Seeta did not wish to be an obstacle in the performance of Rama’s kingly duties towards his subjects. She walked towards the river-bank, and prayed to Mother Earth, “I have devoted myself in thought, word and action to Rama alone. By giving birth to his sons, I have completed my responsibility. If this is true, O Mother Earth, then take me into your bosom.”
The earth trembled, lightning flashed and clouds thundered as the earth opened up to welcome Seeta. A divine shower of flowers covered Seeta. The gods in heaven acclaimed, “Well Done!” Well Done, O Seeta of Peerless Conduct! You shall be worshipped till eternity.”
In a flash, she vanished into the womb of the earth. Rama’s silence broke in an outburst against the earth, “Return my Seeta to me or take me into you with her! I cannot live without her!”
Lord Brahma himself descended to tell Rama that he would now meet Seeta only in heaven. He had to fulfil his responsibilities first. Rama overcame his grief and returned to Ayodhya with his sons, his brothers, Hanuman and his entire army. The citizens celebrated the return of the king with the heirs to the throne.
