"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""

*
AYODHY-K NA
*
501
n r r fa n r+
at f far r; rr r;+.+
f ff r fr t-t ffa -r; farf t-t+
rf fa rr t- a nra frr+.-+
f r t-r a a rfa t-r+
fq f rr rf n r rr+.+
Cau.: npatanu beda bidita anhavv, parama bicitra bimnu banv.
gahi pada bharata mtu saba rkh, rah

rni darasana abhil.1.

cadana agara bhra bahu e, amita aneka sugadha suhe.
saraju tra raci cit ban, janu surapura sopna suh.2.
ehi bidhi dha kriy saba knh, bidhivata nhi tiljuli dnh.
sodhi sumti saba beda purn, knha bharata dasagta bidhn.3.
jaha jasa munibara yasu dnh, taha tasa sahasa bh

ti sabu knh.
bhae bisuddha die saba dn, dhenu bji gaja bhana nn.4.
He had the kings body washed in accordance with the Vedic rites and caused a
most splendid funeral bier to be prepared for him. Clasping the feet of his mothers
Bharata prevented them (from ascending the funeral pile); they all stayed behind in the
hope of seeing r Rma. There arrived many loads of sandal-wood and aloes and
diverse other excellent aromatic herbs of untold varieties. The pile was raised in an
artistic way on the bank of the Sarayu river, and looked like a lovely ladder reaching to
heaven. In this way all the rites of cremation were gone through and then the funeral
party bathed with due ceremony and offered a handful of water and sesame seeds to the
departed soul. After ascertaining the views of all the Smti texts, the Vedas and the
Puras Bharata performed the ceremony of Daagtra.* Whatever orders the great
sage Vasiha gave on a particular point Bharata carried out all of them in a thousand
ways. He bestowed all sorts of gifts on attaining purity. He gave away cows, horses,
elephants and conveyances of various sorts (14)
0frrr r f r
f a f f f r+ {+
Do.: sighsana bhuana basana anna dharani dhana dhma,
die bharata lahi bhumisura bhe paripurana kma.170.
And even so thrones, ornaments and costumes, foodgrains, lands, money and
houses; and the Brhmaas had all their desires fulfilled on receiving them. (170)
0fa fa a tf- f t r r r; f t+
f rf f a r f r rr+.{+
rr r; rf a rs r;+
a f f r tfa sr+.+
* The ceremony consists in offering to the departed soul a ball of boiled rice on each of the ten days
following the cremation of the deceased.
The Hindus believe that the agnates and certain other relations of a deceased remain impure for a
number of days and get purified only after the prescribed period is over.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
502
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
r f t ; f tf- f t+
a - rr f a ff frr+.-+
a r n t r s fr+
f f tfa rt r n f rt+.+
Cau.: pitu hita bharata knhi jasi karan, so mukha lkha ji nahi

baran.
sudinu sodhi munibara taba e, saciva mahjana sakala bole.1.
baihe rjasabh

saba j, pahae boli bharata dou bh.

bharatu basiha nikaa baihre, nti dharamamaya bacana ucre.2.
prathama kath saba munibara baran, kaikai kuila knhi jasi karan.
bhupa dharamabratu satya sarh, jehi

tanu parihari premu nibh.3.
kahata rma guna sla subh u, sajala nayana pulakeu munir u.
bahuri lakhana siya prti bakhn, soka saneha magana muni gyn.4.
Whatever rites Bharata performed for the benefit of his father (in the other world)
were more than a hundred thousand tongues could recount. Then, after determining an
auspicious date the great sage (Vasiha) came and summoned all the ministers as well
as the elite of the city. They all repaired to the council chamber and sat there. The two
brothers, Bharata and atrughna, were also sent for. Vasiha seated Bharata by his
side and spoke to him words full of wisdom and piety. First of all the great sage repeated
the whole story of Kaikeys wily doing and paid his tribute to the vow of piety and
truthfulness of King Daaratha, who remained true to his love even at the cost of his life.
And as the great hermit spoke of r Rmas virtues, amiability and kind disposition tears
came to his eyes and a thrill ran through his body. Again, when he extolled the affection
that Lakmaa and St bore (towards Rma), the enlightened sage was overwhelmed
with grief and emotion. (14)
0 a rt ff s fr
rf r t ff r+ {{+
Do.: sunahu bharata bhv prabala bilakhi kaheu munintha,
hni lbhu jvanu maranu jasu apajasu bidhi htha.171.
Listen, Bharata: formidable is fate! the lord of sages sorrowfully exclaimed. Loss
and gain, life and death, glory and infamyall these lie in the hands of Providence. (171)
0 frf f ; r rf tf r+
ara fr= rt r rn rt +.{+
rf f r ftr af f f tr+
rf fa r tfa rr f r f r rr+.+
rf r r faf f nfa r+
rf f rt rf r nrt+.-+
rf f fa rt f f ;-rrt+
rf f a f; r f n r ;+.+
Cau.: asa bicri kehi deia dosu, byaratha khi para kjia ros u.
tta bicru karahu mana mh

, soca jogu dasarathu npu nh

.1.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
503
socia bipra jo beda bihn, taji nija dharamu biaya layaln.
socia npati jo nti na jn, jehi na praj priya prna samn.2.
socia bayasu kpana dhanavn u, jo na atithi siva bhagati sujn u.
socia s udru bipra avamn, mukhara mnapriya gyna gumn.3.
socia puni pati bacaka nr, kuila kalahapriya icchcr.
socia bau nija bratu parihara, jo nahi

gura yasu anusara.4.

Arguing thus, whom should we blame? And with whom should we be angry
without any cause? Ponder in your heart, my son, that King Daaratha is not worth
grieving for. Pitiable is the Brhmaa who is ignorant of the Vedas, and who has
abandoned his own duty and is engrossed in the pleasures of sense; pitiable the king
who has no knowledge of politics and who does not love his people as his own life:
pitiable the Vaiya (a member of the trading class) who is niggardly though rich, and
who is not perfect in hospitality nor in devotion to Lord iva; pitiable the udra (a
member of the labouring or artisan class) who is disrespectful towards the Brhmaas,
loquacious and proud of his knowledge and loves to be honoured. Pitiable, again, is the
woman who deceives her own husband, is crooked and quarrelsome and follows her
own will; pitiable the religious student who breaks his vow and obeys not the orders
of his preceptor. (14)
0rf nt r r ; -rn
rf at a fna f frn+.{+
Do.: socia gh jo moha basa karai karama patha tyga,
socia jat prapaca rata bigata bibeka birga.172.
Nay, pitiable is the householder who out of ignorance forsakes the path of duty,
and pitiable the recluse who is attached to the world and lacks discretion and
dispassion. (172)
0r r; r rn a fr; f r; rn+
rf f r rt f n frt+.{+
ff rf rt f a r f rt+
rt t ff r; r rfz f r;+.+
rt f rr rf n r+
s ; rfrr a far arrr+.-+
ff f = fa ffrr f n nrr+.+
Cau.: baikhnasa soi socai jogu, tapu bihi jehi bhvai bhogu.
socia pisuna akrana krodh, janani janaka gura badhu birodh.1.
saba bidhi socia para apakr, nija tanu poaka niradaya bhr.
socanya sabah

bidhi so, jo na chRi chalu hari jana ho.2.
socanya nahi

kosalar u, bhuvana cridasa pragaa prabhu.

bhayau na ahai na aba honihr, bh upa bharata jasa pit tumhr.3.
bidhi hari haru surapati disinth, baranahi

saba dasaratha guna gth.4.
Pitiable is the anchorite who has given up penance and developed a liking for
luxuries; pitiable the backbiter who is angry without cause and an enemy of his own
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
504
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
parents, preceptor and brothers. Pitiable in everyway is he who harms others, cherishes
his own body and is exceedingly heartless. And pitiable in every respect is he who is
not sincerely devoted to r Hari. The lord of Kosala is not worth grieving for, his glory
being manifest through all the fourteen spheres. There never was, nor is, nor shall be
hereafter, a monarch like your father, Bharata. Brahm, Viu, iva, Indra (the lord of
celestials) and the guardians of the quarters, all sing praises of King Daaratha. (14)
0 ara f rfa rs ff zr; ar
r ar r f f r+ {-+
Do.: kahahu tta kehi bh

ti kou karihi baR tsu,

rma lakhana tumha satruhana sarisa suana suci jsu.173.
Tell me, dear child, who can glorify him who begot such pious sons as Rma,
Lakmaa, atrughna and yourself? (173)
0 r fa zrnt rf fr f af rnt+
f fr r f f f r r +.{+
r r ar t-r far rf t-r+
a r f f rnt a fs r frnt+.+
f f f f rr ara fa rr+
t f r; ; ar rfa r;+.-+
r fa r rt rt ra r rt+
a rfaf fa r rr +.+
Cau.: saba prakra bhupati baRabhg, bdi bidu karia tehi lg.
yahu suni samujhi socu pariharah u, sira dhari rja rajyasu karah u.1.
rya rjapadu tumha kahu dnh, pit bacanu phura chia knh.
taje rmu jehi

bacanahi lg, tanu parihareu rma birahg.2.

npahi bacana priya nahi

priya prn, karahu tta pitu bacana pravn.

karahu ssa dhari bhupa raj, hai tumha kaha saba bh

ti bhal.3.
parasurma pitu agy rkh, mr mtu loka saba skh.
tanaya jajtihi jaubanu daya u, pitu agy

agha ajasu na bhaya u.4.

The king was blessed in everyway; it is no use mourning for him. Hearing and
realizing this, sorrow no more, and reverently obey the kings command. The king has
bestowed the kingship on you; it behoves you, therefore, to redeem the words of your
father who abandoned Rma for the sake of his word and quitted his body in his anguish
of separation from Rma. The king did not love his own life as he did his word; therefore,
dear son, redeem your fathers word. Reverently obey the kings command; this will do
you good in everyway. Paraurma executed the command of his father and killed his
own mother: the whole world will bear testimony to this fact. Yaytis son (Puru)*
* King Yayti had won the hand of Devayn, daughter of ukrcrya (preceptor of the demon kings).
Devayn having one complained to her father of the kings infidelity, ukrcrya pronounced on him a curse
as a result of which he became old and infirm before time. Having been propitiated by him through
supplication and entreaty, however, the sage allowed the king to borrow the youth of another in exchange for his
own old age should anyone be willing to part with it. The king thereupon sought the help of his sons, but the first
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
505
exchanged his own youth for the old age of his father and incurred no sin or blame
because he did so in obedience to his fathers command. (14)
0fa sfa fr= af rf fa
a r f fa + {+
Do.: anucita ucita bicru taji je plahi

pitu baina,
te bhjana sukha sujasa ke basahi

amarapati aina.174.
Those who cherish their fathers word, minding not whether it is reasonable or
otherwise, attain happiness and fair renown and dwell in the abode of Indra (the lord of
immortals). (174)
0f r r r f+
r;f far ar a f r+.{+
ffa a t r f fa ; r r; tr+
r f nrt r r fa rt+.+
f r t fa fza t+
rrf art as r rf rt+.-+
arr r rff r ff ar rff+
r r r r r+.+
Cau.: avasi naresa bacana phura karah u, plahu praj soku pariharah u.
surapura npu pihi paritou, tumha kahu suktu sujasu nahi

dou.1.
beda bidita samata sabah k, jehi pitu dei so pvai k.
karahu rju pariharahu galn, mnahu mora bacana hita jn.2.
suni sukhu lahaba rma baideh

, anucita kahaba na paita keh

.
kausalydi sakala mahatr

, teu praj sukha hohi

sukhr

.3.
parama tumhra rma kara jnihi, so saba bidhi tumha sana bhala mnihi.
sau pehu rju rma ke e , sev karehu saneha suhe .4.
Therefore, you needs must redeem the kings word; cherish your subjects and
cease to grieve. The king in heaven will derive solace, while you will earn merit and good
fame and shall incur no blame. It is well known in the Vedas and has the sanction of all
that the crown goes to him on whom the father bestows it. Therefore, rule the kingdom,
feel no remorse and accept my advice as salutary. Rma and Videhas daughter (St)
will be gratified when they hear of it and no wise man will call it wrong. Kausaly and all
the other mothers too will be happy in the happiness of the people. Nay, he who will know
the supreme affinity between you and Rma will have perfect goodwill towards you.
When Rma returns home you may hand over the kingdom to him and serve him with
ideal affection. (14)
four of them declined. It was only the fifth and youngest son, Puru, who willingly parted with his own youth and
accepted the old age of his father. After enjoying life for a few more years Yayti got disgusted with the world and
retired to the woods, returning the youth of his youngest son and crowning him king in preference to his elder
brothers, who had all disappointed him. Even though Yayti had made use of his sons youth in enjoying life with
his mother, the son incurred no sin because he had agreed to this arrangement only to please his father and
made a unique sacrifice for his sake.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
506
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
0tf n r f f f rf
rrfa r sfa a a rf+ {~+
Do.: kjia gura yasu avasi kahahi

saciva kara jori,

raghupati e ucita jasa tasa taba karaba bahori.175.
The ministers submitted with joined palms: You needs must obey the order of
your preceptor. When the Lord of Raghus comes back, you may do what you think fit
then. (175)
0rr f t ; a n r ;+
r rf f fa rt af fr r nfa rt+.{+
rrfa fa r ar f rfa ara r+
f r f r art a r+.+
f ff r r fr; t ra f r;+
f f n r r rf f +.-+
n f f a f fa +
t rf ra rt t rt+.+
Cau.: kausaly dhari dhraju kahai, p uta pathya gura yasu aha.
so daria karia hita mn, tajia bidu kla gati jn.1.
bana raghupati surapati naranh u, tumha ehi bh

ti tta kadarh u.
parijana praj saciva saba ab, tumhah suta saba kaha avalab.2.
lakhi bidhi bma klu kahin, dhraju dharahu mtu bali j.
sira dhari gura yasu anusarah u, praj pli parijana dukhu harah u.3.
gura ke bacana saciva abhinadanu, sune bharata hiya hita janu cadanu.
sun bahori mtu mdu bn, sla saneha sarala rasa sn.4.
Summoning courage Kausaly said, Salutary, my son, is your Gurus command;
the same should be respected and obeyed by you as conducive to your good. Cease
to grieve realizing the vicissitudes of life. The Lord of Raghus is in the forest and the king
is lording it over the gods (in heaven); while you, my son, are thus giving way to faint-
heartedness. You, my child, are the only support of all including your family, subjects,
ministers and all your mothers. Perceiving the antipathy of God and the relentlessness
of fate, I adjure you by my life to have courage. Reverently obey your Gurus command,
cherish your subjects and relieve the affliction of your family. Bharata listened to the
advice of his preceptor and the ministers, appeal endorsing the same, which were as
soothing to his heart as sandal-paste. He further heard the mothers soft words imbued
with the nectar of amiability, affection and guilelessness. (14)
U0rt ra rt f a r
r r= na ta f s +
r r a af ft f f t
at ra r t t+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
507
cha.: sn sarala rasa mtu bn suni bharatu bykula bhae,
locana saroruha sravata s

cata biraha ura akura nae.

so das dekhata samaya tehi bisar sabahi sudhi deha k,
tulas sarhata sakala sdara sva sahaja saneha k.
Bharata grew restless when he heard mother Kausalys speech imbued as it was
with the nectar of sincerity. His lotus eyes shed tears that watered the fresh shoots of
desolation in his heart. All those who saw his condition at that time forgot their own
existence. Everyone, says Tulasdsa; reverently extolled him as the perfection of
artless love.
0a rf t t f
f rf a sfa s-r f+ {+
So.: bharatu kamala kara jori dhra dhuradhara dhra dhari,
bacana amia janu bori deta ucita uttara sabahi.176.
Joining his lotus palms, Bharata, who was foremost among the strong-minded,
took courage and proceeded to give fitting replies to all in words steeped as it were in
nectar. (176)
0rf s t- n tr r f a t r+
ra sfa f r t-r f t f rs t-r+.{+
n fa ra trf fa rt f fa f f rt+
sfa f fa f fr= r; f ra r=+.+
ar a f r; r ra r r;+
uf ra s t af ra far t +.-+
ar f rf f rf a fr +
a= s r fa r n nf r+.+
Cau.: mohi upadesu dnha gura nk, praj saciva samata sabah k.
mtu ucita dhari yasu dnh, avasi ssa dhari chau knh.1.
gura pitu mtu svmi hita bn, suni mana mudita karia bhali jn.
ucita ki anucita kie bicru, dharamu ji sira ptaka bhr u.2.
tumha tau dehu sarala sikha so, jo carata mora bhala ho.
jadyapi yaha samujhata hau nke , tadapi hota paritou na j ke .3.
aba tumha binaya mori suni lehu, mohi anuharata sikhvanu dehu.
utaru deu chamaba apardh u, dukhita doa guna ganahi

na sdhu.4.
[PAUSE 18 FOR A THIRTY-DAY RECITATION]
My preceptor has given me excellent advice, which has been endorsed by my
subjects, ministers and all. Mother (Kausaly) too has enjoined on me what she has
thought fit and which I certainly wish to carry out with reverence. The advice of ones
preceptor, parents, master and friend ought to be acted upon with a cheerful heart as
conducive to ones good. By pausing to think whether it is right or wrong one fails in
ones duty and incurs a load sin. You are surely giving me sincere advice which, if
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
508
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
followed, will do me good. Even though I fully realize this, my heart is not satisfied. Now
hear my request and give me advice that may suit me. Forgive me my presumption in
returning an answer to you; for good people reckon not the virtues or faults of the
distressed. (14)
0fa f r rf r
f a r r fa r z r+ {+
Do.: pitu surapura siya rmu bana karana kahahu mohi rju,
ehi te jnahu mora hita kai pana baRa kju.177.
My father is in heaven and both St and Rma are in the woods, whereas you
ask me to rule the kingdom. Do you think this will do me good or you expect some
unusual gain to yourself from this arrangement? (177)
0fa r ffa r; r f t- ra fr;+
rf t rt r sr r fa rt +.{+
r r r f r f f +
rf f r= rf ffa f zr fr=+.+
= t rf rnr f fnfa r rnr+
r t f r; rf r f rrr;+.-+
rs r f r f r r fa +
rf f r rs zar +.+
Cau.: hita hamra siyapati sevak

, so hari lnha mtu kuil

.
mai

anumni dkha mana mh

, na upya mora hita nh

.1.
soka samju rju kehi lekhe , lakhana rma siya binu pada dekhe .
bdi basana binu bhuana bhr u, bdi birati binu brahma bicr u.2.
saruja sarra bdi bahu bhog, binu haribhagati jya japa jog.
jya jva binu deha suh, bdi mora sabu binu raghur.3.
ju rma pahi

yasu dehu, ekahi

ka mora hita eh u.
mohi npa kari bhala pana cahah u, sou saneha jaRat basa kahahu.4.
My good lies in the service of r Rma, although I have been deprived of that
privilege through my mothers perversity. I have pondered in my heart and realized that
my good lies in no other way. Of what account is this kingdom, which is nothing but an
abode of sorrow, when the feet of Lakmaa, Rma and St are no longer to be seen?
A load of jewels is of no use without clothes; an enquiry about Brahma (the Absolute)
is of little use without dispassion; abundant enjoyments are of no use to a diseased body;
of little use are Japa (muttering of prayers) and Yoga (exercises of mind-control) without
devotion to r Hari. A handsome body is of no use without life and all I have is naught
without the Lord of Raghus. Grant me leave to go where Rma is; my good exclusively
lies in this. And if you urge that you seek your own good by crowning me king, you say
so only through ignorance caused by affection. (14)
0; ffa r f nar
ar ra r rf r+ {c+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
509
Do.: kaike sua kuilamati rma bimukha gatalja,
tumha chata sukhu mohabasa mohi se adhama ke rja.178.
It is through infatuation that you expect happiness from the reign of a wretch like
me, who is Kaikeys son, of perverted intellect, hostile to Rma and lost to shame. (178)
0s r f far rf t r+
rf r f ; t r ra r;f at+.{+
rf r r r fr f fn t r r+
r r r t-r fa n t-r+.+
a ra s a+
f rrt frf r r f n sr+.-+
r ta f = r f rn +
fn r z fr; ff f f t zr;+.+
Cau.: kahau s

cu saba suni patih u, chia dharamasla naranhu.

