The Birth of Rama (1)

Dasarath dwelt happily in Ayodhya awaiting the birth of his sons. The kings and brahmins so had assembled for the sacrifice left for their various abodes and sent kind words and gifts to the emperor. A few seasons passed. Then, at a time when favourable stars where visible in the heavens, Kaushalya gave birth to a son named Rama. Though Rama was the Supreme Lord, Kaushalya saw him simply as her own dear child. She held him tight from time to time, overwhelmed with motherly affection and unable to recognise his divinity. Coming out of the delivery room, Kaushalya shone brilliantly with the baby boy, who had eyes like lotus petals.

A son named Bharat was born from Kaikeyi; and from Sumitra, who had received two portions of ambrosia, were born twin sons, Lakshmana and Shatrughna. These three boys resembled celestials and seemed to blaze in their splendour. In the heavens, kettledrums resounded and showers of flowers fell upon the earth. Ayodhya was rejoicing so the streets quickly became crowded with parades. King Dasarath, overwhelmed with happiness, arranged for a grand feast to be distributed to his entire kingdom. Vasishtha joyfully performed the name-giving ceremony for the brothers. Of all four boys, Rama was especially glorious. His attractive body had the hue of a celestial diamond. Dressed in the finest silk and adorned with golden ornaments, they captured the mind of all who saw them. They were devoted to their father's service. Rama took delight in the science of archery and quickly mastered horseback and the art of elephant riding, as well as the various methods of driving a chariot.

Even though the brothers were all right knit, Lakshmana was deeply attached to Rama from his infancy. He was like a second self to Rama, and he pleased him in every way. Unless Lakshmana was present, Rama would neither sleep or eat. Whenever Rama went to the forest to hunt, Lakshmana would follow at his heels, guarding him on all sides. Shatrughna was just as dear to Bharat, and were even more inseparable. Dasarath was just as pleased with his four sons as Brahma feels with the four gods presiding over the four quarters of the universe. His sons were tigers among men, yet they were modest, wise, far-sightedand glorious in every way. They studied hard and soon became well versed in all aspecgs of kingship. As the princes' studies neared completion, Dasarath started thinking about their marriages. One day sage Vishvamitra, the son of Gadhi arrived at Dasarath's door.