Where did Lord Ram go first after leaving Ayodhya? This was the main stop of exile
Where did Lord Ram go first after leaving Ayodhya? This was the main stop of exile
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In the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama, the epitome of righteousness, made a profound decision to fulfill his father King Dasharatha's vow. This decision led him to embark on a 14-year exile into the wilderness. Accompanying him were his devoted wife Sita and loyal brother Lakshmana. Leaving behind his birthplace and the kingdom of Ayodhya, Lord Rama's journey unfolded across various landscapes of the Indian subcontinent.

The First Phase of Exile

Learning from Sages

During the 14-year sojourn, Lord Rama engaged with sages and ascetics, imbibing their wisdom and practicing austerities. His interactions extended to diverse communities, from indigenous tribes to forest dwellers, as he worked towards organizing and uplifting Indian society on the path of righteousness. Amidst this, he also confronted and vanquished evildoers.

Wandering Through Bharat

The journey of Lord Rama, as narrated in the Ramayana and corroborated by available evidence, began in Ayodhya and concluded in the distant land of Lanka. Upon completing his exile, he returned to Ayodhya, where he was coronated as the rightful king. Throughout this period, Lord Rama, accompanied by his brother Lakshmana and wife Sita, visited numerous places.

The Stages of Vanvas

First Leg - Crossing Rivers

When Lord Rama set forth on his journey, the entire city of Ayodhya mourned his departure. He left in a chariot driven by Sumitra, but at the banks of the Tamas River, he chose to abandon the chariot. Crossing the river on foot, he continued his journey.

Sacred Confluence at Prayagraj

The next significant stop was Prayagraj, where the trio crossed the Ganga River after traversing from Shringaverpur. This sacred confluence held spiritual significance, and it marked a crucial juncture in Lord Rama's pilgrimage.

Encounter in Chitrakoot

Of the 14 years, Lord Rama spent a substantial part in Chitrakoot, covering a distance of approximately 270 kilometers from Ayodhya. Stories and experts suggest that a significant portion of his exile was spent in and around the jungles of Chitrakoot. Most notably, he walked much of this journey, emphasizing his connection with the land and its people.

Extended Stay in Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot, nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, holds a special place in Lord Rama's exile saga. It is said that he spent around 12 years in and around Chitrakoot, delving into spiritual practices and navigating the challenges of the wilderness.

Further Explorations

From Chitrakoot, Lord Rama continued his journey, accompanied by Sita and Lakshmana. They visited various places, including Tikeriya, Sarbhanga Ashram, Sutikshna Ashram, Amarpatan, Gorasari Ghat, Markandeya Ashram, and Sarangpur, eventually reaching Amaravati.

Culmination at Amarkantak

The final leg of their journey took them to Amarkantak, covering a distance of about 380 kilometers. Amarkantak holds significance as a sacred place, and Lord Rama's pilgrimage further enriched the spiritual tapestry of this region.

Reflections on the Exile

Spiritual Growth

Throughout his exile, Lord Rama not only faced external challenges but also underwent profound internal transformations. His encounters with sages, demons, and the diverse landscape of India molded him into a wise and just ruler.

The Return to Ayodhya

Having fulfilled the 14-year exile, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshmana. The citizens, who had longed for his return, welcomed him joyously. The triumphant homecoming marked the end of a significant chapter in Lord Rama's life.

Coronation and Reclaiming the Kingdom

Upon his return, Lord Rama was rightfully crowned as the king of Ayodhya. The coronation was a grand affair, symbolizing the restoration of righteousness and dharma in the kingdom. The tale of Lord Rama's exile is not just a historical narrative; it carries profound spiritual and moral lessons. His journey, marked by selflessness, devotion, and triumph over adversities, resonates through the ages. Lord Rama's footsteps imprinted on the landscapes of India stand as a testament to the enduring values of righteousness and duty.

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