - was He not the eternal Vishnu who was born on earth as prayed by celestials to kill the egoistic Ravana?
Like Adithi by Indra, best among the celestials, Kausalya shone by her son Rama, the mighty. Rama was beautiful in form, a hero of valor and without envy. By virtues, he was like Dasaratha. In this way, he was an incomparable son on earth. That Rama was always peaceful in mind and spoke softly. He did not react to the hard words spoken by others. That Rama, because of his good bent of mind, feels glad even by whatever way a good thing is done to him. He does not remember any number of bad things done to him. Whenever he finds some time even while practising archery, Rama used to converse with elderly people, elder by way of conduct or wisdom or age or with good- natured people.
Rama was a wise man. He used to speak sweetly. He was the first man to initiate a talk. His speech was compassionate. He was valorous. But he was not arrogant of his mighty valour. He did not speak untruth. He was all knowing. He used to be receptive and worshipful to the elders. People used to love him and he used to love the people. He had compassion. He conquered anger. He used to be receptive and worshipful to the wise. He had mercy towards the meek. He knew what was to be done. He had always self-control. He was clean (in conduct).
That Rama, having an attitude suitable for his social rank, giving due respect to righteousness of warrior-class, believed that by following the righteousness he would attain great fame and through it the fruit of heaven. Rama was not interested in actions, which were not beneficial. He was a scholar. He had no taste in tales opposing righteousness. Like vächaspathi, his eloquent speech contained a series of strategies for action. Rama was a young man without any disease. He was a good speaker. He had a good body. He knew both time and place. He could grasp the essence of men. He was the one gentleman born on earth.
People loved the virtuous prince Rama and treated him as their spirit moving outside. After completing his education properly, Rama, after knowing the science of archery as prescribed, was better than his father in the use of bow and arrows. Rama, having born in a good clan, was gentle minded. He was not feeble. He spoke truth. He was straightforward. He was properly trained by elderly wise men that knew righteousness. Rama knew the real form of desire, wealth and righteousness. He had a good memory power. He had a spontaneous wisdom. He had skills in arranging customs useful to society prevalent at that time.
Rama was humble. He did not let his feelings appear outwardly. He kept his thoughts to himself. He helped others. His anger and pleasure were not wasteful. He knew when to give and when not to give. Rama had a firm devotion and steadfast mind. He was not stubborn nor did he speak evil words. He was free from idleness and was ever alert. He recognized his own errors and those of others.
Rama knew the theory and practice of sciences. He understood the differences among men. He could judiciously discriminate whom to protect and whom to punish. He identified good men and protected them. He knew the people worthy of reprimand. He knew the ways and means of getting income as well as the system of spending, as perceived by economic sciences. Rama could obtain great skill in the groups of sciences along with their subsidiaries. He was interested in enjoying comforts only after understanding the economic realities. He never remained inactive.
Rama was acquainted with the fine arts useful for entertainment. He knew how to distribute the wealth. He was efficient in riding and taming of elephants and horses. Rama was the best of persons knowing the science of archery in the world; and was well appreciated by the champions of archery. He attained skills in marshalling the army. He faced and killed the enemies in battle.
Even enraged celestials and demons could not defeat Rama in battle. He had no jealousy. He conquered anger. He had no arrogance and envy. He had not humiliated any living being. He had not surrendered to time. That Prince Rama, with these good virtues, was fair to the people. He was agreeable to the three worlds. By patience and the related virtues, he was equal to earth, by wisdom to Brihaspathi and by valor to Devendra.
Rama, by his virtues, was a source of happiness to all the people and a spring of joy to his father. As the sun shines with his rays, Rama was shining, thus, with his virtues. The earth wished Rama to be her Lord as he was adorned with self -control and norms of behavior bearing undefeatable valor equal to that of universal lords like Indra.
Dasaratha, who annihilates enemies, started thinking as follows after observing his son with his many incomparable virtues. The long living and aged Dasaratha thought: "Will Rama become king while I am still alive? Shall I enjoy that happiness?" A great loving thought was ringing in his mind that when he would be able to see his beloved son Rama crowned as a king.
"Is not Rama, as a raining cloud to the earth, better liked by people than me, as he desires the development of the world and has equal compassion towards all living beings. Rama is equal to Yama and Devendra in valor, to Brihaspati in wisdom and to a mountain in courage. He is more virtuous than me. Shall I attain heaven, after seeing in this age, my son ruling the entire earth?"
Rama had many other virtues beyond hitherto stated virtues not to be seen in other kings. His virtues cannot be counted and they are the best in the world. Seeing that type of virtuous Rama, Dasaratha along with his ministers, decided to make Rama the prince.
The wise Dasaratha said that there was sign of a great alarm being forecast because of comet like things found in earth heaven and the sky. He also told the ministers that his body was getting aged. He recognized that if Rama were crowned as king, he would not have worries as Rama had beautiful face as a full moon; was a great wise man; and was liked by the people.
The righteous Dasaratha was hurried with concern in the coronation of Rama as it is for his own benefit and for the benefit of people. Because it is as per his liking and also as the appropriate time has come. Dasaratha called for other kings and officers staying in various cities and villages in his kingdom separately.
The hurried Dasaratha did not call for the king Kekaya, the maternal uncle of Bharatha or the King Janaka as he thought they both could hear the good news even afterwards. The king Dasaratha presented them suitably with houses and jewelry. Duly adorned himself, he looked after them in the manner Lord Brahma looks after his children. All the invited kings, duly liked by their people, entered the assembly after the king Dasaratha , who annihilates the opponent's army, occupied his seat.
The kings thus entered, occupied their various seats allotted to them by the king, by facing toward the king as per the prescribed rules. Surrounded by the respected and humble kings sitting closely to him as well as the important heads of cities and villages, king Dasaratha shone like lord Devendra surrounded by celestials.
Thus completes 1st Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 2
| Dasaratha mentions his desire about coronation of Rama before the assembly of people. All people in the assembly unanimously and delightfully accept it while describing all of Rama's virtues. |
Addressing invited gathering in the court, Dasaratha spoke in friendly, pleasing and clear terms. In a loud voice resembling that of a kettle-drum, resounding the air like a thundering cloud and in a sweet splendid and incomparable voice endowed with the characteristics of a king's voice, King Dasaratha the lord of men spoke to the kings as follows:
"It is well known that my excellent kingdom was ruled by my ancestral kings as if it were their son. I have a desire that this entire land which was protected by the descendents of Ikshvaaku dynasty, be bestowed with goodness and the resultant happiness. Following the path established by my ancestors, I have always protected my people with alertness and to the best of my ability. In conducting the kingdom for benefit of the entire people, my body became impaired under shade of the white umbrella."
"This body has been living for many thousands of years. Hence I desire rest. This burden of worldly righteousness is very heavy. This can be sustained only by royal power with qualities like courage and valor. A person who has no control of senses can not carry this burden. I have become tired while carrying this burden of righteousness. I desire to take rest, entrusting the rule to my son for the benefit of the people, after obtaining consent from all those best Brahmans who are close to me."
"My eldest son Rama is equal to Devendra in valor. He is the conqueror of cities of enemies. He is equal to me in all qualities. Joyfully, I shall appoint Rama, who shines like the moon together with Pushya star, who is the best among the protectors of righteousness and who is an excellent man, to the realm of prince. If Rama becomes the lord, the three worlds also will have the best master. He is a glorious man. That Rama is the only fittest lord for the kingdom. By entrusting this kingdom to Rama, I shall be thus doing an immediate good and shall be devoid of difficulties."
"I am telling this after lot of thinking. Give consent to me if you feel this to be good and befitting. How else shall I do it? This is my desire. Yet, let there be thinking on any other beneficial way. Thinking by impartial neutral people will be distinctive and well developed through grinding of opposing views."
Those delighted kings complimented king Dasaratha so speaking with a loud applause as the peacocks cry in delight when they see the raining great cloud. That building appeared trembling by the sweet and reverberating sound made by the gathering of people there with their fond uproar. After understanding the opinion of King Dasaratha, who knew the holy and worldly matters, the Brahmans, important people, urban and rural citizens came to a consensus after discussing together and told the aged king as follows.
"Oh king! You are an elderly person with thousands of years of age. Hence, inaugurate Rama as the ruling prince. All of us want to see Rama, with long arms, the hero with great might born in the clan of Raghu , his face protected by a white umbrella, moving on a great elephant."
King Dasaratha, after hearing their words, spoke as follows as though he did not know their mind earlier and sought to know their true intention.
"Oh kings, I have a doubt as to why you want Raghava to be the king immediately after hearing my words. Inform your real opinion in this matter. Why do you desire to see my son as the prince, when I am ruling this earth with righteousness?"
Those kings together with urban and rural citizens after hearing those words spoke to the great soul Dasaratha as follows: "Oh king! Your son Rama has many auspicious virtues".
"Oh king! We shall tell you now the various virtues of your wise son, listen to them. His qualities are equal to those of celestials. They are liked by all. They give happiness to all. Rama is equal to Devendra in heavenly qualities. He has true valor. He is greater than all the kings born in Ikshvaaku clan. Rama is the world renowned gentleman. He is keenly interested in truth and righteousness. Only Rama can make both righteousness and wealth combine without separation. He is equal to moon in making the people happy; equal to the earth in the quality of forgiveness; equal to Brihaspati in wisdom and verily to Devendra in valour."
"Rama knows all righteousness. He is true to his word and has good character. He has no envy. He has patience. He consoles those who are in troubles. He speaks good words. He has gratitude. He keeps senses under control. Rama is soft natured; has stable mind, always an auspicious man, and has no envy. He speaks truthful and loving words to all living beings. He worships aged Brahmans endued with the knowledge of various sciences. By that, his name, glory and splendor are growing in this world."
"He is skilled in the use of various weapons known to celestials, demons and men. He has duly concluded his vow of studying the various sciences and has systematically learnt all the Vedas along with its branches. *"
* Branches of Vedas: - (six in number): 1.Siksha or phonetics 2.Vyakarana or Grammar 3. Chandas or Prosody 4. Nirukta or Etymology 5. Jyautisha or Astronomy 6. Kalpa or the branch of knowledge prescribing the ritual and giving rules for the ceremonial or sacrificial acts.
"Rama is best in the world in the art of music. He has best relatives. He is gentle. He is not weak in mind. He has great wisdom. Rama was trained in all matters from the best of Brahmans skilled in the art of righteousness and in the science of political economy. If it is necessary to go to a battle to protect a village or a city, Rama goes with Lakshmana and returns home only after obtaining victory."
"After returning from battle, Rama goes to citizens on an elephant or a chariot and inquires about their well being as though they were his own kinsmen, like a father does to his sons. He asks about their wives and children, about the sacred fires, about their servants and students, always completely as per the due order. Rama the best among men always asks us 'Are your disciples serving you by keenly performing their actions?' "
"Rama feels very sad towards afflictions of men; and feels delighted in all functions celebrated by people on the occasions of child birth and the like, just as their own father does. Rama speaks only truth. He is a great hero. He serves elders. He kept the senses under control. Rama, who talks smilingly, protects righteousness in all ways. Rama duly procures beneficent deeds. He is not interested in wrangling talks. He is an orator like Brihaspati by his replies and rejoinders."
"Rama, who enchants the world, has beautiful eyebrows. He has red and broad eyes. He is absolutely like the God Vishnu himself in strength, heroism and valour. He knew the ins and outs of public administration. His senses are not afflicted by passion. He is capable of administering not only earth, but also the three worlds. Rama's anger or mercy is not arbitrary at any time. He kills those who are to be slain as per rules. He is not angered at the innocent."
"He gladly bestows wealth to those with whom he is satisfied. As the sun shines by his rays, Rama shines by his qualities that are peaceful, which are enchanting and delightful to men. All people desire Rama, who is endowed with this wealth of qualities, who has true valour, who is equal to presiding deities like Devendra, to be their lord."
"Oh king Dasaratha! Rama is born to you as a son, because of your good fortune, for the welfare of this world. He has all the virtues befitting of a son, like Kasyapa, the son of Marichi. All people in the state including those in the capital as well as those in the nearby and in the far off places, pray for long life, health and strength of Rama of reputed nature."
"Both young and aged women are praying with a stable mind each morning and evening to all celestials, for the benefit of renowned Rama. Oh best of kings, Dasaratha ! We shall see Rama adorned with princely kingdom. Your son Rama has the complexion of a black lotus flower and annihilates all his enemies. Let the wish of the people be fulfilled by your grace. Oh fulfiller of people's desires, Dasaratha! For our benefit, you gladly and immediately inaugurate your son Rama, who is equal to Vishnu, who is interested in the welfare of the entire world and who is possessing the best of virtues."
Thus completes 2nd Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 3
| Dasaratha, glad after hearing the words of assembled people, requests Vasishta and Vamadeva to start arrangements for the anointing ceremony of Rama. Vasishta and Vamadeva order the officers present there to make all arrangements, describing them in detail. Dasaratha then orders Sumantra to bring Rama to the assembly. After letting Rama know of his desire, Dasaratha then advises Rama on how to rule the kingdom for the benefit of the people. |
King Dasaratha, accepted their salutations with folded hands resembling lotus buds and spoke good and agreeable words to them as follows:- "Oh! I am very much pleased and incomparable is my fortune in that you desire my beloved elder son to be anointed as prince. "
King Dasaratha, thus duly returning the honor done by them, spoke while they were listening, to Vasishta, Vamadeva and other Brahmans as follows: "This is the glorious and auspicious month of Chaitra, in which the forests bloom with flowers. Let all arrangements be made for the coronation of Rama as prince." While these words of the king were being completed, there was a great delightful uproar of the people.
When their applause gradually subsided, King Dasaratha spoke the following words to the best of sages, Vasishta. "Oh Divine Vasishta! Be pleased to order now for the traditional ceremonial that is to be done and various accessories needed for the anointing ceremony of Rama."
Vasishta, the best of Brahmans, hearing the words of king Dasaratha, ordered the officers who stood there with folded hands before the king, as follows: - "Gather the following in the sacred fire house of the king at dawn: gold and the like, diamonds, things needed to perform worship, various herbs, white floral garlands, corn, honey and clarified butter in separate vessels, new clothes, chariot, all weapons, the four divisions of army, an elephant with auspicious signs, white fan, flag staff, white umbrella, one hundred golden pots with brilliant shine, bull with gilded horns and a complete tiger skin".