mohi rju hahi deihahu jabah

, ras rastala jihi tabah

.1.
mohi samna ko ppa nivs u, jehi lagi sya rma banabs u.
rya rma kahu knanu dnh, bichurata gamanu amarapura knh.2.
mai

sahu saba anaratha kara het u, baiha bta saba sunau sacet u.
binu raghubra biloki abs u, rahe prna sahi jaga upahs u.3.
rma punta biaya rasa r ukhe, lolupa bh umi bhoga ke bh ukhe.
kaha lagi kahau hdaya kahin, nidari kulisu jehi

lah baR.4.
I tell you the truth: you should all listen and believe what I say. A virtuous man
alone should be crowned as king. The moment you instal me on the throne perforce the
earth will sink into the lowest depths. Who is such an inveterate sinner as I, on whose
account St and Rma have been exiled into the forest? The king sent Rma into exile
and himself ascended to heaven the moment the latter left him. My wretched self, which
is the root of all evil, is sitting quietly and hears all talk unmoved. Even though I find the
palace without Rma, I have survived and endured the worlds jeers. Devoid of attraction
for r Rma, who is a sacred object of love, my soul is rapacious and hungers for land
(dominion) and enjoyment. I have no words to depict the cruelty of my heart that has
attained notoriety by surpassing even adamant. (14)
0r a r f r; r f r
f ft a s a r r r+ {+
Do.: krana te kraju kahina hoi dosu nahi

mora,
kulisa asthi te upala te loha karla kahora.179.
An effect is as a rule harder than its cause and I am not to blame for it. The
thunderbolt* is more formidable and harder than bone (of which it was made) and iron
than rock (from which it is quarried). (179)
* The story as to how the thunderbolt was made out of the bones of the philanthropic sage Dadhci
(who gave up his life in the interest of the gods) has been told in the account of this sage, which appears in the
footnote below the Caups following Doh 29 above.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
510
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
0; a rn r r rrr; rn+
f f r f rn a rn+.{+
r f t-r ; fa fa t-r+
t- f r t-s f r ar+.+
rf t- r t- ; r+
f a r r tr af ar tr+.-+
; f n rt rf fa rt+
rf ra fff r; r r a r;+.+
Cau.: kaike bhava tanu anurge, pva ra prna aghi abhge.
jau priya biraha prna priya lge, dekhaba sunaba bahuta aba ge.1.
lakhana rma siya kahu banu dnh, pahai amarapura pati hita knh.
lnha bidhavapana apajasu pu, dnheu prajahi soku satpu.2.
mohi dnha sukhu sujasu surju, knha kaika

saba kara kju.

ehi te mora kha aba nk, tehi para dena kahahu tumha k.3.
kaikai jahara janami jaga mh

, yaha mohi kaha kachu anucita nh

.
mori bta saba bidhihi

ban, praj p

ca kata karahu sah.4.

Clinging to this body born of Kaikey, my wretched life is exceedingly unfortunate.
When life has been dear to me even though I have been torn from my beloved brother,
I shall have much to see and hear yet. Kaikey has sent Lakmaa, Rma and St into
exile and has done a good turn to her husband by despatching him to the abode of
immortals; she has taken widowhood and infamy upon herself and bestowed grief and
affliction on the people; and to me she has allotted happiness, good reputation and a
thriving kingdom; in this way she has served the interests of all. I cannot expect greater
good than this at present; over and above that you proclaim your intention to crown me
king. Since I have been born into this world through Kaikeys womb this is not at all
unbecoming of me. God Himself has accomplished everything for me; why, then, should
you all as well as the people help my cause? (14)
0n nta f ra af f tt r
af fr; r=t r sr+ {c+
Do.: graha grahta puni bta basa tehi puni bch mra,
tehi piia brun kahahu kha upacra.180.
If a man who is possessed by some evil spirit and is also affected by delirium and
has been further stung by a scorpion is given a cup of wine, tell me, what kind of
treatment is this? (180)
0; rn n r; a ff t- rf r;+
a r rr r; tf- rf ff rf zr;+.{+
ar r tr r r tr+
sa= s f ff f t r =f t+.+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
511
rf ra a fr; ff t- r;+
r f r r rt f f r rf rt+.-+
rf z r f r f r+
t ; sfa r +.+
Cau.: kaikai suana jogu jaga jo, catura biraci dnha mohi so.
dasaratha tanaya rma laghu bh, dnhi mohi bidhi bdi baR.1.
tumha saba kahahu kaRhvana k, rya rajyasu saba kaha nk.
utaru deu kehi bidhi kehi keh, kahahu sukhena jath ruci jeh.2.
mohi kumtu sameta bih, kahahu kahihi ke knha bhal.
mo binu ko sacarcara mh

, jehi siya rmu prnapriya nh

.3.
parama hni saba kaha baRa lhu, adinu mora nahi

d uana kh u.
sasaya sla prema basa ahah u, sabui ucita saba jo kachu kahah u.4.
God in His wisdom has ordained for me everything in this world that is worthy of
Kaikeys son. He has, however, bestowed on me in vain the honour of being a son of
king Daaratha and a younger brother of r Rma. All of you urge me to accept the
throne and the kings command is good for all. How shall I answer all individually? Let
everyone gladly say what one pleases. Barring me and my vile mother, tell me, who will
say the right thing has been done? Excepting myself who is there in the whole animate
and inanimate creation that does not love St and Rma as ones own life? What is most
baneful appears to you all as a mighty gain; this is my misfortune and none is to be
blamed for it. You are in the grip of doubt, amiability and affection; and whatever you all
say is right. (14)
0r ra f fa r ff
; r rf tar f+ {c{+
Do.: rma mtu suhi saralacita mo para premu bisei,
kahai subhya saneha basa mori dnat dekhi.181.
r Rmas mother (Kausaly) is most guileless of heart and loves me in a
special degree. Finding me in distress she has said all this under impulse of natural
affection. (181)
0n f rn n rr f-f ft rr+
r fa r r ff f f r+.{+
ff r t n rt rs ff r a rt+
r rt a t ar rt+.+
z= rf n ff f r r rf r+
; s rt rf fn f r rt+.-+
t r rr af r rr+
r rr rnt r r fars rnt+.+
Cau.: gura bibeka sgara jagu jn, jinhahi bisva kara badara samn.
mo kaha tilaka sja saja sou, bhae bidhi bimukha bimukha sabu ko u.1.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
512
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
parihari rmu sya jaga mh

, kou na kahihi mora mata nh

.
so mai

sunaba sahaba sukhu mn, atahu kca tah

jaha pn.2.
aru na mohi jaga kahihi ki pocu, paralokahu kara nhina soc u.
ekai ura basa dusaha davr, mohi lagi bhe siya rmu dukhr.3.
jvana lhu lakhana bhala pv, sabu taji rma carana manu lv.
mora janama raghubara bana lg, jh uha kha pachitu abhg.4.
My Guru (Vasiha) as all the world knows is an ocean of wisdom; the universe
is like a plum in the palm of his hand*. Even he is making preparations for my coronation;
when Fate is adverse, everyone else turns hostile. With the exception of r Rma and
St no one in this world will say the plot did not have my approval. All this I must hear
and endure with a cheerful heart; for wherever there is water mud must be there
eventually. I shudder not to think that the world will call me vile; and I have little anxiety
about the other world either. There is one terrible anguish that plagues my heart; it is that
St and Rma are suffering hardships on my account. Lakmaa has fully reaped the
reward of his existence; discarding everything else, he has fixed his mind on r Rmas
feet. As for myself I was born for r Rmas banishment; in vain do I lament, wretched
that I am. (14)
0rf r= tar s f f= r;
f rrr f f r;+ {c+
Do.: pani druna dnat kahau sabahi siru ni,
dekhe binu raghuntha pada jiya kai jarani na ji.182.
Bowing my head to all I lay open my terrible distress before you. Unless I behold
r Rmas feet the agony of my soul shall not go. (182)
0r srs rf f rr r f rr f rr+
f r ;; rt rar fs rt+.{+
uf rt rf r srt+
af rf t f ff r ft+.+
t f r r rrr+
f t- rr f uf rr+.-+
ar r r rt r rf rt+
f f f rf rt rf f r rt+.+
Cau.: na upu mohi nahi

sujh, ko jiya kai raghubara binu b ujh.

ekahi

ka ihai mana mh

, prtakla calihau prabhu ph

.1.
jadyapi mai

anabhala apardh, bhai mohi krana sakala updh.

tadapi sarana sanamukha mohi dekh, chami saba karihahi

kp bise.2.
sla sakuca suhi sarala subh u, kp saneha sadana raghuru.
arihuka anabhala knha na rm, mai

sisu sevaka jadyapi bm.3.

tumha pai p

ca mora bhala mn, yasu sia dehu subn.

jehi

suni binaya mohi janu jn, vahi

bahuri rmu rajadhn.4.

* It is an idiomatic way of saying that the secrets of the world are intimately known to him.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
513
I find no other remedy. Who else than the Chief of Raghus can know what passes
in my heart? There is only one resolve in my mind; at daybreak I must proceed to meet
the Lord. Even though I am a vile offender and am at the root of all troubles, yet when
the Lord finds me before him in a suppliant mien he will forgive all my faults and shower
his special grace on me. The Lord of Raghus is an embodiment of amiability, meekness,
extreme guilelessness of disposition, compassion and love. r Rma has never injured
even an enemy, to say nothing of me, a mere child and his servant too, though hostile
to him. Therefore, do allow me, all of you, to depart and bless me in an auspicious strain
knowing it to be for my good, so that on hearing my supplication and recognizing me as
his servant r Rma may return to his capital. (14)
0uf ra a r r
r rf -rfnf rf rrt r+ {c-+
Do.: jadyapi janamu kumtu te mai

sahu sad sadosa,

pana jni na tygihahi

mohi raghubra bharosa.183.

Though I am born of a wicked mother and am myself a rogue and ever guilty, I
am confident of Rma that he will never forsake me knowing me for his own. (183)
0a f rn r r rn+
rn frn f f rn r t a rn+.{+
ra f n rt f rt+
af f rf rt r fa a rt+.+
ara a r r r r f +
r r= t zar; arf nr; ra fr;+.-+
r rf = ar ff a far+
f rr n f f n; ; n rf ;+.+
Cau.: bharata bacana saba kaha priya lge, rma saneha sudh

janu pge.
loga biyoga biama bia dge, matra sabja sunata janu jge.1.
mtu saciva gura pura nara nr, sakala saneha bikala bhae bhr.
bharatahi kahahi

sarhi sarh, rma prema m urati tanu h.2.

tta bharata asa khe na kahah u, prna samna rma priya ahah u.
jo pva ru apan pjaRat

, tumhahi sugi mtu kuil

.3.
so sahu koika purua samet, basihi kalapa sata naraka niket.
ahi agha avaguna nahi

mani gaha, harai garala dukha drida daha.4.

Bharatas words pleased all, imbued as they were with the nectar of devotion
to r Rma. The people who had been burning with the deadly poison of separation
from r Rma were roused to their senses on hearing as it were a charm against
snake poison alongwith its seed-letter.* The mothers, the ministers, the preceptor
and the people of the city, all were overwhelmed with emotion. They praised Bharata
* According to the Tantras (a sacred literature dealing with the worship of deities) there are mystic
formulas sacred to every deity, which if repeated with genuine faith and in accordance with certain prescribed
rules help the realization of that deity. Every such Mantra has also got a Bja Mantra consisting of a single
letter with m added to it. This seed-letter, if prefixed to the Mantra itself, enhances its potency.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
514
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
again and again and said, Your body is the very personification of affection for r
Rma. It is no wonder that you should say so, dear Bharata, since you are dear
to Rma as his own life. The vile man who through his ignorance hates you because
of your mothers perversity, the wretch shall abide in hell for a hundred Kalpas (cycles)
with millions of his past generations. A gem on the head of a serpent is not affected
by the sins and faults of the serpent; on the other hand, it counteracts poison, sorrow
and indigence. (14)
0f f r a r t-
r f za f ar t-+ {c+
Do.: avasi calia bana rmu jaha bharata matru bhala knha,
soka sidhu buRata sabahi tumha avalabanu dnha.184.
Bharata, you have thought out a good plan; by all means let us proceed to the
woods where r Rma is. You have held out a helping hand to us all while we were
being drowned in an ocean of grief. (184)
0r r rr rr f f ra rr+
a ra f fs t a rf t +.{+
ff f af f= r; rr fr r;+
- a t n rt t ra rt +.+
f r z r rf r+
f rf rr rt r r; nf rt+.-+
rs f f r r ; n t r+.+
Cau.: bh saba ke mana modu na thor, janu ghana dhuni suni ctaka mor.
calata prta lakhi niranau nke, bharatu prnapriya bhe sabah ke.1.
munihi badi bharatahi siru n, cale sakala ghara bid kar.
dhanya bharata jvanu jaga mh

, slu sanehu sarhata jh

.2.
kahahi

parasapara bh baRa kju, sakala calai kara sjahi

sj u.
jehi rkhahi

rahu ghara rakhavr, so jnai janu garadani mr.3.

kou kaha rahana kahia nahi

kh u, ko na cahai jaga jvana lh u.4.

Everyone felt as great a joy as when the Ctaka birds and peacocks hear a clap
of thunder. When the people came to know Bharatas welcome resolve to start the very
next morning, they all began to love him as their own life. After reverencing the sage and
bowing their head to Bharata they all took leave and proceeded to their respective homes
praising as they went his amiability and affection and exclaiming, Blessed is Bharatas
life in this world! They said to one another, A great object has been accomplished!
Everyone began to make preparations for the journey. Whomsoever they left behind
saying You should stay behind to guard the house, felt as if he was smitten on the
neck. Someone said, Nobody should be asked to remain behind; who in this world
would not have the reward of his life? (14)
0s r fa z ra fa r;
ra r r r;+ {c~+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
515
Do.: jarau so sapati sadana sukhu suhda mtu pitu bhi,
sanamukha hota jo rma pada karai na sahasa sahi.185.
Perish that property, house, happiness, friend, father, mother or brother, who
does not gladly help one turn ones face towards r Rmas feet! (185)
0rr rr rf r rr z ra rr+
a r; rr t- fr= n= rf n zr=+.{+
fa rrfa rt f a af art+
a fr rf r; r frf r; rr;+.+
; trf fa r; rf ; f r;+
frf f r f zr+.-+
f rr r f r r af rr+
f a rf r r ra f a fr+.+
Cau.: ghara ghara sjahi

bhana nn, harau hdaya parabhta payn.

bharata ji ghara knha bicru, nagaru bji gaja bhavana bha r u.1.
sapati saba raghupati kai h, jau binu jatana calau taji th.
tau parinma na mori bhal, ppa siromani si

doh.2.
karai svmi hita sevaku so, d uana koi dei kina ko.
asa bicri suci sevaka bole, je sapanehu nija dharama na ole.3.
kahi sabu maramu dharamu bhala bh, jo jehi lyaka so tehi

rkh.
kari sabu jatanu rkhi rakhavre, rma mtu pahi

bharatu sidhre.4.
In every house they got ready vehicles of various kinds; their soul rejoiced at
the thought of starting early next morning. On reaching his own apartments Bharata
thought to himself: The city, horses, elephants, houses and the treasuryeverything
belongs to the Lord of Raghus. If I leave it unprotected, the result will not be good
for me; for disloyalty to ones master is the greatest of all sins. A servant is he who
serves the interests of his master, no matter if anyone brings millions of imputations
against him. Pondering thus he summoned faithful servants who had never dreamt
of flinching from their duty. Confiding to them all the secrets he taught them their
paramount duty and entrusted them with the work for which they were severally fit.
After making all arrangements and posting guards Bharata went to r Rmas mother
(Kausaly). (14)
0ra t rf a r
s r rt r r+ {c+
Do.: rata janan

jni saba bharata saneha sujna,

kaheu banvana plak

sajana sukhsana jna.186.

