Ayodhya Kaanda
107 - Dialogue between Sri Rama and Bharata; the gift of sandals; Bharata's farewell
Chaupais
Description
On the morrow, after bathing, the whole assembly met again-Bharata, the Brahmanas and the King of Tirahuta (Mithila). Though knowing at heart that the day was auspicious (for undertaking a return journey to Ayodhya) the tender-hearted Sri Rama hesitated to say so. Sri Rama looked at His preceptor (the sage Vasistha), King Janaka and the assembly; but the very next moment He felt nervous and turned His eyes to the ground. Praising His regard for others' feelings the whole assembly thought that nowhere could one find a master so considerate as Sri Rama. Bharata, who was clever enough to perceive Sri Rama's wish, lovingly rose and imposing great restraint upon himself fell prostrate on the ground. Then, joining his palms, he lovingly said,"My lord, you have granted me all my desires. For my sake everybody has suffered a good deal of trouble and you too have been put to much inconvenience. Now, my lord, give me your permission to leave, so that I may go back to Ayodhya and remain there till your return."