RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 16, SECOND PART

          RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 16, SECOND PART

Seeta stood upon a higher level than Rama. Rama spent months in the womb of his mother. But it was not the case with Seeta. She rose to view at the end of a ploughshare. It was when Janaka prepared the ground for a holy sacrificial rite. So Raghava respected her very much. Rama had cast round her shoulders a rare necklace. He had touched her feet in sweet entreaty and persuaded her to spend some time in his absence. Now Seeta cast love-laden looks. Her home was ever in the heart of Rama. And she followed him as far as etiquette allowed. She called upon Rama’s beloved head every blessing she could think of. “I pray that no evil eye rest upon all this boundless beauty and loveliness. May Gods keep away from my lord every harm and evil. May His Majesty place you on the throne and crown you in all pomp. It should be like the Demiurge placed the crown of the three worlds on Indra’s head. I long to see you in sacrificial attire! You would take your initiatory vow. You would be rubbed with holy butter on your limbs. They would put a deerskin around your shoulders. And they would also give you a deer horn. If ever Vasishtha ordained any vow or observance, you would mortify yourself fourfold. If your teacher told you that you should not allow a woman to touch you, you would bathe if my skirt brushes you lightly. May Indra watch over you in the East. May Yama watch over you in the South. May Varuna watch over you in the West. And may Kubera watch over you in the North.”

Rama took leave of Sita. He completed the preliminaries to his coronation. He came out of his seraglio with Sumantra. It was like a noble lion coming out of its rocky lair. Lakshmana awaited them at the gates. In the central hall, Rama came upon his friends and gave them his kind looks and fair greetings. Then he got on the chariot of pure silver. The chariot was very bright and commodious. The chariot was richly wrought in gem and gold. It blinded the eye of the noonday sun! Rare tiger-skins covered the seats. Horses of the purest breed were yoked to the chariot. And the noise of the wheels was like the rumbling of clouds. Raghava sprang upon it. He drove the chariot to his father’s mansion. The sight was like Indra in his car drawn by the green horses! Like the roaring distant thunder among the hills, Rama’s chariot rolled. Like the Lord of Night springing from the Rising mountain, Rama proceeded on his way. His other self, Lakshmana guarded his back. He held in one hand the umbrella of state and the Chamara in the other. The assembled people raised a shout of joy. The shout rent the very skies. Crowds followed Rama upon fleet horses, camels, elephants, and chariots. Bands of chosen veterans marched before him. Their only care was Rama’s safety. There were sweet strains of martial music. The bards and heralds sang their plaudits. There were war-cries of the chosen veterans. They all rose upon the air in pleasant confusion. Rama marched along the royal road. Countless ladies were in costly attire. They scattered fragrant flowers upon their beloved prince. And they extolled him high in the joy of their hearts.” Enhancer of Kausalya’s delight! Proceed to take the reigns of this fortunate Kosala. Your mother’s heart will swell to see you seated on the throne. Again there is none that fortune holds so dear as our Sita. She must have laid up merits in her past lives to raise her to the rank of your wife. She is like Rohini ever inseparable from the Moon.” Thus many dames and matrons spoke. And Rama loved them all for their sweet and whole-hearted devotion.

The crowds spoke in high praise of Rama; “Rama is the gem of his glorious line. He richly deserves the love and esteem of Dasaratha. Our hopes are going to be realised. Rama is going to be crowned. It is the greatest good that can ever come our way. When Rama becomes our King, we will not know what it is to want or grieve.” Rama heard them all. And he resolved to deserve better their love and confidence. He drove through huge squares dense with bulls, elephants and cows, horses and cars. Sweet strains of festive music mingled with the joyful neighs of horses. The trumpeting of elephants and the solemn benedictive chants of Brahmanas mingled together. So he drove along the royal road, even as the Guardian of Riches, toward his father’s palace.          

  

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 16, FIRST PART

           RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 16—FIRST PART

                                                             RAMA GOES TO HIS FATHER

Sumantra went through the gates of the seraglio. It was crowded with expectant people. Sumantra entered another suit of apartments. It was comparatively quiet. There he found many armed youths richly dressed and watching over Rama. There were wardens of the women’s apartments. They were venerable old men past the age of ninety-five. The whole world reposed in security under the shadow of Rama’s bow. And Rama was sleeping. He was under the shadow of the light wands. The wands were held in the trembling hands of these ancients. They were clothed in gems and gold. It was only to please Rama. They loved him more than his own father, Dasaratha. Every time Rama returned from the palace, they laid him on their laps and caressed him. They would smell his head in affection. They would not part with Rama until they were assured of his happiness. Scents and perfums adorned the lovely form of Rama. They left their mark upon the bodies of these elders. They knew that Sumantra was Rama’s favourite. So they rose in respectful haste to welcome him. Sumantra went around them in reverence and spoke to them. “May I request you to inform Rama that Sumantra waits upon his pleasure?” Rama was in conversation with Seeta when the news was brought to him. He knew Sumantra was a counselor and intimate friend of his father. He ordered Sumantra to be brought to his presence at once. Sumantra advanced to where Rama sat. Rama was the master of boundless wealth even as Kubera. The Guardian of the North bestowed on him everything his followers might pray for. Sumantra was granted the privilege of beholding the supreme beauty of Rama’s form. He was absorbed in meditation upon Narayana. His palms were joined in humble reverence. Graceful garlands adorned his shoulders. Sumantra beheld Sree Rama. Ah! What merit did he lay up in past lives! Sumantra was blessed to behold Rama. He saw Rama exactly as he is described under the mystic symbology of Paryanka Vidya in the Kaushitaki Upanishad. Sandal paste prepared with saffron paint adorned his shapely hands and breast. Sita stood by, fanning him softly with the moon-white Chamara. Sumantra beheld him and was rewarded with a clearer vision. The Supreme Person shone like a sun of limitless radiance. Sumantra prostrated himself before the Deity of his heart. He folded his palms on his head and made respectful enquries. “Fair fruit of Kausalya’s glorious past! Your father desires your presence. Kaikeyi also wants to see you. You are expected there soon.” Sumantra spoke thus.

Rama expressed his pleasure the news gave him. He turned to Seeta and said, “Seeta! I think my father and mother have a new plan in relation to the coronation ceremony. The King thinks it will not do to wait till Bharata’s return. Father might plead the weight of his age and infirmities. Kaikeyi’s sharp intellect might urge the king to hurry on the arrangements for his investiture. She would do much to advance the peoples’ welfare and happiness. My interest and advancement are ever nearest her heart. Hence I am sure that my consecration may be put forward considerably. It is nice of them to have chosen Sumantra as their messenger. Sumantra holds his very life to serve me. The attendants of the women’s apartments are interested in my coronation. But even more ambitious is this aged emissary. My father will crown me heir-apparent before the day is over. Hence I go to hear my father’s commands. Rest here, Seeta, in comfort. Amuse yourself with your friends and people.”     

