Rama Consoles His Grieving Mother

Rama's exile unfolds as Kausalya laments and he reassures her. Witness their poignant exchange on duty, family, and destiny in this pivotal moment from the Ramayana's Ayodhya Kanda. 

Kausalya's Distress (Shlokas 2.24.1 - 2.24.8)

Kausalya, perceiving Rama's determination to carry out his father's command, spoke with a voice choked with tears:

"My son Rama, born of Dasharatha (the king of Ayodhya) and me, has never known sorrow. He speaks kindly to all beings. How will he now live on forest gleanings? His servants enjoy delicious meals. How will Rama eat roots and fruits in the forest?"

Kausalya continued, her voice filled with anguish:

1. "Who can believe that King Dasharatha is exiling his virtuous and beloved son Rama?

2. Who wouldn't tremble at this news?

3. O Rama, delight of the world, if you must go to the forest, then surely fate (krtanta) is all-powerful.

4. This fire of grief, fanned by the wind of your absence and fueled by my lamentations, will consume me like a forest fire in summer."

Rama's Reassurance (Shlokas 2.24.9 - 2.24.17)

Rama, the best among men, replied to his deeply afflicted mother:

"Mother Kausalya, the king was deceived by Kaikeyi (one of Dasharatha's wives). If you desert him after I've gone to the forest, he surely won't survive. It's cruel for a woman to desert her husband. You must not even think of such a contemptible act."

Rama continued, emphasizing the importance of duty:

1. "As long as father lives, serve him. This is the eternal duty (dharma) of a wife.

2. The king has authority over both of us.

3. Bharata (Rama's brother), who is virtuous and kind to all, will obey you. He's always devoted to righteousness (dharma).

4. After I leave, ensure the king doesn't suffer from grief. Serve him attentively, so this terrible sorrow doesn't ruin his health."

With supreme pleasure, Rama declared, "I shall roam the great forest for fourteen years, obeying your words."

Kausalya's Request and Rama's Response (Shlokas 2.24.18 - 2.24.30)

Kausalya, filled with maternal affection and distress, said:

"Rama, I can't live among these co-wives. Take me to the forest with you, like a wild deer (mrgi)."

Rama, with tears in his eyes, replied:

"For a living woman, her husband is her god and master. The king has authority over both of us. We're not without a master while the wise king, lord of the world, lives. Bharata, who is righteous and speaks kindly to all, will obey you. He's always devoted to duty (dharma)."

Rama advised his mother:

1. "Ensure the king doesn't suffer from grief after I'm gone.

2. Serve the elderly king with a composed mind.

3. A woman who doesn't follow her husband, even if pious and devoted to vows and fasting, is condemned.

4. But a woman who serves her husband attains the highest heaven, even if she doesn't worship the gods."

He continued, "This is the ancient dharma declared in the Vedas and Smritis (ancient Hindu texts). For my sake:

1. Worship the fire god (Agni) with offerings and flowers

2. Honor the Brahmins (priestly caste) true to their vows

3. Wait for my return, controlling yourself, eating moderately, and devoting yourself to serving your husband

If father, the best upholder of righteousness, survives until I return, you'll have your highest desires fulfilled."

Kausalya's Acceptance and Blessing (Shlokas 2.24.31 - 2.24.38)

Kausalya, her eyes filled with tears, replied:

"My brave son, I can't dissuade you from your firm resolve to go to the forest. Time is indeed difficult to overcome. Go with a steadfast mind, my son. May God be gracious to you always. Only upon your return will I be relieved of my suffering."

She blessed him, saying:

"O revered one, when you return:

1. Having accomplished your purpose

2. Fulfilled your vow

3. Repaid your debt to your father

I shall attain supreme happiness. The course of destiny is indeed inconceivable, as it prompts you to go to the forest, disregarding my words."

Kausalya concluded:

"Go now, my mighty-armed son, and return safely. Delight me with your sweet, gentle words when you come back. Oh, how I wish today were the day of your return, when I could see you wearing matted hair and bark robes!"

Finally, seeing Rama determined to go to the forest, Kausalya spoke these words of virtue to her son, preparing herself to perform ceremonies for his well-being.

This concludes the twenty fourth chapter (sarga) of Ayodhyakanda, the second book of the Ramayana, the great epic composed by the sage Valmiki.