The news of Kaikeyi’s demands, and Rama’s decision spread like wildfire through the palace and the kingdom. It was received with grief and anger everywhere. But Rama’s face was as peaceful and pleasant as always. He was doing his duty as he carried out his father’s instructions. Whether he was asked to be the Crown Prince or sent into the forest, he accepted both orders with equal feelings of joy. Rama, Seeta and Lakshmana took off their rich clothes and ornaments and put on the clothes that ascetics wear in forests. As they walked through the palace to take a final blessing from Dasharatha, the people in the palace wept. Dasharatha still lay unconscious. Rama gently lifted and seated him. Then, bowing at his feet, he took his blessing before leaving the palace. He took leave of Kaikeyi too. She realised that Seeta and Lakshmana were also going away.
Ready for the Forest