Knowing all the mothers in distress, Bharata, who understood the ways of love,
ordered palanquins to be got ready and sedan-chairs to be equipped. (186)
0a fa ff rt a ra s ra rt+
rna ff s frr a rr f rr+.{+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
516
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
s fa r f f rf r+
fn f f rr aa an rn r+.+
=at = fnf r f fr+
f f r rr a a frr+.-+
n rn f f rr fr t- rr+
ffr n rf rt f f a ; rt+.+
Cau.: cakka cakki jimi pura nara nr, cahata prta ura rata bhr.
jgata saba nisi bhayau bihn, bharata bole saciva sujn.1.
kaheu lehu sabu tilaka samju, banahi

deba muni rmahi rj u.

begi calahu suni saciva johre, turata turaga ratha nga sa vre.2.
arudhat aru agini sam u, ratha caRhi cale prathama munir u.
bipra bda caRhi bhana nn, cale sakala tapa teja nidhn.3.
nagara loga saba saji saji jn, citrak ua kaha knha payn.
sibik subhaga na jhi

bakhn, caRhi caRhi calata bha

saba rn.4.
Much afflicted at heart like the male and female Cakravka birds, the men and
women of the city longed for the dawn. They kept awake the whole night till it was
daybreak, when Bharata summoned his wise counsellors and said to them, Take all that
is necessary for the installations ceremony; the sage (Vasiha) will crown r Rma
even in the forest. Start expeditiously. Hearing this the ministers greeted him and had
the horses, chariots and elephants immediately equipped. Taking with him his wife,
Arundhat, and the requisites for Agnihotra* (offering oblations into the sacred fire) the
chief of sages, Vasiha, was the first to mount the chariot and led the way. Hosts of
Brhmaas, who were all repositories of austerity and spiritual glow followed in vehicles
of various kinds. The people of the city followed next; having equipped their own
conveyances they all left for Citrakua. All the queens journeyed in palanquins which
were lovely beyond words. (14)
0f n f f r r;
ff r f a a rs r;+ {c+
Do.: sau pi nagara suci sevakani sdara sakala cali,
sumiri rma siya carana taba cale bharata dou bhi.187.
Leaving the city in the charge of faithful servants and respectfully sending the
whole party ahead, the two brothers, Bharata and atrughna, started last of all,
remembering the feet of r Rma and St. (187)
0r rt f ff af rt+
f r fr rt r a r f rt +.{+
f rn rn saf n -rn+
r; t rf f zrt r ra rt rt+.+
* In ancient times, as a general rule, every Brhmaa maintained the sacred fire and kept it
perpetually alive till his death, when he was cremated with the same fire. He carried it with him wherever he
went and poured oblations into it every morning and evening.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
517
ara f art r;f f fr= rt+
ar a ff rn r f n rn+.-+
f f f= r; f a rs r;+
ar f f r nrfa at fr+.+
Cau.: rma darasa basa saba nara nr, janu kari karini cale taki br.
bana siya rmu samujhi mana mh

, snuja bharata paydehi

jh

.1.
dekhi sanehu loga anurge, utari cale haya gaya ratha tyge.
ji sampa rkhi nija ol, rma mtu mdu bn bol.2.
tta caRhahu ratha bali mahatr, hoihi priya parivru dukhr.
tumhare calata calihi sabu logu, sakala soka ksa nahi

maga jogu.3.
sira dhari bacana carana siru n, ratha caRhi calata bhae dou bh.
tamas prathama divasa kari bs u, d usara gomati tra nivs u.4.
Seized with a longing for the sight of r Rma, all the people, including both men
and women, headed with the same zeal as male and female elephants rush in pursuit
of water. Realizing in their heart that St and Rma were in the woods Bharata and
his younger brother journeyed on foot. Seeing their affection the people were overcome
with emotion and dismounting walked on foot, leaving their horses, elephants and
chariots. Going up to Bharata r Rmas mother (Kausaly) stopped her palanquin by
his side and spoke in soft accents, I adjure you by my life to mount the chariot, dear
child; or else all our near and dear ones will be put to trouble. If you walk on foot the
whole party will follow suit and you know they are all wasted with sorrow and hardly
fit to undertake the journey on foot. Reverently obeying her command and bowing their
head at her feet the two brothers mounted their chariot and proceeded on the journey.
They halted the first day on the bank of the Tamas* river and made the next halt on
the bank of the Gomat. (14)
0 r ff r rn
a r fa a ff rn+ {cc+
Do.: paya ahra phala asana eka nisi bhojana eka loga,
karata rma hita nema brata parihari bhuana bhoga.188.
Some of them lived on milk and some on fruits; while others took their meals by
night. Renouncing ornaments and luxuries they observed vows and fasts for the sake
of r Rma. (188)
0; at f fr n fr+
rr frr z fr ; frr+.{+
r a rt rs rt +
f rfa fr; a a t- n r;+.+
rf r rf rt s r rt+
a rtfa s rt a t rt+.-+
* The Tamas (now popularly known by the name of Tons) is a branch of Ghghar which leaves that
river about 10 miles from Ayodhy and after flowing past the town of Azamgarh falls into the Sarayu.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
518
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
r f rrr rf tafrr+
r r a t f f f f t+.+
Cau.: sa tra basi cale bihne, sgaberapura saba niarne.
samcra saba sune nid, hdaya bicra karai sabid.1.
krana kavana bharatu bana jh

, hai kachu kapaa bhu mana mh

.
jau pai jiya na hoti kuil, tau kata lnha saga kaak.2.
jnahi

snuja rmahi mr, karau akaaka rju sukhr.

bharata na rjanti ura n, taba kalaku aba jvana hn.3.
sakala sursura jurahi

jujhr, rmahi samara na jtanihr.

k caraju bharatu asa karah

, nah

bia beli amia phala pharah

.4.
Halting on the bank of the Sa* river they resumed their journey at daybreak and
the whole party drew near to gaverapura. When the Nida chief (Guha) heard the
whole story, he anxiously thought within himself: What motive can Bharata have in
journeying to the woods? He must have some evil design at heart. If he had no
mischievous intention at heart, why should he have brought an army with him? He must
have thought that after killing Rma and his younger brother (Lakmaa) he would reign
peacefully and happily. But Bharata did not take to heart the maxims of sound polity;
latterly he brought on himself stigma alone but this time he will meet a sure death. If all
the warriors among the gods and demons combine against r Rma, even they will fail
to conquer him in battle. But what wonder that Bharata should behave as he is doing;
for venomous plants, after all, can never bear fruits of ambrosia. (14)
0 frf n rfa s n r
r r af tf rrrrr+ {c+
Do.: asa bicri guha gyti sana kaheu sajaga saba hohu,
hathav

sahu borahu tarani kjia ghrohu.189.

Pondering thus Guha said to his kinsmen, Be alert all of you; collect the boats
and sink them and blockade the ghats (flight of steps leading to the river landing-
place). (189)
0r r; r rrrr r rr+
r a fa f sa +.{+
f f atr r r n tr+
a r; t z rn f r; t+.+
trf r fs rt fs rt+
as r rrr fr r r r+.-+
r r r r r na r r+
r fa n r f r= t f r=+.+
* The Sa rises about midway between the Gomat and the Gag and falls into the former 10 miles
below the city of Jaunpur.
The site of the ancient gaverapura is marked by a village bearing the same name under the
modernized form Singraur 22 miles to the north-west of Allahabad. The Gag has changed its course and
only a small branch now flows through the old channel.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
519
Cau.: hohu sa joila rokahu gh, hahu sakala marai ke h.
sanamukha loha bharata sana leu

, jiata na surasari utarana de u

.1.
samara maranu puni surasari tr, rma kju chanabhagu sarr.
bharata bhi npu mai

jana ncu, baRe bhga asi pia mc u.2.

svmi kja karihau rana rr, jasa dhavalihau bhuvana dasa cr.
tajau prna raghuntha nihore , duhu

htha muda modaka more .3.

sdhu samja na jkara lekh, rma bhagata mahu jsu na rekh.
jya jiata jaga so mahi bhr u, janan jaubana biapa kuhr u.4.
Equip yourself and blockade the ghats; be prepared in everyway to face death.
I go to encounter Bharata in open combat and would not let him cross the Gag so long
as there is life in me. To die in battle and that too on the bank of the Gag; and to lay
down this frail body in r Rmas cause! Then Bharata is r Rmas own brother and
a king; while I am an humble servant! It is through a great good fortune that one meets
with a death like this. In the cause of my master I will fight on the battlefield and will
brighten the fourteen spheres with my glory. I am going to lay down my life for the sake
of r Rma (the Lord of Raghus) and will be a gainer either way. (If I win the battle I
will have served the cause of my master, and if I die I will attain the eternal abode of the
Lord and his constant service.) He who is not reckoned among the virtuous and is
neither counted among r Rmas devotees lives in vain in this world; he is a veritable
burden to the earth and an axe to the tree of his mothers youth. (14)
0fna fr frfa f r; sr
ff r rns aa a r+ {+
Do.: bigata bida nidapati sabahi baRhi uchhu,
sumiri rma mgeu turata tarakasa dhanua sanhu.190.
The Nida chief, who was not the least troubled at heart, encouraged all and, fixing
his thought on r Rma, forthwith demanded his quiver, bow and coat of mail. (190)
0n r; r f r; r; r+
f r f r f r; r+.{+
fr rrf rrt =; rt+
ff r t rt rf r;f- t+.+
nt ff fz f t r r t+
fa rz rz f nn ffa rz+.-+
f f r r r; n rsaf rr r;+
f r r r r+.+
Cau.: begahu bhihu sajahu sa jo u, suni raji kadari na ko u.
bhalehi

ntha saba kahahi

sahara, ekahi

eka baRhvai kara.1.

cale nida johri johr, s ura sakala rana r ucai rr.
sumiri rma pada pakaja panah

, bhth

dhi caRhinhi dhanah

.2.
a gar pahiri k u

Ri sira dharah

, pharas b

sa sela sama karah

.
eka kusala ati oRana kh

Re, kudahi

gagana manahu chiti ch

Re.3.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
520
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
nija nija sju samju ban, guha rutahi johre j.
dekhi subhaa saba lyaka jne, lai lai nma sakala sanamne.4.
Make haste, brethren, to get ready the necessary equipment; on hearing my
command, let no one shrink in fear. All right, my lord, they all joyfully responded, and
roused the spirit of one another. Greeting their chief one after another, the Nidas left;
they were all brave and loved to fight on the battlefield. Invoking the shoes of r Rmas
lotus feet they fastened their quiver and strung their bow. Nay, they donned their coat
of mail, placed the helmet on their head and straightened their axe, bludgeon and spear.
Some of them who were exceptionally clever at fencing, sprang with such agility that it
seemed they never touched the ground and moved in the air. Equipping themselves with
their weapons etc., and forming themselves into batches they all went up to their chief,
Guha, and greeted him. Seeing his gallant warriors and finding them all fit for active
service he addressed them, each by his name, and duly honoured them. (14)
0r; r r f r r z rf
f r r t t rf+ {{+
Do.: bhihu lvahu dhokha jani ju kja baRa mohi,
suni saroa bole subhaa bra adhra na hohi.191.
Spare not your life, brethren; there is a great issue before me today. At this the
gallant warriors spiritedly exclaimed, Have patience, our brave chieftain! (191)
0r ar r ar f f f rrr+
ta rs r t =z z ff t+.{+
t frr r s rs rr r+
ar a t ; r s nf- a r+.+

n frt af ff r;f rt+
rf a r rt n ; fn rt +.-+
f n ; t r r f farf fr+
a rs t f r fz fa rf rf f r+.+
Cau.: rma pratpa ntha bala tore, karahi

kaaku binu bhaa binu ghore.

jvata pu na pche dharah

, rua muamaya medini karah

.1.
dkha nidantha bhala olu, kaheu baju jujhu holu.
etan kahata ch

ka bhai b

e, kaheu sagunianha kheta suhe.2.

buRhu eku kaha saguna bicr, bharatahi milia na hoihi rr.
rmahi bharatu manvana jh

, saguna kahai asa bigrahu nh

.3.
suni guha kahai nka kaha b uRh, sahas kari pachithi

bim uRh.
bharata subhu slu binu b ujhe , baRi hita hni jni binu j ujhe .4.
Through the majesty of r Rma and by your might, my lord, we shall leave no
fighting man or horse in the enemys ranks. We shall never retrace our steps so long as
there is life in us; nay, we shall strew the earth with the trunks and heads of fallen
warriors! The Nida chief saw that he had a good band of warriors and exclaimed,
Beat the martial drum. Even as he said so someone sneezed on the left. The sooth-
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
521
sayers said, The sneeze has come from an auspicious quarter! (The issue will be a
happy one.) An old man thought over the meaning of the omen and exclaimed, Let us
go and meet Bharata; there will be no conflict. Bharata is out to persuade r Rma to
return. The omen tells us that there will be no discord. On hearing this Guha said, The
old man says aright. Fools act precipitately and repent. If we come to a clash without
knowing Bharatas intentions and ascertaining his temper and disposition, we shall be
doing much harm to our own cause. (14)
0n rrr ff s ff r;
fr fr f nfa a a fs r;+ {+
Do.: gahahu gha bhaa samii saba leu marama mili ji,
bujhi mitra ari madhya gati tasa taba karihau i.192.
Close up, all my warriors, and blockade the ghats till I meet Bharata and find out
what is in his mind. When I have ascertained his friendly, hostile or neutral attitude I shall
act accordingly after that. (192)
0 r r = tfa f ; r+
f r rn n n rn+.{+
t t rt r f f r r- r+
f r f f fr n n r+.+
f f a f f r t- tf z r+
rf rf tf- tr af s rr; tr+.-+
r r f -rnr saf sna rnr+
nrs rfa n rs r; t- rr= r f r;+.+
Cau.: lakhaba sanehu subhya suhe , bairu prti nahi

durai

dure .
asa kahi bhe a sa jovana lge, kada mula phala khaga mga mge.1.
mna pna phna purne, bhari bhari bhra kahranha ne.
milana sju saji milana sidhe, magala m ula saguna subha pe.2.
dekhi duri te kahi nija nmu, knha munsahi daa pranmu.
jni rmapriya dnhi ass, bharatahi kaheu bujhi muns.3.
rma sakh suni sadanu tyg, cale utari umagata anurg.
gau jti guha nu sun, knha johru mtha mahi l.4.
I shall test his love on the touchstone of his friendly disposition; for hatred and
love cannot be disguised even if one tries to do so. So saying he began to collect
articles for making a present and sent for bulbs, roots and fruits as well as birds and
deer. Men of the porter class also brought loads of fat and ripe fish of the Phna*
species. Thus equipping himself with presents he proceeded to meet Bharata and met
with auspicious and happy omens. As soon as he saw the chief of sages, Vasiha, he
mentioned his own name and prostrated himself before the sage from a distance. The
sage, who knew him to be a friend of r Rma, bestowed his blessing on him and told
Bharata in detail about him. Hearing that he was a friend of r Rma, Bharata alighted
* The Phna is said to be a kind of sea-fish, the Silurus Pelorius or Boalis.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
522
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
from his chariot and, leaving it behind, advanced towards him with a heart overflowing
with love. Guha, on his part mentioned his village, caste and name and greeted him by
placing his head on the ground. (14)
0a za f af a t- s r;
; z r;+ {-+
Do.: karata daavata dekhi tehi bharata lnha ura li,
manahu lakhana sana bhe a bhai premu na hdaya sami.193.
When Bharata saw him falling prostrate on the ground he lifted him and pressed
him to his bosom. He felt as if he had met Lakmaa and the surging emotion of his heart
could not be repressed. (193)
0a a arf fa tat rn frf tat+
- - f n r rf af ff r+.{+
r rfaf tr r r ; ; tr+
af f r rr rar fa ffa nrar+.+
r r f rt fa-f r rt+
a r r; s t-r a n r t-r+.-+
r f ; af r t f ;+
sr r a n rr rtf zr rr+.+
Cau.: bhe ata bharatu thi ati prt, loga sihhi

prema kai rt.
dhanya dhanya dhuni magala mul, sura sarhi tehi barisahi

ph ul.1.
loka beda saba bh

tihi

nc, jsu ch

ha chui leia s

c.
tehi bhari aka rma laghu bhrt, milata pulaka parip urita gt.2.
rma rma kahi je jamuhh

, tinhahi na ppa puja samuhh

.
yaha tau rma li ura lnh, kula sameta jagu pvana knh.3.
karamansa jalu surasari parai, tehi ko kahahu ssa nahi

dhara.
ula nmu japata jagu jn, blamki bhae brahma samn.4.
Bharata embraced him with great affection and the people admired the mode of his
love. Raising a jubilant cry of applause the gods extolled him and rained flowers on him.
This man is low in the eyes of the world as well as from the point of view of the Vedas,
so much so that one must bathe even on crossing his shadow. Yet r Rmas younger
brother, Bharata, has met him in close embrace, his body thrilling all over with joy. Hosts
of sins turn away from them who utter the name of Rma even while yawning. As for
this man he was embraced by r Rma Himself, who thereby bestowed on him and his
family the efficacy of sanctifying the whole world. Where the water of the Karmans
joins the celestial stream (the Gag) tell me who would not place it on his head ! The
whole world knows how Vlmki became as good as Brahma (God Himself) by repeating
the name (Rma) in the reverse way (as Mar). (14)
0t z r r fra
r a r ra f=ra+ {+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
523
Do.: svapaca sabara khasa jamana jaRa pva ra kola kirta,
rmu kahata pvana parama hota bhuvana bikhyta.194.
Even a pariah*, a abara (Bhla), a Khs, the stupid barbarian and the vile Kola
and Kirta get supremely sanctified and get renowned through all the spheres by uttering
the name of Rma. (194)
0f ff n n f r; f tf- rrt zr;+
r r fr t f f rn t+.{+
rf ff a r t n r+
f a t r fr af f+.+
r rr af faa rr+
f t f rt f a rt+.-+
t fa r f t+
n ar fa rf n r+.+
Cau.: nahi

aciriju juga juga cali , kehi na dnhi raghubra baR.

rma nma mahim sura kahah

, suni suni avadhaloga sukhu lahah

.1.
rmasakhahi mili bharata saprem, pu

ch kusala sumagala khem.

dekhi bharata kara slu saneh u, bh nida tehi samaya bideh u.2.
sakuca sanehu modu mana bRh, bharatahi citavata ekaaka hRh.
dhari dhraju pada badi bahor, binaya saprema karata kara jor.3.
kusala mula pada pakaja pekh, mai

tihu kla kusala nija lekh.

aba prabhu parama anugraha tore , sahita koi kula magala more .4.
It is no wonder; it has been so for ages. Who has not been exalted through
contact with the Hero of Raghus race? In this way the gods glorified r Rmas name
and the people of Ayodhy rejoiced as they heard the praise. Having thus met r
Rmas friend (Guha), Bharata lovingly enquired after his health, welfare and happiness.
Seeing Bharatas amiability and affection on that occasion the Nida forgot all about
himself. His bashfulness, love and souls delight grew; and he stood gazing at Bharata
with unwinking eyes. Collecting himself he bowed at Bharatas feet again and with joined
palms lovingly submitted, Now that I have beheld your lotus feet, which are the very
fountain of happiness, I have accounted myself blessed for all time. And now, my lord,
by your supreme grace my welfare is assured for millions of generations. (14)
0fr rf afa fr f r;
r ; rrt n ff fa r;+ {~+
Do.: samujhi mori karatuti kulu prabhu mahim jiya joi,
jo na bhajai raghubra pada jaga bidhi bacita soi.195.
Remembering my doings and my descent, on the one hand, and realizing the
* The word used in the original is vapaca (lit., one who cooks the flesh of a dog, i.e., lives on the
flesh of dogs; the Kolas and Kirtas are wild mountain tribes; the Khss are another hilly tribe inhabiting
Khasa, a hilly tract in Northern India).
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
524
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
Lords greatness on the other, he who does not devote himself to r Rmas feet has
been befooled in this world by Providence. (195)
0t r fa rat r r rat+
r t- r t a s at a+.{+
f tfa f f r; fs rf a rr r;+
f fr f r rt r rrt rt+.+
rf f tr f t r tr+
ff fr n rt t frt+.-+
f s f t r s r f r+
f fr f rn zr; fa ; s r;+.+
Cau.: kapa kyara kumati kujt, loka beda bhera saba bh

t.
rma knha pana jabah te , bhayau bhuvana bhuana tabah te .1.
dekhi prti suni binaya suh, mileu bahori bharata laghu bh.
kahi nida nija nma subn

, sdara sakala johr

rn

.2.
jni lakhana sama dehi

ass, jiahu sukh saya lkha bars.

nirakhi nidu nagara nara nr, bhae sukh janu lakhanu nihr.3.
kahahi

laheu ehi

jvana lhu, bhe eu rmabhadra bhari bh u.

suni nidu nija bhga baR, pramudita mana lai caleu lev.4.
False, cowardly, evil-minded and low-born as I am and cast off from society as
well as from the fold of the Vedas in everyway, I have become the ornament of the world
ever since r Rma took me for his own. Seeing his affection and hearing his humble
submission Bharatas younger brother, atrughna, embraced him next. The Nida chief
then greeted all the dowager queens in polite and respectful terms, mentioning his name
each time. Treating him on the same footing as Lakmaa they gave him their blessing:
May you live happily for millions of years. The men and women of the city were as glad
to see the Nida chief as if they saw Lakmaa, and said, He has surely reaped the
reward of his existence in that our beloved Rma folded him in his arms. Hearing them
extol his good fortune the Nida chief led them with a cheerful heart. (14)
0r trf = r;
rr a= a rn r rf- r;+ {+
Do.: sanakre sevaka sakala cale svmi rukha pi,
ghara taru tara sara bga bana bsa banenhi ji.196.
Receiving a signal from him and learning their masters will all his attendants
dispersed; and reaching the residential quarters, the foot of trees, ponds, orchards and
groves they made room for the guests to take up their lodging. (196)
0n a t n ff a+
ra f frf rn a f rn+.{+
f ff a nr tf r; n rf nnr+
rrrr t- r r n f r+.+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
525
f r n rt fa zr rf frt+
f r rnf rt r tfa rt+.-+
a s f a +
rf rf rns t r +.+
Cau.: sgaberapura bharata dkha jaba, bhe saneha saba aga sithila taba.
sohata die nidahi lgu, janu tanu dhare binaya anurg u.1.
ehi bidhi bharata senu sabu sag, dkhi ji jaga pvani gag.
rmagha kaha knha pranmu, bh manu maganu mile janu rm u.2.
karahi

pranma nagara nara nr, mudita brahmamaya bri nihr.

kari majjanu mgahi

kara jor, rmacadra pada prti na thor.3.

bharata kaheu surasari tava ren u, sakala sukhada sevaka suradhenu.
jori pni bara mgau ehu, sya rma pada sahaja saneh u.4.
When Bharata beheld the town of gaverapura, all his limbs were overpowered
with emotion. Leaning on the Nida chief he presented a goodly sight; it appeared as
if meekness and love had taken a living form. In this way Bharata with all his army went
and saw the stream of the Gag, which purifies the whole world. He made obeisance
to the ghat where r Rma had bathed and said His prayers; and his soul was a
enraptured as if he had met r Rma Himself. The men and women of the city bowed
low; they were glad to see the divine stream. Taking a dip into the river they begged with
joined palms to be favoured with abundant love for r Rmacandras feet. Bharata
exclaimed, Mother Gag! your sands are delightful to all and the very cow of plenty to
your devotees. With joined palms, therefore, I ask of you only one boon; viz., spontaneous
love for the feet of St and r Rma. (14)
0f ff r a f n r r;
ra rt rf zr r;+ {+
Do.: ehi bidhi majjanu bharatu kari gura anussana pi,
mtu nahn

jni saba er cale lavi.197.

