The story of Lord Ram is one of devotion, courage, and righteousness. A significant part of this epic tale, the Ramayana, focuses on the period of Ram’s exile until the abduction of his beloved wife, Sita. This phase highlights Ram’s character, his unwavering commitment to dharma (righteousness), and the trials ram faced in the forest.
The Reason for Exile (vanvas)
- The story of Ram’s exile begins in the beautiful kingdom of Ayodhya. King Dasharatha, Ram’s father, decided to crown Ram as the next king, a decision that brought joy to everyone in the kingdom. However, this announcement made Kaikeyi, Dasharatha’s second queen, very unhappy. She had once saved the king’s life and was granted two boons (wishes) as a reward. Influenced by her maid, Manthara, Kaikeyi decided to use these boons to send Ram into exile and make her own son, Bharat, the king instead.
- Heartbroken but bound by his word, King Dasharatha had no choice but to fulfill Kaikeyi’s demands. He informed Ram that he must leave for the forest for 14 years. Despite the heartbreak, Ram accepted his fate without complaint. His sense of duty and respect for his father’s wishes demonstrated his strong character.
The Departure to the Forest
Sita and Ram’s loyal brother, Lakshman, insisted on accompanying Ram into exile. Sita believed that a wife should be with her husband in both good times and bad, while Lakshman was determined to protect his brother. The three of them left Ayodhya, bidding farewell to their family and the people who loved them.
The people of Ayodhya were devastated by Ram’s departure. King Dasharatha was deeply saddened by the situation, and his grief led to his untimely death shortly after Ram left.
Life in the Forest
- In the forest, Ram, Sita, and Lakshman faced many challenges. They lived in simple huts and learned to adapt to the wilderness. Ram showed resilience and strength as he led his family through the hardships of forest life. They moved from one forest to another, including Chitrakoot and Dandaka, living in harmony with nature.
- During their time in exile, they encountered several sages and protected them from demons that roamed the forests. Ram’s bravery earned him the respect of many, and his reputation as a noble warrior spread far and wide. Lakshman, devoted to his brother, built shelters and stood guard to protect them.
Encounters with Demons
- One of the most significant events during their exile was Ram and Lakshman’s encounter with Surpanakha, the sister of Ravana. Surpanakha, who was enchanted by Ram’s looks, approached him, but he rejected her advances. Furious and jealous, she attacked Sita. In defense of his wife, Lakshman drew his sword and cut off Surpanakha’s nose.
- This act infuriated Surpanakha, and she went to her brother, Ravana, seeking revenge. This moment marked a turning point in the story, as it would lead to the eventual abduction of Sita by Ravana, setting off a series of events that would challenge Ram and change the course of their lives forever.
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