Saturday, August 24, 2013

Ayodhya Kanda 1-18

Ayodhya Kandam

(The Book  on Ayodhya)
     (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 along with every one 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.)

1.Dasaratha proposes to crown Rama as Yuvaraja
        (Bharatha leaves to his uncle’s place.  Due to the very 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 the 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 keeps 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 never 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 the first   chapter  Of  book ofAyodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the first epic.

2.Dasaratha proposes Rama to become Yuvaraja  
( Dasaratha organizes   a meeting of his citizens , ministers , Brahmins as well as kings. He proposes that Rama should be made Yuvaraja. Not only the 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 Pushyamn(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 this 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 the 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.”

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

3.Arrangements for coronation is made  and Rama informed

(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 posses 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 the third  chapter  Of  the book of Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the first epic.

4.Rama’s coronation is fixed  and he meets his parents
(Dasaratha summons Rama again  and tells him that he often sees bad dreams . 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 that she was desiring 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 the fourth   chapter  Of  the book of Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the first epic.

5.Further preparations for Coronation Of Rama

(Dasaratha sends sage Vasishta to Rama to instruct  on the rituals to be observed. Vasishta carious 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 advice 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 advice 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 the fifth   chapter  Of  the book of Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the first epic

6.Rama observes rituals   and Ayodhya  celebrates

(Rama and Sita  performed the 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 hoards 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 the sixth  chapter  Of  the book of Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the first epic

7.Mandhara  tries to poison mind of Kaikeyi
(The hunchback Mandhara , who is the personal servant  of Kakieyi , tells her  that the crowning of Rama is a very 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  Her 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  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  gave 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 the seventh  chapter  Of  the book Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the first epic.

8. Mandhara poisons the mind of Kakieyi (contd)
(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 becomes 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 the eighth   chapter  Of  the book of Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the  first epic.

9.Kaikeyi is influenced by Mandhara

(By the very influencing words of Mandhara , Kaikeyi asks Mandhara for a plan to crown Bharatha. Mandhara suggests she 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 of anger)   
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 was knowing 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 the 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 very 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 the ninth   chapter  Of  the book of Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the
first epic.

10. Dasaratha consoles Kaikeyi who is angry

(Dasaratha is shocked to see   his young wife in the room of anger . He promises that  , he will fulfill all her wishes as   she is very dear to him. Kaikeyi gets hope.)

That lady  misled by the  very sinful  hunchback  lay  down on earth like a Kinnara woman hit by  a poisoned arrow.                                                                                                                                                  10.1
After making  up her mind extremely well, that pretty  , very skilful  lady , told everything slowly to Mandhara.                                                                                                                                                            10.2
After hearing the world that dejected pretty lady  having  made  up her mind  breathed  long hot breath thought for some time  and determined ways   , which will lead her to happiness.                               10.3
That Mandhara who was aiming  for her  own benefit,   heard the queen’s  firm decision , became very happy  and felt as if she has succeeded.                                                                                                         10.4
That very angry lady  greatly angry and with a face knitted , with great determination  lay  down on the floor .                                                                                                                                                                     10.5
That Kaikeyi then threw the colorful  garlands and divine  ornaments  and they reached the floor.  10.6
The garlands and ornaments which were thrown away by her  was making the earth shine  like the stars in the sky.                                                                                                                                                              10.7
She was  lying down on the floor of the house of anger with  dirty cloths  and tying a single braid like a kinnara woman.                                                                                                                                                  10.8
After passing various orders regarding the coronation,  the king took leave of those present  and entered his home.                                                                                                                                                            10.9
King Dasaratha  who had his senses under control , though thinking that news of Rama’s coronation was known to everybody  entered his private apartments so that   he can communicate the good news to her , who merited his love.                                                                                                                                   10.10
He who was very famous  went to the home of Kaikeyi like a moon  accompanied by Rahu on a white sky.                                                                                                                                                                     10.11
Dasaratha entered  his inner apartment   resembling heaven which was filled with parrots and peacocks , filled with the sound of swans and kinnara birds, filled with music from musical instruments ,with hunchbacks and dwarfs moving here and there , blessed with Champaka ,  Asoka trees and houses of creepers, picture galleries , with stages decorated by gold, silver and ivory, filled with trees yielding flowers and fruits daily, Water tanks decorated by gold, silver and ivory, Excellent seats various kinds of food and drinks , various kinds of other eatables  and with expensive decorations  but did not see his beloved wife Kaikeyi  on the excellent bed.                                                                                      10.12-10.16
That passionate king   seeking sexual pleasure  not seeing his beloved wife was dejected and enquired with great depression .                                                                                                                                    10.17
Previously Kaikeyi was never  missing at that time  and the king had never before entered an empty apartment.                                                                                                                                                         10.18
The king having reached the apartment  without knowing the whereabouts   of  foolish  Kaikeyi who was  seeking  selfish interest , as usual enquired.                                                                                                10.19
Then the trembling door keeper  bowing with folded hands told him, “Oh Lord , lady was in great wrath and  went speedily towards the room of anger.”                                                                                       10.20
The king hearing the words of the door keeper became more agitated  and due to his passionate frame  of mind  again became sad.                                                                                                                            10.21
Then he saw her in the room of anger  lying   in an improper way  and felt that she was feeling    great sorrow .                                                                                                                                                                10.22
That sinless old man,  regarded his youthful wife with sinful intentions , much greater than his own life and she looked like a severed creeping plant  and also like a goddess  as well as kinnara lady   who has fallen on earth  and she also looked  to him like an Apsara maiden who has slipped in to earth and like a  broken down illusion and like a female deer which was tied down.                                             10.23-10.25
Then Dasaratha touched her like a giant elephant touching a she elephant which has fallen down due to a poisonous arrow.                                                                                                                                             10.26
That passionate one who was  completely   shattered due to his fear , touched  that lotus eyed lady and spoke to her   with great humility.                                                                                                                  10.27
“Oh lady of auspicious qualities , I never knew that you were angry with me,. Who has cursed you? Who has insulted you? I am immensely sad that you are resting on this dirty floor.”                                   10.28
“When I have mind favourable to you, why are  lying down like this on the floor like one possessed by the devil and causing me great sorrow?                                                                                                        10.29
“If you are not feeling well, there are skilled doctors who are being praised   everywhere who can make you healthy and so please tell your sickness.”                                                                                             10.30
“To whom do you want to favour? Who has done something which is not liked by you? To whom should I show a favour  and to whom should I do offense?”                                                                                 10.31
“Oh great lady, do not weep nor make your body dehydrated? If you tell me , I shall kill a person who does not merit to be killed and  release a person who merits to be killed.  I shall make a poor man wealthy  and a rich man a beggar.”                                                                                                     10.32-10.33
“I and all people under my control would obey you  and I do not want to even a little thing which is  not liked by you.”                                                                                                                                                       10.34
“Tell me anything which you like and I would get it done  even losing my soul and you know me so well that   you would not have any doubt in that. I take an oath on Dharma that I would do whatever you like.”                                                                                                                                                                     10.35
“My earth is as long as the extent my chariot can go. The eastern countries of Sindhu , Sauvira and Saurashtra , all the southern countries ,. The countries like Anga, Vanga, Magadha,Mathsya  and the prosperous Kasi and Kosala    are under my control.”                                                                     10.36-10.37
In those countries are produced wealth,   grains, animal products  and which of those do you want to acquire, Oh Kaikeyi?”                                                                                                                                    10.38
“Oh coward , what is the need for all these exertion  and  please get up, Oh pretty one. Oh Kaikeyi tell me the source of your fear. I shall remove them forthwith like a sun removes the mist.”             10.39
Consoled by the words spoken by him, she was getting prepared  to tell words he may not like  and she started harassing her husband further.”                                                                                                  10.40

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

11.Kaikeyi asks her two boons.

(Dasaratha  promises her to give any boon asked by her and takes the oath on Rama. Kaikeyi reminds him of the earlier  war and his promise to give her two boons. She wants Bharatha   to be crowned next day and that  Rama should go to the forest   for fourteen years.)

