Ayodhya Kaanda
104 - Dialogue between king Janaka and Bharata; Indra's anxiety; Goddess Sarasvati'ss admonition to Indra
Chaupais
Description
When Bharata heard these words, a thrill ran through his body and his eyes filled with tears. Imposing a great restraint upon himself he said, "My lord, you are dear and worthy of respect to me as my own father; and as regards my family preceptor (the sage Vasistha) my own parents are not so benevolent to me as he." Here is an assembly of sages like Kausika (Visvamitra) as well as of ministers; and today you too, an ocean of wisdom, are present in our midst. Know me to be a mere child and an obedient servant and instruct me accordingly, my master. To think that you should seek my advice in this assembly (of wise men) and at this holy place! Yet if I keep mum I shall be considered black of heart; and if I speak on this occasion it will be sheer madness on my part. Nevertheless I have the impudence to say some thing. Therefore, pray forgive me, father, knowing that Providence is against me. It is fully recognized in the Tantras, Vedas and Puranas, and all the world knows, that the duty of a servant is hard indeed. Duty to a master is incompatible with selfishness. Hatred is blind and love is not discreet.