In this way after taking a dip into the Gag and receiving his Gurus commands,
and on learning that all his mothers had finished their bath he had the tents shifted. (197)
0 a rn- zr t-r a r t t-r+
r f r r; r ra f n rs r;+.{+
rf f f rt t a rt+
r;f f ra r; r frf t- rr;+.+
r r r ff t= r+
a f r rs r f zr+.-+
f r ff r a r r+
a f s fr aa ar ; ns fr+.+
Cau.: jaha taha loganha er knh, bharata sodhu sabah kara lnh.
sura sev kari yasu p, rma mtu pahi

ge dou bh.1.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
526
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
carana c

pi kahi kahi mdu bn, janan

sakala bharata sanamn.

bhihi sau pi mtu sevak, pu nidahi lnha bol.2.
cale sakh kara so kara jore , sithila sarru saneha na thore .
p u

chata sakhahi so hu dekh u, neku nayana mana jarani juR u.3.

jaha siya rmu lakhanu nisi soe, kahata bhare jala locana koe.
bharata bacana suni bhayau bidu, turata tah

lai gayau nid u.4.

The people took up their lodgings at different places and Bharata made enquiries
about all. After worshipping the gods and taking leave of them the two brothers (Bharata
and atrughna) went up to r Rmas mother (Kausaly). Bharata showed respect to
all his mothers by kneading their feet and speaking to each in polite terms. Then
entrusting his brother with the service of his mothers he himself summoned the Nida
chief and went hand in hand with him, his body overpowered with excess of love. He
asked his friend to show him the spotand thereby soothe the agony of his eyes and
soul to some extentwhere St, r Rma and Lakmaa had slept at night. Even as
he spoke the corners of his eyes were filled with tears. The Nida chief was distressed
to hear Bharatas words and presently took him to the spot (14)
0 fr ta a rr f f>rr
fa r a t-s z r+ {c+
Do.: jaha sisup punta tara raghubara kiya birmu,
ati saneha sdara bharata knheu daa pranmu.198.
Where the Chief of Raghus line had rested under a holy Aoka tree. With great
affection and reverence Bharata prostrated himself there. (198)
0 rt frf r; t- r f- r;+
rf- r; ; a tfa fr;+.{+
f ; rf r t t +
fr z nrt a r rt+.+
>rta t f fatr r rf ftr+
far s a t a rn rn n t+.-+
r r r f fra rfar+
rr rrr nrr; r z ra r r z r; +.+
Cau.: kusa s

thar nihri suh, knha pranmu pradacchina j.

carana rekha raja

khinha l, banai na kahata prti adhik.1.

kanaka bidu dui crika dekhe, rkhe ssa sya sama lekhe.
sajala bilocana hdaya galn, kahata sakh sana bacana subn.2.
rhata sya biraha dutihn, jath avadha nara nri biln.
pit janaka deu paatara keh, karatala bhogu jogu jaga jeh.3.
sasura bhnukula bhnu bhulu, jehi sihta amarvatiplu.
prnanthu raghuntha gos

, jo baRa hota so rma baR

.4.
Beholding a lovely litter of Kua grass he paced round it clockwise and made
obeisance. He also placed the dust of r Rmas footprints on his eyes with an excess
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
527
of love which could not be described in words. He saw there a few gold spangles, which
he placed on his head and treated them on a par with St. With tears in his eyes and
a heart full of remorse he spoke to his friend in sweet accents: These spangles have
lost their charm and appear lustreless due to their separation from St, even as the
people of Ayodhy, both men and women, are spent through sorrow. To whom shall I
liken her father, Janaka, who in this world is a master of asceticism and enjoyment both?
And she had for her father-in-law King Daaratha, the sun of the solar race, who was
the envy even of the lord of paradise (Indra). And her beloved lord is no other than Lord
r Rma, from whose glory all great ones derive their greatness! (14)
0fa ar at f t rt f
fa zs f f a f ff+ {+
Do.: pati devat sutya mani sya s

thar dekhi,
biharata hdau na hahari hara pabi te kahina bisei.199.
Even as I gaze on the litter used by St, the jewel among virtuous women
devoted to their lord, my heart does not break in horror; it is harder than adamant,
my God. (199)
0r rn rr r r; f r+
f fa ra r f rrtf rfr+.{+
fa r r ara rs a rn r+
a f ffa r at f rf f f rat+.+
r f n t- srn = t n rn+
f n fa rar r rs f rar+.-+
fs r zr; t rf ff f t+
r rf rf a r f f n n r+.+
Cau.: llana jogu lakhana laghu lone, bhe na bhi asa ahahi

na hone.
purajana priya pitu mtu dulre, siya raghubrahi prnapire.1.
mdu murati sukumra subh u, tta bu tana lga na k u.
te bana sahahi

bipati saba bh

t, nidare koi kulisa ehi

cht.2.
rma janami jagu knha ujgara, r upa sla sukha saba guna sgara.
purajana parijana gura pitu mt, rma subhu sabahi sukhadt.3.
bairiu rma baR karah

, bolani milani binaya mana harah

.
srada koi koi sata se, kari na sakahi

prabhu guna gana lekh.4.

"And my younger brother, Lakmaa, is so comely and worth fondling; never was
there such a brother, nor is there, nor will be. Beloved of the people and the darling of
his parents, he is dear as life to both St and the Hero of Raghu's line. Nay, he is so
delicate of frame and tender of disposition and his body has never been exposed to hot
winds; yet he is bearing hardships of every kind in the woods. Oh! my breast has
outdone millions of thunderbolts. As for r Rma he has illumined the world by being
born in it; he is such an ocean of beauty, amiability, joy and all excellences. r Rma's
disposition is the delight of the people of Ayodhy and his own family, much more of his
preceptor and parents. Even enemies praise r Rma, who steals the heart by his polite
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
528
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
speech, agreeable manners and modesty of behaviour. Millions of rads (goddesses
of speech) and hundreds of millions of eas (serpent-gods) are unable to reckon up the
virtues of the Lord." (14)
0t= rrf n r fr
a ra zrf f ff nfa fa r+ +
Do.: sukhasvarupa raghubasamani magala moda nidhna,
te sovata kusa si mahi bidhi gati ati balavna.200.
"That jewel of Raghu's line, who is bliss personified and a mine of joy and
blessings, sleeps on the ground spreading the Kua grass on it! The ways of Providence
are inexorable indeed." (200)
0r r r r ta= ff rn; r+
f f f r at rnf f f rat+.{+
a fa ff rt rt+
fn ; n r ;f r fa far+.+
fn fn rr sf rnt sara s f rnt+
f s frar r;r rf t- rar+.-+
f rr fr r f a rf fr+
r arf f ar f rf fr r ff rf+.+
Cau.: rma sun dukhu kna na k u, jvanataru jimi jogavai r u.
palaka nayana phani mani jehi bh

t, jogavahi

janani sakala dina rt.1.

te aba phirata bipina padacr, kada m ula phala ph ula ahr.
dhiga kaika amagala m ul, bhaisi prna priyatama pratik ul.2.
mai

dhiga dhiga agha udadhi abhg, sabu utaptu bhayau jehi lg.
kula kalaku kari sjeu bidht

, si

doha mohi knha kumt

.3.
suni saprema samujhva nidu, ntha karia kata bdi bid u.
rma tumhahi priya tumha priya rmahi, yaha nirajosu dosu bidhi bmahi.4.
"r Rma had never heard any mention of sorrow; the king (our father) tended him
like the tree of life. Nay, all the mothers cherished him day and night even as the eyelids
protect the eyes or a serpent guards the gem on its head. The same Rma now wanders
through the forest on foot living on bulbs, roots, fruits and flowers. Accursed is Kaikey
(my mother), the root of evil, who turned hostile to him (her own husband) who was the
dearest object of her life. And twice accursed is my own wretched self, the ocean of sin
and the occasion of all trouble. While God created me as a blot on my family, my wicked
mother has made me the enemy of my master." Hearing this the Nida chief lovingly
comforted him: "Why should you lament in vain? r Rma is dear to you, and you are
dear to Rma: this is a settled fact, and the blame rests with an adverse fate." (14)
U0ff r t t f f ra t-t rt
af rfa f f f r r rt+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
529
at ar r r ta a f
fr n rf rf t f+
cha.: bidhi bma k karan kahina jehi

mtu knh bvar,

tehi rti puni puni karahi

prabhu sdara sarahan rvar.

tulas na tumha so rma prtamu kahatu hau sau he kie ,
parinma magala jni apane nie dhraju hie .
"Cruel indeed are the doings of an adverse fate, which drove mother Kaikey mad.
The Lord reverently praised you again and again that night. There is no one, says
Tulasdsa, so supremely dear to r Rma as you are: I declare this on oath. Therefore,
be assured that all will be well in the end and take courage in your heart."
0art r ra
f f f>rr frf rf + {+
So.: atarajm rmu sakuca saprema kpyatana,
calia karia birmu yaha bicri dRha ni mana.201.
"r Rma knows the heart of all; nay, He is an embodiment of tenderness,
affection and compassion. Considering this and summoning courage in your heart,
please go and take rest." (201)
0r f s f tr r fa rrtr+
f r; n rt fr ra rt+.{+
fr f f rr f ;f rf frr+
f f rf fr t r fraf t+.+
rf a rs fa frs +
ff r rf frf r f ; fr frf+.-+
f ff rfa rn rnr r fr nrr rnr+
nf r r; r; ; r ra r;+.+
z rf r rr saf a a f rr+.~+
Cau.: sakh bacana suni ura dhari dhr, bsa cale sumirata raghubr.
yaha sudhi pi nagara nara nr, cale bilokana rata bhr.1.
paradakhin kari karahi

pranm, dehi

kaikaihi khori nikm.
bhari bhari bri bilocana leh

, bma bidhtahi d uana deh

.2.
eka sarhahi

bharata saneh u, kou kaha npati nibheu neh u.
nidahi

pu sarhi nidahi, ko kahi sakai bimoha bidahi.3.
ehi bidhi rti logu sabu jg, bh bhinusra gudr lg.
gurahi sunva caRhi suh

, na

nva saba mtu caRh

.4.
daa cri maha bh sabu pr, utari bharata taba sabahi sa bhr.5.
Bharata took comfort at the words of his friend and proceeded towards his
lodgings with his thoughts directed towards the Hero of Raghu's race. On receiving this
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
530
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
news the men and women of the city sallied forth to see the place (where r Rma had
slept one night) much distressed at heart. Pacing round the spot clockwise they made
obeisance to it and blamed Kaikey to their heart's content. Tears rushed to their eyes
again and again and they reproached cruel Fate. Some would praise Bharata's love,
while others said the king had vindicated his affection. They would reproach themselves
and praise the Nida chief; who can describe their confusion and woe? In this way they
all kept vigil overnight and at daybreak the passage across the river began. The Guru
was put on a good and handsome boat, and all the mothers on another newly-built one.
In an hour and a half everyone was taken across. When Bharata had alighted, he made
sure that all had come. (15)
0rafr f ra f nf f= r;
rn f fr n t-s r;+ +
Do.: prtakriy kari mtu pada badi gurahi siru ni,
ge kie nida gana dnheu kaaku cali.202.
Having finished the morning duties Bharata adored his mothers' feet and bowed
his head to the preceptor, and sending a party of the Nidas ahead started the whole
host. (202)
0fs frr nr; ra rt r;+
r rr; r; rr t-r f- fa n n t-r+.{+
r ff t- r f fa f r+
n a rf r ra n rf zrfr+.+
f rf rr r; r t rr+
r rf r fr n rf r+.-+
f rs sfa rr a rr+
f a nfa f rt n nf nrt+.+
Cau.: kiyau nidanthu agu

, mtu plak

sakala cal

.
stha boli bhi laghu dnh, bipranha sahita gavanu gura knh.1.
pu surasarihi knha pranmu, sumire lakhana sahita siya rm u.
gavane bharata paydehi

pe, kotala saga jhi

orie.2.
kahahi

susevaka brahi

br, hoia ntha asva asavr.

rmu paydehi pya sidhe, hama kaha ratha gaja bji bane.3.
sira bhara ju ucita asa mor, saba te sevaka dharamu kahor.
dekhi bharata gati suni mdu bn, saba sevaka gana garahi

galn.4.
He made the Nida chief lead the van and then started the palanquins carrying
the queen-mothers, and summoning his younger brother (atrughna) told him off as their
escort. The Guru proceeded next alongwith the other Brhmaas. He himself then made
obeisance to the celestial river, invoked St, Rma and Lakmaa and set forth on foot;
while riding horses meant for the king were led by the bridle alongwith him. Again and
again his faithful servants said, "Be pleased, sire,to mount your horse." "r Rma has
gone on foot; while chariots, elephants and horses are intended for me! What behoves
me is that I should walk on my head; for the duty of a servant is harder than any other
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
531
duty." Seeing his behaviour and hearing his polite speech all his servants melted out of
a feeling of self-disparagement. (14)
0a at t- rn
a r f r f sfn sfn rn+ -+
Do.: bharata tsare pahara kaha knha prabesu prayga,
kahata rma siya rma siya umagi umagi anurga.203.
Bharata entered the limits of Prayga (the area surrounding the confluence of the
Gag and Yamun near Allahabad) in the afternoon; overflowing with love he cried
"Rma, St!" "Rma, St!" even as he went. (203)
0rr ra r- r r +
a rf r r s fa f r+.{+
f t- rn r t- r frff r+
ff farfa t r f r f r+.+
a tr r f t a r+
r atr ffa n n r+.-+
rns t -rfn f ra r ; +
f rf r rt f n r rt+.+
Cau.: jhalak jhalakata pyanha kaise , pakaja kosa osa kana jaise .
bharata paydehi

e ju, bhayau dukhita suni sakala samju.1.

khabari lnha saba loga nahe, knha pranmu tribenihi

e.
sabidhi sitsita nra nahne, die dna mahisura sanamne.2.
dekhata symala dhavala halore, pulaki sarra bharata kara jore.
sakala kma prada trathar u, beda bidita jaga pragaa prabh u.3.
mgau bhkha tygi nija dharamu, rata kha na karai kukaram u.
asa jiya jni sujna sudn, saphala karahi

jaga jcaka bn.4.

The blisters on the soles of his feet glistened like dew-drops on a lotus bud. The
whole company was grieved to hear that Bharata had made the day's march on foot.
After ascertaining that all had finished their ablutions, he repaired to the confluence of
the Gag, Yamun and Sarasvat and did homage to it. He bathed in the particoloured
waters with due ceremony and honoured the Brhmaas bestowing gifts on them. As
he watched the coming of the dark and white waves Bharata felt a thrill of joy over his
body and he joined his palms in prayer: "You are the bestower of all desired objects,
O king of sacred places; your glory is known to the Vedas and manifest throughout the
world. Abandoning the course of conduct prescribed for a Katriya I beg alms of you.
But what vile act is there that an afflicted soul would not stoop to? Realizing this in their
heart of hearts the wise and generous donors accomplish in this world the prayer of
the suppliant. (14)
0 r =f nfa s fr
fa r r r+ +
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
532
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
Do.: aratha na dharama na kma ruci gati na cahau nirabna,
janama janama rati rma pada yaha baradnu na na.204.
"I have no liking for wealth nor for religious merit nor for sensuous enjoyment nor
again do I seek the state of perfect and perpetual calm. Birth after birth let me have
devotion to r Rma's feet: this is the only boon I ask and nought else." (204)
0r r f f rt rn s n rf rt+
tar r fa r f s n ar+.{+
f fa frs ra f r zrs+
ra f rr rrf r; rfa r;+.+
f r ; ff r faf fa fr+
a f rr frt ; rf n t+.-+
ara a ar ff r r rn nr+
rf nrf rt ar rf rs f rt+.+
Cau.: jnahu rma kuila kari moh, loga kahau gura shiba droh.
st rma carana rati more , anudina baRhau anugraha tore .1.
jaladu janama bhari surati bisrau, jcata jalu pabi phana rau.
ctaku raani ghae ghai j, baRhe premu saba bh

ti bhal.2.
kanakahi

bna caRhai jimi dhe , timi priyatama pada nema nibhe .

bharata bacana suni mjha triben, bhai mdu bni sumagala den.3.
tta bharata tumha saba bidhi sdh u, rma carana anurga agdhu.
bdi galni karahu mana mh

, tumha sama rmahi kou priya nh

.4.
"Let r Rma take me for a wicked fellow, and let the people call me an enemy
of my preceptor and master. All the same by your grace may my devotion to the feet of
St and r Rma grow day by day. The cloud may neglect the Ctaka bird all its life
and on its asking water may discharge thunderbolt and hail. But the bird will fall in the
estimation of others if it ceases to call out to the cloud. It will gain in everyway only by
intensifying its love for the latter. Just as gold gets brighter by being put into the fire, even
so the lover shines by sticking to his vow of devotion to the feet of his most beloved
lord." In response to Bharata's prayer there came a sweet and benedictory utterance
from the midst of the Trive: "Dear Bharata, you are pious in everyway and your love
for r Rma's feet is unbounded. In vain do you harbour depressing thoughts in your
mind; there is no one so dear to Rma as you are." (14)
0a s f f f
a - f - fa f + ~+
Do.: tanu pulakeu hiya harau suni beni bacana anukula,
bharata dhanya kahi dhanya sura haraita baraahi

phula.205.
A thrill ran through Bharata's body and his soul rejoiced to hear the agreeable
words of the (deity presiding over) Trive. Exclaiming "Bharata is praiseworthy, all
praise to him!" the gods joyfully rained flowers. (205)
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
533
0fa atr frt r nt srt+
f ff rr a t f rr+.{+
a r n nr r r f f r+
z r a f faa r f +.+
r; sr; r; s t- tf- t ar t-+
r t- r; f= a n f +.-+
f z r r ff f t r+
a f r; ff a f r;+.+
Cau.: pramudita tratharja nivs, baikhnasa bau gh uds.
kahahi

parasapara mili dasa p

c, bharata sanehu slu suci s

c.1.
sunata rma guna grma suhe, bharadvja munibara pahi

e.
daa pranmu karata muni dekhe, m uratimata bhgya nija lekhe.2.
dhi uhi li ura lnhe, dnhi assa ktratha knhe.
sanu dnha ni siru baihe, cahata sakuca gha janu bhaji paihe.3.
muni p u

chaba kachu yaha baRa soc u, bole rii lakhi slu sa koc u.
sunahu bharata hama saba sudhi p, bidhi karataba para kichu na bas.4.
The inhabitants of Prayga (the king of sacred places), including anchorites,
religious students, householders and recluses, were transported with joy. Meeting in
batches of five to ten they said to one another, "Bharata's affection and amiability are
artless and genuine." Hearing of r Rma's charming virtues he came to the great
sage Bharadvja. The sage saw him falling prostrate before him and looked upon him
as his own good-luck personified. Running up and lifting him the sage clasped him to
his bosom and gratified him by bestowing his blessing on him. Offered a seat by the
sage he sat down with his head bent low, as if he would run away and hide his face
in a den of bashfulness. He felt much perturbed at the thought that the sage might ask
him any question. Seeing his amiability and confusion of mind the sage said to him,
"Listen, Bharata! I have already heard everything; but we have no control over the
doings of Fate. (14)
0ar nrf f f fr ra afa
ara ;f r f n; fnr fa fa+ +
Do.: tumha galni jiya jani karahu samujhi mtu karatuti,
tta kaikaihi dosu nahi

ga gir mati dhuti.206.

