Bengali Ramayana - Preparation

[Guest guest]

“ I have been having nightmares. Comets and

shooting stars have been shooting down earthwards. The

moon suddenly lost its light. I have seen many

ill-omens. I saw I was riding on the back of a Gandharva,

going southwards. I think my end is near. You become

the king.”<br>Kaushalya was very pleased to hear

this. She started distributing wealth among the poor.

<br>After finishing with Dasharatha, Rama left to see his

mother. Kaushalya was busy with her worship. She got up

and Rama bowed to her and said “Mother, today Father

has asked me to become king. Please pray to the Gods

so that no evil eye can touch me. Tomorrow I am to

be crowned king.” Kaushalya said “Rama, be immortal,

that is my blessing. Shiva and Parvati be always be

with you. I have got you as my son and today because

of you I will become the Queen Mother. Sumitra likes

me a lot. Her son Lakshmana is always with

you.”<br>Rama then called Lakshmana and said “You are my

beloved. I can not think of parting from you. You will

always be with me. When I become king, you will have to

rule with me.”<br>Next day, Rama accompanied by

Lakshmana then went to see Dashartha. People from all over

had assembled there. The celestial sage, Narada was

there. Gandharvas were singing and dancing. People were

running about getting things ready for the coronation.

Bettle nuts and young coconuts were being fetched. Jars

of clarified butter were being fetched. Lamps were

being lit. People were bringing gifts. People from all

over had assembled there and all were happy. Vashishta

told Rama, “I will crown you king today. You will hold

scepter in the presence of your father.” People started

cheering and greeting each other.