  

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN---AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 15

                         RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 15

                                                                 RAMA SENT FOR

Brahmanas, court chaplains, ministers, generals, and civic authorities gathered in the audience hall of the king. They were beside themselves with joy. For the coronation ceremony was approaching fast. Vivasvan is the sun-god. He looked down at the assembled crowds. Pushya is the star of the day. It shone brightly as it abode with Cancer. There would be the consecration bath. For this purpose, the holy waters were gathered in vessels of gold. Sacred confluences like the Prayaga; the Godawari, the Cauvery mingled with the eastern seas; the Gandaki, the Sona, the Bhadra; Brahmavarta and Rudravarta in the Naimisa forest and other springs, lakes, wells, pools and rivulets; the ocean and the seas—all contributed their quota. There was a splendid throne; a chariot spread with tiger-skins; vessels of gold and silver, curious-shaped, in which floated fried rice, lotus leaves and milky juice of the Asvattha and the Udumbara tree; honey, curds, clarified butter, fried rice, holy grass, flowers and milk; well-bred courtesans gaily adorned; chowries with shafts of gold encrusted with gems; the silky fleece; the umbrella of state spread overhead in moon-white lustre; a lordly bull and horse; an elephant in rut, as bore kings and monarchs; eight damsels of auspicious features, blazing with gold and gems; the four kinds of musical instruments, bards, minstrels, panegyrists and heralds; and other articles used in the coronation-rite of the Ikshvaku princes were kept in readiness. The officers of the king assembled at the palace-gates and discussed the unusual delay of their master. “Whom shall we commission to report our arrival to His Majesty? He is late in coming. The sun ascends the steps to his golden throne. The sun brings us nearer to the auspicious moment fixed for Rama’s installation.” Thus they spoke. Sumantra addressed the rulers and princes. He said, “The King has commanded to bring Rama to his presence. The emperor and Rama hold you all in high esteem. Hence, I will even go back to my royal master and make enquiries on your behalf. I will ascertain why he delays so long. He must give audience to his good friends and loving subjects.”

And Sumantra retraced his steps towards the women’s apartments. He invoked the blessings of the gods on his master’s head. Dasaratha recognised the voice of his friend. He said “Sumantra! You were commissioned by Kaikeyi to bring Rama here. Go and fetch Rama.”

Sumantra bowed and left the harem. He took his way through the broad streets. The streets were gay with flags and pennons. Groups of people in the roads and squares held a joyous talk. Rama’s palace rose in view. Large gates of curious workmanship adorned it. Tiny kiosks dotted the extensive grounds. There statues of gold gleamed through garlands of gems and pearls. It burst upon the eye in dazzling splendour and beauty. It looked like the lofty peak of the Dardara. Gems and pearls, scents and perfumes and all things rare and lovely were laid there. The cries of swans, peacocks, herons and parrots came aloft the melodious breeze. Rare paintings covered the walls. Its brightness dazed the senses and the eye. It looked like the palace of the Lord of Riches. The palaces of the Lord of Day and Night paled in insignificance. The mansion of the Lord of Riches or the palace of the Lord of the Immortals or the cloud-capped summit of the Meru could not have been richer in comparison. Strange birds and beasts chirped and moved behind bars of steel and gold. Visitors from foreign lands thronged the grounds in joyful expectation. They were bearing costly gifts. Hunchbacks and dwarfs of the Kirata class moved about like black oases in a bank of fleecy clouds. Sumantra went through the happy throngs to the interior. There he came upon a large band of men. They had devoted their lives to the service of Rama. They watched over him in sleepless vigilance. They too were discussing the one topic of the day. Sumantra crossed many halls, squares and courts before he came near the women’s apartments. Groups of men were waiting there before the gates with costly gifts. There was Satrunjaya. It was the favourite elephant of Rama. Rama’s favourite ministers were there on elephants, horses and chariots. They made respectful way for Sumantra. He passed on unhindered to the inner apartments. It was like a miniature city graced with stately buildings. That resembled the huge clouds that rest on mountain peaks!

  

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 14 PART THREE

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 14, PART THREE

Sumantara continued; “The Lord of Waters overflows with joy. This happens when he sees his friends, the Sun and the Moon, rise on the horizon. Please, you may rise and gladden our hearts. Matali is the charioteer of Indra. He lauded his master, Indra. And he inspired Indra with joy and energy to triumph over Danavas; even so do I venture to sing your praises. Let me thus rouse you to joy and victory. The Vedas and Vedangas, Sciences and Arts rouse Brahma to his duties. And I announce to your Majesty the dawn of a new day. You have to attend to your duties. The Sun and the Moon gently break upon the slumbers of the tired Earth; even so do I call you back from the realms of sweet sleep. May it please your Majesty to come forth. Please come forth in gorgeous dress befitting the occasion of Rama’s coronation. Sail into our horizon in all your glory and splendour. You should come as the Sun over the golden mount Meru. May the Sun, the Moon, Siva, Kubera, Varuna, Agni, Indra and the other Lords crown your arms with success! The happy night has come to an end. It has ushered in the happier day. All beings will rejoice to see Rama adorned in the crown. For the crown of the Ikshvakus is unique. Your commands have been carried out to the letter. And it behoves you to brighten us with your presence. Everything is ready towards the coronation rite. Citizens, provincials, merchants, Brahmanas and all others await your presence. And I came to announce the saintly Vasishtha. I pray you to give assent for the starting of the function. Your people yearn for your presence.” Sumantra sang eagerly to please his Monarch. But his words fell like the drops of molten lead on Dasaratha’s heart. The righteous king was a pitiable sight. His eyes were swollen and red with weeping. “Sumantra! Your words lacerate my heart. It has been already tortured beyond words.” Dasaratha cried plaintively in answer to Sumantra’s words.

Sumantra stood aghast. He saw the wan face of his friend and master. He bowed with reverence. He withdrew in silence. But Kaikeyi was furious with Dasaratha. She had thought Dasaratha would order Rama into his presence. She called back Sumantra. “Sumantra, His Majesty has passed a sleepless night talking over the happy event of coronation. He was sleeping even as you came in. You go to Rama’s place and bring him here as soon as possible.” But Sumantra replied respectfully. “But I cannot go without the King’s order.” Then Dasaratha spoke. He said, “Sumantra, I will see Rama as soon as I can. Fetch him here!” Sumantra was beside himself with joy. How fortunate he was to serve as a messenger to Rama! He hurried on towards the mansion of the prince. He emerged from the place of Dasaratha. And he found himself in the midst of many groups of kings. They all were bearing costly and rare presents for the Monarch!      

