Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana Leave the Palace

Lakshmana, who had been standing outside the sulking chamber, overheard the conversation and was furious. Rama tried to pacify him. He then declared that he would go with Rama to the forest. Rama tried to dissuade him, but Lakshmana was adamant.

Rama then informed his mother, Kaushalya, about Kaikeyi's boons. She was very upset but was unable to change Rama's firm decision to carry out his father's wishes. Rama then went to Sita and told her what had happened. She too insisted upon accompanying Rama to the forest, saying that it would be impossible for her to remain in the palace in his absence. 

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita took off their royal attire and jewelry, and wore ascetic clothes befitting forest-dwellers. The three of them went to the sulking chamber, where Dasharatha was still lying on the floor. They sat him down, touched his feet, and sought his blessings before departing. They also bade farewell to Kaikeyi.

They then boarded a chariot and began their journey to the Dandaka forest. Although the citizens of Ayodhya were beating their chests and crying, Rama maintained a serene expression. Some people even left their houses and followed the chariot.

Dasharatha came out of the palace, and caught a fleeting glimpse of his beloved Rama amid the dust flying from the chariots. After that, he became unconscious again.