Ayodhya Kandam


43. Kausalya Laments

[Kausalya finds fault with Dasaratha for agreeing to the words of the cruel Kaikeyi ans she laments about her sons and Sita.]

Due to sorrow because of parting with her son, Kausalya with grief looked at the worn out king and told the king. 43.1

"The crooked Kaikeyi with the gait of a serpent, has spat the poison on the tiger among men Rama and is now wandering about like a serpent which has cast off its outer skin." 43.2

"That pretty one who has fulfilled her objective by banishing Rama, is like a poisonous serpent in her home and is now prepared to torture me." 43.3

"Had I given my son as her slave, he would after doing his work, beg and eat food and then move about in his own home." 43.4

"You have thrown down Rama from his position as per Kaikeyi's wishes, like a share meant for devatas is given to Asuras on full moon days." 43.5

"My valorous son who walks like the king of elephants and who is an expert in archery, now must be entering the forest along with his wife and Lakshmana." 43.6

"As per desire of Kaikeyi, when you have abandoned them, who have never seen suffering, to live in the forest, what would be their state of affairs?" 43.7

"Those young ones deprived of wealth at a time of real enjoyment have been banished to live a miserable life in forest subsisting on roots and fruits." 43.8

"When will I be able to see again, Rama along with his wife and brother? I wish that time for complete destruction of my sorrows comes now itself." 43.9

"When will the heroes return to Ayodhya and when will the good people of Ayodhya welcome them by hoisting flags and banners?" 43.10

"When will they see the tiger among men returning from the forest and when will the town rejoice like the ocean on a full moon day?" 43.11

"When will the great hero again enter Ayodhya, placing Sita in front of him on the chariot like a bull being preceded by the cow?" 43.12

"When will thousands of people showed the puffed rice on the royal avenue, when my sons who are the destroyer of their enemies enter the town?" 43.13

"When will I see them enter Ayodhya, with pretty ear globes and raising high their powerful weapons and swords and appear like a peak?" 43.14

"When will they offer fruits and flowers to the maids and Brahmins and go round the city?' 43.15

"When will he, steeped in Dharma and who is fully grown up in age and intelligence and who shines like devas, playfully reach me like a three year old?" 43.16

"Oh valorous one, without any doubt, in my previous birth I must have hacked the udders of a cow, when their calves were thirsting for milk." 43.17

"Oh tiger among men, Like a lion separating the cow from its calf, Kaikeyi has separated me from my son like a cow from its calf." 43.18

"I am not interested to live without my only son, who is endowed will all virtues and an expert in all branches of knowledge." 43.19

"I do not have even a little strength to live, without seeing my dear son, who is very strong and who has a powerful body." 43.20

"Due to the separating from my son, I feel that I am being burnt in the fire of grief, like the God Sun burning the earth by his very hot rays." 43.21

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


44. Sumithra Consoles Kausalya

[The balanced Sumithra points out all the positive points of Rama and convinces Kausalya that only good will come out of Rama's going to forest.]

Sumithra devoted to Dharma addressing that great lady Kausalya who was wailing using these words. told. 44.1

"Your son has great virtues and he is the best among men. Why are crying like a ill fated individual?" 44.2

"Your son is a very strong one, based on Dharma and very great one who repudiated the throne to make the words of his great father as the perfect truth. By observing this, he would get desirable fruits even after death. So you should not lament over his action." 44.3 -44.4

"Lakshmana, the ever faultless one who has compassion towards all beings, renders the best form of service to Rama." 44.5

"That Sita who had a pleasant life though knowing well the problems of forest life is following your son, who is the follower of Dharma." 44.6

"That lord is flying the flag of great fame in this world and your son is greatly devoted to the upkeep of Dharma and truth and what has he not got?" 44.7

"Having known about, the purity and might of the great Rama, the sun gods will not hurt his body with his rays." 44.8

"During all times, peace would prevail in the forest and the fire god will serve him by providing proper heat and cold to Rama, there." 44.9

"When the blemish less one is sleeping at night, the moon will touch him with its cool rays just like the father touches the son." 44.10

"When he killed Subahu the son of Thimidwaja who is the greatest among asuras, Lord Brahma had given him with great splendour, several divine weapons. And that valorous tiger among men, who is dependent on his own strength, will fearlessly live in the forest as if he is living in his own palace." 44.11-44.12

"How can not the earth obey his commands, whose aim of arrows assures him of the destruction of all his enemies." 44.13

"Due to the splendour, valour and auspicious courage that he has, he would complete his sojourn in the forest quickly and take over the kingdom." 44.14

"Oh Kausalya, Rama is the Sun to Sun himself, the lord of all lords, auspiciousness to Goddess Lakshmi, the foremost fame of fame itself, patience of patience, god of gods, the best among all beings and what problems would be there for him in the forest or in Ayodhya," 44.15-44.16

"That best among men would be crowned as the king of earth along with Sita as well as divine auspiciousness." 44.17
"Seeing that he was departing from here all the people were shedding tears of sorrow due to the speed of their great grief and that divine unconquerable God who wore grass as well as bark was followed by The Goddess Lakshmi wearing an apparel of grass. What would be difficult for him to do?" 44.18-44.19

"Lakshmana who is an expert in archery is following him fully armed with arrows, swords and other weapons. What would be impossible for him to do?" 44.20

"You would see him returning after a stay in the forest, and Oh God like lady, leave out this sorrow and passionate behaviour and I am telling you the truth." 44.21

"Oh faultless one, oh auspicious one, you would again see him salute you by keeping his head on your feet like a rising moon." 44.22

"When you see him entering again and being crowned, shining in great glory, tears of joy would definitely pour out of your eyes." 44.23

"Do not be sad, my lady for sorrow. Rama will never see sorrow or inauspicious happenings, and you will soon see him along with Sita and Lakshmana." 44.24

"Oh spot less one, when it is your duty to console all others, why this sort of reaction oh lady and why this fear in your mind." 44.25

"Oh lady, you should never be sad for you have a son like Rama and there is no one in the world greater than Rama, who stands on the path of virtue." 44.26

"When you see your son and his friends saluting you, you would shed tears of joy like the clouds in the rainy season." 44.27

"Your son who is capable of blessing with boons would speedily return and with his soft hands massage your feet." 44.28

"Your valorous son will greet and salute you along with his friends and you would drench him with tears of joy like the clouds making the mountain wet." 44.29

"After consoling that mother of Rama who was the wife of the king, with different types of words and the sorrow from her mind disappeared like the cloud of autumn holding slight moisture." 44.30

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


45. Citizens Follow Rama

[Large number of Ayodhya Citizens follow Rama. Seeing some old and feeble Brahmins following him, Rama, sita and Lakshmana get down from Chariot and walk like all of them. They all plead Rama to return.]