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN, AYODHYAKANDA, CHAPTER 14--SECOND PART

            RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 14, PART TWO

The moon and the stars paled. They paled in sorrow to hear the old king’s lamentations. In a way, it was a happy night. The old king was wounded to the heart; despite that, he kept thinking of Rama. Kaikeyi changed her tactics and turned upon the king with fury. “Your words cause me unendurable agony. Send for Rama this moment. Place my son on the throne. Banish Rama to the woods. And thus keep your sworn words to me.” Dasaratha writhed beneath the cruel words and cried, “The bonds of Dharma crush my heart. And I must keep my word to this she-devil. Alas! My senses desert me. I don’t know what to do. Yet, I would see my Rama once again.”

The day broke. The sun beamed on his children. The auspicious hour fixed for Rama’s coronation drew near. The saintly Vasishtha entered the city. His disciples came after him. They were ready with everything for the solemn rite. The roads were neatly swept. They were watered and strewn with a thick layer of flowers. Bright flags and lofty banners waved from every house. Garlands and arches spanned the streets. The stores and shops were invitingly open. They were rich with rare products of nature and art. Groups of happy men and women were seen everywhere. They were eagerly discussing the absorbing subject. Rare and costly perfumes rolled in heavy waves in the morning breeze. The sage had his bath in the holy Sarayu. He said his prayers. Now he started towards the palace. The fair city cast into the shade the capital of Indra. Brahmanas, citizens, provincials, and experts in sacrificial lore awaited the presence of Dhasaratha. The sage left them behind and reached the seraglio. He saw the charioteer, Sumantra, coming out of it. Vasishtha stopped the king’s confidential adviser. “I leave it to you to announce my presence here to his Majesty,” Vasishtha said to Sumantra. He further said, “Vessels of gold filled with the water of the Ocean and Ganga’s sin-cleansing water are ready. A beautifully-carved seat of Udumbara wood is ready. All kinds of seed, perfumes, gems, honey, curds, clarified butter, fried rice, holy grass, flowers, milk, eight winsome damsels, an elephant, a chariot, a magnificent sword, a bow, palanquins, a white umbrella, a gold vase inlaid with precious stones, a bull of spotless garlands of gold, a noble lion with four fangs, a horse of immense strength, a throne spread with a tiger-skin, sacrificial fire, instrumental music, courtesans, priests, Brahmanas, cows, sacred animals and birds—all are ready for Rama’s coronation. Citizens, provincials, heads of clans, the crafts and guilds with their Masters, royal visitors and the common folk are present. They all call down sweet blessings on the head of Rama. They look forward to the happy moment of his coronation. The day has begun. And Rama is to be consecrated to his high office. Go, hasten his Majesty.” Sumantra returned to seraglio. He sang aloud the praises of the king. He was a very dear friend to Dasaratha. Sumantra was old in years and virtue.  He had free access to the women’s apartments. He was utterly ignorant of his Master’s misery. He drew the curtains. His palms were joined. He began to sing the praises of his lord and master.     

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 14, PART ONE

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 14—PART ONE

                                                                    KAIKEYI’S TRIUMPH

The pitiful sight of her lord and husband did not have the slightest impression on Kaikeyi’s sinful heart. It was nothing to her that Dasaratha was a mighty emperor. He was also the head of Ikshvaku clan counted for nothing. She never wavered from her purpose. But she struck at him again and again. “You are a fine king!” she sneered at him. “You are profuse in your promises. And now you hold back. You are a pitiful sinner to truth and virtue. I cannot think of any reason as to why you roll on the ground. You were not called upon to make a great and sudden sacrifice. Let me tell you this; bear in your mind that you have to keep your promise to the letter. I do ask you to honour your promise. King Sibi is your noble ancestor. He once passed his word to a vulture. He gave his own flesh for it to feed upon. And thus Sibi won the World of Light. Alarka was a royal sage. He promised to a Brahmana to grant him anything he might ask for. The strange petitioner asked for the eyes of Alarka. And Alarka gladly gave his eyes to the Brahmana. It was to keep his word. The Lord of the ocean could easily break his promise. But he would never dream of it. The Supreme Brahman is the goal of all aspirations. He knows there is nothing higher than Truth. Dharma flourishes in the rich soil of Truth. Don’t you think you are one of such great Beings? The eternal Vedas teach nothing higher than Truth. It is the surest means to realize our farthest hopes. And if you are earnest to uphold dharma, hold fast to Truth. Is it not your proud boast that none sought your grace in vain? Then, let not my boons go to waste. Banish Rama to the woods. And thus earn more righteous fame. Grant my earnest prayer. Once, twice and thrice I warn you. If you do not heed my request, you will be doused with my blood!”

Thus Kaikeyi goaded him on. She was now surer of her triumph. “Bali was an Asura. He struggled to cast off the noose thrown round him by Lord Vishnu. Vishnu had come down on earth as Upendra. He was helpless and he groped as a blind man. His pride as a king belonging to Ikshvaku came to his rescue. With a great effort, he became calm and put on a bold front. He cried, ‘Sinful wretch! Let me fling away the hand that grasped in holy wedlock. I put away the wicked offspring of that marriage!’ he said.” Kaikeyi was sermonizing to Dasaratha.  The Night came to an end and soon it was daybreak. “The sages and the Brahmanas are at my doors,” said a careless Kaikeyi. “They will want to hasten you for the coronation of Rama. It is a very congenial piece of work to do. You will not hesitate to crown your Rama. You can utilize the very materials brought together for the coronation of Rama to perform my funeral obsequies!”   

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN --AYODHYAKANDA --CHAPTER 13

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN, AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 13

What had Dasaratha done to deserve such a fate? He lay stretched on the bare earth. It was like the emperor Yayati whom the gods hurled down to the earth! But, Kaikeyi, Sin incarnate, was furious at the delay. She snapped her fingers at the monarch. “Ideal monarch! You brag loudly about your strict adherence to Truth. You never go back upon your word. But you would be my debtor for you have granted me two boons!”

It took some time for Dasaratha to recover from the shock. He turned upon her with wild fury. He cried at Kaikeyi, “You mean wretch! My tireless foe! You want to drink my heart’s blood. You want my Rama to live with savage beasts? You bent yourself to a foolish woman’s whim. You bartered away the life of my Rama for a fickle-minded swain? What put you up to perpetuate such wickedness? Where shall I hide my disgraceful self? Shall I say that I banished Rama from the Kingdom? Shall I say it was to fulfil my promise to Kaikeyi? That would be the truth of it. But would they not reply, “What of your word to us and to Rama?” Alas! I have broken it. I moaned and waited for sixty thousand years for an heir. I was, at last, fortunate to be blessed with Rama. And you want Rama’s life to be doomed in the forests? Rama is the bravest of the brave. There is not a science nor an art he has not mastered. He has sweet patience. How shall I give my consent to drive him away to the forests? He is the idol of my subjects. My tongue will blister if I speak to him to go to Dandaka forests! My eyes shall not see Rama undergo pain and misery. Who deserves more of joy and comfort than he? I wish to die before having to tell him to go to the forests. Why do you desire to do this to Rama?”

