Ayodhya Kaanda
94 - Bharata on his way to Citrakuta
Chaupais
Description
One woman lovingly said to another, "Friend, can they be Rama and Laksmana or not? Their age, constitution, complexion and comeliness of form are the same, dear companion; their amiability and affection are also similar and their gait too resembles that of Rama and Laksmana. Only their dress is not the same and they are not accompanied by Sita, my friend; and an army complete in its four limbs (viz., horse and foot, elephants and chariots) is marching before them. Moreover, they do not wear a cheerful countenance and their heart is heavy with sorrow. This difference makes me doubt their identity with Rama and Laksmana, O friend." Her argument appealed to the rest of the women; they said, "There is none so clever as she." Applauding the latter and admiring the truth of her remarks another woman spoke in sweet accents. She lovingly narrated the whole episode as to how the festivities in connection with Sri Rama's installation had been obstructed. She then began to praise Bharata's amiability, affection, genial disposition and goodluck.