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XC
ATTACHMENT AND DETACHMENT
The celebrations and jubilations were over. The crowds of visitors began to abate. The people of Ayodhya became again immersed in their routine activities. The administration was being carried out by Bharath. Peace, prosperity and felicity prevailed everywhere. But Bharath was impatiently looking for
suitable time when he could openly declare his decision to renounce the samsar. Till now, he had not been able to reveal this decision of his to Shri Ram. One day, hardening his heart a little, he approached Shri Ram with the desire of placing his decision before him.
At that time, Shri Ram sat conversing with Lakshman. hey were conversing about a serious and important matter. Just then, Bharath entered. Shri Ram, a little surprised by Bharath's unexpected visit, said looking straight at him.
"Come in, dear Bharath! We were talking about you. Our people have achieved great prosperity and progress under your able rule. The people of our kingdom have achieved extraordinary progress on account of your guidance and direction. They have achieved great progress."
"Dear brother, Bharath! What our brother Shri Ram has said is absolutely true. The ministers and the people of Ayodhya are full of admiration for your ability and vision," said Lakshman endorsing Shri Ram's opinion.
But Bharath! He stood silent, with his head bowed in deep veneration. His eyes were fixed on the ground. It was evident that he was lost in some deep thought and that he was trying hard to say something relating to his innermost thoughts. He
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