Passage 1
ब्रह्मोवाच— ततस्तामिङ्गुदीमूलं सोऽन्वगाद् भरतः शुचिः। यत्र भ्राता शयितवान् भूमौ दयितया सह॥१॥
Brahmā said: Pure-hearted Bharata then went to the foot of that iṅgudī tree, where his brother had slept upon the ground with his beloved.
Passage 2
तत्र शय्यां समुद्वीक्ष्य क्रान्तपूर्वां महात्मना। संस्तृतां तृणसंघेन मर्दितां परिवर्त्तनैः॥२॥
There he gazed upon the bed once occupied by the great soul, spread with a mass of grass and crushed where the sleepers had turned.
Passage 3
अपश्यत् पल्लवांस्तत्र परिम्लानांश्चिरास्तृतान्। श्रीरामस्याङ्गसंसक्तान् जानकीतनुसौरभान्॥३॥
He saw the long-spread leaves lying there, now withered, which had touched Śrī Rāma’s limbs and retained the fragrance of Jānakī’s body.
Passage 4
बभूव बाष्पनयनो भरतो भ्रातृवत्सलः। कौसल्यादयः जनन्यश्च स्थानं तद्ददृशुर्दृशा॥४॥
Bharata, tenderly devoted to his brother, filled with tears. Kauśalyā and the other mothers also beheld that place with their own eyes.
Passage 5
विललाप पुरस्तासां स दीनः शोकसंवृतः। महाराजकुमारस्य मन्वानोऽनुचितां दशाम्॥५॥
Before them he lamented miserably, overcome by grief as he reflected upon the unworthy condition endured by the great king’s son.
Passage 6
सीतां च जनकेन्द्रस्य सुतां दशरथस्य च। स्नुषां राज्यसुखस्यार्हां सोऽनुचद् बाष्पलोचनः॥६॥
With tearful eyes he grieved for Sītā—the daughter of King Janaka and daughter-in-law of Daśaratha—who deserved the comforts of royalty.
Passage 7
स्वयं चोषितुकामोऽसौ भ्रातुः प्रतिनिधिर्भवन्। राज्येऽभिषिच्य चैवार्यमानेतुं कृतनिश्चयः॥७॥
He resolved to bring his noble brother back and consecrate him to the kingdom, while himself remaining in the forest as his brother’s substitute.
Passage 8
वाग्भिराश्वासयाञ्चक्रे कौसल्यां शोकपीडिताम्। इङ्गुदीतरुमूलस्थां शय्यामार्यस्य वीक्ष्य ताम्॥८॥
After seeing his noble brother’s bed beneath the iṅgudī tree, he consoled the grief-stricken Kauśalyā with reassuring words.
Passage 9
बभूवातितरां तत्र भरतः शोककर्षितः। प्रतिजज्ञौ वने स्थातुमार्यं राज्येऽभिषेचितुम्॥९॥
There Bharata became still more emaciated by grief and vowed that he would remain in the forest while his noble brother was consecrated as king.
Passage 10
देवताः प्रार्थयामास तथाभवितुमुत्सुकः। यदि मे प्रार्थितं सम्यगार्यो नाङ्गीकरिष्यति॥१०॥
Eager for this to come to pass, he prayed to the gods: “If my noble brother does not fully accept my plea,
Passage 11
तदा तत्पादसविधे निवत्स्याम्यहमाहृतः। एवमाह महाबाहुर्भरतः सत्यभाषणः॥११॥
“then I shall remain near his feet, bound to that resolve.” Thus spoke truthful, mighty-armed Bharata. The Company Crosses the Gaṅgā
Passage 12
ततश्च निशि जातायां प्राप्तनीडेषु पक्षिषु। प्रभोर्भ्रातरमामन्त्र्य ययौ वेश्म निषादराट्॥१२॥
When night came and the birds had reached their nests, the Niṣāda king took leave of his lord’s brother and returned home.
Passage 13
अथ प्रातः समुत्थाय भरतश्चैव शत्रुहा। तारयामासतुः सेनां गुहमाज्ञाप्य नौशतैः॥१३॥
At dawn Bharata and Śatrughna arose and, instructing Guha, began ferrying the army across in hundreds of boats.
Passage 14
शतानि पञ्च गङ्गायां तरण्यः समुपस्थिताः। आकृष्यमाणाः परितो दाशै राज्ञानुवर्तिभिः॥१४॥
Five hundred boats assembled upon the Gaṅgā, drawn from every side by boatmen obedient to their king.
Passage 15
नानावर्णाः पताकिन्यो विचित्रस्वस्तिकाञ्चिताः। वितानास्तरणोपेता घण्टाभरणभूषिताः॥१५॥
They were many-colored, flew banners, bore varied auspicious emblems, and were furnished with canopies, coverings, bells, ornaments, and decorations.
Passage 16
द्रोणीभिः क्षेपणीभिश्च शोभमाना जवप्लवाः। वेश्मवातायनोपेता व्यभ्रजन् जाह्नवीजले॥१६॥
The swift vessels shone with trough-shaped boats and lighter craft; some were fitted like houses with windows and glittered upon Jāhnavī’s waters.
Passage 17
पुरः परमकल्याणीमानन्दरवघोषिणीम्। उह्यमानां गुहेनैव भरतो नावमारुहत्॥१७॥
At the head, Bharata boarded a supremely auspicious boat that resounded with joyful cries and was guided by Guha himself.
Passage 18
भरतस्य समीपस्थः शत्रुघ्नः शुशुभेतराम्। साक्षाच्चन्द्रसमीपस्थो द्वितीय इव चन्द्रमाः॥१८॥
Standing beside Bharata, Śatrughna shone exceedingly, like a second moon beside the moon itself.
Passage 19
आरुह्य रम्यतरणीः संतेरू राजयोषितः। कौसल्याद्याः पटच्छन्नवेश्मान्तरसुसंस्थिताः॥१९॥
Kauśalyā and the other royal women crossed in beautiful boats, comfortably seated inside cabins screened with cloth.
Passage 20
पुरोधसो मुनिश्रेष्ठा मन्त्रिणश्च द्विजातयः। पृथङ्नावः समारुह्य व्यतरन् स्वर्गनिम्नगाम्॥२०॥
The family priests, foremost sages, ministers, and twice-born men boarded separate boats and crossed the river descending from heaven.
Passage 21
राजदामास्ततस्तेरुरश्वयानसमन्विताः। नैगमाश्चापणैः साकमनोभिर्भारवाहकैः॥२१॥
Then the royal attendants crossed with horse-drawn conveyances, while the merchants crossed with their wares, carts, and beasts of burden.
Passage 22
तरतां चैव तीर्णानां तथा चैव तरिष्यताम्। नृणां सम्भारयुक्तानां मिथः कोलाहलोऽभवत्॥२२॥
A great mutual clamor arose among the provision-laden people who were crossing, had crossed, or were still waiting to cross.
Passage 23
स्त्रीगणै राजदासीभिर्दासैर्दासेरकैर्गजैः। वाजिभिर्युज्ययानैश्च तरण्यः सर्वतो भृताः॥२३॥
The boats were filled on every side with groups of women, royal maidservants, male servants, pack animals, elephants, horses, and harnessed vehicles.
Passage 24
नानाभाण्डान्विता नावो नानाजनसमाकुलाः। दाशैः संतार्यमाणास्ताः पारं जग्मुर्महाजवाः॥२४॥
Loaded with many kinds of goods and crowded with all sorts of people, the swift boats were guided by the boatmen and reached the farther shore.