Armed with the darts of the God of love , she addressed the king who was completely caught in the net of passion  with the  following words.                                                                                                            11.1
“Oh god like king, I have not been offended by any one nor was I insulted by anyone but I want to communicate an opinion of mine to you.”                                                                                                      11.2
“If you want to fulfill my desires, then give me a promise that you will fulfill  whatever I ask for. Then I will tell you what I want.”                                                                                                                                    11.3
The magnificent Dasaratha  in the throes of passion  with a visible smile , took  the  hair  of the lady who can smile brightly  in his hand and said.                                                                                                           11.4
“Oh lady with pride , don’t you  know that there is no one whom I  love more than  yourself other than the best among men Rama.”                                                                                                                               11.5
“I take an oath on the invincible Rama , who is broad minded   and who is best among all those who live and so please tell me what your mind desires?”                                                                                             11.6
“Ok Kaikeyi , I cannot live even for a moment without seeing Rama  and as per your words, I take an oath.”                                                                                                                                                                       11.7
“Oh Kaikeyi , I would choose Rama, the best among men  , more than me or my  other sons and I am taking an oath on him.”                                                                                                                                  11.8
“Oh lady with great virtue, my heart is sinking and so Oh  Kaikeyi touch me and lit my heart up  and after you consider well, please tell me what you want?”                                                                                  11.9
“You know your strength on my mind  and there is no need for any doubt about it.  I swear on my merits that I will do whatever you want .”                                                                                                             11.10
That lady who was intent on fulfilling her wish , expressed her wish using very harsh words    and without giving any alternative solution.                                                                                                   11.11
Becoming greatly happy by his words , she spoke about her wish  which  is highly dreadful and which had come in her mind like the God of death .”                                                                                         11.12
“You have been repeatedly taking an oath that you will fulfill my wish and let the thirty three  gods lead  by the fire God listen to it.”                                                                                                                           11.13
“Let the moon, the sun, the sky , all the planets, night as well as day, the ten directions, the entire world with all Gandharwas , Rakshasas, the ghosts who move around at night , the home gods in all homes   and all other beings , know the words of your promise.”                                                               11.14-11.15
“Let all the gods hear that the truthful , greatly lustrous , votary of Dharma  and the well composed Dasaratha  is granting me his word.”                                                                                                               11.16
That Lady after flattering the great archer Dasaratha like this  and spoke like this to the passion filled giver of boons.”                                                                                                                                                   11.17
“Ok king  , remember the battle between Devas and Asuras which took place long ago and there the enemy destroyed your everything except your life.”                                                                                   11.18
“Oh God like person, you conferred on me two boons when I rescued you  as  I made great efforts  with alertness to save you.”                                                                                                                                      11.19
“Oh king, Oh lord wedded to truth, oh god, now I am seeking those  boons which were left with you , to be demanded when I want them.”                                                                                                                 11.20
“Thus bound by dharma, if you do not give me those boons , insulted by you, I would give up my life immediately .”                                                                                                                                                      11.21
Thus that  Kaikeyi made the king in to her power   by the arrow of words  and the king entered in to the trap laid by her like a deer walking in to the trap.                                                                                          11.22
After wards she spoke to the king who   was caught in passion  and who was also the giver of boons “Oh God, now I will ask for those boons which you had given me earlier  and Oh king , I will ask them now, please hear.”                                                                                                                                                         11.23 
“Arrangements have been already made for the coronation of Rama  and with these materials you now conduct the coronation of Bharatha.”                                                                                                             11.24
“Oh God, you have also given me a second boon , pleased with me, in the war between devas and asuras and time has come to ask that also.”                                                                                                   11.25
“Rama like a saint should live for fourteen years in the Dandaka forest  clad in bark of wood or  skin of deer and wearing a matted hair.”                                                                                                                      11.26
“Let Bharatha enjoy the position of  Yuvaraja without any thorns to trouble him  and this is my great desire and please grant it. I want to see Rama departing to the forest today itself.”                  11.27-11.28
“Oh king of kings, become the protector of truth  and protect your clan, character  and birth. Those whose wealth is penance are saying that  only telling of truth will ensure  you great welfare in the other world.”                                                                                                                                                                    11.29

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

12. The shattered Dasaratha requests Kaikeyi to reconsider.

(Dasaratha is shattered  and here he  reasons out , chides, shouts , begs     and requests  Kaikeyi to change her decision.. She seems to be unyielding.) 

