Ayodhya Kaanda
108 - Returning to Ayodhya, Bharata enthrones the sandals and takes up his residence at Nandigrama; the virtue of listening to Bharata's story
Chaupais
Description
The sages and other Brahmanas, the Guru (the sage Vasistha), Bharata and King Janaka,-the whole host was mentally disturbed on account of their parting with Sri Rama. Revolving in their mind the numerous virtues of the lord all wended their way in silence. Crossing the Yamuna everyone reached the other bank; the day passed without any food. The next halt was made on the other bank of the Ganga (at Srngaverapura) where Sri Rama's friend (Guha) made all arrangements for their comfort. Ferrying over the Sai they bathed in the Gomati and reached Ayodhya on the fourth day. King Janaka stayed in the capital for four days, looked after the state administration as well as all the state property and, entrusting the reins of government to the ministers, the Guru (the sage Vasistha) and Bharata, he left for Tirahuta (his capital) after making all necessary preparations. Following the preceptor's advice the men and women of the city ensconced themselves in Sri Rama's capital (Ayodhya).