Ayodhya Kandam

78. Shatrugna Tortures Mandhara

[When Shatrugna was sorrowing, the guards caught hold of Mandhara and told about her role to Shatrugna. Shatrugna became greatly furious and tortured her. Bharatha intervened and asked him to leave her as Rama would not like torturing of women.]

Addressing The extremely sorrowing Bharatha who was starting on a journey, Shathrugna told. 78.1

"Rama is the source of protection of all beings and so what is the need for this sorrowing by us. That great Rama endowed with great strength has been sent to forest by a woman." 78.2

"Why did not the very strong and valorous Lakshmana restraint our father and why did not he release Rama from this?" 78.3

"The king could have earlier itself restrained, after careful consideration, of that person who climbed up and influenced the lady of the king." 78.4

While Shatrugna the brother of Lakshmana was speaking thus, the hunchback was seen at the eastern entrance of the town wearing all types of instruments. 78.5

She was wearing royal dress and had applied sandal paste on herself and had adorned herself with various types of several ornaments. 78.6

She was wearing waist belts of different colours and very many types of ornaments and tied them with coloured strings and looked like a monkey. 78.7

The gate keepers seeing her as the sinner who is the main cause of all the problems mercilessly caught hold of her and informed Shatrugna. 78.8

"Here is the sinner and evil women on whose account Rama is in the forest and your father left his body. Do with her as it pleases you." 78.9

Shatrugna who was extremely sad as well as disciplined, having heard those words addressing all those who are moving to the private apartment of the king told. 78.10

"Let her, who brought great sorrow to my brother and father, reap the result of the malicious action done by her." 78.11

Saying this he forcibly caught hold of her who was surrounded by her friends and the house resounded with the cries of that hunchback. 78.12

Seeing him extremely pained and greatly angry all her friends ran away in different directions. 78.13

Those companions were talking with each other, "Seeing the way that he has started, it looks like that he would kill all of us." 78.14

"The compassionate, generous and follower of Dharma, the queen Kausalya is our only refuge and let us seek it from her." 78.15

Shatrugna, who gave pain to his enemies with reddened eyes due to great anger, dragged that shrieking hunchback on the ground. 78.16

When Mandhara was being dragged like this, the collection of different ornaments that she wore broke down and were scattered on the ground. 78.17

With several of her ornaments being strewn on the floor, the home of the king looked like the sky with its scattered stars. 78.18

The best of men who was powerful, with very great anger dragged her near Kaikeyi and spoke these insulting words to her. 78.19

Kaikeyi being upset by those harsh insulting words of Shatrugna became sad and sought the protection of her son Bharatha. 78.20

Bharatha addressing the greatly enraged Shatrugna said, "Please pardon her as the female among human beings should not be killed." 78.21

"If Rama who follows Dharma were not to get angry with me for killing this wicked and sinful lady, I myself would have killed this Kaikeyi." 78.22

"If Rama comes to know that this hunchback has been killed, it is definite that he would neither talk to you or me." 78.23

Hearing the words of Bharatha, Shatrugna the brother of Lakshmana, controlled his anger and released Mandhara. 78.24

Mandhara tormented by sorrow and pain, fell at the feet of Kaikeyi heaving deep tortured breaths and wretchedly cried. 78.25

The mother of Bharatha seeing the hunchback thrown at her feet and who has lost her consciousness, looked here and there like a Krauncha bird caught in the net and consoled that hunchback. 78.26

This is the end of Seventy Eighth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

79. Bharatha Refuses to be Crowned

[On the fourteenth day, the people of Ayodhya offer the kingdom to Bharatha and request him to get crowned. He refuses the offer and tells them that he would bring back Rama and crown him. He starts making arrangements for march of the army.]

On the fourteenth day morning, those who are empowered to nominate the king assembled and told Bharatha. 79.1

"Our revered master king Dasaratha has gone to heaven and the very strong Lakshmana and Rama have gone to the forest." 79.2

"Oh famous prince, now you please become our king, though no one has done any harm to this country without a leader." 79.3

"Oh son of the king, Oh Bharatha, your people as well as those belonging to all trades have brought necessary materials for your crowing and are waiting." 79.4

"Oh Bharatha, Oh best among men, please receive this stable kingdom which belonged to your father and grandfather, get yourself crowned and rule over us." 79.5

Bharatha, who was stable in his penance, went round the materials procured for his coronation, replied to those people. 79.6

"Is not the crowning of the eldest son as a king, the tradition of my clan? So it is not proper for knowledgeable people like you to advise me like this." 79.7

"Our eldest brother Rama would become the king and I would live in the forest for another fourteen years." 79.8

"Let the great army consisting for different parts be got ready. I will go and get my elder brother from the forest myself." 79.9

"I shall keep all these sanctified things procured for my coronation on my front and get back Rama from the forest." 79.10

"I would crown that tiger among men in the forest itself and will bring him back like the sanctified fire from place of Yagna." 79.11

"I would not fulfill the desires of the woman who calls herself as my mother and I would live in the inaccessible forest and Rama would become king here." 79.12

"Let the road be laid, after leveling uneven ground by expert artisans and those experts in protection in inaccessible places follow us." 79.13

When the prince was talking favouring Rama, all the people replied him in excellent auspicious words. 79.14

"When you desire to give this earth to your elder brother, in those words Goddess Lakshmi herself is present." 79.15
Hearing those matchless words from the son of the king, all of them who were in the range of hearing became extremely happy and the eyes of noble men started shedding tears." 79.16

Hearing the words that were uttered become greatly joyous, the ministers and members of the council were relieved of their distress and said, "Oh best among men, devoted people and expert artisans have already been instructed tyo lay the road." 79.17

This is the end of Seventy Ninth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

80. Bharatha's Men Construct Road

[Great many people are engaged in construction of the road to go and meet Rama and they work ceaselessly and efficiently.]

Then the people who knew topography of land, People who are expert in measurement, devoted workers, energetic excavators, those who know how to operate machines, skilled labourers, architects, craftsmen, carpenters, road levelers, people for cutting trees, people for digging wells, those who knew how to paint, basket makers and competent supervisors started in advance. 80-1-80.3

The very large number of people proceeding from each region resembled swollen sea on the full moon days. 80.4

Those experts in formation of roads along with necessary tools preceded all others. 80.5

They cleared the creepers and shrubs, cut off unnecessary trees, removed various types of boulders and paved the road for travel. 80.6

They transplanted trees in place where they were not there and cut off trees wherever it was needed using hatchets axes, hooked tools and the saw. 80.7

Some other strong men uprooted deep rooted grass from here and there and cleared uneven places and made the path fit for travel. 80.8

Others filled up wells and hollow dried up areas with loose soil and some others lifted up low lying lands and made them even. 80.9

Some people constructed bridges in places which required to be bridged, and powdered obstruction where they are required and broke places which needs to be split open. 80.10

Within a very short time, they constructed big ponds and lakes, looking like the sea of different shapes. 80.11

In places without water, great wells with pure water were dug, which were surrounded by circular dykes. 80.12

