The Ramayana, one of the greatest epics in Hindu tradition, presents multiple ideal characters who exemplify righteousness (dharma), devotion, and duty. Among them, Bharata and Shatrughna, brothers of Lord Rama and Lakshmana, play significant but distinct roles. Both were princes by birth, destined to rule, yet their actions and personalities contrast in many ways.
While Shatrughna is often portrayed as a loyal yet relatively silent figure, Bharata emerges as a uniquely ideal character, often considered second only to Rama in his commitment to dharma. This analysis explores why Bharata is viewed as more ‘ideal’ than Shatrughna despite both being kings and royal brothers, focusing on their roles, virtues, and contributions to the Ramayana’s moral and philosophical depth.
1. Bharata’s Supreme Sense of Dharma vs. Shatrughna’s Silent Loyalty
Bharata is often seen as the epitome of righteousness (dharma), whereas Shatrughna embodies obedience and service.
Bharata’s Unique Adherence to Dharma
- When Bharata learned that his mother, Kaikeyi, had exiled Rama and secured the throne for him, he was deeply pained.
- He vehemently rejected the throne, considering it an act of injustice against Rama.
- Unlike Shatrughna, who was also pained but did not act independently, Bharata actively fought against his own benefit to uphold what was right.
- His journey to Chitrakoot to persuade Rama to return is a defining moment, showcasing his selflessness, moral clarity, and deep love for Rama.
- Even when Rama refused to return, Bharata chose to rule Ayodhya as Rama’s regent, symbolizing that the kingdom rightfully belonged to Rama.
Shatrughna’s Quiet Devotion
- Shatrughna, while a noble and devoted brother, does not take independent moral action like Bharata.
- His strongest moment in the Ramayana is when he punishes Manthara (Kaikeyi’s maid) for her role in Rama’s exile, which is an emotional reaction rather than a conscious act of upholding dharma.
- Unlike Bharata, who questions and actively resists injustice, Shatrughna remains a silent follower, accepting events as they unfold.
Thus, Bharata’s active participation in maintaining dharma makes him a more ideal character than Shatrughna, who represents passive devotion.
2. Bharata’s Renunciation of the Throne vs. Shatrughna’s Rule Without Conflict
Bharata’s Selfless Abdication
- Bharata could have easily accepted the throne without opposition, yet he rejected power for moral reasons.
- He lived as a hermit in Nandigram for 14 years, ruling Ayodhya as Rama’s representative by placing Rama’s sandals (Padukas) on the throne.
- His rule was marked by extreme discipline, sacrifice, and humility, making him an ideal king who ruled without attachment to power.
Shatrughna’s Later Rule Over Mathura
- Shatrughna later became the ruler of Mathura, taking over from Lavanasura, a demon.
- While this was a noble act, it did not involve moral dilemmas or internal struggles like Bharata’s renunciation.
- Shatrughna’s kingship was more conventional, whereas Bharata’s governance was an example of ruling without ruling, making it more philosophically profound.
Thus, Bharata emerges as a greater ideal because he rules not out of ambition but as an act of duty, unlike Shatrughna, whose kingship follows a conventional path.
3. Bharata as a Reflection of Rama vs. Shatrughna as a Shadow of Lakshmana
Both Bharata and Shatrughna were deeply devoted to their elder brothers, but their relationships and roles differ significantly.
Bharata as Rama’s Reflection
- Bharata is often seen as another Rama—a prince who embodies the same virtues but in a different way.
- Rama and Bharata share a unique bond of mutual respect, as shown when Rama tries to convince Bharata to rule, and Bharata refuses out of devotion.
- Valmiki’s Ramayana often parallels their characters, emphasizing that Bharata’s renunciation was as significant as Rama’s exile.
Shatrughna as Lakshmana’s Shadow
- Shatrughna is often depicted as Lakshmana’s companion and support, mirroring his role in Rama’s life.
- However, unlike Lakshmana, who plays a proactive role in Rama’s exile, Shatrughna is largely absent from major events, diminishing his individual significance.
- While Lakshmana is known for unwavering service to Rama, Shatrughna does not have a defining moment that elevates him to the same stature.
Because Bharata parallels Rama in virtue, he has a stronger individual identity than Shatrughna, who is more of an auxiliary figure.
4. Bharata’s Emotional Strength vs. Shatrughna’s Emotional Reaction
Another key difference is how Bharata and Shatrughna handle their emotions in times of crisis.
Bharata’s Composed Suffering
- Bharata suffers deeply from the consequences of his mother’s actions, yet he channels his pain into selfless duty.
- Instead of breaking down, he takes responsibility for Kaikeyi’s misdeeds, even though he had no role in them.
- He chooses penance over privilege, demonstrating unmatched emotional resilience.
Shatrughna’s Impulsive Response
- Upon hearing of Kaikeyi and Manthara’s role in Rama’s exile, Shatrughna loses control and attacks Manthara, an act of raw emotion rather than moral reasoning.
- Unlike Bharata, who transforms his grief into a higher purpose, Shatrughna reacts impulsively but does not play a pivotal role in shaping events.
Thus, Bharata’s ability to turn suffering into virtue makes him a superior moral figure compared to Shatrughna’s reactive nature.
5. Bharata’s Unique Ideal of Leadership and Renunciation
One of the most profound aspects of Bharata’s character is his willingness to rule without personal ambition.
Bharata as an Ideal Leader
- Despite rejecting the throne, Bharata still takes responsibility for the kingdom, proving that true leadership is not about power but service.
- His rule as a caretaker king (with Rama’s sandals as a symbol of true kingship) is a lesson in detachment, humility, and duty.
Shatrughna as a Conventional Ruler
- Shatrughna’s rule over Mathura was necessary but not extraordinary in the way Bharata’s governance was.
- He fulfills his duties without engaging in deeper philosophical or ethical dilemmas like Bharata.
Because Bharata redefined kingship as a form of spiritual service, he represents a higher moral ideal than Shatrughna, whose kingship is conventional rather than revolutionary.
Conclusion: Why Bharata is the More ‘Ideal’ Character
While Shatrughna is noble, loyal, and devoted, he does not undergo the same profound moral challenges as Bharata. The reasons why Bharata is considered a more ideal character include:
- Active Upholder of Dharma – He rejects the throne, making a moral choice rather than simply obeying orders.
- Rule Without Attachment – He governs in Rama’s name, showing detachment from power.
- Reflection of Rama – His character mirrors Rama’s in virtue and self-sacrifice.
- Philosophical Strength – He turns suffering into a higher purpose, unlike Shatrughna’s reactive emotional nature.
- More Prominent Role in the Epic – His actions drive crucial events, unlike Shatrughna, who remains in the background.
Thus, Bharata stands as a rare example of an ideal king, ideal brother, and ideal devotee, making him one of the most revered characters in Hindu tradition, far surpassing Shatrughna in moral and philosophical depth.