As the news of Rama's exile spread, sadness descended over the palace and the city of Ayodhya. The people of Ayodhya were heartbroken.
When Rama heard the news , he rushed to meet King Dasaratha and Kaikeyi. Rama saw his father sitting in a corner, tired and defeated. He realised that the only way to solve the problem was to acceptKaikeyi's demands and leave Ayodhya, because that would save not just his but also King Dasaratha's honour and pride.
Rama explained to his father that Bharata was more capable than him and therefore, deserved to be made the king. He said that he wanted to lead a spiritual life and a luxurious life in the palace would come between him and his wish to be with God. Finally, Rama said that he was duty-bound to fulfill his parents' wishes and did not want to hurt them.
Rama touched his parents' feet to take their blessing and quietly left the room. |