Uttar Kaanda
199 - Bharata's desolation; meeting of Bharata and Hanuman; rejoicing in Ayodhya
Chaupais
Description
Bharata too returned with joy to Ayodhya and broke all the news to his preceptor (the sage Vasistha). He then made it known inside the palace that the Lord of the Raghus was approaching Ayodhya safe and sound. On hearing the news all the mothers started up and ran; but Bharata eased their mind by personally telling them of the Lord's welfare. When the information reached the citizens, men and women all ran out in their joy (to meet their lord). With gold plates containing curds, Durva grass, the sacred yellow pigment known by the name of Gorocana, fruits and flowers and young leaves of the sacred Tulasi (basil) plant, the root of all blessings, ladies sallied forth with the stately gait of an elephant, singing as they went. All ran out just as they happened to be and did not take children or old folk with them. People asked one another: "Brother, did you see the gracious Lord of the Raghus?" Having come to know of the Lord's advent, the city of Ayodhya became a mine of all beauty. A delightful breeze breathed soft, cool and fragrant. The Sarayu rolled down crystal clear water