The highway for the army was made smooth, plastered with mortar and line of blossoming trees were planted. Intoxicated joyful birds marched through them singing with joy. They were further decorated with flags and sandal water was sprinkled over them and strewn with flowers of all types. With all this the highway brilliantly shined like the path of Gods. 80.13-80.14

Those workers who were responsible for various tasks, obeyed the orders of Bharatha sincerely and ordered other artisans to work. They filled up resting places meant for Bharatha with various types of fruits and also made them lovely. They also decorated such places so that it resembled ornaments. 80.15-80.16

Those astrologers who were experts in auspicious stars, fixed the time of stay of Bharatha in these resting places on the way. 80.17

Expert workers spread heads of sand around these resting places and built moats around it. It was Adorned with broad highways and lined with houses as high as Indrakeela mountain. Those excellent tall buildings appeared as if they were prepared to fly in the sky. The flags decorating these ways could be seen everywhere and it resembled the place of Indra in splendour. 80.18-80.20

That road with forests of various trees and had sources of cool and clear water reached the banks of river Ganga with abundance of fishes. 80.21

Constructed by expert craftsmen that lovely royal road shined like the night sky illuminated by cluster stars and moon. 80.22

This is the end of Eightieth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

81. Vasishta Arranges Meeting

[When respect of king is given to Bharatha, he is upset. Vasishta calls for a meeting of all concerned.]

Then the expert in words, bards, and genealogists made a delightful start of the night with auspicious notes and praised Bharatha. 81.1

The drum of the night watch was beaten by golden sticks [to indicate time], conches in hundreds were blown and instruments of various modulations were played. 81.2

That high sound of pipes reached up to the heavens but caused even more sorrow and distress to Bharatha. 81.3

Bharatha who was woken up by that sound immediately got it stopped and told Shatrugna that "I am not the king." 81.4

"See Shatrugna, what great harm has been done to the world by Kaikeyi. Lord Dasaratha has left the earth leaving all these sorrows to me." 81.5

"This country which was ruled by the great king of dharma who rooted in Dharma is now like a boat without helmsmen caught in the whirlpool." 81.6

"And also the very great protector of this country Rama, has been banished to the forest by my mother who has abandoned Dharma." 81.7

Seeing Bharatha crying like that and becoming unconscious, all the women cried together continuously. 81.8

When he was crying like this Vasishta the expert on the king's Dharma entered the assembly hall of the lord of Ikshuvaku clan. 81.9

That follower of Dharma along with his disciples entered that hall finished in gold and inlaid with many gems and precious stones and resembled Sudharma, the assembly hall of Indra. 81.10

Sitting on the golden seat covered with comfortable spread, he gave orders to the messengers this way. 81.11

"Bring immediately Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisyas, ministers and army commanders of a steady mind as a very important matter need to be discussed." 81.12

"Bring along with royal attendants the famous Shatrugna, the illustrious Bharatha, . Yudhajith, Sumanthra, all well wishers of the king." 81.13

When the invitees started coming as per the orders of Vasishta in their horses and Chariots, great sound of din prevailed there. 81.14

"When Bharatha was coming he was greeted by ministers and other people like they used to greet Dasaratha and it resembled Devas greeting Indra." 81.15

Graced by the sons of Dasaratha, that assembly hall, teeming with fish and serpents, with gems, shells, pebbles and grains of sand, looked as if Dasaratha himself was present there. 81.16

This is the end of Eighty First Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

82. Bharatha Refuses Kingdom Offer

[Vasishta requests Bharatha to get himself crowned, but he refuses to accept. It is decided that all people will go with Bharatha to forest and bring back Rama.]

The very intelligent Bharatha saw well controlled gentleman in the assembly hall which looked like a dark night with full moon and bright stars. 82.1

After the entry, the seats were occupied according to their rank and the assembly looked splendid with people who have dressed in costly garments and applied unguents with good scent. 82.2

The intensely splendid assembly with multitude of learned people looked like the autumnal night with full moon. 82.3

The chief priest, who was an expert in Dharma having seen the king's subjects, spoke in a very gentle way to Bharatha. 82.4

"Dear child, the king Dasaratha following all the tenets of Dharma has conferred this vast kingdom abounding in wealth and grains on you, before going to heaven." 82.5

"Rama abiding by the truth and constantly remembering the path of Dharmic people, did not move away from the wishes of his father, like the rising moon which does not move away from moon light." 82.6

"This kingdom has been awarded to you by your father as well as your brother completely removed of its thorns Please crown yourself quickly as its king and enjoy it along with the chosen ministers of your choice." 82.7

"Let the kings from north, west as well as south and kings of bordering kingdoms and from the islands of the sea bring crores of very costly jewels." 82.8

Hearing those words, Bharatha was immersed in the sea of sorrow and wishing for Dharma reached by his mind Rama. 82.9

That young man who has a sweet voice like a swan, with sweet voice choked by sobs, lamented in the middle of that assembly and found fault with that chief family priest Vasishta. 82.10

"How can a man like me seize the kingdom from the very knowledgeable Rama, who observes the penance of Brahmacharya, who knows all branches of learning and who is trying to protect Dharma." 82.11

"How can any one born to Dasaratha become an usurper of a kingdom? Me and this kingdom belong to Rama. It is only proper for you to tell about this." 82.12

"The son of Kakustha clan, the soul of Dharma, the eminent and eldest son Rama who is comparable to Nahusha and Dilipa only merits to get this kingdom as was received by Dasaratha. 82.13

"If I do this sin which ungentlemanly wicked act not leading to heaven, in this world, I would become the disgrace to the Ikshuvaku clan." 82.14

"This sinful act done by mother is always distasteful to me and from here I am saluting my brother who is in the inaccessible forest." 82.15

"As Rama is the best among those who walk with two legs, I would follow him. In all the three worlds, Only Rama deserves to get this kingdom." 82.16

All the members of the assembly hearing these words of Dharma, fixing their thought on Rama shed tears of joy. 82.17

"If I am not able to bring back my esteemed brother, I shall also dwell in the forest like Lakshmana." 82.18

"I would use all possible methods to bring him back with force and come in the presence of all of you who are pious men." 82.19

"I have already dispatched explorers and protectors of the path as well as those who would assist them for wages or without wages and it also pleases me to take this journey." 82.20

The lover of his brother and the soul of Dharma that Bharatha after telling this told Sumanthra who was an expert in counseling who was standing nearby. 82.21

"Oh Sumanthra, get up and go and speedily arrange for the army to be assembled to go on this expedition, as per my order." 82.22

When the great Bharatha told like this to Sumanthra, with great joy, he fulfilled those commands and it looked like that he liked it. 82.23

The citizens were greatly pleased to know that the army and its chiefs have been ordered on a journey to bring back Rama. 82.24

In each and every house when the wives of soldiers came to know about the orders for the journey, with great joy they hastened up their husbands. 82.25

Those chiefs of army collected horses, fast moving bullock carts, fast moving chariots and soldiers of the army as ordered. 82.26

