Rama Katha Rasa Vahini - Post 12

Dileepa called together his ministers, scholars, and sages and

communicated to them his intention to celebrate the Coronation and marriage of his son; they wholeheartedly agreed and the two functions were held in great pomp. The father then gave the Prince, valuable advice on administration emphasizing the need to promote the study of the Vedas and the fostering of scholars learned in Vedic lore, and lay down laws that will promote popular well-being. After this, he moved into the forest, with the queen, bent on acquiring the Grace of God.

Emperor Raghu ruled the kingdom from that day in accordance with the directives given by the pundits and with the twin objectives: the happiness of his subjects and the promotion of righteous living. He believed that these two are as vital as breath, and he spared no pains in pursuing these ideals, and making his ministers too adhere to the path. Though young, he was rich in virtue. 

However tough a problem happened to be, he grasped it quick and discovered the means of solving it; he made his subjects happy and contented. Wicked kings were taught severe lessons by him. He won them over by peaceful approach and clever diplomatic tactics, or by fielding a little army in order to win them over, or openly breaking with them and defeating them on the field of battle.

He was engaged in activities that ensured the welfare of the people and promoted the culture enshrined in the Vedas. All classes of people extolled his rule, irrespective of age, economic status, or attainments. They said he was proving himself superior to his father in physical prowess, courage, righteous conduct and compassion. Eyeryone said that he brought lasting significance to the name he bore.

Raghu paid special attention to the care and comfort of the hermits engaged in asceticism in the forests; he saw to it that they were saved from harassment and himself supervised the arrangements for assuring them protection and encouragement. So, he received their blessings and grace in ample measure.

One day, the student-hermit, Kautsu, disciple of Varathanthu, came to the Court after finishing his studies. He prayed to the King to help him in securing the Thanks Offering which he had to submit to his preceptor. Raghu gave him the money that he wanted. 

Kautsu was happy that the gift he received was pure, collected from the people without causing them any distress, and paid by them gladly and gratefully, for Raghu did not collect even a paisa more than was absolutely needed, as he was ever afraid of the anger of God. 

The money was also handed over with great love and consideration, and so, Kautsu was overwhelmed by joy and gratefulness. His heart was full and he spoke lovingly to the King, "May you be blessed soon with a son Who will achieve world-wide fame". With this, he left the presence of the ruler.

Love.