Exile Embraced: Rama's Unwavering Duty

Upon hearing Kaikeyi's words, Rama began to smile. "Mother, whatever you have planned for me will be my blessing," he said politely to Kaikeyi. "Your wish is my command. I am ready to go to the forest for fourteen years. Please take care of Father and reassure him not to worry about me."

Kaikeyi was happy and surprised when Rama readily agreed to go to the forest. After touching Kaikeyi's and his father's feet, Rama, like an ideal and dutiful son, got ready to go. Lakshmana, who was standing outside the room, followed Rama. After this, Rama went to his mother, Kaushalya, to seek her blessings. "Father has made me king of the forest. Please bless me to protect the forest from humanity's enemies," Rama said to his mother, Kaushalya.

Even though Rama was the avatar of Lord Vishnu, he experienced happiness and sadness just like an ordinary man. However, he differed from an ordinary human, especially during difficult times. While an ordinary person might become disappointed when facing adversity, Rama consistently upheld the highest ideals of life under all conditions. He always remained mindful of his responsibilities as a man and as a son. That's why even today, Rama is honored as Maryada Purushottam, which means 'the greatest among men.'

Sita was Rama's consort. They had two bodies but one mind. So, Sita stubbornly insisted upon accompanying Rama to the forest. Lakshmana also declared that he would go to the woods with Rama as he could not live without his older brother. Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana went to Dasharatha for permission to go to the forest. Dasharatha was lying unconscious on the floor. He had a vacant expression and looked bereaved. Rama and Lakshmana sat him down, touched his feet, and sought his permission and blessings to go to the forest.

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita, dressed in ascetics' clothes appropriate for the occasion, left the palace. The three of them were seated on a chariot and began their journey to the forest. The people of Ayodhya were beating their chests and crying. Some left their houses and followed the chariot, deciding to accompany Rama into the woods. There was so much dedication toward Rama because he had boundless affection for every citizen of Ayodhya. Dasharatha came out of Kaikeyi's mansion and caught a fleeting glimpse of his beloved Rama amid the dust flying from the chariots. After that, he became unconscious again. Rama was the epitome of love. His love extended not only to humans but to all creatures worldwide. When he went to the forest, the citizens of Ayodhya were overwhelmed with grief. The people were restless to see Rama, and even animals and birds did not want Rama to go to the forest.