Bharatha who was in the presence of his Guru, having seen that the army was assembled, requested Sumanthra to get ready his chariot. 82.27

He heard the order of Bharatha with great joy and harnessed the chariot with excellent horses. 82.28

Then Bharatha, who was steadfast in his words, who was greatly valorous, and one who spoke with proper words and one who wanted to please his brother who had gone to the forest said. 82.29

"Oh Sumanthra, go to the chiefs of the army and order them to assemble the army so that I can start to go for wishing to ask for forgiveness and then to bring back my brother, who is in the forest, for the sake of welfare of the world." 82.30

The son of the charioteer, who was properly ordered by Bharatha with his greatest desire fulfilled, ordered all important people as well as the chiefs of army and friends. 82.31
Thereafter from clan after clan belonging to Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaisya and Shudra castes, rose up and brought out camels and donkeys as well as Chariots, elephants of good pedigree and horses and started for the travel. 82.32

This is the end of Eighty Second Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

83. Bharatha's Forest Journey

[Bharatha starts to meet Rama along with a huge army and a teeming population of people belonging to various castes and trades. They reach the town of Guha and take rest there.]

Waking up early morning Bharatha boarded excellent chariot and set out with a desire to see Rama swiftly. 83.1

All the ministers and priests went ahead in chariots resembling the chariot of the sun, which were yoked to horses. 83.2

Nine thousand elephants arranged in proper fashion, followed Bharatha who was the delight of the clan of Ikshuvakus. 83.3

Sixty thousand elephants and well armed archers followed behind Bharatha who was a famous prince. 83.4

One hundred thousand horses mounted by their riders followed Bharatha who was truthful, who had control over his sense organs and who belonged to the clan of Raghu. 83.5

Kaikeyi, Sumithra and the famous Kausalya joyful at the thought of bringing back Rama went in chariots which were shining. 83.6

Groups of gentlemen who were delighted in their hearts by the spectacular achievements of Rama were travelling to see Rama and Lakshmana. 83.7

"When will be able to see Rama who is like a black cloud, very strong, had remarkable courage and steadfast in penance who can destroy all sorrows of the world." 83.8

"As soon as we see Rama, all our sorrow will vanish, like the darkness vanishing on seeing the Sun." 83.9

The people of the town on their way narrated to each other achievements of Rama and also hugged each other. 83.10

Those others who were close to the family of the king, merchants as well as other citizens went along with delight to see Rama. 83.11

Polishers of gems and ornaments, potters capable of making ornamental pottery, manufacturers of weapons, weavers, People who make show pieces using peacock feathers, people who saw wood, makers of cheap ornaments, perforators of shell as well as ornaments, artisans on ivory, people who plaster, merchants of fragrant essences, famous goldsmiths, blanket cleaners, bath attendants, doctors, vintners, merchants of perfumes, washer men, tailors, chiefs of villages, actors along with their wives, fishermen joined the group. 83.12-83.15

Thousands of Brahmins who were expert in Vedas, who had a composed mind and who were famous for their Dharma followed Bharatha riding on bullock carts. 83.16

Properly dressed up in clean cloths, wearing red sandal paste in groups riding on various vehicles people slowly followed Bharatha. 83.17

The very cheerful army followed the son of Kaikeyi Bharatha who loved his brother and was going to bring back his brother. 83.18

Travelling on chariots, carts, elephants and horse for a long distance with great difficulty, they reached near Sringaberipura which was near the Ganges river, which was a city ruled vigilantly by Rama's friend the valiant Guha who was living there with his relatives. 83.19-83.20

The army accompanying Bharatha reached the river Ganga frequented by Chakravaka birds and halted on its banks. 83.21

After inspecting the army that followed him as well as the sacred waters of the river Ganga, Bharatha, who was an expert in speech addressed his ministers. 83.22

"I am of the opinion that the army can halt here and after taking further rest, we will cross the river tomorrow." 83.23

"Meanwhile I desire to give ablations with water in the river to my father who has gone to heaven, for ensuring him good life in that world." 83.24

When Bharatha spoke like this to the ministers, each of them agreed with this and with composed minds, each of them allowed the army with them to relax. 83.25

Bharatha made adequate arrangements for camping his great army on the banks of the mighty river Ganga and thought over the problem of bringing back Rama and took up his dwelling there. 83.26

This is the end of Eighty Third Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

84. Guha Meets Bharatha

[Guha suspects the intention of Bharatha. So he carefully approaches him. Sumanthra tells Bharatha about Guha. Guha is allowed to meet Bharatha.]

Then Guha, the king of NIshadhas observing the great bannered army encamping on the banks of river Ganga, hurriedly addressed all his relatives and said. 84.1

"I am seeing a great army which is spread like an ocean and I am unable to comprehend by my mind as to its magnitude." 84.2

"It appears to me that the evil minded Bharatha himself has come here. The huge emblem of Kovidha tree seems to be hoisted atop his chariot." 84.3

"Would Bharatha, the son of Kaikeyi arrest us with cords or would he kill all of us or has he come with the desire of conquering this thriving kingdom which is not easily obtainable or is he desirous of slaying Rama who was banished by his father?" 84.4-84.5

"Rama the son of Dasaratha is not only my master but also my friend. So be vigilantly stationed on the banks of Ganga, so that his interests are protected." 84.6

"Let all fishermen who live on fruits, roots and meet and who depend on Ganga for their livelihood stay here along with their armies." 84.7

"Let five hundred boats each manned by hundred men be available here", said Guha exhorting them. 84.8

"If perchance Bharatha is not ill disposed to Rama then his army would cross over river Ganga today itself in safety." 84.9

After telling this, the king of NIshadhas, carrying, fish, meat and wine as presents approached Bharatha. 84.10

The very famous son of the charioteer, who was humble by nature, seeing their coming informed humbly about it. 84.11

"This Lord who is surrounded by thousands of his relatives is very knowledgeable about Dandaka forest. He who is aged is a great friend of your brother." 84.12

"Oh son of Kakustha clan, so you may let the Lord of NIshadhas Guha to see you as he will undoubtedly know about the whereabouts of Rama and Lakshmana." 84.13

After having heard these auspicious words of Sumanthra, Bharatha said "Allow him to meet me immediately." 84.14

Guha became joyous on seeing that the permission was obtained and along with his relatives and with humility approached Bharatha and told him. 84.15

"This country is like the garden in your backyard and all of us are subordinate to you and you may live in the home of this slave." 84.16

"Here are the roots and fruits from the forest and also great varieties of dried and fresh meat brought to you by these NIshadhas. ' 84.17

"I am desiring that you and along with your army may take rest here tonight and after we present you with various offerings, your army can proceed tomorrow." 84.18

This is the end of Eighty Fourth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

85. Guha's Doubts Cleared

[When Guha asks Bharatha whether his intentions are evil, Bharatha tells him that he is going to bring back Rama. Guha is greatly impressed. Bharatha spends a sleepless night due to worry.]

