Ayodhya Kaanda
97 - Bharata takes a dip in the Mandakini and arrives at Citrakuta; Bharata and others meet one another, mourn the kingís death and perform his Sraddha (obsequies)
Chaupais
Description
Whether He shuns me as one possessing a black heart or welcomes me as his own servant, my only refuge are Sri Rama's shoes; he is really a noble master while the whole blame lies with his servant (myself). The only beings deserving of fame in the world are the Cataka bird and the fish, who are clever in keeping ever fresh their vow of fidelity and love." Revolving these thoughts in his mind he went on his journey, his whole body rendered powerless by diffidence and affection. The sinful act of his mother (Kaikeyi) dragged him back as it were; while the strength of his devotion pressed him forward, foremost among the resolute as he was. Whenever he thought of Sri Rama's good nature his feet moved quickly along the way. Bharata's gait at that time resembled the movements of a water-fly carried along a stream. Seeing Bharata's anxiety and affection at that moment the Nisada chief forgot all about himself.