" Now I invite you to return to Ayodhya and take the reigns in your hand. O brother, our father could not bear the separation from you and has left for heavenly abode. We have all become orphans now; your return is the only saving grace now. Otherwise everything is like food without salt."
Everyone was watching with dismay and respect the meeting of these two brothers. Nowhere on the earth such brotherly love was ever witnessed nor would be seen in future, they thought. Ram lifted the bent down Bharat, took him to his breast again and consolingly said,
"My dear brother, why do you also behave like common folk? Where has your bravery, discrimination, and self confidence vanished! Why do you think this to be hour of crisis? No my dear, this is not any crisis. The destiny should never be mistaken for tragedy."
"First of all you must never utter a single word against mother Kaikeyi. She is a lady of great honour and judgment. She has not committed any crime, he is not a sinner as you mistakenly believe. She has done a great favour to Ayodhya and mankind which will be revealed to you and others during these fourteen years."
"Yes, these fourteen years are offered to me by her to spread my kingdom of peace, equality and social justice. Even though ordinary folks may rebuke her for her actions, the wise and learned would bow down to her in reverence for the unparalleled opportunity she opened up for me to establish the rule of Dharma!"
"Hence do not grieve. Go back to Ayodhya and rule as a noble, wise, and a kind king for the welfare of all irrespective of caste and social status. See that injustice is firmly handled with a blend of kindness. Ensure that aspirations of all are fulfilled."
Gradually Bharat could see reason. The rule of heart shifted to rule of intellect. He took a vow in front of Ram and others, saying, "O Ram, I agree with what you said. but remember, I will take care of Ayodhya on your behalf from my ashram in a nearby village. The throne will be decorated with the wooden sandals of your feet which I beg you to give to me. I refuse to enter Ayodhya till your return after fourteen years. If you fail to show up after fourteen years I will immolate myself on the burning pyre."
When it was found that the resolve of Bharat was final, Ram agreed to his conditions and gave away his wooden shoes to Bharat who carried them on his head to Ayodhya.'