Bharatha hearing the words of Guha, the lord of NIshadhas, replied with well thought-out and greatly significant words. 85.1

"Oh friend of my elder brother, your intention of providing food for this very great army, indeed is great." 85.2

After saying these very great words to Guha, he again told the lord of the NIshadhas. 85.3

"Oh Guha, these marshy banks of river Ganga is dense and difficult to cross, Can you tell me how I can cross this and go to the hermitage of Bharadwaja." 85.4

Hearing these words of the sagacious son of the king, Guha who is an expert forest ranger replied with folded hands. 85.5

"Oh very famous son of the king, these fishermen armed with bow shall accompany you with vigilance and I also would accompany you." 85.6

"Are you going to Rama who never gets tired, with an intention to cause harm to him? Seeing your great army, I am getting this doubt." 85.7

Bharatha who was as pure as the sky, hearing these words replied to Guha in a gentle tone. 85.8

"Let such an evil time causing such a calamity never come. It is not worthy of you to suspect me like that as Rama as an elder brother is like my father and held in high esteem by me." 85.9

"I am going to bring that son of Kakustha back from the forest. Oh Guha, please do not entertain any other thought as I am telling you the truth." 85.10

On hearing the talk of Bharatha, Guha became happy and with a face beaming with joy, once again told Bharatha. 85.11

"You are a blessed man because you want to renounce that kingdom, which you got without any effort and I do not see anyone equal to you in this earth." 85.12

"Great permanent fame will follow you in this world, because you are desiring to bring back, Rama who is in great difficulty." 85.13

When Guha was talking like this to Bharatha, the sun started shining with less brilliance and the night started setting in." 85.14

Bharatha after encamping his huge army with the help rendered by Guha, retired to sleep. Shatrugna also started sleeping. 85.15

But the great Bharatha's mind was occupied by the sorrow about Rama. Being a man steeped in Dharma he did not deserve to be sorrowing like this. 85.16

Inside Bharatha the grief was burning him and scorching him, like the hidden fire in the forest scorching a tree. 85.17

Just as the snow on Himalayas is melted by heat of the sun flows out, sweat poured out from all parts of his body due to the heat of grief. 85.18

With unbreakable mountain of meditation, with mineral like heaving, with pathos of multitude of trees, with sorrows and tiresomeness like mountain peaks, with countless creatures of stupor, with sorrows making him like bamboo trees, Bharatha was enveloped by the mountain of sorrow. 85.19-85.20

Then the best among men, heaving sighs with a very disturbed mind, with bewildered senses, caught in great calamity, oppressed by the heat raised in his heart, like the bull driven out by the herd lost his peace of mind. 85.21

Bharatha followed by his people joined with Guha and Guha Again consoled Bharatha who was with a greatly distraught mind thinking about Rama. 85.22

This is the end of Eighty Fifth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

86. Guha Talks of Lakshmana

[Guha tells Bharatha about Lakshmana and his love towards Rama. He tells how he guarded Rama in spite of Guha's offer to do so. He told how worried Lakshmana was about Ayodhya.]

Then the forest ranger Guha described to Bharatha, who had countless virtues, the good nature of the great Lakshmana. 86.1

"I spoke to Lakshmana who was completely awake for the protection of his brother holding bows and arrows." 86.2

"Oh friend Lakshmana who belongs to clan of Raghu, for your sake a comfortable bed has been arranged. Without any anxiety, please lie down on it." 86.3

"Oh soul of Dharma, all of our people are used to sorrow but you are accustomed to pleasure and so we will stay awake for the protection of Rama." 86.4

"There is no one in this world who is dearer than Rama to me. Do not be anxious. I am telling you the truth." 86.5

"With his blessings, I want to attain great fame in this world, abundance of Dharma and absolute Artha and Kama." 86.6

"I armed with bow and arrow along with our clan members, would protect my dear friend Rama who is sleeping with Sita." 86.7

"Since I wander around the forest always, nothing here is unknown to me. In a battle here we can fight with an army with four divisions." 86.8

"Telling like this to that great soul Lakshmana, we all were able to see only Dharma in him." 86.9

He further said, "When Rama is sleeping on the ground with Sita, how is it possible for me to get sleep or pleasure of life." 86.10

"Oh, Guha, that Rama whom even asuras and devas cannot withstand in a battle is lying down on a bed of grasses with Sita." 86.11

"Rama was obtained by Dasaratha by performing many great austerities and is the only son who resembles my father in all his virtues." 86.12

"After he was banished the king cannot survive for long and quickly this earth would be turned in to a widow." 86.13

"The women in the king's private apartment must have cried loudly for a long time and would have stopped by now due to getting very tired and by now all the sound would have been calmed down in the palace." 86.14

"I think that Kausalya and the king as well as my mother Sumithra would outlive this night." 86.15

"My mother may continue to live by looking after Shatrugna, but as for the mother of the warrior, Kausalya would die due to extreme grief." 86.16

"After failing to fulfill one cherished desire after another one, the king will die without being able to make Rama the king." 86.17

"When the moment for lying in state on earth comes to my father, the person who carries out his funeral rites would have achieved his purpose." 86.18

"Then he will move about in my father's city of Ayodhya with pretty highways and cross roads, full of mansions and palaces which are embedded with precious stones, thronged by large number of elephants, horses and chariots, echoing with sound of trumpets, filled with auspiciousness everywhere, crowded with joyful prosperous people, with large number of pleasure gardens, shining is community festivals and is full of all sort of comforts." 86.19-86.21

"Would we be ever able to enter Ayodhya after we safely fulfill the vow of Rama of completing the full term in the forest?" 86.22

"While the great prince was lamenting this way and was waiting, the night passed off." 86.23

"On the next day dawn in the banks of river Ganga, they matted their hair and were comfortably ferried across the river by me." 86.24

"Wearing matted hair and dress made of barks of wood those powerful men who were slayer of their enemies and resembling the lord of bull elephants, armed with excellent bows, arrows and other weapons, looking back with alertness went with Sita." 86.25

This is the end of Eighty Sixth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

87. Guha Tells about Rama

[Bharatha becomes sad and upset. Later Bharatha asks about what Rama ate and where he slept. Guha tells him that he only sipped water and lay down on a bed of Durbha prepared by Lakshmana.]

