________________
In the Palace of Ayodhya
Sumitra and whenever he met them, they used to ask him when Shri Ram and Lakshman would be returning. Bharath used to keep them informed of all matters. But on that day when he went to meet Kausalya, she bathed him with the waters of affection and passed her hand over him tenderly. She said in an affectionate manner: "Dear son! I think Shri Ram is arriving tomorrow. Am I right ?"
"Yes revered mother! Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita will arrive at Ayodhya tomorrow."
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"Are they coming here by Ravan's Pushpak Viman ?"
"Yes, mother! They will come to Ayodhya by Pushpak Viman."
"I think Lakshman and Sita also will return with Ram.... Oh! how many years since I saw Sita!" Kausalya's eyes welled up with tears.
"And mother! Even my brother Shri Ram will be meeting you tomorrow after many years of separation. Lakshman will meet you and bathe your feet with tears."
"True! My son Lakshman is indeed great. He cannot bear with the sorrow of others. He is indeed affectionate and tenderhearted."
Meanwhile, Sumitra and Kaikayi came into Kausalya's
chamber.
"Dear son Bharath! Our Chief Minister sent us a message that Ram will be arriving tomorrow with Sita and Lakshman."
"Dear, mother! That is true. They are coming tomorrow." Bharath said looking towards Kaikayi. Kausalya was lost in some reminiscences of the past. Her face grew sublime like an
ocean.
"Bharath! It was a good thing that Lakshman accompanied Ram; otherwise what would have happened to Ram when Ravan committed the enormity of abducting Sita? He would have had to fight against Ravan alone?"
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