Ayodhya Kandam

Ramayanam - Ayodhya Kandam
By Sage Valmiki
Translated by P. R. Ramachander

Section: II
Ayodhya Kandam [Ayodhya Section]
[This book starts with proposal for coronation of Rama as Yuvaraja by Dasaratha. On the advice of Mandhara, Kaikeyi asks Dasaratha two boons - one to crown Bharatha and the other to banish Rama to the forest. Rama accordingly goes to forest and settles down in Chithrakuta Mountain. Dasaratha dies due to sorrow of parting with his son. Bharatha who is summoned refuses to become the king. He goes to Chithrakuta to bring Rama back. Rama refuses. Bharatha returns with Sandal of Rama and makes it a king and rules as its representative from a place called Nandigrama. Rama leaves Chithrakuta due to impending trouble from Rakshasas.]

Index
1. Dasaratha's Yuvaraja Proposal
2. Dasaratha's Proposal of Rama
3. Rama's Coronation Arrangements
4. Rama's Coronation Preparation
5. Rama's Coronation Further Preparation
6. Rama's Observation of Rituals
7. Mandhara's Advice to Kaikeyi
8. Mandhara's Further Advice to Kaikeyi
9. Kaikeyi is Influenced by Mandhara
10. Dasaratha Consoles Kaikeyi
11. Kaikeyi Asks for Boons
12. Dasaratha Requests Kaikeyi
13. Dasaratha's Diplomacy Fails
14. Coronation Day
15. Sumanthra's Visit to Rama's Palace
16. Rama Goes to Meet Dasaratha
17. Scenes on Rama's Way
18. Kaikeyi's Demands
19. Rama's Preparations for Forest Travel
20. Kausalya Laments
21. Rama Consoles
22. Rama Consoles Lakshmana
23. Lakshmana Frets and Fumes
24. Kausalya's Permission to Rama
25. Kausalya Bids Farewell to Rama
26. Rama Tries to Bid Farewell to Sita
27. Sita Requests Rama
28. Rama's Advice to Sita
29. Sita Pleads with Rama
30. Rama's Permission to Sita
31. Rama's Permission to Lakshmana
32. Rama Distributes Wealth
33. Rama Goes to Dasaratha's Palace
34. Rama Seeks Dasaratha's Permission
35. Sumanthra Chastises Kaikeyi
36. Dasaratha's Proposal
37. Rama Wears Bark Cloth
38. Dasaratha Forbids Sita Wearing
39. Rama Takes Leave of his Mothers
40. Rama Starts Journey
41. Ayodhya and its People Mourn
42. Dasaratha Wails Further
43. Kausalya Laments
44. Sumithra Consoles Kausalya
45. Citizens Follow Rama
46. Rama Proceeds
47. Citizens Return to Ayodhya
48. Citizens Lament
49. Rama Travels Further
50. Rama Meets Guha
51. Lakshmana Shares Sorrow with Guha
52. Rama Takes Leave of Sumanthra
53. Rama Laments about Kaikeyi
54. Rama at Bharadwaja's Hermitage
55. Rama Crosses Kalindhi River
56. Rama at Chithrakuta
57. Sumanthra Reaches Back Ayodhya
58. Sumanthra Delivers Rama's Message
59. Sumanthra Reports
60. Sumanthra Consoles Kausalya
61. Kausalya Accuses Dasaratha
62. Kausalya Seeks Dasaratha's Pardon
63. Sabdha Bhedhi Story
64. Curse of Saint Couple
65. King Dasaratha's End
66. Funeral Postponed
67. Brahmins Suggestion
68. Messangers to Bharatha
69. Bharatha's Dream
70. Bharatha's Journey
71. Bharatha at Ayodhya
72. Kaikeyi Informs Bharatha
73. Bharatha's Anger
74. Bharatha Further Berates Kaikeyi
75. Bharatha Meets Kausalya
76. Bharatha Performs Funeral Rites
77. Bharatha Performs Death Rituals
78. Shatrugna Tortures Mandhara
79. Bharatha Refuses to be Crowned
80. Bharatha's Men Construct Road
81. Vasishta Arranges Meeting
82. Bharatha Refuses Kingdom Offer
83. Bharatha's Forest Journey
84. Guha Meets Bharatha
85. Guha's Doubts Cleared
86. Guha Talks of Lakshmana
87. Guha Tells about Rama
88. Bharatha is Upset
89. Bharatha at Bharadwaja's Hermitage
90. Bhardwaja Talks with Bharatha
91. Bharadwaja's Hospitality to Bharatha
92. Bharatha's Chithrakuta Journey
93. Bharatha at Chithrakuta
94. Rama Shows Scenes of Chithrakuta
95. Mandakini River
96. Lakshmana sees Bharatha's Army
97. Bharatha's Intention
98. Bharatha Identifies Rama's Hut
99. Bharatha Meets Rama
100. Rama Enquires about Ayodhya
101. Bharatha tells about Dasaratha
102. Rama offers Oblation
103. Kausalya and others Meet Rama
104. Rama Advises Bharatha
105. Bharatha Argues
106. Bharatha's Request
107. Rama Tries to Convince Bharatha
108. Jabali Reasons with Rama
109. Rama Differs with Jabali
110. Rama's Clan Genealogy
111. Rama Agrees to Become King
112. Bharatha Requests for Sandals
113. Bharatha's Return Journey
114. Bharatha Returns to Ayodhya
115. Rama's Sandals as King
116. Sages Leave Chithrakuta
117. Rama Visits Sage Athri
118. Sita Talks to Anasuya
119. Rama Takes Leave of Sage Athri

1. Dasaratha's Yuvaraja Proposal

[Bharatha leaves to his uncle's place. Due to many good qualities, Rama becomes the darling of his people. Dasaratha wants to crown him as Yuvaraja and he calls a meeting of the people.]

When Bharatha set out to his uncle's house, he took with him the sinless Shatrugna, the killer of foes. 1.1

Bharatha was honoured and fondled by his uncle who was the lord of the horses and stayed with his brother for a long time. 1.2

While those heroic brothers, though were living life of satisfaction were worried about their old valorous father. 1.3

That great lustrous king also was thinking about his sons Bharatha and Shatrugna, who were far away and who were like Indra and Varuna. 1.4

Dasaratha loved equally all his four sons, who originated from his own body. 1.5

Even among them, the lustrous Rama was liked by his father most and possessing many virtues like The Lord Brahma, who was created by himself. 1.6

Requested by devas, that God desirous of slaying the haughty Ravana, was born indeed in this world of humans. 1.7

Kausalya looked great with her son who had exceedingly great luster, similar to Adithi along with her son Indra having the Vajrayudha. 1.8

Rama was endowed with beauty and valour and was free from envy. In virtues he was equal to Dasaratha and was indeed an incomparable son. 1.9

He was daily endowed with peace and spoke in a sweet voice, and though addressed by using harsh words, he would never reply using harsh words. 1.10

Rama with great self-restraint always remembered the one act of kindness done to him some time or other and forgot even hundred offences done to him. 1.11

Even during intervals when he is not practicing the use of weapons, he always used to talk with Old people who are experts in knowledge and saintly persons. 1.12

Rama was wise, one who talks sweetly, one who addresses you first, one who talks desirable words.

