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182
JAIN RAMAYAN
Shri Ram. There was no dislike or contempt in her attitude towards Shri Ram. Again and again, she shed tears regretting her past action and she was filled with some nameless fear. Of course, she had heartfelt affection for Ram but the prospect of the separation from Bharath filled her with anguish. Her affection for Bharath was such that she could not bear with a separation from him. She knew Bharath's nature very well. It was certain that Bharath would renounce samsar and would pursue the path of spiritual elevation. It was certain that as soon as Shri Ram arrived at Ayodhya, Bharath would renounce everything and would become a Sadhu. When she thought of these things, Kaikayi shuddered with fear and anguish. She had no power to prevent Bharath from becoming a Sadhu. Yes, there was one ray of hope still left. If Shri Ram insisted upon Bharath's remaining in the samsar for sometime, he would certainly obey Shri Ram. He might even remain a householder. This thought gave Kaikayi some relief. At once, her face lost some of its bleakness. She thought, "I will speak to Shri Ram. I will request him to prevail upon Bharath to remain a householder. Bharath will surely respect Shri Ram's words. He reveres Shri Ram greatly, as much as he reveres his father. In fact, he has a greater regard for Shri Ram than for his father, therefore. Bharath will never slight Shri Ram's words." Kaikayi felt happy thinking that she had found the right solution to her problem, and then giving up all her worries, she took her food and went straight to Bharath.
"Dear son! Have you made all arrangements ? Of course. the sculptors and architects of Lanka have made Ayodhya magnificent.”
“Yes, mother! All arrangements have been completed. We have made thorough arrangements to receive Shri Ram and others. I have done all that is necessary. Whatever, I do for him, is but little. I will feel blessed when I see Shri Ram tomorrow, and my life will attain fulfilment !"
Bharath said looking in the direction of Lanka.
“Dear Bharath! Ram had to experience countless adversities on account of me. He had to endure many calamities.
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