Passage 25
विचित्रकम्बलास्तत्र विचित्रध्वजशालिनः। पर्वता इव दृश्यन्ते विचित्रशिखरा गजाः॥२५॥
The elephants, covered with varied blankets and bearing colorful standards, looked like mountains with many-hued peaks.
Passage 26
नौकाभिश्च महानौभिः प्लवैश्च सकला चमूः। सयानापणलोकोघा संततार नदीं क्षणात्॥२६॥
By boats, great ships, and rafts, the entire army—with its vehicles, market folk, and multitudes—crossed the river in a short time.
Passage 27
ततः सर्वान् समुत्तार्य ज्ञातिभिः सहितो गुहः। भरतस्य पुरः सम्यक् प्राञ्जलिः समुपस्थितः॥२७॥
After ferrying everyone across, Guha came with his kinsmen and stood properly before Bharata with joined palms. Guha Directs Bharata to Prayāga
Passage 28
तमपृच्छत पन्थानं तस्य देशस्य राघवः। यस्मिन् देशे वसत्यार्यः सानुजो भार्यया सह॥२८॥
The descendant of Raghu asked him the road to the country where his noble brother lived with his wife and younger brother.
Passage 29
तमुवाच निषादेशः प्रयागे गम्यतां त्वया। पुण्यं तपोवनं यत्र भारद्वाजस्य धीमतः॥२९॥
The lord of the Niṣādas replied, “Go to Prayāga, where the sacred hermitage of wise Bharadvāja stands.
Passage 30
गङ्गया यमुना यत्र संगता दीर्घघोषया। अन्तस्तयोः सरस्वत्या शोणभासा समागतम्॥३०॥
“There the Gaṅgā meets the long-resounding Yamunā, and between them the radiant Sarasvatī joins the confluence.
Passage 31
निमज्ज्य यत्र मनुजा व्रजन्ति विरजं पदम्। तत्र स्नात्वा मुनिश्रेष्ठं नत्वाऽऽतिथ्यं प्रगृह्य च॥३१॥
“People who immerse themselves there attain the stainless state. Bathe there, bow to the foremost sage, and accept his hospitality.
Passage 32
समेधितस्तदा श्रीभिर्मुनिः स भाग्यमण्डितः। तन्निदिष्टेन मार्गेण भ्रातरं द्रष्टुमेष्यसि॥३२॥
“That fortunate sage is endowed with abundant spiritual splendor. Following the road he indicates, you will go to see your brother.”
Passage 33
इत्याकर्ण्य गुहेनोक्तं प्रसन्नहृदयोऽभवत्। तं विसृज्य ततोऽगच्छत्प्रयागं सह सेनया॥३३॥
Hearing Guha’s words, Bharata’s heart became serene. He dismissed Guha and then proceeded to Prayāga with the army.
Passage 34
मध्ये मार्गं महारण्यतरुकोटरवासिनाम्। पक्षिणां निनदं शृण्वन् भारद्वाजाश्रमोन्मुखः॥३४॥
Heading toward Bharadvāja’s hermitage, he traveled through the great forest, hearing the calls of birds dwelling in tree hollows along the way.
Passage 35
फलितान् पुष्पितांश्चैव नवपल्लवभूषितान्। गुञ्जद्भ्रमरपुञ्जाढ्यान् सम्पश्यन् वनपादपान्॥३५॥
He beheld forest trees heavy with fruit and flowers, adorned with fresh leaves, and filled with swarms of humming bees. The Sacred Confluence
Passage 36
ददर्श पुरतो रम्यं प्रयागस्थानमुत्तमम्। इतो भागीरथी गङ्गा परतो यमुना तयोः॥३६॥
Ahead he saw the beautiful and supreme sanctuary of Prayāga, with the Bhāgīrathī Gaṅgā on one side and the Yamunā on the other.
Passage 37
मध्ये नानामरैर्जुष्टमृषिवृन्दैः समाकुलम्। नानादेवद्रुमाकीर्णं कल्पवृक्षशतावृतम्॥३७॥
The land between them was frequented by many gods, crowded with companies of sages, filled with divine trees of many kinds, and surrounded by hundreds of wish-fulfilling trees.
Passage 38
कमलाकरसंशोभि शोभितं सरसीगणैः। कोटितीर्थसमाक्रान्तं देवतायतनान्वितम्॥३८॥
It shone with lotus pools and hosts of lakes, was pervaded by millions of holy fords, and held many sanctuaries of the gods.
Passage 39
सर्वकालफलोपेतैः पादपैः परिशोभितम्। दृष्ट्वा वनं महद्रम्यं सर्वे ते प्रीतमानसाः॥३९॥
Seeing the great and delightful forest beautified by trees bearing fruit in every season, they all became joyful at heart.
Passage 40
देवं प्रदक्षिणं कृत्वा प्रययुर्भरतादयः। भरतश्चैव शत्रुघ्नो वसिष्ठोऽन्ये द्विजातयः॥४०॥
After circumambulating the deity, Bharata and the others proceeded onward: Bharata, Śatrughna, Vasiṣṭha, and the other twice-born men.
Passage 41
कौसल्याद्या मातरश्च देवतायतनं महत्। कृत्वा प्रदक्षिणं प्राप्ता महातीर्थमवगाह्य च॥४१॥
Kauśalyā and the other mothers circumambulated the great divine sanctuary and arrived after immersing themselves in the great tīrtha. Bharata Enters Bharadvāja’s Hermitage
Passage 42
श्रद्धोपेताः प्रविविशुर्मुनेराश्रममण्डलम्। भरतः क्रोशतो हित्वा पद्भ्यामेव प्रतस्थिवान्॥४२॥
Filled with faith, they entered the precinct of the sage’s hermitage. Bharata left his forces a krośa away and continued on foot.
Passage 43
तदाश्रमं महत्पुण्यं भारद्वाजस्य योगिनः। प्रययौ भरतः श्रीमान् संनिवेश्य बलं पृथक्॥४३॥
Having stationed the army apart, glorious Bharata approached the greatly holy hermitage of the yogin Bharadvāja.
Passage 44
वसिष्ठसहितोऽन्यैश्च द्विजवर्यैः समन्वितः। मन्त्रिभिः सहितः शुद्धः स्फीतवासाः सुभाषितः॥४४॥
Pure in conduct and gracious in speech, he came with Vasiṣṭha, other eminent twice-born men, and his ministers, dressed in dignified garments.
Passage 45
प्रविश्याश्रममद्राक्षीन्मुनिं वह्निसमत्विषम्। भरद्वाजं सुतपसं विख्यातब्रह्मवर्चसम्॥४५॥
Entering the hermitage, he saw Bharadvāja, the deeply austere sage whose renowned spiritual radiance was equal to fire.
Passage 46
स विलोक्य मुनिश्रेष्ठं प्राजापत्यं महौजसम्। वसिष्ठं ब्रह्मविद्वर्यं रघूणां च पुरोधसम्॥४६॥
The mighty descendant of Prajāpati beheld Vasiṣṭha, foremost knower of Brahman and family priest of the Raghus.
Passage 47
त्यक्तासनः समुत्तस्थौ पाद्यहस्तो महामुनिः। यथार्हं तेन संगम्य सत्कृत्य च तमादरात्॥४७॥
The great sage left his seat and rose with water for washing the feet. He met Vasiṣṭha according to his rank and honored him respectfully.
Passage 48
शत्रुघ्नभरताभ्यां च भक्त्या समभिवादितः। यथापूर्वं यथान्यायं सर्वानानर्च सोऽतिथीन्॥४८॥
Śatrughna and Bharata bowed to him devotedly, and he honored every guest in the proper order and according to established custom.