Bharatha after hearing these words of Guha, which was not to his liking, was immersed in thought as and when he heard each sentence. 87.1

"Bharatha who was gentle, powerful, with shoulders like that of a lion, with great arms, with wide eyes resembling petals of a lotus, youthful and graceful was revived for a moment but immediately fell down with grief like an elephant, heavily beaten by whips." 87.2-87.3

Seeing Bharatha like this, Shatrugna who was standing nearby, hugged him with great sorrow and fell down senseless. 87.4

Then all the mothers of Bharatha who were emaciated due to fasting, desolate and grieving for the death of their husband rushed towards him. 87.5

All of them wailing fell around him on the ground but Kausalya who was desolate approached Bharatha and took him in her hands. 87.6

The saint like very sad Kausalya who had great affection towards him wept and clasped him like her own child and enquired. 87.7

"Oh Son I hope some sickness is not afflicting you as the well being of the king's clan is now dependent on you." 87.8

"Oh son when Rama left with his brother and after king Dasaratha departed to heaven, I am living because I am able to see you and you are our sole protector." 87.9

"Oh son, have you heard something unpleasant about Lakshmana as well as my son who has gone to the forest along with his wife. Rama is my only son." 87.10

That famous one instantly consoled himself but still crying reassured Kausalya and told the following to Guha. 87.11

"Oh Guha, where did my brother along with Sita and Lakshmana spend the night? Where did they sleep? And what did they eat?. Please tell me." 87.12

Guha, the lord of NIshadhas greatly delighted told his loveable guest about all that he had provided to Rama. 87.13

"I offered Rama various kinds of rice, several kinds of eatables and great quantity of fruits which were brought for his meal." 87.14

"Rama who was valorous in his truth ordered all of that to be taken back, remembering the duties of Kshatriya he did not accept them." 87.15

"You should never take anything from others but always give, my friend", like this that great one entreated." 87.16

"That great one only drank water which was brought by Lakshmana and later Rama and Sita observed fasting." 87.17

"Lakshmana drank the remaining water and thus completed his work. Then they performed evening worship observing silence." 87.18

"Then later Lakshmana prepared a comfortable and auspicious bed for them by using Dharbha collected by himself." 87.19

"Rama along with Sita lay down on that bed and Lakshmana after washing their feet, went away to a distant place." 87.20

'Near the roots of this Ingudi tree is the place where the Durbha was spread over which Rama and Sita slept." 87.21

"Lakshmana, the destroyer of his enemies along with quivers filled with arrows and wearing a finger guard made of goat skin and also holding a bow which was strung ready, stood guard throughout that night." 87.22

"There after I also armed with very good bow and arrow and surrounded by indefatigable men who were also armed with arrows who belonged to my clan, stood in guard of Indra like Rama along with Lakshmana." 87.23

This is the end of Eighty Seventh Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

88. Bharatha is Upset

[Guha shows Bharatha the bed on which Rama and Sita slept. Bharatha is greatly upset. He decided to wear matted hair and cloths of Bark and live in forest while Rama is crowned in Ayodhya.]

Having listened to all those words, Bharatha along with his expert ministers, went to the foot of Ingudi tree and gazed at the bed of Dharbha there and addressing his mothers he told, "That great Rama slept here on the ground at this spot and you may see the crushed bed here." 88.1-88.2

"That very fortunate and intelligent son of Dasaratha born in a very great clan does not deserve to sleep on this naked earth." 88.3

"How could that tiger among men who is used to sleep on deer skin spread over several excellent bed spreads, sleep on this naked ground." 88.4

"That destroyer of enemies Rama used to reside in seven storied palaces and great mansions with floors paved with gold, over which carpets used to be spread. These rooms used to have bouquets of flowers of varied colours and the paste of the perfumed sandal and Agaru used to be applied there."

"The roofs of these palaces looked like white clouds and they echoed with the sweet sound of several parrots. These palaces used to be cool and were scented with many perfumes. They were all equal to Meru Mountain with their gold plated walls. He used to be woken up by playing of musical instruments, playing of drums and tinkling sound of ornaments. Many poets, flatterers and genealogists used to sing appropriate verses extolling his virtue at the proper time and used to salute him." 88.5-88.9

"This happening cannot be believed and it does not appear to be truth to me and my mind is scared as it looks like a bad dream to me." 88.10

"Surely the divine will is much more powerful, because Rama the son of Dasaratha had to sleep on the floor." 88.11

"Sita who is the daughter of king of Videha, who has a comely appearance and who was the daughter in law of king Dasaratha also had to sleep on the floor." 88.12

"This bed of my brother has been tossed about and this grasses spread on hard earth has been crushed by his limbs." 88.13

"Here and there I see some particles of Gold had been attached to it and possibly Sita must have slept on them wearing all her ornaments." 88.14

"It is evident that the upper garment of Sita has been stuck here, for here and there silk threads are shining on it." 88.15

"I think this bed of her husband must have been comfortable for her, who is young lady who is delicate, chaste and observing penance and she never felt any suffering." 88.16

"Alas, it is unfortunate that due to a cruel person like me, Rama with his wife was made like orphans and had to sleep on such a bed." 88.17

"How can Rama, born in the family of emperors, revered by all the world, one who is darling of all the world, one who is the colour of blue lotus, one who had red eyes, one who has pleasant looks, one who enjoyed pleasures and one who never merited sorrow, had to leave the matchless comforts of his kingdom, and sleep on this hard floor." 88.18-88.19

"The great Lakshmana who has auspicious virtues who accompanied his brother at the time of adversity and followed him is blessed." 88.20

"By accompanying her husband to the forest Vaidehi has accomplished her objective, for without any doubt, being away from Rama all of us are debased ones." 88.21

"With Dasaratha having gone to heaven, and Rama having depended on the forest, to me the country appears to be without a helmsman." 88.22

"No one should desire to have this kingdom, because, even though Rama is in the forest, the country is protected by his mighty arms." 88.23

"The capital city of Ayodhya, without guards to protect it from ramparts, With elephants and horses let loose, with city gates kept open and thus unobstructed, unprotected and with unhappy and demoralized army would be even shunned by the enemies like food mixed with poison." 88.24-88.25

"From today I will always have matted hair and wear cloths made of bark, eat only fruits and roots and sleep on the bare floor." 88.26

"I would cheerfully live for the rest of the period in the forest, taking the vow of Rama on myself, so that the vow is not made untrue." 88.27

"When I live in the forest instead of my brother, Shatrugna would live me and the great Rama along with Lakshmana will protect the kingdom." 88.28

"The great Brahmins will hold the coronation of Rama in Ayodhya and would the gods fulfill this wish of my mind." 88.29

"I would personally bowing my head to him would request for his grace and if it is not granted, I would live with him in the forest for a long time, so that he would not be able to ignore me." 88.30

This is the end of Eighty Eighth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

89. Bharatha Reaches Bharadwaja's Hermitage

[Guha arranges to ferry Bharatha along with his family members and army across Ganga. Then they all travel and reach near the hermitage of saint Bharadwaja.]

