Original Valmiki Ramayana

Sri Ramayana Part 5: Vishwamitra's arrival and battle with Tataka

2012-09-22T16:19:00.000-07:00

जय श्री राम !

( Jai Sri Ram )

शुक्ल अम्बरा धरां विष्णुं,

शशि वर्णं चतुर भुजं ।

प्रसन्ना वदनं ध्यायेत्,

सर्व विघ्न उपाशन्तयेत् ॥

( Shuklambharadaram vishnum,
Shashivarnam chaturbhujam |

prasannavadanam dhyayet,

sarva vigna upshantayet || )

नमस्ते अस्तु भगवन् विश्वेश्वराय महादेवाय त्रियम्बकाय त्रिपुरान्तकाय त्रिकग्निकालाय ,

कालाग्निरुद्राय निलकन्ताय मृत्युञ्जयाय सर्वेश्वराय सदाशिवाय श्रीमन् महादेवाय नमः ।

( Namaste astu bhagawan Vishveshvaraya, Mahadevaya Triyamabakaya Tripurantakaya Trikaganikalaya,

Kalagnirudraya Nilakantaya Mrityunjayaya Sarveshvaraya Sadashivaya Sriman Mahadevaya namah | )

वनमाली गदी शन्गी शङ्की चक्री च नन्दकी ,

श्रीमन् नारायणो विष्णु वसुदेवोभि रक्षतु ।

( Vanamali gadhisangi shanki chakri cha nandaki,

Sriman Narayano Vishnu Vasudevobhi rakshatu | )

सर्व चैतन्य रूपां ताम् आध्यं विद्यां च धीमहि
बुदिं यो नः प्रचोदयात्

( Sarva chaitanya rupaam tamadhyam vidyam cha dhimahi

budhim yo nah prachodayat )

सदाशिव समारम्भां व्यास शंकर मध्यमाम् ।

भारती थीर्थ पर्यन्तां वन्दे गुरु परम्परां ॥

( Sadhashiva samarambham vyasa shankara madyamam

bharathi theertha paryantam vande guru paramparam )

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Sri Ramayana(Bala Kaanda) Part 5:

Vishwamitra's arrival and battle with Tataka

Emperor Dasharatha was delighted with his children and their righteous conduct. Now, he was anxious to find suitable brides for his young princes. He wished to find the brides who could complement the righteous conduct of his children, otherwise he feared a wicked bride would spoil the character of his children as well. Thus, for the purpose of finding the suitable brides for the four young princes, Dasharatha assembled the court of all his ministers, intellectuals and kulaguru.

Dasharatha ordered his ministers," I want you to find a suitable bride for my dear Rama. Also seek a suitable bride for my sons Bharata, Lakshmana and Shatrughna..." While he was still issuing these instructions, suddenly entered into the palace of Dasharatha the great muni Vishwamitra who had extraordinary splendour and great energy.

The great muni approached the entrance and then spoke to the doorkeepers ,"I am the son of Gadhi and Kushika, I am called as Kaushik. My name is Vishwamitra. I wish to meet your King, go and inform him about my arrival."

Vishwamitra inspired great fear as he had a reputation of being quick with his curses. Before he became a Brahmarshi, Vishwamitra had cursed many a people for simple reasons. This acquired him an ill reputation of being a cursing muni. The reputation of Vishwamitra preceded him wherever he went. The two doorkeepers were also aware of this reputation and were anxious not to displease the cursing muni. As soon as, the two doorkeepers heard the words of Vishwamitra, they scurried into the palace and landed in the royal court of Emperor Dasharatha.

They stepped into the large court room, bowed courteously and said,"Victory to you...oh Lord, the mighty muni Vishwamitra has arrived and is waiting at the entrance to meet you."

This was no ordinary guest who could be kept waiting. Emperor Dasharatha immediately rose from his throne and hurried towards the entrance to welcome the great muni. All the dignitories in the court also followed Dasharatha. Dasharatha was well aware that Vishwamitra could create another universe with a mere thought. He knew that displeasing such powerful muni would endanger his own welfare and the welfare of his kingdom. He was also conscious that Vishwamitra was known to curse for frivolous misgivings. And most importantly, Vishwamitra was vengeful of Vashishta maharshi. Infact, numerous sons of Vashishta maharshi were killed by the curse of Vishwamitra. Vashishta maharshi was Dasharatha's kulaguru. So, Dasharatha was apprehensive that the dislike that Vishwamitra had for his teacher may spill over onto Dasharatha and bring some kind of trouble for him, especially his beloved princes.

As these thoughts crossed the mind, Dasharatha reached the doorway and found Vishwamitra standing there. Valmiki Maharshi describes Vishwamitra as perceived by Dasharatha. Maharshi says that Vishwamitra standing majestically waiting at the entrance resembled a blazing flame of holy fire to Dasharatha. Vishwamitra's dazzling splendour and radiance was imposing. Dasharatha was gladdened at the holy sight of Vishwamitra and at the same time, frightened to imagine the consequencies if this splendid rishi was angered.

Dasharatha thought,"What a great rishi?!! What a marvellous splendour?!! I am truly blessed that this holy man has visited my palace..." The pleasant Dasharatha humbly offered argyam and padyam(marks of respect to a guest) to Vishwamitra maharshi.

Then, Dasharatha said to Vishwamitra," Oh esteemed muni, how are you? How is your health? You are a rajarshi, oh muni, you have performed rigorous tapasya and have attained the illustrous Brahamarshi-hood. Your splendour is unrivaled, great sir. My life is blessed with your arrival to my kingdom. Welcome. Welcome. Please step into my palace..."

Vishwamitra also serenely enquired the well-being of the Vashista maharshi. After that, Vishwamitra with a benign smile enquired the well-being of the Emperor Dasharatha. He asked the sovereign," Are you fine? Is your vast Kingdom secure? Are your vassals loyal? Are they doing well? Is your treasury secure and abundant? Is the populace in your kingdom prosperous and peaceful? Does your kingdom enjoy timely rains?..." In this manner, Vishwamitra patiently enquired extensively about the well-being of Dasharatha and his kingdom. Then, Vishwamitra entered the palace and others followed him. They strolled into the magnificent royal court. Dasharatha politely offered a suitable seat to his distinguished guest. And Vishwamitra adorned that seat.

The imposing sight of Vishwamitra, inspired great dread and equal admiration in Dasharatha's heart. He was reverentially fearful of the resplendent Vishwamitra, due to his past record as a cursing muni. Dasharatha was chiefly concerned that Vishwamitra's angry gaze should not fall upon his dear children. So, he resolved to be extra cautious by displaying his great devotion and high regard for Vishwamitra. He reflected in his mind thus," A great muni like Vishwamitra, who spends all his time in severe tapasya, does not go to any place without adequate reason. He must have come to my palace to seek my favour in some matter. Why wait till this powerful muni asks for something, why not promise him, beforehand, to do whatever his bidding. Then, the muni will be impressed with me and recognise my respect for him."

Dasharatha's conduct with regard to Vishwamitra maharshi has so far been blemishless. But now, in his anxiety to please Vishwamitra, so as to avoid his wrath, Dasharatha decided to promise to gift away anything that Vishwamitra asks for, without any knowledge of what Vishwamitra might ask. This hastiness was stimulated by the fatherly adoration of Dasharatha towards his children. Dasharatha was naive, he should have waited for the muni to explain the purpose of his arrival. Then, Dasharatha should have arrived at a conclusion depending on his own ability to perform the task that Vishwamitra wanted to be performed. That was the course even Dasharatha would have adopted normally. But the awe inspired by Vishwamitra, made Dasharatha blunder and he promised in advance, consequently was tied down by his own words. Thats why, in indian culture, one is advised to speak every word after carefully measuring it. Tol mol ke bol(speak after measuring carefully) is the message of sant kabirdas also.

Emperor Dasharatha who had already resolved to impress Vishwamitra by promising in advance to away any gift, elegantly spoke to Vishwamitra," Oh esteemed muni, I am indeed very fortunate that a person of your stature has arrived to my abode. You deserve(patrata) to be given any gift you that ask for. Please tell me, the reason for visiting me and I will promptly perform that task." These words spoken by Dasharatha were indeed brilliant but he was tied down by these very words, later.

There is another aspect in this: It is said that, whenever God wishes to gift great prosperity or well-being to you, then he creates a situation such that, some loyal devotee of the lord, would be forced by circumstances to seek your favour. A devotee, who usually does not stretch his arms for asking help from anyone, is forced to take your help due to a peculiar situation. If at this moment, you help this devotee, then you will be granted great prosperities and well-beings. On the other hand, if at this time, for some reason, you decline to help the needy devotee, then even your current wealth and security will be endangered. How does this fit into the karma theory? It is said that when a devotee of the god is helped by you, this Karma(deed) is used by the God to wash away the past accumalted sins which were obstructing your better fortune. Similarly, if this devotee inspired by the lord himself, is declined, then it will be counted as another sin adding to the already pile of sins. This results in greater problems. It can also be viewed as a final test that God puts you through before conferring great boons upon you. If you use your current wealth, might, knowledge, influence, popularity or power...etc in Lord's service or to help the needy devotees of God, then that qualifies you for further boons. And God showers many more boons upon you for you are using your talents in the right direction. If you act conversely, then the same God removes your present abilities as well, because you are not using them in the right way. If a son studies hard and becomes the class topper, then his father pleased with him will buy him a new video game. Conversely, if the son neglects the studies and spends all his time in playing video games, then his father will chastise him by taking away the current video games as well. God also acts in a similar manner. A virtuous conduct pleases the God. Helping his devotees pleases the lord. And when pleased, he showers abundance of wealth and well-being on you. But if you indulge in sinful behaviour, or if you refuse to help the devotees of the God, then the same God will chastise you by taking away even your present prosperity.

Bhagavatpada Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya's life illustrates this intricate truth. Bhagavatpada Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya(picture to the left) was born at Kalady in Kerala. Usually, a person is given a new name at the time of accepting Sanyasa Ashrama. In case of Adi Shankaracharya, his name before Sanyasa Ashrama was Shankara and even after adopting the Sanyasa Ashrama, he was peculiarly given the same name by his Guru. At the age of five, Shankara had a sacred thread ceremony and was solemnly sworn to Brahmacharya(bachelor life). A brahmachari(bachelor) is ordained to beg for alms and Shankara followed the religious ordinance. At the tender age of twelve, Shankara formally joined Sanyasa Ashrama with due permission of his mother Aryamba and became a Sanyasi for rest of his life. In Sanyasa Ashrama, he was again given the name of Sankara by his guru Gaudapadacharya. At the age of sixteen, Adi Shankaracharya finished writing commentaries on the Prasthana Trayam(the three literary works dealing with Moksha(salvation) namely Brahma Sutra, Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads. The commentaries that Adi Shankaracharya authored at the age of sixteen are held as the classsics and many experts refer to them for a better understanding of the three scriptures. At the age of thirty-two, Adi Shankaracharya had already been acknowledged as Jagadguru. He already established four matts at four corners of India to preserve Hinduism. At the time of Adi Shankaracharya, the different sects of Hinduism had deteriorated into cults. And each sect was engaged in verbal battling with the other sect to prove themselves as superior. Hindus were gradually moving away from the Vedic message. Hinduism itself was on the brink of extinction due to the rise of religions like Buddhism. At such crucial juncture, Adi Shankaracharya, revered as the incarnation of the Dakshinamurthi(a form of Shiva that grants Gyanam or Wisdom, see the picture to the right), reconciled the different sects of Hinduism, and reoriented them towards the message of Vedas. He defeated numerous eminents scholars in verbal duels and refuted their varied theories. He re-established the Advaita Siddhantha, the supreme truth, espoused by Vedas. He rejuvinated the Hinduism from the brink of extinction. Today, Hinduism is alive mainly due to the legacy of Shankaracharya. Thus, he is accepted as Jagadguru. In Sanatana Dharma(hinduism), there are three important gurus namely Bhagavan Valmiki, Bhagavan Vyasa and Bhagavatpada Adi Shankaracharya. These three compassionate guru figures have bestowed all the essential literature in Hinduism. Bhagavan Valmiki has gifted Srimad Ramayana to the mankind which contains the essence of all the Shastras(Scriptures). Bhagavan Vyasa has donated Mahabharata to the world. He had also sorted the Vedas and categorised them into four Vedas. He has also authored 18 puranas. Bhagavatpada Adi Shankaracharya, wrote commentories on the three scriptures dealing with Moksha. He rekindled Hinduism. He re-installed Advaita Siddhantam. He composed many devotional songs and hymns so as to take the religion to the most common man who cannot understand the complicated concepts of religion. His devotional songs are widely popular. These three gurus have together formed the vast Hindu literature. All the Hindus, infact all the mankind, is forever in their debt.

Adi Shankaracharya further established 4 peethams at four corners of India. The Southern Peetham was established at Sringeri(Karnataka) by the name of 'Sharada Peetham'. The Western Peetham at Dwarka(Gujarat) by the name of 'Kalika Peetham'. The Eastern Peetham at the Jagannath Puri(Orissa) by the name of 'Govardhan Peetham. The Northern Peetham was setup at Badrika Ashram(Uttranchal) by the name of 'Jyothi Peetham. These 4 Peeths play a pivotal role in the survival of Hinduism, particularly in the last thousand year period when India and hindus have gone through a horrid time under Adharmic rulers. Hinduism has been able to withstand the onslaught of barbaric invaders thanks to Adi Shankaracharya. Thus, Bhagavatpada Adi Shankaracharya must be thanked by all Hindus everyday.

Bhagavatpada Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya's life illustrates the intricate truth of how lord showers good fortune on those who help the devotees of the God. At the age of five, Shankara had thread ceremony and entered Brahmacharya(bachelor life). A Brahmachari(bachelor) is religiously ordained to beg for alms and Shankara duly followed the ordinance. He visited only a limited number of houses(perhaps only one house, I am not sure) to beg and if he did not get any alms from those houses, then he would fast that day. One day, Shankara went to an old brahmani's(wife of a brahmin) house for begging alms. It was a small thatched hut, Shankara called out and asked for alms. The old brahmani peeped out of her hut and saw a bright young child. Seeing the young kid ask for alms moved her. Then, she was filled with immense sorrow at her own plight. She was very destitute, herself. Her hut had nothing that could be given as alms to the young boy. She herself, had nothing to eat and was starving. Her husband had gone out to beg and he wore the only proper cloth in their house. So, the old lady did not even have a suitable cloth to wear. She covered herself with ragged cloth full of holes.

Now, this young child's call for alms saddened her at her own plight. In great despair, she thought," What is the utility of my living? I have suffered poverty all my life. I have not experienced any luxury in my life. I have accepted my destiny. But, now even this brilliant child will go without food today for merely arriving at my abode. I am truly cursed." This thought multiplied her distress. She resolutely decided that she must give something to the child. She frantically searched her small hut and found a small dried amla fruit.

She went to her door and saw the young Shankara who was patiently standing at the entrance of the house without even a frown on his face. She adored the child mentally as her son. She did not step out of her hut as she was not clothed properly. She offered the dry amla in her palm to the young Shankara as alms. She lamented loudly that she had nothing better to give and she was giving everything she had. Shankara took great pity over the misery of this old brahmani and accepted the dry amla. Then, Shankara prayed to the Goddess Lakshmi. Goddess Lakshmi is the presiding deity of wealth and prosperity . She is also the eternal consort of Sri MahaVishnu. Shankara prayed to her to relieve the poverty of the old brahmani. The young Shankara who was the age of about eight years, sang a beautiful hymn as a prayer to the Goddess Lakshmi asking her to kindly allievate the destitution of the old brahmani. The Goddess moved by Shankara's hymn and his kindness towards the old lady manifested herself.

Goddess Lakshmi appeared in the skies in her amazing form. A delicate smile adorned her lotus-like face. She told Shankara that the old lady did not have any positive Karma(Punyam) in her account. Further, this old lady had not given any Danam(donations) to anyone in her previous birth and hence she deserves to suffer the poverty. Then the young Shankara prayfully argued through his hymn thus," Oh Godddess! Take pity on this innocent child(old brahmani) of yours. Even if she has immense Papam(negative karma), are you not capable of brushing it aside? Also, she has just donated this amalaka fruit to me with great affection. Is this not enough to give her great prosperity and to release her from the scourge of poverty?"

The goddess of wealth, Sri Maha Lakshmi, kindly agreed with the young boy and immediately showered golden amlakas in the old lady's house. Thus, the old lady was relieved from her misery of poverty. The celebrated hymn that Sri Adi Shankaracharya sang on that occasion is popular as 'Kanakadhara Stotram'. It is considered a powerful hymn that has the power to shower great wealth and well-being on any person who sings it with devotion at dawn or dusk time.

The old lady's sufferings ceased, only because she had donated one dried amalaka to Shankara, a great devotee of god. So, God always becomes pleased when one of his devotees gets a donation, however miniscule the donation may be. That act of donation leads to great prosperity and peace. It clears the sins accumulated in the past(even previous birth) and clears the way to happiness.

That is called Patrata(Qualified-ness). A single amalaka in the right hand was enough to shower roomful of golden amlakas. Similarly, Vishwamitra's hand is not an ordinary hand. Anything given to him, will only bring great well-being. But if the same person is denied then the contrary effect will also be severe. The mighty Emperor Dasharatha recognised the importance of pleasing the sage and promised solemnly. But he did not take in account, what would happen if he had to deny Vishwamitra.

The Emperor Dasharatha courteously said to Vishwamitra,"Oh bhagavan! Today, my life has become a success with your arrival. You have come here and you will ask for something. I will gift it to you and that is enough for me for this life. This place has been consecrated with the touch of your holy feet. Please tell me, oh great muni, what favour do you wish from me? Anything that you ask, I am ready to donate..."

Vishwamitra delibrately kept silent and let the Emperor commit himself. So far, Vishwamitra did not even mention that he had come to ask for a favour. The ingenious Vishwamitra knew that Dasharatha may reject what he was going to ask him. He waited for Dasharatha to talk himself into a promise. Vishwamitra had come with a mission. Once Dasharatha promised, Vishwamitra with a pleasant smile said ,"Oh mighty Emperor! You are born in the illustrious Ikshawaku dynasty. You have rigorously followed Satya(truth) and Dharma(justice/religion). You have earned a good name in the three worlds with your adherence to Dharma. You are the disciple of the glorious Vashishta and your intellect has been cultured by Vashishta's teachings. No wonder, therefore oh Dasharatha, that you have spoken so beautifully."

Vishwamitra, the great muni, has now cleverly entangled even Vashishta muni into the Dasharatha's promise. He has linked the honour of Ikshawaku Dynasty with the promise of Dasharatha. He is also conveying that the good name earned by Dasharatha so far will also be spoiled if he does not keep up his word. If Dasharatha refuses to follow up his words with action, then as a teacher Vashishta maharshi would also be blamed and Ikshawaku dynasty will also be blemished. Thus, Vishwamitra, very skillfully, created a situation where Vashista maharshi would have to intervene if Dasharatha for some reason hesitates to follow up the promise given to him. This is Vishwamitra's intelligence and the victim was naive Dasharatha who gave a promise without adequate thought. Vishwamitra's goal was loka kalyanam(welfare of the world). Dasharatha had thought that at the most Vishwamitra might ask for some monetary help for conducting some sacred rite. And in his anxiety not to invite the wrath of Vishwamitra, he gave his word.

Vishwamitra knew what was going through Dasharatha's mind. He calmly explained his objective for visiting Dasharatha thus,"Oh king Dasharatha, I am in need of a small favour. I am performing a certain yagam for a certain siddhi(fruit/outcome/success). Two rakshasas(demons) are creating hurdles in the completion of yagam. These two rakshasas are kamarupi(capable of transforming themselves into any form or appearance). I have futily attempted to complete the yagam many times, but they are spoiling it again and again. You may ask why I have not punished those two rakshasa(demons), myself, with my taposhakti(power gained through meditation). Listen, after I have become a Brahmarshi, I have ceased cursing any being in the universe. I hold no grudge over anyone for any reason. I view the god in all his creation(universe). Also, when that yagam is being performed, I am ordained to keep my anger in check and not curse anyone. This has emboldened the rakshasas and they are interrupting the yagam. So, to protect the yagam from those two rakshasas and to punish them if they try to create hurdles, I need you to send your son Rama with me to forest. Your elder son Rama, who has truth as his strenght(satya parakrama), who has divine splendour, who has long curly hair and a handsome face; I need that Rama to kill those two rakshasas(demons)."

As Vishwamitra was explaining, he realised that Dasharatha, with his fatherly affection, was not going to comply. He recognised that his words had unleashed a storm in Dasharatha's mind. The compassionate Vishwamitra knew that, out of great affection for his son, Dasharatha was anticipating great dangers for his son, if he sent him against the rakshasas.

Sri Ramayana is also a psychological science. The epic teaches us, how people tend to think. Wherever there is great affection, it anticipates the worst dangers. For instance, if a child has not come back from school or tuition at the regular time and some delay has happened. Then the child's mother starts imagining the worst dangers for her dear child.

Similarly Dasharatha also anticipated the worst for his son and was anguished by what Vishwamitra had asked. Vishwamitra mercifully understood the state of mind of Dasharatha. Vishwamitra then said the following words to inspire confidence in Dasharatha," Oh mighty king, you do not realise the real power of Rama. You assume him to be a mere child of yours. But I know the real strength of Rama. Not just me, even your teacher, Vashishta, knows the reality of Rama. Ask him, if you do not believe me. All the tapasis(hermits) know that Rama is not an ordinary child. He is satya-parakrama(truth is his strength). There is no limit to his might. You have promised to gift me whatever I ask for. Now I am asking you, do not hesitate. Send Rama with me and I promise you that only the rakshasas will die."

Vishwamitra is clearly alluding that Rama is not a mere child but the incarnation of, none other than, Sri Maha Vishnu, himself. Even when the Brahmarshi Vishwamitra himself promised that only the rakshasas will be killed, Dasharatha was not convinced.
Vishwamitra, with an aim to persuade Dasharatha, spoke encouragingly," Dharma will be restored if you send your son with me. And I assure you that Rama will be gained immensely if you send him with me. If you are not convinced then consult your teacher, Vashishta. Take his advice. Also take the opinion of your ministers, if you so wish. If you are hesitant to consult them in my presence, then take them aside. Send Rama with me, only when you are completely convinced."

With every word that Vishwamitra spoke, Dasharatha looked as if life was being drawn out of him. Dasharatha, who had just nowpromised to give away anything Vishwamitra asks for, was agonised. The tension on Dasharatha's face was evident. Dasharatha's eyes reflected the despair in his heart and when he spoke his voice was very distressed," My dear Rama is still a child. He has not even attained sixteen years of age. His beautiful lotus petal-like eyes will fall asleep as soon as the night sets in. While the strength of the nocturnal rakshasas' multiplies as the night grows darker. Rama has not yet mastered all the weapons. While the deadly rakshasas not only combat with all kinds of fatal weapons, but they also employ various dark magics, witchcrafts, and illusions. The rakshasas are masters of the deceptive combat in the dark of the night. They are adept at changing their appearances through magical disguises to befuddle their opponents. How can a young child face such wily rivals in battle? My child cannot stand against those vile creatures in the battle even for a moment. His life will be in mortal danger. I am sixty-thousand years of age. I have begotten the children after a prolonged wait. I had lost all the hope of ever having a successor, then my Rama, my handsome Rama, was born. I am highly fond of my dear child, I cannot remain alive without him...not even for a second."

In different yugas, the life expectancy is supposed to be different. In Tretha yuga, the life expectancy was in thousands. In Kali yuga(the present yuga), the life expectancy is one hundred years. Thus, Dasharatha's age was sixty-thousand years for he lived in Tretha yuga.

Then, Dasharatha spoke in a melancholic voice," Oh esteemed muni, if protecting the yagam is your wish, I will come myself to perform that task along with all my mighty army. I will eliminate those rakshasas that are interrupting your yagam. Tell me, oh great sir, whose agents are these rakshasas? Who is their lord?"

Vishwamitra heard Dasharatha patiently, then Vishwamitra quietly answered," Born in Paulatsya dynasty, a ten-headed rakshasa(monster) with the name of Ravana, who is also the lord of all the rakshasas(demons), has obtained the boons from the Lord Brahma that he shall not die in the hands of Gandharvas, Kinneras, kimpurushas, Suras, Yakshas, Nagas...etc. Emboldened by his virtual immortality, he is now causing pain to all the worlds. All the virtuous people are under being troubled by him. He is the brother of Vaishravana(Kubera) himself, and son of the great Vishravasu muni. Even though Ravana, who has an extrordinary splendour and superior might, is not directly involved; two rakshasas under his tutelage are creating hurdles in the completion of my yagam. I need Rama to slay those two rakshasas."