One who is valorous and one who is not infatuated with valour. 1.13

He was learned, never told lies, one who worships elders of his own accord, one who was liked by his subjects and one who loved them. 1.14

He was kind, one who has conquered anger, one who worshipped Brahmins of his own accord, one who has pity towards suffering people, an expert in Dharma, One who daily controlled his self, and one who is pure. 1.15

He was one, who thought like his race, one who followed the royal dharma and one who believed that he should obtain fame and attain heaven by his deeds. 1.16

He being learned was not interested in actions not leading to welfare, disinterested in shallow talks, and used to talk like one who had control over his words. 1.17

He was young, free from sickness, expert in conversation, one who knew the time and place to do things, one who could judge people and an unsurpassed sage of the world. 1.18

Endowed with such good qualities, that son of a king became well liked by his people, to whom he appeared as their own soul walking outside their body. 1.19

Thoroughly learning all branches of knowledge, in accordance with tradition, he knew Veda and its branches and that elder brother of Bharatha was a better expert than his father in archery. 1.20

Blessed with auspiciousness, he was obedient to sages, one who spoke only truth, one who is frank, and one who considers himself controllable by Brahmins who were experts in Dharma and Artha. 1.21

An expert in the implications of Dharma, Artha and Kama, he was very intelligent and had excellent memory. He possessed worldly wisdom and was an expert in Vedic rituals. 1.22

He was modest, did not show out his feelings and one who could keep things secret and he had many friends to help him. His anger and joy were never in vain and he knew when to sacrifice and when to show restraint. 1.23

He had firm devotion, controlled emotions and did not accept anything bad. He never spoke bad words, was never lazy, always vigilant and knew his own weaknesses as well as that of others. 1.24

He was an expert in Sastras, was always grateful, a great judge of men, and was skilled in favouring or giving punishment according to law. 1.25

He was an expert in identifying the right people and encouraging them and could identify those who should be punished. He knew the right means to raise revenue and correctly spend the money so raised. 1.26

He had mastery over scriptures as well as those branches of knowledge that were inter connected and sought pleasure only after following Dharma and principles of Artha He never spent his time unnecessarily. 1.27

He was learned in arts and crafts as a means of entertainment and knew how to spend wealth. He was an expert in riding elephants and controlling horses. 1.28

He was an expert archer and was well recognized in driving and control chariots. He knew how to control his army and how to march against his enemies. 1.29

In the battlefield even angry devas and asuras could not rile or upset him, He was never jealous and had a great control over his anger. He was neither proud nor malicious, never insulted a living being and never bowed to others due to pressure. 1.30

Thus endowed with great virtues that prince was a darling of his subjects and was held in great esteem in all the three worlds and in intelligence he was equal to Bruhaspathi and in Valour Devendra. 1.31

That darling of all his subjects was a source of joy to his father and That Rama due to his virtues was shining like a sun. 1.32

He who was full of penances was one with undefeatable prowess and was equal to the guardians of earth and was desired by the earth as her king. 1.33

Seeing his son blessed with varied virtues, the king Dasaratha, the destroyer of his enemies started thinking. 1.34

Then that aged king who had a very long life thought "How can Rama become a king while I am alive? How can I get the pleasure of seeing that?" 1.35

The thought that how he can see his darling son being crowned arose in the mind of the king very often. 1.36

"Rama has got great desire to increase the welfare of this world and he shows compassion to all people like the rain god and he is dearer than me to my people." 1.37

"He is equal in valour to Indra and Yama, equal in wisdom to Bruhaspathi, equal in firmness to the mountain and he has more virtues than me." 1.38

"If I am able to see now my son ruling all over the earth, I would be attaining the joy of attaining heaven in this earth." 1.39

King Dasaratha then evaluated Rama along with his ministers and found many matchless good qualities not found in any king and finding that these qualities are praiseworthy, he decided to crown him as junior king [Prince Reagent]. 1.40-1.41

Then King Dasaratha then told his minister about the bad omens seen in heaven, earth and the sky and thought that old age has conquered his body. 1.42

Then thinking about Rama with a face like full moon and who was a remover of sorrows and a darling of the people, he thought that if he is crowned his sorrow will come to an end. 1.43

That king, the soul of Dharma, for protecting his as well as his subjects' welfare, realizing that a proper time has come, with great love hastened to perform the coronation of Sri Rama. 1.44

The king sent invitations to the people residing in various cities as well as the villagers of the earth including their chiefs as well as various kings. 1.45

The king did not invite the king of Kekaya and Janaka, with a view that they are far away and could hear the joyous news later. 1.46

King Dasaratha adorned himself properly received them respectfully presented them with ornaments and houses and people felt that they were seeing Lord Brahma. 1.47

When Dasaratha, the tormentor of enemies occupied his seat, all other kings who were loved by their subjects entered. 1.48

All those kings occupied their various seats facing king Dasaratha following the royal tradition. 1.49

The king was surrounded by feudatory kings endowed with modesty were well received and residents of cities and villages surrounded and respected the king like devas respect Lord Indra with one thousand eyes. 1.50

This is the end of First Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.


2. Dasaratha's Proposal of Rama as Yuvaraja

[Dasaratha organizes a meeting of his citizens, ministers, Brahmins as well as kings. He proposes that Rama should be made Yuvaraja. Not only people approve but defend that decision.]

After that the king of the earth after inviting all the invited people and spoke these nectar like words aimed at their welfare. 2.1

The king who was the lord of men, with a deep, loud, attractive, rumbling and incomparable voice which was like the sound of a drum and rumbling of a cloud addressed the kings and said. 2.2-2.3

"It is well known to you, that this kingdom of mine has been ruled by my predecessors who were great kings and that they looked after their subjects as if they were their children." 2.4

"I, who belong to the Ikshuvaku clan whose great kings ruled this earth, want to accomplish complete welfare of all the people of this entire world." 2.5

"While following the path trodden by my ancestors, I also have protected my people by being ever vigilant." 2.6

"Looking after the welfare of all the people under the shadow white flag, my body has become old." 2.7

"Having spent thousands of years of my life, this body has decayed and so I am desirous of taking rest." 2.8

"I have become greatly exhausted by carrying the burden of the rule of dharma with great might and courage, which cannot be done by those who have not won over their sense organs." 2.9

"So I wish, after convincing all those who have assembled here including the learned Brahmins, to consecrate my son to look after the welfare of the people and then take rest." 2.10

"My eldest son Rama, the conqueror of enemy cities, who is equal to Indra in prowess, has indeed inherited all my virtues." 2.11

"I am pleased to install the upholder of Dharma and the greatest among men Rama, who resembles the moon, as my Yuvaraja [Heir apparent / prince in waiting] on the day whose star is Pushyam [Poosam]." 2.12

"If that elder brother of Lakshmana who has a great luster is made the king, all the three worlds would get a better king." 2.13

