RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – I [2]

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RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – I [2]

The Rama Story, Stream of Sacred Sweetness

As told by the Divine Lord Himself in the present Avatar as Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Chapter 5The Guru and the Pupils

The brothers lived in the preceptor's house and served him with devotion. They

renounced the comforts of the palace and gladly underwent the hardships. They

carried out the wishes of the master in humility and with loyalty. They

finished their studies in a very short period and mastered the subjects they

were taught. One day Emperor Dasaratha proceeded with his Minister to the home

of their teacher. He was beside himself with joy when he saw them reciting

Vedic hymns and heard the sacred formulae rolling out of their tongues, clear

and fast, like a cascade of bright pearls. He was happy that his sons had

learnt so much.

Rama rose and fell at the feet of his father. Seeing this, the three brothers

too came forward and prostrated before him. The teacher invited the Emperor and

the Minister to seat themselves on raised seats covered with deerskin. Dasaratha

began conversing with the teacher in order to find out how far the children had

advanced in studies. Rama signed to his brothers that they should not overhear

their talk; he left the room with the permission of the guru, carrying his

books with him and calling on the others to follow him. The brothers took the

cue from Rama in all matters and so they silently obeyed his merest gesture.

Vasishtha and Dasaratha noted this incident; they appreciated the upright

conduct of Rama, his understanding of the trend of the teacher's conversation

and the immediate reaction of humility and the way in which he was an example

and ideal for the three brothers. They were glad that they had learnt so much

discipline.

Vasishtha could not contain himself. He said, "Maharaja: Your sons have mastered

all the arts. Rama has mastered all the Sasthras. He is no ordinary mortal. As

soon as I began teaching him to recite the Vedas, he used to repeat them as if

he knew them already. Only He who has inspired the hymns can repeat them so,

not any other. The Vedas are not 'books', which he could have perused while at

leisure! They have come down from guru and disciple, through recitation and

listening only. They are not available anywhere, except from the preceptor!

That is the reason why it is referred to as Shruti (That which is heard). It is

the Divine breath of God that has shaped itself into these mantras. I have not

seen so far any one who has mastered them as Rama has done. Why should I say,

'seen'? I have not even 'heard' of any

one who has accomplished this remarkable feat!

"I can tell you of many more superhuman achievements of your son. Maharaja! When

I think of my good fortune in securing these boys as my pupils, I feel it is the

reward for the asceticism I practiced so long. They need learn nothing further.

They have now to be trained in bowmanship and archery, and similar skills

appropriate for royal princes. They have completed their studies under me and

become efficient in all that I can teach. The day too is very auspicious. Take

them back with you to the Palace".

At this, Dasaratha, who was afflicted for months with the pain of separation,

shed tears of joy. He could not contain his delight. He turned towards the

Minister by his side, and directed him to convey the good news to the Queens

and ask them to come over to the hermitage with the offerings that the pupils

have to present to the preceptor while leaving his custody. Sumanthra proceeded

very fast to the Palace, and communicated the news. He got ready the gifts and

returned quicker than anticipated.

Meanwhile the boys had their belongings packed at the suggestion of Vasishtha

and the articles were loaded into the chariot. As directed by their father, the

children worshipped the Guru according to prescribed ceremonial, gave him the

gifts, and fell at his feet, asking his permission to leave for home.

Vasishtha drew the boys to his side, pressed their hands and patted them on

their heads. He blessed them and most unwillingly allowed them to leave. The

pang of separation brought tears in his eyes. He walked up to the chariot with

his pupils. The boys ascended the vehicle, and it moved away. They turned back

towards the Guru and looked in his direction with folded palms, for a long

distance. The preceptor, too, stood at that place, his cheeks wet with tears.

Dasaratha noticed this bond between the teacher and the pupils; he was greatly

pleased.

They reached home. The guru entered the hermitage with a heavy heart. Wherever

his eyes were turned, he noticed darkness and no light. He feared that the

attachment he had developed might confirm itself as a shackle; he decided to

sit in Dhyana in order to suppress the rising tides of memory. Soon, he

overcame the outer illusion and merged himself in inner Ananda. He realized

that the boys were embodiments of Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha - the Four Goals

of Human Life (Righteousness, Welfare, Endeavor and Liberation) and that they

had taken human form in order to re-establish on earth these grand ideals of

gracious living. This gave him unruffled peace.

Dasaratha resolved to supplement the education the boys had received, by

training them in the use of arms; so, he called in expert archers and others

and made arrangements to teach them the science of attack and defense. But who

can claim to be the teachers of these boys who were already pastmasters in

every field of study? They were only 'acting' the roles of humans and

pretending to learn.

To Him who holds the strings of this puppet show, who can teach to pull the

string? Men who could not recognize their Reality underneath the camouflage of

Maya sought to train them and teach them the objective skills useful for

external living. They have come to save the world from disaster; so, they have

to be in the world and of the world, respecting the conventions of the world,

so far as they subserve their purpose. Men could not understand their acts,

for, they are beyond human intellect or imagination; they will be helpless if

asked to explain them. But people must learn the ideals they put into practice.

So, Rama was presenting himself as a cinder covered with ash, or a lake with a

thick float of moss or the moon hidden by a curtain of clouds. The brothers

were following the footsteps of

Rama.