Hearing those  horrible words   , the great king , became very sad  and extremely pained.                     12.1
He thought , “Am I dreaming ? Has my mind paralyzed? Is it one of those bad omens which I have been experiencing recently? Or is it a disease of the mind?”                                                                                12.2
Having thought over like this, the king did not get comfort. Being beaten by the words of Kaikeyi ,  that king could not regain  his senses for a long time and after that he felt startled and distressed  like a deer seeing a ferocious tigress. Then he sat  down in a great stupor and he heaved sighs  like a  highly venomous snake controlled in a circle by  powerful chants. After saying “What a pity?’  being benumbed by great sorrow, he again lost his consciousness.                                                                                   12.3-12.5
After a long time he regained his consciousness , affected by great sorrow, with burning eyes saw Kaikeyi    and said.                                                                                                                                                 12.6
“Oh cruel woman, Oh lady of bad character , oh destroyer of the clan, what sin has Rama done and for that matter what sin I have done?”                                                                                                                  12.7
“That son of Raghu clan was   treating  you equal to his mother, and for what purpose are you trying to bring misfortune to him?”                                                                                                                                12.8
“ Out of ignorance,   thinking  that you are  a daughter of a king , I brought you  home not knowing that you are   a very poisonous snake  and invited my own destruction.”                                                      12.9
“When all the living world is praising Rama , for what crime should I abandon my son.”                 12.10
“I can give up Kausalya , Sumithra or all my wealth  but  If I am alive I will not give up Rama ,  who is my darling son.”                                                                                                                                                     12.11
“I feel supreme bliss on seeing my first born son and if I do not seem him , my soul will be lost.” 12.12
“The world can exist without sun and crops can exist without water  but I  and my body cannot exist without Rama.”                                                                                                                                             12.13
“Oh lady who has decided to do sin, this is enough . Give up your evil intention . I am touching your feet with my head . Please take mercy on me.”                                                                                                12.14
“Oh sinful one, why did you get this horrible thought . Are you interested in knowing my opinion of Bharatha? Let it be like that. Earlier you used to say “Rama  is like my eldest son . He is an expert in Dharma and one who fulfills his duty  of  my eldest son perfectly.”  Such sweet words uttered by  you
Could not have been spoken only to please me.”                                                                      12.15-12.17
“You are one who listens to the words of others  and you have caused me great pain by entering this empty room of anger.”                                                                                                                              12.18
“Oh lady, till now you have been possessing  great virtues  but now  a great immorality has fallen on the clan of Ikshuvakus.”                                                                                                                                    12.19
“Oh broad eyed one , you have never even done a minute improper or wrong act towards me  in the past  and for that reason I am unable to believe your words .”                                                         12.20
“Oh childish girl, several times you have told me that the great  Rama is equal to Bharatha   to you .”
                                                                                                                                                                       12.21
“Oh lady who is a coward, how is it that you are desiring   that famous votary of Dharma should  stay in the forest  for fourteen years.? “                                                                                                             12.22
“Why do you desire the very tender Rama who follows Dharma should stay in a dreadful forest?”  12.23
“Oh lady with auspicious eyes, Why do you desire Rama should go away to a far off place when he is interested in serving you?”                                                                                                                         12.24
“Rama is always doing much more service to you than Bharatha and because of that I feel that  you should not  have more affection towards Bharatha.”                                                                            12.25
“Though there are thousands of lady attendants to you in your apartment, I feel , Rama, the best among men,  will honour you , do you great service  and carries out all your orders truthfully. “            12.26
“The word of blame or word of finding fault never applies to Rama . Rama  with a clean mind appeases    all beings. He attracts everyone in the country  by performing acts dear to them.”          12.27-12.28
“He wins people by truth and he wins the downtrodden by charity and wins over elders by doing service to them and  he wins over his enemies   by his bow. “                                                                      12.29
“Truth , charity , penance, sacrifice , friendliness , purity , uprightness , knowledge, service to the elders  are fixed firmly in the mind of that son of Raghu clan.”                                                                           12.30
“Oh lady, he is  the one endowed with honesty , he resembles devas  and has luster greater than sages  and how can you desire harm to such a one.”                                                                                            12.31
“I never recollect  having heard  Rama who speaks sweet words, speaking unpleasant words to any one and for your sake , how can I speak such unpleasant words to him.”                                                    12.32
“What can I ever do without Rama blessed with forgiveness, self –command , sacrifice, truth , Dharma, gratefulness , and also  non violence towards all   human beings.”                                                        12.33
Oh Kaikeyi,  you need to give consideration to my old age , being on the verge of death,  and also being wretched and wailing  and show mercy on me.”                                                                                        12.34
“I would give you anything that  one can  find in this earth   surrounded by the ocean  and so please leave out your anger.”                                                                                                                                       12.35
“Oh Kaikeyi, I bow to you with folded palms and I will also touch your feet  . I surrender to you  and not sin done to Rama touch me.”                                                                                                                          12.36
Then Kaikeyi who was extremely    angry   replied using harsher words  to the king  who was drowned in sorrow , crying , deprived of his senses , tottering with distress , overwhelmed  with great pain of sorrow,  who was  again and again  requesting  her  not  to take him to the other bank of the   ocean of sorrow.                                                                                                                                                    12.37-12.38
“Oh king if you are repenting like this after giving the boon , how can you talk of Dharma in this earth?’
                                                                                                                                                                            12.39
“Oh follower of Dharma, when innumerable royal sages join together and ask you about it, what answer will you give?”                                                                                                                                                  12.40
“Will you tell them, “By Kaikeyi’s  grace I am living  and  she  looked after me, and I am breaking the oath given to her.”                                                                                                                                                   12.41
“Oh great king you are bringing great disgrace   to all kings , by giving the two  boons and   by talking differently  as of now.”                                                                                                                                 12.42
“When the pigeon and hawk   had a disagreement , King Shaibya gave his pound of flesh  and king Alarka  , gave away his eyes and went to heaven.”                                                                                            12.43
“Having the oath to the Gods,  water of oceans  never cross over to the shore .Please recollect the stories of earlier kings  and do not make yourself  false.”                                                                         12.44
“Oh bad one you want to go against Dharma , install Rama as a king and enjoy the remaining life with Kausalya.”                                                                                                                                                    12.45
“Whatever I have demanded  may be according to Dharma or against Dharma, it may be true or false  but  you cannot go away from the promise that you have  given.”                                                 12.46
“If Rama is installed as Yuvaraja today  , In your presence I will drink strong poison  and will  die when you are watching me.”                                                                                                                                     12.47
“Even if for one day I see the mother of Rama being honoured  and receives salutations , I would prefer to die.”                                                                                                                                                       12.48
“Oh lord of men, I am taking a vow  on Bharatha  and  on my life that I would not get satisfied by anything except banishing of   Rama to the forest.”                                                                         12.49
After seeing all this  Kaikeyi became silent   and did not give any reply to the king  who was  wailing .
                                                                                                                                                                    12.50
That king hearing the  inauspicious boons asked   by Kaikeyi  about Rama’s banishment to the forest and the very wealthy life of Bharatha , due to great sorrow did not talk to Kaikeyi     for a long time. 
                                                                                                                                                                    12.51
He stared at his dear queen who was telling words which    were not liked  by him , who shot words as strong as Vajrayudha at him, and was filled by dreadful distress and anguish  and felt great amount  of discomfort.                                                                                                                                       12.52-12.53
He thought over  the great determination of Kaikeyi as well as the vow taken by her , the king crying “Oh Rama” fell down like     a severed tree.                                                                                                       12.54
Having lost his mind and behaving like a mad man  and behaving in a contrary  manner , he was a sick person  bereft of his luster he was lying  like a serpent .                                                                         12.55
The king addressed  Kaikeyi  in great sorrow, “Who has given you this meaningless   idea which  appears to be in your interest? You are talking to me   without   any shame , with your faculties being directed by a devil.”                                                                                                                                                               12.56
“Earlier , when you were young , I never noticed this ,  sorrow due to absence of character  in you  and now I am seeing the just opposite of it.”                                                                                                      12.57
“You were requesting that Bharatha should occupy the throne and Rama should go to the forest. Who put this fear of Rama in you?”                                                                                                                        12.58  
“If you want to do good service to your husband as well as Bharatha , leave the thought permanently  that Bharatha should become the king and Rama should go to the forest.”                                        12.59
“Oh cruel lady, Oh sinful lady , Oh troublesome one , oh lady who does evil deeds , what sin(drawback) are you seeing in me and Rama.”                                                                                                                12.60
“Removing Rama from the throne, Bharatha will never occupy it because he is much more stronger  in Dharma  than Rama.”                                                                                                                                   12.61
“How can I see the pale face of Rama who has a moon like face , when I tell him to go  to the forest”
                                                                                                                                                                         12.62
“I have taken the decision to make Rama as Yuvaraja in consultations with my friends  and  going back from the decision would be like retreating before an army after being defeated by enemy armies. How can I see the face of kings from different states  for they will ask, how did this childlike Dasaratha   rule the country for so long?”                                                                                                                   12.63-12.64
“When various elders possessing various virtues and  who are also well known , ask me about the Kakustha clan, what shall I reply them?”                                                                                                  12.65
If I tell them the truth  that , “I took the decision  to  banish Rama , due to torture of Kaikeyi”  they will think that I am telling a lie.”                                                                                                                       12.66
“Suppose I banish Rama to the forest, what will Kausalya tell about it? After doing such an unpleasant act , what reply can I give her?”                                                                                                                12.67
“Oh lady,  Kausalya with sweet words  , who is desirous of my welfare  and who gave me,  my very dear son , looked after me  like a servant , like a friend, like a wife , like a sister and  like a mother  and merited my great attention but  never got it.”                                                                       12.68-12.69
“I have done lot of good to you and now like a sick person  eating rice with tasteless add on , those actions are burning me.”                                                                                                                         12.70
“If Sumithra sees the punishment meted   out to Rama by sending him to forest , what confidence will she have on me?”                                                                                                                                    12.71
“In a greatly pitiable state that Vaidehi(Daughter of Videha) will hear about the two bad news of Rama going to the forest   and also my death.”                                                                                          12.72
“Vaidehi would  become sad for my death like a she kinnara being thrown on slopes of Himalaya   by a Kinnara.”                                                                                                                                                12.73
“After I see Rama  travel to the great forest   and after seeing Sita crying , I will not be alive   for a long time. “                                                                                                                                                   12.74
“Oh lady , as a widow along with your son , you will   look after this kingdom for a long time as I do not wish to live after Rama goes to the forest.”                                                                                 12.75
“ Like people drinking wine mixed with poison as wine  , I was considering   you as  a very pretty chaste woman  you are  really unchaste.”                                                                                            12.76
“You used to comfort me with sweet but untrue words ,like a hunter attracting a deer by music and later killing  it.”                                                                                                                                      12.77
“Respectable gentleman would certainly call me ungentlemanly for having sold my son  and consider me like a mean Brahmin who has consumed  liquor.”                                                              12.78
“What a sorrow, what a pain  that I have to tolerate your words .This sorrow must have come because of the sins   committed by me earlier.”                                                                                12.79
“Oh sinner , due to the sins committed by me , I was protecting you till now for a long time and it is like the rope  taken care of well, turning  in to a noose to hang me .”                               12.80
“All along when you were entertaining me and I did not realize that you are goddess of death. It was like a child in a solitary dark place touching a venomous snake that I touched you.”      12.81
“Being wicked minded, I have made the great Rama as fatherless  and the people of the world can rightly condemn me.”                                                                                                           12.82
“What a great childishness, that Dasaratha , the soul of passion  is sending his son to the forest for the sake of a woman.” they will say.”                                                                                      12.83
“Rama already emaciated due to celibacy  as well as penances as prescribed by the Gurus , is going  to
suffer further great pain in this time meant for pleasure.”                                         12.84
“If I see a word ,”go to the forest”  my son will not wait for a second word and say and  he would immediately go to the forest.”                                                                                         12.85
“If my Rama is urged to go to the forest, if he tells a word opposing to it , then it will be very dear to me.”                                                                                                                                      12.86
“Pure in thought Rama will not know my intentions  and if I say “go to forest” , he will say “immediately.”                                                                                                                    12.87
“If that son of Raghu clan  goes to the forest , being berated by all the world, and death will take me  to the land of God of death.”                                                                                                12.88
“After the greatest among men Rama goes to the forest  and after I am dead, of sinful woman, what are your plans of treatment of those who are dear to me?  “                                         12.89
“If Kausalya loses me ,  her son Rama and her other sons, she will not able to bear the sorrow and follow me and die.”                                                                                                                      12.90
“Oh Kaikeyi , after throwing me, Kausalya , Sumithra and my other three sons to hell, please lead a pleasant life.”                                                                                                                    12.91
“After me and Rama  are thrown out . the stable Ikshuvaku clan which does only good  and which cannot be shaken ,will be continue with great sorrow.”                                                       12.92
“If Banishing of Rama to the forest is liked by Bharatha , after I am dead , let Bharatha not perform my funeral rites.”                                                                                                                  12.93
“Oh my enemy , Oh one who is not a cultured lady ,Oh Kaikeyi, be fulfilled in your desires , After Rama the best among men has left to the forest  and after my death , you rule this  kingdom along with your son. “                                                                                                                      12.94-12.95
“Till now you were living in my abode as the daughter of a king and I am sure to get  matchless bad fame  and be disgraced and all living beings  would look at me who is a sinner  with great contempt.”
                                                                                                                                        12.96
“My son Rama was used always to move around on horses  or elephants of chariots  but now he will  walk around the forest on foot.”                                                                              12.97
“During his food time cooks wearing ear globes used to compete with each other  for preparing excellent food and drinks.  How will my son live in the forest eating astringent , bitter  and pungent roots and fruits.”                                                                                                           12.98-12.99
“”Having enjoyed a great life of pleasure wearing costly cloths , how will he live wearing ochre robes, that too sleeping on the floor.”                                                                             12.100
“Who has given this inconceivable   and dreadful advise of sending Rama to the forest and crowning of Bharatha?”                                                                                                                12.101
“The name woman means one who are  always  adamant  and greatly selfish  but I can’t say that all women are like the mother of Bharatha.”                                                         12.102
“Oh dangerous lady, oh lady with avarice , oh cruel lady , Oh lady with a firm intention of making me pitiable , What undesirable qualities are you seeing  in Rama  who is devoted to welfare of others?”
                                                                                                                                    12.103
“On seeing Rama plunged in great sorrow , fathers would leave their sons  and wives who love their husbands are also   would abandon  them.”                                                    12.104
“Me seeing my god like son fully decorated coming towards me  would be drowned in joy and just seeing him would make me younger.”                                                             12.105
“The  earth can continue to live without the Sun or the rains caused  by Devendra holding Vajrayudha  but I am sure all those who see Rama  go to the forest would not be interested in living further.”
                                                                                                                                12.106
“I made you who like an enemy who  desires  my destruction as well as  the ruin  of others to love me and all that while  for a long time I was keeping a highly poisonous snake on my lap , like one keeping his death near him.  Due to delusion  I am now ruined.”                                  12.107
“Let you and Bharatha, without me, Rama and Lakshmana, having killed all our relations , rule the kingdom , to the delight all of our enemies.”                                              12.108
“You are a woman of very cruel nature , hitting others when they are   drenched in sorrow  and I am not able understand why your teeth are not breaking in to thousands of  pieces  and fall on the ground , when you are  talking such harsh unpalatable words?”                          12.109
“Rama never tells even slightly  unpalatable , unkind and  harmful words . He does not know how to talk harsh words. He always talks pleasing  words   and recognized  and honoured for his great virtues. How are you finding faults with him?”                                                               12.110
“The contemptible one of  the Kekaya country, You grieve , get burnt   and get destroyed .Even if you  get broken in to thousand pieces  and reach the earth , the very pitiable me will not act  according to your words.”                                                                                                    12.111
“You are like a knife , talking daily sweet and deceitful words , having wicked nature , destroying your own clan, one who never pleases the mind and interested only in destroying my mind from its roots and so I cannot  tolerate living with you.”                                                          12.112
“I do not have a life without my son and why to talk of  happiness in my life. While I am alive a self respecting man will not seek carnal pleasures from you. Oh lady you should not do this harmful act. I will touch your feet, please be kind to me.”                                                     12.113
“Much beyond the limit of his respectability that king , whose heart was in the grip of a woman, like an orphan  wailed and tried to touch her feet but because she pulled them out  , he could not touch her feet and fell down  like a very sick person.”                                                12.114

