66697602-The-Ramayana-R-K-Narayan

higher than a guru.”
Bharatha declared, “This is my vow. I don’t care what
happens. I shall renounce everything and live in the forest
with Rama for fourteen years.”
The gods watched this argument, afraid that if Rama
returned to the kingdom, overwhelmed by the needs of the
country, the purpose of his incarnation would be defeated,
and proclaimed: “Bharatha, go back and rule on Rama’s
behalf for fourteen years.”
There was nothing more to it. Bharatha said, “I have
nothing more to say. I shall rule for fourteen years. But not a
day longer. If you, Rama, do not appear at the end of
fourteen years, I shall immolate myself. Give me your
sandals, please. They will be your symbol, and I shall rule on
behalf of that symbol. I will not re-enter Ayodhya until you
come back, but stay outside the city.”
Bearing Rama’s sandals in his hands, with all reverence,
Bharatha turned back. He established himself in a little
village called Nandigram, on the outskirts of Ayodhya,
installed Rama’s sandals on the throne, and ruled the country
as a regent.