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The Reunion with Relatives
201
"Don't say such inauspicious things. My sons Ram and Lakshman are invincible heroes and for your sake, they do not hesitate even to give up their lives and it is their duty.”
At this point, the old Chief Minister entered and made an entreaty to Shri Ram.
"Dear Prince! The citizens of Ayodhya are standing in the courtyard to have a glimpse of your radiant face. Therefore kindly stand at the window so that they may see you and honour you." Shri Ram bowed to his mothers and went out. Bharath followed him like a humble servant. On seeing Shri Ram, the people issued cries of joy and jubilation which reverberated in the skies. Some lifted their hands to salute him. Some bowed their heads and all glorified him. Shri Ram folded his hands and saluted the vast masses with heartfelt regard. The masses rolled in joy like the waves of an ocean at the sight of the full moon.
Then Shri Ram accompanied by Bharath returned to his mother's palace. Aparajita who was in a mood of great delight was engaged in a jovial conversation with Lakshman, Sita and Vishalya. On seeing Bharath and Shri Ram, Sumitra said,
"Today the four brothers must have their food with their four mothers". Sumitra's suggestion was happily accepted by all, but Shri Ram's face was a little depressed and gloomy. S rughna noticed it and said,
"Revered brother ! You look depressed. What are you thinking of ? Are you thinking of any serious matter ?"
“Yes dear Shatrughna ! Today our revered father is not with us. This thought made me sad." Shri Ram's voice was choked with grief. His eyes welled up with tears. There was silence in the atmosphere. Gloom appeared on the face of everyone. Emperor Dasharath had renounced the samsar and had become a sadhu soon after Shri Ram's departure to forests.
Kausalya restrained her grief and said, “Come on! Let us have food."
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