Ramayana – Chapter 7: Return to Ayodhya and Reign

Return to Ayodhya and Reign

After the end of the Lanka war, the injustice of Ravana had come to an end. Mother Sita's fire ordeal had proven her purity. Now, the fourteen-year exile was also about to end, and it was time for Lord Rama to return to Ayodhya and bring happiness and peace to the subjects.

Bharat Milan

For fourteen years, Bharata had been living the life of an ascetic, keeping the sandals of his brother Rama on the throne. His eyes were waiting for Rama's arrival every moment. The moments of waiting ended when Hanuman, carrying Rama's message, reached Nandigram. Bharata's heart was filled with joy.

Bharata ran, embraced Hanuman, and asked, "Hanuman, where is my Rama? Is he well? How are Mother Sita and Lakshmana? I can no longer bear the pain in my heart." Hanuman replied, "Lord Rama, Mother Sita, and Lakshmana are all well and will soon arrive in Ayodhya to see you." Bharata's happiness knew no bounds. He immediately ordered Ayodhya to be decorated for Rama's welcome.

Coronation of Rama Rajya

At an auspicious moment, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana arrived in Ayodhya by the Pushpak Vimana. The city of Ayodhya was aglow with lamps, and there was an atmosphere of celebration in every home. Bharata welcomed Rama with great respect and seated him on the throne. Sage Vashishtha performed Rama's coronation with the chanting of Vedic mantras. The sound of victory cries echoed from all four directions. The gods were showering flowers.

As soon as Rama was seated on the throne, he promised happiness, peace, and prosperity to the subjects. He inspired everyone to walk the path of dharma and live a just life. In Rama Rajya, no one was unhappy or poor. All people lived with love and harmony amongst themselves. Crime and injustice were eradicated. Rama's reign became an ideal kingdom, which is imagined in every era. Every person followed their dharma; there was no place for lies and deceit.

Establishment of Rama Rajya

In Rama Rajya, dharma, justice, and truth prevailed. The subjects were happy, prosperous, and content. The earth was verdant, and rivers flowed with pure water. Rama, by being an ideal king, showed how subjects could be kept happy. The story of Rama Rajya is still told in every home in India today.

Every action, every decision of Rama was in the interest of the subjects. He was always ready for the well-being of his subjects. Rama provided equal opportunities to everyone in his kingdom. No discrimination was made against anyone. This is why his subjects loved him dearly. Rama Rajya was a golden age, which still lives in people's hearts today. Due to Rama's love and justice, Ayodhya truly became heaven.