Passage 49
सर्वेष्वङ्गेषु कुशलं पप्रच्छ वदतां वरः। ज्ञात्वा प्रमीतं राजानं शुशोच क्षणमातुरः॥४९॥
The eloquent sage asked after their welfare in every respect. Learning that the king had died, he grieved painfully for a moment.
Passage 50
वसिष्ठो भरतश्चैव तं च पप्रच्छतुः शुभम्। देहाग्निहोत्रशिष्याप्ताश्रमसत्पशुपक्षिषु॥५०॥
Vasiṣṭha and Bharata in turn asked about his bodily welfare, sacred fires, disciples, kinsmen, hermitage, and its good animals and birds.
Passage 51
एवं परस्परं तेषां सम्प्रश्नोऽभून्मनोहरः। ततोऽब्रवीद् भरद्वाजो भरतं प्रश्नयानतम्॥५१॥
Their gracious mutual inquiries proceeded in this way. Bharadvāja then spoke to Bharata, who was humbly awaiting his questions. Bharadvāja Tests Bharata’s Purpose
Passage 52
ब्रूहि स्वागमनस्यार्थं वने राज्यवतस्तव। पूर्वं प्रव्राजितो रामस्तव पित्रा वनं प्रति॥५२॥
“Tell me the purpose of your coming to the forest while possessing the kingdom. Your father previously sent Rāma away to the forest,
Passage 53
स्त्रियाः प्रसादनं कर्तुं धर्मात्मा सत्यसंगरः। त्वमिदानीं च किं कर्तुं प्रस्थितोऽसि बलान्वितः॥५३॥
“the righteous keeper of truth doing so to satisfy his wife. What do you now intend, setting out with an army?
Passage 54
कच्चिन्न राज्यलोभेन त्यक्तस्नेहो वनेऽपि तम्। उद्वेजयितुमुद्युक्तो भवान् कारुण्यवर्जितः॥५४॥
“Surely you have not abandoned affection through greed for the kingdom and come, devoid of compassion, to trouble him even in the forest?
Passage 55
एवं चेदत्यनुचितं कर्तुमध्यवसानसि। काकुत्स्थानां कीर्तिहरं महत्पापमिदं यतः॥५५॥
“If you have resolved upon such a profoundly improper deed, it is a great sin that will destroy the fame of Kakutstha’s lineage.
Passage 56
स वै महात्मा धर्मिष्ठो रामः सत्यानतिक्रमः। पापदृष्ट्या त्वया नैव द्रष्टव्यो रघुवंशजः॥५६॥
“That great Rāma is supremely righteous and never departs from truth. You must not look upon the descendant of Raghu with sinful intent.”
Passage 57
त्वदर्थमेव धर्मात्मा गुणवाँल्लोकरञ्जनः। स्त्रिया वचनमाहृत्य रामः पित्रा विवासितः॥५७॥
“It was for your sake that your father, honoring a woman’s word, exiled righteous and virtuous Rāma, delight of the worlds.
Passage 58
न त्वं वनेऽपि तिष्ठन्तं तं सभार्यं च सानुजम्। रामं क्लेशयितुं नार्हो रघूणां वंशजो भवन्॥५८॥
“As a descendant of Raghu, you must not afflict Rāma, who now dwells in the forest with his wife and younger brother.” Bharata Declares His Devotion
Passage 59
इत्युदीरितमाकर्ण्य भारद्वाजेन योगिना। दुःखितो बाष्पपूर्णाक्षः प्रत्युवाच विनिःश्वसन्॥५९॥
Hearing these words from the yogin Bharadvāja, Bharata became distressed. His eyes filled with tears, and he replied with a deep sigh.
Passage 60
गद्गदीभूतकण्ठत्वादपरिस्पष्टभाषणः। हा हा हतोऽस्म्यहं ब्रह्मन् यदेवं मामभाषसे॥६०॥
His throat choked and his speech indistinct, he cried, “Alas, revered sage, I am undone if even you address me in this way!
Passage 61
मात्रा मम कृतं पापमहं शोचामि भूरिशः। न तं कालमवाप्नोमि यस्मिन्नार्यः प्रवासितः॥६१॥
“I grieve exceedingly over the sin committed by my mother. I was not present at the time when my noble brother was exiled.
Passage 62
नामुमर्थमहं जाने मातुलेषु चिराद् वसन्। जननीमप्यहं हन्यां यदि रामो न मां त्यजेत्॥६२॥
“Living long among my maternal relatives, I knew nothing of this affair. I would even punish my mother utterly, if Rāma would not thereby abandon me.
Passage 63
अयं तु मे महान् रोषो यन्मात्रा जनितो भवे। मातुरेव च पापेन लिप्तोऽहं पापवर्जितः॥६३॥
“My great anger is that I was born from such a mother. Though innocent, I have been stained by my mother’s sin alone.
Passage 64
अधुनाहं व्रजाम्याहं रघुवंशविभूषणम्। प्रत्यानेतुं वने वासादभिषिच्य नृपासने॥६४॥
“I now go to bring back the ornament of Raghu’s lineage from his forest dwelling and consecrate him upon the royal throne.
Passage 65
आभिषेकाणि द्रव्याणि ब्राह्मणांश्चाभिषेचकान्। नयामि तत्र यत्रार्यो विद्यते मण्डयन् वनम्॥६५॥
“I am bringing the substances for consecration and the brāhmaṇas who will perform it to the place where my noble brother now adorns the forest.
Passage 66
मनसा कर्मणा वाचा तस्य दासोऽस्म्यहं मुने। न मे राज्यस्पृहा ब्रह्मन् रामसेवाभिकाङ्क्षिणः॥६६॥
“Sage, I am his servant in mind, deed, and speech. Revered one, I desire service to Rāma and have no longing for the kingdom.
Passage 67
नान्यथा मयि शङ्केथाः प्रसीद भगवन् मयि। तवाशिषाभिवाञ्छामि मयि ज्येष्ठः प्रसीदतु॥६७॥
“Do not suspect otherwise of me. Lord, be gracious to me. I seek your blessing that my elder brother may be gracious to me.”
Passage 68
निशम्य कैकयीपुत्रवचनं स महामुनिः। प्रससाद हृदात्यर्थं तुष्टाव तं मुहुर्मुहुः॥६८॥
Hearing the son of Kaikeyī’s words, the great sage became deeply pleased and praised him again and again.
Passage 69
उपपन्नमिदं मन्ये सर्वं त्वयि महामते। राघवे विमले वंशे जातमात्रा हि निर्मलाः॥६९॥
“Wise prince, I find all this wholly fitting in you. Those born in Rāghava’s stainless lineage are pure from birth.
Passage 70
न धर्मातिक्रमकरा न खला नापि कामिनः। नाकीर्तिभाजनाः केचिदद्यावधि कुले तव॥७०॥
“To this day none in your family has violated dharma, acted wickedly, been a slave to desire, or become a vessel of disgrace.
Passage 71
स एव विमलो वंशो वैवस्वतमनोः किल। बभूवुर्धार्मिका यत्र मान्धातृसगरादयः॥७१॥
“This is indeed the stainless line of Vaivasvata Manu, in which righteous kings such as Māndhātṛ and Sagara arose.
Passage 72
एकैकस्य गुणान् वक्तुं कः शक्नोति जनो भुवि। तेषां कीर्तिकरा यूयं सर्वे दशरथात्मजाः॥७२॥
“Who on earth could recount the virtues of each one? All you sons of Daśaratha bring further fame to those ancestors.
