RAMA’S FAST
Dasaratha next sought saint Vasishtha. He said to him, “May it please your Reverence to go to Rama’s palace. It is important that he and his wife observe the fasts and vows. Only the fasts and vows can ensure Rama wealth, health and a happy reign. Please go and see them observe the fasts and vows.”
“I go, your majesty” replied the sage Vasishtha. Vasishtha was an ultimate authority in the knowledge of vows, fasts, penances and potent spells. He went to Rama’s palace on a stately chariot. Rama heard him coming. And he approached Vasishtha in all reverent haste. He lent him his arm to aid Vasishtha to descend from his chariot. Rama touched his holy feet with his head. “Rama! You have found high favour in your father’s eyes. So it is necessary that you and your wife spend the night in fast and meditation.” He next ordained the fast and prayer by rule and text. And then he took leave of the prince.
Rama remained yet a while in sweet converse with his friends. Then he bade them good-bye and retired to his apartments. He found them gay and bright with men and maids happily busy with preparations for tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Vasishtha rode out from Rama’s palace through the royal streets. They were teeming with happy crowds in busy converse. The gentle breeze wafted the welcome sound to distant ears. The town wore a gay look that night. Streets and by-ways were swept and cleaned and watered. The houses were decked with flags and banners. The gates were hidden beneath clusters of plantains, mango leaves and palm fruits. Men and women, rich and poor, high and low, waited expectant for the happy dawn. They wanted to rejoice in the sight of their beloved Rama crowned as king. Vasishtha took his way leisurely through the gay crowds. He passed up the stairs to where sat the expectant monarch. The whole audience rose as one man to accord reverend welcome to the saint. “Has Rama been duly instructed in his holy task for the night” questioned the fond king. To which the sage made reply, “Yea, my liege, even as you desired.”
The king craved permission of his chaplain to retire for the night. He dismissed his audience and sought the privacy of his apartments.
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