Uttar Kaanda
202 - Sri Rama bestows parting presents on the monkeys and the Nisada chief
Chaupais
Description
They had forgotten their home so completely that they never thought of it even in a dream any more than a saint would harbour ill-will towards another. The Lord of the Raghus then called all His comrades; all came and bowed their heads with reverence. Most lovingly He seated them by His side and addressed them in tender words, which were the delight of devotees: "You have rendered unstinted service to Me; but how can I praise you to your face? You renounced your home and comforts on My account; hence you have endeared yourselves most to Me. My younger brothers, My crown, My fortune, Sita (My spouse), My life, My home, My near and dear once are all dear to Me; but none so dear as you; I tell you no untruth, I simply reveal My nature to you. Every master, as a rule, loves his servant; but I, for one, am exceptionally fond of My servants.