Rama and Lakshmana were revealing knowledge of stratagems and skills, which even

expert instructors did not know about. They were wonder-struck and were even a

little fear-stricken. But, the four Princes never shot an arrow at an animal or

bird. They never broke the vow taken solemnly by them that they will use arms

only on occasions of great urgency, not for the pleasure of killing or

wounding. The trainers took them often to the forest for hikes and game

shooting; but, when they spotted animals or birds and invited them to shoot,

they remonstrated and said, "These arrows are not to be used against innocent

targets; they are to be used for the protection of the good, the welfare of the

world, and the service of the people. That is the purpose for which they are

with us; we shall not insult them, using them for

these silly pastimes", they averred and desisted. The teachers had to accept

their arguments. Every word, every deed of Rama demonstrated his compassion.

Sometimes, when Lakshmana aimed his arrow at a bird or animal, Rama came in

between and protested "Lakshmana! What harm has it done to you or the world?

Why do you long to shoot it? It is quite against the code of prescribed morals

for kings to punish innocent beings; don't you know?"

The Emperor often sat among his ministers with the princes near him, and

discussed with those around him the problems of political administration,

judicial trials and the application of moral principles in the governance of

the state. He related stories of their grandparents and others of the royal

line, how they earned the love and loyalty of their subjects, how they fought

wars with 'demons' and for 'gods' and how they won the Grace and support of God

in their endeavors. The father and the sons were both exhilarated when these

tales were told. Many a day, the ministers took turns in this pleasant task.

As they grew with the passage of years, the ministers became confident that they

could be entrusted with some fields of governmental activity. The people dreamt

that when they came of age and took hold of the reins of government, the earth

will be transmuted into heaven. When people saw the princes they felt a bond of

affectionate attachment springing between them. The conversation that ensued

among them was marked by sweet concord. The city of Ayodhya had no one who did

not love those simple, humble, virtuous, selfless Princes, or who did not

evince a desire to watch them. They were as dear to the children of Ayodhya as

their own bodies, as precious to the city as its own heart.

When they were in their eleventh or twelfth year, one day, Dasaratha called to

his presence the minister Sumanthra, who was the repository of virtue, and

commissioned him to arrange for teaching the princes the spiritual Science of

Liberation (the Paravidya). He said that however proficient a person may be in

secular sciences (Apara Vidhya), Para Vidhya alone can give him the strength to

carry out his Dharma (Rightful duties). The highest moral culture must be

imparted to them at this tender age itself.

Success or failure in later life was built upon the Impressions and experiences

gained in the early stages of life. The early years are the foundations for the

mansion of later years. Therefore he said, "Take the princes around the kingdom

and let them learn not only the condition of the people but also the holiness

of sacred places. Describe to them the sanctity of holy places, the history of

the temples and of the saints and sages who have consecrated them, and let them

drink deep the springs of divinity that are hallowing those spots. I feel it

will be good if they do so. As they grow, they will be prone to sensual desires

and urges. Ere they fall a prey to such tendencies, it is best to implant in

them reverence and awe, and devotion to the Divine, that is immanent in the

Universe. That is the only means to

save their human-ness from demeaning itself into animality. And for rulers of

kingdoms, it is essential. Consult the Guru and the preceptors and arrange the

tour without delay."

Elated at the prospect of the princes getting this great opportunity Sumanthra

had all preparations made to his satisfaction; he got ready himself to

accompany them. The Queens came to know of the pilgrimage that the Princes were

undertaking. They were delighted that the Princes were going on such a holy

venture and they made many things ready to render it as happy and useful as

possible. They arranged a few nurses for them and some comrades of their own

age to accompany them. The Princes too, were beside themselves with joy at the

prospect of visiting the sacred places of the land. They enthused their

companions and sought from the King equipment and clothes for them also.

The next day, when the auspicious hour specially selected for the journey was

on, the Princes bowed before their parents, touching their feet with their

foreheads; they fell at the feet of the Preceptor; the mothers placed holy dots

on their foreheads and cheeks to ward off the evil eye and to guard them against

evil; they discarded royal robes and put on the habiliments of pilgrims, that is

to say, silk dhotis round the waist and silk shawls wrapped round the shoulders

and, taking leave of all, they ascended the chariot. The palace resounded with

shouts of victory rising from thousands of citizens who had gathered to see

them off. The chariot moved on with guards before and behind.

Days, weeks, even months rolled by! They went to every temple and sacred spot;

they imbibed the holiness of each place; they worshipped at each shrine with

faith and devotion, they learnt after deep enquiry the history of each place

and the antecedents of the shrines; they ignored every other thought or

activity during all that long period. Sumanthra was describing to them the

sanctity of each place so graphically and intimately that their hearts were

thrilled. The Princes plied him with questions demanding further and deeper

elaboration of his narrations, Sumanthra was overjoyed at the insatiable

yearning of the boys, and he gave even more information and inspiration,

Thus they journeyed from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, and from the eastern sea to the

western, spending more than three months. They had their eyes open to the

sufferings of the people and the discomforts of the pilgrims in every region of

the empire, and whenever they observed these, they pleaded with Sumanthra, the

Minister, to set things right and to provide the needed amenities.

They were responsible for the repair and improvement of many temples, the

provision of drinking water wells, the planting of avenue trees, the opening of

centers for the distribution of water to thirsty wayfarers, the building of

caravanserais, and the establishment or health centers. Whenever Rama expressed

a desire that such amenities be provided. Sumanthra never hesitated to agree; he

saw to it that they were immediately provided to his satisfaction. The Princes

derived great comfort that the empire had such a loyal and efficient Minister

as Sumanthra; they said to each other that when they had such ministers welfare

and progress were assured.

