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15. Importance of Respect

and Courtesy

Dashrath had given a word to Kaikeyi and to keep his word
he had to fulfill Kaikeyi’s demand. She had demanded her
son Bharat to be coronated as the King of Ayodhya and not
Rama. Dashrath did accordingly.

After doing so, he called Rama and informed him about
the unexpected occurring. At that crucial moment, Rama
immediately replied, “Father ! You do not need to ask me or
inform me because you are the owner of the state. The owner
can give his belonging to whomsoever he wishes. Even if you
give the kingdom to some soldier, it is absolutely acceptable
to me. I am delighted to know that my brother Bharat is to be

coronated as the King. I am happy that you cleared yourself
off Kaikeyi’s debt.

It is a good son’s responsibility to ensure that father’s debt
is cleared even after his demise. But you cleared your debt
while living. Being a loyal son, I am really happy even if I
had to sacrifice my happiness for its sake.”

Who speaks all this ? The courtesy and overflowing respect
in Rama’s heart for Dashrath.

Similarly, Sita also possesses and exhibits exceptional respect
and courtesy towards her savior, King Vajrajangha. Then it is
obvious that the King is affectionate towards her and does not
harbour jealousy towards her sons’ growth and progress.
15. Importance of Respect and Courtesy 79