"When such a son like Rama is entrusted the welfare of the three worlds without any delay, I would become relieved of all my worries." 2.14

"This well thought out decision, though it is favourable to my thoughts, you all should give your consent, as to what decision I should take?" 2.15

"Though this decision is one which I like, please think over and tell me any other method that would bring prosperity to our country, as an open discussion will bring prosperity." 2.16

Hearing these words from the king, the other kings became happy and like a peacock producing pleasing sound on seeing a thick cloud, welcomed the decision. 2.17

The affectionate sounds of joy filled cries of the multitude of people which came from that hall seemed to shake that place. 2.18

Hearing the opinion of Dasaratha who was expert in Dharma Sastras, all Brahmins, chiefs of people and other citizens, deliberated jointly and knowing each other's mind came to an unanimous conclusion and addressed king Dasaratha as follows. 2.19-2.20

"Oh king you are our old ruler who is thousands of year old and so consecrate Rama as our Yuvaraja of this kingdom." 2.21

"We desire that the great hero, who is a well-armed valorous one of Raghu clan, should ride on the elephant with his shadow falling on the royal flag." 2.22

Hearing these words from them, pretending that he was not aware of the wish of their mind, Dasaratha asked them. 2.23

"Oh kings, as soon as you all heard my words, you have expressed your desire to make Rama the king, and this creates a doubt in my mind, whether you have said it in the present context." 2.24

"When I am ruling this earth following Dharma, why are you desiring to make my son as Yuvaraja, Please explain." 2.25

All the great people there as well as the citizens said, "Your son has several auspicious qualities which will make him a great king." 2.26

"Oh king, please listen, we shall now speak about the good virtues Rama who is blessed with good qualities, who is brave and who is like devas and who has happiness to others." 2.27

"Oh king, Rama by his divine virtues is equal to Indra, truly valorous one and is greatly distinguished among the members of Ikshuvaku clan." 2.28

"Rama is a good man of the world, one who follows Dharma with sincerity, and even Dharma attains fulfillment in him along with prosperity." 2.29

"As far as welfare of people is concerned he is like the moon, in patience he is like earth, in wisdom he is equal to Bruhaspathi and in valour, he is equal to Indra." 2.30

"He is a follower of Dharma, a votary of truth, a man with good conduct who is free from envy, one with patience, one who consoles others, gentle, grateful, and one who has control over his sense organs." 2.31

"Rama is soft, stable in thoughts, always humble, envy less, sweet conversationalist with human beings, votary of truth, one having great knowledge of Sasthras, one who serves Brahmins and elderly people, one with matchless fame and one with growing luster in this world." 2.32-2.33

"He is most competent in using weapons among all devas, asuras and one who has properly learned all knowledge like penance and a learned one in shastras, Vedas and all their branches." 2.34

"That elder brother of Bharatha is the greatest expert in music in this world and he is pious, one of noble descent, one whose mind is free from meanness and a very intelligent one." 2.35

"He is an expert in Dharma and Artha, has been well instructed in all matters by best of Brahmins and whenever he and Lakshmana participate in war for a village or town, they never return without victory." 2.36

"When returns from the battle field either on an elephant or on a chariot, always he enquires about the welfare like his own relative and he also enquires about their son, sacred fire, wives, servants and disciples in great detail according to the protocol." 2.37-2.38

"That tiger among men Rama always asks us whether our disciples obey us and also whether they are doing their job properly." 2.39

'Rama becomes very sad at the misfortunes of people and becomes happy like our own father on happy occasions." 2.40

"He is an votary of truth, a great archer, one who serves senior citizens, one who has won over his sense organs, one who speaks with a smiling face and one who sincerely follows Dharma." 2.41

"He brings about unity of people and not interested in creating clashes of opinions and is as eloquent as Bruhaspathi in debates." 2.42

"Rama who attracts the entire world, has charming eye brows and copper coloured eyes and blessed with Valour, courage and heroism and looks like Lord Vishnu to us." 2.43

"He is learned in the principles of administration of peoples, and passion does not over power his senses and he is capable of ruling all the three worlds and so of ruling only earth?" 2.44

"His emotions like anger or love do not go waste and he puts to death those who deserve to doe according to justice and does not get upset over those who deserve mercy." 2.45

"Whenever a person makes him happy, he makes him wealthy and Like the Lord Sun with his great luster, Rama also shines and he is serene, the lord of all people and one who causes happiness to the good people." 2.46-2.47

"Rama is full of all good qualities, truly valorous, incomparable ruler and will not the earth thirst for such a ruler?" 2.48

"Oh king Dasaratha, due to your great fortune you got a son like him and he looks like the great son Kashyapa born to Maricha." 2.49

"Gandharwas, devas, asuras human beings, uragas along with all the people living in cities as well as villages and people who are living in neighboring countries wish Rama with strength, health and long life." 2.50-2.51

"Women, old people, young girls without fail during morning and evening are saluting all devas for the sake of the very famous Rama." 2.52

"Oh god like king, Let their prayer be fulfilled, because of your effort in this direction. We all would like to see the son of a great king like you, with a black colour of a blue lotus, who punishes all his enemies as our Yuvaraja." 2.53

"Oh king who fulfills our wishes, you should with a joyful heart install your son who is equal to the god of gods [Vishnu] who is interested in the welfare of the entire world and one who welcomes nobility as your heir for the welfare of all of us without delay." 2.54

This is the end of Second Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

3. Rama's Coronation Arrangements

[After the king requests Vasishta to make arrangements for the coronation for the next day, he makes all arrangements. Dasaratha summons Rama and informs about it. Kausalya becomes greatly happy.]

The king with joy saw all those people who were saluting him who with folded hands similar to a lotus bud and told them, loving words which would be good to them. 3.1

"I am greatly pleased to appoint my eldest beloved son with matchless splendour as per your request as the Yuvaraja" 3.2

The king after honouring the people who had come as per his invitation, addressed Vasishta, Vamadeva and other Brahmins who were listening to him. 3.3

"This auspicious month Chithra [April-May] with blossoms of divine flowers is sacred and let all arrangements be made to crown Rama as Yuvaraja" and all the people greatly applauded this declaration of his. 3.4

When the tumult among the people has calmed down, the lord of the people Dasaratha spoke the following words to Vasishta who was the tiger among sages. 3.5

"Oh God like sage, it is proper for you to issue necessary instructions, to keep ready the things that are needed to the rituals connected with the coronation of Rama." 3.6

"Hearing the words of the king that best among Brahmins Vasishta, with folded hands in front of the king gave the following order." 3.7

"You have to arrange in the hall for conducting sacrifices of the king, gold and other precious metals, precious gems, articles necessary for worship, necessary herbs, garlands of white flowers, puffed rice, and also honey, ghee, fresh cloths, chariot, weapons of all types, army with its four divisions, an auspicious looking elephant, fans made of the hairs of Yak, white flag, decorative umbrella, hundred golden pots with great luster shining like fire, bulls with their horns covered in gold and a complete tiger skin." 3.8-3.11