As soon as Dasharatha heard that the two rakshasas were servants of the great rakshasa(demon) lord, Ravana, Dasharatha almost fainted. It took a few moments for Dasharatha to recover and speak again. Dasharatha was visibly shaken. The enervated Dasharatha said,"Oh esteemed muni, please pardon me. Till now, I had said that I will come to protect the yagam, along with my army. But, even I, cannot help you in this matter. Even I, along with my massive and mighty army, cannot face the rakshasas who are working for Ravana. How can the young and innocent Rama help you in this matter? I am sorry but I cannot send my child with you, pardon me..."

Having heard the rejection of Dasharatha, the benign smile on Vishwamitra's face did not fade. He calmly said," Oh Dasharatha, you had promised me to give whatever I ask for even before I asked you anything. Now, after I have asked you, you are refusing to grant my request. Having been born in the renowned and honourable Ikshawaku Dynasty, you are now breaching the vow you had given me. Having lied thus, oh King Dasharatha, may you live happily with your family, friends and relatives." It was not a curse but a blessing...a reproachful, almost sarcastic, blessing.

Then Vishwamitra rose from his majestic seat and set out from that court. As he passed by, he glanced at Vashishta maharshi. A glance that contained a subtle censure of Vashishta maharshi for the dishonourable conduct of his pupil, Dasharatha. Vishwamitra's glance implied that the blame of Dasharatha not holding on to his promise would now, also fall on Vashishta maharshi for being the teacher of Dasharatha.

So, Vashishta maharshi had to intervene. Vashishta maharshi spoke gravely to Dasharatha,"Oh Dasharatha, you are not able to understand the greatness of Vishwamitra due to your fawning affection for your son. Vishwamitra is not some ordinary person. If you mould Dharma and Tapasya into a human form, it will become Vishwamitra. This great muni has followed many rigid vows and practised rigorous rites and has gained immense powers.
Oh king, you have gained a fair fame of being a dharmatma(one who follows dharma) in all the three worlds. Now, do not stain your good name and do not be deprived of your dharma by breaching the vow you have conceded to Vishwamitra. If you breach your solemn promise to a sacred person like Vishwamitra, then all your punyam(postive karma) will be ruined. If your punyam is ruined, then your kingdom, your prosperity, the well being of your relatives and friends, everything that you possess will be endangered. Therefore, send Rama with Vishwamitra.
Rama may or may not have mastered any weapon, but if you send him with Vishwamitra, then nothing can harm Rama. Vishwamitra will protect Rama as Agni protects Amrita. Do not underestimate the stature of Vishwamitra. Vishwamitra is tapasya. He is dharma. He is strength. And he is power. He is unrivalled in intellect. A king named Brishasva had given away many many astras(weapons controlled by mantra) and shastras(physical weapons) to Vishwamitra. There is no one in the world who has mastered as many astras and shastras as Vishwamitra.
Infact, do you know why Vishwamitra has come to you? He is completely capable of protecting his own yagam from two rakshasas. His real intention is to impart to your son, Rama, the use of all the astras and shastras that he knows. Protection of yagam is simply an excuse. Send Rama with him and he will teach Rama and mould him in such a manner that there would be no other warrior in all the three worlds to match Rama. Your fortune has smiled upon you, so that Vishwamitra, himself, has come and asked you. Now, do not hesitate and immediately send Rama with him."

Having heard the words of Vashishta, the king realised the generosity of Vishwamitra and became grateful to both Vashishta and Vishwamitra. He rushed into the indoors of palace of Kaushalya and informed Kaushalya that Rama would be accompanying Vishwamitra to protect the yagam. Kaushalya, who had resolute faith in dharma, approved of the decision. Dasharatha and Kaushalya, both the parents, blessed their dear son Rama. Dasharatha lead Rama into the court room and kissed his dear child on the top of his head. Lakshamana, who never left the side of Rama, also followed Rama.

Vishwamitra took both the kids, Rama and Lakshmana, and departed. Vishwamitra walked first, he was followed by Rama and Rama was followed by Lakshmana. Gods(devas) witnessed this scene and were delighted, apsaras(divine maidens) danced joyfully, celestial flowers were showered from heaven and antahpuram(palace of queens) resounded with sounds of trumpets, drums and conchs.

Both the princes had, two quivers each, tied on their shoulders. Vishwamitra was leading and both the princes followed. Valmiki maharshi says that the scene looked as if the two princes were three-headed serpents following Vishwamitra. It looked as if Brahma with his four heads was being followed by two handsome and young ashwini devas(ashwini devas are famous for their beauty). It looked as if Shiva was walking on the snowy white mountains of himalayas and he was being followed by his son KumaraSwamy in two forms. Kumaraswamy is also considered to be very handsome.

The trio kept walking. The two kids followed the great muni without any questions or complaints in the most obedient manner. Vishwamitra turned and looked at them and both the princes smiled. Vishwamitra was delighted with their wonderful conduct. He thought," What wonderful devotion towards the guru? These two young innocent princes, who have never stepped out of their royal palaces, who have never seen the dense forests, who have lived all their life in great luxuries, who always travel in chariots, elephants or horses, these princes are today walking on foot just to follow me. They have not even complained." Thinking this way, Vishwamitra's heart was filled with kindness and happiness. He decided to gift his two disciples.

Vishwamitra turned and saw the two princes. The two kids were obediently following the elder hermit. Vishwamitra charmed by their conduct, smiled gently at the two princes. He called Rama and said," Rama, go and bring your kamandalam(kettle like vessel to carry water) and sit down. I wish to teach you two mantras named Bala and Atibala. These two mantras will ensure that you will never be tired regardless of the amount of physical hard work you do. Even if you do not sleep for many days and nights, you will not be exhausted. These mantras will ensure that you will be from all kinds of sickness. Even a fever cannot touch you. These mantras will ensure that your beauty will not be harmed by the changes in the body or weather. Your enemies cannot hurt you, even when you are asleep or distracted. You will be unrivalled in the might of arms. These mantras will ensure that you will be unrivalled in intellect. Such extra-ordinary mantras, I wish to teach you. Get ready..."

Rama received those mantras, along with Lakshmana. Then they continued their journey. Slowly the sun descended and dusk approached. Vishwamitra accompanied by Rama and Lakshmana purified themselves by bathing in the river and performed the sandhya vandana duly. Then Vishwamitra prepared a bed with grass blades for the trio and told the two princes to lie down and sleep. Once they lay on the bed of grass blades, Vishwamitra told them great many wonderful stories just like a grandfather would tell his grandchildren. The two princes who usually sleep on the grand and comfortable beds, listened to the wonderful stories told affectionately by Vishwamitra. Slowly, the two princes slipped into sleep. Once they slept, Vishwamitra maharshi also went to sleep. This shows the love of guru for his disciples.

The night passed away, and the dawn set in. It was Brahmi time(about 4:00 A.M.), Vishwamitra woke up. He immediately went and bathed in the river, and performed his sandhya vandana duly. All his rituals were completed, the two princes were still asleep. The small red sun was breaking in, the sky was reddish. Vishwamitra observed the two princes who were fast asleep. Vishwamitra was the first one to see the beauty of sleeping Rama outside the royal palace. Till now, this beauty was enjoyed only by Kaushaly, Sumitra, and Kaikeyi. But now, an outsider, Vishwamitra was seeing this mesmerising beauty.

Then, Vishwamitra woke up the two princes thus,
"Kaushalya supraja rama,
purva sandhya pravartate|
Utishta nara shardula,
kartavyam daiva manvikam||"

This is a celebrated verse of Ramayana and it is used in all the Vaishanavaite temples(including Tirupati) as a morning prayer.
Elders have said that this verse can be interpretted in many different ways. Each interpretation is as beautiful as the other. Firstly, why did Vishwamitra refer to Rama as Kaushalya supraja(oh good child of Kaushalya) and not as Dasharatha supraja?

Kaushalya is the first wife of Dasharatha. But, Dasharatha being a king married many times again. He married Sumitra. And finally, he married Kaikeyi. Dasharatha started favoring Kaikeyi over other wives and spent most of his free time with her neglecting Kaushalya and other wives. Even then, Kaushalya did not waver from her pativrata-ness(a vow to respect and follow the husband). Kaushalya prayed to the god with great devotion, but still she could not become a mother. Yet, her faith in the god did not waver, nor did she complaint. Such a committed lady. Thus, Vishwamitra referred to Rama as the good son of Kaushalya...

Another interpretation: When Vishwamitra asked Dasharatha to send Rama with him, Dasharatha did not oblige immediately. He kept hesistating until his teacher Vashishta explained to him. But Kaushalya, never had any doubts over sending Rama with Vishwamitra. She being a mother should have been more alarmed at the request, but instead she sent the Rama with her blessings immediately because she had great faith in the maharshi. Thus, Vishwamitra referred to Rama as the good son of Kaushalya...

Another interpretation: Rama was born after Ashwamedha Yagam was performed. In the ritual of Ashwamedha Yagam, the queen, Kaushalya, was required to sacrifice the yaga horse with three knives. Then, she had to spend the night beside the dead horse. All the while, her heart had to be pleasant without any malice. After the Yagam was completed, Dasharatha's papam(negative karma) was cleared and Rama was born. Kaushalya went through all these tough rituals to obtain Rama as son. Thus, Vishwamitra referred to Rama as the good son of Kaushalya...

Another interpretation: Sri Maha Vishnu decided to be born as a human being. Birthless Vishnu, now needed a mother to take birth. He decided on Kaushalya. The great Vishnu spent twelve long months in the womb of Kaushalya to be born as a human being. Kaushalya carried the Vishnu himself in her womb. She went through pregnancy pains to give birth to the beautiful Rama. Thus, Vishwamitra referred to Rama as the good son of Kaushalya...

Another interpretation: There is another Rama in the world, ParashuRama. So, Vishwamitra specifically is referring to Rama who is son of Kaushalya. Parashurama had killed many sinful kshatriyas previously. Taking Dasharatha's name may inspire anger in Parashurama as Dasharatha is also a kshatriya. So, Vishwamitra referred to Rama as the good son of Kaushalya...

There are so many beautiful interpretations to this verse. That is the reason this celebrated verse is used as a morning prayer in all the temples. Usually, a ritual of waking up the lord, is performed in the temples. It is an imagination, but Vishwamitra had the good fortune of actually waking up the lord.

Vishwamitra saw the two beautiful kids in their sleep. He marveled at their beauty, then he addressed them gently," Oh good son of Kaushalya, Rama! Sun is rising in the east. Hence, wake up, oh lion among men! Your father has performed your upanayana, and you are a kshatriya. You are duty bound to perform Sandhya Vandana at the right time. Perform your duty believing it to be ordained by Gods. You will be the role-model for all the men of all the worlds from hence forth, so wake up and perform your duty."
Without explaining the reason, no one should be woken up. Thus, Vishwamitra explains the reason for which Rama needed to wake up. Then, both the princes woke up. The two young kids bathed in the cold effusive waters of the river and performed the Sandhya Vandana duly in the early dawn.

Then, they continued their journey. Vishwamitra in the lead and both the princes following obediently. After walking for a while, they came across an Ashram. The Ashram was filled with some thousands of tapasavis who were busy in their rituals and prayers. Seeing them, Rama asked Vishwamitra thus," Oh bhagwan(god), whose ashram is this? What are these tapasvis doing here? I am curious to know, please explain all the details to me." Seeing the shraddha of young Rama, his innocence and curiousity, Vishwamitra was pleased.
Vishwamitra then explained," Once upon a time, Shiva was in deep meditation. While he was in the meditation, Manmadha(indian cupid) aimed his flowery arrows of desire, passion and lust on Shiva himself. Angered by Manmadha's impertinence, Shiva opened his third eye. As soon as the third-eye of Shiva opened, all the body parts of Manmadha were consumed by a fire and he was reduced to ashes. Manmadha became bodyless and thus came to be known as Ananga(one without body). The place(country) where this incident happened became famous as Anga(body part).
This ashram was used by Shiva during his meditation. Many rishis and munis had worshipped Lord Shiva at that time in this ashram. Later, the disciples of those rishis and munis, then the disciples of those disciples, then their disciples and so on; spent their lives in great meditative penances in this ashram.
Look at all these tapasvis, these are the disciples in the heriditary line of those great rishis and munis who had served the Lord Shiva. Since, the Lord Shiva had himself meditated in this ashram, this place is sacred and holy. All these tapasvis living in this holy ashram are untouched by any kind of sin(papam)."

Rama was pleased to learn the anecdote of Shiva and his meditation. Then, the trio resumed their journey ahead. The tapasvis of the ashram also escorted the trio to give them a proper farewell. After a while, they came across the holy river Ganga and they had to cross the Ganga to reach the Ashram of Vishwamitra where the yagam had to be performed. A boat was arranged and Vishwamitra along with his two young disciples boarded it. The tapasvis bid them adieu and went back to their ashram.

After the boat traversed some distance in the river Ganga, they heard a sudden and increasingly loud banging noise. Young Rama hearing the the noise asked his guru curiously about it.

Vishwamitra, whose knowledge was comprehensive, explained," Once upon a time in the past, Lord Brahma created a lake merely by a thought. Since the lake was created mentally(by a thought in mind) by Lord Brahma, it came to be known as Manasa Sarovar(Manasa means mentally and Sarovar means lake). It is a very very holy and sacred lake. That place and its waters, have the power to cleanse a person of his accumulated sins(committed in the past) . Once upon a time, even Indra, had to take refuge in that place for a long time, such is the greatness of that place.
A river is born from that holy lake. That river flows gracefully along all the sides of the city of Ayodhya. Since the river orginates from the Sarovar(Lake), it has been called Sarayu. Thus, Sarayu is also a very holy river. That river after navigating along the circumference of the Ayodhya, traverses towards Ganga and meets it here. The coming together of the gushing waters of the two holy rivers has created this loud noise.
Ganga and Sarayu rivers meet here(Sangam). Since two very holy rivers meet here, it is a very powerful, energetic and sacred place. So, we should not go past this place casually. We should pay our homage duly. Thus, offer your namaskar(obeisance) to this place."

Then, as instructed by their teacher, both Rama and Lakshmana offered their namaskar to that holy sangam(meeting of two rivers).

Sri Ramayanam is a great Dharma Shastra(treatise of Dharma). Many Dharma Sukshmams are clarified in Ramayana authoritatively. Dharma Sukshmam is a condition when two dharmas are conflicting each other. Then, in that situation, which dharma will take ascendancy, which dharma is to be followed? Ramayana solves this uncertainity expertly. Once we have digest these dharma sukshmams thoroughly, then our point of view towards life changes. Our perception towards all the things alters. Ramayana explains the minutest details without neglect, so as to teach us the proper conduct. So, when Vishwamitra came across a holy sangam, he directed Rama and Lakshmana to offer a namaskar to it. And both the princes obediently offered their namaskar to the holy sangam of Sarayu river and Ganga river.

The boat moved onward, and finally they crossed the Ganga river. The trio got off the boat and recommenced their journey on foot. They entered a thick forest. It had no trace of a human inhabitance. The sunlight could not pierce through the thick roof formed by closely knit tree branches. As a result, darkness permeated the forest imparting the place a grotesque look.

Rama is an astute and keen observer and also inquisitive in seeking knowledge. So, we notice that Rama frequently enquires his teacher Vishwamitra about any unusual situation. But, his polite and intelligent way of asking a question coupled with his discerning observation, endears him to his teacher. Rama's frequent questioning on various subjects, does not annoy Vishwamitra but only drives him to explain the subject more elaborately. This is the skill of speech of Rama.

Now, Rama after entering the dense forest, asked Vishwamitra," Oh bhagawan, why is this forest like this? Some insects are making loud noises. The chirping sounds of Bhasa birds can be heard. Oh, impenetratable is this forest fraught with swarms of crickets, brutish predators, and vultures. Various vultures are screeching with fierce sonority, and tigers, wild boars, and elephants render this forest atypical. One can see only the marks of inhabitation of carnivores. The forest is full of huge trees like Dhava, Ashvakarna, Arjuna, Bilva, Tinduka, Patala, and Badari. No human trace is visible and it looks like no human has tread here for a long long time. Why is this forest in this condition? What is the reason, oh brahman?"

Sri Ramayana is also a shakuna(shagun) shastra(treatise of omens). The epic mentions various trees and birds. The presence of certain birds indicates that, that place is habitation for creatures that eat humans. Similarly, many other shakunas(shaguns) are revealed in Sri Ramayana. All the conditions that Rama has mentioned above; like the presence of various birds or the presence of certain huge trees or the constant noise of certain insects; indicates that the place is not visited by humans. Rama has, as a result, sensed a great peril.

Vishwamitra was impressed by the insight and foresight of Rama. Then, he answered Rama," Son, I'll explain why this place has become like this, listen carefully. Once upon a time, Indra, the lord of Suras(gods), had to kill an evildoer named Vrutrasura. But since, that wicked Vrutrasura was also a brahmin, Indra was contracted by Brahma-Hatya-Patakam(Sin of killing a Brahmin). As a result, he was infected by Maladam(extreme formation of dirt in the body) and Karusham(extreme obsessive hunger). He could not be cured of these infections, despite trying many remedies. Then, he came to this place. Here, many maharshis used to reside. Those maharshis used their powers to enchant the mixture of holy waters of many rivers, so that those waters could cure Indra of his infection. When Indra bathed with those holy concocted waters, his infection was cured and he was rid of his papam(sin). Those waters containing the infection of Indra, seeped into the earth at this place. Since this place received the waters containing the infection of Indra, the two cities that dwelt at this place came to be known as Maladam and Karusham. Indra, contented to get his health back, blessed these two cities thus," Since the earth at this place has received the infected waters and helped me in getting rid of my troubles, I bless you so this place. May these two cities be blessed with good fortune. May these two cities grow rich prolifically. May the dwellers of these two cities enjoy copious luxuries."

With the blessing of Indra, these cities grew grandly with people and possessions. The people of these two cities were glad and content with their lives. But then a rakshasi(demoness) named Tataka arrived here. She prevailed over this place and soon, she started eating the humans here. Frightened by the evil activity of Tataka, people fled this place. From then on, this place became devoid of human presence, gradually the grand cities were ruined and a dense forest has grown here."

Rama would not let the matter rest so easily, he questioned further. Then Vishwamitra patiently explained," A yakshini(a type of race) named Tataka, may you be safe Rama, with a might of thousand elephants roams in this area. She was turned into a rakshasi(demoness) due to a curse. She is married to one named Sundhu and has a son named Maricha. The three of them have together ruined this place like this."

Note Vishwamitra's affection for Rama, as soon as he takes the name of cruel Tataka, he immediately wishes for the safety of his disciple, Rama. Sri Ramayana urges the teachers to treat their disciples with the same affection that a father has for his son.

The curious young Rama was not content with the explanation of his teacher. He politely enquired further,"Oh esteemed muni, why was that Tataka cursed? Also, usually the yaksha race are not a very martial race. Generally, they are deficient in physical might. Then, how come this yakshini, a lady, has acquired the strength of thousand elephants? Also, even if she possesses such strength, why did she destroy this place? What is the reason for her hatred for this particular place? Please explain, oh brahman(god)..."

Vishwamitra watched the young Rama, the beautiful and refined manner of his questioning, his sharp intellect and keen interest in learning, and above all his shraddha pleased Vishwamitra. Rama's mode of questioning was so elegant and well-constructed that it generated an interest in the other person to answer it.

So, Vishwamitra gladdened with his disciple's question, explained further,"In the past, there existed a Yaksha named Sukethu. He had a very righteous conduct. Once, he performed a tapasya (meditative penance) to please Lord Brahma. Lord Brahma pleased with the tapasya of Sukethu, appeared. Lord Brahma asked what Sukethu wished for. Sukethu courteously replied to Brahma that he wished for a mighty son. For some reason, Brahma said that son was not possible but instead of that he blessed Sukethu with a daughter possessing the might of thousand elephants. As a result of Brahma's boon, a daughter was born to Sukethu. She possessed a strength of thousand elephants from her birth itself. After due course of time, she was married to a yaksha named Sundhu. A child named Maricha was born out of this wedlock. That Maricha, later, became a rakshasa due to a curse."

Rama again questioned," Oh bhagawan, why was that yaksha cursed?"

Then, Vishwamitra, the teacher of Rama, patiently cleared the doubts of his pupil," Once upon a time Agatsya maharshi was travelling through this place. At that time, emboldened by the short height of Agatsya, the yaksha named Sundhu tried to derisively assualt Agatsaya muni. Agastya muni punished the profanity of Sundhu by killing that yaksha on the spot with the marvellous power of his speech. Agastya mahamuni simply uttered," Die..." and instantly Sundhu, the yaksha, dropped dead on the ground.

Sundhu's wife Tataka, a yakshini, and Sundhu's son Maricha; both vengefully attacked Agatsya mahamuni. Even after witnessing the enormous power of Agatsya muni who destroyed Sundhu with merely his words, they did not learn the lesson.
Rama, when the mother and son duo attacked Agatsya muni, he cursed them both and turned them into grotesque looking rakshasas(demons). From that time onwards, Tataka became a horrible rakshasi roaming this place. She has developed a taste for human flesh and has become a man-eater. She catches her prey through their odour.
That rakshasi must have smelt our presence and will soon attack us. Rama, do not excuse her on the basis of her gender. To save the world, one must wipe out the unrighteous even if she is a woman. Listen to me...it may seem a kind deed or a cruel deed, that deed may confer punyam or papam, even if that deed is improper, you must still do it because it is your duty as a kshatriya(warrior ruling class). You are, as a kshatriya, designated with the duty of protecting the good and innocent by punishing the wicked. This is the Sanatana Dharma(eternal righteous path). Therefore, immediately kill that Tataka."

After instructing Rama to kill Tataka, Vishwamitra carefully studied Rama's face to see what would be Rama's reaction.

Usually, harming a lady is considered ungentlemanly, but now Rama's teacher was ordering him to kill a woman. Rama has never killed anyone before. Now, he has to kill for the first time, that too a woman, based on Vishwamitra's instructions. Rama's reputation may permanently be stained for killing a woman. Also, Rama is not acquainted with Vishwamitra for a long time, he had met his teacher only one day before. Rama was faced with a complicated choice of either following the general wisdom of not harming a woman or simply following the teacher's orders. To an adolscent Rama, this could have been a very tricky situation.

But Rama had great clarity in this matter. He not only knew what to do, he also knew, clearly, why he was doing it. Its a quality that can be learnt by all of us. So many times, we see that many adolscents going to colleges do not have much clarity on what they should do or why they should do it. They simply follow someone else who incidentally is following someone else. Sri Ramayana teaches us to be clear-cut with our aims, objectives, and duties. Ramayana also teaches us to have clarity about the reasons and motives for those aims and duties.

Instructed by Vishwamitra to slay Tataka, Rama revealed his opinion," In Ayodhya, my father led me into the courtroom from the inner chambers of the palace. There, my father kissed the crown of my head. Then, my father pointed towards you and said," Rama, he is a very eminent rishi, you should never defy any command of his."
I am a human being, thus my first duty is to follow the orders of my father. Therefore, as prescribed by my father, I will comply with your command. I will slay that Tataka to protect the cows and brahmins who were assualted by her. I will slay that Tataka so that the people of the country can live in peace and prosperity. Oh son of Kushika, you are my teacher, you have taught me great many astras and shastras. You are a brahmarshi and your knowledge about dharma and adharma is comprehensive. Since you have explained to me that slaying that rakshasi is dharma, it does not matter how it may seem to my mind, I will undoubtedly do as you instructed."

Meanwhile, Tataka perceived the human presence through ordour. She immediately rushed to the spot where the smell orginated and found three humans. Earth trembled with the movements of her huge body. She vigorously attacked the three humans. She conjured a shower of stones. She created great many illusions. She became ivisible for sometime. Then, she represented herself and transformed into many different horrible forms. In this manner, she tried various tricks to unnerve the two princes. But both the princes were unmoved. They withstood the illusions created by the rakshasi. They kept her at bay with their sharp and speedy arrows. The rakshasi kept fighting in various ways to defeat Rama and Lakshamana.