Those people who loved Rama, accompanied the great Rama, the votary of truth, when he went to dwell in the forest. 45.1

Though the king and his friends were sent back compulsorily, they did not return back from the chariot of Rama. 45.2

That most famous among men living in Ayodhya with all good qualities, become dear to the people like the full moon. 45.3

In spite of being begged to stay by the citizens, that son of Kakustha clan, for making the words of his father truthful, proceeded to the forest. 45.4

Seeing them with love as if he was drinking them and considering them all as his own sons, he told them. 45.5

"Oh my residents of Ayodhya, show the same love and respect that you show to me, to Bharatha and that will endear all of you to me." 45.6

"That Bharatha, who adds joy to Kaikeyi is one having auspicious character, would do those things enjoined by rules, to you, which is for your benefit." 45.7

"Though he is young, he is old in his intelligence and has soft and valorous nature and do not be afraid as he would make a very good king." 45.8

"Since he has all the qualities of a king, he is recognized as Yuvaraja and he should be recognized as a king by me and others." 45.9

"Please do not make the king sad after my going to the forest and that would only please me." 45.10

As and when the son of Dasaratha showed his attachment to Dharma, the people started loving him more progressively. 45.11

That poor Rama hiding his tears and along with Lakshmana got attracted towards the citizens who were weeping. 45.12

Those Brahmins who were old in age, wisdom and spirituality, shaking due to old age, from a distance spoke to him. 45.13

"Oh horses of good breed, you who are taking Rama, please turn back and do good service to your master Rama." 45.14

"The hearing power of all animals are good especially the horses and so having heard our request, please do turn back." 45.15

"Your master steeped in Dharma, who is pure soul, and who does auspicious penances should not be taken out of city to the forest." 45.16

When those extremely sorrowful and old Brahmins who were piteously crying like this, were seen by Rama, he immediately got down from the chariot. 45.17

Then he along with Sita and Lakshmana started walking towards the forest and he walked with his foot and that too taking slow steps. 45.18

Rama. who liked good virtues and who was compassionate, started walking on foot as he did not like the Brahmins to be left behind. 45.19

With a highly agitated mind on seeing Rama go to the forest, those Brahmins with great distress told him. 45.20

"The entire group of Brahmins along with their Brahmins, who are carrying the sacrificial fires on their shoulders are following you." 45.21

"Please see the umbrellas obtained by us while performing Vajapeya Sacrifice following you like the clouds in the end of rainy season." 45.22

"Since you are not having the ornamental Umbrella and are scorched by the sun, we would prevent those scorching rays by our umbrellas." 45.23

"Oh Child, normally our minds always follow the study of Vedas, but now for your sake, we are seeking for life in the forest." 45.24

"Vedas are our greatest wealth and reside in our mind and our wives protected by their matrimonial virtue would stay at home." 45.25

"Your mind being well set, you would not take a decision to return as you are on the side of Dharma and firmly located on path of Dharma." 45.26

"Oh Lord who is firm on doing your duty, we request with a bent head having hairs of the colour of the swan and soiled by dust of earth, you to return back." 45.27

"Many of the Brahmins who have arrived here, have commenced doing sacrifices and Oh child, their proper termination depends on your return." 45.28

"All these devoted beings, who are movable or immovable are begging you Rama, and you show your devotion to those devotees." 45.29

"The trees who were uplifted by the wind wanted to follow you but were prevented by their roots, which held them back and they seem to be weeping." 45.30

"The birds without any movement as well as not taking any food are sitting on the top of the trees and they are requesting you who is greatly compassionate to all beings, not to go." 45.31

"When all those Brahmins were crying like this, they saw Thamasa river, preventing the path of Rama." 45.32
Then Sumanthra unyoked the tired horses from the chariot, allowing them to roll and relax, bathed them in water and offered water for them to drink and released them for grazing not far away from the river. 45.33

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


46. Rama Proceeds

[Near the Thamasa river Rama, Lakshmana and Sita spend that night without taking food. Early morning, before the citizens wake up, they cross the Thamasa river and go further towards the forest.]

Then Rama after reaching the pretty banks of the Thamasa river, and looking at Sita as well as Lakshmana told like this. 46.1

"Oh Lakshmana, We have been sent to forest and the night has set in today and our forest life would be safe and you should not get worried about it." 46.2

"Please see the forest which appears as if it is crying and the wild birds as well as animals, have concealed themselves in their hide outs in the forest." 46.3

"Today, the city of Ayodhya, the capital of my father, with all its men and women gone away, without any doubt would be sad." 46.4

"Due to various good qualities that they posses, kings are loved by people. Oh man like tiger, like that people love me, Bharatha, Lakshmana and Shatrugna." 46.5

"I am sorrowing for our famous father and also the mothers, for by frequent crying they would become blind." 46.6

"Bharatha who is the soul of Dharma would console our father and mother with words confirming to Dharma, Artha and Kama." 46.7

"I again and again think about Bharatha, who is not evil minded and I do not have any sorrow about our father and mothers." 46.8

"Oh tiger among men, It is good that you are accompanying me as you would be able to assist me in protection of Sita." 46.9

"Oh son of Sumithra, I prefer to spent today night by drinking only water, though different things which can be eaten are available in the forest." 46.10

After saying this to Lakshmana, he told Sumanthra "Oh gentle one, please be careful about the horses." 46.11

Seeing the Sun was setting Sumanthra, tethered the horses, fed them with plentiful fodder and sat near them. 46.12

When the night came, after doing rituals of the dusk, Sumanthra made bed for Rama and Lakshmana. 46.13

Seeing the bed made of tree leaves on the banks of Thamasa river, Rama lay down on it along with Sita and Lakshmana. 46.14

Lakshmana seeing that his brother was asleep along with his wife, told about various good qualities of Rama to Sumanthra. 46.15
Till the sun rose next day, Lakshmana was talking about virtues of Rama to Sumanthra by keeping himself awake. 46.16

Rama had spent that night on the banks of Thamasa which was greatly crowded with cattle along with his subjects who stayed far away. 46.17

After waking up that greatly lustrous Rama, seeing his subjects, told his brother with auspicious qualities. 46.18

"Oh Lakshmana, son of Sumithra, these people due to great affection to us, even neglecting their homes are sleeping near the roots of the tree." 46.19

"These people have resolved to make us turn us back and they are prepared to give up anything including their life to make us turn back." 46.20

"While they continue to sleep, let us board the chariot quickly and without any fear, go our own way." 46.21

"These people who are the inhabitants of the town of Ikshuvaku clan who love me, are taking rest near the root of a tree and they should never do it again." 46.22

"A prince should remove the sufferings being undergone by the citizens which was brought by themselves and definitely should not cause sufferings to them." 46.23

Lakshmana then told to Rama who was great votary of Dharma "I am agreeable to that and let us board the chariot quickly." 46.24

That great Rama addressing Sumanthra told, "Oh lord, Yoke the chariot and let us go to the forest very quickly." 46.25

That Charioteer with speed yoked the chariot and harnessed the splendid horses and with palms in salute, informed Rama. 46.26

"Oh great one, I have yoked the Chariot, which is the best among the chariots. You along with Sita and Lakshmana board the chariot. May you be safe." 46.27

Rama got in to the chariot along with all the equipments and crossed the rapidly flowing Thamasa river along with its whirlpools. 46.28

He crossed the river without problems and travelled through the great road, without showing any fear and protecting others. 46.29

Rama with the aim of confusing the citizens told to the charioteer, "Oh charioteer, after mounting the chariot, proceed to the northern direction, for a while and again turn the chariot back speedily. Act with tact so that those citizens do not know which direction I have gone." 46.30-46.31

Hearing the words and after acting according to them and after bringing the chariot to Rama, he told. 46.32

The sons of Raghu clan along with Sita after seating in the well yoked chariot, and Sumanthra drove them through the forests of penance. 46.33

Then after seeing the auspiciousness of the proper direction of the journey, Rama along with the charioteer mounted and drove, the great chariot towards northern direction. 46.34

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

This is the end of the chapter Of the book Ayodhya of the holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the first epic.