"If any other small things are required, arrange for all of them. Let the doorways of the royal palace and those of the entire city be worshipped with sandalwood paste, floral garlands and good smelling incense. Let fine rice of good quality with milk and yogurt, fully sufficient for one hundred thousand Brahmans be arranged. Let that rice be given with due respect to important Brahmans tomorrow at dawn; along with clarified butter, yogurt, corn, and lot of gifts."
"There will be an invocation for the well being of all, tomorrow at sun rise. Let brahmanas be invited and suitable seats be arranged for them. Let the flags be hung and the royal highways be sprinkled with water. Let well dressed dancers and musicians wait in second enclosure in the royal compound. As worshipping is to be done in temples and at road junctions, let some deserving people gather there with rice, eatables, presents and garlands separately. Let all the warriors enter the well developed front yard of the royal palace with long swords, armors and clean clothing."
Those wise men Vasishta and Vamadeva attentively ordered for all those things to be done there, informed that to king Dasaratha and performed the remaining things also. Pleased and satisfied with the arrangements made Vasishta and Vamadeva approached king Dasaratha and told him that all had been done according to his words.
Afterwards, Dasaratha spoke to Sumantra "Let Rama, who has a disciplined intellect, be brought by you immediately."
As commanded by the king, Sumantra brought there, Rama, the best of charioteers, in a chariot. Afterwards the kings belonging to east, west, north, south as well as those belonging to Mlechha kingdom, Aryaa Vartha kingdom and those ruling in hill and forest areas sat there and attended on King Dasaratha as celestials attended on Devendra.
The sage king Dasaratha, sitting in the midst of those kings like Devendra in the middle of the celestials, saw from the palace itself, his son Rama arriving in a chariot. Rama was as beautiful as the king of Gandharvas. His valiance was world famous. He had great strength and walked like a vigorous elephant. He had long arms, and with his enchanting face, he looked like the moon. He stole the eyes and minds of the people by his looks, generosity and virtues. King Dasaratha was thus not satiated enough in seeing Rama, coming like a cloud that gladdens people by relieving them from the scorching summer heat. Sumantra helped Rama to get down from the excellent chariot and with folded hands followed behind Rama, who approached his father. Rama, the best among men, ascended the steps of the palace, which resembled Mount Kailaasa, along with Sumantra, to see the king Dasaratha.
Rama with folded hands approached his father, bowed down mentioning his own name and offered salutations to his father's feet. King Dasaratha took into his embrace that beloved son who was standing humbly beside him with folded hands.
King Dasaratha gave Rama a great throne, which was high, excellent and beautiful, decorated with gold and diamonds. Rama, occupying that great throne, caused it to shine with his own brightness, just as the spotless sun in the morning causes Meru mountain to shine with brilliance. Rama by his brilliance made that assembly to shine, just as the moon shines the clear autumnal sky, with the dimless stars and planets. King Dasaratha was as delighted in seeing his beloved son, as one delights in seeing oneself adorned, in a mirror. King Dasaratha, the best among those who have sons, smilingly conversed with his son, and addressed Rama as follows, as Kasyapa does to (his eldest son) Devendra (the ruler of gods).
"Oh Rama! You are an exemplary son born to my exemplary elder wife. Being excellent in virtues, you are beloved son to me. As you with your good qualities cherished these people, you get the princely kingdom on the day of Pushyami star (when the moon appears in conjunction with the constellation Pushya).. Oh, son! By nature, you are very humble and virtuous. Even then, because of my friendship with you, I can tell you this for your benefit. Be even more humble and always keep the senses under control. Leave the bad habits born out of desire and wrath. Through direct and indirect means, keep ministers and others happy. Like the celestials becoming happy after obtaining the nectar, friends of a king (ruler of earth) are delighted when he fills the granaries and armories to the brim, making the common people delightful and happy. Hence, you too act like this."
The well -wishers of Rama, after hearing those words, intending to do good to Kausalya, immediately came to her and informed the matter to her. The best among women, Kausalya gave away gold, cows and different types of diamonds to those who informed her good news. Rama, after offering salutations to king Dasaratha, ascended the chariot and went to his splendid house after being worshipped by the crowds on the way.
Having heard those words of the king, seeing their dearest wish gratified, the citizens took leave of the King Dasaratha and returned to their homes full of joy, in order to give thanks and render homage to the Gods.
Thus completes 3rd Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 4
| Dasaratha decides to coronate Rama as the prince the next day. He asks Sumantra to bring Rama to his presence once again. After Rama arrives, Dasaratha expresses to Rama his desire to anoint Rama as a prince the very next day. He cites various bad dreams and inauspicious signs as the reason for his haste. Rama thus informed by his father, goes to his mother's house and informs her of the good news. Kausalya becomes delighted at the news and gives Rama her blessings. |
After the citizens left, Dasaratha who was efficient in taking decisions pertaining to place and time of ceremonies, again conferred with the ministers and decided thus: "Tomorrow will be a day when the constellation of Pushya would be in the ascendant. My son Rama, who has eyes like red lotus, can be crowned as a prince tomorrow.
Thereafter, king Dasaratha entered the inner palace and then ordered Sumantra thus, "Bring Rama again here".
Obeying the king's words, Sumantra went to Rama's house immediately to bring Rama once again. The doorkeepers informed Rama that Sumantra had come again. Hearing that, Rama was uncertain as to the reason for Sumantra's arrival again. Rama immediately allowed Sumantra inside and spoke these words to him: "Tell me completely the purpose of your arrival again."
Hearing those words, Sumantra said: "King Dasaratha wants to see you. Decide yourself in this matter whether to proceed to your father or otherwise".
Rama, after hearing Sumantra's words, started immediately and went to the royal palace to see king Dasaratha, the Lord of people, again. Hearing Rama to have arrived, king Dasaratha allowed him to come into the house, to tell him an excellent and affectionate word. The glorious Rama, soon after entering his father's house, saw his father from a distance and fell prostrate before him in an act of submission, with his palms joined together. Dasaratha lifted Rama up and took him into his embrace. Then, he offered a beautiful seat to Rama and spoke to him as follows:
"Oh Rama, I have now become aged after living for a long period. I enjoyed all the luxuries in life, as I desired. I propitiated Gods by performing hundreds of sacrifices, in which food and lots of fees were given away to the officiating priests. You are now born to me as without an equal on earth and as my beloved child. I had given away lots of donations, I had performed holy rites and I have also studied Vedas and other Holy Scriptures during my life time."
"Oh gallant Rama! I also enjoyed all the comforts, as I desired. Thus I am relieved of all debts to the celestials (by performing holy sacrifices), to the sages (by studying Vedas etc.), to my ancestors (by begetting you), to the Brahmans (by giving away donations and food) and to myself (by enjoying all comforts as I desired)."
"I have no duty other than to anoint you for the crown. Hence, do what I tell you. Now all the people want you to be the king. Hence, I can install you as prince. Oh, Rama! It is not only the people's desire, but also these days I am getting fearful and inauspicious dreams. Here, thunderous comets are falling with great sound, during day time."
"Oh, Rama! Astrologers are informing me that fearful planets like Sun, Mars and Rahu are encroaching my birth star. Whenever such inauspicious signs are produced, the king generally will get either death or a fearful accident. Oh, Rama! Hence, before my mind gets changed, get you anointed to the crown. Are not the minds of men unstable? Today, the moon is entering the constellation known as Punarvasu which comes before Pushyami star. The astrologers inform that the coronation ceremony can be fixed for tomorrow, when the moon joins Pushyami star. Hence, get anointed for the crown on the day of Pushyami star. My mind is urging me as it were to expedite things. O, annihilator of the enemies! I shall anoint you for the princely kingdom tomorrow."
"That is why, with self control, you along with your wife should observe fast for this night from now onwards, and sleep on a couch made of Kusha grass. Generally, there are many obstacles for such type of functions. Hence, your friends should guard you vigilantly from all directions. It is my opinion that your coronation function should occur, while Bharata is away from the city. Bharata, your brother, goes according to his eldest brother. He is righteous, compassionate and has the senses under control. He verily follows the path of good people."
"Oh, Rama! It is my opinion that minds of men are inconstant. But the ever righteous, endowed with goodness, sometimes may act unexpectedly on impulse."
Dasaratha, after telling in this way about the ensuing coronation ceremony scheduled for the next day, permitted Rama to depart. Rama offered his salutations to his father and went to his house. After hearing the decision of Dasaratha regarding coronation ceremony, Rama entered his house and by starting immediately, went to his mother's queenly house. There, in the queen's worshipping place, Rama saw Kausalya silently in meditation, wearing silk clothes and praying to goddess Lakshmi.
Hearing the good news of the coronation ceremony of Rama, Sumitra and Lakshmana came there even before Seetha was brought. At that time, Kausalya closed her eyes and was in meditation. Along with her, Sumitra, Lakshmana and Seetha were sitting nearby.
Hearing that her son will be anointed for the princely kingdom on the day of Pushyami star, Kausalya with controlled breath, was meditating on lord Vishnu. Rama approached his mother, even while she was engaged in pious observance, offered salutation and spoke the following words making her delighted.
"Oh, mother! My father ordered that I should rule the people. As per his orders, there will be anointing ceremony to me tomorrow. Seetha too, along with me should observe fast this whole night. The father together with preceptors and teachers said this to me. Have all the auspicious rites that are required for the ensuing tomorrow's anointment ceremony, performed to me and to Seetha today."
Hearing the news of anointment ceremony, which was being desired by her for a long time, Kausalya spoke to Rama the following sweet words with tears of joy in her eyes.
"Oh, child Rama! You live a long life! Let your enemies be destroyed! Let the cousins of mine and of Sumitra be made happy by your glory. O, my little son! You were born to me on a day of an auspicious star. That is why, your father king Dasaratha was propitiated by your virtues. My worship to the lotus eyed Lord Vishnu with endurance has become fruitful. Hence, this glorious kingdom of Ikshvaku dynasty is going to embrace you."
Rama, after hearing the words spoken by his mother, saw his brother Lakshmana who was sitting humbly nearby with joined palms and spoke to him smilingly as follows: "O, Lakshmana! You rule this earth together with me. This glorious kingdom has reached you, who are my second conscience. You enjoy the benefits as desired by you and the fruits of kingdom. I desire to live and even to rule the kingdom but for you."
Rama, after speaking thus to Lakshmana, offered salutations to both the mothers, got Seetha to obtain permission from them and went to his house along with Seetha.
Thus completes 4th Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 5
| On the wish of King Dasaratha, Vasishta goes to Rama's palace and asks him to perform fast that night along with Seetha. Vasishta returns to Dasaratha's palace and informs him about this. On the way to the king's palace Vasishta observes the festive atmosphere in Ayodhya anticipating Rama's coronation the next day. |
After Rama left, king Dasaratha called for his family priest Vasishta and spoke to him as follows about the ensuing anointment ceremony of the next day. O, great sage Vasishta! Please go to the avowed Rama and Seetha today to make them perform fasting for obtaining prosperity, glory and sovereignty. Vasista, who is the best of knowers of Veda, who is expert in mantras, who is firm in austerities and who is divine, said to Dasaratha : "I agree to it" and personally went to Rama's house on a chariot which was ready and quite suitable for a Brahman, so as to advise Rama to undertake a fast with mantras performed by Rama, a knower of mantras .
That great sage reached Rama's house, which was radiant like a dense white cloud and entered the three gateways of the house by the chariot itself. To respect the honorable sage who arrived, Rama came quickly and hurriedly out of the house. Rama quickly got nearer to Vasishta's chariot and personally helped him to alight from the chariot.
That family priest Vasishta seeing that lovable and humble Rama, spoke the following words, bringing cheerfulness and happiness to him: O, Rama! Your father is delighted with you. You will be getting the princely kingdom. Hence, you and Seetha perform fasting today. Your father, King Dasaratha is anointing you affectionately for the princely kingdom tomorrow at dawn, even as king Nahusha has done to Yayati".
Vasistha thus spoke to Rama and enjoined him to undertake a vow of fasting together with Seetha, in the accompaniment of mantras.
Thereafter, Rama worshipped the royal priest Vasistha suitably. Vasistha then got Rama's permission and left his house. Rama spent some time by delightedly talking with friends and having been congratulated by them in various ways went into his palace after taking leave of them.
Then, Rama's house was shining as brilliantly with delighted men and women as a lake filled with opened lotuses and visited by innumerable happy birds.
Vasishta, leaving Rama's house, which seemed like the royal palace, saw the way filled with people. All the royal highways in the city of Ayodhya were filled with groups and groups of delighted people and became congested.
Then, on the royal road, the resonance created by the rush of the people moving hither and thither like waves combined with their rejoicing, resounded like the roar of an ocean. On that day, in the city of Ayodhya, all the roads were cleaned and sprinkled with water. There were rows of trees on both sides of the roads and flags hoisted on houses.
Then, the people of Ayodhya including children, women and the old-aged were waiting for sunrise, wishing the anointment ceremony of Rama to happen.
In Ayodhya, people were enthusiastic to see the great public function, which was decorative to the community and which would bring forward an increased joy. Vasishta, thus seeing the king's way being overcrowded with people, reached the royal palace slowly by forcing a passage through that crowd. He walked up the royal palace, which was akin to the top of a mountain enclosed by a white cloud and met king Dasaratha in the manner Brihaspati met Devendra.
Seeing Vasistha had returned, King Dasaratha alighted from his throne and asked him with regard to his mission. Vasistha informed him that it was accomplished. The members of assembly who were sitting along with the king till then, raised in obeisance to Vasishta from their seats, following the example of the king.
King Dasaratha, after obtaining permission from Vasishta, left that assembly of men and entered his palace as a lion enters a mountain cave. That palace with women in top dress and form was like the palace of Devendra. By the entering of King Dasaratha, the palace became more radiant, just as the moon radiates a beautiful sky with its stars.
Thus completes 5th Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 6
| In this chapter Valmiki narrates various rituals undertaken by Rama the crown prince, along with his wife Seetha, on the eve of his anointment ceremony. The festivities in Ayodhya, the happiness of the people with King Dasaratha's decision to anoint Rama are also described here. Also, people from different directions arrive in Ayodhya to be there on the grand occasion. |
After Vasistha left, Rama took bath and meditated on Lord Narayana with undistracted mind along with his wide-eyed wife, Seetha. Taking the vessel with clarified butter on his head as per scriptures, he offered to Lord Vishnu the clarified butter, by dropping it into the blazing fire.
