36. A Tapestry of Emotions
The gods and Gandharvas who had assembled to witness the great battle departed, singing the glory of Rama and praising the devotion of the Vanaras. Rama expressed his deep gratitude to Indra, who had sent his chariot and deputed his charioteer, Matali, to assist him in battle. Matali then left for his heavenly abode, flying his chariot.
The Coronation of Vibhishana
Afterward, Rama retired to his camp for a brief while and instructed Lakshmana and Sugriva to arrange for the coronation of Vibhishana without delay. The Vanaras sprang into action, bringing water from the sea in golden vessels. Lakshmana made Vibhishana sit on the throne and poured sacred water on his head in accordance with the ritual. Vibhishana’s ministers and the crowd of demons erupted in shouts of joy.
Vibhishana assured his subjects that the country would enjoy sound and sensible governance. He advised them to live dutifully and fearlessly. In response, the demon chieftains showered numerous gifts upon Vibhishana, who, in turn, presented some precious offerings to Rama. Although Rama was not inclined to accept gifts, he felt compelled to do so to avoid offending Vibhishana.
Hanuman’s Joyful Mission
Looking at Hanuman, whose dedication and devotion were evident, Rama said, “O my brave lieutenant, you may now enter the fort with King Vibhishana’s permission. Upon meeting Sita, convey the news of our victory. Tell her that Ravana has been defeated and that Vibhishana, our friend, is now the King of Lanka. I am safe with Lakshmana and Sugriva.”
Hanuman entered the fort joyfully. The vast area covered by the fortifications was impressive. As he marched proudly, the demons bowed respectfully to him. He soon reached the rear part of the fort where Sita, held captive in the Ashoka garden, resided.
Meeting Sita
Hanuman stood before her, hands folded. Initially, Sita did not recognize him, but when she did, her face lit up with a heavenly smile. This pleased Hanuman, and he spoke: “O mother, please accept my greetings. The victorious Ramachandra is hale and hearty, surrounded by Lakshmana and Sugriva. He has vanquished the enemy, killing Ravana. The invaluable help from Vibhishana, the courage of Lakshmana, and the sincerity of the Vanaras made our success possible. It is my splendid fortune to bring you this joyful news. Rama feels immensely lucky that you, his faithful and brave consort, have survived the ordeal. Vibhishana will soon be here to greet you.”
Sita’s Response
Sita, thrilled at the news, stood up, but sadness quickly returned. “Why are you silent and gloomy, O mother?” queried Hanuman. “O gentle Hanuman! I cannot express how delighted I am at the news you have brought. However, I feel saddened that I cannot find a reward worthy enough for you,” Sita replied.
Hanuman responded, “Mother! Your kind words are my greatest reward. I had the opportunity to behold Ramachandra after his victory. What could be more elevating?” Sita praised him affectionately. Suddenly, Hanuman cast a stern look at the demonesses who guarded Sita and, filled with anger, said, “If you permit me, I would very much like to crush these creatures to death, for they must have tormented you!”
Mercy and Duty
But Sita replied, “Child! They were slaves of Ravana, forced to obey their master’s orders. I have no complaints against them, despite their unkindness towards me.” Hanuman noted her worthiness as Ramachandra’s consort and respected her wish not to harm her tormentors. “Now, mother, what message do you have for Ramachandra?” he asked. “I am eager to see him,” Sita said.
The Reunion
Hanuman hurried back to Rama and reported, “I have met her for whom we crossed the sea and battled the demons. She is delighted and eager to meet you, O master!” Rama’s eyes moistened, and he sat quietly, lost in a dilemma. Sita had been Ravana’s prisoner for so long. What would the world say if he accepted her without hesitation? Yet, how could he turn away from her, knowing she was innocent?
After some time, Rama instructed Vibhishana, “You may direct the palace maids to help Sita prepare for her arrival.” Vibhishana promptly went to the palace to ensure Sita received the finest treatment. Yet, Sita insisted that she wished to meet Rama as she was. At Vibhishana’s repeated request, she finally allowed the maids to prepare her for the journey.
Amidst Friends
After the maids had finished their work, the demon-bearers carried Sita in a golden palanquin to Rama’s camp, following Vibhishana. “O Rama, Sita Devi has arrived!” announced Vibhishana. Rama, momentarily unmindful of Vibhishana’s words, raised his head only when Vibhishana repeated them, asking him to bring Sita to his presence.
Vibhishana ordered the palace guards to clear the area of Vanaras, but Rama intervened, saying, “Vibhishana! Are these soldiers not our friends, who did everything possible to rescue Sita? Why should they be denied seeing her?” Lakshmana and Sugriva felt it awkward for Rama to meet Sita amidst a crowd, questioning why he appeared so grave.
Silent Heartache
Sita appeared before Rama, shyly following Vibhishana. Overwhelmed with joy at the sight of Rama, she could only muster a few words, as the crowd intimidated her. Yet, Rama remained silent, maintaining a melancholic tone as he said, “Sita! We fought fiercely to rescue you and avenge the humiliation wrought upon us. Hanuman traced you with his daring journey, and with the devoted help of many, I have crushed the proud demon-tyrant.”
While Sita hoped for kind words of consolation, Rama offered none. His response filled her heart with sorrow, leaving her stunned and in tears as she absorbed his words, reverberating with the weight of a hundred thunders. She had hoped for happiness and peace after her captivity, but Rama’s sentiments shattered that hope.