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

13. Dasaratha tries diplomacy but fails

(Dasaratha again cries but when he sees that  she is not bothered about it flatters   her in various eways and requests her   not to insist on that boon.)

The king  who did not merit this treatment  was lying down in an  unsuitable manner  like King Yayathi  who had fallen from the land of devas after his blessed deeds are exhausted. That personification of danger who was adamant on her opinions , displaying fear though not having any fear , again urged him for the boons that she has asked.                                                                                                              13.1-13.2
“Oh king you used to boast that you are a votary of truth  and steadfast on what you do, Why are you trying to avoid granting the boons that I requested?”                                                                            13.3
The king Dasaratha addressed this way by Kaikeyi , remained for some time in a state of delirium   and angrily replied.                                                                                                                                               13.4
“Oh fatal woman, Oh my enemy , Oh  person who is not like a lady , after the great man  Rama  goes to the forest and after I die , you can live happily after achieving your objective.”                              13.5
“When devas ask me about the welfare of Rama after I reach there , how will I tell them about his banishment? How?”                                                                                                                                   13.6
“If I tell them, “To please Kaikeyi , I have banished him to the forest “  they will think that  I am telling them a lie.”                                                                                                                                                 13.7
“Me who  was childless , with great effort , I got the very great Rama  , who was very strong and so how I can forsake him.”                                                                                                                                     13.8
“How can I banish the lotus eyed   Rama  who is valorous , well educated , one who has won over anger, one who is patient .   “                                                                                                                            13.9
“How can I send Rama  who has the black colour of blue lotus , who has long hands  , who is very strong and who is charming every second.”                                                                                                 13.10
“He deserves pleasure and not suitable for sorrow and how can I see  the sagacious   Rama who is caught in sorrow.”                                                                                                                                 13.11
“Without  sorrow reaching  Rama  , if death comes to me now, I would be really happy.”   13.12
“Oh Cruel Kaikeyi with evil intentions  , Rama has truth as his valour  and is very dear to me  and why do you want to cause harm to him ? Inevitably I  will get matchless notoriety  and disgrace  in this world by this.”                                                                                                                                                          13.13
When with  a nervous mind  he was  crying  the sun went down the Astra mountain and night set in.” 
                                                                                                                                                                   13.14
“For the king with the  anguished mind  who was lamenting , the time dragged on for three quarters night , and the moon was shining , it appeared dark for him.”                                                    13.15
That very old king Dasaratha breathing  warmly and heavily  like a sick man, stared at the sky  and pitiably cried.                                                                                                                                        13.16
“Oh auspicious  looking night adorned with stars  do not ever give way to dawn as I do not desire it. I would salute you with folded hands  and beg you to do this kindness to me.”                       13.17
“Or otherwise go away quickly as I do not want to see  the heartless , malicious Kaikeyi , who has done such a bad thing to me .”                                                                                                                   13.18
Having told like this the king Dasaratha , folding his hands in salutation try to please Kaikeyi again and spoke these    words.”                                                                                                                         13.19
“Oh fortunate one, oh lady , I am a humble  and depressed   old man  with good conduct  who is greatly devoted to you. Please do this favour  specially because  I am a king.”                                   13.20
“ Oh lady with a fair hip, All that I have not  has not been told to any one and Oh young one as you are very good hearted please do me this favour.”                                                                             13.21
“Oh queen ,be pleased Let this very big  kingdom be given by you to Rama. Oh lady with long eye lashes .”                                                                                                                                                           13.22
“Oh lady with elegant hips,  charming eyes and a  pretty face , you will be doing this  to me, Rama , to the world , to the great teachers and to Bharatha.”                                                                   13.23
Hearing the pitiable wail of  the   king with very good  thoughts, with a  stable mind  whose eyes were reddened  and filled with tears  and who was pitiably wailing , that wicked malicious woman  did not obey him.                                                                                                                                            13.24
Seeing  that beloved wife  was  not pleased  in spite of his humble requests  and was urging him to banish his son , again the king  fainted and fell on the ground overcome with his grief.  13.25
Like this the grieving  , very  intelligent king  , spent the night breathing heavily  and after the end of the night that great king stopped   his attendants from awakening him . 13.26