Rama ate the remainder of clarified butter after finishing the sacrifice, which he performed for his own good, silently meditated on Lord Narayana with controlled mind and slept along with Seetha on a properly laid bed of Kusa grass in a splendid temple of Lord Vishnu. *
* The learned commentators point out that the deity referred to here is no other than Lord Ranganatha, who had been worshipped by a long line of rulers of Ayodhya as their chosen deity in a separate shrine built within the precincts of the royal palace. We are told at length in the Patala Khanda of Padma Purana how Rama so kindly handed over the image to Vibhishana; through whom it reached Srirangam (near Tiruchirapally) in South India; where it exists even to this day and is held in the highest reverence by the Vaishnavas and other devotees all over India.
Rama woke up three hours before dawn and caused to complete the entire decoration of the house. Listening to the pleasing verses of professional reciters, he worshipped the early sunrise and meditated on Gayatri* with an undistracted mind.
* Gayatri is an ancient meter of twenty-four syllables as a triplet of eight syllables each (Rigveda iii-62-10: - tat savitur varenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi dhiyo yo nah prachodayat) addressed to Savitri or the Sun as generator. Gayatri personified is considered as the mother of the first three classes viz. priestly class, warrior - class and the trader-class in their capacity of twice born.
He praised Lord Vishnu by bowing his head before Him. By wearing pure silk clothes, he got valedictory text recited by Brahmans. Their deep and sweet chorus of the valedictory, united with the accompanying musical instruments, then filled the city of Ayodhya.
All the people residing in Ayodhya were delighted when they heard that Rama and Seetha had observed fast for the ensuing anointment ceremony. All the citizens decorated the town for coronation function of Rama, soon before sunrise. Banners and colorful flags were hoisted on temples, which looked brilliantly like the silver lining of cloud, at road junctions, in streets, on big trees situated in temple compounds, from watching towers at city gates, on shops of wealthy merchants, on buildings of rich family persons, on all assembly halls and all visible trees.
From different sides, actors were showing their talents, dancers were performing dance. Singers were singing and sweet voices were heard, pleasing the minds and ears. With Rama's anointment ceremony approaching, people were engaged in mutual conversations in their houses and at road junctions, about the ceremony.
Even children playing together before gateways of houses were telling each other, narratives of Rama's anointment ceremony. The citizens made king's road splendid, by sprinkling flowers on it and by making it good smelling with burning of incense and perfumes, on the occasion of Rama's anointment ceremony.
On a doubt of approach of night on completion of the ceremony, they arranged lamps in the shape of trees to illuminate all the streets. All the citizens residing in Ayodhya, having thus decorated the city desiring Rama's coronation, gathered together in groups at road junctions and in assembly halls, mutually talking about this matter there and praising king Dasaratha.
"O! This king Dasaratha, who delights Ikshvaaku dynasty, having known himself that he became aged, is going to anoint Rama for the kingdom. What a great man he is! Rama; who has seen the totality of the world is going to become our protector for long. We have all been blessed by king Dasaratha. Rama is modest, knowledgeable and righteous. He is as compassionate to us as to his brothers. Let the faultless and righteous king Dasaratha live long! Due to his blessings, we are going to see Rama as being anointed for the kingdom."
The villagers, who came from different directions after hearing the news of coronation ceremony of Rama, listened to the narration of the citizens of Ayodhya. The city of Ayodhya was filled with villagers who came from different directions to see the anointment ceremony of Rama. The noise in the city was heard by the groups of those people, while moving here and there, as the roaring of an impetuous ocean on full moon days.
That city of Ayodhya equal to the residence of the celestial god Indra, disturbed with the sound being made all over by the villagers who came with the desire to see the ceremony, shone like a roaring ocean filled with sea animals.
Thus completes 6th Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 7
| Manthara feels very sad after hearing about anointment of Rama for the princely kingdom. She tells Kaikeyi about the coronation of Rama. Kaikeyi becomes delighted and gives Manthara one of her jewels. |
Manthara, a housemaid who was residing with Kaikeyi since her birth, accidentally ascended the balcony of Kaikeyi's white palace, which resembled the full moon. From that balcony, she saw the entire city of Ayodhya, with all its principal roads being sprinkled with water and strewn with heaps of flowers.
Manthara further saw from that balcony the city decorated with the best of flags and banners. The roads were cleared for uninterrupted traffic. All the people took head-bath. Brahmans with flowers and sweets in their hands were chanting Mantras. The gateways of temples were white washed. There were sounds of all musical instruments. The city was filled with rejoicing people and resounding chant of Vedas. The elephants and horses were also merry. The bulls were making roaring noise. The highly delighted citizens hoisted rows of flags on their housetops.
Manthara asked a house maid with bright pleasing eyes and wearing white silk clothes standing nearby, as follows: - "Why is Kausalya giving away money to people so delightfully today in charity, even though she is badly lured of money?"
"Why are people so happy today? Is the king duly pleased with something, doing any great act? Tell me."
That housemaid, bursting with joy, told Manthara in a great gladdening tone about the great honor to be conferred upon Rama.
"Tomorrow on the day of Pushyami star, king Dasaratha is going to anoint the fault-less Rama for the princely kingdom."
After hearing the words of that maid, Manthara quickly with wrath walked down from the roof of the palace, which was in the shape of mount Kailasa. Manthara of sinful thought; burning with anger, approached Kaikeyi who was lying on a bed and spoke these words: "O, fool! Get up. Why are you sleeping? A dreadful situation is befalling you. A flood of troubles submerges you. Why are you not knowing this yourself? Oh, Kaikeyi ! You appear to be a beloved wife for your husband, but in reality he does not like you. You boast of your fortune. Like the flow of a stream in summer; your fortune is unsteady".
Kaikeyi was very much worried after hearing hard words spoken with anger by Manthara of sinful thoughts. Kaikeyi asked the hunch-backed Manthara as follows; "O, Manthara! Are you not safe? You appear to be very sorrowful with your worried face".
After hearing Kaikeyi's sweet words, Manthara who was an expert in talking, spoke with anger. That Manthara, who was full of cunning, feigning to be seeking Kaikeyi's welfare, appeared more worried, and making Kaikeyi sorrowful, spoke the following, to create hostility between Rama and Kaikeyi. "Oh, queen! An unending great ruin has encircled you. King Dasaratha is going to anoint Rama for the princely kingdom. I am immersed in a bottomless pit of fear. I am in distress and my mind is burning as if by fire. I hastened here to seek you out. Kaikeyi! If Rama becomes king, his son will become king after him. Thus, Bharata's name itself will be removed from the royal clan."
"Oh, Kaikeyi! Having born in a royal family and being an emperor's wife, how is it that you are not knowing about the cruelty in kingly duties? Your husband talks about righteousness, but does harm secretly. He says sweet words but behaves cruelly. Because of your clean thinking; you are not able to know that he is cheating you thus."
"Your husband approaches you and talks good words, which are useless. But he passes on benefit today to Kausalya only. The evil minded Dasaratha sent Bharata to the house of his relatives and at dawn, is going to install Rama on the throne without hindrance. O, childish one! Like a mother, you wish for his well being. But he is an enemy, and is called husband for a namesake. He is like a poisonous serpent in your bosom."
"King Dasaratha has acted towards you and your son today in the same way as an enemy or a serpent would behave if ignored. O, stupid one! With his untruthful sweet words to you, who are ever deserving of ease, the evil minded king is installing Rama on the throne and is thus ruining you along with your son. O, Kaikeyi, of amazing beauty! You have to take timely action immediately, so as to save yourself, your son and me too."
Hearing Manthara's words, that Kaikeyi of charming countenance who was lying in bed, rose from her coach full of delight like unto the crescent moon in autumn. That Kaikeyi in the midst of her astonishment and joy gave a graceful jewel to the hunch-backed Manthara. Kaikeyi, the best among women, gave a jewel to Manthara and spoke to her as follows:
"Oh, Manthara! You informed much gladdening news to me. What else can I do for you, who informed such a good news? I do not see any difference between Rama and Bharata. That is why, I am happy that Rama is being anointed for crown by the king. You do merit every favor. I have no other pleasant news than this. Hence, you cannot ever again inform a better loving news than this. I shall give you a good boon. Ask for it!"
Thus completes 7th Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 8
| Manthara with her wicked thoughts tries to convince Kaikeyi of the possible misfortune that could occur to Kaikeyi and her family if Sri Rama becomes the King. Although Kaikeyi's initial reaction is to praise Rama's qualities; her mind is slowly but surely poisoned by Manathara's sinful words. |
Manthara, becoming indignant with Kaikeyi, threw down the ornament given to her and with anger and distress spoke the following words: "O, foolish one! Not knowing that you are in the midst of an ocean of trouble, what is it that you are so delighted about, in a matter to be grieved? Though stricken with grief, I mentally laugh at you in that you are rejoicing at the time when a great calamity is befalling you."
"I am lamenting over your foolish mind. Does any intelligent woman feel happy over the prosperity of a stepson who is considered an enemy? Does it not amount to praising a befalling death? Rama has a fear about Bharata because Bharata has equal rights over the kingdom. In thinking about this matter, I am getting anguished. Do we not get disasters from those who are afraid of us?"
"Lakshmana, wielding a great bow, joined Rama with all his heart. Shatrughna is as faithful to Bharata as Lakshmana to Rama. yi! In line with even the proximity of birth; the claim to the throne of Bharata alone can be pressed, that of Lakshmana and Satrughna who are younger is out of question."
"Rama is a learned man and a political statesman. His actions are timely and appropriate. When thinking of your son's calamity to be resulted from Rama, I get shaken with fear. Kausalya is very fortunate. Brahmans are going to anoint her son for the great princely kingdom tomorrow on the day of Pushyami star".
"With folded arms, as a maid-servant, you have to serve that Kausalya who having reached great prosperity, in the height of joy, will dispose of her adversaries (in the person of Bharata and yourself). Thus, if you become Kausalya's servant-maid along with us, your son Bharata will be Rama's attendant. Rama's wives will get delighted. Your daughters-in-law will be unhappy because of Bharata's waning position."
Comment: The words 'Rama's wives' here do not indicate that Rama had multiple wives. Manathara refers to a possible future where Rama being a King would marry other women. It was a norm then for a king to have more than one wife.
Hearing Manthara speak thus in many distasteful words, Kaikeyi began to extol Rama's virtues, saying: "Rama knows all righteousness. Elders trained him. He has a proper gratitude. He speaks truth. He has a clean conduct. He is the eldest son of king Dasaratha and hence eligible for the kingdom. The long living Rama will protect his brothers and servants like a father. O, the hunch backed one! Why are you so pained on hearing about Rama's coronation?"
"After Rama's rule for one hundred years, Bharata the best among men will certainly replace Rama on his father's throne, which is that of his ancestors. Oh, Manthara! When we got an occasion for rejoicing as at present and when a festive occasion is to come off in future (too in the form of Bharata's installation, no matter even if it comes after a hundred years), why do you feel agonized like this as though burning (with jealousy)?"
"For me, Rama is as lovable as Bharata and even more. Is he not doing more service to me than to Kausalya? If Rama has kingdom then Bharata has it as well. Rama esteems his brothers just as his own self."
Manthara, after hearing Kaikeyi's words, felt very sad and after a long and hot sigh, spoke to her the following words: "On one side, you are getting immersed in an ocean of sorrow filled with misery and danger. But due to stupidity, you are not able to perceive the truth and you fail to assess your real position."
"O, Kaikeyi! If Rama becomes the king, his son will become the king after him in succession. Thus, Bharata's name itself will be removed from the royal clan. O, Kaikeyi! All the sons of a king will not be crowned for a kingdom. If all are installed, there will be a great lawlessness. Therefore, kings, O, Kaikeyi of faultless limbs, install their eldest son, eventhough others may be full of virtues, as their successor to the throne."
"Oh, Kaikeyi the affectionate one! Your son will be completely distant from comforts and even from the royal clan; like an orphan. I came here in your interests. But you have not understood me. You think it fit to give me a present when your step-wife is getting prospered."
"Rama, ascending the throne without hindrance, will either send away Bharata to some other country or have him put to death. This is certain. You sent Bharata to his maternal uncle's house even in his childhood. By being nearer, love is born even on inanimate objects. By sending Bharata to a distant place, you made Dasaratha to have no affection towards him. Shatrughna was drawn towards Bharata and went along with him. Just as Lakshmana joined Rama, Shatrughna joined Bharata."
Comment: Sage Valmiki might be implying here that if Shatrughna were to be present then at Ayodhya, he would have tried for the prosperity of Bharata.
"We hear that a tree marked down for felling by foresters, when covered by thorny Ishhiika grass, is saved from this great danger of cutting. So also, Dasaratha might have supported Bharata if he was staying near to him in Ayodhya. Lakshmana protects Rama. Rama protects Lakshmana. Their brotherly love is as famous as that of Aswini celestials. Hence, Rama will not do a sinful act of killing Lakshmana. However there is no doubt that he will do so in the case of Bharata."
"Hence, I feel that it is better for your son to go to forest directly from his uncle's house. This is good for you too. If Bharata gets his father's kingdom as per law, it will be beneficial to you and your side of relatives. Your youthful son, habituated to comforts, is a natural enemy to Rama. How can Bharata who failed to achieve his purpose live under control of Rama; whose flourishing object has been realised?"
"Rama is chasing and bringing down Bharata as a lion chases an elephant-king in forest. You ought to protect Bharata. Previously, you treated Kausalya with disrespect due to arrogance that you were fortunate. Will not such Kausalya, your rival wife, revenge for that animosity? O, Kaikeyi! The day Rama becomes lord of this earth with its great oceans, mountains and towns; that day you and your Bharata will get a bad and pitiable position of ignominy."
"When Rama gets power of the kingdom Bharata will certainly get ruined. Hence, think of a solution to get your son Bharata the kingdom and to send Rama, your enemy, to exile."
Thus completes 8th Chapter of Ayodhya Kanda of the glorious Ramayana of Valmiki, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 9
This chapter describes Manthara's success in turning Kaikeyi's mind away from good towards evil.
