Bharatha Meets Guha
Guha saw the army camping in the banks of Ganga with tents and said to his relations “ This Army which like a sea is coming towards Sringhibayripura. It is not even possible to imagine. I am able to see the Flag of the Ikshwaku Kings and I am able to see the huge Chariot probably of Bharatha who has bad intellect not only sent Rama to forest and wants to inflict further wounds. Will he imprison us or will he kill us I do not know. If Rama returns after 14 years will he cause damage to his wealth and authority and it is better to kill him when he is alone in forest.; thinking like that , with the natural enmity of Gnyathi (Brothers so same Lineage)must be having hatred towards Rama and coming in search of him. He is afterall the son of Kayikeyei who is wicked. By all accounts It seems he has come to usurp Rama’s fame. Will that be easily possible when I am here? Rama is my protector; my bebefctor; my dear friend; All of you get ready on the banks of Ganga for a battle,so that no danger befalls Rama.Our Hunters to guard the alighting points where Meat, Fruits, Vegetables down loaded form the boats. The Fishermen with weapons with 100 of them be ready in all 500 boats spread all over Ganga. If Bharatah comes with good intentions then these boats will help him cross the Ganga safely. Or else will destroy them here itself.”thus saying took Fish meat, fruits, vegetables as an offering to meet Bharatha.
Sumanthara seeing Guha coming told in humble manner to Bharatha “ Prince ! The person who is coming is the leader of Hunters Guha.; he is old; he was born brought up in Dandakaarnaya Forest and knows all information about it; he is very dear friend of Rama; he is coming with his relations to come and meet you .he knows fully well where abouts of Rama Lakshmana, hence you can meet him.”thus said Sumanthara. Hearing this pleasant words “ Please bring Guha quickly” commanded Bharatha.
Then Guha went with his relations and did namaskar and with humility “ this Country is like the graden of your house.but having paved a path upto Ganga and I was informed of your arrival is said reflection on me. Hence I did not have the opportunity to welcome you properly as per our customs and desire. Nor Was there the time to make such an arrangement. We are your slaves. Where is the ban in living in your in your place? My people have brought fresh and dried up meat, frutis, vegetables with cerals and grains for your consumtion. Please accept same and you and your army can halt tonight here and can travel tomorrow this my humble submission” said Guha.(Slokas 18).
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