Passage 73
मातुः कृत्यमनाहत्य साधु ते मतिरूर्जिता। भवान् वर्धयिता लोके रघूणां कीर्तिसागरम्॥७३॥
“Without concealing your mother’s deed, your noble resolve has become strong. You will enlarge the ocean of the Raghus’ fame in the world.
Passage 74
प्रीयेऽहं कैकयीसूनो तव बुद्ध्यातिसौम्यया। आर्ये गुणवति ज्येष्ठे त्वया सम्यग्विचारितम्॥७४॥
“Son of Kaikeyī, I am pleased by your exceedingly gentle understanding. You have rightly reflected upon your noble, virtuous elder brother. Bharadvāja Invites the Entire Company
Passage 75
त्वाहं निमन्त्रयिष्यामि ससैन्यं ससुहृद्गणम्। समन्त्रिणं सभृत्यौघं सद्विजातिमुनिव्रतम्॥७५॥
“I shall invite you together with your army and friends, ministers and hosts of servants, twice-born men, and ascetics.
Passage 76
सयुग्यवाजिमातङ्गमन्नैः सुस्वादुभोजनैः। यथाकामोपपन्नैश्च दधिदुग्धमधुव्रजैः॥७६॥
“I shall honor your draft animals, horses, and elephants with delicious foods suited to every wish, together with abundant curds, milk, and honey.
Passage 77
चोष्यैर्लेह्यैस्तथा पेयैर्भोज्यैः स्वादूपपादितैः। यस्य यावद्यथायोग्यैरश्वानां यवसैस्तथा॥७७॥
“There will be tasty things to suck, lick, drink, and eat, each in the proper measure for every person, and fodder for the horses.
Passage 78
गजानां शर्कराज्याक्तैः पिण्डगोधूमसम्भवैः। बन्धूनां सुहृदां चैव मन्त्रिणां च पुरोधसाम्॥७८॥
“There will be wheat balls mixed with sugar and ghee for the elephants, and provisions for relatives, friends, ministers, and priests.
Passage 79
स्वादुबह्वन्नसम्भारैर्मेरेयैर्विविधैस्तथा। राजभोज्यैरनेकैश्च सुक्लृप्तैर्बहुसंविधैः॥७९॥
“Many stores of savory foods, varied drinks, and numerous kinds of carefully prepared royal fare will be supplied.
Passage 80
कन्दैर्मूलैः फलैः शाकैर्भक्ष्यैरन्नैरनेकशः। अहं त्वां प्रीणयिष्यामि परिवारगणैः सह॥८०॥
“With tubers, roots, fruits, vegetables, delicacies, and many foods, I shall satisfy you together with your whole retinue.
Passage 81
निमन्त्रितोऽसि भरत त्वं मया वन्यवृत्तिना। मम प्रीत्यानुजानीहि मद्गृहे भोक्तुमद्य भोः॥८१॥
“Bharata, though I live upon forest fare, you are my invited guest. Please consent, for my satisfaction, to dine in my home today.
Passage 82
किमर्थं बलमुत्सृज्य त्वमेकाकी समागतः। किं नेह विस्तृतो देशः सेनासंवासनैचितः॥८२॥
“Why have you left the army and come alone? Is this broad country not suitable for accommodating your forces?”
Passage 83
स तमाह मुनिश्रेष्ठं प्राञ्जलिर्नम्रकन्धरः। सर्वं त्वया कृतं ब्रह्मन् भूयो मत्प्रीतिसाधनम्॥८३॥
With joined palms and bowed shoulders, Bharata replied to the foremost sage, “Revered one, you have already done everything to secure my happiness.
Passage 84
सबलः ससुहृद्बन्धुस्तोषितोऽस्मि न संशयः। दूरे संस्थापितं सैन्यमाश्रमोन्मर्दशङ्कया॥८४॥
“Without doubt, I and my forces, friends, and relatives are satisfied. I stationed the army far away out of concern that it might damage the hermitage.
Passage 85
शैलोपमैर्गजैस्तुङ्गैर्वाजिभिस्तरलैर्भृशम्। बलैरुच्चावचैर्दीर्घैश्छादितमहीतलैः॥८५॥
“Its lofty mountain-like elephants, swift horses, and far-stretching ranks of many kinds cover the ground.
Passage 86
नानाविधजनस्तोमैः सम्मर्दः स्यात्तवाश्रमे। तपोनिष्ठाश्च मुनय उद्विजेरन्नुपद्रुताः॥८६॥
“Such crowds of many sorts of people would congest your hermitage, and the sages devoted to austerity would be disturbed and troubled.
Passage 87
इत्यहं महतीं सेनां दूरे संस्थाप्य भक्तितः। पद्भ्यामेवेह सम्प्राप्तस्त्वां द्रष्टुं पावकोपमम्॥८७॥
“Therefore I respectfully stationed the great army far away and came here on foot to see you, radiant like fire.
Passage 88
स्थानं निदिश्यतां तन्मे यत्र रामो विराजते। तेनैव महती प्रीतिर्मम स्याद्भोजनाधिका॥८८॥
“Please point out the place where Rāma now dwells. That alone would give me a joy greater than any meal.
Passage 89
आतिथ्यं च त्वया ब्रह्मन् कृतमेव ममाधिकम्। तवाश्रमे कोपलभ्यैः कन्दमूलफलादिकैः॥८९॥
“Revered sage, you have already granted me abundant hospitality with the tubers, roots, fruits, and other things available in your hermitage.
Passage 90
ततोऽधिकं च ते ब्रह्मन् किं न्यूनं सिद्धयोगिनः। आयासाल्लभ्यतेऽस्माभिः सा सम्पत्सहजा तव॥९०॥
“What could a perfected yogin like you lack beyond that? The prosperity that is natural to you can be obtained by us only through great effort.”
Passage 91
अथाब्रवीन्मुनिश्रेष्ठो भरतं सौम्यदर्शनम्। आनयेहाखिलं सैन्यं मयास्यद्य निमन्त्रितः॥९१॥
The foremost sage replied to gentle-looking Bharata, “Bring the entire army here. Today it too is invited by me.
Passage 92
आतिथ्यं मेऽनुजानीहि यथाकामोपभोगतः। अद्य भुक्त्वा सुविश्रान्तः ससैन्यस्तिष्ठ मद्गृहे॥९२॥
“Allow me to offer hospitality with enjoyment according to every wish. Eat today, rest well, and stay with your army in my dwelling.
Passage 93
द्रष्टासि राममन्येद्युश्चित्रकूटनिवासिनम्। तद्वनं सुमहद्रम्यं पुण्यं मन्दाकिनीतटे॥९३॥
“On the following day you will see Rāma dwelling at Citrakūṭa. That vast, beautiful, and sacred forest stands on the Mandākinī’s bank,
Passage 94
नितान्तशीतलामोदिमन्दमारुतवीजितम्। नानाविधद्रुमाकीर्णं पिकालिशुककूजितम्॥९४॥
“fanned by exceedingly cool, fragrant, gentle breezes, filled with trees of many kinds, and resonant with cuckoos, bees, and parrots.
Passage 95
स भार्यः सानुजो यत्र सुखमास्ते रघूद्वहः। गन्तासि श्वः परश्वो वा प्राप्तासि महतीं मुदम्॥९५॥
“There the bearer of Raghu’s line lives happily with his wife and brother. You may go tomorrow or the next day and will attain great joy.”
