RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – 2

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Om Sri Sai Ram

RAMAKATHA RASAVAHINI – PART – 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

 

The 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