Bharata left for Dandaka forest with an entire army of elephants, horses cavalry and priests to find Rama. When he saw Rama, he ran to him and begged forgiveness for his mother's behaviour and informed Rama about Dasaratha's death. The news greatly saddened Rama, Laxmana, and Sita. Then, Bharata pleaded, "I have come on behalf of the people of Ayodhya. Please accept the throne which lies empty without you." Rama answered, "I am only fulfilling our parents' wish." Bharata realised that Rama would not return to Ayodhya and said that he would place Rama's sandals. Bharata went back to Ayodhya and placed Rama's sandals on the throne.