Aug 18, 2007

Chapter 63: Rama considered for ‘Yuvraj’ post

D suggests ‘Prince’-ing Rama, who says Bharath is better equipped to be the Prince. But all devoted to Rama and Sita.

KK’s bro Kukasth visits her, saying parents are ill and wishes to see their grandson Bharath. Not having seen them is making their unhealthy worse. KK perplexed, but after consulting her co-sisters, she agrees. Bharat, although willing to go, says he has never had a day without seeing Rama and indeed it would be difficult. So he assigns the task of ‘morning-darshan’ of Rama to his wife Mandavi. Also he says to look after his mother KK from the bad habits of Manthara.

At the time of his departure, Rama is out with King. Bharath is sad to go without letting him know but he gets permission from Sita herself.

Rama, meanwhile, is telling all the ministers why he is not the right candidate for ‘Yuvrajship’. Ministers ask why he killed Subahu, why he gave Ahalya life and why he lifted Pinakini. Rama replies that he killed Subahu because he was following his Kartavya (work), gave Ahalya life because of dharma and lifted Pinakini because his guru told him to do so.

Ministers say that only such person who does his work, dharma-follower and guru-follower can become yuvraj. Rama is at a loss to say anything and accepts defeat, read ‘post of Yuvraj’.

Raja is happy. So is rani. So is kulguru, who advises Rama and Sita to undertake a host of actions before becoming Yuvraj, such as worshipping Sun God at a river bank every morning for 15 days and eat once a day. Sita has to do the same. Sita and Rama readily oblige. Sita also wants to know dos and donts of being a crown princess.

King and Kausalya are elated. Kausalya says she will inform KK about Ram's becoming a prince later.

KK’s father is on bed, sick, waiting for grandchildren. When they come, he is all pleased and assures them all, including doc that he will get well.

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