"If any other thing which are small are required at that time, it may be arranged. The private apartment of the king as well as the entire town may be decorated and the gates of the town may be decorated with sandal paste and flowers and worshipped with sweet smelling lighted incense." 3.12-3.13

"Arrangements may be made to feed hundred thousand Brahmins to their hearts content by cooking good quality rice with milk and curd." 3.14

"Tomorrow morning after receiving the chiefs of Brahmins hospitably, they may be given ghee, puffed rice and curd as well as monetary gifts." 3.15

"As soon as the sun rises tomorrow laudatory speech should be made and seats arranged for all the Brahmins who have been invited." 3.16

"The highways should be sprinkled with water and flags tied on both sides. Actors and well-dressed courtesans should reach the second enclosure of the apartment and be seated there." 3.17

"In temples people should assemble with cooked rice and other food as well as with garland separately and they should be given monetary gifts." 3.18

"Let all the soldiers who are fully alert with long swords tied to their waist wearing new cloths enter in the courtyard of the glorious king." 3.19

Those highly disciplined sage, after giving this order and after informing the king, also attended to many other things to be done. 3.20

Those great Brahmins who were happy and satisfied with the arrangements approached the king and told him that all necessary actions have been taken. 3.21

Then that king with great luster told Sumanthra, "Bring the self-restrained Rama immediately before me." 3.22

That Sumanthra acknowledged the king's order and said "So be it", and being a great charioteer went to bring Rama in the chariot. 3.23

Afterwards the kings of the eastern, northern, southern and western countries, kings who were not Aryans, kings of Aryan origin, the kings of the people of forest and mountains paid Homage to Dasaratha and he was like Indra surrounded by the devas. 3.24-3.25

The royal saint Dasaratha sitting in the palace like Indra surrounded by the maruths, saw his son approaching him in a chariot. 3.26

Rama was like a king of Gandharwas and was famous for his courage in the world. He had long arms, great strength, walked like an elephant in rut, greatly beautiful with a face like the moon, blessed with beauty, generosity and valour and captivating even men with his beauty. He looked like the rain god entering an area burnt with heat and even after looking at him with concentration, the king was not satisfied. 3.27-3.29

Sumanthra helped Rama in getting down from the splendid chariot and as Rama went before his father with folded hands, he followed him. 3.30

That great man Rama along with the charioteer Sumanthra climbed in to the palace which was like the Kailasa Mountain. 3.31

Going towards his father with folded hands, when he went near, he bowed deeply, pronounced his own name and saluted his father's feet. 3.32

That king seeing his saluting son near him, drew him near, holding his folded hands and hugged him. 3.33

The king offered a splendid seat decorated with gold and gems which was lofty, divine and also best of the seats. 3.34

When Rama sat on the great seat, it shined further, like the rising lustrous sun making the Mount Meru to shine further. 3.35

That assembly added further to its luster by Rama, like the full moon adding luster to the autumnal sky with its bright stars. 3.36

That great king was overjoyed on seeing his son and felt as if he was seeing his own image in a well decorated mirror. 3.37

That great one among those with sons, after calling him with a smile, like sage Kashyapa calling his son Indra, spoke to him as follows. 3.38

"Oh Rama, you are the worthy son born to my eldest wife who is worthy and since you have excellent virtues, you are my beloved one." 3.39

"Since you have attracted the people with your great virtues and for that son when moon enters the Pushya [Poosam] star, you would be crowned as their Yuvaraja." 3.40

"You are by nature attractive and one possessed with humility and though you possess all good virtues, I am speaking to your good due to my affection to you." 3.41

"Always endowed with humility and one with victory over his sense organs, you should try to be away from sorrows caused by anger and desire." 3.42

"By your behaviour directly or indirectly, keep all the ministers and your subjects in a happy frame of mind." 3.43

"You should rule the earth by keeping the storehouses of grains and weapons always full by making frequent collections, by keeping your subjects happy and devoted, for then your friends would be happy as if they have obtained deathlessness like the devas. For achieving this you should keep your mind subdued." 3.44-3.45

Hearing that, the friends of Rama who were interested in his welfare, rushed to meet Kausalya and informed her. 3.46

She gave those messengers who brought the good news presents of cows, gold and various type of gems. 3.47

Thereafter Rama, after saluting the king, got in to his chariot and reached his great home after being worshipped by large number of people. 3.48

Those citizens who heard the proclamation by the king felt as if they have gained the most beneficial objective, took leave from the king, reached their homes and worshipped their gods. 3.49

This is the end of Third Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

4. Rama's Coronation Preparation

[Dasaratha summons Rama again and tells him that he sees bad dreams often. So he wants to complete the coronation the next day itself. He tells Rama to observe the rituals along with Sita. Rama goes and meets his mother who is doing special worship. There he meets Lakshmana.]

After all the citizens departed, the king who was an expert decision maker along with his ministers further discussed and took a decision that Rama with eyes like red lotus flower should be made in to the Yuvaraja when it is Pushya[poosa Nakshatra]. 4.1-4.2

The king Dasaratha entered in to his inner apartment, asked his charioteer to bring Rama once again to him. 4.3

As soon as the charioteer heard the order, he again went to Rama's house to again bring him. 4.4

When the door keepers informed the arrival of the charioteer again, Rama was filled with apprehension. 4.5

Rama after admitting him quickly told him, "Why did you come back again? Please tell me completely." 4.6

Hearing that, the charioteer told him. "The king wants to see you again. It is for you to decide whether to go or not." 4.7

Hearing these words of the Charioteer, Rama immediately departed to the king's home, to see the king again. 4.8

The king Dasaratha hearing the news of arrival of Rama, made him enter inside, so that he can tell him a very pleasing news. 4.9

While Rama was entering the home of his father, from a distance he was saluting him with folded hands and bending slightly in reverence. 4.10

The king after straightening him embraced him, offered him a great seat and then told him again. 4.11

"Oh Rama, after living for long years I have become old having enjoyed all the pleasures that I desired and I have conducted hundreds of sacrifices where food in plenty as well as lot of money was distributed." 4.12

"Oh great man, I have also got a great son who is matchless in the earth, in you, whom I love very much, I have done several fire sacrifices and also have learnt Vedas." 4.13

"Oh Valorous one, I have experienced all my desired pleasures, and I have repaid my debt to devas, sages and manes as also myself." 4.14

"I do not have any other duty left except your coronation, and for that reason you have to do whatever I tell you now." 4.15

"Today all my subjects want you to be their king and for that reason my dear son, I shall make you my Yuvaraja." 4.16
"Nowadays I am seeing very bad horrible dreams also meteors and thunders with great noise are falling in the day time itself." 4.17

"The bad planets Sun, Rahu and mars have moved on to my birth star, the astrologers say." 4.18

"When such bad omens occur, most probably, I will meet with his death or face great calamities." 4.19

"Oh Rama, for that reason, before I lose the grip on my mind, I want to complete the coronation, as you know the mind of people is not stable." 4.20

"Today is Punarvasu [Punartham] and tomorrow it will be Pushyam [poosam] and astrologers say this is highly suitable and auspicious for the coronation." 4.21

