The new generation of the Raghukul dynasty: Luv, Kush, and their brothers
By: Rajendra Kapil
After returning to Ayodhya from exile, Shri Ram devoted himself to both his royal duties and his family life. Everything was progressing harmoniously until one day, an incident sparked widespread controversy.
A washerman, furious with his wife for spending a night away from home due to unforeseen circumstances, rebuked her, saying, “I am not Ram, who would accept a wife who has stayed outside for months.” This remark ignited public criticism, leading Ram to make a difficult decision. With Sita’s consent, he sent her to the hermitage of Sage Valmiki. At the time, Sita was pregnant.
At Valmiki’s ashram, Sita gave birth to twins, Luv and Kush, the next generation of the Raghu dynasty. However, she never revealed their father’s identity. The boys were raised in the hermitage, where they received education in scriptures and warfare under the guidance of Sage Valmiki and Sage Bharadwaj. The villagers came to know Sita as Vandevi (the goddess of the forest), and Luv and Kush as her sons.
The Ashwamedha Yagya and the Encounter with Ram
According to the Valmiki Ramayana, to establish the universal legitimacy of his rule, Shri Ram organized an Ashwamedha Yagya at the request of Sage Vashishtha. As per the ritual, a consecrated horse was sent across the kingdom, signifying Ram’s sovereignty. Any ruler who opposed Ram’s rule could stop the horse and challenge Ayodhya’s supremacy.
When the horse reached Valmiki’s ashram, Luv and Kush, unaware of their lineage, captured it. They had heard about King Ram’s decision to abandon his wife due to public scrutiny and deeply resented it. Their defiance posed a direct challenge to Ayodhya. Initially, Ram sent his soldiers to reclaim the horse, but Luv and Kush defeated them. One by one, Bharat, Lakshman, and Shatrughan were sent to confront them, but none could withstand the valor of these young warriors.
Finally, Ram himself arrived with his army. He patiently listened to their objections and assured them that after the yagya, he would address the matter. This convinced Luv and Kush to release the horse. Later, Sage Valmiki revealed their true identity, leading to an emotional reunion between Ram and his sons.
The Extended Raghu Dynasty
While Luv and Kush are well-known, few are aware of the other sons of Ram’s brothers. The Ramayana briefly mentions them:
- Bharat’s Sons: Taksh and Pushkal
Bharat was married to Mandavi, Sita’s cousin. They had two sons—Taksh and Pushkal. Taksh founded the city of Takshashila (Taxila), a renowned center of learning in ancient India. Pushkal established the kingdom of Pushkalavati near the Indus River and dedicated his life to serving the people. - Lakshman’s Sons: Angad and Chandraketu
Lakshman was married to Urmila, who made great sacrifices during his 14-year exile. Some legends suggest that Urmila remained asleep for 14 years so that Lakshman could stay awake and protect Ram and Sita. Their two sons, Angad and Chandraketu, inherited their father’s bravery and their mother’s spiritual depth. Unfortunately, historical records provide little information about their later lives. - Shatrughan’s Sons: Subahu and Shatrughati
Shatrughan, the youngest of the four brothers, married Shrutakirti, another cousin of Sita. Unlike Lakshman, who devoted his life to Ram and Sita, Shatrughan dedicated himself to Bharat and the administration of Ayodhya.
When the demon Lavanasura, Ravan’s nephew, attacked Ayodhya, Shatrughan led the battle against him. With Ram’s blessings, he defeated Lavanasura and took control of Madhupur (modern-day Mathura). Later in life, he handed over his kingdom to his sons and retired to a life of renunciation. Even today, a temple in Telangana, known as Sri Kalyan Sannidhi Temple, is dedicated exclusively to Shatrughan and Shrutakirti.
A Legacy of Valor and Devotion
Through their strength, wisdom, and governance, the eight sons of Ram and his brothers carried forward the glorious legacy of the Raghu dynasty. Their contributions shaped history and upheld the principles of dharma and righteousness.
A heartfelt tribute to the new generation of the Raghu dynasty!