After witnessing the duel for a while, Vishwamitra addressed Rama," Oh son, sun is setting down and night is approaching. The darkness is growing thicker. In such a time, you should not tolerate this rakshasi any more. Her strength will increase in the night. Do not delay any further, and slay her immediately."

Tataka, in the meantime, was fed up of exhausting all her arsenal on the two young princes without any success. She decided to use her brute physical force. The strength of thousand elephants, she believed, was enough to kill these two annoyingly persistent human princes. Having decided, she ran towards the two princes screaming horribly. The entire forest was resounding with her screams.
Rama listened to the instruction of his mentor Vishwamitra and also saw the giant rakshasi running towards him. The rakshasi was making shrill heart-wrenching noises and her face was distorted with anger. Rama, still not willing to take the life of a woman, decided to handicap the rakshasi hoping that once handicapped, the rakshasi may reform. He shot two sharp arrows from his bow, which dismantled both the arms of the gaint rakshasi from her huge trunk. Rakshasi made a dangerous high-pitched lamenting sound. Her large arms fell on the ground making a loud noise and uprooted many huge trees in the process. The dark forest was resonating with these loud noises.

Losing her two limbs, only enraged the rakshasi further. She did not slow down, instead the rakshasi kept running towards them more furiously. Observing that the rakshasi was still coming towards them violently, Lakshmana chopped off her nose and ears with his arrows. The demoness became more frenzied. Her high-pitched horrible wailing got louder. But instead of stopping her, the arrows of Rama and Lakshamana made the rakshasi more violent. She kept covering the distance between the two princes and herself furiously. Rama, seeing that there was no other resort, took out a destructive shaft from his quiver and released it from his bow. The shaft travelled rapidly towards its aim. The arrow lit up the dark forest with lightening like dazzle and implanted itself in the chest of the rakshasi. As soon as, the shaft pierced the chest of the rakshasi, Tataka's vast body fell down on the forest ground taking down huge trees along with it. Tataka's body made violent convulsive movements and Tataka shrieked in pain. Within seconds, Tataka was dead.

The joyous news of the death of evil Tataka brought smiles even to the faces of devas(gods). Indra, the lord of Suras(gods), rose from his throne and joined all the other celestial beings in their joyous applause of the marvellous feat achieved by Vishwamitra. Vishwamitra, the great muni, has succeeded in guiding Rama and Lakshamana towards the elimination of rakshasas to protect the world. All the divine beings praised the generous Vishwamitra. All the devas(gods) rejoiced and hailed the incident as," Great feat!! Magnificent feat!! Wonderous feat!!!" The devas cheerfully sang the praises of Sri Ramachandra. There was much jubiliation all around.

Vishwamitra too, was delighted by his disciple, Rama's obedience, valour and dharma. Since, a guru should not praise his disciple, Vishwamitra did not convert the happiness in his heart into words.

Vishwamitra is a Brahmarshi. He has realised the Para Brahman(Ultimate God). He is the epitome of all scriptural knowledge. He understands the purpose of all scriptures. So, his instruction to his disciple Rama contains the essence of all the scriptures. Vishwamitra has instructed that a person must always do his scripturally ordained duty and leave the fruit of these actions to God. This is precisely what the Lord Krishna had preached to Arjuna in Bhagavad Gita. In Mahabharata, Arjuna had to battle against his kinsmen. But Arjuna, on witnessing, his own kinsmen arrayed against him in battle, lost courage. He was confused about his duty. Killing kinsmen is considered Adharma, but chickening out from a battle is also not Dharmic. Arjuna was caught in this predicament. Then, Lord Krishna clearly explained to him that a Kshatriya(Warrior) must do his duty of protecting the Dharma. If in that process, he is pitted against his own kinsmen, even then he must not waver from his duty. The preaching of Lord Krishna in Bhagavad Gita tallies with the teaching of Vishwamitra in Ramayana. The preaching of Lord Krishna in Mahabharata conforms with the practises of Lord Rama in Srimad Ramayana.

Vishwamitra told his disciple that a warrior's primary duty is to protect the virtuous and week from the Adharmics. It is a warrior's duty to punish the wicked. Thus, it is Rama's duty to punish Tataka. Tataka deserves the death punishment for her deeds. Vishwamitra has also stated unambigously that even if killing Tataka entails Papam to Rama, he must still do the deed. Why? Because as a warrior, it is Rama's duty. If in performing his duty, Rama acquires Papam(sin), so be it. This is a sacrifice that is expected from every warrior or ruler. No warrior should shy away from his duty on the pretext of acquiring Papam. This lession is remembered by Rama throughout his life. A very similar Dharmic predicament arises, later, in Rama's life. Ravana who stole Rama's wife happens to be a Brahmana by birth. Killing Brahmana's is strictly prohibited by the scriptures. So what should Rama do? Should he slay Ravana and rescue his Dharmic wife or leave her to her fate because her abductor happens to be a Brahmana? Rama chose to rescue the Dharma and punish Ravana. If Papam(sin) is gained by that action, then one can perform the action of repentance. Lord Rama installed a Shiva Lingam in Rameshwaram to bail out of Brahma-Hatya-Patakam(Sin of killing a Brahmana). The same lesson could be seen from the actions of Lord Indra. Lord Indra slew Vrutasura, even though, he was a Brahmana. Later, he carried out other actions to get out of that sin. But he did not waver from his duty.

Thus, the lesson taught by Vishwamitra to Rama was not just for this occasion but a guiding principle through out Rama's life. That lesson is eternal and Dharmic. This lession guided the life of Rama. Rama, on his part, gave some reasons for deciding to kill Tataka:

1)The primary duty of a human being is to follow the dictates of his father. Rama's father ordered him to follow Vishwamitra's instructions. So, Rama followed his father's orders.
2)A disciple must follow the instructions of his Guru. Rama, therefore, followed his Guru's orders.
3)An extremely wicked person has to be punished regardless of Gender, Class or Race. The general guidelines fail after a certain threshold is passed. This is also supported by the Shaastras.
4)As a warrior, it is Rama's duty to protect the virtuous and punish the wicked. Rama performed his duty.

The death of Tataka led to great jubiliations in heavens. The occassion was particularly momentous because Lord Rama had begun the elimination of Rakshas, which is the actual purpose of Rama Avatar.

The night was still young. Vishwamitra decided to take rest that night in that forest itself for Tataka was no more. Vishwamitra again narrated great many wonderous stories and morals to the two young princes as affectionately as a grandfather narrates to his grandchildren. Many other tapasvis had also arrived at that place on learning the joyous news of Tataka's death. They also spent their night along with Vishwamitra and Rama. All of them happily spent their night in a peaceful sleep.

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जय श्री राम ! ( Jai Sri Ram )

गंगा भवानि गायत्री काली लक्ष्मी सरस्वती ।

राजराजेश्वरी बाला श्यामला ललिता दशा ॥
( Ganga Bhavani Gayatri Kali Lakshmi Saraswati |
Rajarajeshwari Bala Shyamala Lalita Dasha || )

कर चरण कृतंवा कर्मा वाक् कायजंवा,
श्रवणा नयनाजं वा मानसंवा आपराधं,
विहितम अविहितं वा सर्वं एतत् शमत्स्व,
शिव शिव करुणाब्धे श्री महादेव शंबो ।

( Kara charana kritamva karma vak kayamjam va,
shravana nayanajam va manasamva aparadham,
vihitama avihitam va sarvam etat shamatsva,
shiva shiva karunabdhe sri mahadeva shambo | )

Sri Ramayana Part 4: Marvelous names and majestic characters of the young princes of Ayodhya

2012-09-21T15:13:00.004-07:00

जय श्री राम ! ( Jai Sri Ram )

शुक्ल अम्बरा धरां विष्णुं,      ( Shuklambharadaram vishnum,
शशि वर्णं चतुर भुजं ।            Shashivarnam chaturbhujam |
प्रसन्ना वदनं ध्यायेत्,           prasannavadanam dhyayet,
सर्व विघ्न उपाशन्तयेत् ॥      sarva vigna upshantayet || )

नमस्ते अस्तु भगवन् विश्वेश्वराय महादेवाय त्रियम्बकाय त्रिपुरान्तकाय त्रिकग्निकालाय ,
कालाग्निरुद्राय निलकन्ताय मृत्युञ्जयाय सर्वेश्वराय सदाशिवाय श्रीमन् महादेवाय नमः ।
( Namaste astu bhagawan Vishveshvaraya, Mahadevaya Triyamabakaya Tripurantakaya Trikaganikalaya,
Kalagnirudraya Nilakantaya Mrityunjayaya Sarveshvaraya Sadashivaya Sriman Mahadevaya namah | )

वनमाली गदी शन्गी शङ्की चक्री च नन्दकी ,
श्रीमन् नारायणो विष्णु वसुदेवोभि रक्षतु ।

( Vanamali gadhisangi shanki chakri cha nandaki,
Sriman Narayano Vishnu Vasudevobhi rakshatu | )

सर्व चैतन्य रूपां ताम् आध्यं विद्यां च धीमहि
बुदिं यो नः प्रचोदयात्
( Sarva chaitanya rupaam tamadhyam vidyam cha dhimahi
budhim yo nah prachodayat )

सदाशिव समारम्भां व्यास शंकर मध्यमाम् ।

भारती थीर्थ पर्यन्तां वन्दे गुरु परम्परां ॥

( Sadhashiva samarambham vyasa shankara madyamam

bharathi theertha paryantam vande guru paramparam )

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Sri Ramayana(Bala Kaanda) Part 4:

Marvelous names and majestic characters of the young princes of Ayodhya

In the last episode, I narrated the story upto the birth of Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Shatrughna. Emperor Dasharatha begot four handsome babies after successfully completing the Ashvamedha Yagam and Putreshti. The populace of Ayodhya celebrated on that momentous day. Grand festivities continued throughout the Khosala kingdom. All the sections of the society were overjoyed. Eleven days passed in merry celebrations.

Eleven days after the birth of the four children, Vashishta Maharshi, who was the kulaguru(family teacher) of Raghu dynasty, was requested by Emperor Dasharatha to suitably name his four children. Vashishta Maharshi cheerfully accepted the request of the Emperor. The first child(born to mother Kaushalya) was named as Rama. The second one(born to mother Kaikeyi) was named Bharatha. And, lastly, the two children(born to mother Sumitra) were named Lakshmana and Shatrughna respectively.

Usually, the names of the people and their personalities dont necessarily have to match. A girl named Vidya(which means education/learning) may turn out to be a complete illiterate. Similarly, a boy named Sridhar(which means one who bears Sri or wealth) may grow up to be poor. Thus, there is no assurance that the personality of a child will match the name conferred on him in his childhood. The names given by Brahmarshi Vashishta to these four children were not such mundane.

Vahishta Maharshi chose the names cautiously with much foresight. Vashishta maharshi, himself, is no ordinary person. He is a Brahmarshi(one who has attained the highest spiritual conscious). He is the very embodiment of all the wisdom in the universe. He has understood by experience the meaning of the sublime Vedic truths like तत् त्वम् असि (tat tvam asi), अहं ब्रह्म अस्मि (aham brahma asmi), सत्यम् ज्ञानम् अनन्तम ब्रह्म (satyam gyanam anantam brahma), ब्रह्म सत्यम् जगत् मित्या जीवो ब्रह्म एव न अपरः (brahma satyam jagat mitya jivo brahmeva na aparah) . He has merged his ego with the supreme being. He has realised that essentially he(Vashishta) is indistinguishable from the Para Brahman(God). He has understood that other beings are also essentially same as Para Brahman(God). The other beings, out of their misunderstanding, nurture thoughts of separateness from the supreme. He knows that God is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent. God is not only omnipotent, but potency itself. The primary source of strength of every thing(living or non-living) is God. Nothing and no one has any strength independent of God. तेन विना तृणं अपि न चलति (even a blade of grass is incapable of moving without Him). శివుడి అగ్య లేనిదే చీమా అయనా కుట్టదు (Without Lord's permission, even an ant cannot bite anyone). God is not merely omniscient, but knowledge (gyanam) itself. All the knowledge of the worlds is but an instance of God. Knowledge by which a tree grows(by making food directly from sun's energy); knowledge by which a flower blooms spreading its fragrance far and wide(attracting bees which carry pollen); knowledge by which a bee collects the honey from the flowers; knowledge by which we(humans) think; all these are but instances of the knowledge of God. A bee may not be able to do what a tree or a human does; while a human may not be able to do what a tree(making food from sun's energy) or a bee(collecting honey) can. They have diverse knowledges, but the knowledge itself, in all things, is God himself/itself. God is not just omnipresent, but eternal. God exists. God exists everywhere and for all time. There is no place or time, devoid of God. God exists in the seemingly lowliest to the apparently highest in the equipoise. God is simultaneously tinier than atom and bigger than the universe. अनोरनियान महतो महीयान (anoraniyan mahato mahiyan). God pervades everything and everyone. So, He is called विष्णु (Vishnu) i.e. 'the all pervasive'. God existed in this manner in the past. God exists in this manner in the present. And God will exist in this manner in future. If one were to ask a question, "is there anything that cannot be accomplished by God?" The answer is, "Yes, there is one thing. God cannot cease to exist from any place(howsoever tiny) for even a fraction of time." If God is not present at some place, then the place itself will not exist. If God is not present at any moment in time, then that time itself will not exist. If God is not present in an object, then that object itself will not exist. But God exists independent of time, place and objects. But all things are dependent on God. Simultaneously, God exists at all places, at all times and in all objects. Thus, God permeates and empowers all things/objects(living and non-living) from the minutest to the magnificent for all times in all places. God is the common essence in all the places, times and objects. This diverse world(with infinite places, times and objects) has one commonality: God. God is the unity in the diversity. In fact, the diversity is an illusion that cloaks the unity. People look at the diversity but cannot notice the unity. They think the world (along with the various objects within the world) are different from God. This mistaken view that the world(including oneself) is independent(or different) from God is माया (maya). Maharshi Vashishta has transcended this माया (maya). He has realised his and others' self is indistinct from विष्णु (Vishnu). He does not consider himself as separate from विष्णु (Vishnu). He views विष्णु (Vishnu) in everything and everywhere. Due to this realisation, he is self-content and happy within himself. He does not need any other object(living or non-living) to be happy. He is just happy and content. Thus, he has transcended desire and anger. He has not suppressed his desire and anger, rather he has gone beyond desire and anger. How? Simple. If one views the all pervasive विष्णु (Vishnu) in all things, then what is there to be liked or disliked. If everything has the same quality(विष्णु), then how can one be desirable and another undesirable? Mind in association with senses gives rise to notions of pain and pleasure. Everything is permeated by one(same) विष्णु (Vishnu), so these notions of mind(that one is pleasurable, while another is painful) are simply illusions of mind. By shunning these false notions of difference and embracing the truth that everything is pervaded by one परम आत्मा (Supreme Being), Vashishta has merged his ego in that परम आत्मा (Supreme Being). Due to this Vashishta has become one with that all pervasive God(विष्णु). Vashishta has acquired the same status as विष्णु(all pervasive Supreme Being).Thus, he has discerned all the world as mere maya(illusion) and God as the truth.

Adi Shankara Bhagavatpada gives the same advice in 'Baja Govindam'. He says,

"त्वयि मयि च अन्यत्र एको विष्णुः    ( tvayi mayi cha anyatra eko vishnuh
व्यर्थं कुप्यसि मयि असहिष्णुः ।          vyartham kupyasi mayi asahishnuh ।
भव समचित्तः सर्वत्र त्वं                        bhava samacittah sarvatra tvam
वाञ्चस्य अचिरात यदि विष्णुत्वं ॥"         vaanchasyaciraad yadi vishnutvam ॥ ) Baja Govindam 24

"शत्रौ मित्रे पुत्रे बन्धौ                            satrau mitre putre bandhou
मा कुरु यत्नं विग्रह सन्धौ                     maa kuru yatnam vigraha sandhou

सर्व अस्मिन्न अपि पश्य आत्मानं    sarva asminn api pasya atmaanam
सर्वत्रो उत्सृज भेद अज्ञानं ॥ "                 sarvatro utsruja bheda ajnaanam ॥ ) Baja Govindam 25

Meaning of above two verses is:
In you, in me, there is but the one all-pervading Reality(विष्णु). Getting impatient, you are angry with me needlessly. Be equal-minded everywhere (under all circumstances) if you want to attain the status of the all-pervading Reality soon(विष्णुत्वं). Baja Govindam 24

Do not strive, towards separation or alliance with enemies, friends, children or companions. In everything, everywhere, see the Self by lifting the sense of differentiation borne of ignorance. Baja Govindam 25

Vashishta Maharshi is the illustration of the above teachings.He sees no distinction of friend or foe. He has reconciled the opposites like pain and pleasure, happiness and sorrow, luxury and misery, praise and criticism...etc. Thus, by practicing such equipoise, he has obtained merger with the all pervasive one(विष्णु). By knowing विष्णु (Vishnu), he knows everything that is filled with विष्णु (Vishnu) which is everything. In short, he has acquired विष्णुत्वं. Therefore, he can perceive the past, present and the future. He knows the inner most thoughts of every being in the world. In short, he has become omniscient just like God by being constantly associated with only God, just as an iron piece becomes magnet by constant association with magnet.

Then, a doubt may arise in our minds, "If Vashishta Maharshi was such an extraordinary person, who has transcended the maya(illusion) of the world and realises his self as Para Brahman, then why did such a great person agree to be the preceptor of Raghu Dynasty?" Being a preceptor to any royal dynasty is not an easy job. A preceptor has to always work towards the welfare of his disciples. A royal preceptor has to regularly conduct many religious rituals(yagams and homams) for the safety and prosperity of the royal family(and their subjects). A preceptor also has the responsibility of guiding his disciples by suitably advising them on various issues. So, a royal preceptor would have to provide advice on various issues which may includes the private lives of royalty, welfare of the people, governmental policies, and religious affairs. Evidently, being a preceptor of a royal dynasty involves a lot of worldly affairs. If Vashishta maharshi considered the world an illusion, then why did he undertake such added responsibilities? What was he expecting in return for playing the role of mentor of the Raghu Dynasty? Did he want gold? Was he after fame? Did lust of power lure him? Did he wish for praises? None of these!

Vashishta Maharashi could exert his taposhakti(power gained due to long periods of tapasya) and create more riches and luxuries than all the wealth in this universe. Vashishta maharshi, being a Brahmarshi, did not discriminate between praise and censure, pain and pleasure, wealth and poverty, desirable and undesirable. Since, he saw the world as a mere reflection of विष्णु (Vishnu), he had a uniformity of emotion towards all the things that the world offered. Then, the obvious question: what was Vashishta Maharshi's objective in being the kulaguru of Raghu Dynasty?

Firstly, Duty or Sva-Dharma. Generally, people use Vedanta to abjure one's duty. But unlike this, Vashishta Maharshi did not waver from his duty. People say, "If everything is illusionary, then why work? Why do good? Why live at all?"
The answer is,"If and when you have truly experienced the truthfulness of Gods and illusive nature of the world, then and only then you can do whatever you wish. But, until such time, one must perform one's own duty or sva-dharma always. There are two stages here: pre-liberation and post-liberation. Liberation means Moksha or Nirvana. Pre-liberation means before attaining Moksha. And Post-liberation means after attaining Moksha. If one has attained Moksha while he is still alive, then such a great person is called to be Jivan Mukta(that means one who is free in this life itself). People in pre-liberation state must not emulate people in post-liberation state. A simple analogy to drive home the point: people who have achieved their goal/target can rest(or work or can do whatever they want because they have achieved their goal). But, people who are yet to achieve their goal/target cannot behave like that, they have to diligently work towards achieving their goal. Similarly, people who are yet to attain Moksha should not emulate people who have already attained it."

Vashishta Maharshi is undoubtedly a Brahma-gyani and therefore can do as he wishes. Yet, to guide the world and do his duty, he continues to act in a way that can be emulated by others(specifically his disciples).

If such a great person is doing his duty, then the ordinary folks will also not waver from their duty by seeing his example.

In fact, this also the primary reason for the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, and eternal Vishnu to manifest as Rama. Vishnu established Dharma that every being must follow. He explained all the Dharmas in Vedas. But, ordinary folks find it difficult to do all that is asked of them. They look for a role model. They complaint, "Is it possible for any person to live according to all the Dharmas detailed in scriptures? Yes, great rishis like Vashishta are there. But, they are great. Can ordinary person do his sva-dharma especially if one has to suffer in the process?"

Rama avtar is an answer to that complaint. Yes, it is possible to live according to the injunctions of scriptures. To prove that an ordinary man can live without wavering from sva-dharma (duty) or satya (truth), the God(Vishnu) Himself, manifested as an ordinary human being devoid of any special powers. He performed all the Dharmas that a human being is expected to performed. He went through many sufferings while performing his Sva-Dharma. Lord Rama even cries like an ordinary mortal when overwhelmed by the circumstances(eg: at the time of Sita's abduction). But, never, did he waver an inch from Dharma for even a second. So, he behaved just as an ordinary human being but remained steadfast on the path of sva-dharma. Thus, Rama has provided a template for people to emulate

Some people say, "I don't feel good reading stories like harishchandra and ramayana because of the sufferings of mr. honest and mrs. integrity respectively. It hurts why sita mata should suffer like that. why?"

The answer is:

Sri Rama's avatar had two primary aims:
a) To slay Ravana.
b) To live an ideal human life so that human beings have a role model.

To fulfill the (b), Sri Rama had to endure all the difficulties and showcase that even during all these difficulties one should not waver from one's sva-dharma. Sita Amma's teaching is the same. Her sva-dharma is Paativratyam. Being a role model is one of the main objective of Rama and Sita. Rama is a role model for all men and Sita is the role model for all women. The essential message from Sri Rama and Sita Amma is: Bear your Karma with grace, dignity and courage without wavering from Sva-Dharma. Strictly speaking, Rama could have killed Ravana just like that. He did not have to endure all the suffering at all. He did not need to go to forests or bear separation from his beloved wife. Even, Sita could have easily punished Ravana, she did not have to suffer the imprisonment in Lanka. But if they had ended it like that, then it would not have given us an example to follow. By going through the sufferings in a Dharmic manner, Rama and Sita have provided an example for all times. Vishnu has taken several avataras. It is said that the number of avataras of Vishnu are more than the number of dust particles on earth. Yet, of all these avataras, Rama avatar is unique precisely for the reason that in this avatar the God Himself has lived like an ordinary mortal to provide an example for all mortals. Just as a kind father shows his young son how to do a thing, by doing it himself; just as a merciful mother shows her beloved daughter how to perform a task, by pwerforming it herself. Similarly, Rama(Vishnu) and Sita(Lakshmi) have provided an example through their lives. Any avatara is an expression of God's compassion. But, this is particularly true for Rama and Sita.

The true test of Dharmic conduct is during troubles. One may perform the Dharma as long as it is convenient. But, it takes great commitment to adher to one's own Dharma even in hostile conditions. But, even in hostile conditions, one must stick to Dharma because ultimately   यतो धर्मः ततो जयः (yatho dharmah thato jayah i.e. Victory is there where Dharma is) and धर्मो रक्षति रक्षितः (dharmo rakshati rakshitah i.e. Dharma protects those who adher to it). Rama and Sita provide this teaching by their consduct.

Lets return to the question: what was Vashishta Maharshi's objective in being the kulaguru of Raghu Dynasty?
As already explained, the first point is that Vashishta Maharshi is performing his sva-dharma.

The second point is that Vashishta Maharshi wished to perform service to Lord. Vashishta Maharshi was a great seer and prognosticator. So, he knew long ago that Sri Maha Vishnu would take birth in Raghu Dynasty as a human to put an end to the Adharmic Ravana and to reveal the sumptousness of a human birth by living a life of an ideal human. And Vashishta Maharshi wished for the momentous opportunity to serve that avatar of Vishnu. One such service is naming that perfect human avatara. That magnificent moment for which Vashishta Maharshi had a prolonged wait had finally arrived today. Emperor Dasharatha humbly requested Vashishta Maharshi to bestow suitable names to his newborn babies who were dazzling with a celestial splendor.

In modern days, parents themselves select the names for their kids. But, according to the ancient indian custom, Guru(teacher), or Grandfather or some other learned person is to perform this task. The responsibility of choosing an appropriate name to the newborn has been entrusted to these people with an idea that these elders or learned persons would be able to determine the most appropriate name. Further, the name, bestowed by a learned person or an esteemed elder will, also act as an Ashirvaad(blessings) to the new born baby. These blessings will guard the new born from any harm and guide his/her life to a fulfilling life without troubling others.