The sun set upon the sight of a weak old man. He was the lord of the earth. But now he is raving like one demented! The moon was an eyesore to Dasaratha. He spent the long night like one afflicted with an incurable malady.  He fixed his tearful eye on the sky. He called out to it in heart-rending lamentations. “Star bedecked Queen of Night! Have pity on me and continue ever. I am powerless to flee from Kaikeyi. If it dawns, my subjects will seek me out. And I will be relieved the sight of my enemy. Kaikeyi is the author of my woe.”

Then Dasaratha stood up. His thoughts wandered to another point. He stood before Kaikeyi with clasped hands. He sought to turn her from her purpose. “Girl! To the world, I am a God-fearing and principled man. I may die at any moment. My heart is wounded. You are my only hope. Besides, am I not your lord and husband? You owe me reverence and allegiance. I have made you what you are. You are my favourite queen of the ruler of Kosala. Let these things weigh with you in granting me my prayer. There was none with us when I gave you the two boons. You may drop them now. Thereby you will not incur the displeasure or ridicule of any. But my promise to Rama is far otherwise. I have passed my words to all the kings from the four quarters. So have I given my words to saintly Rishis and holy Brahmanas and to the millions of my subjects! If I break my pledge, how would I stand in their esteem? You are but a girl. Some intriguer may have put you up to this obstinacy. Let be; I pass it over. But grant me my prayer. I love you so much. Now I crave your pity for Rama. It is true that the kingdom is yours by right of the two boons. But, I pray you to make a gift of it to Rama. May Rama live long to rule over this realm! He will bless you, the fair donor, every moment of his life! Thus you will earn undying fame in the world of men and gods. It is but a trifle for you to do so. You will confer great happiness on Rama. The whole world will acclaim your praises. Good men will hold you in high esteem. But you might think that it will disappoint my Bharata. Is it what holds you back? No, he is the soul of nobility and justice. He sets no bounds to his love for Rama. Nothing will gladden his heart more.” Thus Dasaratha tried many an argument. He appealed to every possible weakness of hers. Alas! Dasaratha’s heart was open as the day. But Kaikeyi’s heart was blacker than hell. His eyes were red and weary with grief and sleeplessness. Her eyes were redder through rage. Tears rolled down his aged cheeks. She wept hot tears of grief to think that her beauty and wiles had not enslaved him sooner. He stormed, he raged and he entreated hard enough to melt the heart of an iron statue. But she brought into play every art. She tried every stratagem that a cunning woman’s brain could devise. She cooed, she froze, she preached, she philosophised, she cut and thrust to bend him to her will. Dasaratha fainted beneath the shock and came back to himself after a time. “Is this the woman I loved so much? Is she the same Kaikeyi, the faithful wife with a guileless heart?” Dasaratha gazed at her as though it was for the first time he was seeing her. All of a sudden his thoughts turned to the moment when he would have to condemn Rama to the forests of Dandaka. Thus the noble king passed the night with impotent rage and unavailing grief. And when the pale East began to quicken to the sun there came sweet music and songs and sweeter words. Conch, veena, tabor, bards, minstrels, and heralds recalled their lord to the duties of the new day.

But Dasaratha curtly bade them stop! 

      

{Dear young friends, like I said last time, please visit the site, raguramkrishnabagavatgita.blogspot.com and click somewhere on the Google AdSense Advertisements every day. Regards.}

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA FOURTH PART IN CHAPTER 12

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA CHAPTER 12, FOURTH PART

“Man, bird and beast will shrink from me if I send Rama to the forests!” exclaimed Dasaratha. I am a shameful person. I am a dotard! I have been a sanctimonious villain! Ah, how can I live it through? Hell is waiting for me. Well, you have tasted blood. What new plots do you nurture for my other people? Kausalya will die. Lakshmana will go with Rama. Satrughna is ever with Bharata. Sumitra will be deprived of Kausalya, myself, Rama and her sons. So she will also die. Once I die and Rama is gone to the forests, you alone will be left. And this glorious line of Ikshvaku will fall. If Bharata supports you and is not perturbed by Rama’s exile, I curse him. He should not render me the last rites. You have a base heart. You are my sworn enemy. Does your heart rejoice? Have your hopes borne fruit? You are a foul murderess. Exile Rama and lord it over this kingdom in widowed pomp. You are a cruel devil in woman’s guise. I will harvest unparalleled infamy through you. Rama is used to stately horses, elephants, chariots. How could he trudge through the thorny wilds? He is used to daintiest delicacies. Now he is to live on wild roots, berries and tasteless wood-land fare. He is used to costly beds. On his bed will be strewn delicate flowers of sweet fragrance. He will recline on such bed dressed in gorgeous robes. Bards, minstrels, singers and story-tellers usually amuse or lull him to sleep. He will be clad in deer-skin and bark of trees in the forests. He will rest his weary limbs on the bare earth. The earth will be rough with thorns and pebbles. The night-ranging beasts will howl and roar throughout the night.”

Dasaratha speaks from his heart the following words: “I wonder who hatched this scheme to crown Bharata and exile Rama to the forests. This hellish scheme and plot must have come from a Devil. Shame upon the womanhood! Alas, I am a fool to call all the women bad names. Bharata’s mother alone deserves that sentiment. She alone is a demon incarnate. She is a black-hearted snake with a glittering skin! You are always bent on having your own way. You are careless of what hearts you trample upon! You have a heart which no ray of pity illumines! You find it most exquisite in watching my frenzied agony. You torture me. Tell me what action of mine and Rama’s deserve this treatment? My Rama is in the grip of misfortune and calamity. All creatures will curse you with uncontrolled fury. A Deva of the Heaven is not more graceful and handsome than my Rama. Alas! I cannot bear to see him leave Ayodhya with the lordly gait of an elephant. It is no wonder if my life-breaths follow Rama to the forest. You wish for my death. You are my relentless foe. You are my Fate. I cherished you fondly. I gave the warmth of my bosom. You and Bharata will redden your hands in the blood of me and mine. Rejoice in the prosperity of my foes. You hold sway over this town and kingdom. Live happily without me, Rama and Lakshmana. You are a cruel fiend. You like to pierce a broken heart. You have dared to speak to me like this. But you owe me the wifely reverence. What keeps your wicked tongue from shrivelling up? Rama has a pleasant word for everybody. Everyone sings his praise. You are the only person who sees a blemish in his spotless character.  I will not care if black Despair swallowed you; I defy your puny wrath. Don’t try to frighten me with your death. I refuse to be your dope. I give my sanction to your suicidal plot. You are sharp and merciless as a razor! Base flatterer! Your wickedness is something unspeakable. You are born to ruin your house. You have fastened your brazen talons in my heart’s roots. I see Death beckons me yonder. What joy will you have after tearing me from Rama? If I lived, what will I have but black hate for you? Do take my advice. See, I lay my proud head at your feet. Cast an eye of pity on me. To the world, Dasaratha is a proud Emperor. Yet he is the abject slave of his wife. He had boundless love for her. What did she do? Why she bound him and delivered into the hands of Death. I pray for your death. I entreat you with my head at your feet. Don’t you have any pity on me?” Speaking like a senile, Dasaratha bent down groped aimlessly to clasp Kaikeyi’s feet. She stretched them in utter shamelessness. But Dasaratha’s tortured limbs could not bear him any longer. He fell at her cruel feet like an uprooted tree.  