"My mind is telling me, "Crown Rama in the Pushya Nakshatra itself", oh slayer of enemies so I I am hastening it up and holding the coronation as Yuvaraja tomorrow itself." 4.22

"For that reason from today onwards, you along with my daughter in law Sita should behave with self-restraint during nights and observe fast along with her and sleep on a bed of Durba." 4.23

"Since acts like this on such occasion face several impediments, let your friends also protect you from all sides." 4.24

"I think the time for consecration should be chosen when the time Bharatha is away from here." 4.25

"Your brother Bharatha desires to travel in path of virtue and has always followed his elder brother and is the follower of dharma, compassionate and one who has won over his sense organs." 4.26

"But I think that the mind of human being is not stable and this applies even to good people who has fixed their mind to Dharma." 4.27

After telling like this about the coronation that was to take place the next day, he permitted Rama to go back and after thus permitted, Rama after saluting his father went back to his home." 4.28

After the king has fixed the time for his crowning, Rama went to his house and after entering immediately went to the private quarters of the king to meet his mother." 4.29

There he saw his mother wearing silk and praying for the royal fortune of himself to the gods in the prayer room. 4.30

Having heard about the happy news of the coronation of Rama, Sumithra and Lakshmana had already arrived there and Sita was summoned to come there before arrival of Rama. 4.31

At That time Kausalya stood there with half closed eyes accompanied by Sumithra, Lakshmana and Sita. 4.32

Hearing that her son will be crowned on the Pushya star, she was praying the God Janardhana holding her breath. 4.33

Rama approached his mother doing religious observations, saluted her and with joy told these blameless words. 4.34

"Oh mother, father has deputed me to acts of ruling the people and as per his order the crowning will take place tomorrow." 4.35

"This night Sita also will fast along with me and this was told by my father along with the teachers and priests." 4.36

"That coronation will take place tomorrow and please perform all the appropriate auspicious rituals to me and Vaidehi [Sita]." 4.37

Kausalya after hearing the news, which she desired for a long time, spoke sweetly but indistinctly due to her shedding tears of joy. 4.38

"Oh son, Oh Rama, may you live for a long time. May your enemies be destroyed. May you become prosperous and bring joy to my relatives and those of Sumithra." 4.39

"Oh Rama, you were born to me and your father on a lucky star and because of that you have brought joy to your father by your virtues. What a great thing that you were born." 4.40

"Oh lotus eyed one, it is joyful to see that my great penances are in vain and dear son, now the wealth of Ikshuvaku clan would take refuge in you." 4.41

Hearing these words Rama looked at his brother sitting with folded hands and saluting him and told him with a smile. 4.42

"Oh Lakshmana rule this earth along with me, and as you are my second inner self, this wealth also will reach you." 4.43

"Oh son of Sumithra enjoy all the pleasures that you wished for and you may also enjoy the fruits of royalty, for I desire this life and kingdom only for your sake." 4.44

After telling like this to Lakshmana and after saluting his mother, Rama took leave from them and along with Sita went to his home. 4.45

This is the end of Fourth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

5. Rama's Coronation Further Preparation

[Dasaratha sends sage Vasishta to Rama to instruct on the rituals to be observed. Vasishta carries out his instructions. On his way back, Vasishta observes the people of Ayodhya in a festive mood.]

After giving farewell to Rama, Dasaratha sent word to Vasishta who was his priest to discuss about the coronation that was to take place next day and told him 5.1

"Oh sage with wealth of penance, please go to Rama, the son of Kakustha clan and advise him to observe fast along with my daughter in law and strictly observe the rituals. 5.2

That god like sage Vasishta, who was an expert in Vedas, best among those who know Manthras and one who observes strict penance said "Let it be so" and mounted the best of chariots worthy of Brahmins, went to the home of Rama to advise him to observe fast according to the Manthras. 5.3-5.4

That great sage Vasishta went to the home of Rama, like a mass of white glittering clouds, entered the home and crossed the first three sections on the chariot itself. 5.5

Rama, knowing about the visit by the honoured sage, came out of his house in great haste and excitement, to show suitable honours to him. 5.6

Thereafter he neared the chariot of the sage and himself helped the very intelligent sage to alight from the chariot. 5.7

That sage seeing the humble Rama, who is fit to be loved, addressed him, caused him delight and gratified him. 5.8

"Oh Rama, Your father is greatly pleased with you and would make you Yuvaraja tomorrow and so you and Sita must observe fast today." 5.9

"Your well pleased father is going to make you Yuvaraja tomorrow early morning as did your forefathers Nahusha and Yayathi." 5.10

After having spoken thus to him, That sage saw that Rama and Sita were observing proper rituals and made them undertake the fast after chanting proper Manthras. 5.11

Then that Guru of the king was duly honoured by Rama who was from the clan of Kakustha, took leave from him and then departed. 5.12

Rama who was seated with his friends who talked dear things, after duly taking leave from them, entered in to his apartment. 5.13

Rama's residence filled with happy men and women, looked like a lake full of splendid lotus flowers with large number on intoxicated birds. 5.14

That Vasishta after leaving Rama's home which resembled the king's palace, found that the high way was greatly crowded with people. 5.15

Groups and groups of people had completely filled the royal high way and it was jammed on all sides by people filled with ecstasy. 5.16

Then from the royal high way sounds emerged of the meeting together and exultations of great joy and it resembled the roaring of the sea. 5.17

On that day the thoroughfares of the city of Ayodhya were cleaned and sprinkled with water and the homes of people were decked with forest garlands and flags. 5.18

Then all women, men, children and old people living in Ayodhya desiring to see the Coronation of Rama longed for the sun rise. 5.19

People were longing to see that greatest celebration of Ayodhya, so that their joy would be enhanced by dressing up well with ornaments. 5.20

The priest seeing that the high way was thronged with men and women, who were standing on both sides, slowly went and reached the palace. 5.21

Having climbed up the royal palace which was like the peak of Kailasa he met the king and this resembled Bruhaspathi meeting with Indra. 5.22

Having seen him arrive the king left his throne, enquired from him, whether he has carried out his wishes and the sage said, "Yes". 5.23

Then all those members of the assembly who were all occupying, seats of equal glamour stood up and saluted sage Vasishta. 5.24

The king after being permitted by his Guru, took leave of his assembly and entered his inner apartment like a lion entering its cave in the mountain. 5.25

The king entered his private apartment which resembled the palace of Indra and which was thronged with well dressed and ornamented women, illuminating the place with his luster like the moon illuminates the sky. 5.26

This is the end of Fifth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.


6. Rama's Observation of Rituals

[Rama and Sita perform rituals and woke up early morning. Ayodhya was celebrating the great function and all thoroughfares were full of happy people.]

