Shloka 2.45.5
अयोध्यावासिजनानुरागः — The People and Brahmins Follow Rama toward Exile
अवेक्षमाणः सस्नेहं चक्षुषा प्रपिबन्निव।उवाच रामः स्नेहेन ताः प्रजाः स्वाः प्रजा इव।।।।
yā prītir bahumānaś ca mayy ayodhyā-nivāsinām |
mat-priyārthaṃ viśeṣeṇa bharate sā niveśyatām ||
“Citizens of Ayodhyā, the love and honour you have shown toward me—let that, for my sake, be placed especially in Bharata.”
Looking at the people with love as if they were his own children and as thoughdrinking them with his glances, Rama appealed to them:
Dharma here is social stability through rightful allegiance: Rāma redirects public devotion toward Bharata to prevent disorder and to uphold the kingdom’s continuity.
As he leaves, Rāma counsels the citizens to transfer their affection and respect to Bharata, who will govern in his absence.
Selflessness and foresight: Rāma sets aside personal attachment and prioritizes the welfare of the polity.