Bliss-Girls

First Propagators of Ramayana

Maharishi Valmiki composed Ramayana consisting of 24000 verses split in 6 kandas and uttara, which were the events yet to happen at the time he composed the epic. After composing, the Maharishi pondered who would propagate this epic through performance. Maharishi selected Lava and Kusha, who were blessed with intellect and sweet voice as the propagators of Ramayana.

These two brothers travelled to different places and recited Ramayana in holy gatherings. Wherever they went and recited the poetry, they mesmerized the audience with their singing; they were praised by the saints and rishis. On one such occasion, Rama himself witnessed the two brothers perform. Captivated by their performance, Rama invited the two brothers to perform in his palace.

Description of Ayodhya

Maharishi describes Ayodhya in great detail in the epic. In the Bala Kanda, Ayodhya is described as a splendorous city under King Dasharatha’s rule. I am filled with anticipation to read about Rama Rajya, but that will have to wait. For now, enjoy reading a few points about King Dasharatha and Ayodhya under his rule.

• Ayodhya was built by Vaivasvata Manu also known as Prajapati Manu.
• The city had main roads that were broad and had flowering plants by its sides that were regularly watered.
• The city had many gardens and mango groves.
• It had strong fortifications and deep moat.
• All the residents of city wore fine clothes and jewellery, they were all wealthy, happy and virtuous.
• There was no one who was not educated in the city.
• Every house had well stocked grains and had very sweet water supply.
• In the city lived great musicians, artists and great warriors.
• Raja Dasharatha was well versed in vedas.
• He had great control over his senses and he was very dear to his subjects.
• There was not a single human with ill intentions, and there were no thieves during his rule.
• The city had excellent horses and elephants.
• Raja Dasharatha had 8 wise ministers: Dhrishti, Jayanta,Vijaya, Siddhartha, Arthasadhaka, Ashoka, Mantrapala and Sumantra.
• He had 2 family priests: Vasishta and Vamadeva.
• All his ministers and counsellors were well renowned, proficient, versed in sastras, wealthy and magnanimous.
• His ministers and counsellors were highly competent in dealing with people. They were never partial even to their own family members.
• His ministers followed state rules and always worked for the welfare of citizens. They never misused the state funds nor was there shortage of funds at anytime during Dasharatha’s rule.

If you can think of any leader, past or present, from anywhere around the globe, under whose leadership citizens experienced a glorious time, please comment and let me know.

Jai Shree Ram!