Rama, ever steadfast in his resolve to honour his word, journeyed tirelessly through the night, arriving at the borders of the kingdom by dawn. With the first rays of the sun, they offered their morning salutations to Aditya and resumed their path, navigating the natural demarcations of the land. Rama observed with wonder the finely ploughed fields, lush villages, and trees heavy with blooms and clusters of fruit, their beauty a testament to the land’s bounty.
As they travelled, Rama overheard scholars of the region recounting profound truths: “A single lapse in Dasaratha’s judgment opened the gates to the many-headed evil, whose influence pervades every sphere of life. Such fleeting moments of weakness can reshape history, ripple across time, and redefine the aspirations of the universe. They compel us to establish values, principles, and codes that guide humanity with resilience and harmony. A single moment can ignite transformation, a truth to be cherished in every heartbeat.”
The villagers, moved by Rama’s presence, whispered among themselves, “How could the king and queen bear to part with such a treasure as Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita? Yet we are fortunate to behold these great souls.” With folded hands and bowed heads, they silently offered their reverence. Rama, unperturbed by the varied perspectives he encountered, continued his journey, marvelling at the ever-changing beauty of the land.
Crossing the borders of Kosala, they traversed the sacred waters of the river Veda Shruti, heading southward. Their path led them to the confluence of the Gomati River with the ocean, a sanctified place adorned with grazing cattle. After offering their prayers, they moved onward, entering a realm where peacocks cried out in defiance of the wind’s howl. Passing along the holy river Syandika, their chariot and horses, sustained by the pure air and untainted environment, showed no weariness despite the arduous journey.
As they travelled, Rama spoke to Sita of the dynamic land ruled by the Ikshvaku dynasty, his voice steady and firm, instilling confidence. He addressed Sumantra, “When shall I return to pay homage to my parents and roam the Sarayu forests once more? Though hunting is the custom of kings and sages, I find no joy in disturbing nature’s harmony or its innocent creatures.” These words, a subtle instruction to Lakshmana, hinted at the restrained way of life Rama preferred in the forest.
Pausing to look back toward Ayodhya, Rama folded his hands in prayer. “O Ayodhya, noble land of the Kakutstha clan, and protector goddess of this realm, grant me permission to embrace my ascetic life. Upon fulfilling my exile, I shall return to ensure the welfare of my people.” Turning to the villagers who had gathered, he addressed them with humility, “Return to your duties without delay, for even a few hours lost can harm your livelihood. Time is precious, and nature rewards only those who labour with diligence. Let not your kindness to me cost you your prosperity. My gratitude is eternal; now, please resume your work with renewed Vigor.” Moved by his wisdom, the villagers bid him farewell with heavy hearts.
Continuing their journey, they crossed out of Kosala into a fertile region abundant with crops, fruits, and lush vegetation. Sacred altars and hermitages dotted the land, and ponds of sparkling water reflected a disciplined and prosperous society. The people, strong and robust, lived harmoniously with herds of thriving cattle, their chants of Vedic hymns filling the air with sanctity.
At last, they reached the sacred Ganga, whose waters flowed gracefully in three directions. Hermitages adorned the riverbanks, and traditionally dressed women, collecting Ganga’s holy waters, appeared like a garland of blossoms offered to the divine river. This hallowed stream, beloved by Yakshas, Gandharva’s, and Kinnaras, was a playground for celestial beings. Its serene embrace dispelled all weariness from their journey, filling their hearts with awe and purpose.
Rama’s passage along the Ganga revealed not just the natural splendour but also the timeless values and faith embedded in the land. Each phase of the journey unfolded deeper truths, making this odyssey more than a mere exile—it was a voyage of discovery, enriched with the treasures of wisdom, belief, and harmony.