Vashishta Maharshi, being the kulaguru of Raghu Dynasty, was requested by the emperor Dasharatha to kindly select the suitable names for his newborn children. The wise Vashishta Maharshi chose the names for the four resplendent children with much care and great insight. Vashishta maharshi's purpose of naming the kids was not just to give some nice sounding names. His intentions were much more magnanimous. The maharshi was anxious to name the Vishu's human avatar in such a manner that merely uttering that name should save the souls caught in the web of sansara(worldly affairs). Maharshi wanted a name which would have the power to relieve the innumerable souls drowning in this deep ocean of worldly affairs(sansar) and carry them to the abode of Vishnu. The name had to be simple and easily pronouncible for everyone, so that everyone could chant it and benefit from it. The names had to reflect the personalities of the newborn babies. Vashishta maharshi, put a lot of thought, in naming the four handsome princes, who were human incarnations of none other than Sri Maha Vishnu.

Vashishta Maharshi named the first born child as रामा (RAMA).
जय श्री राम!               ( Jai Sri Ram!
जय श्री राम!                 Jai Sri Ram!
जय जय श्री राम!!!        JAI JAI SRI RAM!!! )

The word 'रामा (RAMA)' means one who pleases all. रमायति इति रामा (ramayati iti Rama). It is believed that anyone who merely sings or chants or writes the name रामा (RAMA) and anyone who reads or listens or preaches Ramayana, he/she will experience boundless happiness and abundant prosperity. Infact, रामा (RAMA) is considered a Mantram(powerful sound). Since it is considered a mantram, the name 'Rama' could be meditated(dhyana) upon.

There goes an anecdote that once upon a time in Kailasa, Parvati Devi(consort of Shiva) asks Lord Shiva thus," O Lord, what is the most easiest method in which intelligent people can obtain the fruit of reciting/reading Vishnu Sahasranamam?" Parvati devi is asking for a shortcut of obtaining the fruit of Vishnu Sahasranamam without actually reciting/reading it.

Then, Lord Shiva replied to Parvati Devi thus,

"श्री रामा रामा रामेति रमे रामे मनोरमे ।

सहस्रनाम तत् तुल्यं रामा नाम वरानने ॥"

( Sri Rama Rama Ramethi rame rame manorame |
sahasra nama tat tulyamrama nama varanane || )

Lord Shiva explained to his beloved wife, Parvati devi, that uttering 'Rama, Rama, Rama' is equivalent to reciting or reading the entire Vishnu Sahasranama(thousand names of Vishnu). People can obtain the gains of reciting the vishnu sahasranama(thousand names of Vishnu) by merely chanting the holy name of Rama thrice. The name 'Rama', Lord Shiva says, has the power to fill the hearts of the people with joy and peace. Thus, the name 'Rama' is an infinitely powerful.

The names and forms of Gods should never be thought of as mundane. Mortal names and forms are also mortal and ordinary. But, names and forms of Gods are not such.

This also makes Sri Ramayana very powerful. Ramayana is considered an amrutha(a divine elixir which makes the gods immortal) which generates tranquility for the soul of the people who read or listen to it. Sri Ramayana is worshipped by many great many people believing that it has the capacity to relieve one from the most dire and ominous difficulties. Wise people believe Sri Ramayana to be no less than a sanjeevani(medicine that can revive the dead). Sri Ramayana, it is believed, can alleviate a mortal from the cycle of life and death. Sri Ramayana is considered to possess the power to reform a person's life, character and soul, thereby reorient his life towards success, glory, riches and peace by inculcating Dharma and removing the fickleness of heart and unsteadiness of sensory organs.

According to Hinduism(Santhana Dharma), every soul takes a birth, lives a life, and dies. Then after the death the soul again takes another birth, lives a life, and dies. This cycle of birth and death continues until the soul can attain Moksha( Nirvana ). Souls are born again and again. Sometimes as a human, sometimes as an animal, sometimes as an insect, sometimes as a plant, sometimes as a bird...etc. Every time a soul is born, it suffers pain and pleasure depending on its previously accumulated account of Papam(negative karma) and Punyam(positive karma). After a certain period, the soul's body dies, only so that the soul can take another birth with another body. This phenomenon is true for all beings of the universe, whether inert or animated: humans, birds, insects, animals, plants, or even Rakshasas(demons). When someone follows Dharma, they gain Punyam. When someone defies dharma then they are considered to have committed an Adharma. When someone has committed Adharma, they acquire Papam. Punyam(positive karma) has to be later enjoyed by a soul as a pleasure. Papam(negative karma) has to be later suffered by a soul as a pain. Body is the instrument through which a soul either suffers pain or enjoys a pleasure. Without body, a soul is incapable of enjoying any physical pleasure or pain. If we note carefully, then we realize that everytime someone enjoys a pleasure, he is spending his Punyam. Just like we buy an item by paying cash. Similarly, we enjoy pleasure by exhausting our Punyam. The same applies for papam. Whenever, someone suffers a pain, their account of Papam decreases.

But once a soul occupies a body, it again performs some deed which again results in either Punyam or Papam. To suffer the newly acquired Punyam or Papam, the soul needs another body which will perform more tasks entailing Punyam or Papam. Thus, the cycle of life and death is vicious and perplexing.

It is believed that a soul's life-death cycle can be divided into two phases: a soul's journey through this vicious life-death cycle before listening/reading Sri Ramayana and after listening/reading Sri Ramayana. Before listening/reading Sri Ramayana, the soul keeps wandering through life and death suffering miserably not knowing the purpose of life. The soul spends each life as if this is the first and last. It fawningly hankers after unsatisfiable desires. But after listening/reading Sri Ramayana, a soul's journey is reoriented towards the ultimate purpose of life bestowing eternal serenity to the soul. Such is the greatness of Sri Ramayana.

In such an extraordinary Sri Ramayana, Vashishta Maharshi has the unique distinction of being the one who has bestowed the holy name of 'Rama' to the world as a gift to mankind. A name that has captured the imagination of generations for centuries, nay, millenias. Generation after generation in India has revered the name 'Rama', sung its glory and benefitted from it. Not just India, Ramayana's influence had spread to so many countries around India. Indian civilization without Sri Ramayana is a body without soul. Sri Ramayana is the embodiment of ancient indian customs, traditions, values, beliefs, morals, literature, arts, tastes, and much much more.

There goes a story that once upon a time, Lord Shiva proclaimed that Moksha will be granted to anyone who expires in Kashi city situated on the bank of holy river Ganga. Some celestials were perplexed and asked how anyone can be granted the supreme state of Moksha just because their death occured in Kashi.

They reasoned thus,"Oh Shambo mahadeva! Any being which has taken a birth will have to die at some place or the other. Accidentally, someone may be present in Kashi city at his/her hour of death, but that is not adequate qualification for conferring Moksha, which is elusive for even the celestials like us. Oh lord! An individual is eligible for Moksha only if he has transcended the Maya(illusion) by Gyanam(wisdom), is it not?"

Then, Lord Triyambaka replied," What you have said is true. A being can attain the highest state of Moksha only with Gyanam and Bhakti. So, I will arrange such that any being who expires in Kashi city will become a Gyani in his/her hour of death. Just before the death claims them, they will realise all the Gyanam and be freed from all illusions."

Instead of clearing the doubts, the answer of the Lord only added to the confusion of the Celestials.

"O majestic lord!", said the confused Celestials humbly saluting to Lord Shiva," Is it possible for someone who has spent all their life in pursuit of abject desires to realise the subtle Gyanam(knowledge) in the fleeting moment of death? As the fierce death approaches, the searing pain in the body becomes intolerable. The body effuses various toxic effluvia through all the pores. All the sensory organs fail one after another. Memory and intellect wreck down. The very breathing becomes cumbersome and tedious causing enormous pain as the air passes through. The adjutants of Yama, with their grotesque forms, become visible to a dying man, terrorising him. The soul makes desperate attempts to escape the awful noose that those adjutants of Yama use to snarl their victims. The adjutants of Yama coercively fix the noose around the neck of their prey and mercilessly drag the soul out of his beloved body. The mind at that time, flashes random images from past. Some see their favourite food, some perceive their fawning children, some think of their beloved lover, and some see their precious possessions. Thus, a person on his deathbed becomes oblivious to his very sorroundings. Then how can, oh Shankara, Gyanam be realised in that state?"

Then, the God of Gods, Mahadeva replied with a beautiful smile," I will go myself and impart the sacred taraka mantra of 'Sri Rama' just before death claims a person in Kashi city. A person who has learnt the powerful taraka mantra 'Rama' with myself as the teacher, will realise all the Gyanam intuitively."

Such is the grandeur of the name 'Rama' which was gifted to the world by the benevolent Vashishta Maharshi. The exalted maharshi chose the name 'Rama' with great caution. Maharshi seeked a name that could alleviate the suffering of its utterer immediately.

Mantras are vocal lyrical hymns in praise of a certain deity. The mantras are supposed to posssess great powers. There are many mantras prescribed in shaastras, each mantra having its special utility. But the utilization of mantras is not a simple affair. There are several preconditions. Mantras are often tongue twisters for amateurs. Also each mantra is associate with a special tune(chandasu). A mantra has to be chanted in special tune(chandhasu) associated with it. Only experts with extensive training are able to pronounce the mantras properly in appropriate tune. Even a slight misspelling of a mantra can have adverse effects. Mantra is strictly based on the correct spelling or pronounciation. Therefore, even though mantras are very powerful, not many people can exploit them to their advantage. So, many magnificent mantras are beneficial to a limited set of people.

Knowing this state of affairs, the magnanimous Vashishta maharshi bestowed a remarkable name 'Rama' which is also a mantram. An uncomplicated mantram that is easy to spell and simple to remember, yet extremely powerful to its utterer. This is the peculiarity of the mantram 'Rama'. A person of any background, regardless of his education and knowledge of sanskrit, is able to pronounce the name 'Rama'. There are no preconditions in the use of this mantram. Any person of any class, caste, education, sect and background is welcome to partake the benefits of the name 'Rama'. Vashishta Maharshi wanted the name to be accessible to all the mankind. The benevolent maharshi was eager that everyone avail of the infinite power manifested in the name 'Rama' like a father would be anxious for his children's welfare.

Speech is considered an exceptional boon in Sanatana Dharma(Hinduism). Of the many living beings in the world, man is the only creature that has the gift of the gab. This gift can lead to an individual's progress or degeneration, depending on its utilization. Without doubt, speech plays a very important role in determining a man's condition in life. A man can befriend others by his words or turn them into bitter foes. An eloquent man can sway the people to his line of thought. A man can earn many a promotions in life with skillful employment of words. A talented speaker can gain power to rule the men. Or conversely, a man can even land in jail due to his speech. And even invite death due to speech. An oncoming bloodthirsty enemy with a raised sword, can be befriended by a fluent speaker. This is said to be Dharmaraja's(Yuddishter's) feature. He, with his skillful words, could befriend even a bloodthirsty enemy. Conversely, Duryodhana, with his rude talk and pompous behaviour earned many curses from those who came to advise him. Therefore, skillful use of exclusive gift of gab is greatly stressed in Santana Dharma. Undoubtedly, the influence of words on human heart cannot be over-emphasized.

The compassionate Vashishta Maharshi has showed the entire mankind the most easiest way of using the exclusive gift of speech to escape the clutches of grinding cycle of life and death: by chanting the holy name of 'Rama'. People can harness the energy within the word 'Rama' by uttering or singing or chanting it and be saved by its power. The name 'Rama' possesses such eminence because Vashishta Maharshi has packed a lot of power into this wonderful two sylabble name. 'Rama' is called a taraka nama(a name that can ferry a soul across the deep ocean of worldly affairs or sansar and bestow the supreme bliss). The name 'Rama' derives its power from its composition. The name 'Rama' is made up of two bheeja aksharas(alphabetical seeds/syllables): Agni bheeja(Ra) and Amrutha bheeja(Ma). Agni bheeja energises the soul, mind and body. Amrutha bheeja reinvigorates the prana shakti(life force) in all the body. As a result, just uttering the holy name 'Rama' or listening to it or writing it or reading it or meditating on it, generates a great power that rejuvenates the body and mind, while energizing the soul.

Such is the glory of the name 'Rama' that was conferred upon the eldest son of Emperor Dasharatha by Brahmarshi Vashishta Maharshi. The next child(born to mother Kaikeyi) was named Bharata by Vashishta Maharshi. 'Bharata' means one who bears the responsibility. In Sri Ramayana, Bharata endured the responsibility of the Khoshala kingdom, when Rama was exiled to the forest by his father Dasharatha. The peculiarity in Bharata's manner of managing the Kingdom is that he endured the responsibility, along with the powers and perks that accompany it, without becoming vain, arrogant or attached to that position. He bore the responsibility, keeping firmly in mind, that the Kingdom was the property of Rama and he was merely an agent of Rama.

We usually notice that people who are appointed to high offices grow pompous with time. They become addicted to the powers and perks that the position accrues. They do not like to separate from that position of power and devise various means, even immoral, to perpetuate their power and influence. Even if these people are simply appointed as incharges or elected as temporary representatives, they still develop an affection for the privileges that the position accrues and do not want to part from those luxuries, powers, and respect that this high position grants them. For instance, if someone were to be promoted to as the General Manager of a business venture and then after a year he is demoted, then it would be very hard for him to work under someone else, especially if that someone has previously worked under him. We notice, around the world, that the politicians try to hang on to their elected and temporary posts and some even resort to malpractises to save their seats of power. This is general the way of the world.

But, Bharata was unique in this aspect. He bore the responsibility of the vast kingdom of Khosala for fourteen long years without any opposition. Yet, he was never pompous. He never assumed the empire to be his own. He did not develop any affection towards the royal privileges or perks of power. And as soon as Rama returned from the exile, Bharata returned the kingdom without even slightest remorse. This is no ordinary feat. But just because he did not consider the kingdom as his own, does not mean he neglected the administration duties. He ruled the kingdom of Khosala exceedingly well. Throughout the fourteen years that he ruled as an incharge of Rama, he always considered himself as merely a devoted servant of his elder brother, Sri Rama. And these fourteen years, he took great care of all the needs of the people and kingdom with great devotion. Bharatha endured the responsibility of Kingdom in such a fine manner. So, the omnipotent Vashishta Maharshi named him as Bharatha(one who bore or bears the great responsibility).

The next child(born to mother Sumitra) was named Lakshmana by Vashishta Maharshi. 'Lakshmana' means one who enjoys the grace of Goddess Lakshmi. Goddess Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and prosperity. She is also the consort of Sri Maha Vishnu. This name, therefore, is very interesting. If 'Lakshmana' means one who has the grace of goddess of wealth and prosperity, then we will generally expect that one with that name would have enjoyed great luxuries in his life. But, we notice in Sri Ramayana that Lakshmana consciously chooses to forego luxuries for the sake of his brothers, particularly his elder brother Sri Rama.

Lakshmana was offered the position of Yuvaraja(prince) by Rama after Sri Rama became the Monarch, but Lakshmana declined it and asked Rama to bestow the Yuvraja's position to Bharata.

Before that, it was only Rama who was asked to go on an exile into the forest by Emperor Dasharatha. Sitadevi, being the wife ,followed Sri Rama into forest. Lakshmana was neither asked nor did anybody expected him to follow Rama into the dense forests. Lakshmana could have easily stayed back in Ayodhya and enjoyed all the exuberant luxuries that royalty affords. Instead Lakshmana accompanied Rama into forest. Rama attempted in various ways to dissuade Lakshmana from following him to the grisly forests, but Lakshmana insisted. And finally, he followed Rama and spent fourteen years in gruesome forests. A devoted wife following her beloved husband is quite understandable, but how many brothers would like to relinquish the luxuries of royalty and subsist in forest for fourteen years just for the brotherly love? Only a Lakshmana would do that! He even left behind his wife and tolerated the separation from her for fourteen long years. Then, how can he be called Lakshmana(one who has the grace of Goddess Lakshmi)?

The explanation is that there are two kinds of bhakti(devotion). Bharata represents one form of it and Lakshmana represents the other. Bharata represents a devotee who can live away(physically) from Sri Rama(god) and still perform the duties entrusted to him by Rama(god). Bharata was given the padukas(foot wear) and was told to rule the Kingdom using these padukas as the symbol of Rama, he did it exceedingly well. This represents mental-devotion(manasa bhakti). Even if the devotee is immersed in some other worldly activity, they mentally always remember the god and are devoted to him. They consider all their worldly responsibilities, possessions and powers as bestowed by God and strive to fulfill them sincerely. They do not grow vain nor do they get attached to these worldly affairs.

Lakshmana represents another kind of bhakti(devotion). Lakshamana does not like to remain apart from Sri Rama(god) for any reason. He himself declares at a certain point in Ramayana that he cannot bear the separation from Sri Rama. Lakshmana represents a devotee who likes to serve the lord directly(physically). Merely mental devotion does not satisfy such a devotee(represented by Lakshamana). The devotee wants to be in direct physical presence of the Lord, serving him, observing him, and revering him. Lakshamana wishes to serve the lord at all costs. Even when he had to reliquish the royal comforts, luxuries and powers for Lord's service, he did not mind. Even when he had to subsist in terrible forests leaving behind his dear wife, Lakshmana did not waver. This unwavering determination to serve Lord(Sri Rama) is considered the real grace of Goddess Lakshmi. The firm resolve to serve the Lord is the real wealth. That wealth is far more valuable than the material wealth. This attitude of Lakshamana is the true grace of Goddess Lakshmi. Thus, he is named Lakshmana(one who has the grace of Goddess Lakshmi).

The next child(born to mother Sumitra) was named Shatrughna by Vashishta Maharshi. 'Shatru' means 'enemy' and 'Shatrughna' means one who has conquered his enemies. We notice that in Sri Ramayana, there is hardly any mention of battles fought by Shatrughana. Then, why the name Shatrughana?

Here, the 'shatru'(enemy) is not an external foe but an internal one. Winning an outside enemy for someone as mighty and courageous as Shatrughana is not a big deal. Kshatriyas fight many battles and defeat foes, it is very common. The real achievement is that he has overcome those wily internal enemies that are so hard to be repressed by even the most strongest warriors. It is said that Kama(desire), Krodha(anger) and Lobha(greed) are the three gateways to hell. These are the internal enemies. Sensory organs like eye(sight), ear(sound), tongue(taste/speech), nose(smell),and skin(touch) are fickle in nature and drive a human towards great sins.

A human body is generally compared to a chariot in the indian spirituality. The fickle sensory organs are compared to wild horses dragging the chariot. Buddhi(intellect) is compared to the chrioteer. And the soul is compared to the traveller in the chariot. The traveller(soul) can journey safely in chariot(body) only if the charioteer(buddhi or intellect) controls the horses(senses) and guides them properly. Otherwise, if the horses(senses) are uncontrolled, then the accidents will occur. Or if the misguided charioteer(buddhi or intellect) drives the chariot(body) in wrong direction(sinful path), the travellor(soul) will not reach his destination(bliss of Moksha).

Similarly, the fickle sensory organs must be controlled through the intellect(buddhi), otherwise accidents will occur in life. Also the intellect(buddhi) must be strained in the right direction(Sath buddhi) otherwise the soul will not reach its destination of moksha. The only way to conquer the five internal enemies namely Kama ( Desire ), Krodha ( Anger), Lobha ( Greed ), Madha ( Vanity ), Matsarya ( malice ) is by restraining the fickle sensory organs( Eyes, Ears, Nose, Tongue and Skin ) through intellect(buddhi/intellect) trained by Dharma shaastras(scriptures) and religious rituals. The consistent and regular adherence to religius ritual along with the knowledge of Dharma shaastras leads to wisdom. Wisdom carries a human being, beyond the narrow bias of like and dislike(raga and dwesha). Transcending both love(raga) and hatred(dvesha) are the keys to peace of mind. Finally, the soul transcends both the worldly pain and pleasure. One who learns to renconcile both pain and pleasure would finally be able to pierce the illusion( Maya ) of the world and achieve Moksha.

Shatrughna has conquered such vicious internal foes. He has achieved this feat by plunging himself in the devotion of the Lord(Rama) and in the service of Lord's devotees(Bharata). Thus, he was named Shatrughna(One who has conquered the foes).

All the names bestowed by Vashishta Maharshi proved to be prophetic. All the four kids grew up to be bright, splendid, strong, handsome, energetic, tall, intelligent and obedient. Rama charmed all the beings, not just humans, with his polite and virtuous behaviour. Every being was filled with joy at the mere sight of Rama. Dasharatha, the doting father, was ecstatic with Rama's conduct. All the four young princes were sent to Vashishta maharshi for schooling, as he was the kulaguru of Raghava dynasty. All the four kids learnt the lessons taught at school exceedingly well. All of them learnt, to the same degree, the essence of Vedas and other associated sciences. All of them impressed their guru(Vashishta) with their Shraddha(interest/passion) in the education. Shraddhavaan labhate gyanam(the one with shraddha gains the knowledge) ringed true with those four princes. All the four princes were well disposed towards all the beings of the world. They wished for and worked towards the welfare of every being. They always wished for the prosperity, peace and happiness of all beings.

This attitude of being sympathetic towards all the beings, is emphasized a lot in Indian scriptures like Sri Ramayana, Mahabharata and other hindu literatures. Any talent, ability or skill that a person may possess, naturally or through acquired through practice, must be employed in the welfare of society and other individuals. A person may possess abundant might, extraordinary beauty, extensive knowledge, keen intellect, vast wealth or great power, but that is not enough. These possessions do not determine whether the person is good or bad. The bottomline is how these talents or skills are utilized by that person. If these abilities are used by that person to manipulate others,..to destroy others,...to corrupt others; then that person is evil. All those skills only multiply that person's ability to cause harm to others. In contrast, if a person uses these abilities to achieve his own self-interests without hurting others, then he is a normal person. If a person employs his skills and talents for the protection and welfare of others, then he is a virtuous person.

Another aspect in this is that an individual must not grow vain or pompous with regard to his knowledge, skills, talents or abilities. Vanity, invariably, drives one to commit deeds that cause harm to oneself and others. There is a story of Bhasmasura in Puranas. Bhasmasura was a mighty rakshasa(demon) who desired to be most powerful being in all the three worlds. He came to the conclusion that to attain his objective, he should take recourse to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. Thus, having resolved, he travelled to the icy mountains of himalayas and began a very severe tapasya(meditative penance). That demon passed many years in the rigorous tapasya, Lord Shiva pleased with his firm devotion, appeared before the rakshasa. Lord Shiva asked Bhasmasura the reason for such rigorous tapasya. Bhasmasura seeked a boon such that his palms should have a special power such that when his palms are placed on anyone's head, then that person should immediately be consumed by fire and turn into ashes. Bhasmasura wanted this power to have no exception, that means ANYONE on whose head, he places his palms will have to burn down. The omniscient Lord Shiva knew what would be the end result of this boon. The Lord smiled benevolently and said, "As you wish..." Now, Bhasmasura had acquired the power that he wished for. His palms had the power to turn any being into ashes. But a notion passed through the mind of the wicked Bhasmasura. He said to Lord Shiva," I am unable to believe that you have indeed made me so powerful. I need to test this boon on someone, very powerful, to confirm that the boon is indeed working. So, I will place my palm over your head and if you turn into ashes, then I will believe that I am powerful." Saying thus, he attempted to place his palms over the head of Lord himself. Lord Triyambaka vanished from the spot. Bhasmasura sneered," Even Lord Shiva has fled for he could not face my power." Meanwhile, Lord Vishnu disguised himself as a beautiful divine maiden and appeared before Bhasmasura. The beauty of the maiden enticed Bhasmasura. The vain Bhasmasura approached the maiden and declared his lover for her. Sri Maha Vishnu in the disguise of maiden pretended to blush and replied," I am a dancer and I will love you, if you can perform all the dance postures that I can perform." Bhasmasura maddened by the beauty of the maiden agreed to her condition. Then, Bhasmasura emulated each dance posture that the maiden performed. She performed various dance postures and he emulated all of them successfully. Then, she executed a dance posture which involved placing her palms over her own head. Bhasmasura who had become oblivious to everything but the maiden and her beauty, emulated the dance posture. Without thinking he placed his own palms on his own head. Immediately, a violent fire consumed him and turned him into ashes. This story is very interesting. God gave Bhasmasura a great gift. Instead of being grateful to the God for it, Bhasmasura grew vain and pompous. He challenged the God himself. So, the Lord crafted a situation such that the very power, of which Bhasmasura was vain, consumed him. This applies to all the humans. Every human is endowed with some gift: strength, beauty, wealth, learning, fame, influence, power, intellect,or youth...etc. And if a person grows proud of his abilities and defies the God or Dharma, then that very ability will lead him to his ruin. Thus, the real purpose of education or acquisition of skills is welfare of Society and to teach the people to be humble of their abilities.

