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
My good lies in the service of Sri Rama, although I have been deprived of that privilege through my mother's perversity. I have pondered in my heart and realized that my good lies in no other way. Of what account is this kingdom, which is nothing but an abode of sorrow, when the feet of Laksmana, Rama and Sita are no longer to be seen? A load of jewels is of no use without clothes; an enquiry about Brahma (the Absolute) is of little use without dispassion; abundant enjoyments are of no use to a diseased body; of little use are Japa (muttering of prayers) and Yoga (exercises of mind-control) without devotion to Sri Hari. A handsome body is of no use without life and all I have is naught without the Lord of Raghus. Grant me leave to go where Rama is; my good exclusively lies in this. And if you urge that you seek your own good by crowning me king, you say so only through ignorance caused by affection."