47. Citizens Return to Ayodhya

[When the citizens wake up, not being able to find Rama they become sad. After some thought, they return to Ayodhya.]

After the night was over and the morning dawned, those citizens without Rama with them were stunned with benumbed minds and crushed with grief. 47.1

Drenched in tears of sorrow, seeing hither and thither and greatly sorrowful, they were not able to see even a trace of Rama. 47.2

Those sensitive men separated from the sagacious Rama, with a sorrow etched face, piteously talked about themselves, which evoked compassion. 47.3

"Oh what bad thing sleep is, which has robbed our senses and due to which we are not able to see broad chested and mighty armed Rama." 47.4

"How can the service to the great one go waste and how did Rama desert his devotees and gone, on a travel?" 47.5

"He used to take care of us like his own children and how did such Rama desert us and go to the forest?" 47.6

"We will all die here itself and go to the great journey of the world of death, for without Rama what is the meaning of life." 47.7

"There are many big dry logs of wood lying here and let us all light them and die entering in to the fire." 47.8

"What shall we say to other people after conducting the mighty armed Rama who is free from all malice to the forest? How can we say this?" 47.9

"When we return greatly dejected to the city, seeing us without Rama, the women, children and old people would be robbed of their joy?" 47.10

"Having left the city with the valiant and self controlled Rama, how can we go to the city again after abandoning him?" 47.11

After saying several such words, those people with their hands lifted above wailed and cried like a cow separated from its calf. 47.12

Again they followed the tracks of the chariot for some time and they were overcome with great sorrow, when they were not able to track it. 47.13

Not able to track the path of the chariot, those good people returned "What is this? What we should do as we have been deceived by fate?" 47.14

With a extremely sorrowing mind, they returned to city by the way they had come and Ayodhya was completely filled with grieving people. 47.15

After seeing their cities again, they became ones with a sorrowing mind and due to great sorrow, they cried again and again. 47.16

The city of Rama, completely lost its luster, like the depths of river from which Garuda took away the serpents. 47.17

Overcome with grief, they saw it without joy, like a sky without moon and ocean without any water. 47.18

They entered their wealthy mansions with sorrow greater than their distress and those people affected by grief could not even recognize their own people. 47.19

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


48. Citizens Lament

[When the citizens return to their homes, their wives chide them for leaving Rama all alone. They long to be with Rama, who was unjustly banished by Kaikeyi.]

All of those good people of the town who had gone with Rama and who had returned back looked like they were afflicted by disease, had their eyes filled with tears, were greatly affected by sorrow and were desiring death, and looked as if their soul is leaving their body. 48.1-48.2

Each of them after reaching their own homes, were surrounded by their wife and sons, covered their faces and shed tears. 48.3

They were not happy nor were delighted, the merchants did not do trade, the market places were not graceful and house holders did not cook food. 48.4

Having lost Rama, they were not pleased in acquiring great wealth and mother getting her first son did not rejoice. 48.5

In each house when the husband came back, they were reproached by their sad crying wives with words which hurt them like a goad hurts an elephant. 48.6

For those who are not able to see Rama, what is the use of their house, what is the use of their wives, what is the use of wealth and what is the use of sons and all pleasures? 48.7

"There is only one good person in this world and that is Lakshmana who went with Sita and Rama in to the forest and does service to them." 48.8

"The pure waters in which Rama bathes himself from rivers, lotus filled tanks, and lakes are indeed greatly blessed." 48.9

"The luster of the son of Kakustha clan would be increased by forests with pretty trees, rivers, big lakes, peaks and mountains." 48.10

"Whether Rama visits a forest or a mountain, he would be received as dear guests and they would not fail extend a suitable hospitality." 48.11

"Various type of flowering trees, each having lot of flower bunches with honey bees circling them, would be seen by Rama." 48.12

"As and when Rama visits, even in an off season, the trees will present Rama with excellent fruits and flowers out of sympathy for Rama." 48.13

"The mountains will make flow pure water and would show him very picturesque waterfalls." 48.14

"The trees growing on the top of the peaks will enchant Rama and there would be no cause of failure wherever Rama goes." 48.15

"That greatly valorous and strong son of Dasaratha has gone away and we should follow him to a long distance." 48.16

"Even the shadow of the feet of that great master makes us happy, as that Lord is the people's ultimate refuge." 48.17

The greatly distressed wives of the citizens told them, "we would serve Sita and you, please look after Rama." 48.18

"In the forest Rama would look after your welfare and Sita would look after the welfare of the ladies." 48.19

"This place is disagreeable with people choked with great grief and who would be pleased here to live with a shattered mind." 48.20

"If under Kaikeyi, this country becomes an orphan bereft of Vedas, living here would be meaningless, what of our sons and our wealth?" 48.21

"For the sake of wealth she gave up her husband and will that disgrace to her race spare anyone else." 48.22

"We swear that we and our sons will not live as servants of Kaikeyi, as long as she is alive." 48.23

"That Characterless person has banished the son of the king and how can we get pleasure out of this life without Dharma under her who has bad behaviour." 48.24

"This entire kingdom is ruined without a lord to defend it and all actions of Kaikeyi would lead only to destruction." 48.25

"With Rama having been banished our king would not live long and it is clear that we will live with great sorrow after his death." 48.26

"Without blessed deeds and rushing towards all that is bad, it is better that you drink poison or either, we follow Rama or go to a place where we are not heard of." 48.27

"Rama, Sita and Lakshmana have been exiled for false reasons and all of us have been delivered to Bharatha like the animals that are delivered to the butcher." 48.28

"Rama, the elder brother of Lakshmana has a face like full moon, is black in colour, has hidden collar bones, has long hands touching his thighs and has eyes like the lotus flower. He addresses others first, is sweet, votary of truth, very strong, is soft natured and to all others appears like a moon. He is a tiger among men, is as powerful as an elephant in rut and a great charioteer and while moving about would add luster to the forest." 48.29-48.31

These were the wailings of the women of the city and they wept due to great sorrow like the death is approaching them. 48.32

Like that when the women were crying about Rama in their houses, the sun had set and the night had fallen. 48.33

With fires of sacrifices not burning and with divine stories not being related, that town appeared by completely smeared by darkness." 48.34

With markets of traders being closed, without joy, without support, the city of Ayodhya looked like a sky without stars. 48.35

The ladies were extremely sad for the sake of Rama and felt as if their sons or brothers have been banished and since to them Rama was much more than their sons, they lamented and wept. 48.36

With stoppage of singing, celebrations, dance and music, with no joy present, with shops not displaying their ware, that city of Ayodhya looked like an ocean with diminished waters. 48.37

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


49. Rama Travels Further

[They travelled at great speed and crossed many rivers. Rama was sorry to leave his town.]

