Ramcharitmanas – Chapter 7: Uttarkand: Coronation and Reign

Uttarakhand: Coronation and Reign

After the burning of Lanka, Ravana met his end, and righteousness was established over unrighteousness. Now, after Mother Sita's trial by fire, Lord Rama, along with Lakshmana and Hanuman, and the entire Vanara army, is departing for Ayodhya, where the people of Ayodhya are eagerly awaiting the end of their beloved prince's fourteen-year exile. The city of Ayodhya, filled with sorrow and despair, is thrilled at the mere thought of Rama's arrival.

Arrival in Ayodhya

The Pushpak Vimana was heading towards Ayodhya, leaving a golden trail in the sky. Below, the Sarayu River flowed calmly and clearly, as if eager to welcome Rama. Ayodhya was adorned like a bride. Torans were tied at every doorway, rangoli decorated the streets, and a festive atmosphere prevailed in every home. Bharata, devoted to his brother's feet, was living a life of austerity, barefoot. His heart yearned to see Rama. Mothers Kausalya, Kaikeyi, and Sumitra were also anxious, awaiting their son's arrival, their eyes fixed on the door.

Hanuman went ahead and delivered the message of Lord Rama's arrival to Bharata. Tears welled up in Bharata's eyes, and he ran to welcome his brother. "Lord Rama is coming! The fourteen-year wait is over!" Bharata exclaimed with joy. "Today my life is blessed; now I can offer my service at the Lord's feet." Mother Kausalya, holding back her tears, said, "My Rama is returning, my Rama is returning."

Coronation

Rama's Pushpak Vimana landed in Ayodhya. Bharata ran and touched Lord Rama's feet. Rama embraced Bharata, as if the separation of fourteen years vanished in an instant. The people of Ayodhya echoed with chants of 'Jai Shri Ram'. Mother Sita touched the feet of Mother Kausalya and other mothers. After this, at an auspicious moment, Rama's coronation took place. Sage Vashishtha chanted mantras and Rama was enthroned as the king of Ayodhya. Sita was seated on the throne with Rama, as if the confluence of power and dignity was occurring.

With Rama's coronation, an era of happiness and prosperity began in Ayodhya. By the grace of Lord Rama, all sad and suffering people became happy. Righteousness and justice prevailed everywhere. Rama considered the subjects his family and dedicated his life to their service. The remembrance of Rama's name became the remover of all troubles.

Establishment of Ram Rajya

In Ram Rajya, no one was unhappy, no one was poor. All people walked the path of righteousness and helped each other. There was no place for theft, deceit, or lies. Rivers were pure, fields were lush green, and nature was in its full glory. This Ram Rajya was an ideal kingdom, where righteousness, justice, and love reigned. Rama ruled Ayodhya for fourteen years, and his reign is remembered as a golden age. Lord Rama proved that an ideal society can be established only by following the path of righteousness.