Back to story: Rama, Bharatha, Lakshmana and Shatrughna were kindly predisposed towards all and therefore their education, intellect, skill, knowledge, strength, power and beauty would not be used to harm the world or any being in it. But instead the princes employ their skills to protect everyone. Their strength would be used to protect the meek and weak from the wicked. Their warfare skills would be utilized to guarantee peace for the virtuous and to punish the unrigteous. Rama was extremely beautiful but he vowed to marry once and only once. Rama was greatly skilled and vastly intelligent. But he vowed that he would always speak truth and nothing but the truth.

Thus, the skills acquired by the four princes were not utilized by them to hurt others, but to guard the world. They always strived to give all beings peace and happiness. All the virtuous qualities shined brightly in those four princes. The qualities will shine only when they are followed up with appropriate practice, regularly and consistently. For instance, Rama was taught that when someone asks for a refuge, a kshatriya is obliged to give the refuge. Rama did not just confine this lesson taught to him in school to a mere theory. He diligently practiced it in his life. Vibhishana (younger brother of Ravana) himself, came to Rama seeking refuge in suspecting circumstances. Not many in Rama's camp trusted this request for a refuge due to the timing. But Rama declared," A kshatriya is obliged to give the refuge and I will not avoid my obligation. If Ravana himself apologises and seeks refuge, I will grant him that. So, I will grant refuge to Vibhishina." That is the commitment of Sri Rama. Thats the reason all the qualities taught to him by his teachers shined in him.

All the four princes, specially Rama, perfectly learnt the art of fighting on the back of horses and elephants. All the four princes, particularly Rama, enraptured their father(Emperor Dasharatha) with their righteous conduct and obedience. Those kids were about the age of 12-16yrs now.

Those four brothers were very affectionate with each other and shared great brotherly affection. Lakshmana, in particular, loved and served his elder brother Rama dearly. Rama also, in return, loved his brother Lakshmana dotingly. Sometimes, we come across some people who follow others very fawningly. But those whom they follow, do not care about them. They view them with contempt. But, in case of Rama and Lakshmana, the brothers' affection was mutual. Lakshmana served Rama dearly. And Rama...what exactly did Rama feel about his younger brother, Lakshmana?

Maharshi Valmiki says that Rama could not sleep if Lakshmana was not present in the vicinity. Maharshi has says that Rama could not sleep, what does that mean? Sleep is something that people do not have much control over. A person, usually, cannot have a good sleep if his heart is not peaceful. Whenever a person's heart is restless, troubled or excited, he will not be able to slip into a sleep even if he wants to. All the external comforts and luxuries may be furnished. A beautiful, clean and comfy bed, a warm bedsheet, nice envirnoment, and cool breeze or any number of other comforts...may be provided to a person, but that does not guarantee that he will have a good sleep. If his heart is agitated, then he cannot sleep inspite of all these luxuries. Thus, Rama cannot sleep if Lakshmana is not in the vicinity because Rama's heart would not be peaceful if Lakshmana is not present with him.

Various kinds of delicious food dishes did not interest Rama, if Lakshmana was not present by his side. Such was the fondness of Rama towards Lakshmana. Lakshmana on his part was also totally devoted to his elder brother. Maharshi calls Lakshmana as the bahirpranam(external life) of Rama. It means that if something untoward were to happen to Lakshmana, then Rama would not be alive. Thats why, when the time had come for ending the Rama avatar, firstly the devas(gods) took away Lakshmana. Then Rama also entered into the Sarayu river as he could not bear living without his dear brother. This incident is narrated in the Uttara Khanda of Sri Ramayana. Thus, Rama and Lakshmana have become the epitome of brotherly love and affection over the ages. Thats the reason when the order of the four princes is described, Rama's name is usually followed by the name of Lakshmana and not Bharatha, even though Bharatha was born next, after Rama. And Lakshmana was born after Bharatha. It is interesting to note that Rama and Lakshmana are not born to the same mother...Rama and Lakshmana are step-brothers!!! Sri Ramayana teaches us such broad-minded and beautiful family values...

All the four princes shined with a divine lustre. They had many virtuous qualities that increased with their age. The princes were growing up beautifully. Maharshi Valmiki says that the four princes were so righteous, that even if a wrong or improper notion passed in their minds, they would be ashamed of it. This is a quality of virtuous people. All the four princes had good fame. They acquired vast knowledge in all fields. And they were farsighted.

Emperor Dasharatha was delighted with his children and their righteous conduct.

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जय श्री राम ! ( Jai Sri Ram )

Ramayana Story Contd: Birth of Sri Rama

2010-08-03T22:01:00.000-07:00

जय श्री राम !
( Jai Sri Ram )

शुक्ल अम्बरा धरां विष्णुं,
शशि वर्णं चतुर भुजं ।
प्रसन्ना वदनं ध्यायेत्,
सर्व विघ्न उपाशन्तयेत् ॥
( Shuklambharadaram vishnum,
Shashivarnam chaturbhujam |
prasannavadanam dhyayet,
sarvavignopshantayet || )

नमस्ते अस्तु भगवन् विश्वेश्वराय महादेवाय त्रियम्बकाय त्रिपुरान्तकाय त्रिकग्निकालय ,
कालाग्निरुद्राय निलकन्ताय मृत्युञ्जयाय सर्वेश्वराय सदाशिवाय श्रीमन् महादेवाय नमः ।
( Namaste astu bhagawan Vishveshvaraya, Mahadevaya,
Triyamabakaya Tripurantakaya Trikaganikalaya,
Kalagnirudraya Nilakantaya Mrityunjayaya,
Sarveshvaraya Sadashivaya Sriman Mahadevaya namah | )

वनमाली गदी शन्गी शङ्की चक्री च नन्दकी ,
श्रीमन् नारायणो विष्णु वसुदेवोभि रक्षतु ।

( Vanamali gadhisangi shanki chakri cha nandaki,
Sriman Narayano Vishnu Vasudevobhi rakshatu | )

Dasharatha, the mighty Emperor of Khosala Kingdom, was ruling in a magnificent manner. Citizens and rural folk of Khosala were leading a happy and contended life. The dwellers of Khosala were highly affluent and lived a luxurious life, but they never deviated from the path of Dharma. In Khosala, every individual was well-educated, cultured, and wealthy. Everyone wore elaborate attires made of rich silk garments. Everyone was adorned with golden ornaments, golden ear-rings and golden Mukuts( golden helmet. Look to the picture at right, Lord Krishna is shown wearing a golden mukut decorated with a peacock feather.). Every man wore beautiful garlands of auspicious flowers around their neck(Notice that in the above picture, Sri Rama and Lakshmana are also wearing a garland of flowers). Wearing a garland of flowers was considered a mark of polished manners in the Indian culture in olden times. Thus, the people of Khosala were rich, educated and cultured. However, the most vital hallmark of the people of Khosala was that every person was steadfastly committed to Dharma. Naturally, there was peace and prosperity all around in Khosala.

There is a saying in sanskrit: 'Yatha raja, Thata praja'
It means: 'People will be, as the King is'.

The people's behaviour, welfare and beliefs are dictated by the behaviour, ruling and beliefs of the King. In any organisation, the leadership dictates how the organisation will shape up. It is the leadership that decides which behaviour is to be encouraged and what activities are to be punished. Using reward and punishment, the leader can very easily and effectively guide all his subordinates. Thus, the role of leadership in any organisation is critical. If that organisation happens to be a large state, then the role of the leadership(ruler) is further amplified.

A ruler plays the most important role. In any society, only those vocations, arts, ideas, studies, attires, languages, religious beliefs gain prominence which are promoted by the state(ruler). Those arts, vocations, attires, languages, religious beliefs, studies and ideas that are discouraged by the state become unpopular and extinct. Artists and scholars, who play a chief role in shaping the social discourse, are dependent on the ruler patronage. Ruler decides which businesses are to be supported and which ventures are to be opposed. Ruler decides when there will be war. He decides the economic policies. Everyone's life is framed around the decisions taken by the ruler. Thus, a ruler directly or indirectly decides what his subjects will read, wear, eat, say, listen, and think. In short, people reflect their rulers. So, it is extremely important to have a dharmic ruler for a dharmic society.

Now, Khosala is a dharmic society. And the credit for this feat goes to the long line of illustrious Kings of Ikshvaku dynasty. The great Kings of Ikshvaku followed the dharma in their personal lives and implemented it in their country. They lead their people by example. When someone preaches, what he himself does not practice, then it is not received favourably by the people. Only those who practice what they preach are respected and emulated by the people. Ikshvaku Rulers knew it and so, they never compromised on Dharma in their personal or public lives. Those who lives public lives are always under constant scrutiny. Moreover, there is no distinction between personal lives and public lives. A person who lies in his private life cannot claim to uphold truth in his public life, because it is not convincing. People who hold responsible public offices not only have to be Dharmic, they also have to appear Dharmic. It is very important.

So, Ikshvaku rulers never wavered from the path of Dharma, come what may. So, they earned fair fame. Dasharatha followed in the ideal of his ancestors.

Any King depends on his ministers for good administration to be carried out. There is an interesting analogy to the relationship of King and his ministers: A minister is to King as a trunk is to an elephant.

The elephant is mighty and strong, but without its trunk, the elephant is effectively rendered futile. Similarly, a King needs effecient and righteous ministers. The mighty Dasharatha was able to give such a good governance as he had appointed eight able ministers. The administration of Dasharatha was a great success due to the eight ministers of Dasharatha who were highly efficient, skilled, unbiased, intellectual and dharmic. With such a good king and such able ministers, the administration was transparent and timely. Justice delayed is justice denied. In Khosala, Justice was neither delayed nor denied to anyone. People of Khosala were, therefore, content with their lives.

The capital of Khosala was the city of Ayodhya. Ayodhya is a sanskrit word. It means 'unassailable' in Sanskrit. Ayodhya, the capital city of Khosala, was equivalent to the Heaven in its splendor, grandeur and strength. People of Ayodhya loved their Emperor exceedingly. Thus, life was beautiful for all the people of Khosala but for one defect. People of Khosala and the Emperor Dasharatha had a nagging worry.

Emperor Dasharatha was ruling his Empire like Indra rules Heaven. His wealth and might were like that of Kubera, Lord of Yakshas. Emperor Dasharatha had beautiful and dutiful wives, his subjects were loyal to him, his people loved him, but he had one thing missing in his life......Emperor Dasharatha had no progeny. Kingdom of Khosala had no successor. This aspect worried the public and gave sleepless nights to Dasharatha. The Emperor yearned for kids but his wish remained unfulfilled for long.

Every man carries three debts from the time of birth, according to Shaastras(scriptures):
a)First debt is deva runam(debt to Gods).
b)Second debt is Rishi runam(debt to rishis/sages).
c)Third debt is Pitru runam(debt to ancestors).

Please bear with me, while I explain this concept. If you find it unnecessary, skip to the story part. But, the story wont be properly understood without understanding this concept.
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a)Deva Runam:
Deva means Gods and Runam means debt. So, Deva Runam means debt towards Gods.

According to Shaastras(scriptures), every human is indebted to various Gods for the boons that he receives from them. Every human is depending on devas(gods) for his day-to-day existence.

But first, we must know who are Devas or Devatas(Gods)?

One can broadly categorize Gods into groups:
a) 12 Adityas ( Dwadasha Adityas )
b) 11 Rudras ( Ekadasha Rudras )
c) 8 Vasus ( Ashta Vasus )
d) 2 Ashwinis

Total = 12 + 11 + 8 + 2 = 33. So, Hinduism has a total of 33 Koti (Category) of Gods. The colonial and the communist 'indologists' have wrongly interpreted the term Koti as 'crore'(10 million). They have, thus, wrongly concluded that Hinduism has 330 million Gods. But, the term 'Koti' does not refer to any mathematical figure. It simply signals that there are 33 types of Gods.

There are several sub-divisions within it. Each division or sub-division is headed by a God. It is an elaborate and intricate system.

It is like a large cosmic cabinet of ministers(or board of directors) with each minister having some portfolios(powers) under his control. This cosmic cabinet is headed by a cosmic God-King or God-CEO. This God-King(or God-CEO) is Indra(picture to the right) who is also ruler of Heaven. .

Some of the popular deities in this cosmic cabinet are:
a) Vayu ( Wind God ),
b) Agni ( Fire God ),
c) Surya ( Sun God ),
d) Kubera ( The Lord of Wealth and ruler of Yakshas ),
e) Varuna ( Water God ),
f) Soma ( Moon God ),
g) Yama ( God of Death ),
h) Brihaspati ( Teacher of Gods )
i) 2 Ashwinis ( Divine Healers )
j) Parjanyas ( Cloud energies ) ... etc .

In Hinduism(Sanatana Dharma), the entire creation has a gross physical manifestation and a corresponding subtler powers. The physical manifestation and subtler powers are considered an extension of the subtle divine forces. Therefore, in Hinduism, every natural force is considered to be governed by a divine deity. This divine deity is not only the ruler of the physical natural force but also ruler of the subtler divine aspect of the same force. In this manner, every natural force has a presiding deity. Since there are several forces, there will be several deities. Each deity rules/controls/governs a particular force/power/energy. Many times, a single deity is simultaneously a ruler of many different items. (One can infer that these items are related to each other subtly)

Every force/energy in the universe has a divine manager. That energy will work in several places and items. So, that divine manager(Deva) will be the presiding deity of several items simultaneously. These Devas(Gods) not only govern the physical aspect but also the subtler powers behinds these forces.
For example, Aditya is the Sun God. Sun is illuminated by the Sun God. He is also the ruler of eyes. That means, our eyes have the power to see due to the power of Sun God. It is also logical here because our eyes are able to see by receiving the reflected light only.
Similarly, Varuna is the Lord of Moisture/Water, he is also the ruler of taste. That means the tongue has the power to taste due to Lord Varuna's grace.
Similarly, Soma is the Moon God, he is also the ruler of Mind.

In this way, the entire human body has different Gods as their presiding deities.Simultaneously, these Gods are also the presiding deities of the planets (Graha).

Further, these Gods are also the rulers of directions. According to the Indian architecture(Vaastu Shaastra), there are 8 directions governed by Gods.

1) East is governed by Indra (King of Heaven and Gods),
2) South-East is governed by Agni (Fire God),
3) South is governed by Yama (God of Death),
4) South-West is governed by Nairuthi,
5) West is governed by Varuna (Water God),
6) North-West is governed by Vayu (Wind God),
7) North is governed by Kubera (King of Yakshas)
8) North-East is governed by Eesana.

Also, these Gods are related to the planets of our solar system. For example, Sun is ruled by Aditya. Or more precisely, Sun is the gross physical manifestation of Aditya. Its like Sun is the physical body and Aditya is the spirit and power behind the body that illuminated the body. Similarly, Moon is ruled by Chandra. It means that Moon is like a body and Chandra Deva(Moon God) is like its soul.

The 9 planets(Graha) are:
1) Sun (Aditya or Surya)
2) Moon (Soma or Chandra)
3) Mercury (Budha)
4) Venus (Shukhra)
5) Mars (Angaraka or Mangala)
6) Jupitor (Brihaspati)(Guru/teacher of devas)
7) Saturn (Shani)
8) Rahu
9) Ketu

These are collectively called as Navagrahas(picture to the left). Rahu and Ketu are shadows(Chaya Grahas) responsible for Solar eclipse and Lunar eclipse respectively.

These Gods are also the rulers of days of week:.
1) Sunday is ruled by Aditya(sun),
2) Monday is ruled by Soma(moon),
3) Tuesday is ruled by Angaraka(Mars),
4) Wednesday is ruled by Budha(Mercury),
5) Thursday is ruled by Brihaspati(Jupitor),
6) Friday is ruled by Shukra(Venus),
7) Saturday is ruled by Shani(Saturn).

(As we can see, the modern week structure is clearly derived from the Hindu week structure. In fact, no other religion gives any reason why there are only 7 days in a week and why a day is named after a particular planet.

Only Hinduism offers an explanation. Because there are 7 planets, there are 7 days...one day for each planet. The days are named after the planets based on astronomical activity.

According to Indian astrology(Jyotisham), a day starts with a sun rise and ends with a sun rise next day. so, the day starts in the dawn and ends at the time of next day's dawn unlike the modern definition of day from mid-night to mid-night. This entire period from dawn to dawn constitutes one single day. Each day is divided into time periods of equal length called hora. A single day contains 24 horas. Maybe the term 'hours' is a corrupted form of the original sanskrit term 'hora'. So, a single day is divided into 24 horas. And the horas are associated with 7 planets.

Now, the day of the week is determined based on the hora in which the sun rises. Example, if the sun rises in the hora associated with moon, then it is called monday(Moonday or Somavara). If the sun rises in the hora associated with sun, then it is called sunday(or Ravivara). So on and so forth.)

Thus, each God can simulatenously be the presiding deity of several physical manifestations and powers/energies. But behind all these various physical manifestations, the subtle force is the same. And this subtle force is ruled by that particular God and hence he rules all the physical manifestations that use this subtle force. Imagine each God to be a cosmic minister. Under each ministery, there are different departments. And all these departments are headed by that minister. Indra is the head of this cosmic cabinet.

(Yama is the God of death and also the administrator of the Hell.Unlike the abrahamic religions, the God of Death is not a negative personality in Hinduism. So, Yama is not similar to 'Satan' or 'Devil'. In abrahamic religions, 'God' is manager for all positive things and 'Satan' is the manager of all negative things. And there is a constant rivalry and race between 'God' and 'Satan'. But, Hinduism does not agree to this simple portrayal. According to Hinduism, entire universe with its positives and negatives is governed by the God alone. It is God does the 'positive' and the 'negative'. Hell is seen as a huge negative in Abrahamic religions because it is associated with pain. So, 'Satan' is imagined as its manager. But, in Hinduism, Hell is similar to a prison. Manager of Prison cannot be viewed as a negative personality just because he is managing prison. The manager of prison derives his sanction from the government. Similarly, Yama manages Hell. But he is not a negative personality. He derives his powers from the God only.)

Human beings depend on these various gods for day-to-day existence. A person needs timely rains, proper sun light, and heat, ...etc. A person also needs all the organs of his body to function properly. All these needs are fulfilled by the Gods. Therefore, each man is indebted to these Gods. Shaastras(scriptures) state that this debt can be cleared by performing Yagams(religious rites to please the Gods), praying(or worshiping) the gods by visiting temples and performing other vedic rituals .

As we can see, Hinduism is a complicated and sophisticated religion. So, frequently, abrahamic religions misunderstand Hinduism. Hinduism is alternatively portrayed as a polytheistic or pantheistic religion. The point is that Hinduism is above and beyond such caricaturization and categorization.

Hinduism contains the concepts of polytheism, pantheism, monotheism, and monism simultaneously.Each concept is interlinked with the other. So, frequently, abrahamics are confused with Hinduism. So, they end up concluding that Hinduism must be a mish mash of different beliefs. But, they are sorely mistaken. The problem is with the categorization itself. These categorizations were created by abrahamics. But, Hinduism defies this categorization and does not fit into the pigeon hole created by them.

The various Gods that have been mentioned above have attained Godhood owing to the punya(good karma) from their previous births. Their Godhood is not permanent, just like we will not remain human beings forever. Just like we have a death, these Gods also have an ending. Its just that their life-times are vastly greater than ours and their powers are vastly superior to ours.

Essentially, Hinduism views the universe in a completely different way compared to abrahamics. Abrahamics view universe as different from the God. Abrahamics view God as positive being and devil as a negative being. According to abrahamic religions, God is an omniscient and omnipotent being.

Hinduism's definition goes beyond this to the next crucial level: God is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent. That means, God is present everywhere in everything. God is smaller than the minutest and larger than the largest. There is nothing in the world that is devoid of God. Nothing can exist without God. So, fire has God, water has God, sun contains God, rain is God, God is within you and God is within me...etc. God is one, but the universe is myraid. So, a single God manifests in different forms to govern the universe. God has no form, so he acquires different forms for the benefit of the people. This single God is not jealous of anything or anyone. Because everything is God. There is nothing other than God. Can the God be jealous of Himself or Herself? So, one God(Monotheism) takes many forms(polytheism) to govern the universe(pantheism). But, nothing other than the God exists(Monism).

Unity in diversity... One God in diverse universe... with myriad forms and names.....

The names and forms are temporary. Universe(including Heaven and Hell) is temporary. Only the God is eternal.

Thus, it is best to avoid looking at Hinduism through the prism of abrahamic religions. Instead, one must study Hinduism from an independent perspective to understand its subtleties.

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b)Rishi Runam:
The Second debt is rishi runam(Rishi debt).

Rishis have passed on great knowledge to humans through their works. Generally, a poet or a writer composes a work for money or fame. A rishi is neither interested in material wealth or worldly fame. A rishi creates a literature with only on purpose: the welfare of the world. Thus, that literature is extremely auspicious and precious. Such great literature is gifted by the rishis to humankind. Therefore, every human is indebted to these rishis. This rishi debt can be cleared by reading/writing/teaching their works. For eg: I am indebted to Rishi Valmiki for Srimad Ramayana, and I am clearing my Rishi debt by reading Ramayana.

c)Pitru Runam:
Third debt is pitru runam(Ancestors debt). Every man is indebted to his parents for giving birth to him. Our body which is the source of all our comforts, which is also the tool for all our pursuits has been bestowed by our Parents. Therefore, we are indebted to our parents for this body and birth. This debt to parents can be cleared by giving birth to another child after marriage. Each human being must marry and then reproduce, so that he can clear his debt to his ancestors.
Generally, a son is considered to be preferable because the son carries on the name of the Gotra(clan) forward, a son can also become putra.A putra is a son who after the death of parents performs certain rites in a place named Gaya. Not every son is a putra, only that son who performs these vedic rites after the death of parents, so that the parents are eligible for a place in Heaven is called putra. This should not be construed as encouraging one gender. Because the shaastras(scriptures) also say that the parents of a girl who do a Kanyadaan(gifting the girl away in a vedic marriage) also go to heaven for a very very long time. Infact, it is said that those who do kanyadaan properly will get heaven. Whatsmore, 10 generations before them and 10 generations after them are also eligible for heaven due to that single act of Kanyadaan. Such is the greatness of Kanyadaan. Thus, a girl child is also a boon(infact, a bigger boon).
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BACK TO THE STORY:
Every person carries these three debts. These three debts are also incurred by the mighty Emperor Dasharatha. He studiously cleared his Rishi Runam by learning the literature gifted by rishis. He cleared his Deva Runam by appropriately performing Yagams regularly.But he was unable to clear his Pitru Runam because he did not have any kids. Since, he did not clear his debt, that meant he was not eligible for Heaven after death. Therefore, Emperor Dasharatha yearned for an issue. Finally, Emperor Dasharatha decided to perform Ashvamedha Yagam, so as to clear his papam(bad karma). In hinduism, every person enjoys comforts(sukham) due to the past account of punyam(good karma) and every person suffers misery(dukham) due to the past account of papam(bad karma). Therefore, Dasharatha decided that he was undergoing the misery of childlessness due to his past account of papam(sins). To clear these sins and to purify himself, he would conduct Ashvamedha Yagam. Once the sins are washed away, Emperor Dasharatha could become a father.
Emperor Dasharatha, on the advice of his sagacious minister Sumantra, invited the magnificent Rishi Shrunga to head the yagam. Rishi Shrunga was a great tapasvi.
Ashva Medha yagam is performed only by Emperors. It is an exceedingly complicated, gruelling, expensive and difficult yagam to perform. Once that yagam is commenced, it cannot be stopped in the midst. If the yagam comes to a stops unfinished then it leads to various calamaties befall, not just on the Emperor, but the whole Kingdom.
Thus, Ashvamedha Yagam was performed rarely. Rishi Shrunga was invited because he had immense tapo shakti(power gained by meditational penance). Rishi shrunga had devoted long years for tapasya(meditation) and had acquired extra-ordinary powers. Hence, his very presence would be auspicious to the yagam. His very presence would ensure the smooth conduct of the Yagam and eventual success of Yagam.