"Be not distressed at heart by the thought of what your mother has done. It is no
fault of Kaikey, dear child; it was the goddess of speech who deluded her mind." (206)
0s a ff r r a r+
ara arr f nr; r;f rs z r; +.{+
r a ; f fa ; r r ;+
rs -a arf rr; a r zr;+.+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
534
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
r n r r f ft ; r+
r rt rf rt f rf a fart+.-+
as arr r r r r+
a r a arf r rf ra a ar+.+
Cau.: yahau kahata bhala kahihi na kou, loku bedu budha samata dou.
tta tumhra bimala jasu g, pihi lokau bedu baR.1.
loka beda samata sabu kaha, jehi pitu dei rju so laha.
ru satyabrata tumhahi bol, deta rju sukhu dharamu baR.2.
rma gavanu bana anaratha m ul, jo suni sakala bisva bhai s ul.
so bhv basa rni ayn, kari kucli atahu pachitn.3.
taha u tumhra alapa apardh u, kahai so adhama ayna asdhu.
karatehu rju ta tumhahi na dou, rmahi hota sunata sato u.4.
"Nobody would approve of it even if I said so; for the wise recognize worldly
opinion as well as the judgment of the Vedas. By singing your unsullied glory, however,
the world and the Vedas both will be exalted. The world as well as the Vedas admit it
and everyone says that of king's sons he alone gets the throne on whom his father
bestows it. The king, who was above all true to his vow, would have called you and
bestowed the kingdom on you; and this would have brought him joy, religious merit and
glory. But the root of all trouble was Rma's exile to the forest and the whole universe
was pained to hear of it. It was, however, as fate would have it; much as the foolish
queen (Kaikey) did wrong, she now repents for it. But he who lays the least blame for
it on you is vile, ignorant and wicked. Even if you accepted the sovereignty no blame
would attach to you and even Rma would have been gratified to hear of it." (14)
0 fa t- a arf sfa a
n n rr + +
Do.: aba ati knhehu bharata bhala tumhahi ucita mata ehu,
sakala sumagala mula jaga raghubara carana sanehu.207.
"But what you have done now is excellent; your standpoint is quite justified. For
devotion to r Rma's feet is the root of all choice blessings in the world." (207)
0r arr t rr frn r arf rr+
arr r arar r f rar+.{+
a rr rt rr a r rs rt +
r taf fa tat ff arf ra tat+.+
rr ra rnr n rf ar rnr+
ar rr t n z +.-+
f rrt zr; a r rrr;+
ar a a r a r +.+
Cau.: so tumhra dhanu jvanu prn, bh uribhga ko tumhahi samn.
yaha tumhra caraju na tt, dasaratha suana rma priya bhrt.1.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
535
sunahu bharata raghubara manamh

, pema ptru tumha sama kou nh

.
lakhana rma stahi ati prt, nisi saba tumhahi sarhata bt.2.
jn maramu nahta prayg, magana hohi

tumhare anurg.
tumha para asa sanehu raghubara ke , sukha jvana jaga jasa jaRa nara ke .3.
yaha na adhika raghubra baR, pranata kuuba pla raghur.
tumha tau bharata mora mata ehu, dhare deha janu rma saneh u.4.
"And that is your wealth and life, nay, your vital breath. Who is, then, so highly
blessed as you? This is, however, not to be wondered at in your case, who are a son
of King Daaratha and a beloved brother of Rma. I tell you, Bharata, there is no one
held so dear in his heart by the Chief of Raghu's line as you. Lakmaa, Rma and St
most fondly praised you the whole night. I came to know the secret only when they were
bathing at Prayga; they would feel overwhelmed with love for you. The Chief of Raghu's
line cherishes the same love for you as a fool does for a life of ease in this world. This
is, however, no great tribute to the Hero of Raghu's race, who cherishes the whole family
of the suppliant. As for yourself, Bharata, my opinion is that you are the very incarnation
of love for Rma." (14)
0ar a s
r nfa ffq fa r s n+ c+
Do.: tumha kaha bharata kalaka yaha hama saba kaha upadesu,
rma bhagati rasa siddhi hita bh yaha samau ganesu.208.
What, to your mind, constitutes a slur on you is a lesson to us all. The
present occasion has proved very propitious for preparing elixir in the form of
devotion of Rma." (208)
0 f f ara arr rr f rr+
sfa r ;f r rrff n f f r+.{+
r far tfa fa ft ar f ff ft+
ff f r r nff ; a r+.+
r fr n r r f r+
r na f rrr t- r r+.-+
nt f rt fa n rt+
n n f rt f r f n rt+.+
Cau.: nava bidhu bimala tta jasu tor, raghubara kikara kumuda cakor.
udita sad a thaihi kabahu

n, ghaihi na jaga nabha dina dina dun.1.

koka tiloka prti ati karih, prabhu pratpa rabi chabihi na harih.
nisi dina sukhada sad saba kh u, grasihi na kaikai karatabu rh u.2.
purana rma supema piy u, gura avamna doa nahi

du.
rma bhagata aba amia aghhu

, knhehu sulabha sudh basudhhu

.3.
bhupa bhagratha surasari n, sumirata sakala sumagala khn.
dasaratha guna gana barani na jh

, adhiku kah jehi sama jaga nh

.4.
"Your glory, dear child, is a new type of spotless moon as it were; while Rma's
devotees are like so many water-lilies (that open only in moonlight) and Cakora birds
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
536
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
(that are equally fond of the moon). It shall always remain above the horizon and shall
never set; nay, it shall never wane and shall ever wax in the heavens of this world. The
Cakravka bird in the shape of the three worlds shall cherish great love for it, while the
sun in the shape of the Lord's glory shall never rob it of its splendour. It shall ever
delight everyone by day as well as by night and the demon Rhu in the form of
Kaikey's doings shall never eclipse it. It is full of nectar in the form of ideal love for
Rma and is untarnished by any stain resulting from a wrong done to the Guru.* Let
Rma's devotees now enjoy nectar to their heart's content since you have made it so
easy of access even on earth. Of your forbears King Bhagratha brought down the
celestial river, the very thought of which is a fountain of all choice blessings. As for
Daaratha's virtues they are more than one can describe. What more shall I say about
him? He had no equal in the world." (14)
0r r r n r;
f f f t rrr;+ +
Do.: jsu saneha sakoca basa rma pragaa bhae i,
je hara hiya nayanani kabahu nirakhe nah

aghi.209.
"Won by his affection and meekness r Rma Himself appeared on earthRma
whom even iva has never seen with His mental eyes to His heart's fill." (209)
0tfa f ar t- r r n=r+
ara nrf f r z ff r r+.{+
a r t srt ar t+
r rr r f rr+.+
* It is mentioned in the Puras that Bhaspati, the preceptor of the gods, on one occasion, when he
was returning from a bath in the Gag, found his wife, Tr, with the moon-god and threw his dripping robe
at him and hit him in the face, thus causing the spots that are still to be seen there.
The descent of the celestial river, Gag, to the earth is associated with the name of King
Bhagratha, who is said to have practised austere penance for 1000 years and eventually succeeded in
bringing down the stream. The Puras tell us how King Sagara, an ancestor of the illustrious Bhagratha,
performed a horse sacrifice. The horse released by the king prior to the sacrifice was.
King Sagara's sons, 60,000 in number, went out in quest of the horse and dug the earth on all sides.
While digging the earth in the north-east they found the horse by the side of the divine sage Kapila, who sat
absorbed in meditation in the nether regions. The foolish and haughty princes took the sage for a thief and
abusing him right and left ran to assault him. The sage now opened his eyes and lo! as a result of their offence
the princes were instantly reduced to ashes by a fire which emanated from their body.
King Sagara had another son, Asamajasa by name. His son, Aumn, who was much devoted to
his grandfather, proceeded in search of the horse under orders of the king, and found the animal near the
ashes of his uncles. He also beheld the great sage Kapila and supplicated to him. The sage, who was
pleased with his prayer, told him that the horse belonged to his grandfather and asked him to take it back. The
sage further told him about the death of his uncles and added that the latter could attain salvation only if their
remains could be washed by the Gag . Aumn took the horse to his grandfather, who duly performed the
horse sacrifice and then retired to the woods after installing his grandson on the throne of Ayodhy.
King Aumn and his son Dilpa successively practised austere for a number of years with a view to
bringing the Gag down to the mortal plane, but in vain Dilpa's son, Bhagratha, at last succeeded in
bringing the stream to the earth and took it to the place, where his uncles had lain in the form of ashes. The
moment the water of the Gag touched their remains their spirits were absolved from the sin of insulting a
holy sage and ascended to heaven. Such is the glory of the Gag, which is stated to have emanated from the
feet of Bhagavn Viu Himself.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
537
af arrr fa rn rn rr+
a - ar n f n f +.-+
f f r r rf +
- - f nn rnr f f a n rnr+.+
Cau.: krati bidhu tumha knha an up, jaha basa rma pema mgar up.
tta galni karahu jiya je , arahu daridrahi prasu pe .1.
sunahu bharata hama jh uha na kahah

, udsna tpasa bana rahah

.
saba sdhana kara suphala suhv, lakhana rma siya darasanu pv.2.
tehi phala kara phalu darasa tumhr, sahita payga subhga hamr.
bharata dhanya tumha jasu jagu jaya u, kahi asa pema magana muni bhaya u.3.
suni muni bacana sabhsada harae, sdhu sarhi sumana sura barae.
dhanya dhanya dhuni gagana payg, suni suni bharatu magana anurg.4.
"You have created the peerless moon of your glory, which bears on it the figure
of a deer* in the shape of love for Rma. You feel distressed at heart, dear son, for no
purpose: you fear poverty even though you have found the philosopher's stone. Listen,
BharataI tell no falsehood, I am an ascetic dwelling in the forest and having no concern
with the worldI obtained the happy and excellent reward of all spiritual practices when
I saw Lakmaa, Rma and St. The reward of that reward itself is your sight, on which
not only I but the whole of Prayga deserves to be congratulated. Bharata, you deserve
all praise since by your glory you have conquered the whole world. As he concluded his
speech the sage was overwhelmed with love. Those who were assembled there rejoiced
to hear the sages words, while the gods acclaimed Bharata and rained flowers on him.
Even as Bharata heard the shouts of applause in the heavens as well as in Prayga he
was overwhelmed with emotion. (14)
0 nra f r f r=
f r f zff r nn + {+
Do.: pulaka gta hiya rmu siya sajala saroruha naina,
kari pranmu muni maalihi bole gadagada baina.210.
Experiencing a thrill of joy all over his body, with his heart full of St and Rma
and his lotus eyes wet with tears he made obeisance to the conclave of sages and thus
spoke in a voice choked with emotion: (210)
0f r = atr rf rrr; r+
f f f r; f f rr r;+.{+
ar s far s art rrr+
rf ra a r f f n rff r+.+
rf z= fnff r fa rf r+
a f r f r f a r+.-+
* The spot in the moon is represented by the Hindus as a deer even as it is presented in European
nurseries as the form of a man.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
538
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
r f af a n r n+
r f f n t f f ff t+.+
Cau.: muni samju aru tratharj u, s

cihu sapatha aghi akj u.

ehi thala jau kichu kahia ban, ehi sama adhika na agha adham.1.
tumha sarbagya kahau satibh u, ura atarajm raghur u.
mohi na mtu karataba kara soc u, nahi

dukhu jiya jagu jnihi poc u.2.

nhina aru bigarihi paralok u, pitahu marana kara mohi na sok u.
sukta sujasa bhari bhuana suhe, lachimana rma sarisa suta pe.3.
rma biraha taji tanu chanabhag u, bhupa soca kara kavana prasagu.
rma lakhana siya binu paga panah

, kari muni bea phirahi

bana banah

.4.
"Here is an assembly of sages and we stand at a place which is known as the
king of sacred places. Great harm will come to a man if he states even a fact on oath
at such a place. And if one tells a lie there will be no greater sin and depravity. I speak
out the truth knowing as I do that you are all-wise, while the Lord of Raghus has access
to the inmost recesses of one's heart. I am not at all sorry for what my mother has done
nor am I troubled at heart over the thought that the world will look upon me as mean. I
fear not lest I should spoil my future life nor do I grieve over my father's death, whose
meritorious deeds and fair renown shine forth throughout the universe, who had sons like
Lakmaa and r Rma, and who quitted his frail body as a result of his separation from
r Rma. Thus there is hardly any occasion for lamentation on his account. What pains
me is that dressing themselves as hermits r Rma, Lakmaa and St roam from
forest to forest without shoes on their feet. (14)
0f f zrf ra
f a= a fa a f ra r ra+ {{+
Do.: ajina basana phala asana mahi sayana si kusa pta,
basi taru tara nita sahata hima tapa bara bta.211.
"Clad in deerskin, living on bare fruits, reposing on the ground overspread with
Kua grass and leaves and halting under trees they ever endure cold and sunshine, rain
and storm!" (211)
0f r ; f rat r t rat+
f rn rt rs ft rt+.{+
ra a ; rr r af r fa t- r+
f r t- r nrfz f f f r+.+
rf fn r af rr rrrf n rrr+
f; rn r ff r ; f r sr+.-+
a f f r; f tf- rfa zr;+
ara f r ft fff r n t+.+
Cau.: ehi dukha dha dahai dina cht, bh ukha na bsara nda na rt.
ehi kuroga kara auadhu nh

, sodheu sakala bisva mana mh

.1.
mtu kumata baRha agha mul, tehi

hamra hita knha ba s ul.

kali kukha kara knha kujatru, gRi avadhi paRhi kahina kumatru.2.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
539
mohi lagi yahu kuhu tehi

h, ghlesi saba jagu brahab.

miai kujogu rma phiri e , basai avadha nahi

na upe .3.
bharata bacana suni muni sukhu p, sabahi

knhi bahu bh

ti baR.
tta karahu jani socu bise, saba dukhu miihi rma paga dekh.4.
"It is this burning agony which is ever consuming my breast, so that I feel no appetite
by day and get no sleep at night. For this fell disease there is no remedy: I have mentally
ransacked the whole world. My mother's evil counsel was like a sinful carpenter, who used
my interests as an adze and fashioned out of the inauspicious wood of discord a destructive
magical contrivance and muttering the terrible malevolent spell of (r Rma's) exile for a
fixed term (of fourteen years) planted it (in the soil of Ayodhy).* It is for my sake that she
employed this infamous contrivance and brought ruin on the whole world. This calamity will
cease only when r Rma returns; by no other means can Ayodhy thrive again." The
sage (Bharadvja) was gratified to hear Bharata's words and everyone applauded him in
ways more than one. "Grieve not much, dear child; all your woes will disappear the moment
you behold r Rma's feet." (14)
0f r f s faf f r
f f r+ {+
Do.: kari prabodhu munibara kaheu atithi pemapriya hohu,
kada mula phala phula hama dehi

lehu kari chohu.212.

After comforting him (thus) the chief of the sages, Bharadvja, said, "Be my
beloved guest and deign to accept the bulbs, roots, fruits and flowers that we may
offer you." (212)
0f f a f r s f r+
rf n=; n fnr rt f r rt+.{+
f f r f arrr r rr+
a f r f f f rr+.+
rf tf- a r; r r;+
f r f fa- f r fa f f r fr+.-+
ff r r z ar af r rf ar+
f ff ff frf r; r r; r f nrr;+.+
Cau.: suni muni bacana bharata hiya soc u, bhayau kuavasara kahina sa koc u.
jni garui gura gir bahor, carana badi bole kara jor.1.
sira dhari yasu karia tumhr, parama dharama yahu ntha hamr.
bharata bacana munibara mana bhe, suci sevaka sia nikaa bole.2.
chia knhi bharata pahun, kada m ula phala nahu j.
bhalehi

ntha kahi tinha sira ne, pramudita nija nija kja sidhe.3.
munihi soca phuna baRa nevat, tasi p uj chia jasa devat.
suni ridhi sidhi animdika

, yasu hoi so karahi

gos

.4.
* This evidently refers to a magical contrivance, intended to drive out an enemy from his home, in
which wood is cut during a particular period from the tree known as the helleric myrobalan and after
fashioning a pin out of it the same is planted in the enemy's house with the recitation of some spells. This is
believed to bring the desired result.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
540
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
On hearing the sage's words Bharata was troubled at heart; for he was faced with
a hard puzzle at a difficult time. Then, realizing the weightiness of an elder's command
he adored the sage's feet and replied with joined palms, "Your orders must be
respectfully obeyed; this is my paramount duty, my lord." Bharata's reply pleased the
great sage (Bharadvja), who called his trusty servants and pupils by his side. "Bharata
ought to be entertained; therefore, go and bring bulbs, roots and fruits." They bowed their
heads with the words 'very well, sir!' and most gladly proceeded to take charge of their
respective duties. The sage anxiously thought that he had invited a distinguished guest
and that a deity must be worshipped according to his or her rank. Hearing of this riches
of various kinds (Riddhis) and supernatural powers (Siddhis) like Aim (the power of
assuming atomic size) appeared (in a visible form) and said, "We are prepared to do your
bidding, O lord." (14)
0r f r a r fa r
r; f >r r fa fr+ {-+
Do.: rma biraha bykula bharatu snuja sahita samja,
pahun kari harahu rama kah mudita munirja.213.
"Bharata as well as his younger brother (atrughna) and the whole company are
distressed due to their separation from Rma. Entertain them and relieve them of their
fatigue," the great sage gladly said. (213)
0ff ff f f f rt zrfnf rf rt+
f ff r; afa faf r rr r;+.{+
f f f r; r r; t r r+
f s =f n rr f frf frf frr+.+
rn ffa f f r a f-f fr+
rt r r t- rna f f t-+.-+
r f ff rt rt +
f r f t r =f t+.+
Cau.: ridhi sidhi sira dhari munibara bn, baRabhgini puhi anumn.
kahahi

parasapara sidhi samud, atulita atithi rma laghu bh.1.

muni pada badi karia soi j u, hoi sukh saba rja samj u.
asa kahi raceu rucira gha nn, jehi biloki bilakhhi

bimn.2.
bhoga bibhuti bhuri bhari rkhe, dekhata jinhahi amara abhile.
ds

dsa sju saba lnhe , jogavata rahahi

manahi manu dnhe .3.

saba samju saji sidhi pala mh

, je sukha surapura sapanehu nh

.
prathamahi

bsa die saba keh, sudara sukhada jath ruci jeh.4.

