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290
JAIN RAMAYAN
of rain we cannot also check these rumours. We cannot silence people. We must hear what people say but take our own decisions. Do not be led away by these rumours. I am sure that this is a conspiracy to besmirch Sita's image but it is as clear as a crystal that Sita is pure and innocent. Her character is sublime. Generally, common people try to pick holes in the affairs of the royal family. They always take delight in denigrating their superiors. Therefore, you just ignore these rumours. You need not punish those wicked fellows who are the originators of these rumours but you must ignore them. You should not take any step against their scandalous gossip."
"Lakshman! You are absolutely right. What you say is true but the way of the world, is the same in every matter. A king should not adopt any policy that is contrary to the will of the people. He has to ignore even truth to respect the will of the people. He has to do so for the welfare of the people."
Lakshman stood stupefied. He had not expected this attitude from Shri Ram. Sugriv and Vibhishan sat with blank minds. They understood the situation fully.
Lakshman began to shake with anger. He stood up and said in an angry voice:
"Dear brother! I do not care for fame or blame. It is absolutely improper to abandon Sita to safeguard the splendid traditions of the Ikshvaku dynasty, as you say. If you do not have the slightest doubt regarding Sita's purity and chastity you need not fear the rumours. If you abandon Sita giving importance to the rumours, what will happen to her? Have you ever thought of the disasters that she will have to face in consequence ? Can Sita ever live even for a moment without you? Can she bear with a separation from you? You ask Hanuman and he will tell you what her condition was in the Devaraman garden. She had given up eating food since she could not bear with the separation from you. It seems Hanuman found it extremely difficult to prevail upon her to end her fast. O king of Ayodhya ! I again and again entreat you not to abandon Sita caring for the words of the people."
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