Emperor Dasharatha respectfully requested Rishi Shrunga for the permission to commence the Yagam. Rishi Shrunga gave the permission after setting an asupicious muhurtham. Then, the Emperor informed his teacher, Guru Vashishta, and puruhits(priests) about the commencement of Yagam and obtained favourable reply from them. Then a beautiful, strong and gracious horse(ashva) was unleashed a part of the process of the Yagam. This horse would traverse the entire empire into different kingdoms for a period of one year. The horse must not be stopped in its path by anyone. If it is stopped, then it is a challenge for war towards Emperor Dasharatha. Then, Emperor would have to defeat that opponent by using his army and get back his horse. So, the horse would be accompanied by a small battalion of army. For one year, this yagam horse would roam various kingdoms throwing a challenge to those kings. It is evident that only an almighty emperor who has subdued all his opponents can perform this yagam. While, the horse is traversing the length and breadth of the country, the royal couple i.e Emperor Dasharatha and his Queen Kaushalya should not enter yagya vatika(place for conducting yagya). Meanwhile many other vedic rituals, rites and events would go on for one year. Many visitors from various different countries all over the world would come to watch this majestic yagam. All of them would have to be dined(anna danam) for that one year.

Emperor Dasharatha was discussing the plans on how to care for his visitors. "We will have to employ lot of people for the smooth conduct of impending Yagam.,"he ordered his ministers. His ministers nodded gravely listening intently. He continued with his instructions, " So, employ experienced people. Employ those people who had already attended other yagams and vedic rituals before. Employ experts of vastu. Employ dharmic people. Employ good managers, event organisers, and accountants. Employ builders to build temporary housing for the visitors. Employ carpentors...employ actors and actresses who can entertain the masses and employ labourers to do many different chores. Employ those people who have knowledge shaastras(scriptures). Employ those who lead their life according to the dictates of shaastras(scriptures). We will have to dine all the visitors for one year till the yagam is being conducted. Different people from different backgrounds with different tastes would come and all of them have to be dined appropriately. People from both rural areas and urban areas will visit. We have to take care of them all."
Dasharatha's voice became even more grave and the ministers understood that his next instructions were vital, so they listened to his next instructions with utmost concentration and seriousness. The emperor continued with his orders," Be particularly careful and gentle towards the rural folk. Do not ever, look down upon the rural people. Infact, give them higher priority than the city folk. Rural folk might be timid and tentative in such gatherings, while the city folk will be confident. Also, generally, rurals are scoffed at, while the citizens are given a better treatment. So, you must arrange such a way that the rural folk are never given an impression that they are lesser than the citizens.
People from different castes and classes of society will come. So be alert, and let no misconduct happen towards any visitor of any caste or class. People from different castes or classes of the society would expect and need different service. This must be kept in mind while attending them. Employ only those people at the dining places as servers and managers, who do not succumb to anger and emotion. Take precautions so that flare ups do not happen. Then, various Kings, Princes and other royalties have to be invited along with their families and escorts. Some kings need to be invited by personally visiting them, some kings have to be invited through emissaries, some kings have to be invited by messangers...etc."

"Sumantra!" Dasharatha addressed particularly to one of his eldest and experienced ministers," You should personally go and invite Mithila's King Janaka. He is a repository of all shaastras(scriptures). He is an intellectual and yet is humble. He has immense respect for the Vedas. Similarly, go to Kashi King and invite him personally. He is my close friend and ally. Also, go and invite and King of Kaikeyi, my father-in-law, along with his sons. Similarly, invite King of Anga personally.
Invite the Kings of old kingdoms like Sindhu, Saurasthra and Saveera. Invite the Kings who rule the kingdoms of south. They are mighty and respectable." In this manner, Emperor Dasharatha gave many orders to his group of ministers to invite many kings from around the world.

As the time passed, the traffic of eager visitors kept increasing exponentially. Visitors from across the countries kept pouring into Ayodhya. People of all sections of society were among the visitors. Many mighty and powerful Kings attended the Yagam along with their large royal retinues. All the auspicious ingredients that were required in the yagam were fetched. All other preparations were made. No expense or effort was spared. Ayodhya was buzzing with activity. Finally, the glorious and the rare yagam commenced amidst the holy rishis. Many vedic programmes were being conducted simultaneously along side the Yagam for the one year.

Finally, after one year, the horse that was unleashed an year ago, returned along with the battalion that was send for its protection. The horse was not challenged by anyone wherever it trode signifying that the Emperor Dashratha's rule was accepted by one and all. He had no challengers.

The yagya vatika(altar for conducting Yagam) was built elaborately at the banks of holy river Sarayu. The altar was designed in the shape of Garuda(the vehicle of Lord Vishnu). Every vedic ritual was being conducted exactly as the shaastras(scriptures) had prescribed them without even the slightest miscalculation or mistake. The entire yagam was being supervised by the Guru Vasishtha. Finally, havisu(cow ghee to be poured in Yagam) was duly offered in to the holy flames accompanied by holy chantings of mantras by the rishis, so that Lord Indra was satiated.

After that, many people were dined. Lakhs and lakhs of Brahmanas dined. Lakhs and lakhs of servants dined. Lakhs and lakhs of of sanyasis dined. Lakhs and lakhs of citizens dined. Many old people dined, many women dined, and many children dined. Servers were well-attired and adorned with beautific ornaments like Mukut(headgear) and ear-rings made of gold. They were cultured, gentle, polite and friendly to all their guests.
From a distance, one could hear the following echos coming from these dining halls," please eat, please eat...do you want more rice....do you want sweet dish......you are not eating, eat more... give them silk clothes.... give them ornaments......etc". Only such words were heard, not one harsh word was heard in that place. All the people, who dined there, were extremely pleased with the delicious food, hospitality, magnificent service and politeness of servers. The service not only filled the stomachs of the visitors but also their hearts. With their hearts content and stomachs full, all those visitors gave ashirvaad(blessings) to the Dasharatha. Everyone was heard saying," This Emperor is wonderful. His hospitality is great. Let his wish be fullfilled. Let him beget wonderful kids. Let this kingdom have glorious successors who surpass their mighty ancestors in dharma and prowess."
A agni kunda(altar where holy fire is worshipped) was built in shape of Garuda(divine vehicle of Sri Maha Vishnu. Look at the left image) in the position of descending on the earth. It was built with golden bricks, so the altar looked like a real Garuda as the golden colour of the altar matched the golden colour of Garuda's wings.
Then, the wife of Dasharath, Empress Kaushalya, would be required to slay the yagam horse, that has traversed the entire earth for one year, with three daggers. The condition was that while Kaushalya slew the horse, she must control her emotions. She shall not give way to any malice or fear. She must participate in the whole thing with a pure heart and complete faith. The royal lady did exactly as prescribed exhibiting extra-ordinary patience. Then, that night the dead body of that horse would be laid down at a certain place. Empress would have to sleep that night along side that dead body. Again, she was required not get frustrated or fearful. She must be cheerful and pleasant the whole night. The gentle Empress Kaushalya did so. Then the next day, the horse's medha(brain) is removed and it is refined. Then it is offered into the holy fire accompanied by the sacred chantings of potent vedic mantras. At this time certain smoke rises from the holy fire, this smoke must be breathed in by Dasharatha. By breathing in this smoke, all the papams(sins) of Emperor Dasharatha would be removed and he would become purified. The papams(bad karmas) that were being the hindrance in his beggetting children, have now been eliminated. Then, Dasharatha would have to gift away his wives to ritwicks(priests who conduct yagam). Because the ritwicks do not accept wives, Emperor Dasharatha would have to offer wealth to receive his wives back. All this is prescribed as part of the yagam. Thus, it is evident that this yagam is extremely ardous and peculiar to perform. Not anyone can perform it. Only a mighty Emperor who has subdued both his external enemies and the internal enemies(Desire, Anger, Avarice, Delusion, Pride, Malice) can complete this amazing Yagam.

The mighty Emperor Dasharatha performed this holy Yagam and successfully completed the whole process. Once the yagam was finished, Emperor Dasharatha gifted away his entire Kingdom to four ritwicks who conducted the yagam. This rule was imposed by none other than Lord Brahma. After the Emperor gifted his vast kingdom to the ritwicks, they ritwicks said,"O, great one, what should we do with this vast empire? Only you are capable of ruling it. So, please take it back." Thus, those ritwicks returned the entire kingdom to the Emperor.
Dasharatha, then, gifted to each of those ritwicks ten lakh milch cows, ten crores of gold coins, and forty crores of silver coins. To those Brahmanas who had just come to watch the yagam, Dasharatha gifted one crore gold coins.

Then, the Emperor Dasharatha turned to Rishi Shrunga and respectfully said,"O venerable sire, you have guided this yagam to success and now my papam(sins) that was being hindrance to my father-hood is removed. Sire, now for the cause of begetting progeny, please head an appropriate ishti(a vedic ritual similar to yagam conducted after a yagam)."
The great tapasvi Rishi Shrunga then addressed the Emperor,"I am telling to you, Dasharatha that you will shortly father four majestic sons who will increase your kula's(race's) reputation. I have thought about it and decided that you should perform Putra-Kama-Ishti prescribed in shashtras."

Havisu is the cow ghee(and other items) that is poured into holy fire as part of yagam along with the chanting of holy mantras. This havisu is received by the devas(Gods). It is like their food. The havisu is divided among devas in a certain manner depending on their status. When a yagam is conducted, then all the devas come to receive their share of havisu. The Fire God(Agni) is the carrier of this food to the Gods. In the Kali Yuga(the present Epoch/Yuga), Devas are not visible to human eye. In Dwapara Yuga(the preceding Epoch/Yuga), the Devas(Gods) could be seen by some very righteous and holy people, but the general public was unable to view these divine beings. In Treta Yuga(the Epoch/Yuga in which Ramayan occured), Devas(Gods) were visible to most people. This difference is chiefly due to the diminishing taposhakti(spiritualy prowess gained by meditation/prayer/devotion of Lord) of mortals in various Epochs/Yugas. Sanatan Dharma tells us that dharma steadily declines in each Epoch/Yuga. The first Epoch/Yuga is Krita Yuga, followed by Treta Yuga, followed by Dwapara Yuga and ending with Kali Yuga. So, the Dharma is shining brightly in Krita Yuga and it steadily declines with each Yuga thereafter with Kali Yuga(the last Epoch) being a dark age. With increase in dharma, people gain punya(positive karma) and thus gain spiritual energy. With increase in adharma(antonym of dharma), people lose their spiritual energy.

Thus, in Treta Yuga people had enough spiritual energy to witness the divine beings with their naked eyes while the same is not possible for the mortals living in Kali Yuga( the present Epoch that we live in). Therefore, when Emperor Dasharatha commenced the Putra-Kama-Ishti, all the Devas, Gandharvas, Siddhas, ...etc along with Lord Brahma descended on the Yagya Vatika(altar of holy fire), to receive the havisu. All the Devas(Gods) were seated and Lord Brahma was also seated. The Devas were waiting to be called to receive the havisu.

Devas on seeing the Lord Brahma, the creator, started complaining to him about their problems. The first to complaint was the head of Devas(Gods), Lord Indra, himself," O Bhagwan, a Rakshasa(demon) named Ravana after receiving boons from you, has started troubling and torturing everyone in the universe. He has not left anyone in peace. He is torturing Rishis, Yakshas, Gandharva and even weak Brahmanas. Not even Devas are able to stop him. Even I, the Lord of all Devas, am unable to withstand him thanks to the boons you granted him. He has even started ordering the nature. He has become the master of the nature. Surya(sun), Marut(wind), Varuna(rain),and even Samudra(sea) are being commanded by him according to his wishes. He has conquered the Heaven and has enslaved all the Devas(Gods). I have lost my peace of mind because I am always in his fear."
As soon as, Indra started, all the other Devas(Gods) also joined in. Vayu(Wind God) started with his list of problems,"O venerable creator of universe, I am extremely pained by this terrible demon Ravana. I, now, carry out all my tasks according to the whims of that demon. I am fine with even that, but the whims of these demons are illogical and defy my natural traits. They drink and dine to the full capacity of their bellies but still want me to pass through them gently, helping their digestion and respiration. This demon Ravana, wants gentle breeze near his beaches. He closes all the doors and windows of his palatial rooms and then wants a gentle breeze.
Once, this wretched demon wanted to capture the mighty monkey Vali from behind without his knowledge. But somehow, Vali found out that this wretch was coming from behind and captured him under his armpits. This ten-headed demon could not free himself from the clutches of Vali for a long time. During this time, he felt breathless. Later, after Vali freed his grip, Ravana made alliance with him. Then, he came to me and beat me up. Why, you ask? Because he felt breathless... You see, sire , my pathetic condition?"
Vayu(Wind God) was interrupted by Agni(Fire God) who had his tale of woe to tell. Agni started narrating," Lord Brahma listen to my predicament as well. The demonic Ravana wished me to serve in his royal kitchen. But the twist is that he wont offer any fuel. No woods either. I just have to burn and cook by myself. How is that possible, I ask? But he doesnt listen..."
Before Vayu(Wind God) could finish, Yama(God of Death) started addressing the Lord Brahma," O great Sire, my situation is so tragic that it is comic. I am supposed to be the Lord of Death for all the mortals. But this vile demon has become a Lord of Death for me. I am supposed to be the controller of all the mortals but this Ravana is controlling me..."

On listening to all their woes, Lord Brahma nodded his head. Then, Lord Brahma consoled them with these soothing words,"Yes, sons, I know, he is torturing everyone. I know your predicament. I know He has not left alone anyone. He is troubling Devas, Gandharvas, Kimpurushas, Nagas, Siddhas and Yakshas. Ravana had performed a great tapa(meditative penance), so I had to give him a boon. You know that anyone, regardless of his other traits, is eligible for a boon if he performs a tapa. So, I granted him the boon that he asked. But, do not worry, there is a way out.
That day, when I manifested before him pleased with his tapasya, Ravana had asked a boon for deathlessness. Naturally, I rejected that wish and reminded him that every thing that is born must, one day, die. Everything that is created must, some day, be destroyed. This is the natural course. Then, he asked me for another boon. He requested me to grant him deathlessness in the hands of Devas, Gandharvas, Siddhas, Kimpurushas, Kinneras, Nagas, and Asuras(demons). Hence, he is unconquerable for those races. But, he did not mention naras(men) and vanaras(half-men/monkeys/bears). He did not forget them. He did not mention them because of deep contempt towards those races. He underestimates their prowess and strength. So, a human can kill Ravana."

Suddenly at that time, Sri Maha Vishnu manifested at that Yagya Vatika(altar of holy fire). Sri Maha Vishnu was holding a divine counch(shanka) and disc(chakra) in his two of his four hands. On seeing Lord Vishnu, everyone rised and started praying to Sri Maha Vishnu. Then Devas requested Sri Maha Vishnu in a unison thus," Bhagwan, you are a great one. You have always saved us when we were in any trouble in the past. Today, we again seek your refuge. We are being tormented and we need you grace. Please take a birth in the human race to vanquish the demon named Ravana. This Emperor Dasharatha is a dharmic emperor, his wives are well natured, dutyful and mild mannered. Pleae, take an avatar as a man by taking birth as a son to Dasharatha and his queens. Please bless us and help us..."

Before we go further, I will have to mention one thing. Sri Maha Vishnu will not just slay Ravana because Devas requested him to do so. In Bhagavatham, Lord Vishnu has laid out conditions on which he eliminates someone. Death punishment is not given for small mistakes. It is reserved for the most heinious and unrepentant ones. In Bhagavatham, Lord Vishnu says,"When someone starts troubling/misbehaving/torturing/criticizing with sudha sadhu(those who harm no one and are living by complete belief in Lord), Devas, Vipras(those who study the Vedas and are living as the Vedas have prescribed), cows, Vedas and finally me, then once all the threshold of decency and morals is crossed, I will slay that person." Also, when Lord Vishnu slays, he does not do so out of anger or enemity. He slays in the same way a surgeon removes a rotten part that threatens to harm the rest of the body. Similarly, Lord Vishnu like a cosmic healer removes the sinner so that rest of the universe can be saved. Also, it saves the soul of the sinner by stopping from committing further sins. So, when Lord Vishnu slays, it is out of love, mercy and kindness but never out of anger or enemity.

So, now Sri Maha Vishnu replied to Devas' request, "I will slay that demon Ravana because he is frightening and torturing everyone without reason. I will slay Ravana along with his sons, brothers, army, relatives, friends and allies. Then, I will live and rule this earth for 11000 years as a human king and establish the dharma throughout. I will prove that humans are not as weak as the arrogant Ravana assumes. I will live a perfect human's life to establish an ideal for the human race to live by. I will be born as the son of punyatma Dasharatha."

Hearing it, the Devas were delighted. To show their gratitude, they requested thus," O Bhagwan, once you have killed that Ravana along with his supporters, please visit our abode, Heaven. We wish to be your hosts to show our gratitude." Lord Vishnu, the ocean of mercy, agreed to the request of Devas.

Thus, there were two primary objectives of Rama avatar: One was to slay the adharmic Ravana once he crossed a karmic threshold by committing the sins mentioned in the paragraph before. Second objective was to live the life like a human being in a perfect manner so as to prove that a human being is not weak and is capable of achieving great things in life without going deviating from the path of Dharma. Rama went to forest and bore many many sorrows through out his avatar, with the sole motive of establishing an ideal of human beings to live by. Otherwise, if the only objective was to slay the Ravana, then it could have been done very quickly without much ado by Lord Vishnu.

Then, Emperor Dasharatha commenced his Putra-Kama-Ishti and offered the holy havisu to all the Devas by pouring it into consecrated flames. As soon as the Putra-Kama-Ishti was completed, suddenly, a great figure appeared in the fire(agni). It was huge like a mountain. It was a male figure. He was red in colour. He was dressed in red and black dress. His face was glowing brightly like a heated metal. He had a huge moustache. He had vast eyes. He was holding a golden bowl which was covered with a silver plate. He emerged out of the fire. Everyone in that assembly was astonished and spellbound. They all watched him with wide eyes. When he spoke, his voice echoed like a drum across the great Yagya Vatika. He addressed Dasharatha," This holy Payasam(a sweet dish) is created by Devatas(gods). It is the fruit of your Yagam. Receive it, you will soon be a father. Fortune and prosperity will be yours. Give this Payasam to your favourite queens and you will beget kids shortly."

Emperor Dasharatha was extremely happy to hear that news. Then, he prayfully circumabulated that figure, and reverentially received the holy payasam. The great figure vanished suddenly into thin air. His exit surprised everyone just like his enterance had surprised. Emperor Dasharatha then called his three favourite wives: Kaushalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi. Kaushalya was the eldest wife. Sumitra was the second wife and Kaikeyi was the last wife and also the youngest. Dasharatha had many wives, but he called these three wives. Then, h halved the payasam and gave it to his eldest queen Kaushalya. Kaushalya received it, and consumed it. Then he halved the remaining half of Payasam and gave it to his another queen Sumitra. She also consumed it. Then, Dasharatha halved the remaining part again and gave one part to Sumitra and gave the rest to another queen Kaikeyi. Both of them, ate their share. All the queens were very happy that they would soon become mothers. Dasharatha was also delighted. People of Khosala were happy.

Meanwhile, Lord Brahma called all the Devas to his lokam(world) and instructed," Lord Vishnu will be born in a human race by the name of Rama to slay the demon Ravana. But along with Ravana, several other rakshas(demons) and asuras have to be eliminated to establish the Dharma. To aid this mighty task, Rama would require companions. So, you all have to create beings, who possess your powers, in vanara(half-human) race to support Ramachandra. I have already created a vanara named Jambavantha earlier. You all also do the same."

There are two kinds of Vanaras. One type is bears and another is monkeys. By the orders of Lord Brahma, all the Devas(Gods) created various Vanaras. A Vanara named Vali was born with Indra's powers. A Vanara named Sugreeva was born with Surya(sun)'s powers. Tara was born with Brihaspathi's powers. Gandhamadana was born with Kubera's powers. Nala was born was born with Vishwakarma's powers. Neela was born with powers of Agni. Mainda and Divida were born with powers of Ashwini devas. Sushena was born with powers of Varuna. Sharaba was born with powers of Parjanya. The mighty Hanuman was born with powers of Vayu. These Vanaras possessed the powers of Devas(Gods) who created them. For example, Vishwakarma is a divine engineer/architect who builds cities for Devas. Nala who is born with his powers has received his building skills and later builds the famous Ramasethu in Ramayana. Similarly, Brihaspathi is the celestial of Guru of Devas(Gods). Tara, Brihaspathi's son, is seen enacting the role of guide to Vanaras. Varuna(Water God) is the Lord of medicines. Sushena, Varuna's son, is also a healer/doctor. Of all these Vanaras, Hanuman(picture to the right) was most mighty of all. He is also the first among the devotees of Lord Rama. The great Hanuman possessed extra-ordinary intellect and exceptional strength. He was born with powers of Vayu. He also has a rudra amsha(a part of Rudra).

In this manner, many crores of Vanaras were created by Devas(Gods). All these Vanaras were endowed with great physical might, courage and beauty. These Vanaras had the capacity to play with huge mountains. They could jump more than 100 yojanas(1yojana is about 5-9miles). They could jump and touch the clouds with their hands. They could spar with grand elephants in forests. They could wrestle with the ferocious beasts of the jungle and kill them. They had the power to uproot huge trees. They used their nails, teeth, elbows, knees and hands as weapons to kill their opponents in a fight. They knew the use of all the astras(weapons with mantras) and shastras(weapons). They could move on earth, air and water.

Meanwhile, in Ayodhya, Emperor Dasharatha who had divided the divine payasam and distributed it to his queens was waiting eagerly for the birth of his kids. Yagam was completed and Dasharatha returned to his palace. All the visitors who wore the dresses gifted by Dasharatha went back to their native places pleased with the hospitality of the Emperor. Never had they seen such a grand Yagam and such hospitality. All of them, only had praises for Dasharatha.

One year passed after the Yagam. Then, in Chaitra(an indian month) month on the navami(ninth), at Karkataka lagnam Punarvasu nakshatram(an indian astronomical time) when five astronomical planets like Kuja, Chandra, Surya..etc were at their high point(supposedly an auspicious time according to Jyotishya/astronomy), Sri Maha Vishnu himself, who is worshipped by the whole universe, was born to the blessed Queen Kaushalya as the eldest son of the mighty Emperor Dasharatha. At his birth, all the Devas(Gods) rejoiced and made auspicious sounds to convey their happiness. Both the mother Kaushalya and her son were glowing with a divine splendour.

Sri Rama Jai Rama Jai Jai Rama Rama.
Sri Rama Jai Rama Jai Jai Rama Rama.
Sri Rama Jai Rama Jai Jai Rama Rama.

Then, Queen Kaikeyi gave birth to a son who would be later named Bharatha. Later, two sons were born to Sumitra. Thus Rama was born first, then Bharata, then Lakshmana and lastly Shatrughna. Emperor Dasharatha had become a proud father of four young princes. His face was adorned with a grand smile. His heart was leaping with joy. The royal retinue, ministers, guards, servants, maids,...everyone was filled with happiness. Devas(Gods) in the Heaven were joyously celebrating the birth of Lord Vishnu. They showered flowers from the skies on this auspicious occassion. Apsaras(divine dancers) gyrated to the divine music. Divine drums were blarring from the skies. Everyone in the Kingdom of Khosala was happy and overjoyed. People of Khosala were celebrating as if a child was born in their own homes. The streets were filled with festivities. Even the visitors and tourists joined in. Dancers danced, actors entertained, and singers sang. There were celebrations at every nook and corner of the kingdom. The new father Dasharatha donated and gifted away many crores of milch cows and vast riches to the needy and deserving.

Eleven days after the birth of the babies, Dasharatha requested the kula guru(teacher of family) and purohith(priest) Vashishta Maharshi to bestow suitable names on the newborns. Vashishta Maharshi named the eldest son as Rama. Jai Sri Ram.

