Ayodhya Kaanda
87 - Dialogue between the sage Vasistha and Bharata; Bharata prepares for a journey to Citrakuta in order to bring Sri Rama back to Ayodhya
Chaupais
Description
Whatever rites Bharata performed for the benefit of his father (in the other world) were more than a hundred thousand tongues could recount. Then, after determining an auspicious date the great sage (Vasistha) came and summoned all the ministers as well as the elite of the city. They all repaired to the council chamber and sat there. The two brothers, Bharata and Satrughna, were also sent for. Vasistha seated Bharata by his side and spoke to him words full of wisdom and piety. First of all the great sage repeated the whole story of Kaikeyi's wily doing and paid his tribute to the vow of piety and truthfulness of King Dasaratha, who remained true to his love even at the cost of his life. And as the great hermit spoke of Sri Rama's virtues, amiability and kind disposition tears came to his eyes and a thrill ran through his body. Again, when he extolled the affection that Laksmana and Sita bore (towards Rama), the enlightened sage was overwhelmed with grief and emotion.