Ayodhya Kaanda
106 - Bharata deposits the sacred waters; his perambulation through Citrakuta
Chaupais
Description
In this way Bharata roamed about in the forest; even hermits felt abashed to see his devotion and austerity. The sacred ponds and tracts of land, the birds and beasts, the trees and grasses, the hills, woods and orchards were charming, wonderful and pre-eminently holy. Seeing them all so divine, Bharata asked questions about them; and in reply to them the great sage Atri told him with a glad heart the origin, name, attributes and purifying virtues of each. Taking a dip at one place they made obeisance at another; here they beheld sights that were ravishing to the soul, while there they sat down with the permission of the sage and thought of Sita and the two brothers (Sri Rama and Laksmana). Seeing Bharata's good disposition, affection, and loyal services the sylvan gods gladly gave him their blessing. The third watch of the day would be half spent when the two brothers returned to their camp and gazed upon the lotus-feet of their lord.