After the departure of the family priest Rama took bath and worshipped Lord Narayana with great concentration along with his wife who had broad eyes. 6.1

Then in accordance with the rituals he held on his head a pot of Havis [cooked rice] and performed oblations with ghee and Havis on the fire to Lord Vishnu. 6.2

Then Rama, the son of a great man, ate the remaining Havis, for his own welfare, adopting silence meditated on Lord Vishnu with a disciplined mind and slept along with Sita on the divine temple of Lord Vishnu on a bed of Durba grass. 6.3-6.4

He awoke when one quarter of the night was remaining and got his home decorated in a befitting manner. 6.5

Then after hearing the sweet songs of pleasant words from the bards and poets, he performed his early morning rituals and chanted Gayathri with great devotion. 6.6

Dressed in spotless silk attire, with a deeply bowed head, he praised the killer of Madhu and listened to the purificatory rites by the Brahmins. 6.7

Thereafter in a sweet majestic voice they proclaimed the auspiciousness of the day and the entire Ayodhya was filled with sounds of musical instruments. 6.8

Hearing that Rama undertook fast along with the princess of Videha, from their home, the people of Ayodhya became happy. 6.9

All the citizens of Ayodhya, hearing about the coronation of Rama, started decorating their house from dawn itself. 6.10

On the temple towers surrounded by white clouds, in four road junctions, on thoroughfares, on tall monuments, on towers of forts, on shops of merchants selling various goods, on prosperous and great houses, on all public halls and on tall trees, banners of various colours were hung. 6.11-6.13

Groups of actors, dancers and musicians entertained people by pleasing their mind and heart and these sounds could be heard everywhere. 6.14

When the time for coronation of Rama was approaching people in cross roads and in private homes talked only about the coronation. 6.15

Similarly boys playing in groups in front of their homes were only talking about stories relating to the crowning of Rama. 6.16

On the occasion of the coronation Of Rama, the royal highway was strewn with flowers and made fragrant by burning of incense sticks. 6.17

Having a doubt that the coronation may prolong till night, for providing light to the high ways. trees full of lamps were provided all over. 6.18

All the people living in the city, after decorating it were eagerly desiring to see the coronation of Rama as Yuvaraja and had assembled in road junctions, public halls in groups and were praising king Dasaratha. 6.19-6.20

"Oh, our great king Dasaratha is the great son of Ikshuvaku clan, and realizing that he has become old, he is doing this coronation of Rama." 6.21

"We are all blessed to have Rama as our king, since he knows the good and bad people and rule for a very long time." 6.22

"Being one without pride, very learned, a follower of Dharma and lover of his brothers, That Rama would also love all of us like his brothers." 6.23

"Let the soul of Dharma and the spotless Dasaratha live long, for only by his grace we are able to see the coronation of Rama." 6.24

All these conversations were also being heard by the hordes of people who have come from the village, who have come to the town hearing the news." 6.25

At that time the city was overflowing from the crowd of people who have come from the villages from different directions to see the coronation of Rama. 6.26

Due to the moving to and fro from a huge crowd of men, a noise rose from there which was like roaring sound of the ocean with a great speed. 6.27

Crowded by citizens wishing to see the coronation of Rama, who have arrived from all directions, Ayodhya resembled city of Indra and with the sound generated made it resemble the ocean with all its aquatic animals. 6.28

This is the end of Sixth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.


7. Mandhara's Advice to Kaikeyi

[The hunchback Mandhara, who is the personal servant of Kakieyi, tells her that the crowning of Rama is a bad news to Kaikeyi. She is rebuffed as Kaikeyi becomes happy with the news.]

The family maid servant who was living with her from the time of her birth, without any specific reason came out of the white palace which shined like moon. 7.1

She saw the royal high way of Ayodhya sprinkled with water and spread with flowers from that palace. 7.2

Mandhara was perplexed at seeing from the palace, the city decorated with very costly banners and flags as also the auspiciously decorated thoroughfares which usually were free, crowded with people who had washed their heads and occupied by people holding garlands and sweets in their hands. The temples with white doors were reverberating with the Vedic chant of great Brahmins and was crowded with people. Several types of musical instruments were blowing out musical sound. The city was filled up with joyful horses and elephants as well as mowing bulls and cows. The exceeding pleased citizens were tying flags everywhere. 7.3-7.6

That Mandhara seeing, the royal nurse maid with a joyful fully awake eyes and clad in white silk standing nearby asked her. 7.7

"Why is mother of Rama who is miserly, gifting away wealth with great joy to men?" 7.8

"Why are people greatly joyous? Please tell me what the delighted king is proposing to do?" 7.9

That nurse maid bursting with great joy told the hunchback about the luck of Rama with greater joy. 7.10

"Tomorrow the king Dasaratha is going to celebrate the coronation as Yuvaraja of the blemish less Rama who has conquered his anger" 7.11

Hearing the words of the nursemaid, that hunchback became infuriated, descended from the palace which looked like Kailasa peak. 7.12

That sinful looking Mandhara burning with anger reached Kaikeyi who was reclining upon her couch and told her. 7.13

"Oh fool, get up. Why are you sleeping without fear, in spite of the fact that you are being submerged in the flood of sorrow, which you are not realizing?" 7.14

"Oh Lady who appears to be loved by her husband, Oh undesired one, you are playing with your good fortune which is like the unstable river in summer season." 7.15

Hearing the harsh words spoken by the sinful furious hunchback, Kaikeyi became worried. 7.16

Kaikeyi told that hunchback, "Oh Mandhara is everything all right? I am seeing you with a downcast face and greatly distressed." 7.17

That Mandhara who was an expert in speech, having heard the words of Kaikeyi spoken with sweetness told. 7.18

That hunchback becoming more worried, being a do-gooder of Kaikeyi, greatly agitated about separating Rama told. 7.19

"Oh queen, great and never ending destruction is awaiting as Raja is crowning Rama as Yuvaraja" 7.20

"As I am plunged in endless fear and affected by great sorrow, I am feeling as if I am burnt and I have come here seeking your welfare." 7.21

"Oh Kaikeyi, your sorrow is greatly sorrowful to me and without any doubt your prosperity will be mine also." 7.22

"Though Born in a royal family and being the chief wife of a king and you do not understand the cruelty of the state craft." 7.23

"Though he is the follower of Dharma in public, he is really deceitful. He speaks sweetly and affectionately but is cruel and you who is innocent are not able follow his guile." 7.24

"When your husband confers with you he uses meaningless appeasing words but he has conferred good things to Kausalya only." 7.25

"That soul of wickedness, having side tracked Bharatha by sending him to the house of your relations, he will give away the kingdom to Rama devoid of thorns." 7.26

"Oh child, like a mother I am telling you the truth that you are holding a venomous serpent on your lap, who is nobody else but your husband." 7.27

"The king Dasaratha has done you and Bharatha the same thing that a serpent or an enemy would have done." 7.28

"Oh child, who is accustomed only to comfort, with good words devoid of any truth, that sinner has established Rama in this kingdom and you and your son have been ruined." 7.29

"Oh Kaikeyi, the correct time to act to protect your happiness has come, Oh lady who is looking with awe, please save yourselves, Bharatha and me." 7.30

After hearing her words that Kaikeyi, with a pretty form who was lying on her couch till then, rose completely with joy, like a crescent of the autumn moon. 7.31

That Kaikeyi, who became extremely pleased, gave a marvelous ornament to the hunch back causing great surprise in her. 7.32

Kaikeyi, that greatly delighted lady after giving the ornament to the hunchback, again spoke these words to her. 7.33

"Oh Mandhara, the news that you gave me is very pleasant to me and the gift that I gave you is for informing this pleasant news. Shall I give you more gifts?" 7.34

"I do not make any distinction between Rama and Bharatha and I am happy that Rama is being consecrated as the king." 7.35

"Oh Mandhara meriting my love, there is nothing more pleasing to me than the news that you gave and my joy cannot be easily expressed by words. Oh best among those dear to me, you have now told me the best news and ask for another reward." 7.36

This is the end of Seventh Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.


