Ayodhya Kaanda
84 - The sage Vasistha sends envoys to call Bharata
Chaupais
Description
The sage caused a boat to be filled with oil and had the king's body placed in it (to guard against decomposition); he then summoned envoys and spoke to them thus, "Run quickly and go to Bharata; but break not the news about the king to anyone at any place. Approaching Bharata tell him only this much:" "The preceptor has sent for you two brothers." Hearing the sage's orders the couriers rushed alongwith a speed that would put an excellent steed to shame. Ever since things began to take a vicious turn in Ayodhya evil omens occured before Bharata. He saw fearful dreams at night and on waking indulged in all sorts of unpleasant speculations. He would feast Brahmanas daily and bestow gifts on them. With elaborate ritual he would sprinkle water over an image of Bhagavan Siva and invoking the great Lord in his heart, begged of Him the welfare of his parents, family and half-brothers.