Accounts of the pilgrimage of the Princes were conveyed to Ayodhya by special

couriers who ran in relays, forward and backward with news they collected.

Whenever delays occurred the Queens were weighed down by anxiety. They prayed

to the Preceptor Vasishtha to give them correct information regarding them.

Vasishtha had the yogic attainment to discover what was happening to them; so,

he used to tell them the reassuring news that they were happy, healthy and

hearty and that they would soon be returning to the capital. The mothers

derived courage and confidence therefrom. The Preceptor blessed them and

repaired to his hermitage.

Meanwhile, the news-gatherers brought good tidings. They said that the Princes

were nearing Ayodhya; they must be reaching the City within two days!

Arrangements were therefore made at the main Gateway of the City to welcome

into the Imperial Capital the four Princes, who had successfully gone through

their long and arduous pilgrimage and earned meritorious renown by their

devotion and compassion during their triumphal tour. Rosewater was sprinkled on

the roads to make them dust-free. Arches and festoons were put up. On both sides

of the road, women stood with plates on which they had placed lamps, with bright

flames, which they desired to wave before them as they passed along.

The Princes arrived at the Gate, as announced; lamps were waved before them;

they moved along the main high-way, which was strewn with petals of fragrant

flowers; parties of musicians and minstrels singing welcome songs proceeded

slowly in advance. Brahmins recited hymns invoking the blessings of God upon

the distinguished scions of the Imperial family. Sumanthra came alongside the

Princes, who were shining with an ethereal glow on their faces.

When they reached the palace gates, many rites were gone through to ward off the

effects of the evil eye; they were then led into the inner apartments. The

mothers whose eyes were longing to look upon them were awaiting them there; the

boys ran towards them and fell at their feet. They were raised up and held fast

in close embrace for five or six minutes, during which they lost themselves in

the thrill of joy, which enveloped both mother and son in the bliss of Mergence

with the Divine! The tears that rolled from the eyes of the mothers out of the

surgence of the love bathed the heads of the boys. They took hold of their sari

ends and wiped the heads dry with them. They stroked the hair, they fondled the

head, they seated them on their laps, and fed them fondly with sweet rice and

curd-mixed

rice.

Ah! The excitement and thrill of the mothers were indescribable. The pang of

separation, which they had suffered for three long months, could be assuaged a

little, only by having the children in their care and custody, day and night,

for a few days. They wanted them to relate the story or their pilgrimage, and

the boys narrated in sweet, simple, sincere style the sacredness of each holy

place, as explained to them by Sumanthra. They listened to these narratives

with such ardour and faith that they too seemed to experience the exhilaration

each shrine provides for the earnest pilgrims.

Dasaratha celebrated the return of the young Princes from their holy journey by

offering oblations to the Gods, and arranging a magnificent banquet for all

Brahmins who had successfully completed the pilgrimage to Kasi and Prayag. He

gave the latter monetary gifts too. Thus, since the day when the princes were

born, it was one continuous round of festival and feast in the capital city and

in the kingdom. The city of Ayodhya shone with uninterrupted rejoicing. Feasting

and festive entertainment knit the populace into a family, bound by love and

gratitude. Every month, the days on which the children were born (the ninth,

tenth and eleventh days of the bright half) were filled with gorgeous ceremony,

to mark the happy event. Even when the boys were away on pilgrimage, these days

were celebrated as grandly as if

they were in the City; except for functions where their physical presence was

needed, all else - the feasts, the gifts, the games, the dance - were all gone

through with enthusiasm. The parents noticed a change in the boys as a result

of the pilgrimage. The transformation was very surprising and they hoped that

the strange ways or life they had assumed might weaken with the passage of

days. They watched their behaviour and attitudes with great attention. But they

continued, with no sign or diminution.

Rama stayed mostly indoors. He did not bathe at fixed hours as he was doing so

far. He had a dislike to wear royal robes; he desisted from delicacies; he

never sat on the golden throne; he appeared as if he was immersed in the

contemplation of the Absolute, of something beyond the senses and the mind.

Since their brother appeared so morose and was ostensibly sulking, the three

younger brothers always kept near him. They never left his presence, for games

or for any other reason.

The four used to gather in a room and holt themselves in. The mothers had to tap

the door at intervals to bring in their food! However hard they tried to

discover why they behaved so, they never revealed the reason! Rama alone

deigned to answer their queries thus: "This is my nature; why seek to know the

reason for my being so?"

The mothers soon felt that this state of things could no longer be kept away

from gaze; they informed Dasaratha; he sent word that the boys be brought to

his apartments. But, finding that the sons, who previously would have rushed

in, took a long time to come, he was filled with wonder and worry. He made

ready to proceed to their room himself. Just then, the attendant announced that

the princes were approaching! The father was overwhelmed with bliss; he embraced

them and held them tight to his breast; he sat, with the sons on both sides; he

enquired from them about things, light and serious. Formerly, if he asked just

one question, the boys used to reply to ten: but, that day, when he asked ten,

they scarce replied to one.