Passage 96
आज्ञप्त इत्थं मुनिना भरतश्चैव शत्रुजित्। तथेति सत्वरं चक्रे प्रीतिमान् मुनिवाक्यतः॥९६॥
Thus instructed by the sage, Bharata and Śatrughna gladly and promptly replied, “So be it,” in obedience to his words. Bharadvāja Summons Celestial Hospitality
Passage 97
ततः स भगवान् योगी निमन्त्र्य भरतं तथा। संविधां कल्पयामास निजवैभवसम्भवाम्॥९७॥
Having thus invited Bharata, the blessed yogin began arranging hospitality arising from his own spiritual majesty.
Passage 98
अग्निहोत्रगृहं गत्वा सकृदाचम्य सिद्धिमान्। आतिथ्यं कर्तुकामोऽस्य सर्वं तत्समपादयत्॥९८॥
The perfected sage entered the fire-offering chamber, sipped water once, and, desiring to honor Bharata, brought every arrangement into being.
Passage 99
आययौ तस्य सदने विश्वकर्मा सुवैभवः। त्वष्टा प्रजापतिश्चैव महाभूतिमहाघनः॥९९॥
The splendid Viśvakarman came to his dwelling, as did Tvaṣṭṛ and Prajāpati, great concentrations of creative power.
Passage 100
इन्द्रादयो लोकपालास्तत्तल्लोकविभूतिभिः। गन्धर्वाप्सरसो देवा नद्यः कामरसस्रवाः॥१००॥
Indra and the other guardians of the worlds came with the riches of their realms, together with Gandharvas, Apsarases, gods, and rivers flowing with every desired essence.
Passage 101
मुनिराज्ञापयामास योगसिद्धो महातपाः। आतिथ्यं कर्तुमिच्छामि भरतस्याद्य सुश्रियः॥१०१॥
The greatly austere sage, perfected in yoga, commanded them: “Today I wish to extend splendid hospitality to Bharata.
Passage 102
सर्वे भवन्तः कुर्वन्तु संविधा अत्यलौकिकीः। महाराजकुमारोऽसौ याभिस्तुष्येन्महामनाः॥१०२॥
“All of you should create utterly celestial arrangements by which this great-hearted prince may be satisfied.
Passage 103
अमू साक्षाद् रामांशौ वै शत्रुघ्नभरतावुभौ। मनोरमैर्गुणगणै रामलक्ष्मणसन्निभौ॥१०३॥
“Śatrughna and Bharata are veritable portions of Rāma, and by their delightful virtues they resemble Rāma and Lakṣmaṇa.”
Passage 104
स्वर्भूपाताललोकेषु भूतयो या मुदावहाः। ताः सर्वा उपसीदन्तु ममाश्रमनिकेतने॥१०४॥
“Let every joy-giving splendor found in heaven, on earth, or in the netherworld assemble here in my hermitage.
Passage 105
मेरेयाणि मनोज्ञानि भक्ष्याणि विविधानि च। दधिदुग्धसितादीनि कल्पयन्तु विशेषतः॥१०५॥
“Prepare especially delightful drinks, foods of every kind, curds, milk, sugar, and all similar provisions.
Passage 106
वासांसि सुमहार्हाणि भूषणानि ज्वलन्ति च। आलेपनानि दिव्यानि पुष्पाणि विविधानि च॥१०६॥
“Provide exceedingly precious garments, radiant ornaments, divine unguents, and flowers of many kinds.
Passage 107
माल्यानि सुविचित्राणि मांसानि च मधूनि च। चतुर्विधानि चान्नानि तथा भोगान् पृथग्विधान्॥१०७॥
“Bring wonderfully varied garlands, meats, honey, the four kinds of food, and enjoyments of every separate sort.
Passage 108
कल्पयन्तु ममागारं समेत्य सकलाः सुराः। यथातिथ्यं प्रकुर्वीय भरतस्य महात्मनः॥१०८॥
“Let all the gods gather and furnish my dwelling so that I may properly honor great-hearted Bharata as my guest.”
Passage 109
इत्याज्ञप्ताः सुराः सर्वे तथेति समपादयन्। अलौकिकान् महाभोगान् भूमिजानां सुदुर्लभान्॥१०९॥
Thus commanded, all the gods replied, “So be it,” and produced immense celestial enjoyments extremely difficult for earth-born people to obtain.
Passage 110
विदधौ भगवान् सोमः स्वाद्वन्नममृतोपमम्। चतुर्विधं बहुरसं संविधाभिः समन्वितम्॥११०॥
The blessed Moon prepared delicious food like nectar, fourfold, rich in many flavors, and accompanied by every provision.
Passage 111
चोष्यं लेह्यं च पेयं च भक्ष्यं प्रादुरभूद्बहु। मेरेयाण्यसृजन् नद्यो मद्यं बहुविधं तथा॥१११॥
Abundant things to suck, lick, drink, and eat appeared. Rivers released delightful beverages and many kinds of drink.
Passage 112
शीतलानि सुगन्धीनि प्रावहन्नुदकानि च। काश्चिदिक्षुरसस्रोतोवहाः काश्चित्पयोवहाः॥११२॥
Cool and fragrant waters flowed; some streams carried sugarcane juice and others carried milk.
Passage 113
काश्चिन्मधुवहाः काश्चिद्दधिकुल्या घृतस्रवाः। तरवः प्रादुरभवन् विचित्रफलपुष्पिणः॥११३॥
Some bore honey, while channels of curd and streams of ghee appeared. Trees arose bearing wondrous fruits and flowers.
Passage 114
चन्दनालेपनसृजो दिव्यगन्धरसस्रवाः। मधुस्रवा विचित्रस्रग्वासोऽलङ्कारभूषिताः॥११४॥
They yielded sandal paste, divine scents, and fragrant essences, flowed with honey, and were adorned with varied garlands, garments, and ornaments.
Passage 115
विचित्रमद्यमेरेयस्रवा मांसौघवाहिनः। अकस्मान्नन्दनवनगोचरः प्रववौ मरुत्॥११५॥
Other streams bore varied drinks and masses of meat. Suddenly a breeze from the groves of Nandana began to blow.
Passage 116
अवर्षन् वारिदास्तत्र पुष्पवृष्टीः समन्ततः। सन्तो देवगन्धर्वा वाद्यानि समवादयन्॥११६॥
Clouds showered flowers everywhere, while the assembled gods and Gandharvas played their instruments together.
Passage 117
श्रूयते स्म कलो रम्यः सर्वतो वल्लकीध्वनिः। नारदस्तुम्बुरुश्चैव चक्राते वीणया ध्वनिम्॥११७॥
The lovely, melodious sound of lutes was heard on every side. Nārada and Tumburu made their vīṇās resound.
Passage 118
विश्वाची च घृताची च मेनका पुञ्जिकस्थला। मञ्जुघोषा सुकेशी च रम्भा रामा तिलोत्तमा॥११८॥
Viśvācī, Ghṛtācī, Menakā, Puñjikasthalā, Mañjughoṣā, Sukeśī, Rambhā, Rāmā, and Tilottamā appeared.
Passage 119
उर्वश्याद्या अप्सरसो ननृतुर्भरतागमे। विश्वकर्माकरोत्सैन्ये स्वं कर्म विविधं ततः॥११९॥
Urvaśī and the other Apsarases danced at Bharata’s arrival, while Viśvakarman performed his manifold craft throughout the army.
Passage 120
इन्द्रनीलमणिच्छन्ना समन्ताद् भूरिदृश्यतः। नवशाद्वलसंछन्ना कुञ्जपुञ्जसमावृताः॥१२०॥
The grounds became covered with sapphire-like stones in every direction, spread with fresh turf and surrounded by clusters of bowers.
