Returning to Ayodhya, Bharata and Satrughana stopped at the
gates of the city.
There was no light, no music or anyone to greet them. The city looked
lifeless. Fearing some misfortune had fallen, they rushed towards the
palace.
Bharata entered King Dasaratha's chamber, but found it empty. Anxious,
he ran to Kaikeyi's room. Seeing her, he exclaimed in joy and enquired
about his father and brother Rama's whereabouts.
Kaikeyi avoided his questions, but seeing him grow restless, she told
him that Dasaratha was dead and Rama was in exile. Now Bharata would be
king.
When Bharata came to know the entire story, he became very angry. He
told Kaikeyi that Rama was the rightful king. Bharata fell at Kausalya's
feet crying and asked forgiveness for his mother's deceit .
Bharata then performed his father's last rites and made preparations to
get Rama back .
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