8. Mandhara's Further Advice to Kaikeyi

[Mandhara tries to tell in skilful words, the problems that may arise when Rama becomes the king. She says that Kaikeyi would be made a slave by her co-wife.]

Mandhara thoroughly disgusted and filled with rage and sorrow, rejected that ornament and said. 8.1

"Oh childish lady, why are you happy at the inappropriate time and do not realize that you are in the middle of a ocean of sorrow." 8.2

"Oh great lady, a great misfortune has fallen on you and at this time you should become sad instead of being happy and because of that though I am sad at your present state I am laughing." 8.3

"I am feeling sorry about your misinterpretation. Will an intelligent woman become happy at the prosperity of her enemy like co-wife's son?" 8.4

"Bharatha has equal claim to the kingdom like Rama and is the source of fear to Rama. Thinking it over I feel sad for danger comes from one who fears." 8.5

"The valorous Lakshmana with a great bow has taken to Rama's soul and Shatrugna has similar feelings like Lakshmana towards Bharatha." 8.6

"Oh pretty lady, in the order of succession according to birth also Bharatha is just next to Rama, and the younger ones do not have even a remote chance." 8.7

"Rama is competent and learned in the royal Dharma and one who does things at appropriate time. Out of fear, when I think of your son, I am trembling." 8.8

"Kausalya whose son is going to be crowned tomorrow as Yuvaraja in the Pushya star is indeed lucky. 8.9

"To Kausalya having obtained this great fame by getting her enemies destroyed, you have to serve with folded hands like maid." 8.10

"If you, along with us, become her maid, then your son also has to become the slave of Rama." 8.11

"The great women of Rama would indeed be very happy and with the downfall of Bharatha, your daughter in law would be deprived of joy." 8.12

Seeing here very favourite Mandhara talking this way, the great lady Kaikeyi started praising the qualities of Rama. 8.13

"Rama is a follower of Dharma and he has been taught self-restraint by his Gurus and he is an votary of truth and one who is honest and grateful. And being the eldest son of the king, the kingdom should go to him." 8.14

"He who has a long life would protect his brothers as well as servants like a father and oh hunchback, why you are you sorrowing to hear about the coronation of Rama." 8.15

"After one hundred years the best among men, Bharatha also would definitely get the kingdom of his father and grandfather." 8.16

"Oh Mandhara you are getting prosperity as of now and in future also you would be getting the same. Why are you grieving?" 8.17

"If I have appreciation to Bharatha, I have more appreciation to Rama as he serves me better than his mother Kausalya." 8.18

"If this kingdom belongs to Rama, then it belongs to Bharatha also as Rama treats all his brothers as his equal." 8.19

Hearing the words of Kaikeyi Mandhara became greatly sad, and breathing hot and deep she told like this to Kaikeyi. 8.20

"Being stupid, though you are sinking in the wide ocean of grief, you are not realizing the benefits for yourselves." 8.21

"Rama will become the king and afterwards his son will become the king and on the other hand Bharatha would be teased of not being a king." 8.22

"Oh pretty lady, all the sons of a king do not become kings for if all of them are made kings, there would be great problems in ruling of the kingdom." 8.23

"Oh faultless lady Kaikeyi, because of this the kings will entrust the rule of kingdom to the eldest or the son who has great virtues." 8.24

"Oh dear Kaikeyi, when your son is cut off from the royal succession and its comforts, he would become greatly distressed." 8.25

"I have come here wishing for your benefit and you are giving me a gift not understanding that your co-wife is getting prosperity. 8.26

"As soon as Rama gets the kingdom without any problems, it is certain that he would send Bharatha out of this country or even out of the world." 8.27

"Your son from childhood has been sent to his uncle's house and it is the proximity of some one that strengthens the affection." 8.28

"Obediently following Bharatha, Shatrugna also has gone along with him and similarly Lakshmana is attached to Rama." 8.29

"It is heard that the tree which live in the forest, intended for felling is freed even from thorny bushes attached to it." 8.30

"Like Lakshmana protecting Rama, Rama also protects Lakshmana and they are famous as inseparable like Aswini kumara." 8.31

"Because of That Rama will not do even a small sinful act towards Lakshmana but he will definitely harm Bharatha without any doubt." 8.32
"And so send your son directly to the forest from his uncle's house. This would be pleasing to me and beneficial to you." 8.33

"If Bharatha gets the kingdom of his father as her Dharma, then it would be beneficial to you and your clan." 8.34

"Your son is used to great comforts and he is the natural enemy of Rama and how would he live happily if wealth is separated from him." 8.35

"Similar to the leader of the herd of elephants is attacked by a lion in the forest, Bharatha is being overpowered by Rama and it is your duty to save him." 8.36

"You being endowed with prosperity, you have ill-treated your co-wife who is mother of Rama due to pride. Will she not retaliate due to grudge." 8.37

"Oh pretty lady, when this earth with its oceans, towns and cities comes under the control of Rama, you along with Bharatha would become inauspicious and miserable." 8.38

"If Rama takes over this earth, then Bharatha would definitely be destroyed and so now do something to get the kingdom to Bharatha and banish his enemy Rama." 8.39

This is the end of Eighth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

9. Kaikeyi is Influenced by Mandhara

[By the influencing words of Mandhara, Kaikeyi asks Mandhara for a plan to crown Bharatha. Mandhara suggests that she should request for two boons promised earlier by Dasaratha and ask that Bharatha should be crowned and Rama should go to the forest for fourteen years. According to her advice, Kaikeyi strips off all her ornaments and lies on the bare floor of the room.]