Passage 121
नानाविधाश्च तरवः प्रादुरासन् समन्ततः। अवहन् स्वच्छपानीया नद्यः काञ्चनकूलिनः॥१२१॥
Trees of many kinds appeared everywhere, and rivers of clear water flowed between golden banks.
Passage 122
शुकसारसकादम्बमयूरपिकनादिताः। राजहंसरवोपेताः कुञ्जमण्डपशोभिताः॥१२२॥
They resounded with parrots, cranes, geese, peacocks, cuckoos, and royal swans, and were beautified by bower-pavilions.
Passage 123
लतावितानसंछन्नकाञ्चनातीरभूमयः। सरस्वतीमुखाः पुण्या गङ्गागोदावरीमुखाः॥१२३॥
Their golden banks were covered by canopies of vines. Sacred rivers headed by Sarasvatī, Gaṅgā, and Godāvarī appeared there.
Passage 124
तासां तीरप्रदेशेषु सैन्यमासाम्बभूव तत्। विचित्राणि च हर्म्याणि मणिहेममयान्यभुः॥१२४॥
The army settled along those riverbanks, where wondrous mansions made of gems and gold arose.
Passage 125
वलभीजालकोपेता गृहाः स्वर्णविनिर्मिताः। चतुःशालानि रम्याणि निवासाश्च पृथग्विधाः॥१२५॥
Golden houses appeared with galleries and latticed windows, delightful four-courtyard halls, and residences of many separate kinds.
Passage 126
गजानां वाजिनां चैव शाला अन्नादिसम्भृताः। रत्नप्राकारसद्भित्तिगोपुराजिरमण्डिताः॥१२६॥
Stables supplied with food arose for elephants and horses, adorned with jeweled enclosures, solid walls, gateways, and courtyards.
Passage 127
तत्र राजगृहं रम्यं शरन्मेघसुनिर्मलम्। सुतोरणं पृथक् स्थानं दिव्याम्बरसमन्वितम्॥१२७॥
A lovely royal residence stood there, spotless as an autumn cloud, with beautiful gateways, separate chambers, and divine fabrics.
Passage 128
दिव्यास्तरणसम्पन्नं सर्वतः सौरभोमियत्। शशिभृन्महातल्पसनाथभवनाञ्चितम्॥१२८॥
It was furnished with divine coverings and fragrant on every side, and its rooms were graced by great moon-bright couches.
Passage 129
सर्वतः सर्वरसवद् दिव्यभोजनसंयुतम्। सर्वभोगैः सुसम्पन्नं सुमृष्टमणिभाजनम्॥१२९॥
Everywhere it offered divine food of every flavor, every kind of enjoyment, and finely polished vessels of gems.
Passage 130
देवगन्धर्वनादाढ्यं श्रीमत्सर्वसुखान्वितम्। प्राविशद् भरतः श्रीमान् महर्षेराज्ञया तु तत्॥१३०॥
At the great sage’s command, glorious Bharata entered that splendid place, filled with every comfort and the music of gods and Gandharvas.
Passage 131
पुरोधसा मुनिवरैर्द्विजवर्यैश्च मन्त्रिभिः। राजलोकैस्तथा सर्वैः सुहृद्भिर्बन्धुभिः सह॥१३१॥
He entered with the family priest, eminent sages and brāhmaṇas, ministers, royal attendants, friends, and relatives.
Passage 132
तत्र सिंहासनं दिव्यं मणिरत्नविभूषितम्। चामरं तालवृन्तं च छत्रं च शशिनिर्मलम्॥१३२॥
There he saw a divine throne adorned with precious gems, together with a yak-tail fan, palm fan, and parasol spotless as the moon.
Passage 133
प्रापश्यद् भरतः श्रीमान् प्रणम्यार्यधिया मुहुः। प्रणम्य च मुहुर्ज्येष्ठं रामं राजीवलोचनम्॥१३३॥
Glorious Bharata gazed upon it while repeatedly bowing with his noble brother in mind, again and again saluting lotus-eyed Rāma.
Passage 134
सेवां प्रदर्शयामास तत्रार्यस्य यथोचितम्। कदाचित्तालवृन्तेन वीजयामास भृत्यवत्॥१३४॥
He enacted there the service properly due to his noble brother, at times fanning him like a servant with the palm fan.
Passage 135
कदाचिच्चामरकरः कदाचिच्छत्रपाणिकः। पादसंवाहनधिया कदाचिन्मणिपीठके॥१३५॥
At times he held the yak-tail fan, at times the parasol, and at times attended the jeweled footstool with the thought of massaging Rāma’s feet.
Passage 136
करौ प्रचालयामास भरतो रामसेवकः। रामेणेवाभ्यनुज्ञातस्तत्रोपाविशदन्तिके॥१३६॥
Bharata, servant of Rāma, moved his hands in service. Then, as though Rāma himself had given permission, he sat nearby.
Passage 137
उपविष्टाः समर्यादं मन्त्रिणश्च पुरोहिताः। सिषेविरे च तत्रामुं हाहाहूहूपुरोगमाः॥१३७॥
The ministers and priests sat according to rank, while celestial singers led by Hāhā and Hūhū attended him.
Passage 138
गन्धर्वा गायनवरा देवलोकेषु गोचराः। मृदङ्गान् मुरजान् वीणास्तालान् झर्झरकांस्तथा॥१३८॥
The finest Gandharva singers of the divine worlds took up mṛdaṅgas, murajas, vīṇās, cymbals, and jingling instruments.
Passage 139
अवादयन्त पटहान् वाद्यानि मधुराणि च। ननृतुर्देवनर्तक्यो गन्धर्वप्रवरा जगुः॥१३९॥
They played drums and melodious instruments; heavenly dancers danced, and the foremost Gandharvas sang.
Passage 140
मूर्च्छनास्वरविस्तारैर्भरतं पर्यरञ्जयन्। आलेपनैः सुगन्धैश्च कस्तूरीकुङ्कुमादिभिः॥१४०॥
With elaborations of scales and notes they delighted Bharata, while fragrant unguents such as musk and saffron were supplied.
Passage 141
माल्यैर्विचित्रैर्मधुरैः कुसुमैर्नन्दनोद्भवैः। वस्त्रैराभरणैश्चैव पर्य्यमोदन्त सैनिकाः॥१४१॥
The soldiers rejoiced in varied, lovely garlands of flowers born in Nandana, as well as garments and ornaments.
Passage 142
सर्वे भोगाश्च सर्वेषामिच्छया पर्युपस्थिताः। शयनान्यासनान्युच्चैर्भूषणान्यम्बराणि च॥१४२॥
Every enjoyment appeared for everyone according to desire—lofty beds and seats, ornaments, and garments.
Passage 143
माल्यानि गन्धलेपाश्च स्वादून्यन्नानि भूरिशः। फलानि मुखवासाश्च बभूवुः सुलभा नृणाम्॥१४३॥
Garlands, fragrant pastes, abundant savory foods, fruits, and mouth fresheners became readily available to all.
Passage 144
ररञ्ज भरतस्यान्तःकरणं वीक्ष्य तां श्रियम्। अहो स्वर्गोऽयमतुल इत्युच्चैरभिनन्दितः॥१४४॥
Bharata’s heart delighted on seeing that splendor, and people loudly exclaimed, “Ah, this is heaven itself, without equal!”
Passage 145
उपासाञ्चक्रिरे चैवं दिव्या युवतयः क्षणात्। कुबेरभवनादेत्य सहस्रं शतमेव च॥१४५॥
In an instant eleven hundred celestial maidens came from Kubera’s palace and began attending the guests.