Dasaratha drew Rama on to his lap, and pleaded fondly with him, "Son! Why this

refusal to talk? Why this silence! What is it that you desire? What else have I

than you in the world? Tell me what you need? I shall fulfill it immediately,

without fail. Since you do not mix with the brothers and play with them as

formerly, they too are unhappy." Though the King lovingly stroked the chin and

looked at the face of Rama, Rama did not say anything more than that he was

quite content and needed nothing! Watching this strange behaviour, Dasaratha

grew anxious and agitated; tears welled up in his eyes. The boys remained

unaffected by his grief. The father spoke some soft words to them about how

sons should conduct themselves and sent them to their apartments in the Palace.

He called Sumanthra so that he might confer with him; he asked him whether

anything had happened during the pilgrimage to put the boys out of gear or

whether he had brought them back too soon when they were themselves eager to

visit a few more places of interest to them. Dasaratha plied him with so many

questions that Sumanthra was filled with surprise and apprehension. His lips

quivered as he replied: "Nothing happened during the journey to displease the

Princes, no difficulty was encountered. Every wish of theirs was honoured and

carried through. I gave away in charity as much as they wanted; I got built,

wherever they suggested, houses for pilgrims; there was no hesitation or delay.

They never told me about any happening which they did not like. Nor did I notice

any such. The pilgrimage was one long journey

of joy and adoration".

Dasaratha knew his minister well. He said at last, "Sumanthra! You are a great

good man. I know full well that you are incapable of neglect or error. But, for

some inexplicable reason, I find the boys have undergone a transformation after

the pilgrimage; they have developed distaste for food and fun.

"However much the people around persuaded him, Rama did not answer, nor did he

indicate the reason for his strange behaviour. He was immersed in his own

awareness of the falsity of things. I am surprised at this. The queens, too,

have taken this so much to heart that they are being consumed by anxiety". When

Dasaratha spoke thus to Sumanthra, the loyal Minister replied, "If permitted, I

shall meet the children and try to diagnose the ailment." Dasaratha said,

"Quite right! Proceed at once. Once we find the cause, the remedy isn't

difficult, the cure isn't far".

Sumanthra hurried to the children's apartment, heavy with a load of anxiety in

his heart. He found the doors bolted from inside, the guards standing outside

them. When Sumanthra tapped, Lakshmana opened the door and let him in. He

closed the door behind him and conversed with the boys for long on various

matters, in order to draw out from them the reason for their malady. But, he

could not delve into the mystery. He noticed the difference between the

confiding spirit of camaraderie, which he enjoyed during the months of

pilgrimage, and the distance that had grown in recent months. He pleaded with

Rama with tears in his eyes, for revealing to him the reasons for his

melancholy. Rama smiled and said, "Sumanthra! What reason can be given for

something, which is my very nature? I have no wants; I have no desire. You

need have no anxiety on that score".

Unable to do anything else, Sumanthra came to where Dasaratha was and sat beside

him. "I feel it will be good to invite the Guru tomorrow and consider which

measures are proper", he said and departed from the presence, after taking the

King's permission to leave.

The King was sad; he neglected everything else; he ignored the demands of empire

and spun many theories in his mind to account for the behaviour of the children.

They are entering the years of adolescence and so, such temperamental

revolutions are natural, he surmised. He shared this opinion with the Queens

and set his mind at rest, for a little while.

When they learnt that the Preceptor Vasishta was arriving at the Palace, the

queens made the preparations necessary, and waited for him at the family altar.

Just then, the Guru arrived; all fell at his feet; they showered eager questions

on him about the peculiar malady of the boys and the change that had come upon

them. They were all in tears. Noticing the agitation of the King and the

Queens, Vasishta turned his attention inwards and sought the reason for the

sorrow, through inner Vision. The truth was quickly revealed to his penetrating

purity. Within seconds, he turned towards the Queens and assured them. "There is

nothing wrong with the boys. These are not just ordinary children. They are free

from the least trace of worldly desire. Their minds are untarnished. Do not get

anxious. Bring them to me; you can

retire now to your apartments."

The King and Queens were happy at this assurance; they sent for the princes and

left. Lakshmana, Bharatha and Satrughna quickly got ready to meet the Guru,

when the news that he wanted them reached their ears. But, Rama evinced no

haste. He was immersed in himself, as usual. So, Lakshmana touched his feet and

prayed, "It is best we go without delay; or else, our parents will grieve that

we dared disobey the command of the Preceptor". Lakshmana pleaded with Rama

insistently for a long time, advancing various arguments. Finally, Lakshmana,

Bharatha and Satrughna were able to proceed to the altar room, with their

eldest brother. There, they fell at the Feet of the Guru and reverentially

stood before him.

Seeing them, Vasishta asked them with great affection to draw near and sit

beside him. They all sat close to him, but Vasishta wanted Rama to come still

nearer. He fondled Rama lovingly, playing with his hair and patting his back.

He said, "Rama! Why have you thus become quiet and silent? Your mothers and

father are suffering from grief and fear, unable to explain this inscrutable

change. You have to pay heed to their happiness too, isn't it? You have to

demonstrate the validity of the precious axioms, Mathru Devo Bhava (Treat the

mother as God) Pithru Devo Bhava (Treat the father as God) by your own action,

isn't it?" Vasishta placed before Rama many such lessons and truths for his

consideration.

