Bharata Performs Dasharatha's Last Rites

"Dear son, your father enjoyed his life and lacked nothing," Kaikeyi answered diplomatically. "He earned great fame and lived a righteous life. All his wishes had come true, and he had nothing more to acquire. He now resides in Svarga and ranks among the gods."

Bharata was shocked to learn that his father was dead. He fell to the ground and started crying bitterly, like a child. "Mother, where is Brother Rama?" he asked. "Now, he is both my father and mentor. I must go and take refuge at his feet."

Kaikeyi initially tried to change the subject, but when Bharata repeatedly asked about Rama, she had no choice but to tell him the truth. She described how she had asked for two boons from King Dasharatha: Ayodhya's throne for Bharata and exile for Rama. Bharata was appalled to learn that he was the reason for Ayodhya's sorrow. Shatrughna, who overheard everything, was also distraught. 

"Selfishness and greed have blinded you, killer of your husband," Bharata harshly told Kaikeyi. "I no longer have a relationship with you."

Maharshis Vashishtha and Vamadeva tried to convince Bharata that he wasn't at fault. "Son Bharata, take courage," they said. "Now you have to administer the last rites of your great father." 

Bharata obeyed the learned sages and bathed his father's body according to Vedic tradition. A sandalwood pyre was laid on the Sarayu riverbank. Dasharatha's body was placed on the pyre and set alight amid Vedic chants and hymns. Bharata prevented the queens from committing sati (self-immolation) so they could welcome Rama when he returned from exile. Shatrughna and all three queens also attended the cremation. Bharata then made substantial donations to the sages and the poor, and everyone prayed that the departed soul might rest in peace.