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

14.The day of coronation dawns
(Kaikeyi keeps on tormenting Dasaratha . the day of coronation dawns. Vasishta wants to see the king    and sends Sumanthra  to announce his arrival. The king  is not able to tell anything. Kaikeyi orders  Sumanthra   to bring Rama immediately.)
That sinner looked at the scion of Ikshuvaku clan who had  been tortured  on account of sorrow regarding his son  and  who  had lost his senses  and was writhing on the floor and said.               14.1
“ After hearing  about the promised boons , why are  you acting like a dejected man  and lying  on the floor as if   you have committed a sin ? You should maintain your dignity.”                                     14.2
“People who are conversant with Dharma  say that telling truth is a great virtue  and I have told you , your duty if you are going to depend on truth.”                                                                                     14.3
“Oh king, Saibhya the king , kept up his promise to the hawk and gave it his own body and attained the highest state .”                                                                                                                                             14.4
“In the same way , the lustrous Halarka , when a Brahmin  who had mastered Vedas , begged from him, plucked his own eyes   and gave it to him.”                                                                                           14.5
“The ocean who is the lord of the rivers who follows the truth , even on the days of high tide does not cross  the  thin boundary  at his shore. “                                                                                               14.6
“”Truth” is a word that is Brahman, Dharma is installed on truth  and “Truth” is  the never dying Vedas  and  only by depending on truth you can attain the highest state .”                                             14.7
“Oh good man, If your brain  is fixed firmly on Dharma , follow truth and fulfill the boons given to me. Are you really  a boon giver?”                                                                                                               14.8
“As per my requests , for the sake of fulfilling your dharma  , Rama may be exiled to the forest. I am repeating this thrice.”                                                                                                                             14.9
“Oh husband, at this time , if you do not fulfill my request, it means you have forsaken me and so I will give up my life.”                                                                                                                                    14.10
BY the urgings of Kaikeyi  done without any hesitation , Dasaratha felt trapped in the noose of his promise like Mahabali got trapped in the noose set by Indra.                                                   14.11
Due to the heart beating fast , his face became ashen and pale  and  he was like a bullock torturously moving  between  the yoke and the wheel.                                                                                    14.12
That king with blurred eyes and a very poor vision , with great difficulty  and courage , he found is footing stood up and told Kaikeyi.                                                                                                   14.13
“Oh sinner I married you  according  to Vedic rituals  with fire as the witness and now I will give you up along with your son begotten through me.”                                                                               14.14
“Oh lady, the night has gone away and the sun is about to rise. My guru and others will now definitely hasten me up  to get ready for the coronation  of Rama with the preparations already made. “ 14.15
“Oh woman of inauspicious practices , , if you prevent Rama’s coronation, then you and your son would not be eligible to do water based funeral rites to my dead body.”                                             14.16-14.17
“I am not capable of seeing  their  cheerless, joyless downcast faces having seen them enjoying pleasures.”                                                                                                                                              14.18
While the great king was talking to her like this the night with moon and stars faded away  and the auspicious day time dawned.                                                                                                           14.19
Afterwards  that Kaikeyi with sinful behaviour , who was an expert in speech but rendered speechless due to great   anger  again spoke these harsh words to the king.                                               14.20
“Oh king , why are you speaking these words of venomous pain? It is proper for you to summon immediately Rama who has not suffered any pain.”                                                                   14.21
“Only after crowning my son and banishing  Rama to the forest , and seeing me without any rivals, you would have done your duty.”                                                                                                               14.22
Like a  well bred horse lashed by the sharp whip,  King Dasaratha, was greatly agitated by the words of Kaikeyi and said                                                                                                                                     14.23
“I am fettered by Dharma and my intelligence has vanished and I want to see  my eldest son, who is  virtuous  and beloved Rama”                                                                                                              14.24
By that time the night had lifted and gave way to morning  and the sun has risen and the auspicious  star   also had come  and sage Vasishta  surrounded by  several disciples of good character  after assembling the required materials entered the city.                                                                                 14.25-14.26
The streets of Ayodhya were swept and sprinkled with water and flowers of different hues were spread on them . The  great flags also had been hoisted and decorated with flower garlands. The roads were crowded by people who were in joyous mood and for the sake of coronation of Rama festivities were being held in various places. The people were anxiously crowding everywhere.  Sandalwood and other incense were burnt everywhere and the city resembled the capital city of Indra. Vasishta who entered the city   saw   the king’s private apartments  , which was graced with very learned Brahmins    who were experts in rituals  relating to  the rules of conducting a Yagna,  Several assistants and other   eminent Brahmins were also present.                                                                                                     14-27-14.30
The great sage Vasishta , greatly pleased  entered the private apartments  passed through large number of people.                                                                                                                                               14.31
Sage Vasishta saw  at the entrance of those apartments   of Dasaratha, the tiger  among men,  the very pleasing Sumanthra   who was a minster as well as the charioteer  .                                       14.32
The sage Vasishta who had great luster told that son of a charioteer “please announce my arrival   to the king.”                                                                                                                                                     14.33
“Here are pots of  Ganga water   and also golden pots with water of the ocean. Here is the auspicious seat  made of Udumbara wood     for the installation ceremony. All kinds   of seeds and perfumes , gems  , honey  , curd, ghee , puffed rice , Durba , flowers, milk  , eight pretty maids , the elephant in rut , a luxurious chariot drawn by four horses, sword , good  bow  , Vehicle  accompanied  by men  resembling moon, umbrella, white fans , golden vessel  tied with golden ropes , a pale coloured bull , a good  strong horse with four teeth , throne, tiger skin , samith(sticks for fire sacrifice) , fire , all kinds of musical instruments , courtesans, well decorated woman, , priests , Brahmins, cows , sacred animals and birds , inhabitants of towns and villages  along with their societies  and merchants  , and many others  speaking sweet words  and also kings   who are here for Rama’s coronation.                                       14.34-14.41
Please with haste bring the king here since Rama has to be installed soon when there is Pushya Nakshatra.                                                                                                                                                   14.42
Hearing these words the great son of the charioteer , entered the palace praising  the tiger among the kings.                                                                                                                                                           14.43
The guards of the door being desirous of king’s  interests  were not competent  to  stop the old Sumanthra who was liked by the king  .                                                                                               14.44
Going nearer  the king but not knowing his state of mind , he started praising him in very complementary  pleasing words.                                                                                                         14.45
Then that charioteer entered the apartment of the king and  with folded hands showered praises on the king which were appropriate.                                                                                                               14.46
“Like the splendid ocean rises along with the rise of the Sun, be pleased to get up with a happy frame of mind .”                                                                                                                                                     14.47
“Just as Mathali , the charioteer  wakes up  Indra  , who is  the conqueror of  all  asuras at the present time, I also wake you up.”                                                                                                                  14.48
“Like Vedas along with Vedangas  wakes up the self born Brahma , in the same way I am awakening you now.”                                                                                                                                                      14.49
“Like the sun and moon support the life of all beings  of earth, in the same manner I am awakening you.”
                                                                                                                                                                   14.50
“Oh great king , clad in auspicious cloths suitable to the occasion, please get up like the sun coming out of the Meru mountain.”                                                                                                                       14.51
“Oh son of Kakustha clan, let the sun and the moon , shiva and Khubera , Varuna , Agni and also Indra bless you with prosperity.”                                                                                                                 14.52
“Oh great king the goddess night has passed by  . After acquainting yourself with  tasks which have been done so far , do whatever is necessary to the coronation of Rama.”                               14.53-14.54
All the citizens of your kingdom have arrived saluting you and the great sage Vasishta who is  a god like Brahmin  is waiting for you at the gate.”                                                                                           14.55
“Ok king quickly  give the order for the coronation of Rama. Like the cow without the keeper, the army without the commander , night without moon cows without bull,  would be the kingdom , if it does not see its king.”                                                                                                                                   14.56-14.57
The king hearing these meaningful and appeasing words , again was completely pervaded    with great  grief.                                                                                                                                                         14.58
That virtuous and glorious king  ,  with destroyed pleasure  and reddish eyes due to great sorrow  looked up to the charioteer   and said, “With words you are piercing my  important parts of the body.” 14.59
Having heard those words of sorrow  and having seen  the pitiable king , Sumanthra moved away from the place with folded hands.                                                                                                                       14.60
Due to his very miserable state the king could not  speak anything  but the very diplomatic Kaikeyi said to Sumanthra.                                                                                                                                               14.61
“Oh Sumanthra , excited by happiness due to the thought of Rama , the king could not sleep all  through the night and is very tired as he is very sleepy.”                                                                                   14.62
“And so oh charioteer, rush out and bring  illustrious prince Rama without any hesitation and delay. Please be safe.”                                                                                                                                           14.63
He thinking of that  auspicious event  felt happy  with the king’s order  and quickly went away. 14.64
Sumanthra  thought that summoned by Kaikeyi , Rama the follower of Dharma would definitely come here for the purpose of the crowning.                                                                                                   14.65
Deciding like this , that charioteer  with great joy came out of palace with an idea  of  going and meeting the great Rama.                                                                                                                                                14.66
Sumanthra having left the auspicious private apartment which was like an ocean , he saw ahead of him crowds of people thronging the entrance .                                                                                          14.67
Then immediately moving and  after reaching the entrance , he saw several kings standing at the door   and he also saw kings , wealthy people   and citizens  who had already  come and waiting there.  14.68

