On Rama's return to Ayodhya, Dasaratha resolved to install him as Yuvaraja (heir-apparent). But, on the eve of coronation, his favorite wife Kaikeyi, instigated by her wicked nurse Manthara, asked Dasaratha to fulfil the two boons he had granted her earlier. By one boon, she demanded the banishment of Rama for fourteen years into the jungle Dandakaranya, and, by the other, the installation of her own son Bharatha as Yuvaraja. Dasaratha was stunned by these demands and tried his best in an unsuccessful attempt to dissuade her from her wicked demands. But, he was obliged to yield at last. The dutiful son Rama immediately prepared to go into exile accompanied by his beautiful young wife Sita. His devoted brother Lakshmana insisted on accompanying him.
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