Ayodhya Kand of Ramayana in Simple Language

Ayodhya Kand of Ramayana in Simple Language

English Stories

Sharing is caring!

The Ayodhya Kand is the second section of the Ramayana and tells the story of Lord Rama’s exile from Ayodhya. It focuses on love, sacrifice, duty, and family relationships. Here is the story in simple language:

1. King Dasharatha’s Decision

King Dasharatha, the ruler of Ayodhya, decided to crown his eldest son, Rama, as the king. Everyone loved Rama because he was kind, brave, and righteous. The people of Ayodhya were happy about this decision.

Dasharatha announced the coronation, and preparations began. Everyone in the palace was excited, and Queen Kaushalya, Rama’s mother, was overjoyed.

2. Kaikeyi’s Demand

Kaikeyi, another wife of Dasharatha and the mother of Bharata, was influenced by her maid Manthara. Manthara convinced Kaikeyi that if Rama became king, Bharata would lose his power and status.

Kaikeyi remembered the two boons (promises) that Dasharatha had granted her earlier. She decided to use these boons. Kaikeyi asked Dasharatha for:

  1. Bharata to be made king.
  2. Rama to be exiled to the forest for 14 years.

Dasharatha was heartbroken, but he had to keep his promise.

3. Rama’s Exile

When Rama heard about his father’s decision, he accepted it without complaint. He believed it was his duty to obey his parents. Rama told Kaikeyi he would leave for the forest immediately.

Rama’s wife, Sita, insisted on accompanying him. She said it was her duty to stay with her husband, no matter the circumstances. Rama’s younger brother, Lakshmana, also chose to go with him to serve and protect him.

The people of Ayodhya were deeply saddened by this decision. They loved Rama and did not want him to leave. However, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana left for the forest.

4. Dasharatha’s Grief

Dasharatha could not bear the pain of sending Rama away. He kept remembering how Kaikeyi forced him to make such a decision. Overwhelmed with sorrow, Dasharatha passed away shortly after Rama’s departure.

5. Bharata’s Return

Bharata, who was away when all this happened, returned to Ayodhya. He was shocked and angry when he learned about his mother Kaikeyi’s actions. Bharata refused to accept the throne and blamed Kaikeyi for causing so much suffering.

Bharata decided to go to the forest to bring Rama back and make him the king. He traveled to the forest with the royal family and many citizens.

6. Rama Refuses to Return

When Bharata met Rama in the forest, he begged him to return to Ayodhya and take the throne. However, Rama refused because he wanted to fulfill his father’s promise. Rama believed that following dharma (duty) was more important than his own desires.

Finally, Bharata agreed to rule Ayodhya in Rama’s absence, but he did so as a caretaker, not as a king. He took Rama’s paduka (sandals) and placed them on the throne as a symbol of Rama’s authority.

7. Life in the Forest

Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana started their life in the forest. They lived in simple huts and followed a peaceful lifestyle. They moved from one place to another, facing the challenges of forest life. Despite the hardships, they remained strong and united.

Conclusion

The Ayodhya Kand teaches us the importance of obeying one’s parents, fulfilling promises, and following the path of righteousness (dharma). Rama’s selflessness, Sita’s loyalty, and Lakshmana’s devotion make this story a timeless example of ideal behavior.

More stories:

Resources:

Sharing is caring!

Related Posts