The Maharshi gave the name Rama so that it is easily pronouncable to all and sundry. The name had the power to take away the troubles of the people. Rama is made of two beeja(seed) aksharas(alphabets): Ra and Ma. One is agni(fire) beeja akshara and the other is amrutha beeja akshara. One beeja aksharam is from Ashtakshari maha mantram : Om Namo Bhagvate Vasudevaya(Vishnu mantram) and one beeja askharam is from Panchakshri maha mantram: Om Namah Shivaya(Shiva mantram). This name thus derives great power which can give immediate relief to anyone who utters it. Vashishta Maharshi took great care so that the name is easy for everyone to pronounce it. Thus the name Rama came into existance. After naming the son of Kaushalya as Rama, Vasishta then named the eldest son of Sumitra as Lakshmana. He named the son of Kaikeyi as Bharata. And the youngest child of Sumitra and Dasharatha was named Shatrughna.

जय श्री राम !
( Jai Sri Ram )

To be Contd...(Next Episode is Introduction of Vishwamitra and killing of Tataka)

Ramayana Story Contd : Begining of the Epic Ramayana

2010-08-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

जय श्री राम !
( Jai Sri Ram )

Devarshi Narada had come to visit Rishi Valmiki in his Ashram. Rishi Valmiki who was a tapasvi asked Narada who was also a tapasvi a question that is rarely asked. Rishi Valmiki wanted know whether there existed any person who possessed 16qualities. Devarshi Narada replied that such a person existed and told that he was bornn in Ikshavaku Kula(dynasty) and his name was Rama who ruled the Kingdom Khosala with its capital as Ayodhya. Then Bhagwan Narada(Narada is equal to god because he is always in Brahmi state. So Narada is being referred as Bhagwan which means god.) went onto narrate the additional qualities of Sri Rama. He later told the story of Sri Rama in brief manner. This is called as Sankshepa Ramayana. It is said to possess many great powers and is called a mala mantram. Valmiki was delighted on listening to it. Note that Sitadevi was at that time residing in Valmiki's ashram along with her two sons Kusha and Lava.

After telling the story, Narada left to heaven. But Valmiki could not forget the story and his heart was filled with Sankshepa Ramayana. It was noon time. Valmiki called one of his favourite disciples named Bharadwaja and said, " Lets us go to tamasa river for sandhya vandana.". Sandhya Vandana is a ritual that is practised in the pradosha time. Pradosha time means dawn(about 4:00 A.M- 6:00 A.M) and dusk(4-6). Tapasvis or religiously oriented do it at noon time as well. In Tretha Yuga, people used to be religious, so generally people performed Sandhya Vandana in noon time as well in Tretha Yuga. Sandhya vandana means praying to sun with gayatri mantra with water. It is ideally done at a river or a flowing water body. So, at noon time Valmiki left to tamasa river which was near his ashram along with one of his disciples who carried fresh clothes for his guru(teacher). Once they reached the river, Valmiki said,"Bharadwaja, look at this beautiful river whose water are so clean just like a good man's heart." The smiley used by Rishi Valmiki here "like good man's heart" shows us that his heart is still influenced by the Ramayana story he heard from Narada. Valmiki had just listened to a story of a great man, a good man(named Rama). This shows us how attentively Valmiki had listened to Narada and now his heart is still full of that story. Valmiki said that and was happy seeing the beautiful waters. He was enjoying watching the nature. He was in a blissful state of mind. He entered the waters and did his sandhya vandana and wore the fresh clothes brought by his disciple. His heart was still over-joyed. He happily looked at his sorroundings. He saw a pair of Krouncha birds. One male and the other female. They were fearlessly and happily playing with each other. The rishi saw them both and it made him more happier. But suddenly the male krouncha bird was hit by an arrow released by a hunter. The male bird was instantly killed and the female bird started crying in a very moving voice. This scene made the rishi very angry. He cursed the hunter in the following manner:

maa nishhaada pratiSThaamtva | magamaH shaashvatiiH samaaH |
yat krau~Ncha mithunaat eka | mavadhiiH kaama mohitam ||
This means, "Oh hunter, you have killed a male bird when it was involved in a lustful play with its wife, your deed will be remembered by the world(for its cruelty)."

It is said that Ramayana is born in this shloka. This shloka was meant by Valmiki to be a curse. But it can be interpretted in so many ways. One more meaning to this verse is, " O man(Vishnu), you killed the male(Ravana) who was living his life only through his kama(desire) leaving aside dharma. This has caused grief to female(mandodari, Ravana's wife). Your deed will be remembered by the world(for its greatness)."

Another ways of interpretting it makes this verse give the entire story of Ramayana briefly. It is said that this verse briefly summarises all the 7 Khandas(units) of Ramayana. This is a very celebrated verse and is said to be the begining of Ramayana. So this was the begining of the great Ramayana.

Rishi Valmiki returned to his ashram but could not forget the verse that he meant to be a curse. He thought," This verse has great qualities, it is poetic, music can be composed to it, it can be played on musical instruments.How can such qualities be present in a shloka that is meant only as a curse?" At moment, Brahma came to visit Valmiki in his divine vehicle. (Narada is son to Brahma. Brahma created Narada by mere thought, so he is Brahma's son.) First Narada came and tested Valmiki by telling him the story. After seeing how much the story had made a mark on the Valmiki's heart and seeing the soft heartedness of Valmiki(because he could not even tolerate the death and sorrow of a bird), Brahma himself came to visit Valmiki. Brahma ordered Valmiki to write Ramayana. Now, here we may get a doubt: Valmiki did not know the Ramayana before, so he asked Narada. Narada told him the story,but if Valmiki writes the story told by Narada only, then the real author would be Narada not Valmiki. But Valmiki is the author, how?
Because Brahma ordered Valmiki to write the Ramayana and along with it gave a boon to him to be able to see into the past, present and future and also read the thoughts of the people involved in the story. So, Valmiki wrote the story by seeing it directly and also he knew the minds of all the people involved according to elders. Therefore, Valmiki Ramaynam alone is considered to be authentic. Valmiki Ramayanam is called ithihasam. Ithihasam means " it happened like this".

So, now Rishi Valmiki started the Ramayana and finished it. It contained twenty-four thousand verses. Valmiki then thought who could really recite this wonderful poetic story. He found that the most suitable disciples were none other than Sitadevi's(and Sri Rama's) sons Kusha and Lava who were living incidentally in his ashram at that time along with their mother. So, Valmiki taught this Ramayana to Kusha and Lava so that they could spread this great story because it contained the essence of dharma and the story of purshottam(best among men). Rishi Valmiki declared that he had given three names to this story:

-Sitayaha Charitam Mahat. (Sita's character/story is great)
-Ramayanam.( Rama's ayanam meaning Rama's journey/story. It can also be interpretted as Ramaa's ayanam meaning Ramaa's journey/story. Ramaa means sitadevi. So, Ramayanam means Rama's journey of life or Sita's journey of life)
-Poulatsya Vadha(death of Poulatsya. Poulatsaya is one is born in the vamsha(dynsaty) of Poulomi. Poulatsya here refers to Ravana. So, it means story of Ravana's death.)

Now, this story was learned by Kusha and Lava. Kusha and Lava started spreading it by singing it in main cities where people gather. Once, it so happened that Sri Rama himself saw these two kids singing Ramayna and was impressed. Rama had not seen his sons before, therefore did not recognise them. Rama was impressed by the ramayana being sung by Kusha and Lava and invited them to sing it in palace. They went to palace and started singing it:

Once upon a time there was a huge Kingdom named Khosala, whose capital Ayodhya was situated at the banks of the river Sarayu. It was built by Manu who was born in Ikshavaku. It had lot of big roads and small roads which were well decorated and kept cool by spraying waters. It had great forts and ditches to protect the forts. Many great warriors were stationed in these forts. Ayodhya was filled with foreigners who came to do business, tourists sprawled at this city and many kings came to pay tax to the emperor. The kingdom was ruled by Emperor Dasharatha. The people of the city were well versed in warfare but they had some rules of fighting. They never killed those who did not have parents or children. They never killed those who begged for forgiveness or those who were running away from battle. They hunted down animals in all ways possible. The Emperor ruling the kingdom was Dasharatha, he was rajarshi of the standard of Maharshi. He was a great warrior. He had done a lot of great yagams. He had gained influence over intellectuals by giving them great gifts. He had collected lots of riches and other articles of attraction. He followed dharma. He had great wisdom and was able to calculate the future events with his sharp intellect. He had subdued his enemies. He had a lot of friends who were powerful. He had gained control over his senses. His rule was dharmic.

In that city of Ayodhya, not even one person was atheist, not even one person was not an intellectual, not even one person was lobhi(One who desires everything that he lays eyes on), not even one person was only kami(one who is guided by only his desires). Everyone in that city had a clean heart. Not one person was present in that city who did not wear a mukut(a headgear made of gold and other expensive jewels), not one person was present in that city who did not wear ear-jewelry(men also), not one person was present in that city who had less-luxuries, not one person was present who did not wear expensive necklaces,clothes and lockets. That means everyone was rich and were having extra-ordinary luxuries. Also everyone was dharmic. Such a great rule was possible because of good ministers of Dhasharatha. He had 8 ministers. He had Vashishta and Vamadeva as his purohiths(religious scholars). Vashishta was also guru(teacher) of Ikshvaku Kings including Dasharatha. Those eight ministers were knowlegable and unbiased. They were rich and had control over their senses. They administered in a very transparent manner. They were well-skilled, and respected their teachers and parents. They ignored the bad qualities of their teachers and parents but followed their good qualities.
Thus, the kingdom was being administered in a perfect way. But there was one sorrow for Dhashratha, he had no kids. He thought that he had no kids because of some papam(bad karma) of past. So, he decided to perform ashvamedha yagam to remove his papam. He ordered his servants to call purohiths. Vashishta, Vamadeva..etc purohits came and met Dasharatha. Dasharatha told them about his wish to his teacher Vashishta and other purohiths. They all were pleased and gave him their blessings. Dasharatha ordered his servants to build yagya vatika(stage) at the banks of Sarayu River. Ashavamedha yagam is a very difficult yagam to perform, thats why not many kings perform it. Then Dasharatha went to antahpuram(palace of queens) and told his queens about his decision to perform Ashvamedha Yagam to remove his papam, so that they could beget kids. The queens were very pleased.

One of the ministers named Sumantra came to antahpuram and told Dasharatha that he wanted to talk to him. Dasharatha seated him and allowed him to talk. Sumantra told that there was a great person named Rishi Shrunga who could head the Yagam. Sumantra advised Dashratha to go himself to invite Rishi Shrunga. Dasharatha did as advised and went himself to invite to Rishi Shrunga to the Ashvamedha Yagam. Dasharatha prayed to Rishi Shrunga to head the yagam. Rishi Shrunga agreed to head the yagam. Rishi Shrunga along with his wife Shanta came to Ayodhya. All the women of antahpuram came to welcome Shanta. Rishi Shrunga and Shanta entered antahpuram.
Today, the place where Rishi Shrunga had performed tapasya(meditation), is called shringeri. Jagadguru Shankaracharya has established a peetam in Shringeri.

जय श्री राम !
( Jai Sri Ram )

To be Contd...(the next episode is the birth of Sri Rama)

Sri Ramayana Part 1: Unique Question of Rishi Valmiki to Deva-Rishi Narada

2010-03-25T15:30:00.000-07:00

जय श्री राम !
( Jai Sri Ram )

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Sri Ramayana(Bala Kaanda) Part 1:

Unique Question of Rishi Valmiki to Deva-Rishi Narada

Ok guys, I am starting the magnificent story of the great ancient Indian epic named Srimadh Ramayana. Before I start, let me request that if there are any inaccuracies in the story, please feel free to correct me. I will try and narrate the story to the best of my abilities and knowledge. Of course, no one can ever claim to know Ramayana exchaustively. It is such a mine of knowledge that everytime one reads it, one learns something new and fantastic. So, I'll try to write what I have understood.

Why write it?
It is a valid question. There are several others who have written on Ramayana, and there are several more who are writing on it. So, why should I write on the same subject?
'Kavi Samrat' Vishvanatha Satyanarayana wrote 'Ramayana Kalpavriksham' in Telugu. He raised the same question and answered it thus:
"Why am I eating, when everyone else is eating? Because, I have my own palate to satisfy.
Why do I marry and have a marital life, when everyone else is doing the same? Because, I want to have my own experience.
Why do I write Ramayana, when several others have already done it? Because, I want to express my own devotion of Lord Rama in my own words."

Tyagaraja Swamy said," Great Rishis like Valmiki (and others ) have composed eulogies on You(Rama), but does it satisfy my desire(to praise you)? "

So, my answer is same. Many have written on Ramayana and many more will write. It is a most wonderful and captivating story. I would like to share what I have understood.

Srimad Ramayana is not just a time-pass story to be casually read. It is considered a divine sport of the Lord in human incarnation. It is ardently worshiped daily by innumerable saints, sages and devotees in India and elsewhere. They vouch that this stupendous epic has provided them with proper guidance, inspiration, and divine blessings whenever and wherever they were in need of it. I just mentioned about Telugu Poem named 'Ramayana Kalpavriksham'. According to Hinduism, 'Kalpavriksham' is a wish-fulfilling heavenly tree. That tree fulfills any wish of those that are in its vicinity. This tree is found in Swarga (heaven). It originated during the great churning of ocean of milk. Ramayana has been called a Kalpavriksham i.e. Ramayana, also, is wish-fulfilling just like Kalpavriksham.

Srimad Ramayana was composed by the great sage Valmiki in Sanskrit language. One can understand this wonderful epic at several levels. The first level/layer of the epic is the story of Lord Rama, the challenges of life faced by Rama and Sita in a valiant and gracious manner. There are several other layers which enunciate the ancient secrets of practical subjects like Business Management(or Management of any organisation from a great state to a small venture ), War Strategies, Spying Techniques, Political Tactics, Diplomatic ambassadors & their roles, Human Welfare & Development, Personality Development, Motivational Talks, Communication Skills, Anger Management, Time Management, Personal Relations & Managing relations with friends/family ( which includes techniques on how to win friends and influence people), Managing marital life, ...etc. These subjects are of interest to modern audience especially youngsters.

Then, there are other layers/levels interwoven in Ramayana that deal with subjects like Dharma Shastra(treatise of justice and righteousness), Ayurveda Shastra(Ayurveda is an Indian medicinal science), Vastu Shaastra (Vastu Shaastra is an Indian architectural science), Mantra Shastra, Yoga Shastra(Yoga is a form of meditative excercise invented in India), Shilpa Shaastra(Idol-making), Natya Shaastra(Dance), Tantra Shastra, Yantra Shastra, Guidelines of Worship, Secrets of Siddhi, Procedures of Kundalini Vidya, Sri Vidya, ....etc. These are more advanced subjects that will be of interest to those who are interested or working in that particular field. Of course, these subjects are useful to everyone.

All these topics are couched in a fantastic and fascinating story making it both superbly entertaining and immensely enlightening(in philosophical and practical ways).Thus, the story has different layers dealing with different subjects some of which are classified. It is the main reason why Ramayana continues to be popular and relevant through out ages, among people of diverse temperaments and mindsets. A literature of a particular time and place is, generally, not relevant or popular in another time and place. A work that is generally targeted at one set of audience, does not find favor with others. Ramayana has conquered these limitations and boundaries. It is wildly sought-after and utterly fascinating to one and all. From times immemorial, generation after generation has continued to read, regard and revere the Ramayana. Lets dive into such marvelous story.

I will mostly stick to the essential story of Lord Rama.

Ramayana Story:

The story starts in the ashram of Valmiki(see following picture). The ashrams are generally places where rishis live. These ashrams are at a distance from cities or villages because the rishis like to live in peace and do not want to be disturbed by people. One day devarshi(divine rishi) Narada came to Valmiki. Narada is tapasvi and vadvidamvaram. Tapasvi is a person who does certain kind of vratas.

They eat 16 nivalas(gulps of rice) per day on full moon day, from there they decrease one nivala everyday till the new moon day. From there they increase one nivala every day till full moon day. Also, they spend their time in meditation(dhyanam). Their goal is to become one with brahman(the supreme god). They continously make dhyan on the brahman. Devarshi Narad was that kind of tapasvi. He was one with brahman. He had the knowlege of past, present and future. He was always blissful because he knew the true nature of this world and universe and because he was one with the supreme brahman. Narada was also vagvidamvaram. Which means that his words were always truthful. If he said something it would become true.

That Narada came to meet Valmiki. Valmiki was also a tapsavi. He also had vrats and regularly meditated. Before I continue, one more thing, the time when Narada came to meet Valmiki, Sitadevi was living in Valmiki's ashram. That means Sitadevi had already gone to Lanka, comeback, and then Rama sent her to forest, where Valmiki found her and gave refuge in his ashram along with his numerous disciples and their wives. So, in short, the Ramayanam had already happened, infact it was at its fagend. Now, Devarsi Narada who was a tapasvi and vagvidamvaram had come to meet tapasvi and rishi Valmiki.

When Narada(a pictorial depiction to left) came Valmiki prayed to him, welcomed him and asked him a question. This question is the root for the birth of the epic named ramayana. This question gave birth to the great indian epic which was written millenias before yet is popular even today. What is this question?

The rishi valmiki asked:

Is there any person in my lifetime who has following 16 qualities?
gunah, viryam, dharma, krutagnasya, drudvrata, satyavakya, Charitra, Vidvaan, sarvabutah hitah, samartah, priya darshanah, aatmavaan, jitakrodho, dhyutimaan, anasuyukah, kasya bibyati devah ca jyata rosaya myuge,

1) gunah = good qualities,
2) viryam = courage, one who does not get shaken in his heart but is able to accomplish even very hard tasks,
3) krutagnasya = one who remembers the help given to him by others
4) drudvrata = firm resolved
5) satyavrata = one who speaks only truth and nothing else
6) charitra = character
7) Charitra = character, conduct,
8) Vidvaan = knowlegable, wise,
9) sarvabutah hitah = one who wishes the best for every butah(living thing).
10) samartah = one is abled, one who can achieve any given task,
11) priya darshanah = handsome always in all attires at all times,
12) aatmavan = one who has mastered his aatma,
13) itakrodho = one who has mastered his anger,
14) dhyutiman = one who has great shine,
15) anasuyakah = one without jealousy,
16) kasya bibyati devah ca jyata rosaya myuge = even gods will tremble when he gets angry.

(note the difference between controlling and mastering. Mastering anger is different from controlling anger. We can control anger in certain situations but can lose its control sometimes. But once you master you something, its always in your control. Mastering anger means understanding the trigger for anger and why it erupts. Thus one gets to a situation where he does not get angry. There could be a doubt quality 13 and quality 16 are possible simulaneously. Rama does not get angry, he has mastered it, but he uses anger as a tool to get his work done when required. He expresses anger to get a work done. He does not get into the grip of anger like us.)

This was the question asked by rishi Valmiki. He asked," is there any person with these 16 qualities. If there is such a person, please tell me who he is. And I want to know about a person who is alive not some historical figure." 16 qualities are generally possessed by moon in hindu literature. Thats is the reason Sri Rama is also called Ramachandra. So, now Valmiki has asked the question . This is the scene of epic Ramayana's birth. Then the devarshi Narada replied as follows, "You have asked a rare question and people with such qualities do not ordinarily exist(that means the one with all such qualities is an extra-ordinary person).Yes, Valmiki, such a person exists. He belongs to Ikshavaku kula(dynasty), he is the son of King Dasharatha, people call him Rama. He has all the qualities you mentioned and along with it he is a vasi(one who has mastered his senses). He has great willpower and great physical power. He knows all sciences. He has great riches. He has strong shoulders and high cheeks. He knows use of all weapons. He can control enemies. He knows all vedas. He is equal to Sri Maha Vishnu. He protects all the beings and dharma. He can protect the entire world. He protects his own dharma. He protects people who depend on him for protection. He is extremely handsome and pleasing to those who see him. He is satyaparakram(truth is his strength)." Then Devarshi Narada tells the entire Ramayana to rishi Valmiki in a brief manner. The Ramayana told by Narada to Valmiki is called Sankshep Ramayana. It is about 100 shlokas. It is called a mala mantram. It is supposed to have great powers to those who pray through it.

Bramarshi Narada narrated the entire Ramayana very briefly,"The mighty Emperor Dasharatha, who ruled the kingdom of Khosala with its capital city Ayodhya, was childless. So, he performed the rare Ashvamedha Yagam( a type of yagam) to wash away his papam(bad karma or sins). When he successfully performed the yagam, he received a prasadam( a food item consecrated with the blessing of god). He distributed it to his three wives. Then, Rama was born as the eldest son to his first wife Kaushalya. After due course of time, Rama was married to Sita, daughter of King Janaka of Mithila Kingdom.

Later, Emperor Dasharatha desired to annoint Rama as the Emperor of Khosala to look after welfare of the people because people also wanted to see prince Rama as their ruler. But, the dear wife of Dasharatha, Kaikeyi, claimed the boons from Dasharatha. According to these boons, Emperor Dasharatha must banish Rama to Dandaka forests and annoint Bharata(second son of Dasharata and only son of Kaikeyi) as the Emperor of Khosala. To honour the promise given by his father to Kaikeyi, Sri Rama went to Dandaka forest. Younger brother of Rama named Lakshmana also followed his brother out of brotherly love and affection. Sri Rama's wife Sita who was most the beautiful lady, also accompanied her husband. All the people of Ayodhya were immersed in sorrow when this happened. The trio of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana entered the terrible forests, they crossed great rivers and visted many sages and hermits on their way. Finally, they settled at Chitrakuta. Bharata, son of Kaikeyi, returned from his uncle's house and came to know about the promise that his mother Kaikeyi derived from his father. He also came to know about the banishment of his brother and consquently the death of his father. Bharata was plunged into an endless sea of sorrow. He immediately went to Chitrakuta along with all the royal gurus(teachers), citizens of Ayodhya and the vast army to persuade Rama to return to Ayodhya and take the throne back since their father, who had given the promise, was no more. Rama did not agree to this adharma and declared that he would spend fourteen years in forests as his father had promised to Kaikeyi . After failing to convince Rama, Bharata, took the Padukas(foot wear) of Rama and ruled the Khosala as Rama's agent and Rama's padukas as royal emblem. Later, Rama left Chitrakuta because it reminded him of his people who had visited him recently. He left chitrakuta and entered the scary Dandaka forest and resided there. Once, a rakshasi(demoness) named Shurpanaka saw Rama. She got attracted to him and lustfully approached him. But Rama cut her nose and ears. Kara and Dhushana(two demons) attacked Rama with a force of 14000 demons, when Shurpanaka complained to them. Rama destroyed the entire 14000 demons within a few minutes. Shurpanaka witnessed this slaughter and informed her brother Ravana. Ravana abducted Sita and imprisoned her in Lanka. Rama befriended Sugreeva(vanara, a monkey clan that has human like qualities) and killed Sugreeva's brother Vali. Then, Rama sent search squads of vanaras in all directions to search for his missing wife Sita. Hanuman(one of the vanaras sent to search for Sita) who went to south direction, discovered Sita in Lanka and informed Rama about it. Rama built a bridge across the sea with the help of Neela(another vanara) and crossed the bridge along with his mighty army of vanaras into Lanka. There he slew Ravana, rescued his wife Sita and returned to Ayodhya. There, he was annointed as the Emperor of Khosala. Rama ruled the earth for 11000 years. He established dharma in his rule. Peace and prosperity were hallmarks of his rule. His rule came to be known as Rama-Rajya to the world.

In Rama Rajya, there were no deaths of minors/childs/kid. There were no widows. There were no fire accidents. There were no viral fevers. There were no starvation deaths. People were free from nasty diseases. There were no deaths of even animals by drowing. There were no turbulances in the world. There were no thefts. Rama performed many Ashvameda Yagams and several other Vedic Yagams. He gifted away great wealth, crores of milch cows and expensive jewels to Brahmanas. He donated extensively to the poor, needy, and deserving. He ruled for 11000years and then after giving up his mortal coil, he reached Brahma Lokam(World of Brahma)."

Brahmarshi Narada also narrates a phalashruti(advantages of listening/reading to a particular devotional saga). The phalashruti he gives for this Ramayana is that those who read it will have a long span of life. They will be able to see their great grand children play. After that they will have a painless death and reach heaven.

Rishi Valmiki listened to this brief Ramayana very attentively. He was delighted to listen the story of Lord Rama. His mind and heart were filled with celestial joy and divine peace.