Passage 146
चाम्पेयहेमचपलागौराङ्ग्यो हरिणीदृशः। सहस्रं च शतं कान्ता आजग्मुः शक्रमन्दिरात्॥१४६॥
Another eleven hundred lovely, doe-eyed women came from Indra’s palace, their fair limbs flashing like campaka-gold.
Passage 147
भरतस्योपासनार्थं सर्वाः काञ्चनसुप्रभाः॥१४७॥
All shone beautifully like gold and came to attend Bharata.
Passage 148
काश्चिज्जगुश्च ननृतुः काश्चिद्वाद्यान्यवादयन्। काश्चिन्महर्षिणाऽऽज्ञप्ताः परिचेरुः सहस्रशः॥१४८॥
Some sang and danced, some played instruments, and thousands of others, commanded by the great sage, rendered personal service.
Passage 149
वृक्षा एव जगुस्तत्र वादित्राणि च दध्वनुः। इत्यद्भुतं वीक्षमाणा मुमुहुः सर्वतो जनाः॥१४९॥
The trees themselves sang and musical instruments resounded. Seeing this wonder, people everywhere were left astonished.
Passage 150
याः काश्च संविधास्तत्र वाञ्छिताः सैनिकैर्जनैः। परिधानान्नपानाद्यास्ताः सर्वा ऊहिरे द्रुमाः॥१५०॥
Whatever provisions the soldiers desired—clothing, food, drink, and more—the trees brought forth in full.
Passage 151
महदद्भुतमालोक्य मुनेरातिथ्यकर्मणि। विस्मिता मानवाः सर्वे ज्ञात्वा श्रियममानुषीम्॥१५१॥
Witnessing this immense marvel in the sage’s hospitality and recognizing its superhuman splendor, all the people were amazed.
Passage 152
ये भोगा दिवि देवानां प्रापुस्तान् भुवि मानवाः। भारद्वाजस्य वचनाद् भरतातिथ्यकर्मणि॥१५२॥
Through Bharadvāja’s command and his hospitality to Bharata, mortals on earth obtained the enjoyments of the gods in heaven.
Passage 153
अनृत्यन् वल्लिकास्तत्र वल्लिका एव चोज्जगुः। वल्लिका वाद्यधारिण्यो वादयामासुरुच्चकैः॥१५३॥
The vines themselves danced and sang there; other vines held musical instruments and played them loudly.
Passage 154
सर्वमाश्चर्यमभवत् पश्यतां सर्वतो नृणाम्। पीत्वा कादम्बरीं सैन्यास्तमुस्कन्धपरिस्रुताम्॥१५४॥
Everything became a wonder to the people looking on from every side. The soldiers drank fragrant liquor flowing from the trunks of trees.
Passage 155
रेमिरे स्वर्गवेश्याभिर्दिव्यालङ्कारभूषिताः। परे नदीस्वरूपेण वहन्तीं मदिरां पपुः॥१५५॥
Adorned with celestial ornaments, they delighted in the company of heavenly courtesans, while others drank wine flowing in the form of rivers.
Passage 156
वृक्षस्कन्धस्थितान्यादुर्भक्ष्याणि विविधानि च। नदीनां पङ्कप्रायाणि पायसानि च लेभिरे॥१५६॥
They found many delicacies appearing upon tree trunks and puddings as abundant as the rich sediment of rivers.
Passage 157
तत्र तत्रैव सुलभा भोगाः समभवंस्तदा। मद्यं मांसं च सुस्वादु साधुक्लृप्तं सुपाचितम्॥१५७॥
Enjoyments became readily available everywhere: drink and delicious meat, expertly prepared and thoroughly cooked.
Passage 158
इष्यते यस्य यद्यावत्तस्य तत्सुलभं तदा। बभूव भरतातिथ्ये महर्षेर्योगसिद्धितः॥१५८॥
Whatever anyone desired, in whatever quantity, became easy to obtain during Bharata’s reception through the great sage’s yogic perfection.
Passage 159
एकैकं पुरुषं तत्र पञ्च षट् च मृगीदृशः। उपासाञ्चक्रिरे भूयः स्नापनालेपनादिषु॥१५९॥
Five or six doe-eyed women attended each man, assisting him with bathing, anointing, and other services.
Passage 160
सुवर्णकूलिनीनां च कूलेषु मर्त्यास्तदा। स्निग्धकल्पद्रुमच्छायाशीततलेषु सुगन्धिषु॥१६०॥
Mortals rested upon the fragrant, cool banks of golden-banked rivers beneath the luxuriant shade of wish-fulfilling trees.
Passage 161
संस्थितान् पुरुषान् नार्यः स्वर्गादेत्य सिषेविरे। पादसंवाहनं चक्रुः काश्चिद् दिव्या मृगीदृशः॥१६१॥
Women descended from heaven to attend the men resting there; some celestial, doe-eyed maidens massaged their feet.
Passage 162
वाजिनो वारणाश्चोष्ट्राः खरा अश्वतरा वृषाः। पपुः सुराप्रवाहासु सरित्सु मुदिता इह॥१६२॥
Horses, elephants, camels, donkeys, mules, and bulls joyfully drank here from rivers flowing with divine drink.
Passage 163
सैनिकान् भोजयामासुर्भक्त्या दिव्या मृगीदृशः। विकारानैक्षवान् रम्यान् लाजापूपान् मधूनि च॥१६३॥
The divine doe-eyed women respectfully fed the soldiers delightful sugarcane preparations, parched grain, cakes, honey, and more.
Passage 164
नाप्ता नैवोपभुक्तास्ते रामकामप्रपूरिताः। विसस्मरुरयोध्यामत्यखिलानन्दभोगदाम्॥१६४॥
Filled with desire to see Rāma, they enjoyed things never previously obtained or tasted and forgot even Ayodhyā with all its pleasures.
Passage 165
नाभिरन्तुं च तेऽन्यत्र जनाश्च कमिरे ततः। संतृप्ता मुदिता नैव रामदर्शनलालसाः॥१६५॥
The people no longer wished to delight elsewhere. Fully satisfied and joyful, they nevertheless remained eager for the sight of Rāma.
Passage 166
भरतायाशिषोऽकुर्वन् रामस्य जगतस्तथा। ऐरयन् मुदिता वाचं भरतस्यानुयायिनः॥१६६॥
Bharata’s followers joyfully voiced blessings for Bharata, for Rāma, and for the whole world.
Passage 167
राजपुत्र चिरंजीव स्वर्गे सम्प्रापिता वयम्। अमञ्ज्महि महाभोगान् मर्त्यलोके सुदुर्लभान्॥१६७॥
“Prince, live long! We have been conveyed to heaven and immersed in magnificent enjoyments exceedingly rare in the mortal world.
Passage 168
रामस्य दर्शनं तेऽस्तु सर्वान् कामानवाप्नुहि। इति नानास्वरोपेतां गिरं लोका बभाषिरे॥१६८॥
“May you behold Rāma and attain every desire!” Thus the people spoke in a chorus of many voices.
Passage 169
दिव्यासवरसोन्मत्ता दिव्यभोगोपभोगिनः। दिव्यामृतान्नसुहिताः दिव्यालङ्कारभूषिताः॥१६९॥
Exhilarated by celestial drink, they enjoyed divine pleasures, were satisfied by nectar-like food, and were adorned with heavenly ornaments.
Passage 170
न तत्र मलिनः कश्चिदासीन्नाभूषितस्तथा। नानुद्वर्तितदेहश्च नाधौतवसनो जनः॥१७०॥
No one there was dirty or unadorned; no body lacked fragrant cleansing, and no person wore unwashed clothes.
