Dasharatha was miserable seeing not only Rama but also the delicate Seeta leaving for the forest. How would she cope with the hardships of life in the forest? His brave Lakshmana was also with them. He was losing all three at one stroke! He asked Sumantra to escort them as far as possible and look after them. Sumitra was a tower of strength, controlling her own grief and consoling Kaushalya. Sumantra waited at the palace gates with a chariot that would take Rama and the others into the forest. The citizens had gathered around the gates, ready to accompany their beloved Rama. Dasharatha stumbled out of the room to get a glimpse of Rama, Lakshmana and Seeta. He did not ever wish to see Kaikeyi again. This was something Kaikeyi had not thought of when she asked for her boons. As the chariot drew away with a huge crowd following it, Dasharatha collapsed.
Ayodhya Weeps
