𝐑𝐀𝐔𝐃𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐇Ā𝐕𝐀

CHAPTER 51

Dhisana curiously looked around the great theatre as Manvendra took her inside. She had never entered this side of the Gajasaharya palace, for most of her days were spent grieving in her room or in the garden.

Now that she saw it, the magnificent architecture, intricate details, and opulent decor created a magical atmosphere that left her in a state of wonder.

Its ornate architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and gilded details, mesmerized her as she took in every awe-inspiring detail. The ceiling was a masterpiece of its own, painted with scenes from scriptures and history, its colors creating a breathtaking panorama that seemed almost alive.

The chandeliers hung majestically from above, illuminating the auditorium with a soft and enchanting glow beneath which each seat was meticulously arranged.

She was so busy looking around the theatre that she didn't realise Manvendra was still holding her hand, guiding her way through the steps.

"Take a seat." Manvendra said as they reached in front of the stage.

Dhisana sat down beside her husband and looked at the red curtains.

"How will this give me my answers ?" She asked.

"Dhisaney, story of Ram Chandra Bhagwaan has all the answers related to the ideal way of life." Manvendra said, "Just have patience." He smiled.

Dhisana could see who his eyes were glistening with a sense of excitement, almost childlike. It was as if he was more eager than her to watch the tale of Shri Ram being presented. And why not ? He was a devotee of Narayan, Ram Katha was bound to be his favourite.

Soon the curtains were pulled away, the sutradhaar came on the stage and after chanting a small prayer for the well being of all, and then he addressed them both.

"Greetings to the Kurukumar and Kuru-kulvadhu !" He said with a bow, "You being here to witness the tale of Raghav, is testimony to what Brahma had said to Valmiki, that as long as the mountains and rivers endure upon this earth, the tale of Ramayan will be told among people." He said.

"THIS IS UNCHARACTERISTIC OF A KSHATRIYA RAJAN ! YOU MUST NOT FORSAKE THE PATH OF RIGHTEOUSNESS !" An angry boomed from the side of the stage, from where came two actors, one dressed as a king joining his hands in front of the one who was dressed a sage.

"Oh it seems like Brahmarishi Vishwamitra has become angry on Chakravarti Dashrath." The sutradhaar said.

"Brahmarishi, please understand my dilemma. My son Ram is not even 16 yet ! How can he fight terrible Rakshasas like Marich and Subahu who are allies of Ravan ?" The actor in the role of Dashrath.

And so did the play continue, Dhisana watched it observantly while Manvendra sat there amused and excited as one after the other events unfolded.

"But Gurudev, wouldn't killing Tadka, a woman be unrighteous ?" The actor playing Ram asked.

"Pay attention to this dialogue." Manvendra whispered to her, while on the stage Vishwamitra was about to give a teaching to Shri Ram and Lakshman.

"You must harbour neither disgust nor doubt about killing a woman like Tadka. Being a prince, you must do what is in the interest of all your subjects. For a king, the protection and welfare of his citizens must be paramount. For the sake of his people, a king should be willing to undertake any kind of action, be it harsh or gentle, virtuous or apparently sinful. This is indeed the dharma ordained for all those entrusted with the responsibility of ruling kingdoms. So, hesitate not. Eliminate adharma by killing this rakshasi. There is not an iota of dharma in her." Said the actor playing Vishwamitra in a booming voice.

'So this is Rajdharma ?' Dhisana thought.

And she watched more and more events unfurl in the tale, the concept and it's nuances got more and more clear to her.

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A/N

A small chappy, but important one ✨