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Source: The Hindu (http://www.hinduonnet.com)

 

Glorious traditions kept by kings of yore

 

CHENNAI, OCT. 18. In the ancient system of political

administration, it was considered expedient and prudent for a

ruler to hand over power to another who is found more

intelligent, capable, meritorious and sagacious. This was

desirable in the interest of the people and the country. An

administrator with lesser excellence should not dominate over

others better suited for the throne. Another glorious tradition

which existed in olden days was the power being entrusted by the

king to his son who had been well-equipped in all spheres. The

father indeed felt happy and was proud when he saw his son's

(possible successor) popularity. Hearing words of appreciation

uttered by people about his son, the king will be more happy.

 

Again in days of yore, a king was always guided by a team of able

ministers who symbolised honesty, integrity and efficiency. It

was their duty to tender proper advice, unmindful of the

consequences. They were not sycophants or mere yes-men. They were

fearless in expressing their views though these may be quite at

variance with what the king held or which may provoke him. They

were even prepared to die but would not allow blatant mistakes to

occur. Thirukkural has a fine couplet on the duty of a minister

to offer genuine counsel.

 

Once a king tested those around him by asking them to quote the

price he would fetch if he was sold. Naturally many vied with one

another giving fabulous and staggering amounts. One person,

however, said he would be worth just a few copper coins. The king

got wild, removed the belt and was about to thrash him when the

former said, now he would not obtain even the cost of the belt.

Sita, when kept captive and when visited by Ravana, wondered

whether he had no ministers who could tender candid advice to him

not to covet another's wife.

 

In a lecture, Sri Sukhi Sivam explained how the Ramayana presents

the scene brilliantly where Emperor Dasaratha, who admired the

accomplishments of Rama and who thought it high time that the

burden of sovereignty was lifted off his tired shoulders,

convened an assembly of ministers and others to tell them of his

choice of Rama as the heir to throne. ``Old and infirm, I yearn

for peace and rest. I am not aware of anyone worthier than Rama

to succeed me. However, the final decision rests with you''. The

ministers' unanimous view was conveyed through Sumantra, the

chief among them. Then Dasaratha turned to his preceptor,

Vasishta, who had the final say.

 

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