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RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA THE THIRD PART OF CHAPTER 12

                                RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA CHAPTER 12, THIRD PART

Dasaratha continued his righteous speech: “The love I showed you have only produced hatred for me. My favours, gifts and my benefits have turned into so many scorpions. Now you have thrown off your mask. You stand in your naked wickedness. My folly comes back to roost. I have been very stupid. I have never bestowed a thought of love to Sumatra. She will be terrified by my action. She will ever after shun me like a plague. And to think of poor Sita I tremble. The word “Dasaratha is dead and Rama is banished to the forests will scorch her heart. Deprived of Rama she will seek peacefulness in death. Do you, Kaikeyi, expect me to survive the shock of Rama’s banishment? Rama and myself will begin our journey at the same time. He will go to the forests and I will go to the halls of Death. You will look well in your widow’s weeds. I married you, deceived by your fatal beauty. I thought you were a model of virtue and wifely devotion.  And now when a chance has come your way you have thrown off the mask. Your insidious flattery enslaved my heart. I am going to sell my eldest son into bondage to please a woman’s caprice. Every man in this territory will point the finger of scorn at me. My name will be a byword of reproach and shame. Never have I experienced such a misery in my existence.”

“Ah! Woe unspeakable! I am a wretched sinner. I am a fiend in human shape. I preserved the rope that is to be my halter now. I invited my fate. I sought my fate as a hounered guest to my house. The end is near. My guest will redden my hearth with my heart’s blood. Alas!  I have spent countless years by your side. All the time you were sharpening the dagger that will be sheathed in my heart. I have behaved like a baby which fondles the fangs of a cobra. I have been caressing you all the time. Dasaratha is in his second childhood. He is an impotent slave to his ill-placed love. Who but a dotard would exile his eldest son to the forests? He did all this to win a smile of a faithless woman.” Dasaratha was full of grief. He continued to speak: “I have to say ‘Rama! Take yourself to the dark forests.’ And he will gladly reply, ‘Of course, my master.’ He will utter no word of complaint. Won’t he obey me? It may seem all undutiful. But nothing would please me better. But, alas! I know he will never disobey me. He will take my order of banishment seriously. And he will obey it to the very letter.”

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA ,THE SECOND PART OF CHAPTER 12,

                         RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA: CHAPTER 12, SECOND PART

KAIKEYI continued to torture the aged monarch, Dasaratha.

“Death has no terrors for me. Death is a welcome friend. I don’t intend to see people pay homage to my rival, Kausalya. I have been an infinite joy to you. Can you deny that? My heart will have no peace unless I see Rama driven to the forests.” Kaikeyi maintained a cold and contemptuous silence after speaking as above-said. Dasaratha passionately entreated her. But Kaikeyi turned a deaf year to all his entreaties.

The words, “Rama should be exiled and Bharata should be crowned” fell like drops of molten lead in Dasaratha’s ears. For a moment he sat like a stupid person. Then he stared at his wife in bewilderment. Kaikeyi’s love and affection were turned into a merciless hatred and cold heartlessness. Her words pierced his heart. He cried, “Oh, Rama!” Then he fell like one struck by lightning.  He seemed like a person of an unsettled mind. He turned to Kaikeyi in abject humility. He said, “Please, let me know the person who has turned you like this. Has some demon taken possession of your soul? You were just a girl when I married you. Now you have grown up and keep a black heart behind your fare face. I don’t know why you want to use the two boons after this fashion. Put from you this unholy resolve. You must have committed some cruel things in the past. The result is your mean heart. So I am not surprised by the sea change in your behaviour. I am a fool to expect any kindness from you. My only consolation is that your hopes will not be carried out into action. All your labour and trouble will be in vain. Fool! Don’t you know that Bharata will remain in Ayodhya only if allowed by Rama? Bharata will be very much affected if Rama is not here. Bharata also is a virtuous son of mine. So, I will divide this kingdom equally among my sons. Or I will give the whole nation to Bharata. But please allow Rama to remain in Ayodhya. I want this request fulfilled so I would have Rama in the remaining days of me on this earth. This is a reasonable request. If you don’t grant even this you will be responsible for my death.”

“The cruel words” Dasaratha continued, “go to the forests will dim the lustre of Rama’s face. His face would become like the moon in the grip of Rahu. How can I look upon his face like this and continue to live? I have made this resolve to crown Rama. It is not out of any sudden freak or individual caprice. But I have taken earnest counsel with my ministers, friends, subjects, brother-kings, Brahmana and Sages. Mine is a well-concerted plan. Your obstinacy will not be allowed to spoil my decision. I have invited guests and kings from four quarters. What would they think of me? They would say that this Dasaratha is an idiot. He has lived for sixty thousand years. But he is not any the better for it. This is how they would react.”

“Many men, women, children and persons hoary in ears, knowledge and experience have been invited by me. If they ask me what happened and why the coronation did not take place, what shall tell them? Shall I say that ‘I have given Kaikeyi two boons? She has invoked them now. She asked for Rama’s exile and I have sent him to the Dantaka forests?  Shall I tell them Kaikeyi wants her son, Bharata to be crowned?’”

“Surely Kausalya will ask me about the offence Rama has committed. What reply do you expect me to give? What a noble woman she is! She waits upon me as though she were not the queen of this realm. She is an ideal wife. She joins me humbly when I discharge some moral or religious duty. At times like that she puts away her pride and haughtiness natural to a queen. When I took other wives she did not feel any jealousy. No mother is anxious for her son’s good like Kausalya. She is ever intent in anticipating my slightest wish. Even Rama takes a secondary place in her heart. She is ever soft and gentle of speech. She is my first love and eldest queen. I have disgracefully neglected her. All because I feared your displeasure like a coward!”

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--FIRST PART OF THE CHAPTER 12, IN THE TOILS

                                        RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—FIRST PART OF CHAPTER 12

KAIKEYI’S words fell like a thunder-bolt on Dasaratha’s ears. He plunged in the depths of grief. “This is not my Kaikeyi” uttered Dasaratha. “She was never known to talk like this! So, I cannot take it as a fact. Is it some horrible dream?” Dasaratha exclaimed. “Am I sleeping? No, I am not sleeping. I am wide awake! Have I gone mad? No, I don’t think so. Or is it some insidious malady?” he further talked to himself. He could not find any solution. He had been pierced with the cruel shafts of Kaikeyi’s words. His senses were confused. He heaved hot sighs. He sat on the earth. He was a pitiable sight to see. He fainted from grief.