Rama sat smiling, listening to the Guru. When he had finished, he spoke calmly,

"Master! You speak of mother; but who exactly is 'mother'? Who exactly is

'son'? Why, what exactly is 'body'? And what is the 'Jivi' (the individual)? Is

this objective world real? Or is the Supreme Soul real? This body is but the

image of the Supreme Soul isn't it? The five elements that comprise the

substance called 'body' are also the substance of the entire Universe. This

Universe is but the concatenation of the five elements isn't it? The elements

persist, in spite of all permutations and combinations. They have also a deeper

base. Without realizing this, if this created Universe is itself assumed to be

real, and if one yields to the fascination of this falsehood, if the truth were

discarded for the sake of the lie, what are we

to say of such colossal ignorance? What can the individual gain by ignoring the

Eternal Absolute Real Reality, the Atma?"

When Vasishta observed Rama raising such profound philosophical problems, he

noticed also a halo of bright rays of spiritual splendor that emanated and

surrounded his face! He knew that the Light was an indication of Divinity,

attempting to surge outwards! So, he wanted Rama himself to provide the answers

to the questions that Rama put forward. And the replies and explanations Rama

gave were verily the Voice of God. Vasishta could see this fact clearly. He

bowed his head before him, mentally, for fear of being noticed. He said, "Son!

I shall see you again in the evening", and left the palace, without even

meeting Dasaratha; he was so overcome by the illumination of the occasion. He

fondled the children with a joyous sense of gratitude and love.

Dasaratha saw the princes after some time; he too saw the strange Glow of Divine

Awareness shining in their countenances. He could not understand how, it

happened and he awaited the arrival of Vasishta in the evening. No sooner did

he enter the shrine than the children, the mothers and Dasaratha fell at his

feet and sat in their places with palms folded in prayerful humility.

All of a sudden, Rama surprised every one by asking a series of questions: "The

Jivi, the Deva, the Prakriti (Soul, God, Nature) what is the inter-relation

between these? Are these three, One? Or are they distinct entities? If One, how

did it become three and for what purpose? What is the unifying principle

underlying these? What benefit is gained by recognizing them as different,

giving up the cognition of the Unity?" The parents were aghast at the

profundity of these questions and the tender age of Rama. They became fully

merged in that stream of instruction and inquiry that showered precious axioms,

which shed light on the problems raised, as if Heaven answered the questions

raised by Earth! They forgot that Rama was their own child; the hours of the

night rolled by in the analysis and understanding of the

great monistic wisdom.

Vasishta saw that the words that flowed from the lips of Rama were indeed drops

of the Nectar of Immortality, which can ensure Peace for mankind; he blessed

the King and Queens and returned to the hermitage. The dialogues between Rama

and the Preceptor form the text of 'Yoga-Vasishta', a treatise, which is

meaningful and mellow. It is also referred to as the Ramagitha.

Rama spent his days immersed in Vedanta, communing with himself, talking while

alone to himself, silent in company, and often laughing at nothing in

particular. Dasaratha grew concerned. He was worried what would happen to the

brothers; he sought to keep the younger three apart; but, they never agreed to

be isolated from Rama; so, they had to be left in his company always.

The King and the Queens were very much depressed, for all their dreams of joy

and glory had come to naught. They became desperate, for they saw no sign of

recovery or transformation in the sons. They counted hours and minutes, passing

the time in anxiety and prayer. Rama had no interest even in food and so with

irregular and indifferent meals, he appeared weak and wasted in health.

Chapter 6(a)The Call and the first Victory

During those days in the region east of Ayodhya, the royal city, the sage

Vishwamitra was engaged in rigorous asceticism. He resolved upon a holy rite,

known as Yajna. But, however often he inaugurated it, the demons desecrated the

rite and fouled its sanctity. They showered pieces of flesh on the sacred area

and made it unfit for such Vedic ceremonies. In many other ways, too, they cast

obstacles and halted the holy mission. Vishwamitra was at his wits' end; he went

to the capital city of the empire, Ayodhya, to meet the Ruler himself.

When reports arrived of the coming of the sage, the King sent his ministers to

bring him with due honors into the Palace. They welcomed him at the City Gate

and accompanied him right up to the Palace door. At the Palace Brahmins recited

Vedic hymns, while Dasaratha washed his feet and, as laid down in the sacred

texts and as is customary in receptions of sages, he sprinkled upon his own

head drops of the water so sanctified. Vishwamitra was led into the inner

apartments and seated on a high chair, with the members of the royal court

standing reverentially around him. "This is indeed a great day!" exclaimed

Dasaratha. He expressed his joy at the unexpected arrival of the holy personage

and the opportunity he gained to serve and honour him. Vishwamitra directed the

King and the ministers to sit and they

obeyed.

The sage graciously enquired about the health and welfare of the King and royal

family, and about the peace and prosperity of the kingdom. He asked him whether

his reign was marked by strength and security and whether his government was

ensuring the continued progress of his subjects. Dasaratha replied that, as a

result of the Grace of God and the blessings of saints and sages, his subjects

were dutifully and gladly engaged in their several tasks without fear of

failure and that the administration had before it the steady promotion of the

welfare of the people. He said that his government was serving the people in

many ways to promote and preserve their happiness and security. Dasaratha

yearned to know the reason for the sage's arrival. He assured him that he was

ever ready to fulfill his least desire. He

declared with great devotion that he will discharge earnestly any duty that the

sage may cast on him. He was only waiting to know what he could do for him.

Vishwamitra nodded his head in approval.

