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
Clinging to this body born of Kaikeyi, my wretched life is exceedingly unfortunate. When life has been dear to me even though I have been torn from my beloved brother, I shall have much to see and hear yet. Kaikeyi has sent Laksmana, Rama and Sita into exile and has done a good turn to her husband by despatching him to the abode of immortals; she has taken widowhood and infamy upon herself and bestowed grief and affliction on the people; and to me she has allotted happiness, good reputation and a thriving kingdom; in this way she has served the interests of all. I cannot expect greater good than this at present; over and above that you proclaim your intention to crown me king. Since I have been born into this world through Kaikeyi's womb this is not at all unbecoming of me. God Himself has accomplished everything for me; why, then, should you all as well as the people help my cause?