Lakshmana Vows to Join Rama's Exile
Ayodhyakanda - Sarga 31
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Ayodhyakanda - Sarga 31
Lakshmana's unwavering devotion to Rama unfolds as he pleads to join the forest exile. Rama's attempts to dissuade him clash with Lakshmana's determination in this poignant Ramayana passage.
Lakshmana, who had arrived earlier, overheard the conversation between Sita and Rama. His eyes filled with tears, unable to bear the grief. He tightly grasped his brother's feet and addressed the illustrious Sita and the resolute Rama.
Lakshmana said:
"If you've decided to go to the forest teeming with deer and elephants, I shall walk ahead of you, carrying my bow.
With me by your side, you'll roam forests echoing with birdsong and animal herds.
Without you, I desire neither conquest over the gods, nor immortality, nor sovereignty over worlds."
Despite Lakshmana's determination, Rama tried to dissuade him with consoling words. However, Lakshmana, resolute in his decision to accompany Rama to the forest, spoke again:
"You've already granted me permission. Why are you now trying to stop me?"
Rama, addressing Lakshmana, who stood before him imploring with folded hands, said:
"You are affectionate, devoted to duty, valiant, and always virtuous.
You're dear to me like my own life, not just an obedient brother but also a friend.
If you come with me to the forest, who will care for mother Kausalya and the illustrious Sumitra?
King Dasaratha, once generous like Parjanya (the rain god), is now bound by the noose of passion due to his promise to Kaikeyi.
Once Kaikeyi gains control of the kingdom, she won't help her suffering co-wives.
Bharata, trusting in Kaikeyi, might neglect the miserable Kausalya and Sumitra.
Stay here and support venerable Kausalya, either by yourself or with the king's favor.
This will demonstrate your devotion to me and fulfill the great duty of serving elders.
Our mother won't be happy if we both leave her."
Lakshmana, skilled in speech, gently replied to Rama:
"Bharata will respect Kausalya and Sumitra, aware of your power.
Kausalya has a thousand villages for her sustenance and can support many like me.
She's capable of supporting herself, my mother, and others like me.
Make me your follower. This doesn't breach any duty. I'll fulfill my purpose and yours too.
I'll walk ahead with my bow and arrows, carrying a basket and crowbar, showing you the way.
I'll gather roots, fruits, and forest products suitable for ascetics.
While you enjoy the mountain slopes with Sita, I'll take care of everything, whether you're awake or asleep."
Pleased with Lakshmana's words, Rama said:
"Go and bid farewell to all your friends.
Collect the divine weapons given by Varuna (the god of waters) to King Janaka during his great sacrifice. These powerful weapons are significant for our protection in the forest:
Two awe-inspiring celestial bows
Two impenetrable divine armors
Two quivers with inexhaustible arrows
Two gold-plated swords, bright as the sun
These are kept at our preceptor Vasistha's house. Bring them swiftly."
Lakshmana took leave of his friends and collected the powerful weapons from Vasistha's house. He showed these sanctified and garlanded weapons to Rama.
Rama affectionately said to Lakshmana:
"You've come at the right time.
Let's give away my belongings to ascetic Brahmins (priests and scholars).
The best Brahmins live here, deeply devoted to their teachers, along with my dependents.
Quickly bring Suyajna, Vasistha's son, the best among Brahmins.
After paying homage to all the distinguished Brahmins, I shall depart for the forest."
This concludes the thirty first chapter (sarga) of Ayodhyakanda, the second book of the Ramayana, the great epic composed by the sage Valmiki.