After hearing those words, Kaikeyi with her face burning with anger, had a long and hot sigh and spoke to Manthara as follows: "Now itself, I shall send Rama quickly to forest. I shall get Bharata anointed for princely kingdom immediately. O Manthara! What is the means by which Bharata will get the kingdom but Rama will not get it by any method ? Think about it now." After hearing her words, the sinful thinking Manthara, spoke thus to Kaikeyi to destroy Rama's benefit of kingdom. "O Kaikeyi! I am very glad. I shall tell you the means by which your son Bharata only will get the kingdom. Listen to it!" "Oh, Kaikeyi! You desire to hear from me the means for your benefit. Have you forgotten about it or are you hiding, even if you have remembered it? O the lady of charms, Kaikeyi! If you desire to hear this from my mouth, I shall tell you. Listen to me. Let it be acted upon after listening to me." After hearing Manthara's words, Kaikeyi slightly rose from the well-laid bed and spoke the following : "O Manthara! Tell me the trick by which Bharata will get the kingdom and Rama will not get it under any circumstances." After hearing Kaikeyi's words, the sinful thinking, hunch backed Manthara, spoke thus, with an intention to destroy Rama's benefit of kingdom. "O Queen! Once upon a time, when there was a battle between celestials and demons, your husband Dasaratha went along with you and other holy kings to help Indra in battle, to a famous city called Vaijaynata in which the demon Timidhvaja lived in a southern direction in the forest of Dandaka." "That great demon famously called shambara, who had several magic effects, defeated all the celestials and conferred battle upon Devendra." "In that great battle, demons approached and forcefully killed men who were injured by arrows and also those who were sleeping at night."
Comment : It is not a virtuous practice according to scriptures, to kill injured people and defenseless people sleeping at night. Demons do not follow such scriptures.
"Then, king Dasaratha fought a great battle there. With their weapons, demons made into pieces the long armed Dasaratha." "O Queen! You saved the life of your unconscious husband by taking him away from the battle field. There also, you again saved him, when beaten by demons with their weapons." "O Kaikeyi with auspicious appearance! Getting delighted, he gave two boons to you. Then, you said, " I shall ask you whenever I require them". He then agreed to it." "O Queen! I do not know what had happened there. You yourself told this story previously to me. I am keeping this in my mind because of my friendship with you. Hence, you have to stop, by force, the arrangements being made for Rama's coronation." "You ask your husband as two boons, anointing Bharata for princely kingdom and sending Rama to exile for fourteen years." If you send Rama to forest for fourteen years, your son Bharata will get intimate association in the hearts of the people and will get stabilised in kingdom. Oh,Kaikeyi! Now, enter the room of wrath as if angry with him and lie down on floor without any spread underneath and wearing soiled clothes. As soon as you see Dasaratha, be sorrowful and keep on weaping, without looking at him and without talking to him face to face. You are always dear to your husband. I have no doubt about it. King Dasaratha will even jump into a fire for your sake. The king is not capable of making you angry. He is not even able to see you with anger. He will give up his life for your love. Oh, foolish one! The king will not be able to transgress your word. You realise your abundant strength. King Dasaratha may offer you diamonds, pearls, gold and various other precious stones. Do not care for them. Oh, Kaikeyi, the great fortunate! you remind Dasaratha of those boons given by him to you in that battle between celestials and demons. See that your benefit does not get thwarted. Dasaratha himself will raise you from the floor and offer you the boon. Thus , after making him steady, you ask for this boon. "Oh, king! send Rama to forest for fourteen years. Let Bharata be made as king of this earth". Rama having been sent to forest for fourteen years, your son will stand firmly, having laid his roots and will stay in power for the remaining period. Oh, Kaikeyi! Ask Dasaratha of sending Rama to forest also as a boon. Thus, your son will accomplish all the desired benefits. Thus , by sending Rama to exile, he will not become amiable to people. Your Bharata will become king, after the enemies having been annihilated. When Rama returns from forest, your wise son will accumulate friends and draw people to his fold, thus establishing roots himself. This is the appropriate time for you. Be fearless and by your insistence, make the king turn aside his effort to anoint Rama.
Kaikeyi, being brain-washed on an unworthy matter as the most worthy matter by Manthara, accepted her well and having delighted, spoke to her as follows:- Though of right thinking in nature, Kaikeyi was very much surprised to hear Manthara's words and like a small girl, got into a wrong path. Oh, Manthara! You are telling very good things. Till now, I have not recognised you as this good. You are the best among the hunch-backed on this earth in making intellectual decisions. Oh, Manthara! you always show interest in my well being and wish for my benefit. But for you, I would not have been aware of the king's intentions. Your chest is appearing equally on both sides and is loftily extended upto the shoulder. Below it is the good novelled stomach, which is lean as though it is shy of seeing the loftiness of chest. Oh, Manthara! with perfect hips and well rounded breasts and with your face like an untainted moon you are shining well. Oh, Manthara! Your waist decorated with golden belt is making sound. Your leg-muscles are well rounded and your feet are tall. Oh, Manthara! You are splendid like a royal swan walking before me, with long thighs and wearing a silk saree. In addition to all those thousand magic effects lying in shambara, the lord of demons, another further thousands of magic effects are lying in you. In your long hunch, which looks like an apex of a chariot, are dwelling your various thoughts, royal arts and magic effects. Oh Manthara! When Rama goes to forest and Bharata gets kingdom, I shall adore this huch back with a golden garland. Oh, Manthara! After accomplishing the benefit desired by me, I shall, with delight, get your hunch back anointed with well refined gold of good quality. Oh, Manthara! I shall get beautiful ornaments made and for your forehead auspicious dots of variety done of pure gold. You will be moving around like an angel, wearing beautiful clothes. You will achieve an important position in the eyes of your adversaries with pride and with your face, incomparably competing with moon. The hunch backed women, adorned with all ornaments, will always do service at your feet, as how as hunch-backed you are doing it to me. Manthara in this way being praised spoke these words to Kaikeyi, who was lying in a clean couch like a flame of fire upon the sacrificial altar. "Oh, Kaikeyi the auspicious one! When water has already flown out, there is no use constructing a dam. Now rise and do this purposeful action. Show your influence to the king."
By surrendering to the words of Manthara and having been thus encouraged by her, Kaikeyi who was with her wide eyes, proud of her intoxicating beauty, a gifted woman and a queen, removed pearl necklace worth in lacs and other great valuable auspicious ornaments from her body, entered the chamber of wrath along with Manthara, lied on the floor there like a golden creeper and spoke to Manthara as follows: "After Rama's going to the forest, Bharata shall get the kingdom. Or else, you inform the king that I died here itself. Neither gold nor diamonds nor ornaments are of any use to me. On which day Rama gets anointed for the kingdom, the same day it will be the end of my life. "
Afterwards, that Manthara agian spoke to the seriously talking mother of Bharata that is Kaikeyi the following words which were beneficial to her and not beneficial in relation to Rama. " If Rama becomes king, you and your son will be destroyed, Oh, Kaikeyi of auspicious qualities! Hence you try for coronation of your son, Bharata "
Having thus hit by arrows of words employed by Manthara again and again, Kaikeyi felt sad, was angry with the king, by keeping hands on her heart, was surprised with the cleverness of Manthara and praised her time and again. " If Rama does not go to forest from here, I do not long for any mattresses or garlands or sandal paste or eye-liner or drink or food or even my life here." Kaikeyi, thus uttering these cruel words, having removed all ornaments, lied on the floor without a mattress like a fallen angel. Kaikeyi, having removed all adornments, having her face covered by the darkness of extreme anger and with her depressed mind, looked like a starless sky in a gloomy night.
Thus completes nighth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 10
In this chapter, Kaikeyi enters the house of wrath. Dasaratha tries to pacify her anger.
Having been thus wrongly preached by that sinful Manthara. Kaikeyi lied down on the floor as a Kinnara woman beaten by a poisoned arrow. The skillful Kaikeyi, after deciding in mind what ought to be done told it all slowly to Manthara. Being stupefied by the words of Manthara, that Kaikeyi became dejected, made firm resolve, with deep and warm sigh, like a maiden-serpent and thought for that moment about the ways which can lead to her happiness. Manthara, who is Kaikeyi's companion and who is desirous of getting benefit, heard of Kaikeyi's firm resolve and became very much pleased as if she achieved success. Kaikeyi, being angry and well determined, lied down on the floor with eye brows, knitted in her face. Thereafter, she threw away her colourful chaplets and beautiful ornaments on to the floor.
Those chaplets and ornaments which were thrown away by her were making the earth shine, as stars to the sky. Tying her single braid of hair tightly over her head and wearing soiled clothes, that Kaikeyi lying down in the chamber of wrath was looking like a Kinnara woman lying down dead. King Dasaratha ordered for various arrangements to be made for Rama's coronation, took permission to leave from the elders who were present there and entered his palace. King Dasaratha, who kept all activates under his control entered into the inner chambers to tell the good news of Rama's coronation to Kaikeyi who was a worthy woman to be told the good news first (thinking that she has not yet heard the news). That Dasaratha with vast glory entered Kaikeyi's chambers as moon enters the sky with white clouds.
King Dasaratha entered his magnificent palace but could not find his beloved Kaikeyi on her best couch there. Peacocks and parrots were being reared in that palace, sounds of birds like curlews, and swans were heard around. The place was resonant with sounds of musical instruments. Short and hunch-backed maid-servants were moving here and there. There were bowers surrounded with creepers and lovely champaka and Ashoka trees. There were painted rooms. There were altars built with ivory, silver and gold. There were trees yielding flowers and fruits in all seasons and wells in the middle. There were beautiful seats constructed with ivory, silver and gold. Various types of food, drinks and snacks were made available. That palace was looking like heaven with beautifully adorned women. Being possessed of power of lust, that king who came with object of sexual pleasure, was distressed in not finding his beloved wife and enquired the people there. In former times, Kaikeyi did not keep away herself at that kind of hour, nor the king enter her chambers at any time without her presence. After entering the house, king Dasaratha enquired with the maid-servants there as before, without knowing about foolish Kaikeyi who desired to get her selfish ends. Then, a female door-keeper fearfully folding her hands in supplication, said: "Oh, king! The queen ran to her chamber of wrath with much anger". That Dasaratha having much disturbed mind already for the absence of Kaikeyi there, became more dejected after hearing the words of door-keeper.
King Dasaratha, after seeing Kaikeyi lying down on floor in the chamber of wrath, became tormented with grief. That Dasaratha,saw his wife, who was sinless, a youthful woman dearer than his life, lying down on the floor with an intent to do sin. At that time, she was looking like a completely uprooted creeper, like a fallen angel, like a thrown down Kinnara woman, like an expelled divine dancer Apsarasa, like a dropped off illusionism and like a female deer tied up in a net. That Dasaratha touched Kaikeyi affectionately, as a great elephant in a forest touches a female elephant which is wounded by poisoned arrow. That Dasaratha, possessed with infatuation and having fearful mind, touched that lotus-eyed woman with his hands and spoke the following words.
"Oh queen, of auspicious qualities! I do not know that you are angry with me. Who has cursed or disrespected you? I am pained to see you resting in this way on a dirty floor .When I am here to expend all good to you, why are you hurting my mind by lying down on the floor like the one who is possessed of a devil. There are so many royal physicians who are skilled and famous . They can make you healthy. Tell me your sickness To whom do you want a favour to be done? Who has offended you? Tell me to whom I have to extend a favour now and to whom I have to do a great offensive act .Oh, Kaikeyi! Do not weep and get your body dried up. If you tell, I shall kill a person who is exempt from death or shall release a person who is worthy to be killed. I shall make a poor man prosperous or a rich man, destitute. I and all my people are submissive to you. I do not wish to foil even a little of your intention. Tell me that which is desired by your mind to be achieved even at the cost of my life. You need not suspect me, as you very well know your authority over me. I keep my oath on my righteousness that I shall certainly do whatever is liked by you. My jurisdiction over this earth stretches out as much to the extent as to the extent a chariot-wheel revolves. Eastern countries, Sindhu, Sauviira and Saurastra countries, as well as countries in the south, Vanga, Anga, Magadha and Matsya countries, Kasi and Kausala countries are all full of riches. In those countries, gold and grain, sheep and goats and all types of goods are produced. Oh, Kaikeyi! which of the goods do you want to acquire? Oh, fearful one! why are you exerted like this? Oh, beautiful lady! Get up, get up! Oh, Kaikeyi! Tell me the source of your fear. I shall remove that source as sun sets aside the mist." Consoled by hearing the words of Dasaratha, Kaikeyi intending to put up that unkind proposal ( like Rama's exile ) was beginning to harass her husband further, by her words.
Thus completes tenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 11
In this chapter Kaikeyi asks King Dasaratha to fulfill the boons given to her in earlier times.
Kaikeyi spoke the following harsh words to that king, who was struck by cupid's arrows and yielded to hasty lust:
"Oh, King! no body has insulted me, nor despised me. But I have a certain desire that needs to be fulfilled by you. If you wish to fulfil my desire, you first promise to fulfil it. After your promise I shall inform you that which is desired by me."
The most majestic and lustful Dasaratha smiled a little and caressingly kept his hand into her hair and spoke these words to Kaikeyi who was having white smile in her face: "Oh, proud woman! Don't you know that there is nobody on this earth more dearer to me than you except Rama, the best among men. Rama cannot be defeated by enemies. He is a very important person in our family. He is the supporter of life and a high souled man. I take oath by him. Tell me what is desired by you. Oh, Kaikeyi ! I can't live even for a moment without seeing Rama. This is certain. By that Rama, I am taking my oath and promising to fulfill your word. I desire the well being of Rama, the best of men, even at the cost of my life or the lives of my other sons. I take oath by that Rama and tell you that I shall fulfil your word . Oh, auspicious lady! My heart is sinking. You raise it by your touch. Oh, Kaikeyi! you observe all this and tell me that which you think as good. You need not doubt me as you know your authority over me. I am taking oath on my auspiciousness. I shall do whatever is desired by you." That Kaikeyi, who had utmost desire for coronation of Bharata and for sending Rama to exile, revealed that wish from her mind, uttered unspeakable words with bias and delighted as she was with Dasaratha's words, conveyed to him as follows of the very horrible wish in her mind as conveying the news of a suddenly befallen death standing at his door: "Let thirty three celestials with the god of Fire in the forefront hear your words giving boons to me, preceded by series of your oaths. Let your words be heard by sun, moon, sky, planets, day, night, the four quarters, universe, earth, celestial musicians, demons, spirits wandering in nights , house-gods and other spirits. King Dasaratha, who has true promise, who has great valour, who knows righteousness and who has good equanimity of mind, is giving boon to me. Let the celestials hear it for my sake."
Kaikeyi made Dasaratha to hear these words, praised him too much and thereafter spoke these words to him who was ready to give boons as he was infatuated by lust: "Oh, King! Remember what happened in the battle between celestials and demons earlier. There the enemy destroyed almost every thing except your life. Oh, King! There, I saved you. Hence you gave boon to me who was so attentive in trying to save you. Oh, King! The protector of the Earth, the one who has true promise! I am hunting for those boons, which were given by you and kept with you for safe custody. You have to give that boon, as per right, to me as promised by you. If you despise me by not giving it, I should abandon my life now itself".