It was a long time before he came back to himself. Wild fury possessed him. “Merciless wretch! Black-hearted!  You are a savage destroyer of my line! What harm have I or Rama done to you? Rama loves you as he his mother. The whole world knows the excellences of Rama. What crime has he committed to justify his banishment? I can put away Kausalya, Sumitra, my wealth, my power, no, my very life. I can put them away without a pang. But, the very idea of exiling Rama is an anathema to me. And how much love Rama has for me!” Dasaratha bemoaned like this.

“I cannot dream of being away from him. Not even for a moment!  It is clear that you have stacked your life on this sinful venture. You change your mind before it is too late. Free yourself from obstinacy. I entreat you with my head to your feet. Have pity on me. Abandon your foul purpose. Maybe you spoke like this to test my love for Bharata? Your prayer for the exile of Rama is utterly at variance with your former proclamations. ‘Rama is older in dharma and virtue than the others. Hence I consider Rama as my first-born. Bharata comes but next’.  Did you not speak like that? You have yielded to some schemers. They say it foretells the downfall of a noble line when a good member of the clan turns perverse and wicked. Your sudden change foretells some calamity to the line of Ikshvaku. I am bewildered. I cannot understand how you turned a wicked wretch. How do yo have you the heart to condemn Rama? I see no fault in Rama. He is virtuous and famous among the Mass. You were a nice and righteous soul. What has hardened your heart? You want Rama to spend fourteen years in exile. Rama is the darling of the people. Would they stand by and see Rama being sent out to the forests? Rama has never failed in his duty towards you. There are three million women in my kingdom. Has anyone of them spoken a harsh word against Rama?” Dasaratha bemoaned.

He continued to talk: “There are thousands of men and women in this kingdom. They work hard to earn their livelihood. Have any of them traduced my Rama? Rama is keen over their well being. His mind is ever centred in their welfare. Rama is an unmatched hero among the toiling people. What madness possessed you to pray for his exilement? He is ever sweet to men and beast. He has not caused even a slight annoyance to me. Rama is dearer to me than the light of my eyes. Kaikeyi, I have lived long. Death opens its doors to me even now. I am a drivelling dotard. I pray you to have pity upon me.” Thus Dasaratha raved. He was confused with grief. He fainted many times. Then he would recover after some time.

But Kaikeyi’s anger blazed forth. “If someone asks you when you are in the assembly of great monarchs like you,” Kaikeyi asked Dasaratha, “Dasaratha! Your wife Kaikeyi saved your life once. And how did you discharge your debt to her? You know very well the mysteries of duty. Will you reply that you gave her two boons and then turned against her when she invoked the boons? Would you reply to them that you gave Kaikeyi two boons? And the fool took it all seriously what I had granted to just please a woman’s heart! Do you know the anecdote when Sibi, one of your ancestors, gave his own flesh to a vulture after having saved the life of a dove from the vulture?”

Kaikeyi fixed her husband with a straight look. She blamed him by calling him a black-hearted deceiver! “I don’t care if it turned out that the two boons I ask you to discharge are unjust and not righteous. If Rama is crowned as you have planed I will take my life. I will drink deadly poison and die.”  The cruel Kaikeyi threatened her lord thus.   

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYA KANDA, CHAPTER 11, THE FATAL BOONS

                                       RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA, CHAPTER 11

                                                                      THE FATAL BOONS

KAIKEYI remembered Manthara’s words. “Bind your husband by oaths. Then make him grant the two boons.” She knew about the old king. He was passionate about Kaikeyi. He was ready to do anything for her. She knew that he was ready to do anything for her sake. She said to Dasaratha, “Your numerous gifts have been good. But I do not care for them. You are a great monarch. I have a certain purpose at heart. You are mighty. You may make or mar my heart’s desire. If you are going to grant me the boons, swear to me you would do so.”

Dasaratha wondered much about Kaikeyi’s words and strange behaviour. “I am here to obey her words. Yet she asks me to swear. It is a trifle for me to give her what she wants. Well, I thank the Gods that she is in good health. He smiled at Kaikeyi. He raised her from the ground. He laid her fair head on his lap. He felt a rush of blood. The madness of his love rose to a delirium. Without considering what he was about to say, he spoke, “O, fairest Queen on earth! You know that no other woman is nearer my heart. You are more welcome to my eyes than Rama. But he is the best of men! Would you like me to swear upon the peerless prince? What shall I do for you? I swear to carry out your purpose. I swear on my Rama! I shall think it my privilege and honour if you ask me to sacrifice my body. I shall swear upon Bharata and other sons. I cannot live away from my Rama. And by him, I swear to fulfil your wish. I would rather die than fail to do your bidding. Speak out your wish. And save me from grief and anxiety. You know I am a slave to you. You have cast a mighty spell on me. You know my power to make or mar. Do you still doubt my good faith? Once again I swear by every good and holy act I have done. I shall carry out your order at any cost.”

Kaikeyi never forgot Manthara’s counsel. Manthara had advised her to secure the exile of Rama. And another purpose is the installation of Bharata. Now Dasaratha has sworn. Kaikeyi is overjoyed. Her husband would not fail to carry out her wish. He had sworn upon his darling son, Rama. So, Kaikeyi resolved to tell Dasaratha of her cruel purpose. She was like the God of Death in disguise. Then Kaikeyi had a doubt. “True,” she thought, “the old monarch has sworn to do whatever her wish was. My boon is not an ordinary one. But he may hear me out. Then he could say, ‘It is not in my power to do what you say! Then my heart’s hope would be shattered!” Kaikeyi decided to bind the king more securely. She exclaimed, “Righteous King! You have sworn by Rama. If you speak true, I would say what my wish is. Listen, O, You gods, thirty-three planetary Rulers!  King Dasaratha swears to grant my wish. And he is a speaker of truth. He is a warrior of immeasurable might. He is an adept in the mystery of dharma. O, gods, lend me your ears and witness his promise!” Thus Kaikeyi cast her powerful spells over Dasaratha. Dasaratha was blinded by love and passion. He was ready to please her at any cost. She said to Dasaratha, “My Lord! Let me make you remember the battle you waged against Sambara, the Asura. He wounded you and you fainted right away. But I took the risk of losing my life and drove you to a distant part of the field. I spent the long night ministering to you. I hope you have not forgotten the incident. The next day you were very pleased with my gesture. You granted me two boons. But I kept them with you until some likely season. O, Lord of the immeasurable expanse of the earth! You are the soul of Truth! Now I pray you to grant me two boons. If you refuse to grant me the boons, I shall die.”

The monarch was like the foolish deer that went toward the hunter who was playing on his flute. Kaikeyi’s words had already enslaved him. He cried, “Enough! Have you not my promise to carry out your bidding? Why do you still hesitate?”