Bharatha, after spending that night on the banks of Ganga, got up at dawn and told Shatrugna. 89.1

"Shatrugna are you asleep. You be safe. Please go and bring Guha, the Lord of NIshadhas speedily. He will help us and the army to cross the river Ganga." 89.2

Shatrugna replied when urged like this, "I have not been sleeping but I have been continuously thinking about Rama." 89.3

While the lions among were talking like this, Guha came in time and, saluted them and told Bharatha. 89.4

"Did you spent the night comfortably on the banks of the river. I hope you and your army had no inconvenience." 89.5

Hearing those affectionate words of Guha, Bharatha, who was partial to Rama told. 89.6

"Oh king, the night was comfortable. We have been honoured by you. Please instruct your servants to ferry us across the Ganga in their innumerable boats." 89.7

Guha on hearing the orders of Bharatha, went quickly to his town and told his clan members. 89.8

"Get up, awake. Safety to you for all time. Haul down your boats and let us ferry this army across the river. 89.9

As per the order of the king they all got up quickly and brought five hundred boats. 89.10

They also brought other luxury boats called Swasthika, which had large bells, had flags, were magnificent looking, built solidly and were suitable for sailing. 89.11

Guha then Brought another auspicious Swasthika boat, covered with white wool blankets and filled with pleasing sounds. 89.12

Vasishta and other important Brahmins boarded that boat first. Later it was boarded by Bharatha, Shatrugna, Kausalya, Sumithra and other women of the king's house and wives of the king. In that boat their wagons and supplies were boarded. 89.13-89.14

The sound of people burning their temporary shelters, their getting down in waters and boarding all the materials in the boats reached the heavens. 89.15

Controlled by flags and propelled by the fishermen, those boats boarded by and carrying men moved very speedily. 89.16

Some boards carried women, some others were filled with horses, some others carried draught animals and carriages and some great treasures. 89.17

When the boats reached the other shore all the people disembarked and those fishermen returned making lovely formations in the river. 89.18

The elephants decorated by flags and goaded by Mahouts while they were crossing the river shined like mountains. 89.19

Apart from those who crossed by boats, others crossed either by rafts and large pots or swam and crossed the river. 89.20

The auspicious army which was ferried across the river by fishermen reached the holy forest of Prayaga in the Maithra holy period. 89.21

After giving rest to the army, the great soul Bharatha, allowing them to live as per their pleasure set out along with his priests, to see the very great saint Bharadwaja. 89.22

Having approached the hermitage of the great Brahmin, who was a great soul and priest of the devas, he saw delightful huts and multitude of trees and the charming forest of the best of Brahmins. 89.23

This is the end of Eighty Ninth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

90. Bhardwaja Talks with Bharatha

[Bharadwaja also misunderstands the intention of Bharatha. Later hearing his real intention, he is greatly pleased. He informs Bharatha about the present location of Rama. Bharatha decides to spend that night in the great heritage.]

Seeing the hermitage of Bharadwaja, from a distance of about two miles, that best among men who was a knower of dharma, brought the entire army to a halt, went along with his ministers to the hermitage, keeping the priests in front, and after leaving out all ornaments and weapons and wearing silk garments. 90.1-90.2

Then Bharatha made the ministers to halt at a glancing distance from hermitage of Bharadwaja, went forward along with his chief priest towards the hermitage. 90.3

That great ascetic, on seeing sage Vasishta, sprang up from his seat and told his disciples, "Please bring offerings of water." 90.4

After that lustrous saint met sage Vasishta and after receiving the salutations of Bharatha, he was informed that he is the son of Dasaratha, 90.5

Bharadwaja who was conversant with Dharma, in accordance of their importance made welcome offering to them and offered water for washing their feet and after giving them fruits enquired from Bharatha about news and welfare of his family. 90.6

He enquired about the welfare of Ayodhya, army, treasury and well being of friends as well as ministers and knowingly did not mention about Dasaratha. 90.7

There after Vasishta and Bharatha enquired about his health of the body, sacred fires, trees as well as disciples and also about the animals and birds. 90.8

The great ascetic Bharadwaja after affirming about the general welfare and out of his bonds of affection to Rama told Bharatha. 90.9

"You being the ruler of a kingdom, what is the reason for your coming here? Tell me everything in detail as my mind is not clear about it." 90.10

"Rama, the destroyer of enemies, who increases happiness of people and who was given birth by Kausalya, along with his brother has been banished to the forest for quite a long time. That one who is great has been ordered to live in the forest for fourteen years by his father due to the persuasion of a women. With a aim of enjoying the kingdom without any problems do you intend to cause harm to him and his sinless brother?" 90.11-90.13

When Bharadwaja told like this, Bharatha with great sorrow, eyes full of tears and with tottering voice replied. 90.14

"I am completely lost if even venerable persons like you think about me like this. Please do not rebuke me like this suspecting a fault on my part." 90.15

"What my mother told in my absence is not to my liking. I am not pleased with her words and I do not accept them." 90.16

"I have come here to please that tiger among men by some strategy and take him back to Ayodhya after prostrating him." 90.17

"In these circumstances, Oh sage, be pleased to show your kindness to me and be pleased to tell me the whereabouts of Rama, as of now." 90.18

That god like saint further entreated by Vasishta and other sages, after getting pleased with Bharatha addressed him like this. 90.19

"Oh tiger among men, your behaviour with your teachers, your control over your senses and your wish to follow people with virtue are appropriate to you as you are born in the clan of Raghu." 90.20

"I was aware of your mind and in spite of that questioned you, so that your reply would increase your fame." 90.21

"I know where Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana lives. Your brother is living in the great mountain of Chithrakuta." 90.22

"You can go to that place tomorrow. And you may stay here along with your ministers. Oh very intelligent prince who is aware of Kama and Artha, please fulfill my desire." 90.23

Bharatha who is a man of noble vision assented and said "so be it", and then Bharatha decided to spend the night in that hermitage. 90.24

This is the end of Ninetieth Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

91. Bharadwaja's Hospitality to Bharatha

[Sage Bharadwaja then offers hospitality to Bharatha and his army. He summons several devas and a great feast is arranged. All the members of Bharatha's retinue enjoy that great feast.]

Seeing that the son of Kaikeyi has made up his mind to stay, the sage, invited him to stay there hospitably. 91.1

Bharatha addressing the sage told, "You have already offered us water to wash our feet as also made the welcome offering and so the hospitality suitable for forest has already been extended." 91.2

After that Bharadwaja with a gentle smile told, "I know you are full of love and are satisfied with whatever has been offered." 91.3

"I want to feed you as well as the army, as the form of my love to you, oh best among men." 91.4

"Oh best among men, why did you stop the army away from here? Why did you not approach me along with your army?" 91.5

Bharatha with folded hands addressing the sage whose penance is his wealth told him, "I did not approach you with the army as I was scared of you." 91.6

"Oh God like sage, the king or sons of the king should intentionally avoid the places of the sages." 91.7

"Oh god like sage, good horses, men, rutting mighty elephants, which occupy immense land usually follow me." 91.8

"Fearing that would damage your water source and leafy huts if they come in, I came alone without them." 91.9

When the great sage requested him to bring the army near him, Bharatha ordered the army to advance and come near the sage." 91.10

After entering the house of the fire sacrifice, after sipping water and wiping his body, he invoked Viswakarma to provide hospitality to the guests. 91.11

"I wish to provide hospitality. I invoke Thwashta who builds homes and Viswakarma to help me in this matter and make necessary arrangements." 91.12

"I invoke the three guardians of the world lead by Devendra as I would like to provide hospitality and request them to make necessary arrangements." 91.13