Dasaratha, after having thus yielded in full measure to kaikeyi's words, fell into her trap as a deer, for his self destruction.
There-afterwards, Kaikeyi spoke these words to Dasaratha who was ready to give boons and who was infatuated by lust: "Oh, King! the lord of Earth!Now only I am asking for those boons which were given by you then. Listen to my words".
"All arrangements have been made to undertake Rama's coronation. Let my Bharata instead be coronated on this occasion itself".
"Now, the time has arrived for the second boon given by you affectionately then in the battle between celestials and demons. Rama has to take refuge in the forest of Dandaka for fourteen years and let him become an ascetic wearing rags, deer skin and matted hair".
"Now itself, Bharata has to get rights of succession to kingdom, which is free of enemies. This is my greatest desire. Now I am asking for the boon given by you earlier. Oh King of the Kings, Dasaratha ! Be true to your promise and protect your caste, character and birth. Are not the ascetics telling that for human beings to get happiness in another world, they have to speak only the truth.?"
Thus completes eleventh chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 12
Dasaratha is shocked by the strange wishes of Kaikeyi and tries to convince Kaikeyi of her wishes as being harmful. Kaikeyi would not heed to the emperor's words.
After hearing the cruel words of Kaikeyi, King Dasaratha got disturbed and suffered great agony for a while. "Is it a day-dream or a confusion of my mind? Or could it be an eclipse of my experience or a disease of the mind? Thinking over thus, the king could not make out on the spur of the moment what it was. Then, regaining consciousness, he felt tormented by Kaikeyi's words. Distressed and dis-gusted as he was as a deer at the sight of a lioness and seated as he was on the bare floor, he gave forth a long sigh like a highly venomous serpent fixed to a charmed spot through magic spells. Uttering words "what a pity!" the angry king fell into a swoon once more, his mind infatuated with grief. Regaining consciousness after a long time and feeling much distressed and angry, the King spoke thus to Kaikeyi, as though consuming her with fire in his eyes: "Oh cruel woman of wicked conduct, inclined to exterminate this race! 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? By not knowing you as a female snake with fiery poison, you were admitted by me as princess in my house for my own self destruction. When all living beings extol the virtues of Rama, for what offence shall I forego my beloved son? Supreme delight comes to me on seeing my eldest son. My very consciousness is lost, if I fail to see Rama .The world can exist without the sun and a crop without water. But life cannot continue in my body, without Rama. Oh, sinful woman! enough of it. Let this resolution be given up. I even touch your feet with my head. Be gracious to me. Oh, sinful woman! Why this most treacherous design has been conceived by you? If you wish to ascertain my kindly or unkindly feeling towards Bharata, let it be so. But the observation made by you earlier that glorious Rama, who is senior in the practice of virtue is my eldest son as it was, must have been uttered in order to coax me or to get service from him. Afflicted with grief by hearing Rama's proposed installation, you are tormenting me too much. Possessed by an evil spirit in a lonely house, you are subject to control of another Oh, queen! In this Ikshhvaaku race, which is rich in good conduct, this very great misfortune has appeared, due to which your mind has been perverted. Oh, large eyed one! Earlier you have not done anything unreasonable or repugnant to me. That is why, I do not believe what has been done by you. Indeed, Rama is on par with the great souled Bharata to you, for many times you were telling me stories illustrating this, Oh, young lady! Oh, timid lady! How do you take delight in banishment for fourteen years of that pious- minded and illustrious Rama? How do you take delight in the sojourn, in a most dreadful forest, of Rama with very delicate body and having his self held in piety? Oh, the fair-eyed one! why do you take delight in banishment of Rama, who is so pleasing to look at and who is so obediently doing service to you ? Rama always is doing service to you more than what Bharata does. For that reason also, in your case, I do not see any speciality in Bharata. In fact, who else other than Rama the best of men could do much more service to you with respect, with correct notion and in obedience? No censure or calumny against Rama can come from the mouth of many of thousands of women or from numerous dependents maintained by me. Addressing gently all created beings with clear mind, Rama a tiger among men, captivates the people of his kingdom by his kind actions. Rama the valiant, conquers men by virtue, the poor through charity, the elders by service, the enemies in battle by his bow. Truthfulness, charity, austerity, sacrifice, purity, straightforwardness, learning, service to elders-these are firmly established in Rama. Oh, Queen! How do you wish harm to that Rama who is richly endowed with honesty, who is equal to god and who is having splendour as of a great sage? I do not remember an unkind word spoken by Rama, who always speaks kindly words to all. As such, how can I for your sake, break unpalatable news to Rama the beloved. What recourse is there for me other than Rama, in whom forgiveness, asceticism, self-denial, truthfulness, piety, gratitude and harmlessness towards living beings exist."
"Oh, Kaikeyi! You ought to bestow mercy to me, an old and miserable man who reached his end and is coaxing painfully to you. Whatever can be attained on earth, which has the sea as an end, all that I can give you. Let not anger take possession of you Oh, Kaikeyi ! I fold my hands in salutation to you. I am even touching your feet. Be a protector of Rama. Let not unrighteousness lay hold on me in this matter."
Then, that fierce Kaikeyi again spoke these fiercer words to Dasaratha, who was burning with sorrow and was wailing as aforesaid, who had fallen unconscious and was tossing about as he was filled with grief, and was praying again and again for being speedily borne across the sea of grief.: "Oh, Valiant king! Having given boons, if you repent again and again how can you proclaim piety on this earth? Oh, knower of what is right! When many royal saints assemble and converse with you , what will be your reply? Can you say a wrong was done to Kaikeyi, on whose grace I am living now and who protected me earlier? Oh, King! You having granted boons indeed today, now talk in another way, creating blemish on other kings.When there was a dispute between a hawk and a pigeon (who were no other than Indra the ruler of gods ,and the god of fire respectively), the ruler of Sibis* gave away his own flesh to the bird and king Alarka** by parting with his eyes, attained to the highest destiny.
* Ruler of Sibi: We are told in our scriptures how in order to put the large -heartedness of the king to a test, Indra(the ruler of gods)and Agni (the god of fire) once appeared in his court in the disguise of a hawk and a pigeon. Being chased by the hawk, the pigeon which sought the king’s protection, descended into his lap. The hawk which closely followed it, demanded it back from the king, contending that the bird had been allotted to it as its food by providence and the king had no right to rob it of its quarry. The king, however was not prepared to forsake the fugitive on any account and agreed to part with his own flesh in order to indemnify the hawk. The hawk however out weighed the king's flesh every time he chopped it from his body till at last he ascended the scale himself and thus offered himself in exchange for the pigeon. **Alarka=The royal sage Alarka parted with his own eyes in order to implement a boon granted by him to a blind Brahmana who asked for the king's eyes in order to have his own eyesight restored.The ocean, having given a promise, never crosses its limits. Therefore, bearing in mind the previous occurrences, do not violate the pledge given by you to me Oh, the evil-minded ! By giving up righteousness and by installing Rama in the kingdom, you want to enjoy life with Kausalya forever".
"Let it be unrighteous or righteous, real or hoax. There should be no change in whatever is promised by you for me If Rama is coronated, I shall indeed die before your eyes by drinking abundant poison now itself in front of you. If I have to see Kausalya, the mother of Rama receiving salutations even for a day, death is indeed better for me. Oh, King! I swear to you an oath by Bharata and by myself that I will not be pleased with anything else other than sending Rama to exile."
Kaikeyi spoke words of such extent and stopped. She did not further reply to the wailing Dasaratha.
Hearing Kaikeyi's boons, asking for Rama's exile and Bharata's sovereignty which are very much unwelcome, king Dasaratha nevertheless was perturbed for a while and did not move his lips towards Kaikeyi. He kept gazing with unwinking eyes towards his beloved queen Kaikeyi, who spoke such disagreeable words. The king could not become comfortable on hearing that utterance, which was unkindly to his heart filling with pain and sorrow and was as terrible as a thunderbolt.
Reflecting over Kaikeyi's resolve and her terrible swearing, Dasaratha heaved a sigh, uttered "Rama" and fell like a tree which was cut off.
Then the king became like a mad man who lost his equilibrium, like an ailing man getting upset and like a serpent losing its fiercfuleness.
Then the king spoke to Kaikeyi in a distressed tone as follows : "By whom have you been taught this worthless thing which appears to be worthwhile? Like a woman whose mind has been perverted by an evil spirit, you are not ashamed to speak to me. In the beginning, I was not knowing your wavery conduct in this way. But now, I am seeing it in you. It is perverted.From whom has such fear cropped up in you, so as to seek Bharata to be seated on the throne and Rama to stay in the forest? If you want to do favour to your husband, to the world at large and to Bharata, you give up this sinful intention of sending Rama to exile Oh, cruel petty minded woman of sinful resolve and wicked deed! Which grievance or offence are you finding in me or in Rama?With out Rama, Bharata will not in any case take possession of the kingdom of Ayodhya as I think him to be stronger in virtue than even Rama. Having uttered the words 'proceed to the forest! ', how can I behold the pale face of Rama resembling an eclipsed moon?"
"How can I see that reasonable scheme of mine, which was well made in consultation with friends and duely decided, foiled like an army destroyed by enemies? What the kings who came from many directions, will speak about me? 'Alas, this king Dasaratha, a fool was ruling this kingdom for such a long time!' When many virtuous and learned elders enquire me about Rama, what then shall I tell them? Even if I tell the truth that Rama was sent to forest by me, hard-pressed as I was by Kaikeyi, nobody will believe it and think it as untruth. What will Kausalya say to me if Rama proceeds to forest? What can I, having done an unkind act, reply to her? Oh, Kaikeyi! Whatever Kausalya, who was always desirous of showing kindness to me, who was blessed with a pet son, who speaks kind words and who deserves to be kindly treated, was waiting on me like a maid-servant, like a friend, like a wife, like a sister and like a mother. But, for your sake, she was never treated kindly by me. That which was done good by me for you, is hurting me now even as a meal taken with forbidden sauces fills an ailing person with repentance. Being apprehensive of seeing Rama being treated with contempt and sending him on exile to the forest, how will Sumitra put faith in me? Sita, alas, will hear woefully two unpleasant incidents viz.; of me having befallen to death and of Rama seeking refuge in the forest. Alas! Like a Kinnara girl bereft of her partner at the side of Himalayan hill, Sita with her grief will make me lose my life. Seeing Rama dwelling in a great forest and Sita lamenting, I cannot indeed desire to live. Oh, Kaikeyi! Deprived of your husband, you can as such rule the kingdom along with your son. It is indeed impossible for me to survive, after Rama's exile. I considered you, a good and virtuous wife as you are, proving to be perpetually bad wife as one, having drunk wine mixed with poison, though possessing an attractive appearance, concludes it to be obnoxious. You used to speak to me very consolingly with untruthful gentle words like a deer being killed by a hunter after enticing it with melodious sounds. Venerable people gathered in the streets will reproach me who has sold away my son, saying that I am as bad as a brahmana who drinks wine. It is certain. Alas! How distressing and how painful it is that I have to forbear your words! I got this type of trouble as an evil consequence earned in a previous life. Like a rope used for hanging up one's neck through ignorance, Oh sinful woman, you have been maintained by me lovingly, sinful as I am. Enjoying life with you , I could not recognise you as cause of my death. I touched you, like cobra touched with hand by a child in a deserted place. This world of living beings is certainly fit to curse me, such as I am, saying that Rama the great souled is deprived of fatherly protection by me, the evil-minded and alas! extremely foolish is king Dasaratha, whose mind is lustful for a woman and who sent his son to the forest. Emaciated by vows, by study of Vedas and by service to his preceptors, Rama will indeed (even) during his period of enjoyment, again undergo a great hardship. My son Rama is incapable of saying a second word to me to go to forest, he will say 'Be it so!' If Rama does contrary to my command to go to forest, it will be most welcome to me. But, Rama the darling would never do so. Rama, who is pure minded, cannot indeed conjecture my way of thinking. Having been told to go to the forest, he will say 'Be it so'.On Rama reaching the forest, Death will take me, who is condemned by all men and unpardonable, to the abode of Yama the god of punishment.Rama the foremost among men-having left for the forest and I having been dead, what sinful act can you think of the remaining people beloved of me. The queen Kausalya, after losing me, Rama and sons Lakshmana and Satrughna, will be unable to endure the woes and will follow me to the abode of Yama. Having thrown Kausalya, Sumitra along with three sons and myself into tortures of hell, you be happy! Being abandoned by me and Rama, the Ikshhvaaku dynasty which was eternal, which was adorned with qualities, which could not be disturbed, will now be protected by you by bringing disorder. If it becomes agreeable to Bharata to send Rama to exile, let not Bharata do funeral rite to me , when my life has departed. Alas! my adversary! Oh, vulgar lady, Kaikeyi! Become satisfied with your desires! When I am dead consequent on Rama, the foremost of men, having proceeded to forest, you a widow along with your son will then rule over the kingdom. You are residing in my house with the designation of a princess. All ill-fame, which is unequalled in this world and lasting insult as well as disrespect of men will fall to my share as to a perpetrator of sinful deeds. How can My beloved son Rama, who was hitherto travelling as a Lord time again in chariots elephants and horses, will move on foot in a great forest? How will my son, in whose dining time, cooks wearing ear-rings used to prepare excellent food and drinks, trying to finish their work before others - actually survive by eating astringent bitter and pungent wild foods?. How having worn costly robes, will Rama who is deserving of lasting comforts, be in brown-red clothing on this earth? Whose terrific and thoughtless words are these, of one demanding Rama's exile to forest and the other of Bharata's consecration as king?Women of course are deceivers and even occupied with selfishness. Let them be condemned! Here, I am not mentioning of all women but of Bharata's mother only. Oh, cruel woman of evil intent, given to pursuit of your selfish ends !You have a settled disposition to bring grief to me. What a mischief do you expect through me or through Rama, who is always doing benefit to you? On seeing Rama plunged in adversity fathers leave of their sons and wives too their husbands .Nay, even the entire world gets exasperated. I, for one, rejoice by seeing that son Rama in the form of a divine boy, adorned with ornaments coming in proximity to me. By seeing him again and again , I get rejuvenated"
"Active life may be possible even without sun or even Indra (the wielder of thunder bolt) not pouring rain. But, my opinion is that not even one will survive, by seeing Rama departing from here. I lodged in my house, as one would one's own mortal enemy, you, who seek my destruction and are unfriendly. Alas, due to ignorance, a highly venomous female serpent has been held on my lap so long and therefore I am undone . Bereft of me as also Rama and Lakshmana, let Bharata along with you, rule over the city and the state. After killing your relatives, bring delight to my enemies. Oh, cruel natured! One who has struck a blow in adversity! When you violently utter such words now, why the teeth from your mouth have not fallen down, breaking into thousands of pieces?"
