"I do not consider it proper that you should ask me thus to accept the
kingdom. According to the custom of our House, the throne belongs to the
eldest son. With all respect to you, I have decided to go to the forest and
bring Raama back to Ayodhya with Lakshmana and see that Raama is crowned. Please get ready
the men and materials for this purpose. Prepare the road for the journey. Let labourers be
mobilised for it. It is my final and irrevocable decision not to accept the crown."
Listening to the prince's words, the whole
assembly was beside itself with joy. They applauded Bharata's suggestion. The army
and a big retinue were got ready to accompany the prince to the forest. Quickly an army of
workers with their tools went forward to prepare the road. |