"Let all those rivers of the earth which flow towards east and flow towards west and in the sky, may come over here now." 91.14

"Let other rivers flow liquor made of date palm, others the well prepared Sura and yet others cool water tasting like sugarcane juice." 91.15

"I also call upon devas, Gandharwas, Viswavasus, haha, Huhu also goddesses belonging to the Gandharwas and Apsara clans." 91.16

I also invoke Gruthachi, Visvachi, Misrakesi, Alambusa, Nagadantha, Hema and Hima who reside on the mountain." 91.17

"I invoke all the Brahmacharini women who attend on Indra as well as Lord Brahma accompanied by Dumburu along with all their instruments. 91.18

"Let the Khubera's divine forest in the land of Kurus with leaves serving as cloths and ornaments, which bears fruits in the form of celestial women come here." 91.19

"Let the moon God give me excellent food, many kinds and varieties of eatables and food suitable, for chewing, sucking and licking." 91.20

"Let multi coloured garlands made of flowers freshly fallen from trees, wines and other drinks and meats of different kinds be provided." 91.21

The sage with incomparable luster in profound meditation and filled with the glow of penance, in conformity with the rules of Vedic chants told like this. 91.22

When the sage, facing east and in deep meditation, was requesting all this with folded palms, those gods summoned by him appeared before them one by one. 91.23

Then the wind after touching the Malaya as well as Durdura mountains and becoming most pleasant, cool and comfortable, the breeze blew cooling the sweat. 91.24

Then the celestial clouds showered rain of flowers. Sounds of the divine drums were being heard from all directions. 91.25

The gentle winds blew, hoards of Apsara women danced, the divine Gandharwas sang and notes came out from the stringed instrument Veena. 91.26

The sound with proper modulation and rhythm, which emanated from those musical instruments entered the ears of all being living on earth and the sky. 91.27

When the celestial sound pleasing the ears subsided, the army of Bharatha saw the very pretty creations of Viswakarma. 91.28

On every side for five yojanas [twenty miles] the ground had been leveled and covered with many grass lawns which resembled the glittering sapphires and cat's eye gems. 91.29

At that place Bilva, wood apple, Jack fruit, citrus, gooseberry and mango trees laden with fruits resembling ornaments had sprang up. 91.30

From the kingdom of Northern Kurus, a divine river, which was the delight of heaven, bordered by very many trees came in to existence. 91.31

A splendid quadrangle of four buildings, stables for horses and elephants, and auspicious arch ways for palaces and mansions suddenly sprung up. 91.32

A royal palace white like the autumn clouds, with splendid archways, decorated by divine garlands, perfumed with divine scents, with a spacious quadrangle, furnished with couches, seats and coaches sprang up there. Several kind of celestial drinks, delicious food in sterling containers, very good dresses and every variety of food, in clean and well kept vessels was stocked in that palace. Inside seats were arranged for everyone and there were in it magnificent couches with very good spreads. 91.33-91.35

The mighty armed son of Kaikeyi Bharatha, having been permitted by the sage, entered the palace stocked with treasures. 91.36

He was accompanied by the priests and ministers and they were filled with joy on seeing the arrangements made inside. 91.37

There they saw an exquisite throne, fan made of Yak's tail and Parasol an Bharatha and his ministers went round it like kings. 91.38

Bharatha bowed to the throne as if Rama was seated there and seated himself in the minister's seat fanned the thrown with yak tail fan. 91.39

The ministers and priests occupied their seats in proper order of importance and next to the chief of army, the supervisor of the camp sat. 91.40

As per the order of Bharadwaja, immediately rivers of Payasam [Kheer] started flowing towards Bharatha. 91.41

On the two banks of the river, celestial and charming houses appeared by the grace of Lord Brahma. 91.42

Within no time, twenty thousand well decorated and well ornamented women came there by the grace of Lord Brahma. 91.43

Shining in gold ornaments, gems, corals and pearls twenty thousand women sent by Khubera came. 91.44

Twenty thousand pretty Apasara women, who would make men who take them in to hands delirious with passion came from Nandana. 91.45

Thereafter the distinguished Narada, Dumburu and Gopa and the kings of Gandharwas who were shining like the sun started singing in the presence of Bharatha. 91.46

As per the orders of Bharadwaja, Alambusha, Misrakesi, Pundarika and Vamana danced the Bharathanatya. 91.47

As per the orders of Bharadwaja, those garlands of devas as well as that of Chaithraratha gardens were found in Prayaga. 91.48

As per the command of Bharadwaja Bilwa trees started playing drums, palm trees started playing cymbal and Peepal trees started dancing. 91.49

Thereafter Pine and Palmyrah trees, even great Tilaka trees, Naktha trees that bear flowers at night, became short and were transformed in to hunchbacks and they all moved, here and there. 91.50

Asoka trees and Gooseberry trees from the forest and creepers like jasmine, Mallika, Jaaji and all others took the form of women came to the hermitage of Bharadwaja and said. 91.51

"Oh people who drink Sura drink as much as Sura as you want, and all those who are hungry eat Payasam [Kheer] and meat offered in fire sacrifices." 91.52-91.53

Seven or eight woman, one by one rubbed the body of each man, bathed them in the banks of that river and they were greatly delighted. 91.54

Some women with sparkling eyes speedily approached them for massaging and some other chosen ladies wiped away water from their bodies and gave each other wine to drink. 91.55

The attendants of vehicles fed meals to horses, elephants, donkeys, camels, calves of cows as per their need as and as per the rule. 91.56

Those energetic people who were warriors of Ikshuvaku kings, made the animals that pull the vehicles, eat more and more and made them eat parched grain, with sugarcane and honey. 91.57

The horse riders were not able to recognize their horses, the mahout did not recognize his elephant and the whole army which was fully drunk forgot everything and shined. 91.58

After gratifying all their desires and after applying red sandal paste all over the body and surrounded by Apsara ladies, those army men exclaimed. 91.59

"We will not go to Ayodhya nor will we go to Dandaka. Welfare to Bharatha and Rama have a pleasant life." 91.60

The soldiers of Infantry and cavalry, who after enjoying the hospitality of Bharadwaja, no longer recognizing their leaders also made such utterances. 91.61

Those men who were followers of Bharatha who were in thousands highly delighted shouted "This is heaven" 91.62

Those soldiers danced, laughed as well as sang and ran about all over wearing thousands of garlands. 91.63

Those who had already eaten that nectar like food, when saw that divine food again, wanted to eat once more. 91.64

Thousands of servants, slave girls, female attendants, army attendants dressed in matchless dresses were greatly proud of themselves. 91.65

There the elephants, donkeys, camels, cows, horses, beasts and birds were well fed, and each of them did not trouble the other. 91.66

No one in the army was wearing dirty dresses or themselves dirty or hungry and no one was having dust on their body or with unkempt hair. 91.67

There the men were surprised to see goat meat, boar meat, choicest condiments, various fragrant and tasty fruit juices, soups, white rice, in thousands of metal containers. 91.68-91.69