He turned towards Dasaratha and said, "I shall not declare now, before you, that

you are a very righteous ruler, that you revere guests and supplicants, and that

you are the embodiment of faith and devotion; the fact that the empire is happy

under your rule is enough evidence of this. The welfare of the subjects depends

on the character of the rulers. People will have peace or will suffer anxiety,

when the rulers are either good or bad. Wherever I have enquired, I am told it

is only in Ayodhya that we have a people full of love and loyalty to the

sovereign and a sovereign full of affection and regard to his people. In every

nook and corner of your kingdom, I hear this heartening news! Therefore, I know

that your words come straight from the heart. I have not the least doubt; you

will not deviate from your

promise. You will adhere to the word once given".

These words of the sage moved Dasaratha deeply. "Great men will engage

themselves only in activities that help the world. And, whatever they do, they

will not stray from the injunctions of the scriptures. There must be a good

reason for whatever they contemplate, they are prompted by the Divine will in

every act of theirs. So, I am ever willing, with all the resources at my

command, to serve you and fulfill your slightest wish", he replied. Dasaratha

vowed again and again that he would carry out the sage's command.

This made the sage very glad. "Yes! As you said, we do not emerge from our

hermitages without reason. I have come to you on a high purpose! Listening to

your enthusiastic response, I am doubly happy! I am filled with joy that my

errand has borne fruit". "You will stand by your promise, will you not," asked

Vishwamitra! Dasaratha replied without delay, "Master! You should, perhaps, ask

others such a question; but Dasaratha is not the person to break the pledged

word! He will give up his life rather than bring dishonour on himself, going

back on his promise. What greater treasure can a monarch have than morality and

integrity? They alone stand by him as sources of strength while discharging his

manifold responsibilities. If these two are lost, the kingdom becomes a mansion

without light; a wilderness beset with

apish vagaries and factional fights. It will be torn by anarchy and terror. In

the end, the king will meet with disaster. I am certain that such a calamity

can never overwhelm my dynasty for ages to come. Therefore, without

entertaining any shadow of doubt, tell me the mission that brought you to

Ayodhya, and accept the service that this devoted servant is ready to offer".

Vishwamitra said, "No, no! I had no doubt in my mind. I simply uttered those

words in order to hear this assertion of your steady adherence to truth! I know

that the Ikshwaku rulers are intensely wedded to the duty of fulfilling the

spoken word. Well! I require from you only one thing now. It is neither wealth

nor vehicles, neither cows nor gold, nor regiments nor attendants. I need only

two of your sons, Rama and Lakshmana, to accompany me. What do you say to

this", the sage asked?

At this, Dasaratha lost balance; he fell back and could not recover soon.

Regaining his composure after some time, he gasped for courage to utter a few

words. He said, "Master! Of what use will those boys be for you? I can better

fulfill the mission on which you intend to take those boys, don't you think so?

Give me the chance. Let me make my life worthwhile. Tell me what it is; I shall

derive joy there from". The sage replied, "My firm belief is that the task

which these boys can fulfill can be undertaken by no one else. They alone can

accomplish this task; neither your millions nor even you can carry it out! Boys

such as these have not been born before! Nor will such be born again! This is my

conviction.

"Listen! I resolved upon the performance of a celebrated Yajna (sacrificial

rite). But as soon as I enter upon its preliminaries evil spirits and demons

assemble from nowhere and cause sacrilegious obstruction. They cause

interruptions and pile hindrances. I want these boys to ward off those demons

and save the Yajna from these abominations, so that I can bring it to a

successful conclusion. This is my purpose, my desire. What do you say now?"

asked Vishwamitra, in a serious stentorian voice.

The King replied, "Master! These tender little boys, how can they perform such a

tremendous task? I am here, most willing and most ready. I shall come with my

chariotry, infantry, cavalry and elephantry and guard the area of the sacrifice

and your hermitage; I shall see that the Yajna is conducted with full success

without the least interruption. I have some experience in fighting against

these demoniac forces, since, as you know, I fought for the Gods against them

and brought them victory. I can do it quite easily. I shall make arrangements

to accompany you even now. Permit me to do so", he appealed.

Hearing these words, the sage said, "0 King! I am not satisfied in spite of all

that you say. I assert once again, you cannot accomplish this assignment. Can

you not realize that it is beyond even me who is acclaimed as well-nigh

omnipotent and omniscient? How then can you take up this task and succeed? You

consider these boys just ordinary children; this is a mistake resulting from

the affection you have as the father. I know full well that they are the Divine

Might itself in human Form. Do not hesitate. Keep your word so solemnly given

and send them this very moment with me. Or else, accept that you are not true

to your word; I shall depart. Do either of these, quick! This is no occasion

for wavering and delay!" The King was frightened by the sharpness of the sage's

voice. He was overwhelmed by fear. In

despair, Dasaratha wanted that his preceptor be invited to court. Vasishta came

in and on seeing Vishwamitra; they exchanged smiles and words of mutual

respect. Vasishta heard from the King an account of all that had happened. Of

course, Vasishta knew quite well the Divine Reality of the boys; so, he decided

to advise the King not to have the least worry, but entrust the boys gladly to

the loving custody of the sage.

Dasaratha pleaded that the boys were not keeping good health for some months and

that they did not have even the physical stamina to engage in battle with the

demons. "We are concerned since long about their health and now this demand for

them has come like a jab on a painful sore. My mind does not agree in the least

to send them forth to encounter the demons. I shall guard my children even at

the risk of my own life", lamented the King.

