Why Lakshman didn’t sleep for 14 years





When Rama went to exile with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman for 14 years, Lakshman didn’t sleep throughout the exile period.

You may find this very unreasonable and unbelievable, but it is true!!!


According to the tales, it is said that when Rama, Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughna were born, then like every other child, they all cried and got fine afterwards except Lakshman. Lakshman cried continuously until he was laid down near Rama. From then onwards, it was believed that Lakshman was the shadow of Rama. 
So, when Rama and Sita were going to exile, Urmila (wife of Lakshman) also wanted to go to exile with them. But then, Lakshman made her understand by saying that he wants to take care of his brother Rama and Sita during the exile period, but if she stays with him, he might not be able to perform his duties. Seeing the dedication, she decides not to go with him.

After reaching the forest, Lakshman made a cottage by himself for Rama and Sita .When Rama and Sita were resting in the cottage, Lakshman stayed outside of the cottage and took care of their safety. It is said that when Lakshman was guarding the cottage, Nidra Devi came to him. Lakshman decided to stay awake for 14 years. He requested Nidra Devi, the goddess of sleep, not to give him sleep for 14 years so that he can be awake and guard Rama and Sita .Nidra Devi was impressed with his dedication and granted him the boon.

But, Nidra Devi told him that someone has to take his part of sleep during this 14 years of exile. Lakshman then asked her to give his part of sleep to his wife, Urmila. It was because of this reason that Urmila kept sleeping throughout the 14 years.

When Rama came back to Ayodhya with Sita and Lakshman, Urmila was present there but was in a state of unconsciousness due to the boon by Nidra Devi. Then, Lakshman understood that until he goes to sleep, Urmila won’t be able to regain consciousness from sleep.



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