Alas! He did not suspect what was in store for him! He did not see the shadow of Death hovering over him. Kaikeyi observed him keenly. And she was convinced that he was hopelessly enslaved to her beauty. He has assured her that he would grant anything she wants. Once again she stared at him. She spoke to him, “I am about to ask you to grant me the two boons. Hear me with utmost attention. My son Bharata shall be crowned to the throne! My son should be crowned with the very things prepared towards Rama’s coronation! Mighty monarch! Now is the time for me to ask of you the second boon! Rama shall be banished to the forests of Dandaka for fourteen years! He shall live as a recluse in the forests. He must have matted hair and dressed in deer-skin and the bark of trees. Look sharp! This very moment my son Bharata should rule over the country undisturbed. This is the wish of my heart. And you have sworn inviolably to realize it. I am only asking you to perform what you had promised. This very day I shall see Rama turn his back upon Ayodhya. He must go to Dandaka. King of kings! Keep your promise! Act as I say and save you from disgrace! You belong to the line of the mighty Ikshvakus. You should act in agreement with your illustrious forefathers. It is your duty as a king. In your crown shines the brightest jewel of Truth. I have heard wise and holy men speak of Truth. It is the surest road to the bright mansions of the Blessed!”      

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 10

                                   RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 10

                                                                     THE UXORIOUS MONARCH

The wicked Manthara did her job well. Kaikeyi was busy revolving the plot hatched by her maid. “Manthara! You speak well. And I shall do as you say.” She heaved hot sighs of wrath. “Would I win or lose?” she asked herself. “I will win or die” she came to the conclusion. He face was black as a thunder-cloud with suppressed anger. She wrapped herself in a single cloth which was soiled and mean. She flung herself on the dust with her long her in a single braid. She lay in that dark chamber.

Now Dasaratha gave his last directions to his ministers. After that, he dismissed his audience. He withdrew to the apartments of Kaikeyi. “Rama’s coronation was suddenly resolved upon. My darling Kaikeyi cannot have been informed of it. I will be the first to bear the news to her.” With these thoughts, he went to the apartments of Kaikeyi.

Dasaratha passed on through that spacious palace. He went like a mighty lion into his lair. He proceeded to where Kaikeyi used to await his arrival. But he did not find her there. The hour, the music, the birds, the perfumes awoke in him hot desires. He asked a chamberlain, “Where is Kaikeyi?” The officer trembled with fear. “Your Majesty! I saw her proceeding in the direction of the anger chamber.” The officer informed the old Monarch.

The Monarch flew to the dark cell of Mourning. And there he saw his wife roll in the dust as one demented. The snows of sixty thousand winters lay heavy on Dasaratha. Kaikeyi was in the bright summer of her youth. Dasaratha was the soul of righteousness. Dasaratha fondly stroked his darling. He said to himself, “What would she have? Is her frame racked by any pain? Or is it that she is displeased with me? Say, are you ill? I have countless doctors of medicine. Is it your wish that I send for them now? They will cure your illness in a trice. But if you are really angry, name the wretch who has offended you. He shall suffer the tortures of the damned. Or, is it that someone, who has done some service to you, you are unable to repay him? I shall reward him beyond your expectations. Weep not. Let not senseless grief rack your fair limbs. I have this vast land at my command. You should not grieve. What innocent man you want me to be doomed to death? What wretched man you want me to set free? What beggar shall I make a prince? I am here to serve you. You know better than others the extent of my power. This broad earth is mine to command. Alas, that you should so soil your limbs. Why should you roll in dust and dirt! What do you fear? Tell me truly. I will not fail to remove it. And I swear it on the merit I have laid by till now.”

Kaikeyi was somewhat consoled by the promises of the aging Monarch. She resolved to pierce his heart with cruel words. She set about to bind him by dreadful oaths. 

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 9

                    RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA—CHAPTER 9

                                                                       THE FALL OF KAIKEYI

Fire flashed from Kaikeyi’s eyes. She thought of her self reduced to the bond-maid of Kausalya. She exclaimed, “This moment I will drive Rama away from the haunts of men. And I will place the crown on the head of Bharata. Manthara! I know that your brain is keen and subtle. My son must win the throne. Rama should be eternally shut out from the succession to the throne. This is my object. I want to accomplish the object. And I count upon you to find me a way.”

Manthara said, “Here I have a plan ready to set Bharata on the throne. A great war took place of yore between the gods and the asuras. The gods had the worst of it. And they had prayed your husband to assist them. The king marched south with his friends. You accompanied him to the Dandaka forests. There Sambara, the asura, ruled from his city Vaijayanta. He was a master of illusion. He was invincible. He often fought with Indra. Dasaratha fought with him long and fiercely. And he was wounded. He lay in a deep swoon and helpless in his chariot. You drove him to another part of the field and sought to bring him back to life. But the asuras pursued him even there. They further wounded him. You took him to another place of safety. You thus rescued him from the jaws of death twice. Dasaratha was deeply grateful to you. “Saviour of my life,” he exclaimed, “I grant you two boons. Ask what you will have.” You accepted it with joy and replied, “I reserve your gifts for due season.” And he gave his consent. It was you who told me of the boons. I have treasured it in the depths of my memory.”

Manthara further counseled, “Make your husband to stop the preparation for the coronation of Rama. Put him in mind of the two boons. Use them to seat Bharata on the throne of the Kosala. And exile Rama to the woods for twice seven years.”

“I am not finished yet,” said Manthara. “You daughter of Asvapati! Take yourself to the chamber of wrath. Wrap your shapely limbs in coarse robes. Lie there in dust and dirt. The moment Dasaratha steps in sob as if your heart would break. Don’t raise your eyes to his face. Don’t speak to him. And our hopes are sure to be crowned with success. I know that you stand nearest to his heart. For you he will jump into the blazing fire. He will lay at your feet gold, gems, pearls and costly trifles. Never look at them. Recall to him the two boons given on the battlefield. He is not a man to go back upon his word. Make him cry that he will give you the two boons. Make him swear that he will not break his word. And then ask him to exile Rama to the forests for fourteen years and crown Bharata as ruler of Ayodhya. The people are fickle. They would soon forget their idol of the time, Rama. By the time Rama returns from the forests Bharata would have won the hearts of his subjects. Now is the time to accomplish our purpose or never.”

“Manthara!” exclaimed Kaikeyi. “Hunchbacks are naturally keen-witted. But you are far away and the first among them. Millions call me their queen. But you are the only one who watches over my interests. You live for my happiness. Dasartha’s black heart was a sealed book to me. I have set my eyes on countless hunchbacks. But you are a rare jewel. You are lovely beyond compare. Countless hunchbacks shall wait upon you in turn. Go tell my father that Rama will be banished from the kingdom. And my Bharata will rule the kingdom.”

Manthara had not a particle of doubt now that her pupil was dead set on her nefarious purpose.  