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

15.Sumanthra goes to Rama’s palace.

(Sumanthra is again sent back by the people in charge of arrangements to get final approval of the king. Dasaratha sends Sumanthra to bring Rama. Sumanthra goes to the crowded palace  of Rama.)

Those Brahmins who were expert in Vedas having stayed for the whole night , along with the priests of the king assembled near the place  where coronation  would take place.                                                 15.1
Ministers , chiefs of army , chiefs of merchant associations  had also assembled there with great joy for Rama’s coronation.                                                                                                                                            15.2
The chiefs of Brahmins had decided to celebrate  the coronation of Rama when the Sun becomes bright  in the Pushya star and when Karkidaga Lagna  , which was the Lagna of Rama  , is in ascendant.     15.3
Golden jars with water , a well decorated throne  with a tiger skin spread  on it  and a chariot were all shining .                                                                                                                                                              15.4
Sacred water from the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna, as also water from other sacred rivers , wells, lakes , ponds  and from rivers flowing east or west words  and from rivers which has joined together  , and those rivers flowing crookedly  and from all oceans had been brought.                           15.5-15.6
Gold and silver pots filled with excellent water ,together with popped grains covered by milky sappy leaves  along with lotuses and water lilies  were shining.                                                                    15.7
Honey, curds, ghee , puffed rice, Dhurbha , flowers , milk , Courtesans  with dignified  conduct and well ornamented  were all have been arranged.                                                                                            15.8
A great fan made with hairs of Yak,  made of gold and inlaid with various precious gems  , which resembled the diffused rays of the moon  was held in readiness for Rama.                                  15.9
A white majestic Umbrella resembling the full moon which  is to be used before the coronation was kept ready .                                                                                                                                                        15.10
A white bull was kept ready. A white horse and a white majestic elephant in rut , which were worthy of ridden by a great king was also got ready.                                                                                          15.11
Eight auspicious maids  decorated  with all types of ornaments, all sorts of musical instruments  and  poets who flatter     and others were waiting.                                                                                               15.12
All the articles which were arranged for the coronation of a prince belonging to the Ikshuvaku race  were also arranged for the coronation of the king’s son. All those people who were assembled there as per the order of the king  told, “Who will tell the king about our arrival?”                              15.13-15.14
“The sun has risen and we are not able to see the king  though all arrangements to  make Rama as Yuvaraja are kept ready.”                                                                                                                        15.15
When  great kings from all over were talking like this among themselves, Sumanthra who had met the king  said.                                                                                                                                                    15.16
“As per the orders of the king , I am going speedily to meet Rama. You are all honourable to the king and specially to Rama.”                                                                                                                                    15.17
“I shall ask  the king  on your behalf  his welfare , wish him long life and the reason for his not coming here.”                                                                                                                                                           15.18
That expert in  all things historic, after saying this entered the private apartments , which  remained closed always.                                                                                                                                            15.19
After having entered and after praising the king’s clan , he approached the bed room of the king and stood there.                                                                                                                                                  15.20
After entering near the bed room and  he stood behind the curtain, he praised the king Dasaratha     and also  told him the words of blessing.                                                                                                       15.21
“Oh king of Kakustha clan, may the sun and the moon, Shiva and Khubera , Varuna, fire God and Indra  bless you with victory,                                                                                                                                15.22
“The divine night has come to an end  and the auspicious day has arrived. Oh tiger like king, please wake up and attend to your other duties.”                                                                                                      15.23
“Oh member  of Raghu clan, oh king, several Brahmins, army commanders and merchants have arrived and are seeking your audience  and so please wake up.”                                                                   15.24
That king who woke up saw  Sumanthra , the minister and charioteer , and an expert in Manthras  and told him as follows.                                                                                                                                     15.25
“Oh Charioteer , you have been told by her to bring Rama speedily  and for what reason are  my orders not implemented?”                                                                                                                                    15.26
And Again the king Dasaratha ordered the charioteer, “I have not been  sleeping  and instantly go and   bring Rama.”                                                                                                                                                         15.27
After hearing the orders , respecting him with a bow of head , he again left the king’s residence , thinking himself about the coming auspicious event.                                                                        15.28
The  Charioteer saw the royal avenue well decorated by flags  and banners   and was greatly pleased by it.                                                                                                                                                                   15.29
That charioteer  over heard the conversation between all the well pleased assembled citizens  about the coronation of Rams.                                                                                                                                15.30
Then Sumanthra saw the palace of Rama  resembling the Kailasa peak  which in splendour resembled the residence of Devendra.                                                                                                                     15.31
Sumanthra saw the palace closed by two very great doors , shining with  hundreds of galleries , with idols of gold kept on its top  and  with decorations made of costly gems.  He saw it  like  the lustrous clouds of autumn  resembling the shining cave of Mount  Meru .It was decorated with  garlands of very precious stones and pearls  strewn  here and there with pearls    and being  decorated by sandal and aloe wood  itr was emitting fragrance like  the peak  of  Dardura mountains   and captivated all minds. The sarasa birds   and peacocks   added to its glitter by their sweet songs   and the palace was  well decorated  with well carved images  and other trimmings .  With its great splendour it captivated the eyes and minds     of all living beings , It was shining like the Sun and moon     and looked like the residence of Khubera   and was like the mirror image of the palace of Indra. It was populated by various  types of birds . And that Charioteer  saw the house of Rama  like the peak in Meru mountain. The villagers had come as crowds bringing gifts along with them  and were waiting impatiently to see the coronation. That palace of Rama which looked like  a great cloud  was well decorated  and filled    with variety of gems.   It was also crowded with hunchbacks and hunters.                                  15.32-15.40
That charioteer travelling in the chariot drawn by horses delighting the people and the royal clans  and all the people of the city reached the house   of Rama.                                                                     15.41 
Having reached there , That charioteer  was greatly thrilled  on seeing the magnificent  and  great riches of the  house of Rama  filled with peacocks and great beauty  and resembling the house of Indra . 15.42
The courtyards of  that house of Rama    was like Kailasa and  greatly decorated  and resembled the house   of devas  and being very close to Rama passed through several waiting friends and entered the private apartment of Rama.                                                                                                                     15.43
There  the charioteer  heard   all the people  who were  greatly delighted by the arrangements  made for the coronation of Rama  and talking  about the auspicious future  of the son of the king .      15.44
Sumanthra saw Rama’s  house which looked like the home of Indra  , filled with various animals and birds  and it looked like the peak of Meru mountain  and shining with light.                             15.45
Millions of people from the village  had arrived and having left the chariots were standing near the gate , giving salutations with folded hands and  they had also brought several gifts.                         15.46
There he also saw  a huge bodied royal elephant named Sathrunjaya  , resembling the great clouds surrounding the mountain , with flowing ichors from its temples  , standing without caring for the goad and waiting  for Rama   to climb on it .                                                                                             15.47
The important minister had already come there riding on  well decorates chariots,   horses   and elephants  but Sumanthra found his way    to Rama’s private apartment walking the crowds  on both sides of the road.                                                                                                                                 15.48
With its great towers  the house  looked like Mahendra mountain surrounded by motionless clouds  and it had very many rooms  and that charioteer entered it like a crocodile entering the sea   which was blessed with different type of precious stones.                                                                            15.49

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

16.Rama goes to meet Dasaratha

(Sumanthra informs Rama that  his ather and queen Kaikeyi want to see him. With great expectations  he takes leave from Sita and goes in Sumanthra ‘s chariot. Lakshmana also travels with him. The people  express their expectation from Rama and their  great admiration. Rama reaches the palace of Dasaratha.)

