Ayodhya Kaanda
92 - Bharadvaja shows hospitality to Bharata
Chaupais
Description
On hearing the sage's words Bharata was troubled at heart; for he was faced with a hard puzzle at a difficult time. Then, realizing the weightiness of an elder's command he adored the sage's feet and replied with joined palms, "Your orders must be respectfully obeyed; this is my paramount duty, my lord." Bharata's reply pleased the great sage (Bharadvaja), who called his trusty servants and pupils by his side. "Bharata ought to be entertained; therefore, go and bring bulbs, roots and fruits." They bowed their heads with the words 'very well, sir!' and most gladly proceeded to take charge of their respective duties. The sage anxiously thought that he had invited a distinguished guest and that a deity must be worshipped according to his or her rank. Hearing of this riches of various kinds (Riddhis) and supernatural powers (Siddhis) like Anima (the power of assuming atomic size) appeared (in a visible form) and said, "We are prepared to do your bidding, O lord."