The noble prince Rama expressed his intent to cross the sacred Ganga. Guha, the tribal king and Rama’s devoted ally, gathered his trusted aides and instructed them:
“Prepare a sturdy, well-crafted boat, one fit to endure the turbulent currents and rough tides. Select an experienced seaman, one well-versed in the river’s winding courses and hidden perils.”
Following his command, a suitable vessel was brought forth. With hands folded in reverence, Guha addressed Rama:
“O noble soul, divine and sacred, what would you have me do next? Behold, the boat awaits your command to carry you across this river.”
Rama, with serene composure, replied:
“O Guha, king of the forest and steadfast friend, you have an unparalleled gift for discerning my heart’s desires and translating them into action. Your efforts bring me solace.”
Thus, Rama, armed with his bow, quiver, and sword, prepared to embark along with his loyal brother Lakshmana and the virtuous Sita. Standing humbly by, Sumanthra, the charioteer and Rama’s confidant, folded his hands and sought guidance:
“O great prince, what would you have me do next?”
Placing a comforting hand on Sumanthra’s shoulder, Rama spoke:
“O well-wisher, loyal servant of the Ikshvaku lineage, return to Ayodhya and tend to the king. He is weighed down by sorrow and advancing years. Serve him with unwavering dedication, for your service is invaluable. You have aided me beyond measure, but now I must continue this journey on foot.”
Sumanthra, overcome with emotion, lamented:
“You, O Rama, an embodiment of virtue, have chosen this arduous path of exile, a path unparalleled in this world. Your life, though righteous, illustrates that virtue does not always bear immediate fruit. Yet, under divine grace, your noble mission shall remain unbroken. O prince, we, your servants, are left bereft, subjected to the misrule of Kaikeyi. Permit me to accompany you into the forest, if only for a while, or allow me to return with you once your exile ends.”
Rama, ever patient, responded:
“O Sumanthra, your devotion is evident, but I entrust you with a vital task. Return to Ayodhya with the chariot and reassure all of our safe passage into the forest. This will calm their hearts and guide them toward acceptance, enabling Bharata to establish a just rule. Delay in your return could sow seeds of despair and suspicion, casting shadows over Ayodhya and the Ikshvaku dynasty. Go now, and fulfill this duty for the greater good.”
Rama then turned to Guha and said:
“O steadfast friend, I can no longer dwell in human habitation as I now take on the ascetic order. Fetch the latex of the banyan tree so that we may don matted hair, a symbol of our ascetic vows.”
Guha complied, and Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, transformed into ascetic attire, their appearance now befitting their chosen path. Rama entrusted Guha with the care of his people and kingdom:
“O Guha, be vigilant in your governance. Rule with wisdom, balancing the aspirations of the people with the demands of duty.”
As the moment of departure neared, Lakshmana assisted Sita into the boat with tender care, ensuring her comfort. He then invited Rama to board, following respectfully behind. Every action, every word was imbued with dignity and profound significance.
Bidding farewell to Sumanthra and Guha, the trio embarked on their journey. As the boat sailed across the sacred waters of the Ganga, it marked not just a crossing of the river but a voyage into destiny. Their path was laden with trials and revelations, weaving the tapestry of fate’s intricate design.
Rama’s composure, resilience, and unwavering sense of duty illuminated the way, transforming every challenge into a stepping stone toward universal purpose. Thus, the boat carried them forward—not merely as travelers, but as instruments of divine will, forging a legacy of virtue and sacrifice for all ages to come.