Remembering the command of his father. that tiger among men, covered a long distance in the remnant of the night. 49.1

While he was travelling thus the night ended auspiciously and after worshipping the auspicious dawn, he reached the border of his country. 49.2

After the of the villages where land was being ploughed he reached the forest in flowering, while travelling with great speed on those great horses, though it seemed that they were travelling slowly to him. He also heard the talk among various people in the villages. 49.3

"Alas, what a pity the king Dasaratha was enslaved by passion, that wicked Kaikeyi has been completely tied by her sins without an end. It is that cruel, indecent Kaikeyi who is capable of doing harmful acts, who banished this prince, who is full of compassion, wedded to Dharma and one who has won over his senses and made him live in the forest." 49.4-49.6

"How will the great fortunate daughter of Janaka who is used to pleasures undergo and tolerate these sorrows now?" 49.7

"Alas, that the king Dasaratha is banishing his spotless and dear Rama without any love and abandoning him." 49.8

There were the words of the people of villages which was heard by Rama and listening to them he crossed the boundaries of Kosala kingdom. 49.9

There after he crossed the river Vedasruthi, in which auspicious waters were flowing and travelled towards the southern direction towards the hermitage of Agasthya. 49.10

Then after travelling for a long time he reached the Gomati river, which had cool waters, with its marshy areas abounding with cows and which flowed in to the ocean. 49.11

After crossing river Gomati along with swift moving horses, he crossed the river Syandhika, which echoed the sounds of swans and peacocks. 49.12

Then Rama Showed to Sita the vast tracts of the kingdom, which Manu presented to the Ikshuvaku clan. 49.13

Then he with great affection called in a sweet voice resembling a swan "Oh charioteer" and started talking to him. 49.14

"When will I come back to see my father and father and also see the river Sarayu and its forest filled with flowers and go for hunting there?" 49.15

"The royal sages deem that this hunting is an incomparable pleasure in the forests near Sarayu, though I am not interested in it." 49.16

"The royal sages do hunt in the forests for sport and it is also desired by expert archers in proper seasons." 49.17

Telling these words to the charioteer in sweet words and while he was further thinking, their journey continued with great speed. 49.18

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


50. Rama Meets Guha

[After crossing through several villages, they leave the Kosala kingdom and reach the banks of the pretty and auspicious river Ganga. There Rama is met by his friend Guha, the King of Sringiberipura. Guha offers them food and bed. Rama refuses and sleeps on bed of grass. Lakshmana keeps awake and guards him.]

The elder brother of Rama crossed the very broad and very pretty Kosala kingdom, and that great one facing Ayodhya and saluting it told. 50.1

"I am taking leave of the great city protected by Kakustha clan and I know that the gods who live there are protecting it also." 50.2

"Oh king of the world, after repaying the debt of life in the forest, I shall see you again along with my father and mother." 50.3

That one with eyes reddened like the lotus lifted up his right hand and with face full of tears addressed the poor people of the village. 50.4

"You have shown already the compassion and kindness to me. It is sinful to prolong this sorrow and please go back and discharge your duties." 50.5

They saluted that great soul and went around him and then crying out loudly they stood here and there. 50.6

They who cried were not getting satisfied on seeing Rama and at the night fall, he went away and disappeared from their eyes. 50.7

That Kosala kingdom was blessed with grain and wealth, full of auspicious people who were charitable, was free from fear of any kind, full of pretty temples, full of gardens for sports as well as mango orchards, full of tanks filled with water, full of contented and well nourished people, being served by very good cattle, full of good looking kings and full of the sound of recitation of Vedas. The chariot moved away from that great kingdom. 50.8-50.10

Rama, endowed with fortitude, travelled through the pleasant and prosperous kingdom, full of very pretty gardens which was fit to be enjoyed by kings. 50.11

He then saw the holy and pretty river Ganga, with three splits full of sacred waters and green moss here and there and which was worshipped by sages. 50.12

Decorated by the divine hermitages situated nearby, the delighted Apsara maidens were playing in the auspicious, deep and broad waters. 50.13

It was shining with the presence of devas, Dhanavas, Gandharwas and Kinnaras and that auspicious one [river] was also served by the wives of several Gandharwas. 50.14

That river which was flowing in the sky for the sake of devas, it had hundreds of sporting places and hundreds of pleasure gardens for the devas and was famous as the deva Padmini 50.15

Its flow created loud laughter like sound and also at some places it flowed creating pure smile like foam and in some other places its flow was straight like the braids of the maiden along with shining whirlpools. 50.16

In some places it was deep and silent, at some other places, flowing speedily with sound. It made majestic regal sounds in some places and with horrible fearsome sound in other places. 50.17

The waters in which several deva groups took bath shined like pure blue lotus flowers. Vast sand hills covered the river in some places and in some others, it was spread with white sand. 50.18

The sound of swans and storks echoed together with the cooing calls of Chakravaka birds. Several birds inflamed with passion surrounded that flawless one. 50.19

The trees on the banks of Ganga made it appear as if they have garlanded her. In some places the river was covered with fully open water lilies and in some other places it was covered with crowds of lotus flowers. 50.20

In some places it was decorated by water lilies opening at night as well as their half open buds and it some places it looked as if intoxicated by the heaps of pollen fallen from flowers. 50.21

With all its impurities removed, it looked like a pure gem. The repeated sound of trumpeting of elephants of directions, intoxicated elephants, forest elephants, divine elephants and those fit to carry gods sounded and resounded in the forests as well as banks of the river. 50.22

She looked like a woman who has consciously decorated herself with fruits, flowers tender sprouts, flowering shrubs and birds which surrounded the river side. Small whales, crocodiles and serpents also served her. 50.23-50.24

That divine sinless river which destroys sins flowed from the feet of Lord Vishnu and due to the luster of the descendents of king Sagara, was caught in the matted hair of Lord Shiva and latter issued out from there echoing with the sound made by Krouncha birds as well as herons reached the ocean. Rama reached Ganga in a place called Sringiberapuram. 50.25-50.26

Seeing the river blended with tumultuous waves and whirlpools, the great Rama told Sumanthra, "Oh charioteer we would spend the night here itself." 50.27

"Oh Charioteer, not far from here there is a very tall Ingudhi tree [Indian almond], having many flowers and budding leaves and we shall stay there." 50.28

"I am seeing a very great divine river, with water which is fit to be worshipped by devas, dhanavas, Gandharwas, men, animals as well as birds." 50.29

Lakshmana and Sumanthra agreed with Rama and turned the horses towards the Ingudhi tree and reached it. 50.30

The son of Ikshuvaku clan, Rama reached near the pretty tree, with his wife as well as Lakshmana and then got down from the Chariot. 50.31

