Sita Katha – Chapter 9: Return and the Reign of Dharma

Return and the Kingdom of Righteousness

After the war and liberation, the sun of victory, risen from the ashes of Lanka and the end of Ravana, was now set to move towards Ayodhya. Hanuman had already reached Ayodhya to inform of Rama's arrival, and the entire city was eagerly awaiting the return of their beloved prince. After a period of exile and struggle, Ayodhya was once again preparing for Diwali, as if heaven itself had descended upon earth.

Bharat Milap (Union with Bharata)

Hearing the tale of Rama's victory from Hanuman's lips, tears welled up in Bharata's eyes. For years, he had been ruling the kingdom by placing Rama's sandals on the throne, solely in anticipation of Rama's return. The fruit of his penance and devotion was now to be reaped. Ayodhya was decorated like a bride. Lamps were lit in every home, and every heart beat with the name of Rama. The sound of conch shells and bells echoed in the winds, as if nature itself was welcoming Rama.

"O Rama, my Lord, you have returned! My eyes have been waiting only for you for so many years," Bharata said to Hanuman. "My mind will find peace only when I can surrender everything at your feet."

Coronation of Rama in Ayodhya

As the Pushpak Vimana appeared in the sky above Ayodhya, the earth and sky resounded with cheers. Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Hanuman descended from the aircraft. Bharata rushed and clasped Rama's feet. Rama lifted him and embraced him, and tears of love flowed from the eyes of both brothers. Rama first touched the feet of his mothers Kausalya, Kaikeyi, and Sumitra. Sita also sought the blessings of her mothers-in-law. The citizens of Ayodhya gave a grand welcome to their beloved king and queen.

Rama's coronation was performed with due ceremony. Sage Vashishtha, with the chanting of mantras, seated Rama on the throne. Sita sat beside him, as if a confluence of power and love was taking place. Rama pledged to the subjects to uphold truth, righteousness, and justice. Sita's presence made the coronation even more sacred. Her compassion and sacrifice touched the hearts of the people of Ayodhya. She played a significant role in making Rama an ideal king.

Establishment of Ram Rajya

In Ram Rajya, the subjects were happy and prosperous. No one was unhappy or poor. Dharma was being followed everywhere. Rama established a just rule, where everyone received equal opportunities. He cared for the joys and sorrows of his subjects and never allowed injustice to befall anyone. Ram Rajya became an ideal kingdom, which is remembered even today.

The divine couple, Maryada Purushottam Rama and Mata Sita, set an example of love, sacrifice, and righteousness that will continue to inspire humanity for ages to come. Their lives teach us that peace and happiness are attained only by walking the path of truth and dharma. The establishment of Ram Rajya was the beginning of a golden age, where every person received respect and love.