In the quiet of the forest, Rama perceived the depth of his brother Bharata’s readiness to rule, moulded by wisdom and responsibility. Though shrouded in grief, Bharata’s earnest appeal pierced through the solemnity of their conversation. Rama, attuned to Bharata’s heart, sought to restore balance through measured words and gestures, guiding him toward clarity.
As Bharata wept, Rama gently asked, “Why do you appear before me clad in linen and deerskin? What purpose has drawn you from Ayodhya into this wilderness in the robes of an ascetic?”
Folding his hands, Bharata responded, his voice trembling with sorrow: “Great and noble brother, our revered father, the mighty King Dasaratha, has ascended to the heavens, stricken by the anguish of sending you to exile for a boon granted to my mother, Kaikeyi. His virtues were spent in fulfilling this grievous promise, and now my mother left bereft, is consumed by sorrow. I beseech you, show mercy on this humble servant. Return to Ayodhya, reclaim the throne, and restore joy to the hearts of our people.
“Our subjects, our mothers, and all who revere you implore your return. Respect our lineage, the honor of our forefathers, and the expectations of our kingdom. Ayodhya will shine like the full moon in your rule. Ministers, sages, and I, your loyal servant, kneel before you, pleading for your kindness. Uphold the sacred order of our dynasty. Let not this appeal fall unanswered.”
Overcome with emotion, Bharata bowed at Rama’s feet, resting his head in reverence. Rama raised him tenderly, sighing like a mighty elephant burdened by the weight of destiny.
“O Bharata,” Rama began, his voice calm yet firm, “you are the very embodiment of virtue and honour, a soul untainted and true. I harbour no doubts about your intentions or your character. Yet, I must restrain you from condemning our mother, Kaikeyi, in a moment of anger. She acted within the bounds of dharma, and it is not ours to question the will of our father, King Dasaratha.
“Our father held supreme authority, as is the way of our ancestors, to command and direct the paths of his children. His decision to send me to the forest in ascetic robes was his to make, and I have embraced it as my duty. You, Bharata, have been raised amidst the grand traditions of our lineage and taught by sages of profound wisdom. It is now your responsibility to uphold the honour of our house.
“Guide Ayodhya to greater glory. Serve our people with righteousness and compassion. As for me, I am bound by our father’s word and will fulfill my vow of exile for fourteen years. This is the path dharma has laid before me, and I shall not deviate from it.”
Bharata, overcome with despair, pleaded again. “Brother, how can I bear the shame of violating the sacred tradition of our dynasty by ruling in your stead? The people will judge me as a usurper, unworthy of the throne. The weight of ridicule and dishonour is unbearable. I implore you, return to Ayodhya and reclaim the throne. A king is not merely a mortal ruler but a manifestation of divine will, guided by the unseen forces of Indra, Varuna, Brihaspati, and Agni. Only you are worthy of such a divine trust.”
With tears streaming, Bharata continued, “While I was in Kekaya, you were in the forest, enduring trials with Sita and Lakshmana. During this time, our father, overcome by grief, departed from this world, longing for your presence. Even in his final moments, he spoke your name, Rama, again and again, yearning for one last glimpse of you.
“Now, fulfill your sacred duty as his beloved son. Perform the water ritual and last rites, bringing peace to his soul. Satrughna and I have done our part, but only you can offer him the satisfaction he seeks in the afterlife. By your act of devotion, our father will rejoice in the heavens, knowing his cherished son has honoured his memory.”
Moved by Bharata’s words, Rama gazed upon his brother with deep compassion, his thoughts resonating with the eternal truths of dharma and destiny. “The roles we play in life,” Rama said, “are but threads in the grand design of the cosmos, woven with simplicity and beauty. Each moment, each decision reflects the impartial will of fate, yet it is through our choices that the splendour of our character shines. Let us, then, walk this path with faith and integrity, honouring the divine plan that governs us all.”
