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JAIN RAMAYAN
masses of people from all over the country thronged the city of Ayodhya. Men of eminence like Vibhishan, Sugriv, Hanuman, Nal, Neel, and Bhamandal came to Ayodhya in large numbers. Everyone was talking about self-sacrifice, renunciation, and the principles of the Charitradharma; and all were admiring and glorifying those who were adopting the Sadhudharma. In every nook and corner of the city, people were talking about these things. The atmosphere of the city was reverberating with the auspicious noises of celebrations and jubilations. The affluent people were giving generous gifts of food, clothes and money to the poor and the destitute. All were engaged in spiritual austerities and activities. The worship of the Lord was going on in temples. The entire atmosphere of the city had assumed a tone of sublimity. In all important centres of the city. excellent food was served to guests with affection and regard. Auspicious sights abounded everywhere.
The great Muni, Deshbhushan was staying in the garden outside the city of Ayodhya. He was the most prominent personality in the initiation ceremony of Bharath because it was he who gave the Deeksha to Bharath. Bharath was absorbed in listening to the words of the spiritual head. seated humbly at his feet.
At last, the day of the initiation ceremony arrived.
The necessary arrangements were made for the ceremony. Bharath, Kaikayi and one thousand kings got ready to set off to the garden.
Shri Ram embraced Bharath and Bharath was trying to take leave of his elder brother. Bharath stood clasped in the arms of Shri Ram. The tears flowed ceaselessly from Shri Ram's eyes and bathed Bharath's head. Sita stood by the side of Shri Ram holding in her hands a gold plate which contained such auspicious substances as Kumkum and coconuts, fruits and flowers. Vishalya and the other princesses were steeped in grief and anguish.
All of a sudden, Bharath remembered something. This idea which flashed to him at that moment brightened his face.
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