The riches and supernatural powers in their embodied forms bowed to the
command of the great sage and deemed themselves highly favoured. The Siddhis said
to one another, "r Rma's younger brother (Bharata) is a guest beyond compare.
Bowing at the sage's feet let us do that which may gratify the whole of the royal party.
So saying they erected beautiful dwellings of various patterns, which put to shame by
their appearance the aerial cars of gods. They were replete with abundant luxuries and
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
541
splendours, which were coveted by immortals. Equipped with necessaries of all kinds
men-servants and maid-servants remained in attendance focussing their attention on the
pleasure of the guests. The Siddhis provided in an instant all the amenities which cannot
be dreamt of even in heaven. First of all they assigned to each of the guests quarters
that were charming and comfortable and suited to the taste of the occupant. (14)
0f f a ff r t-
ff f r f f a t-+ {+
Do.: bahuri saparijana bharata kahu rii asa yasu dnha,
bidhi bisamaya dyaku bibhava munibara tapabala knha.214.
Thereafter Bharata and his family were assigned quarters; for such were the
instructions given by the sage. By dint of his penance the great sage produced wealth
that astonished the Creator (Brahm) himself. (214)
0f rs a frr rr n rfa rr+
r f r; rt a ffa frf rt+.{+
r farr rfr fn n rr+
f f rr f r ff frr+.+
r f f t f rn ra t +
t a= t f fr t +.-+
fa a frf rt r rt+
n farf rnr f f rnr+.+
Cau.: muni prabhu jaba bharata bilok, saba laghu lage lokapati lok.
sukha samju nahi

ji bakhn, dekhata birati bisrahi

gyn.1.
sana sayana subasana bitn, bana bik bihaga mga nn.
surabhi phula phala amia samn, bimala jalsaya bibidha bidhn.2.
asana pna suci amia am se, dekhi loga sakucta jam se.
sura surabh surataru sabah ke , lakhi abhilu suresa sac ke .3.
ritu basata baha tribidha bayr, saba kaha sulabha padratha cr.
sraka cadana banitdika bhog, dekhi haraa bisamaya basa log.4.
When Bharata beheld the sage's power, the realms of all the rulers of the spheres
looked small in his eyes. The luxuries were more than one could describe; the wise
would forget their dispassion on seeing them. There were seats and couches, drapery,
canopies, groves and gardens, birds and beasts of different species, sweet-scented
flowers and fruits tasting like ambrosia, many a lake and pond of limpid water, foods and
drinks of an undefiled and innocent character, which were more delicious than nectar
and ambrosia, and which the guests would hesitate to accept like so many ascetics.
Every house was supplied with a celestial cow (the cow of plenty) and a tree of paradise;
Indra (the king of gods) and his consort, ac, grew covetous at their sight. It was the
vernal season and a cool, fragrant and gentle breeze was blowing. Everyone had all the
four prizes of life (viz., religious merit, worldly riches, sensuous enjoyment and final
beatitude) within ones easy reach. At the sight of luxuries like garlands, sandal-paste
and women the guests were overcome by a mixed feeling of joy and sorrow (joy at the
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
542
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
unique hospitality shown by the sage by dint of his Yogic powers and sorrow because
at a time when they should abstain from luxuries of every kind they were being offered
the same). (14)
0fa ; a f r r
af ff r>r fr r r fr+ {~+
Do.: sapati caka bharatu caka muni yasa khelavra,
tehi nisi rama pijar

rkhe bh bhinusra.215.
Affluence, like a female Cakravka bird, and Bharata, as her mate, were imprisoned
together that night in the cage of the hermitage by the sages order, which may be
compared here with a playful child. And they remained there till it was dawn.* (215)
[PAUSE 19 FOR A THIRTY-DAY RECITATION]
0t- fr atrr r; ff f= fa rr+
ff r t f rt f za f rt+.{+
nfa r t- frf fa t-+
rr t- rn a f rn+.+
f rr t f rr a rr+
r f rt a f a rt+.-+
r r f fr s rn a f r+
f r ff r ; f n n r+.+
Cau.: knha nimajjanu tratharj, ni munihi siru sahita samj.
rii yasu assa sira rkh, kari daavata binaya bahu bh.1.
patha gati kusala stha saba lnhe , cale citrak uahi

citu dnhe .
rmasakh kara dnhe lgu, calata deha dhari janu anurgu.2.
nahi

pada trna ssa nahi

chy, pemu nemu bratu dharamu amy.

lakhana rma siya patha kahn, pu

chata sakhahi kahata mdu bn.3.

rma bsa thala biapa biloke , ura anurga rahata nahi

roke .
dekhi das sura barisahi

phul, bhai mdu mahi magu magala mul.4.

Bharata and his party took a dip into the Trive (the confluence of the Gag,
Yamun and Sarasvat), the chief of sacred places, and bowed their head to the sage
(Bharadvja). Bharata reverently received his orders and blessings and prostrating himself
made much supplication. Accompanied by expert guides and taking the whole host along-
with him he proceeded on his journey with his thoughts directed towards Citrakua. Holding
r Rmas friend (Guha) by the hand he walked along like the very incarnation of love. He
had no shoes and no umbrella over his head; and his love, self-discipline, austerity and
piety were unfeigned. He asked his friend (Guha) to give an account of the wanderings of
Lakmaa, r Rma and St; while Guha narrated the same in soft accents. When he
* The metaphor is intended to show that just as a Cakravka pair would never unite even though
caught in a cage and would spend the whole night turning their back upon each other, likewise Bharata did
not even care to look at the luxuries in the midst of which he was forced to remain overnight. He kept
scrupulously aloof from them.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
543
saw the spots where r Rma had rested and the trees under which he had halted the
emotion within his breast could not be repressed. The gods who beheld his condition rained
down flowers; the earth grew soft and the road became pleasant. (14)
0f rf rr ; ra
a n s r r af ra+ {+
Do.: kie jhi

chy jalada sukhada bahai bara bta,

tasa magu bhayau na rma kaha jasa bh bharatahi jta.216.
The clouds afforded him shade all along and a delightful and excellent breeze
kept blowing. The journey was not so agreeable to r Rma as it proved to be for
Bharata. (216)
0z a n t rr fa f- +
a rn a r rn+.{+
fz ra a ; rt fa ff r rt+
r r a n ra a ar a+.+
a r f f rr rar r; n nrar+
fq r f t af ff f t+.-+
f rs f r n f r r+
n s f r; rf af r;+.+
Cau.: jaRa cetana maga jva ghanere, je citae prabhu jinha prabhu here.
te saba bhae parama pada jog u, bharata darasa me bhava rog u.1.
yaha baRi bta bharata kai nh

, sumirata jinahi rmu mana mh

.
braka rma kahata jaga je u, hota tarana trana nara te u.2.
bharatu rma priya puni laghu bhrt, kasa na hoi magu magaladt.
siddha sdhu munibara asa kahah

, bharatahi nirakhi harau hiya lahah

.3.
dekhi prabhu suresahi soc u, jagu bhala bhalehi poca kahu poc u.
gura sana kaheu karia prabhu so, rmahi bharatahi bhea na ho.4.
The numberless beings, both animate and inanimate, that saw the Lord or were
seen by the Lord in their turn, had been rendered fit for the highest state; the sight of
Bharata now finally rid them of the disease of transmigration. This was no great thing for
Bharata, whom r Rma ever cherished in His heart. Even they who utter the name
of Rma only once in this world not only reach the other shore themselves but are also
able to take others across. As for Bharata, he is dearly loved by r Rma and is His
younger brother too. No wonder, then, that the journey should be delightful to him,
Siddhas (a class of celestial beings), saints and great sages observed thus and rejoiced
at heart to behold Bharata. Indra (the chief of gods) was filled with anxiety when he saw
Bharatas power. The world is good to the good and vile for the vile. He said to his
preceptor (the sage Bhaspati), Something must be done, my lord, to prevent the
meeting between Rma and Bharata. (14)
0r rt a rf
t ra n fa f a rf+ {+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
544
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
Do.: rmu sa koc prema basa bharata sapema payodhi,
ban bta begarana cahati karia jatanu chalu sodhi.217.
r Rma is scrupulous by nature and is won by love, while Bharata is an ocean
of affection. What has already been accomplished thus threatens to be undone;
therefore, finding out some stratagem let us use it as a remedial measure. (217)
0 a n= r f r r+
rrfa rr ; a sf ; rr+.{+
a f t- r = rt rf f r;f rt+
rrr r f r frf r+.+
r r na ; r r r r ;+
r ffa ;farr fr rf rr+.-+
a f r r t n r r t+.+
Cau.: bacana sunata suraguru musukne, sahasanayana binu locana jne.
mypati sevaka sana my, karai ta ulai parai surary.1.
taba kichu knha rma rukha jn, aba kucli kari hoihi hn.
sunu suresa raghuntha subh u, nija apardha rishi

na ku.2.
jo apardhu bhagata kara kara, rma roa pvaka so jara.
lokahu beda bidita itihs, yaha mahim jnahi

durabs.3.
bharata sarisa ko rma saneh, jagu japa rma rmu japa jeh.4.
Hearing his words the preceptor of the gods smiled and realized that, though
endowed with a thousand eyes, Indra was really blind, (lacked discernment). He said,
If anyone practises deception on a devotee of r Rma (the Lord of My), it recoils
on the artificer himself. O king of gods! Last time we did something knowing that it had
r Rmas tacit approval; but by resorting to some underhand means this time we are
sure to meet with disaster. Listen, O lord of gods; it is r Rmas nature not to be angry
at any offence against Himself. But he who sins against His devotees is surely
consumed in the fire of His wrath. The story is well known both in the world as well as
in the Vedas: the sage Durvs* know this glorious trait of r Rmas character. Has
* We read in the Puras how the sage Durvs, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord iva
and was noted for his irascible nature, once called on King Ambara, a great devotee of Bhagavn Viu. It
happened to be a Dvda (the twelfth day of a lunar fortnight). The king naturally invited the sage to dine at
his palace and the latter accepted his invitation and went to the river bank to take his bath. The king had fasted
on the previous day and according to the scriptural injunctions it was necessary that he should break his fast
while it was Dvda. The sage, however, did not return in time and the pious king would never break his fast
until the sage had taken his meals. He was, therefore in a fix and consulted Brhmaas on the point. The
Brhmaas advised the king to observe the formality of breaking his fast by sipping a spoonful of water in
which the feet of the Lords image had been immersed. By doing so he would not be guilty of dining before the
invitee and would also be saved from the offence of not breaking his fast during the Dvda. No sooner had
the king sipped the holy water than the sage returned from the river bank and flew into a rage when he learnt
that the king had broken his fast and did not await his return. He pulled out a hair from his head and produced
therefrom a demoness known by the name of Kty, which ran to devour the king. Ambara, who had
dedicated himself to the feet of the Lord, and absolutely depended on Him, remained standing where he was
and neither shrank out of fear nor made any attempt to save himself.
The Lord, however, would not allow his devotee to die without any fault of his and despatched
His own discus, Sudarana, to save his life. The discus ran after the demoness and having disposed of
her pursued the sage himself, who ran for his life and wandered throughout the universe for full one year,
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
545
anyone loved Rma even as Bharata, whose name is ever on the lips of Rma, while
Rmas name is repeated by the whole world? (14)
0 rf fa rr na r
r r f f r r+ {c+
Do.: manahu na nia amarapati raghubara bhagata akju,
ajasu loka paraloka dukha dina dina soka samju.218.
Never harbour in your mind, O Lord of the immortals, even the thought of
frustrating the purpose of a devotee of r Rma (the Chief of Raghus line); for the same
will bring you infamy in this world, sorrow in the next and a series of woes in your day-
to-day life. (218)
0 s rr rf frr+
ra r; = fr;+.{+
uf f rn r nf r n r+
r ft f rr r ; r a rr+.+
af f f frr na na z rr+
n r r n na +.-+
r r =f rt r r rt+
f rf a fr; a tfa r;+.+
Cau.: sunu suresa upadesu hamr, rmahi sevaku parama pir.
mnata sukhu sevaka sevak

, sevaka baira bairu adhik

.1.
jadyapi sama nahi

rga na ro u, gahahi

na ppa p unu guna do u.
karama pradhna bisva kari rkh, jo jasa karai so tasa phalu ckh.2.
tadapi karahi

sama biama bihr, bhagata abhagata hdaya anusr.
aguna alepa amna ekarasa, rmu saguna bhae bhagata pema basa.3.
rma sad sevaka ruci rkh, beda purna sdhu sura skh.
asa jiya jni tajahu kuil, karahu bharata pada prti suh.4.
Hear our advice, O king of gods! A devotee is supremely dear to r Rma; He
is gratified through service rendered to His devotees, and bears great enmity to those
who are hostile to them. Even though the Lord is alike to all without either love or anger
and receives neither sin nor virtue, neither merit nor demerit, and even though He has
made Fate the ruling factor in this world, so that one reaps what one sows, yet according
as one possesses the heart of a devotee or an unbeliever He appears to be impartial
or hostile in His dealings. Though devoid of attributes, unattached, free from pride and
ever unchanged, r Rma has assumed a form with attributes yielding to the love of His
but none afforded him shelter. Even Bhagavn Viu pleaded His helplessness and asked him to
approach the king himself and ask for his forgiveness. The king, who was too good to harbour any ill-
will against the sage and out of sympathy for him had remained without any food ever since he left, was
moved to pity at his predicament and prayed to the Lords weapon, Sudarana, to spare the Brhmaa.
Sudarana granted the kings prayer and left. The sage, who now realized the kings greatness, fell at
his feet and craved for his forgiveness for what he had done. The king in his turn felt sorry for the hardships
which the sage had to suffer on his account and bade him good-bye after entertaining him to a sumptuous
dinner and showing him every respect.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
546
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
devotees. r Rma has ever respected the wishes of His devotees: the Vedas and
Puras as well as saints and gods can bear testimony to this. Bearing this in mind give
up perversity and cherish ideal love for Bharatas feet. (14)
0r na fa fa t r
na frf a a f z r+ {+
Do.: rma bhagata parahita nirata para dukha dukh dayla,
bhagata siromani bharata te jani arapahu surapla.219.
r Rmas devotees are actively engaged doing good to others, share the
sorrows of others and are compassionate by nature. And Bharata is the very crest-jewel
of devotees; therefore, be not afraid of him, O ruler of gods. (219)
0- fart a r r rt+
tr f f ar r a r f rs r+.{+
f n rt r r ft nrt+
f f r n r a r+.+
f ff a n rt r f f fq frt +
f r f f srr sna rr+.-+
f f f rr r; rr+
t r f f r ff t= r r+.+
Cau.: satyasadha prabhu sura hitakr, bharata rma yasa anusr.
svratha bibasa bikala tumha hohu, bharata dosu nahi

rura moh u.1.

suni surabara suragura bara bn, bh pramodu mana mi galn.
barai prasuna harai surar u, lage sarhana bharata subhu.2.
ehi bidhi bharata cale maga jh

, das dekhi muni siddha sihh

.
jabahi

rmu kahi lehi

uss, umagata pemu manahu cahu ps.3.

dravahi

bacana suni kulisa pan, purajana pemu na ji bakhn.
bca bsa kari jamunahi

e, nirakhi nru locana jala che.4.

The Lord is true to His word and a friend of the gods, while Bharata obeys r
Rmas orders. You are feeling uneasy only because you are dominated by self-interest.
Bharata is not to blame at all; it is your ignorance (which is responsible for your uneasiness).
The chief of gods, Indra, was overjoyed at heart to hear these valuable words of the
heavenly preceptor and his depression of spirit was gone. The lord of celestials, therefore,
rained down flowers and gladly began to extol Bharatas noble disposition. In this way
Bharata went on his way, while sages and Siddhas were filled with envy at the sight of his
condition. Whenever he heaved a long sigh with the word Rma on his lips, it seemed as
if love overflowed on all sides. Even adamant and stones melted at his words; the love of
the citizens was beyond description. Halting at one place on this side the party arrived on
the bank of the Yamun and Bharatas eyes were filled with tears as he gazed on its dark
water (which reminded him of r Rmas swarthy form). (14)
0rr frf rf a r
ra n rff f f r+ +
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
547
Do.: raghubara barana biloki bara bri sameta samja,
hota magana bridhi biraha caRhe bibeka jahja.220.
At the sight of the lovely stream that possessed the same hue as the person of
r Rma (the Chief of Raghus line) Bharata and his party were plunged into an ocean
of grief on account to separation from r Rma and were saved from drowning only by
boarding the bark of discretion. (220)
0 at af f f r s f r+
rfaf rrr rrr t at r; nfa rf t+.{+
ra r f r ar rr t r+
r; ff f r; r frr rs r;+.+
rn f r r rr r; r+
af r rs r f r +.-+
z fa rr fa t rrrr+
r r f>rrr a a f rr+.+
Cau.: jamuna tra tehi dina kari bs u, bhayau samaya sama sabahi supsu.
rtihi

gha gha k taran,

aganita jhi

na baran.1.
prta pra bhae ekahi khev

, toe rmasakh k sev

.
cale nahi nadihi sira n, stha nidantha dou bh.2.
ge munibara bhana che , rjasamja ji sabu pche .
tehi pche dou badhu payde , bhuana basana bea suhi sde .3.
sevaka suhda sacivasuta sth, sumirata lakhanu sya raghunth.
jaha jaha rma bsa birm, taha taha karahi

saprema pranm.4.
That day they halted on the bank of the Yamun; everyone was provided with
comforts according to the occasion. In course of the night innumerable boats of untold
varieties came from all the ghats. At daybreak the whole party crossed the river in a
single trip; everyone was pleased with the services rendered by the Nida chief in
this behalf. After performing their ablutions and bowing their heads to the river
(Yamun) the two brothers (Bharata and atrughna) resumed their journey with the
lord of Nidas. At the head of the line in chosen vehicles travelled the principal sages
(Vmadeva, Vasiha and so on), followed by the royal host. Next followed the two
royal brothers, both on foot; their ornaments, costumes and style of dress were all of
the very simplest. They were accompanied by their servants, friends and the ministers
son and went with their thoughts fixed on Lakmaa, St and the Lord of Raghus.
They lovingly saluted each and every place where r Rma had either encamped or
rested awhile. (14)
0nrt rf f r r af r;
f = fa r;+ {+
Do.: magabs nara nri suni dhma kma taji dhi,
dekhi sarupa saneha saba mudita janama phalu pi.221.
Hearing the news the men and women who lived by the roadside left their
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
548
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
household work and ran after the royal travellers, and having seen their comely form and
affection they all rejoiced on attaining the reward of their life. (221)
0f rt r f rf f rt+
= r; rt t f rt+.{+
r f t nr rn t t anr+
f r r r f r; f r+.+
ar a fan rt f af rt+
af rf rt f t rt fa t+.-+
f rn f ff r r n+
af f r rnt t r rnt+.+
Cau.: kahahi

sapema eka eka ph

, rmu lakhanu sakhi hohi

ki nh

.
baya bapu barana rupu soi l, slu sanehu sarisa sama cl.1.
beu na so sakhi sya na sag, ge an cal caturag.
nahi

prasanna mukha mnasa khed, sakhi sadehu hoi ehi

bhed.2.
tsu taraka tiyagana mana mn, kahahi

sakala tehi sama na sayn.