Sumanthra who was conversant with epics  having  entered   through the door , which was crowded   with lot of peoples  reached the sparsely populated courtyard  which was being guarded   with alertness, attentive  young men who were devoted to king  and who were wearing shining ear studs .     16.1-16.2
There he also saw well ornamented old people wearing ochre robes , holding a staff in their hands  and  appointed to guard  the entrances of  the apartments of  ladies .                                                      16.3
On seeing him all those guards who were interested in the welfare  of Rama , with great haste  stood from their seats.                                                                                                                                         16.4
That humble minded son of the charioteer   courteously informed them, “ Please tell Rama quickly that Sumanthra is waiting at the entrance.”                                                                                                  16.5
They who were always interested in doing good to the master   , went and met Rama who was in the company of Sita  and informed him accordingly.                                                                                 16.6
When Rama was informed by them   that the charioteer who was a close friend of his father has arrived , he ordered  them to bring him  inside so that  he himself will have the pleasure  of seeing him.  16.7
That charioteer  saw Rama who was resembling the god of wealth, completely decorated  sitting on a richly covered golden seat. He was well adorned and anointed with red   perfumed sandal paste resembling in colour the  red blood of  a boar  . With Sita by his side fanning  him  with a fan of yak tails in her hand he resembled the moon along with the star Chithra.                                             16.8-16.10
Sumanthra well known for his humility and modesty  saluted Rama who had natural luster   like the sun , the giver of boons.                                                                                                                                       16.11
Sumanthra who is honoured by  Dasaratha   having seen the son of a king with pleasant looks sitting on  an easy chair   with saluting hands said.                                                                                                16.12
“Oh great son of Kausalya, your father along with queen Kaikeyi wants to see you  and  so  please go there without any delay.  “                                                                                                                         16.13
When thus spoken the lustrous lion among men was greatly pleased  and after  honouring Sumanthra told  Sita,                                                                                                                                                      16.14
“It is certain that the king and queen after meeting and discussing about the coronation , are thinking about some important aspect.”                                                                                                              16.15   
“Having an opinion , that dark eyed , skilled queen  who is interested in  general welfare , is urging the king in my favour.”                                                                                                                                    16.16
“My mother , who is the daughter of the king of Kekaya , who follows the wishes of the king  perhaps wants to do something in my interest. “                                                                                             16.17
“It is fortunate that the king and his dear wife who is the queen , has sent Sumanthra     who desires  my earning of Artha   and Kama   as their messenger.”                                                                         16.18
“As per the opinion of the council , a befitting messenger has arrived  and it is certain that the king will consecrate me as Yuvaraja today.”                                                                                                     16.19
“Sure , I will    go to   the king immediately from here, meanwhile   you  entertain yourself along with the attendants.”                                                                                                                                             16.20
That  black eyed  Sita, greatly recognized by her husband thinking over the coming auspicious events, followed him up to the entrance.                                                                                                        16.21
“The king will give you the kingdom served by Brahmins , who are worthy  of helping one to conduct Rajasuya sacrifice , Like Lord Brahma gave the deva loka to Indra,.”                                         16.22
“ I would like to see   you observing the rituals ,  after completing the penance , wearing the excellent purified  deer skin  and carrying the horns of antelope.”                                                             16.23
“Let Indra protect you from east, Yama protect you from south , Varuna protect you from west and Khubera protect you from north.”                                                                                                   16.24 
After taking leave from Sita, wearing auspicious ornaments , Rama left the palace along with
Sumanthra.                                                                                                                                           16.25
Having come out of the palace like a lion coming out of the mountain cave  Rama, saw Lakshmana standing at the entrance  who bowed and saluted him.                                                            16.26
Then that son of the king who was tiger among the men  met his friends in the middle courtyard . He approached  and greeted all of them who were interested in seeing him  and later he clad  in a tiger skin and resembling a fire entered the chariot.                                                                          16.27-16.28
That Rama  whose brilliance matched the thousand eyed Indra  ,  mounted in to that spacious and well harnessed  chariot decorated  with gold and precious gems , which was dazzling the eye due to its great luster equal to that of the sun, drawn by excellent  swift  moving horses which looked  like young  elephants  and which was moving creating sound like thunder and sped  away swiftly. 16.29-16.30
That chariot moved making sounds like thunder  like a dark rich   cloud  emerged from the house like moon emerging from behind the cloud .                                                                                               16.31
Lakshmana the younger brother of Rama holding in his hands   a fan  and an umbrella  mounted at the rear of the chariot to guard his brother.                                                                                                 16.32
Then from the multitude of people  who were gathered   the sound of  applauds    emanated . 16.33
Chiefs of soldiers in hundreds and thousands riding on best horses and mountain like elephants followed him.                                                                                                                                                               16.34
Well prepared heroic  men  applying sandal and agaru in their bodies  holding swords and bows, greeting  Rama went  ahead  of him .                                                                                                   16.35
Then on the way  musical instruments were played and poems flattering him      were being sung by poets  along with  lion like roaring  by warriors.                                                                                 16.36
Well dressed women standing on balconies of their houses  all the way showered  heaps of flowers from all sides  on the tamer of his enemies.                                                                                              16.37
Women with faultless body standing on the top of the houses as well as on the ground  were praising Rama  with sweet words aiming to please  him.                                                                               16.38
“Oh Rama who gives joy to his mother , since you have got the kingdom of your father , you must be seeing that your mother is greatly delighted . “                                                                               16.39
Those women  considered Sita as  more greater than all women, because she was dear to the heart of  Rama.                                                                                                                                                     16.40
“ There is no doubt that , Sita like, Rohini  joining  with  moon ,was united with Rama , because of the great penance done by her formerly.”                                                                                              16.41
When the great man Rama was going through   the royal avenue  heard the conversation between woman  standing on the top of their homes.                                                                      16.42-16.43
Then that Rama heard   the words of admiration  , from those very  happy citizens  concerning himself using different words.                                                                                                                     16.44
“Due to the grace of the king Rama is going to receive this kingdom and its wealth. . Because he is going to protect us , all  our desires would be fulfilled.”                                                                   16.45
“If Rama looks after our kingdom for a long time  it will bring benefit for all the people. If he looks after us , nothing that we do not like will happen and there would be no sorrow.”                 16.46
Rama proceeded   further like Khubera  and  was preceded by  elephants and horses  and his praise was sung about by great poets , while very sweet music was also being played.                    16.47
Rama thronged by he and she elephants  as well as horses  and the  road junctions  were filled with great number of people . The highway  which looked splendid  was also filled  lot of merchandise    and lot of gems for sale .                                                                                                                   16.48

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

17.The  scenes on Rama’s way to Dasaratha ’s palace

(Here a very detailed description  of the way to Dasaratha’ s palace   as well various people    on the  way is described.)

