Rama Reveals Exile to Sita
Ayodhyakanda - Sarga 26
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Ayodhyakanda - Sarga 26
Rama reveals to Sita his impending forest exile, ordered by King Dasharatha to fulfill Kaikeyi's boons. He instructs Sita on her conduct during his absence in Ayodhya.
After receiving blessings from his mother Kausalya, Rama prepared to leave for the forest. He walked along the royal highway, surrounded by people, his virtues stirring their hearts (2.26.1-2). Meanwhile, Sita, engrossed in religious austerities for the upcoming consecration, remained unaware of the unfolding events (2.26.3-4).
Having completed her worship of the gods, Sita eagerly awaited Rama's arrival. When Rama entered their well-decorated residence, his head was slightly bent with embarrassment. The crowd around him was excited, but Rama appeared distressed (2.26.5-6).
Sita, noticing Rama's pale face and agitation, asked with concern, "My lord, what troubles you? The learned brahmins (priests) declared today auspicious for your consecration under the Pushya star. Why do you look dejected?" (2.26.7-9)
She continued, describing the missing elements of the consecration ceremony (2.26.10-17):
The royal umbrella was not shading Rama's face.
Attendants were not fanning him with ceremonial fans.
Bards and panegyrists were absent, usually praising the king-to-be with auspicious words.
Brahmins versed in the Vedas had not sprinkled the mixture of honey and curd on Rama's head.
Ministers, guild leaders, and citizens were not following Rama in procession.
The ceremonial chariot with four swift horses was missing.
The auspicious elephant, resembling a dark cloud or mountain, was not leading the procession.
The golden throne was not being carried before Rama.
Sita observed, "Your face shows an unusual complexion, and there's no joy visible. Why is this happening when everything for the consecration should be ready?" (2.26.18)
Seeing Sita's distress, Rama, the joy of the Raghu race, said, "Sita, my venerable father is banishing me to the forest." (2.26.19)
Rama then explained the situation to Sita (2.26.20-23):
King Dasharatha had earlier granted two great boons to Rama's stepmother, Kaikeyi. These boons were promised during a critical moment in the past when Kaikeyi had saved the king's life.
When the king was preparing for Rama's consecration, Kaikeyi reminded him of the promise and demanded its fulfillment.
As per Kaikeyi's demands, Rama was to dwell in the Dandaka forest for fourteen years.
Bharata, Kaikeyi's son, had been appointed as the heir-apparent in Rama's place.
Rama advised Sita not to praise him in Bharata's presence, saying, "Intellectuals cannot tolerate others being praised before them." (2.26.24-25)
He instructed Sita to remain in Ayodhya, telling her to conduct herself favorably towards Bharata and the king. Rama emphasized that he must fulfill his father's promise and depart for the forest immediately (2.26.26-28).
Rama gave Sita specific instructions for her conduct during his absence:
Engage in religious vows and fasting (2.26.29).
Rise early, worship the gods, and pay respects to King Dasharatha (2.26.30).
Show respect to Rama's mother Kausalya, who is aged and grief-stricken (2.26.31).
Treat all of Rama's mothers (stepmothers) with equal respect. Rama had three stepmothers: Kaikeyi, Sumitra, and Kausalya (his birth mother) (2.26.32).
Regard Bharata as a brother and Shatrughna as a son (2.26.33).
Never do anything disagreeable to Bharata, who is now the king and head of the family (2.26.34).
Rama explained the nature of kings (2.26.35-36):
Kings are pleased when served with zeal and good conduct.
They may abandon even their own sons if harmful and accept capable strangers.
Finally, Rama said, "O beloved Sita, I am going to the great forest. Stay here and never cause displeasure to anyone. Could you carry out these words of mine?" (2.26.37-38)
This concludes the twenty sixth chapter (sarga) of Ayodhyakanda, the second book of the Ramayana, the great epic composed by the sage Valmiki.