The Morning of Destiny (Ramayana Series 22)

The long night finally passed, and the golden rays of the sun spread across Ayodhya. The auspicious hour for Rama’s coronation had arrived—under the sacred constellation of Pushya. Sage Vasistha, the royal preceptor, entered the grand city of Ayodhya with his disciples, bringing along the ceremonial materials needed for the great occasion.

The streets of Ayodhya gleamed with celebration. Colorful flags fluttered, flower garlands adorned the doorways, and the air was fragrant with fresh blossoms scattered across the roads. Every lane was filled with music, laughter, and the joyful anticipation of Rama’s coronation. The entire city appeared like a heavenly abode awaiting its divine prince.

Crossing the festive streets, Sage Vasistha and his disciples reached the royal palace. At the entrance stood Sumantra—the wise minister and charioteer of King Dasharatha. Vasistha gently instructed him to inform the king that the sacred hour had come and that all was ready for Rama’s coronation.

Obediently, Sumantra entered the royal chambers to deliver the message. Though no one was allowed into the inner palace at that time, Sumantra was always an exception. His loyalty and seniority earned him that privilege. Without knowing the tragic events of the previous night, he approached the king with cheerful reverence and began his usual words of praise.

“Great King!” he said respectfully. “The night has ended, and the blessed morning has dawned. Arise, O Lion among Kings! All the arrangements for Prince Rama’s coronation are complete. The noble Sage Vasistha, honored by all citizens, awaits your command with the sacred materials. Let this be the day of joy and fulfillment—let Rama be crowned!”

But at these words, the grief-stricken king trembled again. The reminder of Rama’s coronation pierced his heart like an arrow. His eyes, red from sleepless tears, lifted weakly toward Sumantra. “O Sumantra,” he whispered in anguish, “every word you speak cuts into my heart again and again.”

Seeing the king’s distress, Sumantra stepped back in silence. Before he could speak again, Queen Kaikeyi—calm yet cold—addressed him: “Sumantra! The king stayed awake last night, thinking of Rama’s coronation. Exhausted, he has just fallen asleep. Bring the noble prince here at once. Go quickly—there is no need to hesitate.”

Sumantra was puzzled. “O Queen,” he said respectfully, “without knowing the king’s true intention, how can I summon the prince?” But Dasharatha, struggling between grief and duty, murmured faintly, “Sumantra… bring Rama here. I wish to see him once more.”

Still unaware of the tragedy, Sumantra assumed that the king simply wanted to bless Rama before the coronation. Bowing deeply, he accepted the royal order and left the chamber with joy.

As he hurried toward Rama’s residence, Kaikeyi’s last words echoed in his mind—“Bring the prince immediately.” He wondered, “Why is Queen Kaikeyi in such haste to see Rama? Perhaps she wishes to witness the coronation sooner. Maybe the king, weary from last night’s wakefulness, has asked Rama to come and receive the crown here instead.”

Filled with happiness and excitement, the loyal minister quickened his pace—eager to see his beloved prince and deliver what he thought was joyous news.