"Rama does not speak a word which is even a little malevolent or unkindly. He does not know how to utter harsh words. How indeed are you recounting the faults of Rama, who talks beautifully and who is always admired for his virtues"
"Oh, Kaikeyi, the black guard of Keka dynasty! You may faint away or flare up or perish or enter the earth split up into thousands of cracks! I will not act on your word which is very cruel and inimical to me."
"I do not wish the survival of you, who are destructive like a razor, always speaking falsely pleasing words, are of evil natured, disastrous to the family, intent upon burning my heart along with vitals and repellent to my mind"
"There is no life to me without my son. How can there be happiness moreover? From whom else can there be joy , while I survive? Oh, queen! You ought not to do an unfriendly act to me. I even touch your feet. Be gracious to me."
That king, who has been gripped in the heart by his wife, who transgressed all bounds of decorum , wailing like a forlorn child and not reaching Kaikeyi's both the feet which were spread along , sank down like an ailing man.
Thus completes twelveth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 13
In this chapter, Sage Valmiki describes the bitter agony of Dasaratha on hearing the adamant Kaikeyi's words.
Dasaratha did not deserve such a behaviour (from Kaikeyi) nor was he habituated to such a situation. He was lying down on the floor, as king Yayati who fell down on earth after exhausting his merit in the region of heaven. Kaikeyi who was a manifestation of worthlessness, who accomplished her desire, who was fearlessly exhibiting her fearful form, asked for those boons again in a loud voice, to Dasaratha who was in such a bad moody situation.: "Oh, king! You always boast yourself, saying ' I speak truth. I am persistent in my promise.' Now, why are you withholding my boons standing in my credit?"
After thus spoken to by Kaikeyi, Dasaratha became angry, turned out delirious for a moment and again replied as follows:
"Oh, the vulgar one! You, my enemy! You want to be happy after your desire is fulfilled when Rama the best among men leaves for the forest and when I die thereafter. Alas! When celestials ask me about Rama's well-being after I reach heaven, how can I indeed convince them about his welfare? If I tell without obscuring the fact that I sent Rama to exile with the intention of showing kindness to Kaikeyi, nobody will believe me. With much effort I, the childless begot the great and powerful Rama as my son. How can I abandon such Rama? How can I send away Rama who is valiant and knowledgeable, who has subdued anger, who has forbearance and who has eyes like lotus-petals. How I can I send Rama, who is dark blue in colour like a blue lotus, who is long-armed , who is very strong and graceful, to Dandaka forest? Rama is accustomed to comforts. He is not accustomed to difficulties. How can I imagine such sensible Rama in a troublesome situation? I shall be happy if death occurs to me now so that Rama's life which is unworthy of suffering, is not made miserable. Oh, cruel one! One with sinful thoughts! Oh, Kaikeyi! Why are you planning to do harm to Rama who is beloved to me and who is truly heroic? I shall certainly get unparallelled ill fame and humiliation in this world".
While Dasaratha was thus lamenting with his disturbed mind, there was the approach of night with setting of the sun.To Dasaratha, who was thus lamenting painfully, the night seemed to be dark even though it was adorned with charming circular moon.The aged Dasaratha was lamenting painfully as though afflicted with a disease, with hot and hard breaths, having his eyes fixed on the sky.Oh, auspicious night, decorated with stars! Do not wish to break into a dawn. Have mercy on me. I pray with folded hands. Otherwise, Oh, Night! Leave away quickly. I do not want to see Kaikeyi, who is shameless, cruel and for whose reason this great calamity occurred"
The king spoke like this and beseeched Kaikeyi with folded hands. He again spoke this word to Kaikeyi: "Oh, auspicious queen! I am a well conducted man. I am dejected and seeking refuge in you. I am an old man and especially a king. Be kind to me. Oh, well-hipped one! I hope that whatever I told, has not merged in the sky. Oh! young woman, be kind to me . You are gentle-hearted. Oh, queen with dark outer corner of eyes ! Be kind. You yourself give my kingdom to Rama. Thus, you will obtain great fame. Oh, broad hipped, with beautiful face and eyes! Do this. It will be pleasing to me, to Rama, to the world, to the priests and to Bharata."
Hearing the king, who was her pure-hearted husband and who was pitifully lamenting strangely with red eyes filled with tears, that bad tempered cruel woman did not follow his words. Seeing his discontented wife talking unpleasantly about sending Rama to forest, the king was distressed, fainted again and fell down unconscious on the floor.
While the distressed and self-respected king was sighing terribly in this way, that night came to an end. In the dawn, bards and singers started to awaken him. But the king prevented them to do so.
Thus completes thirteenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 14
This chapter starts with Kaikeyi's entreaties to the king followed by Dasaratha disowning her as wife. The night passes and Sumantra comes to wake up the King. Ordered by Kaikeyi to bring Sri Rama to the king, he goes to Sri Rama to fetch Him.
That wicked woman spoke these words to Dasaratha, tormented as he was by the anguish for his son, was unconscious and tossing about on the floor: "What is this? After hearing the promise given to me, you are lying on the floor dejected as though you had committed a great sin. You ought to keep yourself within bounds of ethics. People who know what is right, indeed speak of truthfulness as highest virtue. I too have taken refuge in truth and made you aware of your duty. Oh, king! Having made a promise to a hawk and offering his body to the bird , king Saibya, the ruler of the world obtained the greatest destiny. In that manner, Alarka the glorious man plucking his own eyes, indeed gave remorselessly, to a brahmana skilled in the Veda, when asked for them. Following ruthfulness, ocean the lord of rivers even at the time of flow-tide, does not transgress even to a small extent its boundary because of its compliance to truth."Truth is one word and is Brahma. On truth is righteousness established. Truth indeed is the knowledge imperishable. By truth alone, the supreme being is obtained. O the best among men! Firmly adhere to truth, if your mind is fixed on piety. Since you are a bestower of boons, let my aforesaid prayer be granted. In order to attain the covetous fruit of righteousness and to concede to my request, send Rama your son to exile. I am telling it to you three times. Oh, the venerable man! If you do not implement our agreement, it means you have abandoned me. Hence I will give up my life here in front of you".
Thus compelled by Kaikeyi, who had no uneasiness in her mind, king Dasaratha could not untie the cord of plighted word that fettered him , any more than Bali could unloose the noose placed (round his body) by Indra(through his younger brother Vamana in order to deprive him of his sovereignty of the three worlds).Like a bullock throbbing between yoke and the wheel , Dasaratha got agitated in heart and became pale in his face.King Dasaratha, with bedimmed eyes, was unable, as it were, to see. But with difficulty, he controlled himself by recourse to firmness and spoke to Kaikeyi as follows: "Oh, wicked woman! I abandon your hand, which was clasped by me in presence of nuptial fire, when it was consecrated by sacred recitations as also your son begotten by me along with yourself. Oh, Queen! the night has gone by, with the return of rising sun. Elderly people will certainly quicken me for installation of Rama with the sacred materials procured for the purpose. Oh, woman of vicious conduct! If you obstruct Rama's installation, you including your son cannot offer me water(to my depated spirit). Rama will be made to do the offering of water to me, after my death. Having seen people with that joy before, I cannot see them with their happiness ended, without any merriment and having their faces turned downward in grief".
While that great souled king was speaking to her as aforesaid, the holy night endowed with moon and stars began to become clear into a dawn.
Kaikeyi of vicious conduct and of skilful talk, filled with anger, again spoke these harsh words to the king:" Oh, king ! You are uttering words, which cannot be swallowed easily like in a painful throat disease. You ought to summon your son Rama here without any delay. You will be the one who discharges duty, by installing my son to this kingdom, by making Rama to wander in the woods and rid me of enemies."
Impelled again and again by Kaikeyi, like an excellent horse being severely thrashed with a whip, that king spoke these words to Kaikeyi; "I am bound by the ties of morality. I lost my judgement. I wish to see the pious Rama, my beloved elder son.
Meanwhile, the night began to become clear, with the rising of sun. While the auspicious moment united with lunar mansion approaching, the sage Vashishta who is rich in virtues surrounded by his disciples entered the capital city of Ayodhya briskly, having procured the requisite materials for Rama's coronation.Passing through that city, whose streets were swept and watered and decorated with excellent flags, overspread with colourful flowers , made brilliant with various types of garlands, thronged with people of joy, with shops and markets in abundance, marked with lot of festivities, anxiously waiting for Rama, fumigated on all sides with perfumes of sandalwood , also resembling Amaravathi city(capital of Indra); the sage Vashishta beheld the excellent gynaecium graced with many a number of brahmanas, crowded with citizens and countrymen, and fully packed with servants carrying a staff and excellent horses richly adorned. Vashishta, being well pleased of seeing that gynaecium, got past those people there and entered it. Meanwhile, he saw Sumantra by name, who was charioteer-cum-minister of Dasaratha and who had a pleasing appearance, coming out of the royal gate. Then that great splendoured Vashishta spoke thus to the learned Sumantra, "Tell the king quickly, that I have come. Pitchers filled with holy waters of ganga , gold pitchers with sea water and an excellent seat with Udambara wood came for the purpose of Rama's installation ceremony. All types of seeds, fragrant substances and precious stones of various kinds, honey, curd, clarified butter, parched grains of paddy, blades of Darbha grass, flowers, milk, eight beautiful virgins , an elephant in rut, a glorious chariot with four horses, a special kind of sword called Nistrimsa, an excellent bow , a palanquin with bearers, an umbrella resembling the moon , a pair of white chowries, a golden jug, a white bull with large hump on its back, an excellent lion with beautiful mane with large canine teeth, a throne, a tiger skin, fire with ignition , all varieties of musical instruments,courtesans, women decked with ornaments, teachers, brahmanas, cows, animals and birds which are sacred, the best of citizens and men of country side, merchants along with their followers, all these and many other retainers speaking kind words, along with kings stand waiting for Rama's coronation. Hasten the emperor, so that Rama will get the throne when the day gets started at the auspicious moment of pushya constellation uniting with the moon"
Hearing these words of Vashishta the great souled, Sumantra entered the gynaecium along with Dasaratha, the tiger among kings.The doormen , who were wishing to do kindness to king, could not obstruct Sumantra, who came before hand who was senior and who was highly esteemed by the king.
Standing besides the king and ignorant of that situation, Sumantra started praising the king with very pleasing words. Sumantra, standing with joined palms in the gynaecium of the king, eulogised the king according to the appropriate moment as follows: "How the splendid ocean gladdens at the time of sunrise, so do you by nature filled with delight, gladden us with your delighted mind.. At the very hour of sunrise, Matali (Indra's charioteer) praised Indra and the latter conquered all the demons. In the same manner, I am awakening you. As Vedas along with the knowledge of the limbs of the body guide Lord Brahma (the creator) who is self born, so am I awakening you now. Brahma derives his knowledge of objects to be evolved at the beginning of creation from the Vedas. Even as the sun along with the moon awaken the beautiful earth which sustains the beings, so, am I awakening you. Having dressed suitably for the auspicious ceremony and shining brightly with your personality, raise up. Oh, Majesty, like the sun from mount Meru. Oh, Dasaratha born in Kakutstha dynasty! May the Gods -Sun and the Moon Shiva and Kubera, Varuna, Agni and Indra bestow you victory! Oh, the best of the kings ! The holy night has gone by. Know what has been done and do what has to be done. All the requirements for Rama's coronation is kept ready. The venerable Vashishta himself stands waiting at the gate along with brahmanas, being saluted with joined palms by citizens, village folk and merchants. Oh king! Give orders quickly for Rama's coronation ceremony. A kingdom without a king is like cattle without a herdsman, army without a commander, night without the moon and cows without a bull."
Hearing his words which were soothing and meaningful, the emperor was surrounded with grief once more. That king who was pious and glorious, having lost joy , looked up with eyes reddened through grief for his son and spoke thus to Sumantra: "You are chopping off my vitals further more, with your words!."
Sumantra, after seeing the depressed king and hearing mournful words, joined palms with salutation and slipped away to a distance from that place.
Dasaratha could not say any thing himself because of depression. Then, Kaikeyi who is experienced in fore-thoughts, spoke thus to Sumantra: "Oh Sumantra! The king, being smitten by emotional joy in relation to Rama, was tired due to uninturrupted wakefulness during whole night and got asleep. Oh, Sumantra! Hence, quickly go and bring the glorious prince Rama. Blessedness to you! Do not have any hesitation in this matter. "
He was thinking of that auspicious occasion in heart and rejoiced. With pleasure, he set out, by the orders of the king.Instigated by her, Sumantra thought that the righteous Rama would come there certainly for coronation. Sumantra thus thinking and dwelling in a great joy, set out with a desire to see the long armed Rama
Sumantra coming out of gynaceum which looked like a splendid pool in the sea, saw the gate being crowded with throngs of people. Afterwards, proceeding further on, he saw near the gate some kings stationed there and very rich citizens having arrived.
Thus completes fourteenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 15
In this chapter, Sumantra enters the royal court and observes all the arrangements made for the coronation of Sri Rama. Ordered by Dasaratha to fetch Sri Rama, he enters the mighty building of Sri Rama.
Those brahmans skilled in Vedas stayed there all the night and arrived at a nearby place along with the royal priest, Vashishta. Ministers, army chiefs, prominent leaders of the city assembled there, welcoming the cause of Rama's coronation. The best of brahmanas were prepared to do Rama's coronation in day-time after the sun rises clearly at the arrival of Pushya star and on arrival of Rama's auspicious birth time of Cancer Golden water-pots, well-decorated throne and chariot covered well by shining tiger-skin were impressive. Water was brought from auspicious conjunction of rivers ganga and Yamuna, from other rivers, lakes, wells, ponds, from streams flowing eastwards, from streams which joined together and from oceans in all sides. Gold and silver pots filled with best water together with popped grain and covered by milky sapped leaves, lotuses and water-lilies were shining there. Honey, curd, clarified butter popped grain, sacred grass, flowers and milk were kept ready. Harlots adorned with all types of ornaments were also glimmering there. An excellent fly-flopper which was like spread-out rays of moon, made of gold, adorned with diamonds was kept ready for Rama. A white umbrella like circular moon, which was kept in advance for the occasion of coronation was also kept ready. A white bull, a white horse and a mighty and beautiful elephant fit to be mounted by kings were readily waiting. Eight auspicious virgins adorned with all types of ornaments, various types of musical instruments, panegyrists and others were also waiting. The people who gathered there after getting the things required as per orders of king for coronation ceremony to be held in a kingdom of Ikshhvaaku dynasty, could not sight the king and discussed among themselves about how to inform the king regarding their arrival. " The king is not being seen. The sun has risen. Everything is ready for the coronation of Rama, the wise ." Sumantra, who received good respect from Dasaratha, heard them thus speaking and addressed those kings, who came from different countries : ".I am going to Rama now quickly as per king's directions. But, you are all worthy of worship by Dasaratha and by Rama in particular. I shall ask as your word about the well-being of king who is now awake and also about the reason of his not coming here."