tehi sarhi bn phuri p uj, bol madhura bacana tiya d uj.3.
kahi sapema saba kathprasag u, jehi bidhi rma rja rasa bhag u.
bharatahi bahuri sarhana lg, sla saneha subhya subhg.4.
One woman lovingly said to another, Friend, can they be Rma and Lakmaa
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 Rma and Lakmaa. Only their dress is not the same and they are not accompanied
by St, 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
Rma and Lakmaa, 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 r Rmas installation had been
obstructed. She then began to praise Bharatas amiability, affection, genial disposition
and goodluck. (14)
0a r ra far t- af r
ra r rrf a f r r+ +
Do.: calata payde khta phala pit dnha taji rju,
jta manvana raghubarahi bharata sarisa ko ju.222.
Journeying on foot, living on fruits and relinquishing the sovereignty bestowed by
his father, Bharata is proceeding to persuade the chief of Raghus line to return. Who can
equal Bharata today? (222)
0r nfa a r a a +
r f r f r; r r r;+.{+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
549
r af ;- - at +
f n f r fart ; f rn a rt+.+
rs rff rf ff t- f r rf+
r ff tt rr fa afa tt+.-+
f nr rr - frr+
ff fa n rr =f a= rr+.+
Cau.: bhyapa bhagati bharata caran u, kahata sunata dukha duana haranu.
jo kichu kahaba thora sakhi so, rma badhu asa khe na ho.1.
hama saba snuja bharatahi dekhe , bhainha dhanya jubat jana lekhe .
suni guna dekhi das pachith

, kaikai janani jogu sutu nh

.2.
kou kaha duanu rnihi nhina, bidhi sabu knha hamahi jo dhina.
kaha hama loka beda bidhi hn, laghu tiya kula karat uti maln.3.
basahi

kudesa kug

va kubm, kaha yaha darasu punya parinm.

asa anadu aciriju prati grm, janu marubh umi kalapataru jm.4.
Bharatas brotherly affection, devotion and conduct dispel the woes and evil of
those who talk or hear of them. Whatever may be said with regard to them, dear friend,
will be quite inadequate; it is no wonder that a brother of Rma should be like that. All
of us who have seen Bharata and his younger brother have become praiseworthy among
women. Hearing of his virtues and seeing his forlorn state they lamented, Surely he
is not a fit son for such a vile mother as Kaikey. Someone said, The queen-mother
(Kaikey) is not to blame at all; all this has been accomplished by God, who is so
favourably disposed to us. Of what account are we, vile women, excluded both from
secular and Vedic rites and impure by birth as well as by doings, who dwell in an
accursed region (woodland) and in a wretched village and are the worst of our class, that
we should have such a sight, which is a reward of great religious merit? There was a
similar rejoicing and wonder in every village: it seemed as if a celestial tree had sprung
up in a desert. (14)
0a a s n rn- rn
frrrf- s ff rn+ -+
Do.: bharata darasu dekhata khuleu maga loganha kara bhgu,
janu sighalabsinha bhayau bidhi basa sulabha praygu.223.
At the sight of Bharata the good fortune of the people by the roadside manifested
itself as though by the will of Providence Prayga had been brought within easy reach
of the people of Sihala (Ceylon). (223)
0f n fa r n nrr a rf fa rrrr+
at f r>r rr ff frf f rr+.{+
t rnf = t r +
ff fra r rt r at srt+.+
f r f f at f r t+
a rr t af f t+.-+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
550
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
f a f r +
f ff ra f rt a r r rt+.+
Cau.: nija guna sahita rma guna gth, sunata jhi

sumirata raghunth.
tratha muni rama suradhm, nirakhi nimajjahi

karahi

pranm.1.
manah

mana mgahi

baru ehu, sya rma pada paduma sanehu.

milahi

kirta kola banabs, baikhnasa bau jat uds.2.

kari pranmu pu

chahi

jehi teh, kehi bana lakhanu rmu baideh.

te prabhu samcra saba kahah

, bharatahi dekhi janama phalu lahah

.3.
je jana kahahi

kusala hama dekhe, te priya rma lakhana sama lekhe.

ehi bidhi b ujhata sabahi subn, sunata rma banabsa kahn.4.
Hearing his own praises as well as of r Rmas virtues Bharata went on his way,
thinking of r Rma. Whenever he happened to see holy waters he bathed in them and
whenever he caught sight of a hermitage or a temple he made obeisance to it, asking
in his heart only one boon, viz., devotion to the lotus-feet of St and Rma. Whomsoever
he met, be he a Kola or any other forester or even if he were an anchorite, a religious
student, a recluse or a hermit, he would salute him and enquire in which part of the forest
were Lakmaa, Rma and Videhas daughter (St). They told him all the news of the
Lord and at the sight of Bharata obtained the reward of their life. Those persons who said
they had seen the Lord doing well were counted as dear as r Rma and Lakmaa
themselves. Thus in polite phrases he would make enquiries from all and hear the story
of r Rmas forest life. (14)
0af r f rat ff rrr
r t rr a f r+ +
Do.: tehi bsara basi prtah

cale sumiri raghuntha,

rma darasa k llas bharata sarisa saba stha.224.
Halting that day in a suitable place he resumed his journey early next morning
invoking the Lord of Raghus. Just like Bharata everyone who accompanied him longed
for a sight of r Rma. (224)
0n n rf r f fr r+
af fa r sr fff r fff r+.{+
a r f r rf r r+
ff n n n zfn zrf f rf+.+
rr af rr frf rr+
r t fa atr t a f rs tr+.-+
f f z rr f rf t rr+
n r r ff rrr+.+
Cau.: magala saguna hohi

saba kh u, pharakahi

sukhada bilocana bhu.

bharatahi sahita samja uchh u, milihahi

rmu miihi dukha dh u.1.

karata manoratha jasa jiya jke, jhi

saneha sur

saba chke.
sithila aga paga maga agi olahi
,
bihabala bacana pema basa bolahi

.2.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
551
rmasakh

tehi samaya dekhv, saila siromani sahaja suhv.

jsu sampa sarita paya tr, sya sameta basahi

dou br.3.
dekhi karahi

saba daa pranm, kahi jaya jnaki jvana rm.

prema magana asa rja samju, janu phiri avadha cale raghurj u.4.
Auspicious omens occurred to everyone; they had happy throbbings in their eyes
and arms. Bharata and his whole host rejoiced at the thought that they would be able to
see r Rma and the sting of their sorrows would come to an end. Each indulged in his
own fancy and all went intoxicated with the wine of love; their limbs were getting out of
control, their legs tottered and they spoke words in an incoherent way due to emotion.
r Rmas friend (Guha) presently pointed to Bharata the crest-jewel of mountains
(Kmadagiri), which was naturally charming and in the vicinity of which on the bank of
the river Payasvin dwelt the two brothers (r Rma and Lakmaa) alongwith St.
Catching sight of the mountain all fell prostrate on the ground with the cries of "Glory to
r Rma, the life of Janaka's daughter!" The royal host was so overwhelmed with
emotion as though the Chief of Raghu's line had turned back towards Ayodhy. (14)
0a af a f ;
ff n ff zr f + ~+
Do.: bharata premu tehi samaya jasa tasa kahi sakai na seu,
kabihi agama jimi brahmasukhu aha mama malina janeu.25.
Bharata's love at that time was more than ea (the thousand-headed serpent-
king) could describe. It is as unapproachable to the poet as the bliss of absorption into
Brahma to those who are tainted by egotism and mineness. (225)
0 ff rr n r ; f +
f ff ta t- n rrr fta+.{+
sr r t r rn t r+
fa r a r r frn ar a ar+.+
f t rt t r r rt+
f f r r r fr+.-+
t r; f r r;f r;+
f a r f rf r r+.+
Cau.: sakala saneha sithila raghubara ke , gae kosa dui dinakara harake .
jalu thalu dekhi base nisi bte , knha gavana raghuntha pirte .1.
uh

rmu rajan avase, jge sya sapana asa dekh.

sahita samja bharata janu e, ntha biyoga tpa tana te.2.
sakala malina mana dna dukhr, dekh

ssu na anuhr.
suni siya sapana bhare jala locana, bhae socabasa soca bimocana.3.
lakhana sapana yaha nka na ho, kahina kucha sunihi ko.
asa kahi badhu sameta nahne, p uji purri sdhu sanamne.4.
Being all overpowered by love for the Chief of Raghu's line they had covered a
distance of only four miles by the time the sun set. Perceiving a suitable site and water
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
552
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
close by they halted and at the close of night the beloved of r Rma resumed his
journey. There r Rma awoke while it was yet dark. St saw in a dream that very night
as if Bharata had come with his retinue and that his body was tormented by the agony
of separation from his lord. All who had accompanied him were sad at heart, miserable
and afflicted; while Her mothers-in-law She found changed in appearance. On hearing of
St's dream r Rma's eyes filled with tears and He who rids others of their sorrow
became sorrowful. "This dream, Lakmaa, bodes no good; somebody will break terribly
bad news." Saying so He took His bath with His brother and worshipping the Enemy of
Tripura, Lord iva, paid His respects to holy men. (14)
U0rf f f sa ff a
f n n f rn f r>r n+
at s rf r r fa fa
rr fra rf- r; af +
Cha.:sanamni sura muni badi baihe utara disi dekhata bhae,
nabha dhuri khaga mga bhuri bhge bikala prabhu rama gae.
tulas uhe avaloki kranu kha cita sacakita rahe,
saba samcra kirta kolanhi i tehi avasara kahe.
After adoring the gods and reverencing the hermits He sat down gazing to the
north. There was dust in the air and a host of birds and beasts had taken to flight in panic
and were making their way to the Lord's hermitage. Says Tulasdsa: He stood up when
He saw this and wondered in his heart what could be the reason. Presently the Kolas
and Kirtas came and told Him all the news.
0a n r a
r= at + +
So.: sunata sumagala baina mana pramoda tana pulaka bhara,
sarada saroruha naina tulas bhare saneha jala.226.
When He heard the delightful words He felt overjoyed at heart. A thrill ran through
His body and His eyes, that resembled the autumnal lotus, says Tulasdsa, filled with
the tears of affection. (226)
0f r f r a rn+
r; r rt n an rt+.{+
r f rf r fa r ;a fa ;a r+
a rs fr rt fa fa ffa ra rt+.+
rr a r r a r r+
s z r= a tfa fr=+.-+
f s nrr; t fr; +
ar frf trt rf fr s nrt+.+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
553
Cau.: bahuri socabasa bhe siyaravan u, krana kavana bharata gavanu.
eka i asa kah bahor, sena saga caturaga na thor.1.
so suni rmahi bh ati soc u, ita pitu baca ita badhu sakoc u.
bharata subhu samujhi mana mh

, prabhu cita hita thiti pvata nh

.2.
samdhna taba bh yaha jne, bharatu kahe mahu sdhu sayne.
lakhana lakheu prabhu hdaya khabhr u, kahata samaya sama nti bicr u.3.
binu puche kachu kahau gos

, sevaku samaya na hha hih

.
tumha sarbagya siromani svm, pani samujhi kahau anugm.4.
St's lord became anxious the very next moment. "What can be the reason of
Bharata's arrival?" Then somebody came and spoke to Him thus: "He has with him no
small army complete in its four limbs (viz., foot, horse, elephants and chariots)." Hearing
this r Rma felt much disturbed. On the one hand there was His father's command,
on the other His regard for His younger brother (Bharata). Realizing Bharata's disposition
in His heart, the Lord found no proposition to fix His mind upon. Then He consoled
Himself with the thought that Bharata was submissive, good and reasonable. Lakmaa
saw that the Lord was troubled at heart, and spoke what prudence demanded on the
occasion: "I make bold, my lord, to say something unasked; but a servant ceases to be
impertinent if his impertinence is not inopportune. You, my master, are the crest-jewel of
the all-wise; yet I, your servant, tell you my own mind. (14)
0r z f fa t fr
tfa atfa f rf r r+ +
Do.: ntha suhda suhi sarala cita sla saneha nidhna,
saba para prti pratti jiya jnia pu samna.227.
"You, my master, are loving by nature and guileless of heart and a storehouse of
amiability and affection. You love and trust everyone and know all to be just like
yourself." (227)
0f; t r; ar; r rf r;+
a tfa a r rr n rr+.{+
a r r r; r r;+
f = art rf r r rt+.+
f r rf r r r+
rf r f fr; r rf rs r;+.-+
f rfa rt f rrfa rf nrt+
af r ; r r n r; r r+.+
Cau.: bia jva pi prabhut, m uRha moha basa hohi

jan.
bharatu nti rata sdhu sujn, prabhu pada premu sakala jagu jn.1.
teu ju rma padu p, cale dharama marajda me.
kuila kubadhu kuavasaru tk, jni rma banabsa ekk.2.
kari kumatru mana sji samju, e karai akaaka rj u.
koi prakra kalapi kuil, e dala baori dou bh.3.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
554
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
jau jiya hoti na kapaa kucl, kehi sohti ratha bji gajl.
bharatahi dosu dei ko je , jaga bauri rja padu pe .4.
"Fools given to the pleasures of sense are seized with infatuation on attaining
power and reveal their true nature. Bharata was righteous, good and wise and his
devotion to the Lord's feet is known to the whole world. But now that he has attained r
Rma's (Your) position (as the ruler of Ayodhy) even he has transgressed the bounds
of righteousness. Finding an adverse situation and knowing that you are alone in the
forest, this wily and wicked brother has plotted an evil design and after making due
preparations has come to make his sovereignty secure. Planning all sorts of wicked
schemes the two brothers have collected an army and marched here. If they had no wily
intention and roguery at heart, who should like to bring chariots, horses and elephants?
But why should one blame Bharata for nothing when we know that anyone in the world
would be driven mad on attaining sovereignty? (14)
0f n fa nrt rr s f r
r a f r r+ c+
Do.: sasi gura tiya gm naghuu caRheu bhumisura jna,
loka beda te bimukha bh adhama na bena samna.228.
"The moon-god committed adultery with the wife of his Guru (the sage Bhaspati),
while Nahua mounted a palanquin borne by Brhmaas; and there was none so vile as
King Vena,* an enemy of established usage as well as of the Vedic injunctions. (228)
0r r fr f r t- +
a t- sfa sr f f r r+.{+
tf- f a r; f r rf r;+
fr ff rs r ft r r t+.+
ar a tfa r f f r+
f t rt r - rt+.-+
fa r r rr a f sr rr+
fn f f r r r r r+.+
Cau.: sahasabhu suranthu trisak u, kehi na rjamada dnha kalak u.
bharata knha yaha ucita upu, ripu rina raca na rkhaba k u.1.
* Vena was born of King Aga (a descendant of the celebrated devotee Dhruva), and Sunth (a
daughter of Mtyu, the god of death). Being thus descended from Adharma (the spirit presiding over
unrighteousness, the father of Mtyu) on the mother's side, Vena was born with vicious propensities and grew
to be the bane of society. Fed up with his atrocities and unable to correct him, King Aga left his capital one
night and retired to an unknown destination. Seeing the kingdom masterless Bhgu and other sages installed
Vena on the throne, even though the ministers were opposed to his installation. Power turned his head all the
more and arrogantly accounting himself as greater than all he began to insult exalted souls. He went the
length of banning the performance of sacrifices and even charity and thus put a stop to all pious acts and the
pursuit of religion.
When the sages perceived that the tyranny of the monarch was overstepping all bounds they felt sorry
for having installed him on the throne. They, therefore, met and decided to expostulate with the king and
persuade him, if possible, to desist from his evil ways. They further resolved to dispose of him in case he did
not come round. The sages approached the king accordingly and admonished him but in vain. This enraged
the sages, who killed him by the very sound of 'Hum'.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
555
eka knhi nahi

bharata bhal, nidare rmu jni asah.

samujhi parihi sou ju bise, samara saroa rma mukhu pekh.2.
etan kahata nti rasa bhul, rana rasa biapu pulaka misa phul.
prabhu pada badi ssa raja rkh, bole satya sahaja balu bh.3.
anucita ntha na mnaba mor, bharata hamahi upacra na thor.
kaha lagi sahia rahia manu mre , ntha stha dhanu htha hamre .4.
"King Sahasrabhu, Indra (the lord of celestials) and King Triaku* (father of
Haricandra)which of these was not brought into disrepute by the intoxication of
kingly power? Bharata has resorted to a right expedient; for one should leave no trace
of one's enemy or debt in any case. But he has made one mistake in that he has
despised r Rma (yourself) as forlorn. And he will realize his mistake with vengeance
today when he beholds r Rma's (your) indignant face on the battlefield." Even as
he said so he forgot his love of propriety and the tree of his bellicose spirit burst into
flowers in the shape of horripilation. Adoring the Lords feet and placing their dust on
his head he spoke, revealing his own real and natural might: Pray do not take offence,
my lord, if I tell you that Bharata has provoked me not a little. After all how long shall
I endure this and restrain my passion when my lord (yourself) is with me and the bow
in my hand? (14)
0fr rfa rr r n n r
ra r fa f t r f r+ +
Do.: chatri jti raghukula janamu rma anuga jagu jna,
ltahu mre caRhati sira nca ko dhuri samna.229.
A Katriya (warrior) by caste and born in the race of Raghu I am known
throughout the world as a servant of r Rma (yourself). (How, then, can I put up with
such insult?) What is so low as the dust (on a road)? But if you were to kick it up it would
rise to your head. (229)
0sf rf r rnr t ra rnr+
rf r f f f rr rf r r rr+.{+
* Triaku, son of Trayyrui, was a king of Ayodhy. He wanted to perform a sacrifice whereby he
could bodily ascend to heaven. His priest Vasiha, however, refused to conduct such a sacrifice, which he
said was unauthorized and futile. Vasiha's sons too declined on the same grounds. But Triaku turned a
deaf ear to their remonstrances. This enraged Vasiha's sons, who cursed him that he should fall in the social
scale and be accounted a pariah. The king was thus converted into a Cla and was accordingly forsaken
by his kinsmen, ministers and subjects too. Much agitated at heart over this, the ex-king now approached the
sage Vivmitra, who comforted him; and asking his sons to invite other sages he conducted the sacrifice.
Vasiha's sons, however, ruled that at a sacrifice commenced by a pariah and conducted by a non-
Brhmaa priest (for such was Vivmitra till then) no gods would appear. The gods respected this ruling and
accordingly no god appeared to accept the offerings. By dint of his own penance Vivmitra sent Triaku to
heaven; but the gods hurled him down. Exasperated at this Vivmitra proceeded to create another heaven
and began to shape new heavenly bodies. The gods were dismayed at this and sought a conference with
Vivmitra. It was ultimately decided by mutual agreement that Vivmitra should abandon his plan to create
a new heaven and Triaku should remain hanging in the air. He is still seen in the form of a triple luminary
in the heavens. The saliva that dropped from his mouth forms the river Karman, which flows between
Vras and Bihar and the water of which is considered as ever polluted.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
556
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
r r af fr +
r fr r; r rs r;+.+
r; r r n s f rf r+
ff f f ; nr ; f r ff r+.-+
af af ar r ff fras ar+
r r = r; a rs r rr;+.+
Cau.: uhi kara jori rajyasu mg, manahu bra rasa sovata jg.
b

dhi ja sira kasi kai bhth, sji sarsanu syaku hth.1.