Sumanthra also got down and unyoked the best of the horses and stood with reverence before Rama who has reached below the tree. 50.32

There lived a king of the hunter tribe known as Guha, who was very strong and famous and who was the soul like friend of Rama. 50.33

Hearing that the tiger among men Rama has arrived in his region, he surrounded by old people, his ministers and people of his clan reached there to receive him. 50.34

Seeing the king of hunters coming at a distance, Rama along with Lakshmana went forwards to receive Guha. 50.35

With great anguish Guha hugged Rama and said, "Oh Rama, you can consider this city as your Ayodhya. What can I do for you now? Oh great one, who can obtain a great guest like you?" 50.36

Thereafter he brought various kinds of good quality eatables like rice as well as various drinks and spoke them as follows. 50.37

"Oh mighty one, welcome to you. This entire land is yours. You are the king and we are your servants and you please rule this kingdom happily." 50.38

"Foods suitable for biting, chewing, drinking and fit for licking, excellent beds for your sleeping and fodder for your horses, all await you." 50.39

To Guha who told like this, Rama replied, "By Your showing friendliness by coming on foot to meet us, we feel as if we have been worshipped and are greatly pleased." 50.40-50.41

Holding tightly his strong hands and pressing them together, Rama further told him, "I have seen you Guha without any sickness and along with your relations. Is everything fine with you, your country, your friend and your wealth." 50.42

"All those things which you have given with great love, has to be returned to you as I am unable to accept them." 50.43

"As I have been initiated in Dharma of an ascetic, I have to only wear cloths made of bark and grass and eat only fruits and roots wander in the forest." 50.44

"I would not ask anything more than the fodder for the horses from anyone and if you can provide that I would worship you." 50.45

"These horses are very much liked by my father Dasaratha and if they are well fed, I would feel you have worshipped me." 50.46

Guha immediately ordered his people to give plenty of water and forage to these horses quickly." 50.47

After that wearing upper cloth made of grass, Rama performed ritual of dusk and drank only water, which was brought by Lakshmana. 50.48

After Lakshmana washed their feet, Rama and his wife laid down to sleep on the ground and Lakshmana returned to a place of rest below a tree. 50.49

Guha talked along with Sumanthra and Lakshmana and kept guard over Rama keeping himself awake along with them. 50.50

To Rama, who had never experienced troubles because he was accustomed to pleasures and who was lying on the ground, the night appeared to be very long. 50.51

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


51. Lakshmana Shares Sorrow with Guha

[Lakshmana keeps awake to guard Rama. When Guha offers him to do that he refuses that offer and shares his sorrow with Guha.]

Seeing Lakshmana keeping awake for the sake of his brother, Guha who was greatly grieved told the following. 51.1

"Oh son, this comfortable bed has been arranged for your sake. Oh Prince take rest on that comfortably." 51.2

"All people are accustomed to troubles and since you are accustomed to comforts, so for guarding the safety of the son of Kakushta clan, we will keep awake." 51.3

"I am telling you that Rama is dearer to me than all other persons of the world and I am taking an oath on oath itself that this true." 51.4

"I am desiring for great fame, attainment of Dharma and realization of large wealth, only though the grace of Rama." 51.5

"I along with my clan would protect my dear friend Rama along with Sita, who are resting, from every one with a bow in my hand." 51.6

"Due to the fact that I always am wandering in this forest, there is nothing that is not known to me there and I would be able to even control an army with four divisions." 51.7

Then Lakshmana addressing Guha told, "Oh Blemish less Guha, as long as all of us are protected by you with Dharma, we need not be afraid of anything." 51.8

"How can I get sleep or enjoy pleasures of the world, when Rama along with Sita is sleeping on the ground?" 51.9

"See that He who cannot be faced in war by devas and asuras, is sleeping comfortably on the blades of grass." 51.10

"This favourite son of Dasaratha who was obtained by severe penances involving Manthras and various other efforts, is very similar to him in all qualities and seeing him reduced to the state of sainthood, the king would not be alive for long. And this earth would become a widow very soon." 51.11-51.12

"The ladies who were with great sound wailing their heart out, would have been tired and that may be the reason why no sound is heard from the king's palace." 51.13

"The king, Kausalya as well as my mother, if they are still alive, may not last for this night." 51.14

"Thinking of Shatrugna, my mother may continue to live, but Kausalya due to parting of her son may not live further." 51.15

"Filled with affectionate people, who like to lead a life of joy, that city due to the sorrow of death of the king will perish." 51.16
"How can the king Dasaratha continue to hold his soul in his body, without being able to see his favourite eldest son?" 51.17

"After the death of the king, Kausalya will die and after that my mother also will die." 51.18

"Whatever has happened has already happened and my father without fulfilling his desire to consecrate Rama as the king would die." 51.19

"Those who have accomplished their purpose, at the Appropriate time would conduct the funeral rites of the king lying in state." 51.20

"Along with lovely junctions of roads, undivided great roads, blessed with gardens and palaces, shining with courtesans, crowded with horses and chariots, echoing with sound of trumpets, filled with all sort of auspiciousness, with well-nourished contented people, having many gardens for recreations, with community fairs and festivals, the capital of my father would continue to exist happily. 51.21-51.23

"Now Dasaratha is living but after we return from our sojourn in the forest, will we be able to see that great one?" 51.24

"After fulfilling our promise, if we return in good health, would we be able to enter the city of Ayodhya?" 51.25

When the great prince who was suffering due to sorrow was wailing and talking this way, the night passed away. 51.26

When the prince who was interested in the welfare of the people was telling the truth out of his regard for elders, Guha shed tears like the elephant having fever out of great sorrow. 51.27

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


52. Rama Takes Leave of Sumanthra and Guha

[When Rama requests Sumanthra to go back, he becomes sad and requests Rama to permit him to stay in the forest itself. Rama consoles Sumanthra and sends him back. Then using the milk of banyan tree brought by Guha, Rama and Lakshmana mat their hair and after bidding farewell to Guha, proceed to the forest.]

After the night was passed, in the morning, the famous and broad chested Rama told Lakshmana who has all auspicious characters. 52.1

"The Goddess night has gone out and it is time for the sun rise and very black and dark Cuckoo is singing beautifully." 52.2

"In the forest we are hearing the screaming sounds of peacock and now we have to cross the peaceful Ganges which is flowing towards the ocean." 52.3

"Hearing the words of Rama, that Sumithra's son who made his friends happy called Guha as well as Sumanthra and stood in front of his brother." 52.4

"That Guha obeying the words of Rama quickly summoned his ministers and told them." 52.5

"Please get a pretty, strong, auspicious and swift boat which can help us to cross the river here quickly." 52.6

His great ministers responding to the order of Guha swiftly brought a boat to cross the river. 52.7

With folded hand in salutation Guha told Rama, "Here is a boat that you requested. What else can I do for you?" 52.8

"Oh tiger among men, who is like the son of devas, please get in to the boat to cross the river that is going towards the ocean." 52.9

Then the greatly lustrous Rama told to Guha, "You have carried out the work that was desired by me" and then he got in to the boat. 52.10