Along the border of the forest wells were filled with Payasam and there were wish fulfilling cows and honey dripping trees. 91.70

Other wells were filled with date palm liquor, surrounded by pots of well cooked meat of peacock, chicken and deer. 91.71

There were vessels in thousands, plates and tumblers in lakhs, golden vessels, cups and well cleaned pots made of earth and jars with wide mouth. 91.72

Tanks were filled with sweet curds of good flavour with the colour of wood apple which were blended with spices, some more tanks filled with Payasam and some filled with sweet prepared out of barley powder. 91.73 -91.74

The army men saw in bathing Ghats of rivers bathing powders and powder extracts in containers and different kind of bathing requisites. 91.75

There the soldiers saw on all sides stacks of tooth cleaning sticks, white and bristled, white lumps of sandal wood paste placed in dishes made of leaves, well cleaned mirrors, collection of clothes, several pairs of foot wear, collyrium boxes, combs, brushes for cleaning moustaches, weapons, parasoles, bows and shining armour, different kinds of couches, and seats. There were pools of drinking water for donkeys, camels, elephants and horses and excellent landing places filled with flowering lotuses and water lilies. The lakes were of transparent waters resembling the hue of the sky and easy, comfortable for swimming. There they saw soft hears of grass as green as sapphire and Nipa trees for the animals to refresh. 91.76-91.80

Those men were surprised by the great hospitality extended by sage Bharadwaja to Bharatha and felt as if they were in the world of dreams. 91.81

When they were enjoying like this like devas in garden of Indra, in the pretty hermitage of Bharadwaja, the night passed away. 91.82

Those rivers reverted back to the normal state, Gandharwas and those lovely women returned back after taking leave from saint Bharadwaja. 91.83

Those men were greatly intoxicated by the liquor and were smeared with divine Agaru and sandal paste, petals of flowers from the crushed divine garlands were strewn helter-skelter. 91.84

This is the end of Ninety First Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.

92. Bharatha's Chithrakuta Journey

[Bharatha enquires the sage about where Rama is staying. The saint tells him about Chithrakuta and gives him directions to reach there. Bharatha introduces his mothers to the sage and later they all leave towards Chithrakuta.]

Thereafter greatly satisfied with the hospitality Bharatha and his men and after spending the night approached sage Bharadwaja with a desire to know about Rama. 92.1

The sage who had completed the morning fire ritual saw the tiger among men who had arrived with folded hands and asked him. 92.2

"Oh sinless Bharatha, At our place did you pass the night pleasantly? Please tell me whether you and your men were satisfied with the hospitality." 92.3

Bharatha with folded hands saluted and prostrating that sage with matchless powers who has emerged out of his hermitage said. 92.4

"Oh God like sage, I along with all my ministers with the entire army as well as beasts are satisfied and fulfilled all our desires." 92.5

"All of us including even our servants freed from fatigue and heat were well nourished and well housed, we passed the night comfortably." 92.6

"Oh God like sage, oh great sage, I will take leave of you with love. And I am going to see my brother. Please look at me with friendly eyes." 92.7

"Oh follower of Dharma, please tell me the location of the hermitage of my brother who is magnanimous and steeped in Dharma. How far is it from here and how to reach that place?" 92.8

Enquired like this by Bharatha, who desired to see his brother, the greatly lustrous Bharadwaja who has done great penance replied. 92.9

"Oh Bharatha, about seven miles from here, through the lonely forest with charming forests and wood lands is Chithrakuta mountain." 92.10

"Once you reach its northern side of the forest you will see the Mandakini river covered flowering trees and lovely blossoming woods." 92.11

"Oh dear child, beyond that river is Chithrakuta mountain, and on it there is a leafy hut and it certain that both of them are living there." 92.12

"Oh chief of the army, Oh great one, if you take your army consisting of horses, elephants and chariots to the southerly direction to the south west through this path, you will find Rama soon there." 92.13

Having heard of the particulars of their journey, the wives of the king of kings Dasaratha got down from their chariots and stood around that Brahmin, Bharadwaja. 92.14

Kausalya who was thin, trembling, and depressed along with Sumithra with her hands caught the feet of that great sage. 92.15
Kaikeyi with unfulfilled desire and being despised by the entire world, overcome with great shame also caught his feet. 92.16

Then she with reverence went round with a depressed heart, that great sage and stood not far away from Bharatha. 92.17

Bharadwaja who was very firm in his penance asked Bharatha, "I would like to know in detail, individually about your mothers." 92.18

Hearing these words of the sagacious Bharadwaja, Bharatha who was an expert in speech answered with folded hands. 92.19

"Oh God like sage, this is the goddess Kausalya the principal queen of my father looking desolate and emaciated due to sorrow and fasting. Similar to Adhithi bearing Dhatha, she gave birth to Rama, the best among men who walks like lion." 92.20-92.21

"This lady with a sorrowing mind who resembles the branch of Karnika tree which is with withered blossoms in the middle of forest, Who leans on the left arm of Kausalya is Sumithra and Lakshmana and Shatrugna who resemble the devas in beauty and who are greatly valorous are her sons." 92.22-92.23

'She is one who lead to the destruction of life of the tiger among men and due to her King Dasaratha went to heaven, without his son by his side. She gets angry, does not know how to discriminate between good and bad, proud about her beauty, desires for wealth, is not lady like but is in the guise of a lady. She is my mother who is wicked, determined to do sinful deeds and only due to her, I am seeing this sorrow." 92.24-92.26

Saying this, the tiger among men with reddish eyes and angry like a serpent, spoke words hissing like a serpent, choked with rears and took laboured breath. 92.27

When Bharatha told like this to the great saint Bharadwaja, that man with great intelligence replied to him thus. 92.28

"Oh Bharatha, you should not impute these faults on Kaikeyi, for Rama's travel would lead to great pleasure in the future." 92.29

"Due to travel of Rama, only good will come to devas, asuras, sages and purified souls." 92.30

Bharatha after saluting him, went round him and summoned the army and ordered them to get ready. 92.31

Afterwards different type of people getting ready for the journey harnessed excellent horse chariots plated with gold. 92.32

Wearing golden chains and flags both the he and she elephants started on their journey making sounds like thunder clouds at end of summer. 92.33

Carriages small and big of various kinds and of great value started on their journey and infantry started walking. 92.34

Thereafter Kausalya and other distinguished ladies travelled with joy in great carriages with a view to see Rama. 92.35

Bharatha started his journey in an auspicious palanquin shining like the morning sun as well as the full moon which was kept ready, with attendants preceding him. 92.36

The collection of horses, elephants and chariots and the vast army travelled towards south spreading like a huge cloud that has arisen in the sky going through forests visited by birds and animals and passed through mountains and streams on to the other side of Ganga. 92.37-92.38

With soldiers, horses and elephants in high spirits frightening birds and beasts Bharatha's army entered the great forest and looked splendid. 92.39

This is the end of Ninety Second Sarga of Ayodhya Kanda which occurs in Holy Ramayana composed by Valmiki as the First Epic.