Sumantra was a character in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He was a minister in the court of King Dasharatha of Ayodhya and played an important role in the events leading up to Lord Rama’s exile.
Sumantra’s contributions to the Ramayana include:
- Advising King Dasharatha: Sumantra was one of King Dasharatha’s most trusted advisors and provided counsel on important matters of state. He was respected for his wisdom and intelligence.
- Arranging Lord Rama’s exile: When Kaikeyi, one of King Dasharatha’s queens, asked for Lord Rama to be sent into exile and her own son Bharata to be made king, Sumantra was tasked with arranging the journey. He helped Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana leave Ayodhya and embark on their 14-year exile.
- Supporting Lord Rama: Despite his loyalty to King Dasharatha, Sumantra recognized Lord Rama’s rightful claim to the throne and remained loyal to him throughout his exile. He often visited Lord Rama in the forest and provided him with news and updates from Ayodhya.
- Advising Bharata: After King Dasharatha’s death, Sumantra advised Bharata, who had refused to become king in Lord Rama’s absence, on matters of governance and statecraft. He helped Bharata maintain stability in Ayodhya and ensure the welfare of the people.
Overall, Sumantra was a wise and loyal minister who played an important role in the events of the Ramayana. He remained committed to the welfare of the kingdom and supported Lord Rama throughout his exile, even though it meant going against the wishes of his own king.