Then Rama and Lakshmana, wearing their armour and carrying shields, swords and bows along with Sita went towards Ganga. 52.11

Then that charioteer with folded hands in salutation and with great humbleness asked Rama, who is the follower of Dharma, "What do you want me to do?" 52.12

Then Rama told that charioteer Sumanthra, touching him affectionately with his right hand "Oh Sumanthra, you go back from here quickly, and then look after the king carefully." 52.13

"You have brought me in your chariot this far and from now on I will go to the forest on foot." 52.14

When the charioteer Sumanthra was asked to go back, he became emotional and told the tiger among men belonging to the Ikshuvaku family. 52.15

"It is natural for you to start residing in the forest along with your brother and wife, but no one in this world can do anything to overcome this difficulty." 52.16

"Oh Rama, this sorrow has happened to you who is a Brahmachari [one who walks in the path of Brahman], who knows Vedas well and who is compassionate and pure and so I think there is no use of possessing these qualities." 52.17

"You along with your brother as well as Sita would live in the forest and would acquire a good status here and win over the three worlds." 52.18

"Due to the sinful acts of Kaikeyi, Oh Rama, we are destroyed and we have also lost you and become partners with grief." 52.19

That Charioteer Sumanthra after telling like this and realizing in his mind became extremely sad and cried loudly. 52.20

After shedding tears like this that charioteer drank a sip of water similar to water oblation and Rama again and again told the Charioteer. 52.21

"There is no other friend like you to the clan of Ikshuvaku. Please make king Dasaratha not to think about me and becoming sad." 52.22

"The king besides being old also has his mind filled with sorrow and is also full of the propensity to love and I am telling this to you because of that." 52.23

"That great king orders several small things to make Kaikeyi his wife to be happy." 52.24

"Whatever is in the mind of the king, he would take all efforts to rule the country and this is how a king rules his country." 52.25

"Oh Sumanthra, please carry out all the tasks in such a way that the king does not became sad or distressed. Please carry out tasks like that" 52.26

"The king has not seen sorrow and he is an aged gentleman, who has control over his senses. Please tell him on my behalf with salutations." 52.27

"Having been banished from Ayodhya to live in a forest, I am not sad and also Sita and Lakshmana are not sad about it." 52.28

"As soon as the fourteen years is complete, me, Lakshmana as well as Sita would see you again and again." 52.29

"Oh Sumanthra, again and again tell this to king Dasaratha as well as to my mothers and also to other ladies as well as Kaikeyi. Tell about my health as well as that of Sita's and Lakshmana's and our salutations to her feet, to Kausalya." 52.30-52.31

"Request the king to get back Bharatha speedily and on his arrival as per the desire of the king, he can be made the king." 52.32

"Once he embraces Bharatha and makes him the Yuvaraja, his sorrow that was caused by sending us away will not pain him much." 52.33

"Tell Bharatha also that he should treat all his mothers in the same way, without any difference, just like the way he treats the king." 52.34

"You should treat my mother Kausalya in the same manner that you would treat Kaikeyi and Sumithra." 52.35

"You would become the Yuvaraja as per the loving desire of our father and you would provide pleasure in both worlds to him." 52.36

When Rama wanted to send him back, Sumanthra became extremely sad and after hearing all the loving words of Rama, he told. 52.37

"Out of friendship and courtesy as well as without any fear, I am telling you these words like a devotee. I hope you will excuse and pardon me." 52.38

"How can I go back to the city after leaving you here, for I will feel your absence like a father feels the absence of his son?" 52.39

"The people who have seen this Chariot with Rama, would become broken hearted when they see this chariot without Rama." 52.40

"The city would be pitiable when they see this empty chariot with only charioteer and would feel like seeing their own army entering the city after being defeated." 52.41

"When they know that you who stay in front of the heart of the people, is staying far-far away. thinking of you the people would stop taking food." 52.42

"Having seen you, when they realize that you have gone away, their mind would be completely filled with sorrow and agony." 52.43

'The people seeing the empty chariot would wail hundred times more than what they did, when they saw you go." 52.44

"What should I tell the god like lady" Shall I tell her that I have left your son at his uncle's house and console her?" 52.45

"I cannot tell a lie like that to her and how will I be able to say the very unpleasant truth?" 52.46

"I used to carry your relatives in this chariot under your orders, and I am not sure these great horses would draw this chariot without you in it." 52.47

"Oh sinless one, I am not in a position to go to Ayodhya without you and so please order me to accompany you during your life in the forest." 52.48

"If you do not consent for my begging request, as soon as you forsake me, I shall enter the fire along with this chariot." 52.49

"By staying the forest with you, I would chase all those animals that create obstacles during your penance and drive them out." 52.50

"You gave me by great pleasure by allowing me to drive the chariot to bring you here and I desire that you permit me further to happily live in the forest with you." 52.51

"Be pleased to permit me to stay in the forest in your neighborhood and I desire to hear, you to say the pleasing words "Stay with me." 52.52

"Oh valorous one, if these horses are able to serve you, while you are in forest, they would do that and attain divine salvation." 52.53

"I would live in the forest and do service to you with a bent head and I would altogether relinquish Ayodhya as well as the world of Gods." 52.54

"Like a person who does evil deeds cannot enter the capital of Indra, I would not be able to enter Ayodhya without you." 52.55

"I have dream in my mind to take you back in this chariot to Ayodhya, at the end of the period of your stay in forest." 52.56

"If I accompany to you to the forest the fourteen years would pass like a second, otherwise it will appear to be one hundred years." 52.57

"Oh Rama who loves his servants, Oh my master's son, I stand on your path as your devotee and as your servant and so please do not forsake me." 52.58

After being requested pitiably again and again, Rama who was partial to his attendants told Sumanthra like this. 52.59

"Oh Sumanthra who likes his master, I know about your great devotion, please hear as to why I am sending back to Ayodhya." 52.60

"When my younger mother Kaikeyi sees you after you return to Ayodhya, then only she will believe that I have truly gone to the forest." 52.61

"If she is happy and convinced that I have gone to the forest, she will not have any doubt about the Dharma of king And would believe that he is not a liar." 52.62

"It is my first requirement that my younger mother is prosperous in the kingdom ruled by her son Bharatha." 52.63

"For my sake, return back to the city along with the chariot and deliver messages to all as instructed by me." 52.64

After telling these words to the Charioteer, he consoled him again and again and Rama told the following manly and reasonable words. 52.65

"This forest populated by people is not fit for my living as I have to live in a hermitage and do prescribed acts according to rules." 52.66

"I would now wear the dress of an ascetic, aimed at the welfare of my father, Sita and Lakshmana and I am going to make hair matted by use of the milk of Banyan tree." 52.67

Guha speedily fetched the milk of the banyan tree and gave it to Rama, who matted his hair as well as that of Lakshmana with it. 52.68

The tigers of men, who had long arms, twisted and matted their hair and then put on the robes of tree bark. With the crown of their matted hair, the brothers Rama and Lakshmana resembled sages and shined with great luster. 52.69-52.70

Rama along with Lakshmana adopting the rules as laid by the Vaikhasana Agama took religious vows and then addressed Guha. 52.71

