The episode about Lakshmana not eating food during the exile period in the Ramayana is a remarkable tale that highlights his unparalleled dedication and sacrifice. This story found in Bengali Krittibasi Ramayana is often cited to explain how Lakshmana, who killed Indrajit (Meghanada), managed to fulfill the prophecy that only someone who had not eaten for 14 years could defeat him.
Context and Background
Lakshmana's Oath of Service: When Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana were exiled to the forest for 14 years, Lakshmana vowed to serve his elder brother Rama and protect Sita. His dedication was so profound that he chose to remain constantly vigilant, forsaking sleep and personal comfort.
Indrajit's Prophecy: Indrajit, the mighty son of Ravana, was invincible in battle due to his boons and penance. One prophecy stated that Indrajit could only be killed by a warrior who had not eaten or slept for 14 years. Lakshmana, with his unparalleled commitment, met this criterion without even realizing it.
The Discovery of Lakshmana's Fast
As the sages in Ayodhya and even Lord Rama wondered how Lakshmana could have possibly gone without food for 14 years, an interesting narrative unfolds:
Daily Routine in Exile: During their exile, it was customary for Lakshmana to collect fruits and divide them into three portions. He would offer a portion each to Rama and Sita, while also setting aside a portion for himself. However, Lakshmana never consumed his share unless specifically instructed by Rama.
Rama's Inquiry: After returning to Ayodhya, when the sages narrated the events of the exile and the great deeds performed, the question of Lakshmana's fast came to the forefront. Rama, curious about this, asked Lakshmana to explain how he survived without food.
Lakshmana’s Explanation
Lakshmana revealed the truth behind the mystery:
Implicit Obedience: Lakshmana explained that throughout their exile, he adhered strictly to Rama's commands. Rama would tell him to take the fruits but never explicitly commanded him to eat them. Out of devotion and obedience, Lakshmana refrained from eating unless Rama specifically instructed him to do so.
Fruits Left Uneaten: To substantiate his claim, Rama asked Lakshmana to fetch the fruits from their hut in the forest. Lakshmana easily located the stored fruits, which confirmed his story. When counted, they found that there were enough fruits to account for nearly the entire period of exile, minus a few days.
Seven Days Without Food: Lakshmana then accounted for the days when he did not gather or eat fruits:
- Day 1: The day they received the news of King Dasharatha’s demise. Grief-stricken, they did not think of food.
- Day 2: The day Sita was abducted by Ravana. The shock and despair left them with no desire to eat.
- Day 3: The day they were bound by the magical snakes of Indrajit in the battle. They were incapacitated and unable to eat.
- Day 4: The day Indrajit created a magical illusion of killing Sita. The overwhelming distress prevented them from eating.
- Day 5: The day Mahiravana, Ravana's brother, captured Rama and Lakshmana. They were held captive and couldn't access food.
- Day 6: The day Lakshmana was grievously injured by Ravana's weapon in battle. He was incapacitated and unable to fetch or eat fruits.
- Day 7: The day Ravana was finally defeated. In their joy and celebration, they forgot about food.
Mastery Over Hunger
Lakshmana also mentioned that during their earlier time with Sage Vishwamitra, both he and Rama had learned the mantra of controlling hunger and sleep. This knowledge enabled Lakshmana to maintain his fast without succumbing to the physical need for sustenance.
Conclusion
Lakshmana’s story is a testament to his unwavering loyalty and extraordinary discipline. His ability to go without food for the entire period of exile, only broken by the most extreme circumstances, demonstrates his unique dedication to serving Rama. This narrative not only highlights his role in defeating Indrajit but also emphasizes the profound spiritual and moral dimensions of his character in the Ramayana.