In his serene and measured tone, Rama continues his profound counsel, a virtual training to elevate Bharatha to the zenith of efficiency in governance, knowing he himself is bound by a vow to remain in exile, fulfilling his father’s decree. Aware of his immovable commitment to dharma, Rama seeks to prepare Bharatha for the throne, ensuring his stewardship of Ayodhya aligns with the highest principles.
Rama begins by enquiring, “Bharatha, do the farmers, landlords, and herders remain content under your rule? Are their grievances addressed promptly, and do they find justice under your crown? Remember, it is the sacred duty of a king to protect agriculture, for it sustains the realm. Are the women entrusted with administration empowered to fulfill their roles without hindrance? Are timely decisions made to ensure smooth governance?
“Are the growth and well-being of elephant herds safeguarded? Neglect in this domain diminishes the kingdom’s wealth and strength. Likewise, never be complacent with the numbers of horses and elephants—these are symbols of a prosperous state. Do you engage daily with citizens, listening to their concerns and ensuring justice? This is a fundamental principle of regal conduct.
“Are the royal households adequately provided for? Are the kingdom’s revenues wisely managed, with income exceeding expenditure? Ensure resources do not fall into the wrong hands. Prioritize justifiable expenses such as honoring forefathers, and cultural displays, supporting Vedic scholars, and attending to guests and well-wishers. Should accusations arise against an honest individual, exercise discretion to uncover the truth, for the virtuous often face undue blame.
“Are wrongdoers punished regardless of their influence or proximity to power? Are law officers impartial in their duties? Do elders, scholars, and the needy find you accessible? Never slight scholars, guests, or artists, and ensure taxes do not burden the wealthy unfairly. Do the learned approve of your governance? Beware of royal blunders—anger, negligence, indolence, lack of foresight, and associating with the unworthy. These vices must be discarded entirely.
“Stay away from individuals who embody cruelty, laziness, deceit, cowardice, arrogance, and selfishness. Such qualities are detestable. Protect the kingdom’s five natural assets—waters, mountains, forests, deserts, and agricultural lands—with vigilance. Hold the four types of friends—blood relations, matrimonial allies, lineage kin, and protectors in adversity—in high esteem. Respect the seven pillars of the kingdom: king, ministers, state, palace, treasury, army, and allies.
“In war, master the seven strategies—Syena, Suchi, Vajra, Sakata, Makara, Danda, and Padma—and ensure the administration focuses on agriculture, trade, infrastructure, and rural development. Employ capable individuals for these tasks, while strictly adhering to achievable goals. Education must prioritize Vedic knowledge, agriculture, trade, and law enforcement.
“Be prepared to shield the people from calamities, both natural and man-made. Stand firm against corrupt officials, thieves, and treacherous associates. Recognize the twenty types of enemies unworthy of alliances, from the cowardly and selfish to the indolent and cursed. Discuss critical matters with your council, consolidating the kingdom’s strength even without territorial expansion.
“Adopt the strategy of aligning with friends’ friends and opposing enemies’ allies. The knowledge you acquire, the works you undertake, and the bonds you forge must yield fruitful outcomes. Above all, abide by dharma, for an impartial and righteous king secures both his people’s welfare and his place in heaven.”
Thus, Rama, in the sacred and ascetic setting of Chitrakuta, meticulously trains Bharatha to be an embodiment of excellence, preparing him to rule Ayodhya with wisdom and justice. His ultimate aim is universal welfare, ensuring Bharatha’s reign upholds the ideals of the Ikshvaku dynasty while fulfilling their father’s decree.