That Sumantra, knower of many ancient anecdotes , spoke thus, approached entrance of royal palace and entered the inner quarters which is always kept closed. He entered the inner quarters and praised the king's dynasty. He approached the royal bedroom and stood there at a distance.
He entered the bedroom, approached nearer to the curtain there and praised Dasaratha's qualities with blessings.: "Oh, king Dasaratha! Let sun and the moon, guardians of the world like Shiva and Kubera, Varuna, Agni and Indra grant victory to you! Oh, the best of kings! The venerable night has gone. The auspicious day has come. Wake up and do whatever needs to be done thereafter. Oh, king Dasaratha ! Brahmanas, chiefs of armed forces and traders are waiting to see you. Please wake up."
Then, Dasaratha woke up and spoke these words to Sumantra, who was eulogising him, who was skilled in giving advice and who was his charioteer. "Why have you not followed my orders even though you were asked by her to bring Rama." King Dasaratha ordered that charioteer there again thus - " I am not sleeping. Bring Rama here soon".
He listened to king's words, bowed his head in salutation to him, thought for goodness of king, and came out of the king's palace.
That Sumantra with placid mind, went happily seeing the royal roads adorned with flags and banners. Sumantra heard the words pertaining to Rama and Rama's coronation spoken together by joyful people there. Then, Sumantra saw Rama's palace which was lovely, shining like top of a mountain and radiant like Indra's palace.
Rama's palace was beautiful with large doors and adorned with hundreds of raised quadrangular seats. There were festooned decorations over doorways with gems and corals. It was adorned with various precious stones and the best of garlands. Pearls were scattered all over abundantly. It was decorated with sandal and aloe woods, spreading out beautiful smells like the peak of a Darddura Mountain. Cranes and peacocks were singing sweetly. Figures of wolves and other art forms were sculptured here and there. It was attracting the eyes and minds of creatures by its brilliance. It was shining like a constellation of moon and the sun. It was full of various kinds of birds. It was as high as Meru mountain. Sumantra saw such a palace of Rama. People who came from different rural parts to see Rama's coronation were waiting with different gifts in their hands. That house decorated with various diamonds, was looking high like a great cloud. Hunch backed servants and servants of kirata tribe were moving all over the house.
That Sumantra with chariot fastened with horses and having a top, approached towards Rama's palace, irradiating the overcrowded main road and gladdening the hearts of all citizens. That palace of the great souled Rama was like Indra's palace with great wealth. It was filled with various deers and peacocks. After approaching that palace, he became quite thrilled. The inner apartments of Rama's palace were well decorated, high as Kailasa mountain and like abodes of deities. Sumantra entered there, passed over many of Rama's friends who were well wishers and approached Rama's inner apartment.
There, Sumantra heard delightful people talking about Rama's coronation and the rites to be performed for the sake of Rama's prosperity.
Sumantra saw the beautiful palace of Rama which was as high as top of the Meru mountain, shining with radiance. The mansion was filled with birds and antelopes. It was like Indra’s mansion. He saw crores and millions of rural folk and other people with folded hands approaching the area leaving their respective vehicles. There he saw a beautiful elephant called Satrunjaya with highly elevated body and as Rama's royal conveyance. It was like a great cloud and a mountain. It was in a rut, uncontrollable by goad and capable of conquering the enemy.
The ministers in chief who were beloved to the king, were well-adorned and came there on horse-carriages and elephants. Sumantra passed over the people gathered there on all sides and entered the rich inner apartment.
Then, that Sumantra entered Rama's palace, which was like top of a mountain, like an unmoving cloud, which contained mansions resembling excellent aerial cars--even as a crocodile entering the ocean containing a number of precious stones. Nobody obstructed him.
Thus completes fifteenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 16
In this chapter, Sumantra arrives at Rama's palace to fetch him to royal court. Rama starts to the royal court to meet his father. On the way Rama observes the jubiliant city.
That Sumantra,( who knew many ancient sacred legends), passed over the crowded entrance of the palace and reached the secluded inner apartment. In that area of the inner apartment, some youths , wearing darts and bows, were on security-duty with due vigilance and attention. They were all greatly devoted to the king and were wearing polished ear-rings. There he saw aged palace-supervisors wearing orange coloured clothes, adorning themselves well, having canes in their hands, well composed and being posted at door-ways. All of them, the well-wishers of Rama, saw that Sumantra arriving and raised from their seats hurriedly at once. That humble-minded Sumantra spoke to them thus, "Tell Rama immediately that Sumantra is waiting with reverence at the entrance" They, the well-wishers of their master, approached Rama who was closeted with his wife and immediately informed him.
Knowing that Sumantra, who was intimate to his father, came, Rama prompted as he was with a desire to show kindness, called him in there.
That Sumantra saw Rama sitting like Kubera on a golden couch with the best cloth-covering. He adorned himself well and had the body anointed with sandal perfume, purely smelling like blood of a boar. With Sita, standing on his side with chowrie in her hand, Rama was shining like moon with chitra star. Sumantra, who knew polite conduct, offered salutation to Rama, who was refined with his own brilliance, shining like the sun and the fulfiller of desires. Sumantra, who was treated with respect by Rama spoke thus with folded hands to that prince with beautiful face and who was seated on a swinging sofa: "Oh Rama, the good offspring of Kausalya! Your father and the Queen Kaikeyi want to see you. Go there soon." That best of men with great brilliance was pleased to hear those words, then honoured him and spoke thus to Sita: "Oh Sita! The king and the queen together are thinking of something about me, relating to coronation. It is certain. That black-eyed mother of mine, Kaikeyi who is dexterous and friendly disposed, has perceived the king's opinion and is pressing him on my behalf. Kaikeyi, my mother is following up the king's intentions with great pleasure, desirous of my benefit and prosperity It is certainly our luck that king and queen have sent Sumantra, who fulfils my desires and wishes, as a messenger A worthy messenger has come who is truly representing the assembly there. It is certain that today itself the king will anoint me for the right of succession to kingdom. I shall go immediately and see the king. You stay happily with the circle of friends and enjoy yourself."
The dark-eyed Sita, treated with respect by her husband , followed Rama up to the door, thinking of auspicious things in her mind. "King Dasaratha will give you kingdom, being served by brahmanas, which will invest you with eligibility to perform the great sacrifice at the coronation ceremony like Brahma to Devendra. I shall be delighted to see you, initiated for the perfect religious act of austerity, wearing excellent antelope-hide, being pure and bearing a deer-horn in hand May Indra the god of rain in the east, Yama the god of death in the south, Varuna the regent of the ocean in the west and Kubera the god of riches and treasure in the north, protect you". Rama, adorned as in an auspicious festivity, took permission from Sita and started from house along with Sumantra.
That Rama who came out, like a lion residing in a mountain cave from out of the mountain, saw Lakshmana standing at the door, bowing down with palms of his hands joined .Then, that prince the best of men, met his friends in the middle chamber. Having seen all the people who came there to behold him, he approached nearer to them, greeted them and mounted next his excellent chariot, which was resplendent like fire and upholstered with tiger's skin. That chariot was sounding like thunder. It was not congested. It was decorated with gold and jewels. Its splendour was like that of Meru mountain, stealing the eyes. Excellent horses looking like infantine elephants were tied to the chariot, which was moving quickly. That Rama shining with splendour like Indra, the lord of sky, mounted such a chariot and went forth quickly. That splendid chariot, sounding like rain-cloud in the sky, came out of the house like moon coming out of a mighty cloud. Lakshmana, Rama's younger brother mounted the chariot in the back-side and protected Rama with umbrella and chamara fan. Then, the crowds started dispersing from all sides generating tumultuous hallowing sound. Thereupon, hundreds and thousands of important people mounted on excellent horses and soldiers mounted on elephants, followed Rama. Valiant persons, dressed in armour adorned with sandal and aloe perfumes, wearing swords and bows, declaring the arrival of Rama, went in front of Rama to receive him. At that time, sounds of musical instruments, sounds of praising hymns of panagyrists and lion-like roars of valiant persons were heard on the way. While Rama, the annihilator of enemies, was going, well-adorned women standing in porticoes of palaces, sprinkled flowers on him from all sides. Women of exquisitely beautiful form standing in palaces and on ground were offering salutations to Rama with the best words with a desire to please Rama. "Oh, Rama, who creates happiness to mother! Have successful journey! Your mother Kausalya will be certainly delighted to see you obtaining the paternal kingdom." Those women thought that Sita, who is dear to Rama's heart, is better woman than all women. "As Rohini star stays together with the moon, Sita having obtained Rama as husband must have certainly performed a great penance in former times." While going through the royal road, Rama heard those pleasant words spoken thus by women standing in turrets.
Then, Rama heard the words of people gathered there and also the words variously pertaining to himself, by citizens. "By the king's propitiousness, this Rama today is going to obtain this earth and the wealthy kingdom. All our desires are going to be fulfilled because Rama will become the ruler. If Rama rules this state for a long time, it will be a great benefit to the people. If he becomes a king none can see dislike and sorrow at any time."
While bards and panegyrists were moving in front praising with great respect, invoking blessings and eulogised by the most excellent instrumentalists, Rama, like Kubera the god of wealth, went with resounding horses and elephants.
Rama saw the great royal road which was spotlessly clean, having diamonds and various vendible commodities. It was full of male and female elephants, horses and chariots. There was abundance of people gathered at road junctions.
Thus completes sixteenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 17
This chapter further describes journey towards the royal palace. On the way Rama hears blessings and well meaning words of his friends and various people gathered there.
Rama the glorious man, who was with his joyful friends, ascended the chariot and saw the city which was decorated with flags and banners, which was perfumed all around by burning excellent aloe wood and which was endowed with varied types of people.He went through the royal passage which was incensed with aloe wood. That royal street was splendid with white houses resembling clouds.
Rama entered that excellent royal route, which was filled with heaps of sandal-wood, superior aloe-wood, excellent perfumes, silk and linen cloth, unpierced pearls, excellent things made of crystal, splendid with various kinds of flowers and eatables and which road was not congested. Rama saw that royal route like divine passage in heaven. All the road junctions there were regularly worshipped with yoghurt, unbroken rice, clarified butter, fried grain, incense, aloe and sandal and all types of garlands and perfumes. Hearing the various blessing words spoken by his friends, he went acknowledging all those people suitably. "Get coronated today, take the path followed by your grandfathers and great grandfathers and rule the kingdom. If Rama becomes king, we shall be more happy than when his father ruled and also when his grandfathers ruled. If we can see Rama going forth in the city after getting coronated today, it is of no use of eating or other activities. There is no other dearer thing to us than coronation of Rama of unbounded splendour".
Rama, though hearing these good words spoken by his friends about himself , was passive and drove along the royal route.
Though Rama became distant, no one could turn back one's eyes and mind from him, the best of men. All the people despised the one who did not see Rama and the one who was not seen by Rama. Even his own self would reproach himself of it.
Rama, the virtuous, had compassion towards all the four classes of men and towards the aged people. Hence, they were all devoted to him. Rama drove along by crossing road junctions, god's paths, sacred trees and temples keeping his right side towards them. Rama approached the royal abode and entered his father's palace which was the best palace with blazing radiance like the palace of king of celestials on earth. All around the house, there were various types turrets looking like Mount Kailasa, as group of clouds, as white heavenly cars touching the sky. There were royal houses named vardhamana which were adorned with a net of precious stones. Rama the best of men crossed with chariot three enclosures protected by men armed with bows and moved over the other two enclosures by foot.
Passing over all the gates, Rama politely sent all the people back and entered the palace.
When Rama went nearer to his father, all the people there were delighted waiting for his return as the ocean waits for rising of the moon.
Thus completes seventeenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 18
In this chapter Rama arrives at the king's presence. Seeing King disturbed, Rama becomes grieved and wants to know the cause of king's perturbance. Queen Kaikeyi describes to Rama about the boons that Dasaratha had given earlier and also her wishes of coronating Bharatha instead of Rama and sending Rama to Dandaka forest. On listening to these harsh words of Kaikeyi, Rama did not become sorrowful, but Dasaratha was very much disturbed.
Rama saw his father sitting on a beautiful seat, but with his face looking completely parched up and miserable. Kaikeyi was at his side. Rama being humble and well composed, first reverentially saluted his father's feet and then saluted Kaikeyi's feet. Dasaratha spoke only one word "Rama!" with his eyes filled with tears and dejected, being not able to see or to talk any further words. Having not seen earlier such a fearful form of his father, even Rama was frightened as though he seized a snake by his foot. That king Dasaratha was sighing heavily with senses sans pleasure, emaciated with grief and anguish, with distressed and agitated mind, like the ocean which cannot be perturbed, becoming perturbed with a row of waves, like the sun which is eclipsed and lost its lustre and like a sage who spoke untruth.
Contemplating over the unimaginable sorrow of the king, Rama was very much perturbed as an ocean does on a full moon day. That ingenious Rama, who is fond of his father's welfare, anxiously thought : " Why indeed the king is not greeting me in return just today? At other times, the father, even though angry used to be gracious after seeing me. Why today such a father has become weary after seeing me?"
Rama indeed was distressed and afflicted with grief, with lustre faded from his face, offered his salutation to Kaikeyi and spoke these words: "I hope that I have not done anything wrong through ignorance. Tell me why father is angry with me. You alone propitiate him in my favour."Why my father, who was always affectionate to me, has become displeased? With his face becoming pale and dejected, he is not talking to me. I hope that either bodily affliction or mental distress is not troubling him. The object of happiness is indeed difficult to be attained always! I hope that no bad thing occurred to Bharata, the delightful man to look at or to Shatrughna, the man of great strength or to my mother. If our father becomes angry, I do not desire to live even for a moment without satisfying him or without fulfilling his command. Man sees father as the visible god who is the root cause of one's own coming into existence and how else can he behave towards him other than like that? I hope you have not spoken anything which hurt my father's conscience with your pride and anger. I am asking you why my father got this perturbation, which was not there earlier. Tell me the true position."
