Sumantra's Plea (5:20)

Sumantra begs Rama to return to Ayodhya

Sumantra, the childhood friend and charioteer of Maharaja Dasharatha, is chosen to escort Sri Rama, Laksmana and Sita devi to the forest to begin Their fourteen-year exile.  After taking his precious charges to the edge of the forest, Sumantra is unable to bear the pain of disappointing his dear friend the king, so when Sri Rama indicates to him that it is time for him to turn back to Ayodhya, this command does not appeal to Sumantra.

He proffers arguments based on his empathy for Dasharatha and his queens.  He pleads with Rama, trying to convince the crown prince to come back with him.  Rama refuses.  He tries to convince Rama to at least send Laksmana back with him.  Rama is unmoved.  He tries to convince Rama to send Sita back with him.  Rama knows that Sita devi will not hear of it.  Rama remains firm in His vow, and supports His brother and wife in Their decision to accompany Him to the forest.  He again asserts that He is duty-bound to help his father keep his word to Kaikeyi.

Sumantra is stunned by the conundrum he faces.  He has two choices.  Either he goes home to Ayodhya with an empty chariot, only to devastate the king and the Queen mothers by reporting that Rama, Laksmana and Sita have actually entered the forest, or he remains in the forest leaving the king and all the Queens and subjects uninformed and wondering what happened.  He is torn by indecision and his heart is breaking.

This instrumental memorializes the painful, heart-rending predicament of Sumantra, the beloved charioteer of King Dasharatha, who after pleading with Rama to change His mind, at last resolves to return home to the desolate city of Ayodhya, bearing the heart-breaking news of the transcendental Threesome's entrance into the forest of Dandaka, far beyond the boundaries of Kosala. 

Track 2  5:20   Sumantra's Plea