In Ayodhya Rama wished to perform the Ashwamedha yajna that establishes the superiority of an emperor over other kingdoms. Rama and his brothers invited all the learned men, rishis, kings and princes across the land. It was customary for yajnas to be performed by the husband and wife together. Rama never thought of any woman except Seeta. So, a golden statue of Seeta was installed next to him while he performed the yajna. A thoroughly bred white horse was prepared and decorated with costly jewels before being let loose to travel across the land. Wherever it roamed, the sovereignty of the emperor had to be accepted. If it was held by anyone, that person had to battle with the emperor’s representatives or submit to him. Shatrughna accompanied the horse with an army. Wherever it went, people offered great respect to Shatrughna and paid homage to Sri Rama’s sovereignty. They agreed to pay the annual taxes to Rama.
Ashwamedha Yajna