Passage 171
सर्वेषां पार्श्वगा आसन् वाप्यो मेरेयसम्भृताः। नद्यश्चापूपकूलिन्यः पायसप्रवहास्तदा॥१७१॥
Beside everyone were pools filled with delightful drink, rivers banked with cakes, and streams of sweet pudding.
Passage 172
कामधेनुसमा गावः स्वर्गात्तत्राभिपेदिरे। तासां क्षीरैः सर्वकाममयैः प्रमुदिता जनाः॥१७२॥
Cows equal to Kāmadhenu arrived from heaven, and the people rejoiced in their milk, which fulfilled every desire.
Passage 173
वितानिन्यो द्रुमाश्चासन् सर्वकामोपभोगदाः। अवहन् मांससम्भारान् सुस्वादुमृदुपाचितान्॥१७३॥
Canopy-like trees granted every desired enjoyment and bore stores of tender, well-cooked, delicious meat.
Passage 174
अपश्यंस्तेषु मांसानि नानारूपाणि सैनिकाः। मार्गाण्याजानि वाराहाण्याज्याक्तानि मृदूनि च॥१७४॥
The soldiers saw meats of many forms upon them—tender portions of deer, goat, and boar, richly dressed with ghee.
Passage 175
सुगन्धीनि सभोज्यानि मृष्टानि मधुराणि च। मयूरतित्तिरिमुखपक्षिमांसान्यनेकशः॥१७५॥
There were fragrant, refined, and savory foods, including many preparations of peacock, partridge, and other birds.
Passage 176
मत्स्यभेदाननेकांश्च गालिमद्गुररोहितान्। पाठीनपीतगरङ्घाटान् घृताक्तांश्च सुपाचितान्॥१७६॥
Many kinds of fish—gāli, madgura, rohita, pāṭhīna, pītagara, and ghaṇṭa—were well cooked and dressed with ghee.
Passage 177
ददावन्यस्तथान्यस्मै स्वादुस्वादु प्रियं तदा। सहस्रशः पाकभेदाः शाकभेदाः सहस्रशः॥१७७॥
One person offered another whatever savory favorite he desired. There were thousands of cooked preparations and thousands of vegetable dishes.
Passage 178
वीक्ष्याभवन् जनास्तत्र विस्मिताः सर्वतस्तदा। दधिदुग्धसितादीनि स्वर्णपात्रेषु भूरिशः॥१७८॥
People everywhere gazed in amazement at abundant curds, milk, sugar, and more served in golden vessels.
Passage 179
यथेष्टं लेभिरे लोका भरतातिथ्यभोजने। शर्कराः पायसान्युच्चैर्यत्र कुत्रापि लेभिरे॥१७९॥
At the feast honoring Bharata, the people obtained whatever they wished; sugar and excellent puddings could be found everywhere.
Passage 180
सर्वे भोगा अह्वयन्त वस्त्रालङ्कारलेपनाः। उपानहः पादुकाश्च यानानि गजवाजिनः॥१८०॥
Every enjoyment beckoned to them: garments, ornaments, unguents, shoes, sandals, conveyances, elephants, and horses.
Passage 181
अञ्जनीयाः कुञ्जनीयाः कङ्कताद्याः सुपेशलाः। भाजनानि स्वर्णरूप्यरत्नजानि समन्ततः॥१८१॥
Fine cosmetics, grooming articles, combs, and similar things appeared, with vessels of gold, silver, and gems on every side.
Passage 182
चन्दनानि विचित्राणि वस्त्राणि कुसुमानि च। नारीणां च नराणां च ये भोगाः सुखदायकाः॥१८२॥
There were varied sandal pastes, garments, flowers, and every pleasure that could bring happiness to women and men.
Passage 183
त आसन्नाश्रमे तस्य महर्षेः स्वर्गसन्निभे। दर्पणा यावकालेयास्तैलानि सुरभीणि च॥१८३॥
All these were present in the great sage’s heaven-like hermitage, together with mirrors, red cosmetics, dark ointments, and fragrant oils.
Passage 184
उष्णोदकानि दिव्यानि स्वर्णकुम्भभृतानि च। शस्त्राण्यस्त्राणि दिव्यानि धनूंषि सुमहान्ति च॥१८४॥
There was divine hot water held in golden pitchers, as well as celestial weapons, missiles, and very great bows.
Passage 185
शयनासनसंव्यानभोजनीयान्यनेकशः। लेभिरे तत्र तत्रैव यथेष्टं सैनिका जनाः॥१८५॥
Everywhere the soldiers obtained as they wished numerous beds, seats, coverings, and foods.
Passage 186
सोत्पलाः सुजलाः शुद्धाः सपद्यवनराजयः। हेमरत्नसमाबद्धनिःश्रेणीसुमनोहराः॥१८६॥
Pure pools of clear water shone with lotuses and lotus groves, made enchanting by stairways constructed of gold and gems.
Passage 187
विरेजिरे हृदास्तत्र स्नानार्थं विविधा नृणाम्। तेषु स्नात्वा पर्यदधुर्वस्त्राण्याभूषणानि च॥१८७॥
Many pools gleamed there for people to bathe in. After bathing, they put on fresh garments and ornaments.
Passage 188
स्वप्नकल्पं तु तज्जातं नृणां रात्रिंदिनं सुखम्। मुनिना कृतमातिथ्यं भरतस्य महात्मनः॥१८८॥
The day-and-night happiness created by the sage’s hospitality to great-hearted Bharata seemed like a dream to the people.
Passage 189
विलोक्य विस्मिताः सर्वे न ततो यातुकामुकाः। अरमन्ताश्रमे तस्य देवा इव हरेः पुरे॥१८९॥
Awestruck by what they saw, none wished to depart. They delighted in his hermitage like gods in the city of Hari.
Passage 190
यैर्नावकलितः स्वर्गो दिव्यभोगोपबृंहितः। तैरेष साक्षात्संदृष्टो महर्षेः कृपया तदा॥१९०॥
Those who had never comprehended heaven with its divine enjoyments now saw it directly through the great sage’s grace.
Passage 191
क्रीडतां दिव्ययोषाभिर्नराणां मुदितात्मनाम्। व्यतीयाय निशा सर्वा भारद्वाजाश्रमे शुभे॥१९१॥
The entire night passed in Bharadvāja’s sacred hermitage as joyful men recreated in the company of celestial women.
Passage 192
ततो जातातिथ्ये नरपतिकुमारे कृतसुखे महर्षेराज्ञातः प्रतिययुरथ स्वर्गविषयाः। सगन्धर्वा नार्यो विविधसुखभोगांश्च विबुधाः क्षणात्ते शक्राद्या द्रुतमहशिमापुः सपदि ते॥१९२॥
When the prince had been honored and made happy, the heavenly powers departed at the great sage’s command. The celestial women, Gandharvas, and gods with their varied pleasures vanished at once; Indra and the others swiftly returned to their own exalted realms.
Passage 193
महर्षेरातिथ्यं दशरथकुमारस्य य इदं शृणोते श्रद्धावानुषसि शुचिरुत्थाय सततम्। न तस्यालक्ष्मीः स्यान्न च दुरितसम्भूतिरतुलां श्रियं लब्ध्वा लोके भजति मुदमारोग्यमपि यः॥१९३॥
Whoever rises pure at dawn and faithfully listens always to this account of the great sage’s hospitality to Daśaratha’s son will suffer neither misfortune nor the arising of sin. Attaining unequalled prosperity in this world, that person enjoys happiness and health.