ju rma sevaka jasu le u

, bharatahi samara sikhvana de u

.
rma nirdara kara phalu p, sovahu samara seja dou bh.2.
i ban bhala sakala samju, pragaa karau risa pchila ju.
jimi kari nikara dalai mgarju, lei lapei lav jimi bj u.3.
taisehi

bharatahi sena samet, snuja nidari niptau khet.

jau sahya kara sakaru , tau mrau rana rma doh.4.
As he rose and with joined palms asked leave (to meet Bharata in an encounter),
it seemed as if the heroic sentiment itself had awoke from sleep. Binding up the matted
locks on his head and fastening the quiver to his waist he strung his bow and took an
arrow in his hand. Let me distinguish myself as a servant of r Rma today and teach
Bharata a lesson in the battle. Reaping the fruit of their contempt for r Rma let the two
brothers sleep on the couch of the battlefield. It is well that the whole host has collected
at one place; I shall, therefore, give vent to my past anger. Even as a lion (the king of
beasts) tears to pieces a herd of elephants or just as a hawk clutches and carries off
a lark, so shall I lightly overthrow on the field Bharata as well as his younger brother
(atrughna) and all their host. Even if Lord akara comes to his aid, I swear by r
Rma that I will kill him in battle. (14)
0fa r r f f r
r rfa ra f nr+ -+
Do.: ati saroa mkhe lakhanu lakhi suni sapatha pravna,
sabhaya loka saba lokapati chata bhabhari bhagna.230.
Seeing Lakmaa speak with such vehemence and fury and hearing his solemn
oath all the spheres trembled with fear, while their rulers were anxious to flee away
in panic. (230)
0n n nn ; rt r f rt+
ara ar rs arrr r f ; r rfrr+.{+
fa sfa r f r fr f r+
r f r fart f a rt+.+
f r r t r r+
t ara ar tfa r; a f r r;+.-+
r a raf a; rf rr f ;+
a tr ff r tr+.+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
557
Cau.: jagu bhaya magana gagana bhai bn, lakhana bhubalu bipula bakhn.
tta pratpa prabhu tumhr, ko kahi sakai ko jnanihr.1.
anucita ucita kju kichu hou, samujhi karia bhala kaha sabu kou.
sahas kari pche pachith

, kahahi

beda budha te budha nh

.2.
suni sura bacana lakhana sakucne, rma sya sdara sanamne.
kah tta tumha nti suh, saba te kahina rjamadu bh.3.
jo acava ta npa mtahi

te, nhina sdhusabh jehi

se.
sunahu lakhana bhala bharata sars, bidhi prapaca maha sun na ds.4.
The world was seized with terror and a voice was heard in the air extolling the
enormous strength of Lakmaas arm: Who can tell, dear child, nay, who even knows
your might and glory? But before doing anything one must judge whether it is right or
wrong; then everyone would approve of it. They who act impulsively and repent
afterwards are anything but wise: so declare the Vedas and the sages. On hearing this
voice from heaven Lakmaa felt abashed; but both r Rma and St addressed him
kindly and politely: What you have said, dear Lakmaa, is sound wisdom; the
intoxication of kingly power is the worst of all. But of those rulers who have tasted it they
alone lose their head who have never waited on an assembly of saints. As for Bharata,
I tell you, Lakmaa, in the whole of Gods creation I have never seen or heard of
anyone so good as he. (14)
0af r; r ff f r;
f rt tf tf fr;+ -{+
Do.: bharatahi hoi na rjamadu bidhi hari hara pada pi,
kabahu ki k

j skarani chrasidhu binasi.231.

Bharata would never be intoxicated with sovereign power even if he attained to
the position of Brahm, Viu or iva. What ! Can a few drops of K j * ever split the
ocean of milk? (231)
0faf= a= aff fn; nn n rrf f;+
nr zf rrrt r = rz rt+.{+
= szr; r; af r;+
arr fa rr f f a rr+.+
n t= n arar f; ; frar+
a f azrnr f t- n r frnr+.-+
nf n af n rt f na tf- sfrt+
a a n t r rf n rrr+.+
Cau.: timiru taruna taranihi maku gila, gaganu magana maku meghahi

mila.
gopada jala buRahi

ghaajon, sahaja cham baru chRai chon.1.

masaka ph u

ka maku meru uR, hoi na npamadu bharatahi bh.

lakhana tumhra sapatha pitu n, suci subadhu nahi

bharata samn.2.
* A sour and savoury drink prepared by dissolving powdered rye seeds into water and preserving it for
a few days.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
558
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
sagunu khru avaguna jalu tt, milai racai parapacu bidht.
bharatu hasa rabibasa taRg, janami knha guna doa bibhg.3.
gahi guna paya taji avaguna br, nija jasa jagata knhi ujir.
kahata bharata guna slu subh u, pema payodhi magana raghur u.4.
Darkness may swallow the midday sun, and sooner may the heavens be
absorbed into a cloud or the jar-born sage Agastya (who is stated to have drunk off the
ocean in a single draught) be drowned in the water collected in a cows footprint: nay the
earth may abandon its natural forbearance and Mount Meru be blown away by a puff of
wind discharged from the mouth of a mosquito; but Bharata will never be intoxicated by
kingly power, O brother. Lakmaa, I swear by you as well as by our father that there
is no brother so good and innocent as Bharata. God, dear brother, creates the world by
mixing the milk of goodness with the water of evil; while Bharata is a swan, born in the
lake of the solar race, that has sifted goodness from evil. Choosing the milk of goodness
and discarding the water of evil he has illumined the world by his glory. Even as the Lord
of Raghus extolled Bharatas virtues, amiability and noble disposition He was drowned
in an ocean of love. (14)
0f rr rt f f a a
ra r r r rfa+ -+
Do.: suni raghubara bn bibudha dekhi bharata para hetu,
sakala sarhata rma so prabhu ko kpniketu.232.
On hearing the speech of r Rma (the chief of Raghus line) and seeing His
affection for Bharata all the gods were full of applause and said, Can you name such
a gracious lord as r Rma? (232)
0 ra n a r f a r+
f n a n nrr r r; ar f rrrr+.{+
r f f rt fa s r; rt+
;r a fa r rft ta r+.+
fa t rf rnr rfn ra n f frnr+
a f rrr; r frr rr r;+.-+
fr ra a rt a a rf rt+
r f f r sf f a rf af r+.+
Cau.: jau na hota jaga janama bharata ko, sakala dharama dhura dharani dharatako.
kabi kula agama bharata guna gth, ko jnai tumha binu raghunth.1.
lakhana rma siya suni sura bn, ati sukhu laheu na ji bakhn.
ih

bharatu saba sahita sahe, madkin

punta nahe.2.
sarita sampa rkhi saba log, mgi mtu gura saciva niyog.
cale bharatu jaha siya raghur, stha nidanthu laghu bh.3.
samujhi mtu karataba sakuch

, karata kutaraka koi mana mh

.
rmu lakhanu siya suni mama nu

, uhi jani anata jhi

taji h u

.4.
Had Bharata not been born into the world, who on this earth would have
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
559
championed the cause of virtue in its entirety? Who else than you, O Lord of Raghus,
can know Bharatas good qualities, which are unaproachable even to the race of bards?
On hearing the words of the gods, Lakmaa, r Rma and St were more delighted
than words can tell. There Bharata with all his host bathed in the sacred Mandkin.
Then, leaving all the people on the riverside and taking permission of his mothers,
preceptor (the sage Vasiha) and the minister (Sumantra) he proceeded to the spot
where St and r Rma were, taking the Nida chief and his younger brother
(atrughna) with him. As he thought of what his mother had done, he felt diffident and
formed ill-conjectures of every kind in his mind: God forbid that r Rma, Lakmaa
and St leave the place on hearing my name and shift to some other place! (14)
0ra a rf rf r f r r
rr n f rf fr rt r+ --+
Do.: mtu mate mahu mni mohi jo kachu karahi

so thora,
agha avaguna chami darahi

samujhi pan ora.233.

Taking me to be an accomplice of my mother, nothing that he might do would be
too much. But looking to his own self, I am sure, he will forgive my faults and receive
me kindly. (233)
0 ff f rt rf rt+
r rf t t r trf r t+.{+
n r ra tr f f tr+
na n rar ff nrar+.+
fa ra a rt a nfa t rt+
ra rrr r a a sar; r+.-+
a r af t r f nfa t+
f a r r fr af f+.+
Cau.: jau pariharahi

malina manu jn, jau sanamnahi

sevaku mn.
more sarana rmahi k panah, rma susvmi dosu saba janah.1.
jaga jasa bhjana ctaka mn, nema pema nija nipuna nabn.
asa mana gunata cale maga jt, sakuca saneha sithila saba gt.2.
pherati manahu mtu kta khor, calata bhagati bala dhraja dhor.
jaba samujhata raghuntha subh u, taba patha parata utila p u.3.
bharata das tehi avasara kais, jala prabha jala ali gati jais.
dekhi bharata kara socu saneh u, bh nida tehi samaya bideh u.4.
"Whether He shuns me as one possessing a black heart or welcomes me as his
own servant, my only refuge are r Rmas 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 Ctaka 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
(Kaikey) 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 r Rmas
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
560
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
good nature his feet moved quickly along the way. Bharatas gait at that time resembled
the movements of a water-fly carried along a stream. Seeing Bharatas anxiety and
affection at that moment the Nida chief forgot all about himself. (14)
0n r n n f nf a fr
fff r r;f f fr fr+ -+
Do.: lage hona magala saguna suni guni kahata nidu,
miihi socu hoihi harau puni parinma bidu.234.
Auspicious omens occurred and the Nida chief after hearing of and reflecting on
them said, Anxiety will pass away giving place to delight; but in the end there will be
sorrow. (234)
0 - r r>r f r; fr+
a t r fa fa r; r +.{+
;fa tfa r rt frf ar tfza n rt+
r; r rt rf a nfa af rt+.+
r r fa rr t r r; rr+
f frn f ff r r +.-+
f rt rfa fa f rt+
n r r r rf>ra fa r+.+
Cau.: sevaka bacana satya saba jne, rama nikaa ji niarne.
bharata dkha bana saila samju, mudita chudhita janu pi sunj u.1.
ti bhti janu praj dukhr, tribidha tpa pRita graha mr.
ji surja sudesa sukhr, hohi

bharata gati tehi anuhr.2.

rma bsa bana sapati bhrj, sukh praj janu pi surj.
saciva birgu bibeku nares u, bipina suhvana pvana desu.3.
bhaa jama niyama saila rajadhn, sti sumati suci sudara rn.
sakala aga sapanna sur u, rma carana rita cita c u.4.
Bharata knew every word of his servant (Guha) to be true; and proceeding
further he drew near to the hermitage. When he saw the forest and the mountain range,
he was as glad as a hungry man on getting excellent food. Just as a people tormented
by the fear of calamities* and afflicted by threefold troubles as well as by the influence
of evil stars and by pestilence feel happy on migrating to a well-governed and
prosperous country, Bharata too had similar feelings. The natural wealth of the forest
grew while r Rma lived there, even as the people rejoice on securing a good king. The
charming forest was the sacred realm referred to here; Discretion was the king (who
ruled over it), while Dispassion was his counsellor. Likewise the five Yamas and the
* Public calamities or visitations of God (tis as they are technically called) are reckoned as six in
number, viz., excessive rain, drought, rats, locusts, parrots and invasion by some neighbouring king.
fafyrfyr rr rr -rrrn rr zar ;a tar+
The five forms of self-restraint or Yamas as they are called in Yoga Philosophy are: Ahis (non-
violence in thought, word and deed), Satya (truthfulness), Brahmacarya (abstinence from sexual indulgence
in every form), Aparigraha (depriving oneself of all possessions) and Asteya (non-stealing).
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
561
five Niyamas* constituted the champions of the realm, Mount Citrak ua stood for its
capital, while Peace and Good Understanding represented the virtuous and lovely
queens. In this way the good king was complete in all the limbs of a good state; and
depending as he did on r Rmas feet his heart was full of zeal. (14)
0tfa r fr fa f r
a r r r+ -~+
Do.: jti moha mahiplu dala sahita bibeka bhulu,
karata akaaka rju pura sukha sapad suklu.235.
Having conquered King Delusion with all his host King Discretion held undisputed
sway in his capital; and joy, prosperity and plenty reigned everywhere. (235)
0 f r rr n nrs n +
f ffr fn n rr r r r; rr+.{+
nr f f rrr rr f f r rr+
= fr; f nr a anr+.+
rr rf -r n nrf fr fff ff rf+
r ra f n a r fa +.-+
fn nra ra rr r n rr+
f f a r r n r+.+
Cau.: bana pradesa muni bsa ghanere, janu pura nagara gu gana khere.
bipula bicitra bihaga mga nn, praj samju na ji bakhn.1.
khagah kari hari bgha barh, dekhi mahia ba sju sarh.
bayaru bihi carahi

eka sag, jaha taha manahu sena caturag.2.
jharan jharahi

matta gaja gjahi

,
manahu nisna bibidhi bidhi bjahi

.
caka cakora ctaka suka pika gana, k ujata maju marla mudita mana.3.
aligana gvata ncata mor, janu surja magala cahu or.
beli biapa tna saphala saph ul, saba samju muda magala m ul.4.
The numerous hermits habitations in the forest region were like so many towns cities,
villages and hamlets (comprising the kings dominion). The many birds of various colours
and the beasts of different varieties constituted his countless subjects. The hares, elephants,
lions, tigers, boars, buffaloes and bulls presented a sight which attracted admiration.
Shedding their natural animosities they roamed about together like an army complete in all
its four limbs. Rills of water flowed and mad elephants trumpeted; their noise resembled the
beating of kettledrums of various kinds. cakravkas, Cakoras, Ctakas, parrots and
cuckcos and swans made delightful and merry concert. Swarms of bees hummed and
peacocks danced, which showed as it were that there was universal rejoicing in that
prosperous kingdom. Creepers, trees and blades of grass alike were blossoming and
bore fruit; the entire community thus wore a festive and delightful appearance. (14)
* The five Niyamas or religious observances are: auca (external and internal purity), Santoa
(contentment), Tapas (religious austerity). Swdhyya (study and recitation of the Vedas and muttering or the
chanting of the Divine Name) and Iwara-Praidhna (self-surrender to and meditation on God).
Every good state must have the following seven limbs :a sovereign, a minister, allies, a treasury,
a principality or dominion, a fortress and an army.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
562
*
R RMACARITAMNASA
*
0r rr ff a z fa
ar a r; ff t fr + -+
Do.: rma saila sobh nirakhi bharata hdaya ati pemu,
tpasa tapa phalu pi jimi sukh sirne nemu.236.
Beholding the beauty of r Rmas hill (Citrakua) Bharatas heart overflowed with
love even as an ascetic who has reaped the fruit of his penance rejoices on the
completion of his vow. (236)
[PAUSE 20 FOR A THIRTY-DAY RECITATION]
[PAUSE 5 FOR A NINE-DAY RECITATION]
0a f r; s a r sr; +
r ff f frr rf r arr+.{+
f- a=- rr fr f rr+
t rr rr f r rr+.+
r faf = rt ft ff f r t+
a= fa t nrr; rr t r;+.-+
at a= ff r f nr+
rr fr r; f f rf r r;+.+
Cau.: taba kevaa u

ce caRhi dh, kaheu bharata sana bhuj uh.

ntha dekhiahi

biapa bisl, pkari jabu rasla taml.1.

jinha tarubaranha madhya bau soh, maju bisla dekhi manu moh.
nla saghana pallava phala ll, abirala chha sukhada saba kl.2.
mnahu timira arunamaya rs, birac bidhi sa keli suam s.
e taru sarita sampa gos

, raghubara paranaku jaha ch.3.

tulas tarubara bibidha suhe, kahu kahu siya kahu lakhana lage.
baa chy

bedik ban, siya nija pni saroja suh.4.

In the meantime the Nida chief ran and climbed up an eminence, and lifting his
arm, exclaimed to Bharata; My lord, look at those huge and noble trees of Pkara (the
citron-leaved Indian fig tree), Jambu (the black plum), Mango and Tamla, in the midst
of which stands out a beautiful and stately banyan, which is so charming to behold with
its dark and dense foliage, red fruit and unbroken shade, which is pleasant throughout
the year, as if God had brought together all that was exquisitely beautiful and given it
the shape of a dark and rosy mass. The trees in question, my lord, stand close to the
riverside where the Chief of Raghus has erected His hut of leaves. In front of it you
will find a variety of charming basil shrubs planted here by St and there by
Lakmaa. And in the shade of the banyan tree there is a lovely altar raised by St
with Her own lotus hands (14)
0r f fn fa fa f r r
f r ;far rn fn r+ -+
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
*
AYODHY-K NA
*
563
Do.: jah

baihi munigana sahita nita siya rmu sujna,

sunahi

kath itihsa saba gama nigama purna.237.

Seated whereon the all-wise St and Rma listen everyday, in the midst of a
crowd of hermits, to all kinds of stories and legends from the gamas (Tantras), Vedas
and Puras. (237)
0r f f frt sn a fr rt+
a r rs r; a tfa r r;+.{+
f ff r r r r rs r+
f f f f- rf rr f f rf+.+
f a nfa atr n n n z tr+
f f n r f f r+.-+
ff fq r rn r rn+
ra a rs a r a r+.+
Cau.: sakh bacana suni biapa nihr, umage bharata bilocana br.
karata pranma cale dou bh, kahata prti srada sakuc.1.
haraahi

nirakhi rma pada ak, mnahu prasu pyau rak.

raja sira dhari hiya nayananhi lvahi
,
raghubara milana sarisa sukha pvahi

.2.
dekhi bharata gati akatha atv, prema magana mga khaga jaRa jv.
sakhahi saneha bibasa maga bhul, kahi supatha sura baraahi

ph ul.3.
nirakhi siddha sdhaka anurge, sahaja sanehu sarhana lge.
hota na bhutala bhu bharata ko, acara sacara cara acara karata ko.4.
The moment Bharata heard the words of his friend (Guha) and saw the trees
tears rushed to his eyes. The two brothers (Bharata and atrughna) made obeisance
as they proceeded; even rad (the goddess of speech) felt diffident in describing
their love (for r Rma). They were as delighted to behold r Rmas footprints as
a pauper who had stumbled on a philosophers stone. Placing the dust on their head
and heart they applied it to their eyes and experienced the same degree of joy as they
would on seeing the Chief of Raghus Himself. Perceiving Bharatas condition, which
was altogether beyond description, beasts and birds and even inanimate creatures
(such as trees etc.,) were overwhelmed with emotion. Overpowered by love Bharatas
friend (Guha) lost his way; but the gods showed it to him and rained flowers. God-
realized saints as well as striving souls were filled with love at his very sight and began
to praise his natural affection. If Bharata had not been born on this globe (or if the earth
had not witnessed his love) it would not have been possible to turn inanimate into
animate and animate into inanimate beings. (14)
0 f = f a rf nt
f ns r fa rf rrt+ -c+
Do.: pema amia madaru birahu bharatu payodhi ga bhra,
mathi pragaeu sura sdhu hita kpsidhu raghubra.238.