Kaikeyi resolved it would be better to withhold Rama’s consecration, as the latter would inevitably go into exile for the fulfilment of his promise given to the gods. She instructed Manthara in a low voice: “My friend, I will work out the plan devised by you. Don’t disclose it. Otherwise, Lakshmana will be angry with you.”
Manthara pondered a while whether Kaikeyi’s instruction was just. Presuming that Lakshmana’s anger might befall her she heaved deep and long sighs like a she-serpent, the daughter of Naga. Nevertheless, she found out the way favourable to herself. Quite reasonably, she believed that Kaikeyi’s inner desire of Rama’s exile was dear to Rama. Hence, the anger of a person other than Rama would be ineffective. Assuming her objective almost accomplished, she was greatly delighted.
(5 atheti) On the other hand, Kaikeyi provided strength to the gods like Visnu and Brahman, assuring them assistance, at their request, in fulfilling their desire. Accordingly, she firmly resolved to see to Rama’s banishment for the sake of the gods’ welfare. Thereupon, with her eyebrows raised, the good-tempered Kaikeyi lay down on the floor, keeping her eyes fixed on one point.
Interpretation of Kaikeyi’s action 2.10.1-8
Kaikeyi resolved it would be better to withhold Rama’s consecration, as the latter would inevitably go into exile for the fulfilment of his promise given to the gods. She instructed Manthara in a low voice: “My friend, I will work out the plan devised by you. Don’t disclose it. Otherwise, Lakshmana will be angry with you.”
Manthara pondered a while whether Kaikeyi’s instruction was just. Presuming that Lakshmana’s anger might befall her she heaved deep and long sighs like a she-serpent, the daughter of Naga. Nevertheless, she found out the way favourable to herself. Quite reasonably, she believed that Kaikeyi’s inner desire of Rama’s exile was dear to Rama. Hence, the anger of a person other than Rama would be ineffective. Assuming her objective almost accomplished, she was greatly delighted.
(5 atheti) On the other hand, Kaikeyi provided strength to the gods like Visnu and Brahman, assuring them assistance, at their request, in fulfilling their desire. Accordingly, she firmly resolved to see to Rama’s banishment for the sake of the gods’ welfare. Thereupon, with her eyebrows raised, the good-tempered Kaikeyi lay down on the floor, keeping her eyes fixed on one point.