"Oh Guha, you must be greatly alert about the common people, the fort, the army as well as the treasury. The elders say that it is only with great difficulty that the country can be protected." 52.72

Then after giving leave to Guha, that son of Ikshuvaku clan, went along with Lakshmana and Sita. 52.73

The son of the Ikshuvaku clan seeing the boat on the banks of the river Ganga with its very swiftly flowing waters told Lakshmana. 52.74

"Oh tiger among men, please get in to the boat slowly and then holding the beam help Sita, who is a sensitive one to ascend it." 52.75

The self respecting Lakshmana, hearing the command of his brother, helped Sita get in to the boat and then he himself got in to it, without acting contrary to his brother's wishes. 52.76

Then the greatly lustrous Rama who was the elder brother of Lakshmana ascended the boat and then the king of Nishadas ordered his clan's people to row the boat. 52.77

The greatly lustrous Rama, after getting in to the boat chanted Manthras suitable for Brahmins and Kshatriyas for the safety of his journey." 52.78

The greatly lustrous Rama along with as per shastras, with great pleasure, did Aachamanam [inner cleansing] with the waters of river Ganges and saluted the river and Lakshmana also did the same. 52.79

Rama then permitted, Sumanthra, his army as well as Guha to go and then having seated gave directions to the boat man. 52.80

Then that boat driven well by the oarsmen swiftly and safely crossed the river, propelled by strong oars. 52.81

When the boat reached the middle of Bhagirathi river, the blameless Sita, with hands folded in salute told. 52.82

"The son of the great king Dasaratha would fulfill the orders of his father under your protection. After completing fourteen years of life in the forest, he would come back along with me and his brother. Oh pretty Goddess, after coming back safely, and after fulfilling my desires, I shall worship you." 52.83-52.85

"Oh Goddess, you have three portions and you flow through the land of Brahma and in this world you appear as the wife of the ocean." 52.86

"Oh Goddess, Oh pretty one, I praise and salute you. After returning to the city safely with the tiger among men, I would offer you one hundred thousand cows, cloths as well as very delicious food to the Brahmins, with an intention of pleasing you." 52.87-52.88

"Oh Goddess, after I return and get purified, I would offer you one thousand pots of Sura and food in the form of meat and satisfy you." 52.89

"I would also please the various Gods who live on your banks and also worship all the temples and sacred waters there." 52.90

"Oh Goddess, Oh spot less one, please make me along with the great warrior Rama and his brother enter Ayodhya after living in the forest." 52.91

When Sita was thus conversing the blemish less Ganga, they all speedily reached the southern bank of the river. 52.92

When the boat reached the other shore, that great man Rama got out of it, and proceeded further along with Sita and his brother. 52.93

Then the very strong one told Lakshmana, who increases the happiness of Sumithra., "We have to be ready for protection, whether the place is populated or lonely." 52.94

"In this lonely forest, which we are not familiar, protection needs to be given to Sita and so Oh Lakshmana, go in the front and Sita would follow you." 52.95

"Protecting you and Sita, I would walk behind you both and we would protect each other as it is the duty of valorous men." 52.96

"From now on, it would not be possible to correct any action which goes out of our hands and also Sita would now on realize the sorrow of forest life." 52.97

"We will now enter the forest which is devoid of people, farms and gardens, which is difficult with its deep pits." 52.98

Hearing these words, Lakshmana started walking in the front and after wards went Sita, who was followed by Rama of the Raghu clan. 52.99

Sumanthra with great sorrow was continuously watching Rama, till he reached the other side of the river and when he could not see him due to long distance, he turned away his gaze and shed tears. 52.100

That great Rama, who bestowed boons and who had a luster like a king, after having crossed the big river Ganga, reached the highly prosperous country of Vathsa inhabited by happy people. 52.101

Being very hungry they killed four animals viz a boar, a white antelope, spotted deer and a great deer and quickly ate the meat of these animals and by evening reached below a tree to take rest. 52.102

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


53. Rama Laments about Kaikeyi

[Rama finds the behaviour of Kaikeyi to be cruel. He is worried about the safety of his mother Kausalya. Lakshmana consoles him.]

After reaching near the foot of the Rama did ablations of the dusk and that handsome great man spoke like this to Lakshmana. 53.1

"We are going to spend the first night in a place where people are not there as Sumanthra has gone away. There is no need to worry about it." 53.2

"Oh Lakshmana, from now on we have to be vigilant and awake at night, for the safety/welfare of Sita depends on both of us." 53.3

"Oh son of Sumithra, we have to spend today night somehow and we will lie down on some material which we ourselves can collect." 53.4

That great one who deserved a great bed lay down on the ground and spoke to Lakshmana these good and memorable words. 53.5

"Oh Lakshmana, by this time The king would have slept with sorrow and Kaikeyi, whose desires have been fulfilled would have become happy." 53.6

"I hope that after the arrival of Bharatha, Kaikeyi would not take away the life of the king, for the sake of getting the kingdom." 53.7

"That old one who is like an orphan, has been separated from me and what can the soul of passion do as he has come under the control of Kaikeyi." 53.8

"Thinking about the king's confusion of mind, I feel that passion is stronger than Dharma or wealth." 53.9

"Oh my dear Lakshmana, Will even an ignorant man for the sake of a woman abandon his son, who has been following his will and pleasure?" 53.10

"Alas the son of Kaikeyi, Bharatha along with his wife would lead a happy and pleasant life, like an emperor of the Kosala kingdom?" 53.11

"With the king becoming very old and me having come to the forest, He would become only chief of that kingdom." 53.12

"A king who abandons Dharma and Artha and pursues only passion, will reach a state like King Dasaratha very quickly." 53.13

"Oh humble one, I consider Kaikeyi has come in to our home, for destruction of Dasaratha, my banishment and for making Bharatha as the king." 53.14

"Will Kaikeyi attracted by the exuberance of her prosperity, now torment Kausalya and Sumithra, because of me?" 53.15

"Oh Lakshmana because of me, mother Sumithra should not experience any sorrow and so in the morning you go back to Ayodhya." 53.16

"I alone would go to Dandaka forest along with Sita and you would be the protector of orphan like Kausalya." 53.17

"Kaikeyi who does heinous deeds out of hatred may follow unjust means to trouble my mother and so you may entrust the upkeep of my mother to Bharatha, who is a follower of Dharma." 53.18

"Oh son of Sumithra, in which of her previous births did my mother separate a mother from her son? I feel this has occurred because of that." 53.19

"Kausalya nurtured me for a long time with great difficulty and it this time when she can get fruits from me, she is separated from me alas?" 53.20

"Oh son of Sumithra, I have given great pain to my mother and let no mother give birth to a son like me." 53.21

Oh Lakshmana, on hearing about my banishment, my mother's Myna bird would say to the parrot, "Oh parrot, bite the foot of the enemy." And I think my mother would be more pleased with that Myna. 53.22

"Oh killer of enemies, That soul of sorrow, who has very less of luck could not be helped by her son and she has no sons except me." 53.23

