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It was time for Rāma and His two companions to say Their farewells. Holding Their weapons and followed by Sītā, …

“Here passes the same Rāma who before would move regally in state, followed by a huge retinue,” said the people. …

Some citizens censured the king, whom they felt had been gripped by some evil spirit. How could he send his …

The citizens could not face the prospect of Rāma’s departure. They felt pain, just as a tree with all its …

Everyone feared the prospect of Kaikeyi becoming powerful as the mother of the king. They angrily cursed her again and …

The two brothers heard the laments of the people, but they kept Their minds under strict control. Smiling gently and …

Ordering his minister to show Rāma in, the king also asked that all his wives be present. Sumantra brought the …

Rāma and Lakṣman, both crying, lifted Their father and placed him gently on a couch. As the king returned to …

Rāma calmly awaited His father’s permission. The king spoke with difficulty. “As a result of a promise made to Kaikeyi …

Fixed in righteousness, Rāma replied, “May you rule the earth for another thousand years. I have no desire for sovereignty. …

Daśaratha was mortified, but he saw Kaikeyi urging him on with covert gestures. Bound by the fetters of truth he …

The king was devastated. He could see that Rāma’s decision to depart was firm and not to be reversed. Rāma …

Hearing of His father’s request, Rāma became concerned. He did not wish to delay His departure any longer and said, …

Rāma moved closer to His anguished father, who sat shaking his head. He asked the king to be firm and …

Rāma felt sorrow to see His father suffering such intense agony. Not wanting to increase His father’s pain, however, Rāma …

Rāma added, “I shall never accept the kingdom by bringing infamy to you, O king. Indeed, I could renounce every …

Daśaratha, tormented by a burning agony, embraced Rāma tightly and then again fell unconscious, showing no signs of life. All …

“Here lies your husband, the support of the whole world, betrayed and forsaken by you, O queen. Surely there is …

Tears flowed from the old minister’s eyes as he spoke. He told Kaikeyi to renounce her evil aim. If her …

“The glorious king will never belie his promise to you. Do not force him to perform an act repugnant to …