Ayodhya Kaanda
85 - Arrival and lamentation of Bharata and Satrughna
Chaupais
Description
Observing his son's distress she comforted him like one who applied salt to a burn. "The king, my son, is not fit for lamentation. He not only reaped a rich harvest of merit and renown but enjoyed life also. During his life-time he obtained all the rewards of human existence and in the end ascended to the abode of Indra (the lord of immortals). Pondering thus cease sorrowing and rule the kingdom with all its limbs (such as the army, the exchequer, the ministers and so on)." The prince was utterly dismayed to hear these words as though a festering sore had been touched by a live coal. Recovering himself he heaved a deep sigh and said, "O wicked woman, you have brought complete ruin to our family. If you bore such deep malice, why did you not kill me as soon as I was born? Cutting down the tree you have watered a leaf and you have drained the pond for keeping the fish alive.