SYNOPSIS- Satyan 4 - Impartial King

In the intervening period, Sage Ananya met his parents and said, “Maharaj, it is too early to say whether your son has inculcated all of your upright qualities.  However, I can say with reliance that he is a noble and honest soul having appreciable dedication to his work.  He is soft spoken and does not reveal his feelings so easily.” 

Vasudev and his wife gave a nod in understanding and thanked the sage for his efforts.  Just then Rishabd entered the chamber.  His hair was released from the lock in which it was matted in all these years.  He had now donned rich princely robes with sparkling jewellery and looked every bit a Prince in the prime of his youthful days. 

The sage spent some time with them and then took his leave after advising the Prince to follow in the footsteps of his father. Thereafter, the parents were with their son for a long time and learnt his experiences in the ashram.

As days passed by the Prince began to help his father in managing the kingdom affairs.  Vasudev observed him very keenly for he wanted to see how his son fared in this department.  He also got an opportunity to learn how much his son loved him when he once became indisposed.  Rishabd was unduly worried and did not leave his father even for a moment during this period.  Even the assurance given by the physician that the King would be normal within a couple of days failed to appease the Prince.  It was only when Vasudev recovered completely that he heaved a sigh of relief and his face lit up with a smile!  Vasudev was touched at this affection of his son.  He embraced Rishabd and told him that more than the medicine it was his prayers and care that had ensured his speedy recovery.    He also advised his son that ups and downs were a part of life and one should not lose hope and start panicking during adverse situations. 

Manorama, too was proud to witness the great care that her son had taken of his father during his brief illness.  She was also impressed with his leadership qualities and firmly believed that he, too, would prove to be a great King like his father.

A couple of years went by.  One day King Bharadwaj, Chitralekha and Vasu came on a visit.  Vasudev’s joy knew no bounds to see them.  He welcomed them inside and took them to his chambers.  Age had begun to show on the elderly couple.  Not only had their hairs completely greyed but there were a few wrinkles visible in their faces and neck.  Still, they looked quite agile and lively which gladdened Vasudev’s heart. 

Five years ago, Bharadwaj had handed over the reins of leadership to his son.  Although he and his Queen desired to go to the forest, Vasu implored them to stay with him.  They were now the proud grandparents of a boy and a girl who were now away in the ashram getting education.  

As Vasudev enquired about their well-being, the King replied, “We are fine, O Satya!”.

Informing him about the status of his friends the King continued, “They too are moving along nicely with their lives.  Hari continues to win accolades for his beautiful drawings which, as you are aware, have made him quite an eminent figure in the kingdom.  Sridhar is now the ashram physician of Sage Amegha and he is enjoying his job immensely.”

Vasudev had news of Shiva who now taught singing to, not one, but several students. 

After being with his parents for a few hours, Vasu took his leave.  His parents were to stay with Vasudev for a few days.  Later when Vasudev was alone with the King and the Queen, he spoke his mind, “Long ago there occurred an event which I would like to share with you.”  He, thereby, told them about the incident when one of his senior ministers, Vinayat, had spread a rumour about him after Sage Badrinath’s visit.  “….Till that time, I had not spared any thought about my successor.  It could be because there was still ample time left for that.  However, when I thought over this, I did feel that Vinayatji was right.  When I lead a principled life, it is also important that I adhere to these same principles when it comes to choosing my successor.  After all, this kingdom is not my personal property.  Thus, it is incumbent upon me to be impartial and choose such a person who is most suitable for this job.

All this while I have been observing the way my son is managing the kingdom affairs.  He was slow in picking up things but now gradually he has learnt to handle all matters with honesty and adeptness.  In fact, I can conclude that he has become as capable in his job as my most able minister, Abharan.  I tried to figure out who is better but could not get an answer!  Abharan is no doubt several years older to my son but he is still young and has a long way to go before he reaches the age that I have kept as a bar for calling it a day.  Thus, when they are equally capable of looking after my people, why reward only one of them with the crown?  I want them to share this responsibility which I feel would also be good for a better and effective administration.”

 “Satyan!” Bharadwaj spoke with concern, “I hope that you have thought over this even from Manorama’s point of view.  As a mother, she must be having her own aspirations for her son.  She may not like if her son is made to share the throne with anyone!” 

Chitralekha promptly agreed with her husband.

Vasudev smiled at his King, “If Manorama has a different opinion I am ready to consider it provided it is in accordance to dharma.  She should not let her personal ambitions and emotions come in the way of this matter.  She would have to think impartially.  I expect this even from my son.”

Bharadwaj nodded thoughtfully and then gently touched Vasudev’s hand.  “Satya, this is a sensitive issue and I just want you to tread very cautiously.  I hope you understand.” 

“I do, Maharaj.  I appreciate your concern.”  So saying Vasudev took his leave. 

Bharadwaj looked at the Queen and observed a feeling of guilt in her face.