That Rama sitting on the chariot surrounded by friends  who were  filled with joy  saw the city decorated with banners and flags  and made  perfumed by burning of Sandal and Agaru  and crowded by people of all types.                                                                                                                                                             17.1  
Rama drove in the middle of the street , which was made scented by  agaru and incense  and with white buildings  resembling cloud on both sides .                                                                                                17.2
He entered the  excellent royal highway  made fragrant by heaping of Sandal and pre eminent  Agaru on both sides as well as pure white silk, white pearls without holes and several excellent articles  made of crystals . It was very spacious , strewn with  different  type of flowers  and food articles of all types were available on either sides.                                                                                                                        17.3-17.5
Rama saw  the royal  avenue looked like the avenues  of God in heaven   and  the broad   areas covered by cross roads  were worshipped with  curds , parched grains , sacrificial libations  , rice coated with  turmeric  , fragrant substances like sandal  and agaru .                                                                         17.6
He heard many blessings , said by his friends   and after honouring  each   according to their rank   , he travelled further.                                                                                                                                          17.7
“After being consecrated  today , you follow the path  for ruling followed by grandfather and great grandfather .”                                                                                                                                              17.8
“When Rama becomes the king, he will rule us better than his father    and grandfather   and we would live  with great happiness.”                                                                                                                       17.9
“If we are going to be able to see consecrated as the  king today , then  we can live  devoid of food,  because  there would be nothing more to be accomplished in this life.”                                     17.10
“For us nothing  greater  need to  be achieved  than the coronation  of the greatly lustrous Rama   as a king.”                                                                                                                                                          17.11
Hearing  all  these  words praising him  told by his friends  as well as other auspicious dialogues , Rama  remained listless as they further  proceeded on the royal avenue.                                               17.12
Though Rama has crossed them and gone ahead , no one was able to no one was able to remove his image from their eyes or mind.                                                                                                            17.13
They thought that if a person does not see Rama or Rama does not see him,  will be found fault by all the   worlds  besides he will blame himself.                                                                                       17.14
The best among those who follow Dharma  would show mercy to all  the four Varnas(caste groups), for that reason all of them devoted him.                                                                                                 17.15
The son of the king  crossed intersections of two roads, roads leading  to  the temples , religious structures  and temples   and he crossed them on the right   and proceeded.                          17.16
That  prince reached the family house of the king  which resembled  the  dazzling  home of Indra  in this earth in its royal splendour, with its various peaks  similar   to the  cluster of clouds, white peaks of auspicious Kailasa  and like the air planes decorated by gems which covered the entire sky.17.17-17.19
The great man Rama crossed the first three courtyards  ,  which were protected by the archers , riding on horses and  crossed the remaining two courtyards by foot .                                                     17.20
Rama  , the son of Dasaratha   after passing through the  courtyards  sent back  all his followers and entered  the private quarters  of the king.                                                                                         17.21
When the prince went to his father’s presence   all the people were happy   and started waiting  like the lord of waters waiting for the appearance of moon  and were waiting for his moon like rise.  17.22

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

18. Kaikeyi tells about her demands

(Rama finds Dasaratha as sorrowing and greatly upset. He did not speak to him. When he asked Kaikeyi about it, she tells about the background and informs    about her demands. Rama  agrees to them)

Rama saw his father  reclining on the auspicious  seat  with Kaikeyi and had a dry  face and pathetic look.                                                                                                                                                                       18.1
He with a well composed mind , after first saluting the feet of father with great humility , he saluted his mother Kaikeyi’ s feet .                                                                                                                                        18.2
Dasaratha with eyes full of tears said “Rama”  and the king was not able to look at him or say anything further.                                                                                                                                                                   18.3
Having seen very rarely  this appearance of his father, Rama was scared as if he has  stamped a serpent .
                                                                                                                                                                                 18.4
The king  with  senses devoid of pleasure , emaciated because of sorrow  and grief,  with an agitated and upset mind  was taking tortured breaths . He was like a ocean full of agitated and beating waves , like a sun caught in an eclipse, like a sage who has told a lie and was without luster and Rama was scared to see him like that.                                                                                                                                    18.5-18.6
After worried thinking about the reason for the sorrow of the king , Rama became agitated like a ocean  during  the full moon.                                                                                                                                     18.7
Then that Rama thought over  about  his father to whom he was devoted and thought, “Why is my father not replying to my greetings today like  all other days.”                                                            18.8
“At other times on seeing me  , my father even though  angry used  to get calmed down  but today even after seeing me , why is it that he is sad?”                                                                                               18.9
Depressed and extremely sad Rama with a face of diminished luster  , after saluting Kaikeyi asked  her.
                                                                                                                                                                       18.10
“Without intention have I committed   an offence? Why is my father angry with me? Please tell and show kindness to me.  “                                                                                                                           18.11
“ Why does he  who is  always with love to me , today   dejected? Today he is  with a pale face  and depressed look. Why is he not speaking to me?”                                                                              18.12
“Is his mind or body sick?  Does some great distress trouble him? Surely one cannot always have pleasures.”                                                                                                                                                18.13
“Has some misfortune befallen on  the lovely  Bharatha or the very powerful Shatrugna  or  to any of my mothers?  I hope not.”                                                                                                        18.14
“If the great king    is not happy with me for not obeying his words, I do not want to live even for a second.”                                                                                                                                                   18.15
“For a man , if his father who is his root of origin and who is his  God is existing, how else can he conduct himself?”                                                                                                                                                 18.16
“Did you speak  harsh  words  to him out of  wounding of self respect or due to anger, which has upset his mind?”                                                                                                                                               18.17
“Oh great lady, I am asking you repeatedly  the reason for this negative emotion of the king, which has never happened .Please tell me the reason.”                                                                                  18.18
When the great Rama asked like this to Kaikeyi , then she replied without shame and with evil intentions in mind.                                                                                                                                                  18.19
“Oh Rama, the king is not angry and he does not suffer from any sorrow but he is hesitating to talk to you  some matter existing in his mind, due to his fear of you.”                                                 18.20
‘He is not able to speak something which is not liked by you , due to his great love to you and so you should fulfill the promise that he has given to me.”                                                                   18.21
“Earlier he  had honoured me by giving two boons and now like a common man  he is repenting for giving them to  me.”                                                                                                                        18.22
“The king after saying , “I  shall give you two boons” , now desires to construct a dam , after  the water has flown away.”                                                                                                                             18.23
“Oh Rama , truth is the corner stone of Dharma and virtuous people agree to this and so you act so that the king does not sacrifice the truth   due to anger.”                                                              18.24
“I shall tell you  everything , if you tell me that “I would obey  the what the king says , whether it is auspicious or inauspicious.”                                                                                                          18.25
“If you promise me that whatever the king tells you,  will not go in vain  , I shall tell it to you as the king is not willing to tell it to you.”                                                                                                           18.26
Hearing the words uttered by Kaikeyi Rama was greatly depressed  and he told the great lady in presence of the king.                                                                                                                     18.27
“Oh great lady, what a pity , such words   from you are not fit to be told, because  on hearing the words of the king I would jump into the  fire or even    consume strong poison or get drowned in the ocean   as he is my worshipful father who would desire  only good to me.”                                                  18.28-18.29
“Because of that Oh great lady, please tell me in  words  the desire of the king. I,  Rama am promising and Rama never   repeats anything twice.”                                                                                                 18.30
Kaikeyi with sincerity  told  Rama , who is the votary of truth  these very  cruel words  which are not fit to be told   by a lady.                                                                                                                                       18.31
“Oh Rama, earlier in a great war between devas and asuras when your father was wounded I saved him and he promised   me  two boons.”                                                                                                             18.32
“Using those two boons , I requested the king to perform the coronation of Bharatha   and  your  departure  to Dandakaranya forest  today itself.”                                                                                    18.33
“Oh best among men, if you and your father want to protect the oath , then please hear my words. “
                                                                                                                                                                           18.34
“As per the oath of your father, which you have heard  , you enter the forest for fourteen years.” 18.35
“Bharatha would be consecrated with the  preparations made  by the king  for your coronation.”   18.36
“You occupy the Dandakaranya(punishing forest)   for fourteen years  after sacrificing your coronation and wearing  matted hair and cloths of bark.”                                                                                             18.37  
“Bharatha will stay in the capital of Kosala country (Ayodhya)  which is blessed with various types of gems  and horses, chariots and elephants  and rule this earth.”                                                            18.38
“For that reason the king greatly under the control of  mercy  has face  showing sorrow  and is not competent even to see you.”                                                                                                                       18.39
“Oh son of the Raghu clan,  carry out these words of the king  and see to it that your adheres  to truth  and liberate him.”                                                                                                                                            18.40
After hearing these  words which hurt, Rama never felt any sorrow  but the king was greatly pained  to see the calamity which fell on his son.
                                                                                                                                                                           
This is the end of the eighteenth chapter  Of  the book Ayodhya   of the holy Ramayana   composed by Valmiki  as the  first epic.











 





























  

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