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जय श्री राम !
( Jai Sri Ram )

To be contd...(Next Episode: Begining of the Epic Ramayana)

Background info about Hinduism to understand Ramayana

2010-03-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

Guys, before I delve into Ramayana, some definitions of some frequently used terms so that the story could be understood better. I know it would be quite confusing to absorb all this info in one go. But even if you dont grasp all the things at first, its fine. You would still understand and hopefully enjoy the story. But if you can understand this background info also, then you would be in a much better position to appreciate the essence of the story. So, lets begin:

Rishi: Rishi is a term used for someone who has left the material world to do spiritual excercises(like meditate, pray, do yagams..etc). Meditation is called as tapasya in sanskrit. It is believed that through tapasya and kund alini yoga, the rishis can attain super-human powers. The extent of tapasya determines the super-human powers. Though such powers are attained by the rishis, it is not the goal. The ultimate of goal of tapa sya is god. It is believed that if someone(anyone) goes and does tapasya sincerely for enough time, then the god will appear to give him a boon. Ravana(the villian of Ramayana) had done tapasya for 10,000 years. Yep, 10,000 years!!

There are different stages of Rishi-hood. The stages are:

-Rajarshi
-Maharshi
-Brahmarshi.

There is another kind of Rishi-hood: Devarshi. Devarshis are the divine rishis of Gods. They are supremely knowledgeble and always in meditation.

Yagam: It is a ritual where a fire is ignited and ghee is poured into it while uttering mantras(hymns that are supposed to contain powers). The ghee is called 'havisu'.
This is considered to please the gods. The ghee is poured into the fire(agni) while chanting mantras. And Gods come and take the havisu. They bless the person, region, nation who has performed the yagam. There are different types of yagams.

Gods: Gods are divine beings. They are young(the age of 30) forever, and they do not die(because they drink amritha). They have marriages as well. But they do not have children because of a certain curse. Gods also have to follow rules, they are not totally independent. They are like a cabinet which governs the universe. The Gods live in Heaven. The principled gods are:

Indra: the king of Gods.
Agni: fire god
Varuna: water god
Yama: god of death and justice
Kubera: King of gandharvas
Vayu: wind god
Surya: son god

There are supposed to be different races in the universe.

These races are:

#Gods(devas/suras),
#Demons(rakshas/asuras),
#Gandharvas,
#Kinneras,
#Kimpurushas,
#Nagas(snakes),
#Humans(nara),
#Half-humans(vanara),
#Animals(pashu).

Gods, Gandharvas, Kinneras, Kimpurushas, and Nagas are superior races with divine qualities and great powers(physical, mental, magical..etc). Generally, all of them are collectively called as Gods(Suras/devas). Their number is thirty-three crores.
Humans, Half-humans are normal races.
Animals and insects are lowly races.
Rakshas are demons. They are also have immense physical power but lack morals and have sadistic behaviour.

Generally, Rakshas(demons) and Devas(gods) are locked in one-up man ship. Rakshas dream of defeating the gods and ruling the universe.
Humans, Half-humans, Animals, and insects are not really taken seriously. They just live their lives.

Finally, there are three super gods: Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva. In simple terms: Brahma is the creator of the universe, Vishnu is the sustainer and protector of the universe and Shiva destroys or dissolves the universe at the end of four yugas. The four yugas, namely Krita(or Sathya) Yuga, Tretha Yuga, Dwapara Yuga and Kali Yuga collectively form one Kalpa. One Yuga consists of a certain number of years. Following is a pictorial depiction:

After four Yugas(that is on completion of one Kalpa), Shiva dissolves the entire universe so that creation can be started a fresh.

But its a very simplistic explanation.
These three super-gods rule the universe. The normal gods also run to one of these trimurtis( the three super-gods) when they face problems.

Trimurtis(The 3 Super-Gods)
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Brahma, creator of universe:

Saraswati(Goddess of learning/intellect/education/skill/talent), wife of Brahma:

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Sri Maha Vishnu, the sustainer and protector of universe:

Lakshmi(Goddess of wealth/wellbeing), wife of Vishnu:

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Shiva, the dissolver of universe so as to recreate it from fresh:

Parvati(Goddess of strength/courage/power), wife of Shiva:

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Some Background Info for better understanding of story...

2010-03-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

Many ancient indian puranas mention the adventures of Emperor Rama born in Ikshavaku Dynasty who ruled the Empire of Khosala and had vanquished the mighty and cruel Ravana. His capital city was Ayodhya. His rule was benevolent and prosperous. He was famous for his dharmic conduct. Srimad Ramayana authored by Maharshi Valmiki is the biography of Rama. It is considered the first proper literary work of human civilization. This work deals exclusively and extensively with the life of Rama. It is certain that the events described in the work were real incidents. Of course, to accept Rama as an incarnate of God or an excellent human ruler is our individual discretion.

Millions of Hindus, across the world, believe Sri Rama to be an avatar of Sri Maha Vishnu. Lord had declared in Bhagavad Gita,"

yada yada hi dharmasya
glanir bhavati bharata
abhyutthanam adharmasya
tadatmanam srujamya aham

i.e.

Whenever and wherever there is a decline in Dharmic practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of Adharma--at that time I descend Myself."

Dharma means the righteous practices laid out by the holy scriptures(Shaastras). Adharma is the behaviour that has been barred by the scriptures(Shaastras). People who live according to the edicts of Dharma are considered as Sajjana(Good guys). People who violate Dharma are considered as Adharmics. They are called as Durjjana(bad guys).

It is believed that Sri Maha Vishnu takes avatars whenever the Dharma is being undermined by Adharma and when Sajjanas(virtuous people) are being harrassed by Durjjanas(bad guys). Regardless of the avatar, the primary objective of every avatar is to reinstall the Dharma by defeating the Adharmics.

Sri Maha Vishnu's usual abode is called Vaikuntam. It is the world of Lord Vishnu. In this world, he is accompanied by his consort, Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Vishnu has lotus-petal like dark beautiful eyes. He has four hands, in which, he holds a Conch, a Disc, a Mace and a lotus. He is also armed with a sword that hangs at his hip. He is dark coloured resembling a dark cloud saturated with humidity. Lord Vishnu, is usually, depicted as lying on a couch formed by a serpant. This serpant is a devotee of Lord and his name is Adi Shesha. The name of the Conch is Panchajanya, the name of Disc is Sudharshana, Mace is known as Gomodhakee, Sword i called Nandaki.

Goddess Lakshmi is the eternal companion of Lord Vishnu. Goddess Lakshmi is the presiding deity of wealth and prosperity. Lakshmi is the shakti of Vishnu. It means that Lord Vishnu's power/energy is Goddess Lakshmi. Goddess Lakshmi is serving at the holy feet of her Lord. Out of love for her, Lord Vishnu offered his heart as a suitable place for Goddess Lakshmi. But Goddess Lakshmi chose the holy feet of Lord Vishnu as her abode, out of love for him. Thus, they are cosmic couple made for each other.

Lord Vishnu is one of the Trinity of Super-Gods. The three Super-Gods are Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Lord Brahma is the creator of Universe. Lord Vishnu is the sustainer of the Universe. And Lord Shiva is the dissolver of the Universe at the appropriate time. After the dissolution of the Universe, a new creation begins. The cycle of Creation-and-Dissolution is an endless and beginingless cycle that runs eternally.

Lord Brahma has four heads. His consort is Goddess Saraswati. She is the presiding deity of all knowledge and arts. Lord Brahma creates the Universe through the Vedic chanting and Tapa. Tapa means meditative penance. Prolonged periods of tapa give rise to increase in spiritual energy of the performer. Lord Brahma was born from a lotus that originated from the navel of Lord Vishnu. Hence, Lord Vishnu is considered a father of Lord Brahma. In the above picture, Lord Brahma can be seen sitting in the lotus that has its root in the navel of Lord Vishnu. Three heads of Lord Brahma can be seen in the picture. The fourth head is behind and hence is not depicted in the picture.

Since Lord Vishnu is the sustainer of the Universe, he is tasked with taking out bad guys. Lord Vishnu has taken innumerable Avatars and Semi-Avatars to achieve this purpose. What is an Avatar? An Avatar is an incarnation of Lord himself. What is a Semi-Avatar? A Semi-Avatar is a partial incarnation of Lord. Lord bestows some of his divine powers on a very righteous person to protect Dharma. Once, the objective is achieved, the divine powers are withdrawn from that person like anybody else. This phenomenon is called Semi-Avatar. Parashurama is a Semi-Avatar. An Avatar on the other hand is completely divine. When the Lord himself descends to protect Dharma, it is called as Avatar.

Lord Vishnu has a vehicle. This vehicle is a divine bird. His name is Garuda.
In the picture below, Lord Vishnu can be seen along with Goddess Lakshmi seated on Garuda.

Sri Maha Vishnu is said to have taken many many avatars and several semi-avatars to cleanse the world of wicked people and wrong practises. Out of these, some of the major and popular Avatars are enumerated below.

Some of the major avatars are:
1. Matsya, the fish, first appeared in the Krita Yuga(see following picture).

In this avatar, the Lord restored the Vedas from the demon Hayagreeva.

2. Kurma, the tortoise, first appeared in the Krita Yuga(see following picture):

In this avatar, the Lord helped the Great Ocean Churning(Samudra Mantana). The Great Milk Ocean held Amrita, an elixir that frees one from death and aging. To obtain that Amrita, the Milk Ocean had to be churned. Devas(Gods) and Asuras(Demons) got together and churned the Milk Ocean with the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

3. Varaha, the boar, first appeared in the Krita Yuga(see following picture).

In this avatar, the Lord eliminated Hiranyaksha. Hiranya-aksha was the brother of Hiranaya-kashyap. Hiranya-aksha was harassing the mother earth, so he was slain by Lord in this avatar.

4. Narasimha, the half man/half lion first appeared in the Krita Yuga.

In this avatar, Lord saved a great devotee of his named Prahaladha. Hiranya-kashyap was torturing his own son Prahaladha because he was Lord's devotee. To punish Hiranya-kashyap and to protect Prahaladha, Lord incarnated as Narasimha.

5. Vamana, the dwarf, first appeared in the Treta Yuga.(see following picture)

Prahaladha obtained a boon from Lord. The boon was that Lord would not kill anyone of his race, no matter what they do. After that, several years later, Prahaladha's grandson Bali defeated Indra. Indra sought help from the Lord. So, the Lord incarnated as the Vamana and deceived Bali into giving his entire empire as a donation. After that, Bali went away to netherland. Lord promised him that he would become the next Indra.

6. Parashurama, Rama with the axe, first appeared in the Treta Yuga.(see following picture)

This is a semi-avatar. Parashurama punished the misrulers of his era by slaying them. After the advent of Rama avatar, Parashurama's divinity was reclaimed by Rama. Later, Parashurama became a disciple of Dattatreya and gained the true knowledge and became emanicipated by achieving Moksha.

7. Rama, Ramachandra, the human Emperor of Khosala, first appeared in the Treta Yuga.(see following picture)

Lord was born as a humble human prince. He eliminated innumerable demons, the chief of them being Ravana. These demons were harassing all the righteous people and causing much harm to Dharma. Lord punished all of them and re-installed the dharmic rule. He spent 11000 years on the earth living the life of a dharmic human being to establish an ideal for all the human race.

8. Sri Krishna: A complete avatar. First appeared in Dwapara Yuga. He is revered as Jagadguru(teacher of the world) for giving Bhagadwad Gita.(see following picture)

Lord manifested in this avatar to cleanse the world from the Adharmic. The rakshas were born as Kshatriyas(warriors). So, the Lord guided Arjuna and thereby eliminated all the Adharmics.

9. Some consider Buddha to be the ninth avatar of Sri Maha Vishnu. While, some others consider Balarama to be ninth avatar of Sri Maha Vishnu:

The Sri Vaishnavas, a sect of hindus who worship Vishnu, do not believe that Buddha was Vishnu's incarnation, but another sect of hindus, Madhvas believe that Buddha was indeed Vishnu's incarnation. There is mention of Buddha in Brahmanda Purana as an avatar of Vishnu whose objective is to delude the Asuras(demons) by preaching a false religion so that their account of good karma(punyam) be decreased. Whether the Buddha being mentioned in the purana is same as Gautama Buddha, the originator of Buddhism, is unclear.

Buddha(see following picture):

Balarama is the elder brother of Sri Krishna and is said to be incarnation of Shesha(the serpant devotee of Sri Maha Vishnu)

Balarama(see following picture):

Sesha(serpant in the following picture), Lord Vishnu is resting on Sesha(serpant) while Goddess Lakshmi(Goddess of wealth and well-being) is serving her lord. Lord Brahma is seated on a lotus which has originated from the navel of Lord Vishnu. Therefore, Lord Vishnu is also called Padmanabha(lotus-navel):

10. Kalki(see following picture): an avatar that is yet to manifest. This avatar is supposed to come in Kali Yuga(we presently live in Kali Yuga). Once the injustices(adharma) reach the zenith then Sri Maha Vishnu will take an avatar of Kalki to cleanse the earth of of bad guys and protect the good guys. He will also establish Dharma by conquering Adharma.

The Indian ancient Time Divisions:
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If you are confused with the words Yuga, heres some explanation. According to ancient indian science, the time is divided into four yugas. In modern age, we divide time into AD and BC. This division is based on the supposed birth and death of Jesus of Nazareth, the central figure in Christianity. BC refers to 'Before Christ' while AD refers to 'Anno Domini'. There is another division also that we use in modern times, Ancient period, medieval period and modern period. Similarly, the ancient indians divided time into four yugas:

First Yuga is Krita(or Satya) Yuga: This is the first Epoch or Yuga. In this Yuga, righteousness is predominant while the unrighteouness is under check. All the beings were saturated with energy, radiance and strength. Dharma was duly followed by most people. Rakshas(demons) lived on the earth. Devas(Gods) could be seen by the naked eye of mortals. People living in this Epoch/Yuga had great punya(good karma). Any slight misconduct would be immediate be punished by the Devas(Gods). Dharma is generally symbolised by Ox/Bull. It is said that, in Krita Yuga/Epoch, Dharma(symbolised by Bull) used to walk on all the four legs. Lord Vishnu resides in the heart of every mortal. He wore white garment in Krita Yuga. White symbolises peace and purity. White also stands for Sattva Guna. The general life expectancy was much much longer in Krita Yuga. People could live for One Lakh Years. Water, air, and food were pure and unpolluted. This Yuga is considered Golden Yuga.

Krita Yuga is made up of 1728,000 Years. Each Epoch or Yuga can be divided 3 parts. The first part is Sandhi period or Conjuction Period. The second period is the Actual Period. The third period is again Sandhi period or Conjuction Period. Sandhi Period or Conjuction Period is a period of time when the effects of two Yugas can be seen. That is one Yuga is ending while another is going to start or one Yuga has ended while another is has started. During this time, the signs of two Yugas can be seen this called as Sandhi Period. Then, there is Actual Period. During this period, the effects of only that Yuga can be seen. Every Yuga has two Sandhi Periods and an Actual Period. The Sandhi Periods are much shorter than the Actual Period. Every Actual Period is preceded and succeded by a Sandhi Period.

Krita Yuga has 1728,000 Years.
Krita Yuga can be divided into 3 periods:
Sandhi Period= 144000 Years
Actual Period= 1440000 Years
Sandhi Period= 144000 Years
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Total Yuga = 1728000 Years.
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Second Yuga is Tretha Yuga: In this Yuga/Epoch, Dharma was slightly undermined. Resultantly, Adharma increased slightly. Dharma(symbolised by Ox) used to walk on only three legs. Lord Vishnu, residing in the hearts of mortals, wore a red garment. Red stands for Rajo Guna. The general steadfastness towards Dharma decreased and consequently, the spiritual energy of people diminished. But the people still could witness the Devas(Gods) with their physical eye. Rakshas(demons) still lived on the Earth. The general life-expectancy was reduced greatly, but still people could live for tens of thousands of Years. The immunity of the people reduced and new diseases started, but they could be checked. This Yuga is considered Silver Yuga.

Treta Yuga has 1296,000 Years.
Treta Yuga can be divided into 3 periods:
Sandhi Period= 108000 Years
Actual Period= 1080000 Years
Sandhi Period= 108000 Years
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Total Yuga = 1296000 Years.
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Third Yuga is Dwapara Yuga: In this Epoch/Yuga, Dharma was greatly diminished. Now, Dharma and Adharma were in equal proportion. The people lost much of their physical, mental and spiritual prowess. They were confused and found it hard to discriminate between right and wrong. Due to the loss of spiritual energy, people could no longer see Devas(Gods). People's intelligence, physical power and emotional balance were greatly reduced. Only few exceptional beings were still responsible for the Dharmic Conduct. Rakshas(Demons) relocated to the Patala or Netherworld. Patala or Netherworld is supposed to be under the oceans. Dharma(symbolised by Ox) walked only on two legs. Lord Vishnu wore a yellow garment in this Epoch/Yuga. Yellow is a mixture of Rajo Guna, Tamo Guna and Sattva guna. The life-expectancy of people was about one thousand years. The immunity of people was lost. And diseases made occassional presence. This Yuga is considered Bronze Yuga.

Dwapara Yuga has 864,000 Years.
Dwapara Yuga can be divided into 3 periods:
Sandhi Period= 72000 Years
Actual Period= 720000 Years
Sandhi Period= 72000 Years
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Total Yuga = 864000 Years.
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Fourth and final Yuga is Kali Yuga: In this Epoch/Yuga, Dharma was almost lost. Adharma had taken over. All mortals were under the sway of Kali and resorted to various sins with a relish. They lost all fear of Devas(Gods) and all shame from sins(Papam). They did not respect their elders nor care for the people lesser than themselves. The people were very weak, and all sorts of diseases were rampant. The people had lost all intelligence but still wallowed in pride and delusion. Fathers were humiliated by sons and husbands were humiliated by wives. Women were not cared for. The people of Kali, were weak-hearted and weak-willed. They did not adhere to any Dharma. They live only to enjoy sensual pleasures. Dharma(symbolised by a Bull) walked only one leg. Lord Vishnu, resided in mortal's heart, wearing a black garment. Black symbolises Tamo Guna. Rakshas entered into the hearts of human beings. Atheism and agnostism was on rise. The life-expectancy in this Epoch/Yuga was One Hundred Years. This Yuga is considered Iron Yuga.

Kali Yuga has 432,000 Years.
Treta Yuga can be divided into 3 periods:
Sandhi Period= 36000 Years
Actual Period= 360000 Years
Sandhi Period= 36000 Years
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Total Yuga = 432000 Years.
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Mahayuga:All the four Yugas are referred to together as one Mahayuga. A Mahayuga starts with Krita(or Satya) Yuga. Then, Treta Yuga follows. Then, Dwapara Yuga follows and finally Kali Yuga occurs. After the end of Kali Yuga, Mahayuga also ends.

1 Mahayuga = Satya Yuga + Treta Yuga + Dwapara Yuga + Kali Yuga.
=> 1 Mahayuga = 1728,000 years + 1296,000 years + 864,000 years + 432,000 years.
=> 1 Mahayuga = 4320,000 Years.

After the completion of every Mahayuga, another Mahayuga starts with a new Krita Yuga.

Manvantara: One Manavantara is made up of 71 Mahayugas.

1 Manvantara= 71 Mahayugas.
=> 1 Manvantara= 71* 4320,000 Years.
=> 1 Manvantara= 306,720,000 Years.

Every Manvantara has a new Manu and Indra. Thus, the life-time of an Indra is 306,720,000 Years.

Kalpa:14 Manavantaras equal 1 Kalpa. In addition, a Kalpa has an Adhi Sandhi period. This Adhi Sandhi Period is 1,728,000 years.

Thus,
1 Kalpa = 14 Manvantaras + 1,728,000 Years.
=> 1 Kalpa = 14 * 306,720,000 Years + 1,728,000 Years.
=> 1 Kalpa = 4,295,808,000 Years.

Lord Brahma's Life-time:
1 Kalpa forms one day-time of Lord Brahma. Then, there is an equivalent amount of night time when Lord Brahma rests. During this time, there is no creation. Thus, 1 Kalpa of Creation is followed by another Kalpa of dissolution. 2 Kalpas form one Day of Lord Brahma. 30 such Days form one month. 12 such months form one Year for Lord Brahma. Lord Brahms lives for 100 such years.

Thus,
1 Brahma's life time= 2 Kalpas(1 day) * 30(days of month) * 12(months of year) * 100(years).
=> 1 Brahma's life time = 2* 360 * 100 Kalpas.
=> 1 Brahmas' life time= 72,000 Kalpas.

After the end of this period, a new Brahma replaces the old one. The new Brahma originates from the Lotus born from Lord Vishnu's navel.

Reckoning of time amongst the pitrs (Dead Ancestors):

1 human fortnight (14 days) = 1 day of the pitrs
30 days of the pitrs = 1 month of the pitrs = (14 x 30 = 420 human days)
12 months of the pitrs = 1 year of the pitrs = (12 months of pitrs x 420 human days = 5040 human days)
The lifespan of the pitrs is 100 years of the pitrs (= 36,000 pitr days = 504,000 human days)

Reckoning of time amongst the Devas(Gods).

1 human year = 1 day of the Devas.
30 days of the Devas = 1 month of the Devas. (= 30 human years)
12 months of the Devas = 1 year of the Devas = 1 divine year (= 360 human years)
The lifespan of the Devas is 100 years of the Devas (= 36,000 human years)

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Lord Rama is said to be the human incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He has lived his life like any normal human being. He had no extra-ordinary divine or occult powers. Yet, he lived every second of his life strictly in accordance with Dharma as prescribed by Shaastras(Vedas and those scriptures that have Vedas as their basis). Therefore, Rama's life is often declared as an ideal role model for all human beings. Rama is called Maryad Purushottam. Purshottam means the best among men and maryada would broadly mean respect. Maryada also means boundary. Here, Maryada means boundary of righteousness which bestows respect on those who do not cross it. Rama is called Maryada Purushottam because he commanded respect from all the righteous people by not crossing the boundary of Dharma.

Whether we take Rama as a great indian king who led a extraordinarily virtous life or take him as a god incarnate, is upto us. But there is little doubt that his life can teach us many valuable lessons. Not just moral or spiritual lessons but his biography gives us tips about the day-to-day social interactions, managing emotional relationships, insight into political ploys, financial dealings, business mangagement techniques, war strategies, self-development tools, and communication methods. It has a great contemporary use along with its spiritual, and religious side. Any human being who wants to be a adorable husband, a virtuous son, a loving elder brother, a good friend, or a fearsome rival has to atleast once read about the legendary life of Sri Rama. Ramayana is first and best book that teaches 'how to win over friends and defeat enemies'.

Ramayana : Ancient Indian Epic.

2010-03-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

Prologue:

Ramayana is one of the oldest epics of the world and it enjoys the rare distinction of having enjoyed popularity even after thousands of centuries. This epic is perhaps one of the first great literatures that human civilization has come up with. And it still survives...not just in books but in hearts of millions of people.

Ramayana is a story of King Rama who ruled Khosala, one of the ancient Indian kingdoms. Ramayana, over the years has been translated into different languages, both Indian and foreign. It is understandable that so many people wanted to rewrite this story even though their audience mostly know the story. The reason is simple, the original story of Ramayana is most engaging and gripping to any average reader. It is thrilling tale of a human being trying to be just and fair, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Thus it is no surprise that many authors have written this magnificent tale in different languages. Some authors used their creative license to change certain scenes slightly to suit the tastes of their audience or to make some scenes even more dramatic. But the widely acknowledged original version is written in Sanskrit by Valmiki. Valmiki is considered the adi kavi(first poet) of India. He composed the Ramayana in Sanskrit language. Sanskrit is an old Indian language which is today not spoken widely. A pity because it is the language in which most ancient literary treasures have been composed. Sanskrit is considered the mother of most Indian languages, that is one reason why many indian languages share many similar words. Because they are all derived from Sanskrit.

Ramayana has been very popular in India and many characters are widely famous. But interestingly some popular scenes are absent or different in the original Srimad Ramayanam written by Valmiki.

I am attempting to write briefely the original Srimad Ramayana story to the best of my knowledge and ability in a simple and modern way to those who are interested in learning about the Indian ancient epic. The Ramayana gives us a window to the exceptionally rich, mature and broadminded culture of India whose roots are in the saying " Vasudaiva Kutumbakam(World is a family)". This saying is millenias old but is refreshingly modern and similar to the latest buzz word "global village".

Similarly, the Ramayana though an old story, it surprisingly strikes a chord in our modern lifestyle. It not only teaches us ancient values of India, but it also parallely tells a story of India's riches, its heritage, its culture but more importantly history of mankind...