Thus questioned by the great souled Rama, Kaikeyi fearlessly spoke these words which were calculated to advance her own benefit, without any shame on her part: "Oh, Rama! The king is not angry. There is nothing of distress for him. But he has something in mind which he is not telling from fear. To him, words are not coming off to tell disagreeable utterance to you, the dear one. He promised me a word. It is to be certainly done by you."
"Long ago, the king honoured me and gave me a boon. Like a common man, he is repenting now for having given the boon. This king promised me to give the boon and now he desires to build a dam wastefully on a place where water has gone away. Oh, Rama! It is known by even wise men, that truth is the root of righteousness. See that the offended king does not abandon such a truth for your sake. The king is about to mention that truth which may look auspicious or inauspicious to you. Still, I shall tell you all that, if you shall implement it. If what is spoken by the king does not create unfavourableness in you, I shall then tell you.In no case this king will not indeed tell you."
After hearing the words of Kaikeyi, Rama felt painful and spoke thus to her in the presence of the king.: "Oh, queen! what a pity! Do not talk like that to me. If father tells me, I shall jump even in fire. If father, who is a king, who wishes my welfare and who is venerable, commands me, I shall eat fiery poison and shall sink into an ocean. Oh queen! Tell me the words of the king as desired by him. I even promise to do it. Rama does not speak two things."
That vulgar Kaikeyi uttered very cruel words to that Rama, who was committed to sincerity and the speaking of truth.: "Oh, Rama! During a battle and a great war between celestials and demons long ago, I protected your father who was pierced by darts. Then, he gave me two boons. Oh, Rama! According to those boons, I asked the king for coronation of Bharata and for your going to Dandaka forest today itself. Oh, Rama! If you want to make yourself and your father faithful to a promise, listen to these words of mine. Abide by your father's command. As per his assurance, you have to stay in the forest for fourteen years. Bharata is to be enthroned with the use of the same complete collection of materials already arranged by the king for your sake. You have to leave this coronation function and dwell in the forest of Dandaka for fourteen years, wearing braided hair and covered with a hide. Let Bharata rule this earth, by residing in Ayodhya endowed with various types of precious things together with horses, chariots and elephants. For this reason, king Dasaratha who is overwhelmed with sympathy towards you is not able to see you , with his face afflicted with grief. Oh, Rama! Do as per the words of the king and liberate him by giving your father an opportunity to vindicate the truth."
Though she was speaking such harsh words, Rama was not affected with sorrow. But the mighty Dasaratha became highly disturbed, having been afflicted by the calamity occurred to his son.
Thus completes eighteenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 19
Rama on hearing the harsh and cruel words of Kaikeyi remains unruffled. He asks Kaikeyi sorrowfuly about the reason the king did not speak to him directly about the matter. He then immediately decides to leave for forest after duly saluting the king and Kaikeyi. On the way to forest he desires to visit his mother and Sita and inform them of his decision.
Rama the annihilator of enemies heard those harsh and deadly words but was unruffled. He spoke these words to Kaikeyi: "Let it be, as you said it. I shall fulfil the king's promise, go to the forest from here to reside there, wearing braided hair and covered with a hide. But I want to know why the king, the inviolable and the subduer of enemies, is not greeting me today as before. Oh, queen! you need not be indignant. I am telling before you that I shall go to the forest, wearing rags and braided hair. Become delighted as well. How can I not do faithfully an action dear to my father, as commanded by him as well-wisher, venerable man, as person with right conduct and as king. My heart is burning indeed with one sorrowful feeling that king himself has not directly informed me about Bharata's coronation. Without being asked, I myself would have gladly offered even Sita with kingdom, even my life, loved ones and wealth. Being directed by king, who is my father himself, how much more should I tell that I can give everything to Bharata, duly obeying father's promise to fulfil your beloved desire. That is why, you console him. Why indeed the king is thus slowly shedding tears, with eyes gazed upon the floor? Let messengers go now itself on fleet horses to bring Bharata from maternal uncle's house as per orders of the king. Immedi glad that he would certainly go and urged him to make haste at once.ately, I shall go to live in forest of Dandaka for fourteen years, without reflecting on whether my father's words are right or wrong."
Hearing Rama's words, Kaikeyi felt happy the reply received from Rama. Confident of Rama's departure to the forest, he urged him as follows: "Let it be so. Messengers can go on horses having rapid speed, to bring back Bharata from his maternal uncle's house. But I think it is not quite appropriate for you who are enthusiastic to go to forest, to delay further. It is nothing but shyness that the king is not able to speak to you. Oh Rama, the best of men! Do not worry about it. Oh, Rama! Your father will neither take his bath nor eat a meal until you leave the city for the forest immediately.
Hearing these words, the king saying "what a pity! How much misery!" was overwhelmed with sorrow, fainted and fell in that couch adorned with gold. Rama lifted up the king and soon got hurried up to leave for the forest that which he was again instigated by Kaikeyi as a horse was hit by a whip.
Rama after hearing that vulgar woman's words, which were harsh and poignant, was unruffled and spoke these words to Kaikeyi: "Oh queen! I am not concerned with wealth. However, I am eager to receive the world hospitably. Know me as equal to a sage, abiding in righteousness alone. If I have to do whatever action is dearer to my revered father, that action is just done in all respects even by renouncing life. There is not indeed anything of greater performance of duty than doing service to father or than doing what he commands. Even if our reverent father does not tell me, I shall reside in the forest, devoid of people, now for fourteen years as per your word. In the matter of coronation of Bharata, you told Dasaratha and not to me, even though you had every authority to tell me directly. By this, it is known that you have not seen any merit in me. It is certain! Today itself, I shall go to the forest of Dandaka after bidding farewell to my mother and also after consoling Sita. While ruling the kingdom, see that Bharata serves our father well. It is indeed an age-old practice."
Dasaratha after hearing Rama's words was hurt very much with grief, was unable to talk and wept loudly.
That Rama, with great brilliance, came out, after duly offering obeisance to the feet of his father who was fainted and also to the feet of that vulgar Kaikeyi. Rama made circumambulatory salutation to his father as well as Kaikeyiand coming out of that palace, saw his friends(standing at the gate).
Lakshmana, the son of Sumitra, felt very angry with his eyes filled with tears and accompanied behind Rama. Rama moved clockwise around the auspicious materials collected for the propound coronation and having fixed his attention respectfully on them, moved away slowly.
As Rama was a pleasing personality, he was loved by all the people. The loss of kingdom could not diminish such a great splendour of Rama as a night cannot diminish the splendour of the moon. In that Rama, who was leaving the kingdom after having decided to go to the forest, there was no perturbation of mind in him like in an ascetic who is beyond worldly pain and pleasure. Rama, the man of great courage, refused fans and umbrella, sent away his friends, chariot and citizens, kept back sorrow in his mind, subdued his senses and entered his mother's house to inform the unpleasant news.
The people adjacent to Rama could not visualise any change in the face of Rama who was dignified and truthful in his words. Rama did not lose his natural joy, as an autumnal moon with lofty rays does not lose its natural splendour. Rama with his courageous spirit and of great fame, paying his respects to the people with his sweet words, went nearer to his mother.Lakshmana, who got virtues equal to Rama, who was having great heroic valour and who was the brother, kept the grief within himself and went along with Rama.
When Rama entered, Kausalya's palace was filled with great joy. At that time, Rama did not show any displeasure for the mishap occurred in reality. He behaved like that because he had doubted about the possible shock to his friends and even of fear to their life, if he showed any perturabation.
Thus completes nineteenth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Valmiki Ramayana - Ayodhya Kanda in Prose
Sarga 20
Rama approaches his mother Kausalya to inform her of the calamity. Kausalya on hearing the news, faints. On recovering, she laments in the most grievous tones to Rama.
While Rama, the best of men, was leaving, after offering salutation to his father, women in the palace were weaping loudly. " Which Rama, without being told by his father, used to do necessary activities and protect the entire palace, is about to go to exile now Rama, since he was born, was showing the same attention to us, as he was showing to his mother Kausalya. He used to avoid actions which created anger and soothed all those who were angry. Rama was not furious with those who abused him. Such Rama is going today to exile. Our stupid king by abandoning Rama who was helpful to all beings , is offending all the beings.Thus, all the king's consorts while weaping loudly, as cows which lost their calves, abused their husband . After hearing the terrific distressful crying sounds in the palace, Dasaratha clung to the seat, with extreme anguish for his son.
Rama, who was greatly hurt, sighed like an elephant, subdued his senses and went to his mother’s palace along with Lakshmana Rama saw a much worshipped old man sitting at the gateway of the house and many others standing there. After seeing Rama, all of them rose quickly and greeted Rama the most triumphant man, by uttering the words “May you have increased success! Rama crossed the first gate and saw old Brahmanas who were perfect in Vedas and duly honoured by the king.Rama offered salutation to those brahmanas and saw old women and girls, guarding the gate in the third enclosure. Then those women, having delighted, greeted Rama with good word of success, quickly entered the house and informed Kausalya about the lovely arrival of Rama .
At that time, Kausalya having spent the whole night with steadfastness, was performing worship to Vishnu at dawn, for the welfare of her son. Kausalya, who was interested in practising religious vows regularly, was appearing auspiciously in a white silk sari and was gladly performing sacrificial ceremony in a sacred fire, by reciting vedic hymns. Then Rama entered his auspicious mother’s apartment and saw his mother performing sacrificial ceremony in a sacred fire there.
There, Rama saw the articles of worship kept ready for the purpose of the sacred ceremony like curd, unbroken rice, clarified butter, sweet meats, things fit for oblation, fried grain, garlands made of white flowers, rice boiled in milk, mixture of rice and peas with a few spices, sacrificial sticks, vessels full of water etc.
Kausalya, who became lean because of observance of vows, was shining like an angel with her white silk sari and was satiating gods by presenting to them libations by water. By seeing her son who came after a long time and who gave delight to mother, Kausalya was pleased and went forward to meet him, like a female horse would run to meet her young colt. Rama offered salutation to the approaching mother by touching her feet. Then, she took him into her arms and smelt his head. Kausalya spoke these pleasing words affectionately to her son Rama, who was unassailable to enemies: “Obtain long life and glory, as obtained by the aged , the virtuous, the great souled and the royal sages .Protect the righteousness engrained in your race . Oh,Rama ! King Dasaratha ,your father is a man of true promise. Today itself, you will be installed as successor to the kingdom by your virtuous father.”
Kausalya asked Rama to take food , but Rama just touched the seat offered by her and after performing salutation to her, spoke thus to his mother. That Rama , being humble in nature , became still modest due to respect for his mother and was set about to ask her permission before setting forth his journey to Dandaka forest: “Oh,mother! You do not know that a great dismay is approaching now. It brings grief to you, to Sita and to Lakshmana. I am going to Dandaka forest. Why is this seat for me? Time has come for me to sit on a seat made of Kusha grass. I shall live in a solitary forest like a sage for fourteen years, leaving off meat and living with roots, fruits and honey The great king is giving to Bharata the succession to kingdom and to me, however, he is making me a sage to stay in the forest of Dandaka. I have to satisfy with the things existing in the forest and subsist with roots and fruits in a solitary forest for fourteen years.”
The queen Kausalya fell on the floor all at once like the branch of a tree, cut down by an axe and as an angel dropping down from heaven.
Seeing Kausalya, who deserved to be free from sorrow, Rama lifted up her, who had fallen unconsciously on the floor like a plantain tree. Rama touched with his hand that miserable Kausalya,whose limbs were covered with fragrant powder and who rose like a loaded horse from the floor on which it rolled from side to side.
Kausalya, who was fit for happiness but was afflicted with grief, spoke thus to Rama the best of men who was sitting nearby, while Lakshmana was hearing.: “Oh, Rama! I would not have felt this much grief if I were childless .You are born only to produce sorrow to me. Oh, son! There is no other grief to a barren woman except the only worry that 'I have no sons' Oh, Rama! I have not seen any happiness or prosperity earlier, while my husband is in power. I believed that I could see them at last when my son comes to power. I have to hear so many disagreeable words from my fellow-wives who are inferior to me and who pierce my heart with their words though I am a better and virtuous wife among them. Which one will be more sorrowful to women than this unending and consuming grief that occurred to me now?“Even when you are near by, I am being rejected. What to tell when you leave for exile? Death indeed is certain to me. My husband always held me down, without giving me any independence and treated me equal to or even lower than the servants of Kaikeyi. Those who serve me now and those who follow me, will not speak to me, after seeing Bharata Oh, son! How can I, the miserable one, see the face of Kaikeyi who talks hurtingly because of her continuous anger. Oh,Rama! I have been waiting for seventeen years after your second birth of thread ceremony, with the hope that my troubles will disappear at one time or the other. Oh, Rama! In this old age, I cannot bear insult from co-wives and this unending sorrow for a long time. How can I the pitiable one, spend this miserable life without seeing your face radiating like full moon. You were nourished in vain by me , by fasts, by meditations, by various difficult and painful vows .My heart is not breached, as bank of a great river, struck by new water in monsoon, by hearing this news. That is why, I feel it is so strong. There is no death to me, indeed . I have no place in the abode of god Yama who presides over the spirits of the dead. Hence, Yama is not forcingly carrying me off like a lion carrying off a wailing antelope. This grief is inserted into my body. Even then, my heart is stable. It has not broken into pieces and fallen on the floor. It is indeed made of iron. There is no untimely death, it is certain. I feel bad since all my religious vows, charities, restraints have all gone waste. The austerity I performed for the sake of of f–spring has gone in vain, as a seed sown in a saline soil. If a man in great distress can get premature death out of his own will, I being separated from you ,would have to attain the glory of the dead now itself like cow without the calf. Moreover, what is the use of life? Oh, Rama! With your brilliant face shining like moon! My life is useless without you. I shall accompany you to the forest like a weak cow going behind its calf”
Then, that Kausalya looked at Rama to whom a great calamity has occurred, saw her son bound by grief and lamented very much in various ways like a Kinnara woman.
Thus completes twentieth chapter of Ayodhya Kanda in glorious Ramayana, the work of a sage and the oldest epic.
Sree Valmiki Ramayana
courtesy from
Sree Brahmasri Desiraju Hanumanta Rao ji
and Sreeman Brahmasri K M K Murthy ji
I Humbly bow to the lotus feet of both of them
for the collection
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