The End of Rama's Earthly Reign

Lakshmana had always been relentless in his obedience to Rama, never defying his brother's orders, not even in his dreams. He did not seek forgiveness for any misstep in carrying out Rama's commands. Lakshmana could have even barred a sage from entering the building in order to uphold the dignity of the Raghu clan. Meanwhile, Rama was caught in a painful dilemma—upholding the traditions of the Raghu clan by keeping his word or preserving his deep bond of brotherly love. Torn between duty and affection, Rama sought guidance from the clan’s guru, Maharshi Vashishtha.

Vashishtha was well aware of Rama's inner conflict. He knew that while Rama could control his emotions, he would never compromise on maintaining decorum. He pointed out that if Rama disowned Lakshmana, it would be as devastating as death for him. Hanuman also intervened, remarking that Lakshmana did not need to be sentenced to death; he would leave for Svarga on his own.

The next day, Lakshmana entered the waters of the Sarayu River and relinquished his breath. Indra, the king of the gods, seated Lakshmana on a chariot he had prepared for him and took him to Svarga. The people of Ayodhya who witnessed this miraculous event lauded Lakshmana’s ultimate sacrifice. When news of Lakshmana’s passing reached Rama, he was deeply shaken and resolved to leave the world himself. He then crowned his sons, Kusha and Lava, as rulers of the southern and northern parts of Kosala, respectively.

Bharata and Shatrughna expressed their desire to accompany Rama on his final journey. Maharshi Vashishtha counseled Rama that it was his dharma, as a king, to honor his loved ones’ wishes. Rama, having taken a human form for the welfare of the world, remained steadfast in his duty until the very end. He commanded Hanuman to bring Vibhishana from Lanka, requesting that Vibhishana oversee Ayodhya after his departure. Vibhishana, with unwavering loyalty, promised Rama that he would fulfill this duty and abide by his instructions.

Rama then turned to his staunchest devotee, Hanuman, who was heartbroken at the thought of his Lord leaving the mortal world. Rama gently said, "Hanuman, you must remain on earth forever and spread devotion to me. This will serve the greatest good." Hanuman, deeply honored, accepted the task, feeling that his devotion to Rama would only deepen in Rama’s absence. The mere thought of chanting Rama's name filled him with transcendent joy.

Having fulfilled his earthly duties, Rama set out for the banks of the Sarayu River, accompanied by his brothers and the citizens of Ayodhya. All the gods, including Lord Brahma, gathered to witness this divine event. Brahma, proud that an incarnation like Lord Rama had graced the earth, praised Rama for turning the world into a heaven through his righteous rule. He requested Rama to return to his original form as Lord Vishnu before ascending to Vaikuntha. Rama acceded and, along with Bharata and Shatrughna, entered the waters of the Sarayu.