Ramayana – Chapter 3: Exile and Forest Life

Exile and Forest Life

After the breaking of Shiva's bow and the joyous conclusion of Sita's Swayamvar, there was an atmosphere of celebration in Ayodhya. The entire kingdom was filled with joy and merriment due to the marriage of Ram and Sita. However, destiny had planned something else for Ayodhya, a change that would forever alter the lives of Ram, Dasharath, and the entire kingdom.

Kaikeyi's Wrath

There was peace and happiness all around Ayodhya, but the fire of envy was burning in the heart of Queen Kaikeyi. Manthara, her wicked maidservant, had poisoned Kaikeyi's mind, making her feel that Ram's coronation was an injustice to her son Bharata. Her heart was filled with envy and greed, and she wanted Bharata to become the king of Ayodhya at any cost. Her face was red with anger, her eyes shone with malice.

"O King," Kaikeyi said in a harsh tone, "Today I demand the fulfillment of those boons. The first boon is that Bharata be made the king of Ayodhya, and the second is that Ram be sent into exile for fourteen years."

Ram's Exile

Dasharath was stunned to hear Kaikeyi's words. His heart was filled with grief. He knew that the tradition of the Raghukul was that even if life were to be lost, a promise should not be broken. Ram, ready to obey his father's command, immediately agreed. He said to Kaikeyi, "Mother, it is my duty to obey my father's command. I am ready to go into exile for fourteen years." Ram also persuaded Sita and Lakshman to accompany him.

Upon hearing the news of Ram's exile, a wave of sorrow swept through Ayodhya. Dasharath could not bear this shock and gave up his life in separation from Ram. His last words were "O Ram," reflecting his devotion and love. Ram's virtues and his devotion to Dharma plunged the entire kingdom into mourning.

Bharata's Renunciation

When Bharata received the news of Dasharath's death and Ram's exile, he was overwhelmed with grief. He expressed great anger at his mother Kaikeyi's actions and refused the throne of Ayodhya. Bharata vowed that he would not rule as the king of Ayodhya until Ram returned from exile. He went to the forest to bring Ram back, but Ram was determined to uphold his father's promise. Bharata placed Ram's sandals on the throne and began to live like an ascetic. Bharata's spirit of renunciation was unparalleled, making him a great king, even though he never sat on the throne.