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 8

                                                                      THE TEMPTER

Manthara flung aside the costly present of her mistress. She really came to believe that Kaikeyi was in danger. “Dull-witted! How is it that you are so insensible to the instant danger? I cannot appreciate your raptures. They are ill-timed. The news of Rama’s coronation is a death-blow to all our hopes. And you rejoice where you should lament. Rama is the son of your rival. Is he not? Then he is your Fate. The most stupid person would not go into raptures at such news.

Perhaps, you are not aware of the consequences in store for you. This crown belongs of right as much to Bharata as to Rama. So your son is an object of fear to him. the very thought fills me with despair. Rama would naturally seek to ruin Bharata. It would be to save himself from future danger through Bharata. Lakshmana is entirely devoted to Rama. Rama fears him not. Similarly, Bharata has nothing to fear from Satrughna. The younger princes would like to reign in their turn as well. Rama was born under the star Punarvasu. He gets the crown first. Next comes Bharata born under Pushya. Next comes Lakshmana and last Satrugna. So Rama will seek to make away with Bharata. Because he stands next to him. Rama is a deep one. He is an expert in the kingly polity. He knows when to act and how. I tremble to think what Bharata may suffer at the hands of Rama.

Kausalya is at the zenith of glory and power. When Rama is crowned Kausalya too would be crowned with wealth and fame. It is Kausalya you have to fear most”.

The nobility of Kaikeyi was proof against Manthara’s arguments. She sought to disarm the hunchback’s malice towards Rama. She dwelt at length on his manifold excellences. “I know well that not one of your aspersions lies at his door. Rama is an ideal for all sons to follow. And above all, he is Dasaratha’s first-born. Who deserves the crown more than he? Rama is a fond father to his brothers and dependents. It is pure madness to dream of evil to Bharata at the hands of Rama. I wonder why you are so much worried and afflicted. The very news of Rama’s coronation fills you with fear. Rama is the darling of my heart. He waits upon me ever with love and reverence. It does not matter that Bharata never comes to power. For Rama looks after his brothers as his very self”.

Kaikeyi’s defence of Rama filled Manthara with fears and sorrow. She replied, “Oh, the jaundiced eye that sees good in evil! You have a feeble intellect. Bharata is deprived of his rightful power. He is exiled from Kosala. What a pitiful sight! The rising sun will see Rama seated on the thrown. And his sons will succeed him by right. Rama but waits to get the throne untroubled by rival claims. He might exile Bharata to distant lands or send him out of this world. Lakshmana is the shadow of Rama. If Satrugna is here, the old king might remember the younger brothers. In your pride of beauty and the sway over the monarch, you have slighted Kausalya many times. You have trampled upon her heart. You have lacerated her feelings. She will wreak vengeance upon you and yours. I have spoken enough. The sun that rises to see Rama crowned also rises on the last day of Bharata’s life on earth. Do something whereby you could seat your son Bharata on his father’s throne. And send your mortal enemy Rama in the dark depths of distant forests.”

RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN--AYODHYAKANDA--CHAPTER 7

                         RAMAYANA FOR CHILDREN—AYODHYAKANDA-CHAPTER 7

                                                            MANTHARA, THE PLOTTER

No one knew where Manthara came from. Her parentage was equally unknown. When Kaikeyi came to Ayodhya as the bride of Dasaratha, Manthara came along with her. She stood like a bird of evil omen on the balcony of Kaikeyi’s white mansion. And she cast an idle glance on the busy town below her. The roads were neatly swept and well-watered. Bright flags and proud bannerets crowned the houses. The city wall had been pierced with fresh gates for the easy passage of the happy crowds. The people were fresh from their bath. Rama’s palace gates were crowded with Brahmanas chanting holy hymns. Strains of sweet music rose from every quarter. Groups of happy men and women filled the streets. Even the horses and elephants, cows and bulls rejoined loudly in expectation of the happy event. The lofty gates of holy shrines glittered white in the soft moonlight. Manthara had a dark heart. She marvelled much at the sight.

She turned to a girl that stood near clad in spotless white. The girl was gazing with open-eyed amaze and pleasure at th lovely scenes. “Friend! Can you tell me why Kausalya is so free and lavish with her gold? She was ever known to be close-fisted and greedy. What mean these gay and happy crowds? What wonderful pageant, what new surprise, has our king for us?” The maid replied, “King Dasaratha has decided to seat our darling Rama on the royal throne. The people are beside themselves with joy.” The words roused black envy in the heart of the hunchback. She sped down from the terrace to where Kaikeyi slept. Wicked thoughts seethed in the brain of the hunchback. Her heart was aflame with wrath. “Sleeping blessedly, you foolish one! Awake, arise, for Peril draws near you. Don’t you see the dark clouds of misfortune over your head? You brag of your rare beauty and good fortune. You say they have made you the heart’s delight of your husband. But you have no place in his affections.”

These cruel words from the enraged heart of the hand-maid affected the queen. She said to Manthara, “What? This from you! I fear some unseen evil has clouded your heart.”

“Lady!” the scheming Manthara asked, “Do you not know that the foolish king is going to crown Rama as the ruler of this vast country? I do not know if a greater evil can befall you! It is hopeless to prevent it. You are the idol of my heart. I suffer the tortures of the damned. I have become a prey to consuming flames. I flew to you to save you from your fate. I live or die with you. You are a daughter of a mighty king. And you were wedded to a mightier monarch. But you are a sweet and gentle dove ensnared by a cruel and cunning vulture. Your husband’s honeyed words conceal a cruel heart. He has taken advantage of your pure heart. He has cozened you with sweet talk of undying love. But his soul has been all the while busy plotting your ruin. And now he has thrown off his mask. He is showering wealth and honour on his favourite queen and her son. Ah, my queen! Your fond love has blinded your eyes to the coming evil! Your husband has managed to keep your son Bharata far away from the throne. Your husband is really your most relentless foe. Avoid him, now at least, as you would the Bringer of death. Have you placed your confiding soul in the keeping of your mortal enemy? Ah, gentle heart, that was made for a life of happiness and pleasure! Beware it is too late. Wake to your peril, now at least. Save Bharata from the brink of ruin. Thereby save yourself and me!”

Kaikeyi, who lay stretched at her ease, heard her out with a smile of amused pity. But the news of Rama’s coronation thrilled here with joy. Her face reflected her heart. It was like the beautiful autumn moon. She rose in joyous haste and glad surprise. Her prayers and long-cherished hopes had borne fruit. She could not dream of a greater good fortune to herself and Bharata. She threw a priceless necklace of flashing gems round the hunchback’s neck. “None can rejoice more at Rama’s coronation than I, his mother. For Rama and Bharata are the twin blossoms that grow from my heart! These are sweetest words I have ever heard till now. And I cannot reward you enough! Ask what you will of me, for, it is yours.”

Kaikeyi’s innocent happiness and ready welcome made the evil Manthara more determined in her purpose of evil.