Vishwamitra intervened and said. "King! Why do you foolishly lament in this

manner? You should have desisted from making promises, which you could not

fulfill. It is an act of dark sin when a ruler makes a promise without

considering the pros and cons and then, when he is asked to execute it, to

delay, retract and even to go counter to the promise. This is most unworthy of

kings like you. I spurn the help you offer, sorrowfully. Help rendered, however

small, if it comes from the deeper urges of service welling in the heart is as

good as the offer of life itself. Half-hearted and hesitating help, however

great, is deplorable. I have no desire to cause pain and extract help from you.

Well! Be happy with yourself and your sin, I am leaving." Vishwamitra rose and

attempted to move off. The King fell at his feet and

prayed for more light and more time. He asked that he might be taught his duty.

He pleaded with the sage to convince him of the fairness of his demand, so that

he could fulfill his plan.

At this, Vasishtha called Dasaratha to his side and counseled him. He said,

"King! You are coming in the way of an imminent cosmic revelation, a mighty

fulfillment. Since your heart is affected by parental affection, the truth is

veiled before you. Your sons will come to no harm. No, never. There is no

height of heroism that is beyond them. Formidable Divine Forces have taken

these human forms for the very purpose of destroying demons and demoniac

powers. So, without further delay, send for the boys. You should not calculate

now their physical strength or the measure of their intelligence. Calculate

rather the Divine that is bubbling up from them every minute of their lives.

There is no strength which can stand up to that, remember!" After some more

advice on these lines, Vasishtha sent for the Princes, Rama and

Lakshmana. As soon as they heard that the sages Vishwamitra and Vasishtha wanted

them, both of them rushed along and entering the hall, bowed in reverence.

First, they fell at the feet of the father, then at the feet of Vasishtha, the

family Preceptor, and next, at the feet of Vishwamitra. With a smile playing on

his lips, Vishwamitra addressed the boys when they rose and stood reverentially

on one side. He said, "Boys! Will you come with me?" The boys were elated at

the prospect.

On hearing this, Dasaratha was further disheartened; his face turned pale. Rama

saw his father sorrowing over his approval; he approached him softly and said,

"Father! Why are you sad when I am going with the great Sage? Is there any

better way of utilizing this body than putting it at the service of others?

This body has been given to us for that very purpose. And, to share in the holy

tasks of ascetics and to be able to grant them some relief from harassment, is

this not high use? There is nothing impossible for us, is there? We will

destroy the demons (the Rakshasas), however fierce they may be and bring peace

to the sages. If permitted, we are ready to start off this very minute". These

words charged with courage served to reduce to some extent the anxiety of

Dasaratha.

But, the King was still struggling; he could not decide what to say. He drew

Rama to himself and told him, "Son! The Rakshasas are no ordinary foes! Reports

say that among them are Sunda, Upasunda, Maricha, Subahu etc. These are

atrociously cruel. Their physical appearance is indescribably horrid; you have

had no occasion yet to look upon such terrifying forms. I cannot contemplate

the moment when you come face to face with them. How can you battle with those

tricksters who are adepts at camouflage and physical transformations? You have

not so far heard even the word 'battle'! Nor have you seen actual combat on the

field. And you are now suddenly called to fight such formidable foes! Alas!

Destiny is indeed very cruel! Alas! Have my sons to face on the very threshold

of their lives this monstrous

ordeal?"

With these thoughts revolving in his mind, Dasaratha shed profuse tears out of

the anguish of his heart. Lakshmana noticed his father's mental weakness. He

said, "Father! Why these tears! We are not timid girls! The battlefield is our

legitimate arena; war is our rightful duty, the safeguarding of righteousness

is our genuine responsibility. The service of sages and the maintenance of

moral codes are our very breath. I am surprised you are sad that we go on such

a glorious errand! The world will laugh at you for this display of weakness.

Send us with your love and blessings. I too will accompany my brother and

return with the glory of Victory."

Rama saw his father overpowered by affection for him; he moved towards the

throne and held his hand lovingly. He said, "Father! It appears you have

forgotten who you are. Bring into your memory who you are, in which royal

family immortalized by which forefathers you were born, and how much fame they

had attained. Then, you will not weep as you are doing now. You took birth in

the Ikshwaku dynasty. Till this day, you have spent your years, as the very

embodiment of Dharma. The three worlds have acclaimed you as the dutiful

observer of vows, as the guardian and practitioner of Dharma, and as the most

redoubtable hero on the battlefield, as well as elsewhere. You are aware that

there is no greater sin than retracting the word once given. Going back on the

word you have given to the sage will tarnish your fair fame.

Your sons cannot tolerate this ill fame. When you cannot act according to your

word, you can have no share in the merit of the sacrifices performed by you or

even of the beneficial acts done by you like digging wells, and planting trees.

Why dilate? We, your sons feel that it is a mark of disgrace, for which we have

to bend our heads, even to listen to the talk that Dasaratha broke his plighted

word. This is an indelible blot on the reputation of the dynasty itself. Your

affection for your sons is blind; it is not based on discrimination. It will

bring on us punishment, not protection. If really you are moved by affection

towards us, you should pay attention to the promotion of our fame, shouldn't

you? Of course, we are in no position to advise you. You know all this. Your

affection has drawn you into this miasma of ignorance; it has made it difficult

for you to recognize your duty. As for us, we have not the slightest shred of

fear. The Bride of Victory will certainly espouse us.

