After killing Ravana and rescuing Sita, Rama wanted to seat a just ruler on the throne of Lanka. So Rama placed the jewelled crown on Vibhishan’s head. Sugreeva, Laxman and Hanuman looked on as the people of Lanka cheered for their new king. Vibhishan received many gifts during the coronation, but he gave them all to Rama as a token of appreciation. Rama, Laxman and Sita made preparations for their return to Ayodhya. They sat in a flying chariot and bade farewell to the army of monkeys. However, the monkeys insisted on accompanying Rama, so he decided to take them along. Rama sent Hanuman to Ayodhya to let everyone know that they were all returning. The entire city of Ayodhya was brightly lit and people thronged the roads with garlands in their hands to welcome Rama. As soon as Rama reached Ayodhya, Bharata rushed forward to touch the feet of Rama and Sita. Rama, Laxman and Sita met their mothers, Kaushalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi. Sage Vashishtha ordered arrangements for Rama’s coronation. Finally, Rama was seated on the throne and sage Vashishtha crowned him the king of Ayodhya and the other sages also blessed him. The people of Ayodhya rejoiced.
RAMA RETURNS TO AYODHYA
