Hindu EpicsStories from the Ramayana

The Exile of Rama

Prince Rama accepts a 14-year exile to the forest to uphold his father's honor and divine duty.

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Illustration for The Exile of Rama - a stories from the ramayana Hindu Epics story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

Discover The Exile of Rama from the Ramayana. When Queen Kaikeyi demands his banishment, Rama chooses duty over the throne to honor his father's ancient vow.

In the kingdom of Ayodhya, King Dasharatha prepared to crown his eldest son, Rama, as his successor. Rama was beloved by all for his wisdom and virtue. However, Queen Kaikeyi, spurred by the poisonous whispers of her maid Manthara, invoked two ancient boons promised to her by the King. She demanded that her own son, Bharata, be crowned king and that Rama be exiled to the Dandaka forest for fourteen years. Devastated and bound by his word, Dasharatha was forced to comply. Rama, embodying the spirit of Dharma, accepted the decree without a hint of resentment to preserve his father's honor. Accompanied by his devoted wife Sita and his loyal brother Lakshmana, Rama shed his royal robes for the simple garb of an ascetic. As the trio departed, the people of Ayodhya wept, marking the beginning of an epic journey of sacrifice and righteousness.

The Moral

True righteousness lies in fulfilling one's duty and upholding one's word, even at the cost of personal sacrifice.

“Truth is the foundation of all virtue; I will follow my father's word to the end.”

Fun Fact

The Dandaka forest mentioned in the story is historically associated with a vast region in central India, covering parts of present-day Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of The Exile of Rama?

The story emphasizes the importance of Dharma (duty) and integrity. Rama sacrifices his royal life to ensure his father remains truthful to his word, teaching that honor is greater than power.

Why was Rama exiled for exactly 14 years?

Ancient laws suggested that an absence of 14 years would legally terminate a person's claim to the throne. Kaikeyi chose this duration to ensure her son Bharata would be firmly established as the ruler.

Who went with Rama into the forest?

Rama was joined by his wife Sita, who refused to be separated from him, and his brother Lakshmana, who insisted on serving and protecting the couple during their exile.

What happened to King Dasharatha after the exile?

King Dasharatha was heartbroken by the separation from his favorite son. Unable to bear the grief and the guilt of his actions, he passed away shortly after Rama entered the forest.

How did Bharata react to Rama's exile?

Bharata was devastated and angry with his mother. He refused to sit on the throne, instead placing Rama's sandals on it and ruling as a regent in Rama's name from a small village nearby.

Who was responsible for Rama's banishment?

While Queen Kaikeyi made the formal demand, she was manipulated by her maid Manthara, who convinced the queen that Rama's kingship would lead to Bharata's ruin.