"My less fortunate mother after parting from me would have become extremely sad and has fallen down in the sea of sorrow." 53.24

"Oh Lakshmana, if I get angry, all by myself with my arrows I could have exterminated Ayodhya and even the world, but this valour is without any reason now." 53.25

"Oh spotless one, Oh Lakshmana, at this time I am not getting crowned to avoid unrighteous conduct as well as to ensure a place in the other world." 53.26

In that desolate forest, Rama did many such pitiable lamentations and with a face full of tears, he sat silently. 53.27

That Lakshmana then consoled Rama who was lamenting and Rama became like a fire which was put out or a ocean without waves. 53.28

"Oh foremost among the people who use weapons, It is certain that the city of Ayodhya has lost its luster after your departure and looks like a night without moon." 53.29

"Oh Rama, Oh best among men, this type of lamentation from you is dangerous and Sita and me are becoming sad because of that." 53.30

Oh Rama neither Sita and for that matter me, cannot keep alive even for a short time without you, like a fish cannot survive without water." 53.31

"Oh tormentor of enemies, without you being near me, I do not wish to see even Dasaratha, Sumithra, Shatrugna and even heaven." 53.32

After that those two lovers of Dharma, who were seated comfortably. having seen the bed made under the tree, not far away from there, took rest. 53.33

After listening to the excellent words told by Lakshmana, with great respect, permitted him to live with dharma, with him till the total long duration of forest life is over. 53.34

After that in that lonely forest those strong sons of the Raghu clan lived in that slope of mountains like lions, without feeling either afraid or nervous. 53.35

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


54. Rama at Bharadwaja's Hermitage

[After walking further by evening they reach Prayaga, where they visit sage Bharadwaja in his hermitage. The sage advises them to stay in Chithrakuta Mountains.]

Those people spent a peaceful night under the tree and after the sun had raised set out from that region. 54.1

Those people with great fame, entered the very deep forest and seeing various parts of the land which they have not seen before and further viewing mind bewitching land areas further travelled with the intention of reaching the confluence of Bhagirathi [Ganga] and river Yamuna. 54.2-54.3

They went safely seeing various types of plants and when the day came to an end Rama told Lakshmana. 54.4

"Oh Lakshmana, see the matchless smoke near Prayaga, appearing like a flag of the fire God indicating that, there is a sage nearby." 54.5

"Now it is certain that we have reached the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna as sound of water dashing against water is being heard." 54.6

"Here we see logs of wood, which have been cut by forest living people who have cut it for their living and we also see the hermitage of Bharadwaja surrounded by various types of trees." 54.7

Those archers walking at a comfortable pace reached the hermitage of saint Bharadwaja near the confluence of Yamuna and Ganga when the sun was about to set. 54.8

When Rama was about to reach the hermitage, the animals and birds were frightened by their movement and walking on the path for a little time they reached the place of Bharadwaja. 54.9

Then those two valorous ones accompanied by Sita reached the hermitage and waited at a distance desirous of meeting the sage. 54.10

Rama entered and saw the great sage surrounded by his disciples. Having obtained the spiritual insight, that great one was practicing rigid penances and meditation with a concentrated mind and was performing Agnihothra [fire ritual]. Rama, Lakshmana and Sita after saluting him introduced themselves. 54.11-54.12

After that elder brother of Rama introduced himself he told the sage "Oh great sage we are Rama and Lakshmana, the sons of Dasaratha." 54.13

"This Vaidehi, who is the auspicious daughter of Janaka is my wife. That irreproachable one has followed me in to this desolate forest of penance." 54.14

"When my father banished me, this dear brother of mine who is the son of Sumithra, with great determination accompanied me to this forest." 54.15

"Oh God like person, as sent by father, we will enter this forest of penance, will practice Dharma and live on collected roots and fruits." 54.16

Hearing the words of the sagacious son of a king, the sage brought water to wash his feet and water to drink to that soul of Dharma. 54.17

That sage who practiced penance offered them several types of food and drinks prepared from the fruits as well as roots and also arranged for a resting place to them. 54.18

Surrounded by animals, birds as well as sages, after welcoming Rama with proper rituals that sage spoke. 54.19

That sage Bharadwaja after Rama received all his hospitality, gave him seat, uttered suitable words of welcome and said. 54.20

"Oh prince of Kakustha clan, after a long time you have arrived here and I am able to see you now. I also heard about your being banished without any reason." 54.21

"This place in the confluence of great rivers is a solitary region. You can comfortably stay at this divine, pretty place." 54.22

Rama, who is interested in the welfare of all, after hearing these words of Bharadwaja replied in an auspicious and proper way. 54.23

"Oh God like sage, people of the towns and village of my country, who live nearby, can easily see me and would often come to see me and Sita at this hermitage and because of that I do not have wish to stay here." 54.24-54.25

"Oh god like sage please suggest a suitable place for a hermitage in a solitary place, Where the daughter of Janaka who merits all comforts, can entertain herself." 54.26

After hearing these auspicious words of Rama, that great sage Bharadwaja told these words pregnant with meaning. 54.27

"Ten krosas [twenty miles] from here, there is a famous mountain called Chithrakuta which is similar to Gandhamadhana mountains and which is auspicious, served by great sages, very pleasant to look at full of wandering apes and habituated by monkeys and bears and you can live there." 54.28-54.29

"When men look at the peaks of Chithrakuta, they will do only auspicious deeds and sinful deeds will not even enter their mind." 54.30

"For hundreds of autumns many great sages did penance there till only skull remained on their heads and went to heaven from there." 54.31

"Oh Rama, I think that solitary place would be a nice place for you to live with joy, if you think otherwise you can live with me here till the time of banishment is over." 54.32

Bharadwaja honoured and fulfilled all the desires of his dear guest along with his wife and his brother. 54.33

In Prayaga when Rama was sitting near the sage, he told him several divine stories and the night again set in. 54.34

Overcome by tiredness, as he was accustomed to life luxury, that son of Kakustha clan along with Sita as third member of the group stayed that night in that very pretty hermitage. 54.35

After the night, in the morning, going near saint Bharadwaja, that tiger among men told that saint who had a shining luster. 54.36

"Oh God like sage of truthful character, we have spent the night in your hermitage and today we may be permitted to go to the dwelling place [suggested by you]." 54.37

When the night came to a close that saint Bharadwaja told Rama, "You may now go to Chithrakuta, which has plenty of roots, fruits and honey." 54.38

"Oh very strong Rama, the famous Chithrakuta having trees of all types, is visited by Kinnaras and Uragas. It is sacred, delightful and is visited by mighty tuskers and is always filled with sound of peacocks. I believe it is the proper place for you to stay and so you may go there." 54.39-54.40

"There you would see herds of elephants as well as hoards of deer. You will see them roaming in the forest." 54.41

"Along with Sita, when you are wandering, you will see waterfalls, rivers, plateaus, caves, mountain and torrents on that mountain." 54.42

"Filled with the delightful music of Koyashtika birds as well as Cuckoos and populated by deer, exuberant elephants that place is enchanting. When you reach there please stay in a hermitage." 54.43

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