Rama Consoles Lakshmana and Receives Kausalya’s Blessings (Ramayana Series 27)

Thus spoke Śrī Rama—foremost among eloquent speakers and unrivalled among warriors—calming his mother and then addressing Lakshmana:

“Lakshmana, I know the depth of your love for me. I know your valor, your strength, and the irresistible brilliance with which you face enemies. O auspicious one, cast away your anger toward our father and the sorrow born of my exile. Be steadfast. Do not regard a prince’s departure to the forest as disgrace. Rejoice instead, knowing that even this journey serves a greater good.

All the materials prepared for my coronation—have them dispersed without delay. Lakshmana, the king resolved to confer the kingdom upon me, yet on the very day it was to be granted, that right vanished, and exile became my lot. In all this, we must see the hand of destiny alone.

That which eludes human understanding is called fate. Even Brahmā and the guardians of life cannot overcome it. My exile, and the distortion that has entered Kaikeyi’s mind—these reveal the power of destiny. Fate cannot be grasped; its design becomes clear only after events unfold. Who, then, would willingly contend with such an unseen force?

Whether royal fortune or forest fortune—what matters? To me, exile itself appears auspicious today.”

Then, gently consoling his grief-stricken mother, Rama continued:

“Mother, it would be wholly improper for you to abandon the king at this moment. Deceived by Kaikeyi, if he is forsaken both by me and by you, he will surely not survive. As long as my father lives, you must serve him. This alone is eternal dharma.”

Hearing this, Queen Kausalya—her eyes overflowing with tears of separation—spoke with resignation and blessing:

“My son, I cannot change your firm resolve to go to the forest. Truly, time and destiny cannot be overcome. Go forth, unwavering, in obedience to your father’s word. May you be blessed in all times.

When you return from exile, my grief shall end. O best of the Raghus, may the dharma you uphold with courage and discipline protect you. May all the deities you worship daily in sacred shrines guard you in the forest.

May the mighty astras bestowed upon you by the wise Sage Vishwamitra protect you always. Strengthened by the merit gained through service to your father, service to your mother, and devotion to truth—may you live long.

Just as Vinatā blessed Garuḍa when he set out to obtain the nectar of immortality, so do I bless you now. May the auspiciousness that Garuḍa attained be yours as well. May the victory that Aditi wished upon Indra during the war between gods and demons be yours. May the supreme fortune that adorned Lord Vāmana—when He spanned the worlds and subdued Bali—rest upon you too.

May the six seasons, the seven oceans, the seven continents, the four Vedas, and the eight directions forever bestow auspiciousness upon you.”

Thus did Kausalya bless her son. Bending forward, she embraced him tightly, inhaled the fragrance of his head, and spoke through broken words:

“Go, my child—go, Rama. May your wishes be fulfilled. Even as you depart, my heart trembles with thoughts: Which forest does my tender son walk through now? How many thorns pierce his delicate feet? What fierce beasts must he face? Where does he rest at night? Such thoughts will never leave me.

Go, Rama—go. After your exile, return adorned in royal splendor and fulfil the hopes of me and my daughter-in-law Sita. May all directions bring you good fortune.”

With tear-filled eyes, Kausalya circumambulated Rama for his protection. Again and again she gazed upon him, unable to let go, embracing him once more before finally bidding him farewell.