Glorious traditions kept by kings of yore

CHENNAI, OCT. 18. In the ancient system of political administration, it was considered expedient and prudent for a ruler to hand over power to another who is found more intelligent, capable, meritorious and sagacious. This was desirable in the interest of the people and the country. An administrator with lesser excellence should not dominate over others better suited for the throne. Another glorious tradition which existed in olden days was the power being entrusted by the king to his son who had been well-equipped in all spheres. The father indeed felt happy and was proud when he saw his son's (possible successor) popularity. Hearing words of appreciation uttered by people about his son, the king will be more happy.

Again in days of yore, a king was always guided by a team of able ministers who symbolised honesty, integrity and efficiency. It was their duty to tender proper advice, unmindful of the consequences. They were not sycophants or mere yes-men. They were fearless in expressing their views though these may be quite at variance with what the king held or which may provoke him. They were even prepared to die but would not allow blatant mistakes to occur. Thirukkural has a fine couplet on the duty of a minister to offer genuine counsel.

Once a king tested those around him by asking them to quote the price he would fetch if he was sold. Naturally many vied with one another giving fabulous and staggering amounts. One person, however, said he would be worth just a few copper coins. The king got wild, removed the belt and was about to thrash him when the former said, now he would not obtain even the cost of the belt. Sita, when kept captive and when visited by Ravana, wondered whether he had no ministers who could tender candid advice to him not to covet another's wife.

In a lecture, Sri Sukhi Sivam explained how the Ramayana presents the scene brilliantly where Emperor Dasaratha, who admired the accomplishments of Rama and who thought it high time that the burden of sovereignty was lifted off his tired shoulders, convened an assembly of ministers and others to tell them of his choice of Rama as the heir to throne. ``Old and infirm, I yearn for peace and rest. I am not aware of anyone worthier than Rama to succeed me. However, the final decision rests with you''. The ministers' unanimous view was conveyed through Sumantra, the chief among them. Then Dasaratha turned to his preceptor, Vasishta, who had the final say.

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