Do not hesitate; bless us and entrust us to the sage." Rama pleaded thus, and

bending his head low, he touched the feet of his father.

Dasaratha drew Rama to himself and fondled his head; he said, "Son! All you have

said is true. They are gems of great worth. I am not a fool to deny them. I

shall proceed this moment with my four-winged army and protect the sacrificial

ceremony of this sage at the cost of all that I possess. But, my mind does not

accept the proposal to send you, just now being trained in the arts of war and

weaponry, into the arms of those demoniac Rakshasas. No father will knowingly

offer into the tiger's paw the sons he has borne. And, is it right for you too

to plunge us into the flames of grief? We gained you through austerity, and

fostered you as the very breath of our lives? Alas! What can any one do when

destiny itself is against us? I shall not blame you or any one else; it is the

consequence of the sins I have myself

committed".

Dasaratha bewailed thus, with his hand upon his head. At this, Rama broke into a

smile. He said, "Father! What is this weakness? You speak of thrusting us into

the tiger's mouth! Haven't you realized yet that we are not goats to be so

offered? Believe us to be lion cubs, send us on this sacred task with your

blessings. Kings must not delay sacred tasks!" Hearing these rather sharp

remarks of Rama. Vasishtha rose, saying, "Excellent! Dasaratha! Did you hear

the lion's roar? Why the jackal howls hereafter? Arise! Send the message to the

mothers and fetch them; place your sons at the service of Vishwamitra." Hearing

these words, Dasaratha felt he could not do anything else than obey; he sent

word that the Queens come into the presence.

The Queens put in their appearance with veils over their heads; they touched the

feet of the sages and of Dasaratha and afterwards, they moved towards the

children and stood by their side, fondling with loving fingers the crown of

their heads. Vasishtha spoke to them first. He said, "Mother! Our Rama and

Lakshmana are ready to leave with Vishwamitra in order to guard his Yajna rite

from interference and obstruction by demoniac hordes; bless them before they

leave." As soon as she heard this, Kausalya raised her head in surprise saying:

"What is this I hear? Are these saplings to guard and protect the Yajna, which

the great Sage is celebrating? I have heard that the Mantras themselves with

their Divine potency will be the best armour; how can mere man dare take upon

himself the burden of saving the Yajna from

harm. The responsibility for the successful conclusion of the Yajna lies on the

rectitude of the participating priesthood".

This appeared to Vasishtha as correct; but yet, he thought it best to shed a

little more light on the situation. "Kausalya! Mother! The Yajna of Vishwamitra

is no ordinary rite! Many obstacles are affecting it and creating anxiety".

Vasishtha was continuing with his explanation when Kausalya intervened and

said, "I am really amazed to hear that anxiety overshadows the Yajnas performed

by sages and Rishis. I believe that no power can stand against any sacred

resolve. The sage is nursing this desire and craving for its fulfillment in

order to manifest the Supreme Light and Peace; that is my surmise. He might

have put forward this request in order to test the King's attachment to his

children. Or else, how can we believe that these tiny sprouts of tenderness

will guard from harm the Yajna that this sage, endowed

with all mystic and mysterious powers, is proposing to celebrate?"

While Kausalya was saying this, her hand caressing the head of Rama, Dasaratha

who was listening to her talk, suddenly realized the truth in a flash and

arrived at a bold decision. He said, "Yes! the words of Kausalya convey

authentic truth. This is but a plan to test me; I am certain about it. Master!

How can I, a weakling, encounter your test? I shall abide by your wish,

whatever it is!" With these words, Dasaratha fell at the feet of Vasishtha.

Vasishtha looked at him and said, "Maharaja! You have proven yourself worthy.

These boys are not of common stamp. Their skills and capacities are limitless.

We know this. Others do not know. This occasion is but the inauguration of

their triumphal march; it is the prologue to the history or their victorious

career. It is the taking on by them of the vow or

Dharma-rakshana, the Guardianship of Righteousness. They will return soon with

the Bride of Victory. Therefore, without further thought, hand them over gladly

to Vishwamitra."

Vasishtha called the boys to his side, and placing his auspicious palm on their

heads, he recited some hymns pronouncing his Blessings on them. The boys fell

at the feet of the mothers and received their blessings. They stood ready to

depart.

Dasaratha noticed the glow of joy and courage on their faces; he suppressed the

grief that was surging within him; he placed his hands on the shoulders of the

boys and came near Visvamitra; he fell at his feet and said, "These two, 0

Master, are from this day your sons; their health and happiness are dependent

on you; if you order that a few personal guards may be sent with them, I shall

gladly comply".

At this, Vishwamitra burst into laughter. "0! King, You are really insane! Is

there any one who can guard them, these heroes who are coming to free the Yajna

from obstruction? Do they need any? They are out to guard the Yajna, which we

cannot guard; do such mighty heroes need some one to protect them? Of course,

your affection has blinded you. King! I shall bring them with me to you when

the task for which I am taking them is accomplished. Do not worry. Rule over

the kingdom without injustice or interruption."

Vishwamitra rose from the seat; every one offered reverential obeisance to the

great sage. He walked out of the hall first, and the two princes followed him.

TO BE CONTINUED

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