Kaikeyi's role and redemption

The contributions of an antagonist, to help achieve our goals in the larger scheme of life, should never be undermined. 

When Ayodhya was lit up to welcome their favourite crown prince Ram, the darkness of amavasya seemed to have engulfed one soul, that of guilt-ridden Kaikeyi.

The last 14 years were more of a vanvaas for her than it was for the trio returning from their exile. She was scorned upon by the whole kingdom and her beloved son for depriving them of their ideal king and blamed for the tragic death of her husband, King Dashrath. The compassionate sympathy of the other two queens felt like salt rubbed on fresh wounds. 

How she had doted on her favoured, eldest son throughout, till one ill-fated day! They both had a special place for each other in their hearts. Their relationship was unique.

In hindsight she couldn’t believe that she, of all people had destroyed their exemplary familial bliss. Mantara had tried to instigate her against Ram multiple times, but in vain. She cursed that vulnerable moment on the eve of his coronation when she fell prey to the poison spewed from Mantara’s tongue. And, that one selfish, devious act of Kaikeyi negated all other moments of affection and adherence to her husband and sons. While leaving for the forest, Ram had sought her blessings without any resentment.

She had felt relieved then but his serene, unperturbed look had haunted her, ever since Dashrath’s death. Dreading the thought of facing them but eagre to seek forgiveness, she joined the others at the main gate. She wished the whispers she had heard of Lord Vishnu being incarnated as Ram to kill evil forces were true; perhaps then his divine benevolence would redeem her karma. 

Ram, Lakshman and Sita came in amidst jubilant cheers, drum beats and showers of flowers. They approached Kaikeyi to seek her blessings; her eyes locked with Ram’s imploringly. She was shocked to see gratitude in them and genuine loving care.

He seemed worried and aware of her turmoil. In that magical moment, she saw no need to seek forgiveness. It suddenly dawned on her that she was blessed to be an important pawn in the game of destiny. And, when Ram embraced her, Kaikeyi’s burden of shame and shackles – all melted away in the form of incessant tears.

She experienced the transformation of Ahalya she had heard about – from hard, heavy lifeless stone to a light, freely breathing human of flesh and blood. She knew she was finally redeemed, in mind and spirit!