Sita!!

 It’s a winter afternoon. Two men were hiding behind the tree observing kids play in front of an Ashram. One of them clearly in tears, other gazing them in silence. The silent one says, “Brother, I can see our childhood in them. Lava clearly has inherited your archery skills.” No response. “Brother!”, he called out concerned. “Lakshmana! I would like to see Sita before we go” They tiptoe around the trees towards a hut. As they are about to enter, a voice calls them out from behind the tree. “I wish not to see you here” The voice unmistakably Sita’s. They can see her shadow near the door.

  “Sita! It’s so great to hear your voice again. How are you?” asks Rama. Sita says, “I am doing well. How is everyone in Ayodhya?” “Our days are filled with sorrow. Not a day goes by without us thinking about you”, replied Rama. Sita says, “it’s good to hear you but, please leave immediately”

Rama responds, “I never got to talk to you before you left. All I can say is that I merely discharged my duty as the protector of law. You can never understand the anguish I had been through to make the decision. But, it is my duty to uphold the dharma.” His voice clearly trembling. “Any respectable judicial system gives the accused a chance to defend herself. You didn’t give me the opportunity. When Ahalya was cursed to become a rock due to no mistake of her own, Gautama Maharishi showed her a way to get out of misery through you. But, despite knowing my innocence, you condemned me to a punishment without giving me a recourse. Which school of justice taught you that?”

  “I tried to argue your case in the council. But, the council of scholars decided that it is wise to send you away. I could not make an exception for you. That would set a very bad precedent.” Rama pleaded. “Women are extremely vulnerable during pregnancy. That is the time when they require great support from the family. I was banished from the kingdom in such a turbulent time. Which council will make such a decision? I know. A council without women. A council without women making decisions for women”

  “I am sorry Sita. Can’t you excuse me at least as a husband?” There was a long silence. “I love you”, she whispered. “You’re there in my every thought and my every action. I see you in Lava and Kusa. Husband and wife are like two wheels of a relationship. If one fails, the entire vehicle falls. You made a decision on our relationship without asking me. If you told me your decision, I would’ve gladly left. I wish you had trusted me more”

  Time passed between them. One could hear other’s presence. That seemed like an oasis in the desert for both of them who longed for each other. But finally, the two men departed as the darkness descended

(You can read the first part at https://rohitkuppili.blogspot.com/2021/10/rama-and-vashishta.html)

 

PS: The story is my imagination and views are personal