Why Did Rama Ask Sita to Leave Ayodhya After Coming Back from Lanka?

In the original version of the story, Rama and Sita returned to Ayodhya and were crowned as rulers, living happily ever after. However, in the Valmiki Ramayana, a different narrative unfolds. In this version, Rama did send Sita to the forest after their return from Lanka. This drastic action was necessitated by multiple factors, including societal norms and the principles of Raj Dharma.

The Question of Sita's Purity

The primary reason for Rama's decision was the moral scrutiny surrounding the purity of Sita. One day, a dhobi ( washerman) questioned Sita's character, suggesting she was impure after staying in Lanka for 10 months. This doubt in her purity spread like wildfire in Ayodhya, where the streets were soon teeming with gossip about her character. To address this, Rama, as the socially and morally upright king, had to act decisively to maintain the moral fabric of his kingdom.

The Clash of Royal Duties and Marital Obligations

Rama faced a significant challenge. As a king, his primary duty was to govern righteousness and justice. This duty was encapsulated in Raj Dharma, the laws of governing a kingdom where the king, as the ideal, was expected to set a moral example for his subjects. The morality and purity of the queen were deeply intertwined with the image of the king in the eyes of the populace.

One cannot ignore the fact that the actions of a king have a ripple effect on the entire society. If the subjects had their doubts about the purity of their queen, it would inevitably undermine the basic principles of marriage and family life. This would risk the moral quality of all subjects, leading to a polluted social fabric.

Ram's Priorities and the Promise to King Janaka

Before choosing Sita, Rama had already established his priorities with King Janaka, her father. Rama had promised that he would take care of Sita and provide her with all the pleasures, but within the boundaries of Raj Dharma. This meant that if Sita ever posed a threat to his governing responsibilities, Raj Dharma would take precedence.

From the outset, Rama and Sita were aware of this condition. Sita accepted this arrangement as a part of their understanding, indicating a level of mutual respect and understanding. The drama of their separation was thus not born out of a momentary lapse in judgment but out of a deep-seated concern for the well-being of the kingdom and its subjects.

A Call for Modern Understanding and Empathy

Today, Rama's decision might seem unnecessary and even cruel. However, it is essential to place this action in the context of Satyayuga, the age of truth, where societal norms and moral standards were fundamentally different. Life for a true leader or king was never easy. It was filled with sacrifices and challenges, often hidden behind the glitter of their crown.

Conclusion

The return of Rama and Sita to Ayodhya and the subsequent decision to send Sita to the forest are intricate tales of moral and political complexities. While it might seem harsh in modern times, it was a decision driven by a profound concern for the moral and social order. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of duty, integrity, and the often difficult choices one must make to uphold these values.