Bharata's Return to Ayodhya (Ramayana Series 42)

Bharata's Return to Ayodhya

The royal messengers of Ayodhya travelled a great distance and finally reached Rajagriha, the capital of the Kekaya Kingdom. Upon entering the palace, they were warmly received by Prince Yudhajit, the son of the Kekaya king. After being duly honored, the messengers approached Bharata, bowed at his feet, and conveyed their message:

“Prince, the royal priests and ministers inquire about your well-being. An important duty awaits you, one that cannot be delayed. Therefore, you must leave at once for Ayodhya. Please accept these priceless garments and ornaments brought from Ayodhya and present them as gifts to your grandfather and maternal uncle. These treasures are of immense value, with a significant portion intended for your maternal grandfather and the rest for your uncle.”

Hearing this, Bharata, who held deep affection for his family, graciously accepted the gifts. He offered the precious ornaments and garments to his grandfather and maternal uncle and respectfully honored the royal messengers. Then he eagerly inquired:

“Are my father, King Dasharatha, and my noble brothers Rama and Lakshmana in good health? Is my revered elder mother Kausalya, who is devoted to righteousness and always sees goodness in others, well? Is Sumitra, the wise and virtuous mother of Lakshmana and Shatrughna, in good health? And how is my mother Kaikeyi? Has she sent any message for me?”

The messengers, careful not to reveal the tragic events that had occurred in Ayodhya, replied courteously, “Prince, all those whose welfare you have asked about are well. Fortune awaits you. Your chariot is ready, and you should begin your journey without delay.”

Bharata agreed and said, “Very well. I shall seek my grandfather’s permission and depart immediately, since the messengers from Ayodhya urge haste.”

He then approached his maternal grandfather and respectfully said, “Grandfather, these royal messengers from Ayodhya request that I return at once. Therefore, I shall leave to visit my father. Whenever you think of me, I shall gladly come again.”

The King of Kekaya affectionately embraced Bharata and blessed him. “Go, my child,” he said. “You have my permission. Kaikeyi is truly blessed to have a son like you. Convey my greetings and good wishes to your father and mothers.”

With Shatrughna by his side and accompanied by a grand army, Bharata departed from Rajagriha and journeyed eastward toward Ayodhya.

As they approached the city, Bharata began to notice many ominous signs. The streets appeared deserted, the marketplaces were silent, and the once-bustling avenues seemed lifeless. The city that had once shone with the splendor of Amaravati, the celestial capital of Indra, now appeared sorrowful and neglected.

The unusual silence and gloom filled Bharata’s heart with anxiety. Everywhere he looked, he saw signs of misfortune that he had never witnessed before. Instead of feeling joy at returning to his beloved homeland, he was overwhelmed by an unexplainable sadness.

Deeply troubled, Bharata lowered his head and silently entered the royal palace of Ayodhya, unaware of the heartbreaking tragedy that awaited him within.