Page 2 - April-2025

A washerman publicly questions Devi Sita’s purity, casting
aspersions on her character due to her time in Lanka.
Though Shri Rama knew these accusations to be baseless,
he faced an agonizing dilemma. The conflict was not merely
between his duty as a king and his duty as a husband, as is commonly
believed. His profound love for Sitaji was also a crucial factor in
his decision.

Pujya Gurudev vividly describes the inner turmoil that
1
Ramachandraji endures. In the end, Shri Rama called upon
Lakshmana, instructing him to escort Sita to the forest and leave
her near Rishi Valmiki’s ashram – without any discussion.
Lakshmana was devastated, recalling that Sita had already
undergone the agni parékñä – not to prove herself to Shri Rama, but
to address societal perception.
Why this harsh step against Sitaji now? Lakshmana
wanted to protest, but the Lord had already made up his mind.
Seeing no other choice, Lakshmana complied. Sitaji, too, was taken
aback by this sudden turn of events. As instructed, Lakshmana
left her in the forest near Rishi Valmiki’s ashram and returned.
Familiar with the area from their time in exile, Sitaji made her
way to the ashram and sought refuge there. Rishi Valmiki
welcomed her, offering protection and care. In time, she gave birth to
her sons, Luva and Kusha, who spent their early years growing up
under his guidance.
When Lakshmana returned, he found Ramachandraji silent
– unwilling to discuss the matter. This silence has led many
to criticize Bhagavan unfairly. Yet, his actions stemmed from
deep love. Even today, people accuse him of being unjust, yet
few recognize the beauty with which he safeguarded Sitaji’s
dignity. He did not truly banish her; instead, he sent her to the
shelter of Rishi Valmiki’s ashram.

Today, people blame Shri Rama, but no one questions Devi
Sita’s purity – this was his achievement. Out of his boundless
love, he ensured that no one could ever cast a shadow of doubt
upon her; he bore the burden of blame entirely upon himself.

1 In his Introduction to the Rama Gita

Tapovan Prasad 49 April 2025