Rama’s words, steeped in dharma and free from anxiety, struck a chord with Kausalya’s innermost conscience. His calm conviction lifted her from the depths of shock, preparing her to embrace his unwavering decision to fulfill his father’s command. Resolute and serene, Rama radiated strength as he turned his attention to soothing Lakshmana, who, like a mighty serpent, seethed with rage, his fiery gaze betraying his turmoil.
Placing a steady hand on Lakshmana’s shoulder, Rama spoke with wisdom and clarity:
“Abandon your anger, my brother, and let courage guide your heart. Set aside this insult, dissolve it into reality, and cast away thoughts of the coronation that was never meant to be. Instead, embark on a course of action free from risk and aligned with duty—it will renew your spirit. Maintain a demeanor that keeps Queen Kaikeyi’s trust in her choice unwavering. I cannot tolerate any displeasure or unrest caused by us to her.
Reflect, Lakshmana. I have never knowingly or unknowingly caused hurt to our mother. The word of a king—truthful, brave, and unwavering—must be upheld, for its sanctity ensures the kingdom’s stability. If my coronation proceeds, Father’s word, deprived of its truth, will lose its brilliance. Such a betrayal of his harmony would pain me deeply. Hence, I have resolved to renounce the throne and accept exile.
When news of my departure reaches Kaikeyi, she will find peace and boldly ensure Bharata’s coronation. I must grant her this tranquility of mind. The divine will has spoken through her. She has no selfish intent in this; instead, she is but a tool of destiny’s design. This course, though painful, is not hers but the gods’. Why else would fate choose such a devoted queen—a woman of courage who once risked her life for her husband—to carry out this divine scheme?
Lakshmana, no one escapes the influence of divine will. It weaves joy and sorrow, gain and loss, creation and destruction. Even the mightiest ascetics succumb to its unseen threads. Resistance is futile; acceptance alone brings peace. The suspension of my coronation is but part of this grand design.
Do not accuse Kaikeyi of wrongdoing, Lakshmana. She is not the architect of our misfortune but merely the instrument of divine purpose. We must elevate our perspective, for trusting in God is to transform anger into strength, sorrow into faith, and adversity into opportunity. This is my path, brother—a journey to brighter realms, where hope and faith dwell.
But first, let me sever my ties with all possessions the public treasury funds. I shall draw water from the well myself and prepare for this journey, untainted by borrowed wealth. This act is not a rejection of material riches but a declaration of personal principle. Let us act with dignity, never blaming Kaikeyi but honoring her role in this divine narrative.”
In this, Rama’s greatness shines—a beacon of fortitude and grace. He transformed grief into faith, rage into responsibility, and despair into hope, forging a future free of imbalance and discord. His acceptance of divine will and his elevation of duty over resentment offers a timeless lesson for all, especially those in positions of leadership. Truly, Rama exemplifies the art of turning trials into triumphs, crafting harmony from discord, and embracing the divine play with unwavering trust.