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JAIN RAMAYAN
age to bear with her grief? Kaikayi kept thinking of Kausalya's condition. Just then Kausalya said.
“Dear Kaikayi! I have always visualized Ram in Bharath. I also visualized Lakshman in him. I have been feeling happy because Bharath has been there with us. Can you ever realise how deeply I love Bharath ?”
Countless questions arising in Kaikayi's heart seemed to have found their answer. She felt as if all her problems had been solved.
When Kausalya can realise Ram in Bharath why should I not visualise Bharath in Ram ? Surely I can,” thought Kaikayi. Now no one could prevent Bharath from becoming a Sadhu. He would surely renounce all attachments and bondages and would adopt Sadhudharma. Kaikayi understood the truth. She knew that Bharath was waiting for the arrival of Shri Ram and that soon after Shri Ram's arrival, he would become a Sadhu.
“But will Ram treat me with affection after so many years of separation ? I was the cause for his going away to forests. But Ram is not the kind of man that would entertain any illfeeling towards others; nor would he entertain any animosity against others but then there is Lakshman. He is the very embodiment of anger and his tendency is always to take revenge against those who have offended him.” Kaikayi shuddered with fear.
“Lakshman may condemn me and that may change Ram's attitude towards me. When such a thing comes about, how can I visualise Bharath in Ram ? Ah ! How deeply does Bharath love Kausalya ? What a great devotion, he has for her! And, Sita that tender lady had to go to the forests on account of me. She may not have any affection or regard for me. So, I cannot hope to receive from her any affectionate treatment."
Kaikayi was caught in a whirlpool of agitated thoughts. She felt stupefied by her thoughts. Countless doubts and fears arose in her mind. Just then some leading women of the city came in. Kausalya stepped forward and received them with a smiling face.
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