Ramayana_VOLUME V with index

Sumantra
throw light on the mystery hanging over the tragic events in the
Capital. He tried various means to draw Sumantra to giving him
an account of the happenings. But Sumantra did not like to speak
on them. He thought Bharatha and Satrughna had already been
told what had happened by those whom they had met before his
arrival. (RKRV Part I p. 404 405)
Sumantra gives the message of Dasaratha death to
Lakshmana
He drew Lakshmana near him and told him the fact. Feeling that
it would be better that Lakshmana be informed more fully, he
requested Sumantra, the loyal Minister of the Line, to relate to
him the details and also the facts regarding administration of
Ayodhya. At this, Sumantra fell down unable to bear the burden
of grief. Struggling to rise he said amidst sobs, “Lakshmana!
Where can we have Dasaratha hereafter He was reduced to
ashes by the flames of sorrow at being separated from Rama, Sita
and you. Ayodhya has become a jungle. Wherever you look, you
see only sorrow. Whatever you hear, you hear only wailing. Not
merely men, even birds and animals cast off their lives when you
left. Those who survive are keeping alive in the hope of your
return.” Hearing this, Lakshmana shed streams of tears. He stood
like a stump, unable to reply. (RKRV Part I p.445)
RAMA RETURNS FROM EXILE
Bharatha collected the sages, the scholars, the preceptors, the
leading citizens and the four Sections of the Armed Forces, and
with the three Queens and Ministers led by Sumantra, he walked
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