Ayodhya Kaanda
103 - Dialogue between king Janaka and his wife; Bharata's glory
Chaupais
Description
When the king heard of Bharata's conduct, which was rare as a combination of gold with fragrance or as nectar extracted from the moon,* the king closed his tearful eyes and a thrill ran through his body as he broke out into ecstatic praises of his bright glory. "Listen attentively, O fair-faced and bright-eyed lady; the story of Bharata loosens the bounds of worldly existence. Religion, statecraft and an enquiry about Brahma (the Infinite) are domains to which I have some access according to my own poor lights. But thought acquainted with these subjects, my wits cannot touch the shadow of Bharata's glory even by trick, much less describe it. To Brahma (the Creator), Lord Ganapati (Ganesa) Sesa (the king of serpents), Lord Siva, Sarada (the goddess of learning), seers, sages and wise men and others who are clever in judgment, the story, fame, doings, piety, amiability, goodness and unsullied glory of Bharata are delightful to hear and appreciate. They surpass the celestial stream in purity and even nectar in taste.