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Shri Ram's Lamentation
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hopes, he began to search for her. He tried his best to find her foot-steps; but how could there be foot-steps in that place which was covered with sharp stones, shrubs and grass and which abounded in trees, hills. caves and valleys ? Shri Ram felt helpless.
Just then, Vibhishan said in a humble voice.
“Dear lord! We have searched for Sita in every nook and corner of the forest. We have searched for her in every hill; cave and valley. Yet we have not been able to find any trace of her. Hence, no purpose would be served by our staying here longer."
"Dear Vibhishan! What you say is true. Now, my life also has no purpose. Why should I live when Sita is not with me ?” Shri Ram's eyes welled up with tears. His throat was choked with emotion.
The sun had set. The darkness of the evening slowly spread over the earth and the dark forest grew darker. All sat in the Pushpak and returned to Ayodhya in despair and anguish. The magnificent palace of Ayodhya appeared desolate and deserted. Everyone was in deep grief and anguish.
The next day Shri Ram performed obsequies for Sita. He was in bitter anguish. The whole universe appeared blank to him.
A tremendous change came about in Shri Ram's life. He began to lead a life of absolute renunciation.
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