BEWARE OF DOGS

The Rajyam of Ayodhya was well-known for giving justice to all living things, regardless of caste, creed, or stature.

Nevertheless, Rama was always more of an exception than all the previous Kings combined. While this is mentioned in Valmiki’s Ramayana, reading it in its whole reveals both the hidden truth and also the light humor of the wise poet.

At Rama’s palace, a dog once rang the ‘help bell.’ Perplexed that a dog had rung the bell, the guards mistook the situation and chased the animal away. The dog, intent on getting its King’s attention, tried ringing the bell each day with unwavering perseverance.

It eventually reached Rama. He called the dog in by reaching out to him personally. His ministers and the curious people in attendance filled the courtroom.

“I have noticed that you are making a lot of effort to get my attention, faithful animal. Additionally, I have realized that you are in pain and have come to my court to ask for justice.Pray tell me what you want. I will acknowledge your speech if it has truth.”

“Rama, you are renowned throughout the world for your steadfast love for everyone,” the dog said.

“You cannot distinguish between animals and humans.You are unique because of this aspect about you. I reside close to the temple on the streets. Nobody is harmed by me. Periodically, I receive leftover rice by kind people.That is how I have made a life. I don’t hurt anyone, I stay to myself, and I don’t mock charge or growl at people.

This man, who is a key component of your government, frequently throws stones at me,” the dog pointed to the minister in the court.

“I decided to ignore it all, conveying the impression that humans are inherently dangerous. However, he struck me with a bamboo stick a few days ago. He seemed to take pleasure in hurting animals, even though I know I didn’t hurt him in any way.”

The whole audience was stunned and curious about what would happen next.

Rama rose from his throne and bowed down to the dog. “Dear faithful animal, the punishment for the same will be as you desired,” saying so, he put the dog’s paw on his palm.

The dog announced in the blink of an eye, “King, appoint him as the administrative head of the temple on the hill. That’s the appropriate penalty for this wicked man.”

Rama appointed him as the head of administration as promised.

Curiously, Rama added before ending the counsel, “The man had sinned, but you considered giving him a higher post.Why would you act in such way?”

The dog exclaimed as it laughed, “Dear King, I was the temple’s administrative officer in my prior life.I lost myself in the post because of my conceit. I made multiple mistakes in commission. I have upset decent people. My post’s impact made me arrogant. It’s the outcome that has made me a street dog in this birth.”

That seemed like the perfect way to punish your minister—he would suffer in the next birth for his sins.

So the closing remarks of Valmiki are;

Even if you achieve great success in life, isn’t it crucial to be aware of who you are? I suppose that majority of us will never get it. But for those hurt by the deeds of people in positions of authority, keep in mind the dog story—you never know when you might find yourself feeding it!

WRITTEN BY ANITHA CHAKRAVARTHY SRIRAM