Having heard these words, Kaikeyi started burning with rage and breathing with effort and fire like, she told Mandhara. 9.1

"I would immediately send Rama to the forest and get Bharatha crowned as Yuvaraja." 9.2

"Oh Mandhara, do you see any method by which Bharatha would get the kingdom and Rama would be forced to go to forest." 9.3

Addressed like this by Kaikeyi, the sinful Mandhara who was bent upon destroying interests of Rama spoke like this. 9.4

"What a joy, Oh Kaikeyi, please hear me for I will tell you how to make Bharatha alone get the kingdom." 9.5

"Oh Kaikeyi, please hear from what is being told for your welfare as per your desire. Do you remember or are you concealing what you remember?" 9.6

"Oh pretty Kaikeyi, please listen to what I am telling you. I shall tell you and, please listen to it and then think about it." 9.7

Hearing these words of Mandhara, Kaikeyi got up from her well spread bed and told. 9.8

"Oh Mandhara, how can Bharatha get the kingdom and how can Rama not get it? Tell me the means in detail." 9.9

The sinful Mandhara after hearing these words from the great lady, with an aim to destroy welfare of Rama told. 9.10

"Oh lady, your husband went along with other royal saints gave help to Indra in the war between devas and asuras in the southern region and reached the city of Vaijayantha in the Dandaka where Asura Thimidwaja lived. He also took you along with him." 9.11-9.12

"There a very powerful asura called Sambara well known for taking many illusory forms could not be defeated by the devas in the great battle with Indra." 9.13

"In that great battle, the Rakshasa used to kill those wounded by weapons and also when they were sleeping at night." 9.14

"There the very strong Dasaratha fought a very great battle and he was wounded by their weapons and his body was greatly wounded." 9.15

"Oh great lady, he who had fainted was protected because you carried him away from the battle field and there again the asuras wounded him and you saved your husband." 9.16

"Oh auspicious looking one, then he gave you two boons and you told him that you will demand them whenever you need them and then that great king agreed to your proposal." 9.17

"Oh queen, I did know nothing about this matter, till you told me about this, out of our friendship, which I have retained in my memory. Prevent the preparations for Rama's consecration by holding it down." 9.18-9.19

"You request for the boons of crowning of Bharatha and banishment of Rama for fourteen years from the kingdom." 9.20

"If Rama is banished to the forest for fourteen years, your son would have captured the minds of people and would have established himself firmly." 9.21

"Oh Kaikeyi, the daughter of Aswapathi, with great anger enter the room of anger, wear bad smelling dirty cloths and lie down on the bare floor." 9.22

"When the king sees you crying with great sorrow, do not look at him, nor speak to him." 9.23

"I know without doubt that you are the darling of your husband and for your sake the king even will immolate himself in fire." 9.24

"Nor is he capable of seeing you angry or stare at you with anger and for the sake of your love, the king will even forsake his life." 9.25

"The king is not capable of going against your words, Oh dull witted one, please recognize the strength of your charm." 9.26

"The king Dasaratha will give you different types gems, pearls and gold and do not fix your mind on them." 9.27

"Oh great lady, make Dasaratha recollect that he has given you two boons in the war between devas and Asuras and so stand firm in your objective." 9.28

"The descendent of the Raghu can will personally lift you from the floor and then make him settle down and ask for the boons." 9.29

You ask for the boon like this, "Oh great king Bharatha should rule over this country and Rama should be banished to the forest for fourteen years." 9.30

"When Rama lives in the forest for fourteen years, your son will grow strong and strike roots here." 9.31

"Oh lady definitely also ask for the banishment of Rama to the forest because only by that all interests of your son would be accomplished." 9.32

"By banishing Rama to the forest he would lose his charm of attraction, and Bharatha would become great as his enemy would be destroyed." 9.33

"By the time Rama returns back from the forest, Bharatha would have stuck roots and that intellectual son of yours would have gained the affection of the people in company of his friends." 9.34

"You know that the proper time has come to ask for the boons and with force make the king change his intention of making Rama as the king." 9.35

Understanding the extremely meaningful plan as one beneficial, that Kaikeyi became greatly happy and spoke to Mandhara. 9.36

That Kaikeyi who was a lady with a clear vision, hearing the words of the Hunchback was greatly surprised like an immature young girl and adopted the wrong path. 9.37

"Oh hunchback, I did not recognize that you are great and can speak great words. After knowing your intelligence, I think among the hunchbacks in the world, you are the best one." 9.38

"You are the one only interested in doing what is good to me in my affairs as but for you, I would not have known the evil intention of the king." 9.39

"Hunchbacks are physically retarded, crooked, bent and are terrible in appearance but you are like lotus flower bent in breeze." 9.40

"Your chest is tightly fixed and raises up to your shoulders and beneath it your navel and waist are slender and bashful." 9.41

"Oh Mandhara, Your hips are full grown, your breasts are round and plump and your face is like the full moon and you are regally lovely." 9.42

"You are glittering in your waist belt, which is making jingling sounds. Your calves of the legs are strong and your feet long." 9.43

"With your wide thigh bones and clad in silk and with lengthy strides, when you walk in front of me, I feel as if a swan is walking." 9.44

"In addition the thousands of illusory powers which asura Sambara had, are in you too, in many more thousands." 9.45

"Your hump which resembles a long hub of a chariot stores lot of royal powers as well as many magical powers." 9.46

"Oh hunchback, after Rama has gone to the forest after Bharatha is consecrated, I shall decorate the hump of yours with a golden garland." 9.47

"Oh Mandhara, after my objectives in achieved and when I am fully satisfied, I will smear your hump with best quality pure gold." 9.48

"Oh hunchback, I will mark your forehead with a golden Thilaka and for your auspicious face I will make very many gold ornaments." 9.49

"You will walk wearing silk garments like a goddess. With your matchless countenance you will challenge moon for a contest and feeling greatly proud you will attain a great status among your enemies." 9.50-9.51

"Like you are serving me several well ornamented hunchbacks would be serving you always." 9.52

When Kaikeyi was flattering her like this, Mandhara looked at the white Kaikeyi who was shining like a fire in the sacrificial altar lying on her great couch and told her like this. 9.53

"Of fortunate one, there is no point in building a dam after the water has flown out and so perform your auspicious act and show it to the king." 9.54

That broad one eyed, proud because of her intoxicating beauty, thus encouraged by Mandhara, entered the room of anger along with Mandhara and that blessed lady threw the a highly auspicious a very precious pearl necklace costing several hundred thousand as well as several other ornaments and laid down on the gold like floor and then told Mandhara. 9.55-9.57

"Oh hunchback, go and inform Dasaratha that if Bharatha is not crowned and if Rama does not go to the forest I will die." 9.58

"I am neither interested in gold or ornaments or precious gems, If Rama is consecrated as king, that will be the end of my life." 9.59

That hunchback hearing the exceeding powerful and sharp words of the wife of the king, again said these words which are beneficial to Bharatha and harmful to Rama. 9.60

"If Rama gets this kingdom, it is definite that you will suffer and oh auspicious one, you strive in such a manner that your son would be crowned." 9.61

That queen, repeatedly hit by the words of the hunchback became sad as well as angry and she kept her hands on her chest due to great surprise and praised again and again that angry hunchback. 9.62

"Oh hunch back, either you will go and tell the king that I have gone to the land of the dead or inform me about the departure of Rama for a long duration to the forest so that my son Bharatha shall get his desires fulfilled." 9.63

"If Rama does not go to the forest, I do not need cloths, garlands, sandal paste, nor unguents, nor food, nor water nor even life." 9.64

That pretty lady, after telling these horrible words, removed all her ornaments and fell like a Kinnara woman and lay down on the earth without covering herself. 9.65

She who was the wife of the king, with her face darkened by great fury and with a restless mind, stripped off all her ornaments and looked like a dark sky without any stars. 9.66

This is the end of Ninth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

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