Ramayana: "Ayodhyakanda"


  Ramayana Second Kanda: The Ayodhyakanda


Ayodhyakanda is the second book or section of the epic Ramayana. It primarily focuses on the events that occur in the city of Ayodhya after Rama's exile. Here are the key elements and events covered in the Ayodhyakanda:

1. Dasharatha's Grief: The section opens with the depiction of King Dasharatha's immense sorrow and remorse after sending Rama into exile. He is consumed by grief and guilt, eventually succumbing to his sorrow and passing away.

2. Bharata's Return: Bharata, Rama's younger half-brother and the son of Queen Kaikeyi, was unaware of the events that led to Rama's exile. When he learns about it, he is devastated and rushes back to Ayodhya from his maternal grandfather's kingdom. Bharata refuses to accept the kingdom and instead seeks to bring Rama back.

3. Rama's Stay in Chitrakuta: The Ayodhyakanda narrates Rama's life in the forest during his exile. Along with Sita and Lakshmana, Rama resides in the picturesque region of Chitrakuta. They interact with various sages, receive their blessings, and spend their days in spiritual contemplation.


4. Bharata's Meeting with Rama: Bharata reaches Chitrakuta and meets Rama, beseeching him to return to Ayodhya and assume the throne. However, Rama insists on fulfilling his father's promise and completing his fourteen-year exile. Bharata receives Rama's sandals as a symbol of his authority and returns to Ayodhya to rule in Rama's name.

5. The Kaikeyi-Dasharatha Revelation: The Ayodhyakanda reveals the truth behind Kaikeyi's role in Rama's exile. Kaikeyi's maid, Manthara, confronts her about the consequences of her actions, leading Kaikeyi to realize the error of her ways. She is filled with remorse for her role in causing Rama's suffering and regrets the choices she made under the influence of Manthara.

6. The Death of King Dasharatha: The Ayodhyakanda portrays the demise of King Dasharatha due to his separation from Rama. His passing marks a significant turning point in the story, further intensifying the emotional and political turmoil within Ayodhya.

The Ayodhyakanda lays the foundation for the subsequent sections of the Ramayana, as it explores the aftermath of Rama's exile and sets the stage for the events that unfold during his time in the forest and the eventual resolution of the story.

Bolo Subha... Dupahar... Shaam.... Jai Siya Ram...

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