Namaste, I Am Rāma, and This Is Rāmāyaṇa

Rama is
adored by all.
He is a sweetnatured,
kindhearted
and
brave prince.
He is a born
leader.
N
amaste. I am RISHI VASISHTHA vasiṣṭha. I am the kulaguru kulaguru
(family priest, teacher and advisor) of the Ayodhya Kings. My wife
Arundhati arundhatī and I are widely recognized as an ideal married couple.
I gave names to King Dasharatha’s sons. The eldest one gets the most
beautiful name ‘Rama’, which means, one who delights all. All four boys have
grown up into handsome princes. They are well-trained in weapons, yoga
yoga, philosophy, and many other subjects.
Bharata and Shatrughna
Lakshmana is
enjoy each other’s company
always around
the most.
with Rama.
3
BĀLA KĀṆḌA
SAMPLE
ONLY
Today, Rishi Vishvamitra viśvāmitra has arrived at King Dasharatha’s court. He wants Prince
Rama to help him kill some demons in his region. The King summons Rama and Lakshmana.
They arrive respectfully.
We find Rama has lost interest in worldly affairs. I start a dialog with Rama r . I answer all his
questions about how the world was created, is sustained, and will finally
come to an end. He wants to know the purpose of life. Rama is a good
listener. He asks only relevant questions.
Rama’s doubts are cleared. He now has a pleasing smile, worthy of his name.
r
RAMA: This episode is not mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana. It is in a separate book, titled ‘Yoga
Vasishtha’. Do remember to read this book when you are grown up. It will help you live a meaningful life.