Word

Bharatha , brother of Sri Rama

Sanskrit

भरत

IAST

bharata

In General

Son of Dasaratha and brother of Sri Rama. It is the decision of Bharatha not to accept the throne of Ayodhya made the epic Ramayana an unparallel saga of four brothers trusting each other and loving. Bharatha is very truthful, dharmic, brave and devoted to his brother Rama. He led the life of an ascetic during the 14 year period Rama was in exile. Bharatha was a strict ruler and able administrator. He ruled the country on behalf of Sri Rama. He made the wealth of Ayodhya many times more and told this to Rama when Rama returned to Ayodhya after the exile life.

Purana

When Dasaratha decided to install Sri Rama as crown prince Bharatha was in Kekeya Rajya under the care of his uncle Yuyutsu.

Mantara, an aunt of Kaikeyi nurtured a feeling in Kaikeyi that she and her son Bharatha will be neglected if Rama came to power. Mantara induced Kaikeyi to ask for the two boons that king promised her long back. Accordingly Kaikeyi asked Dasaratha to make her son Bharata, the crown prince and exile Rama for fourteen years' life in forest. The king fainted when he heard the demand. Rama came forward to protect the word Dasharatha given to Kaikeyi and left the palace for forest. Lakshmana and Sita followed Rama. Unable to control the sorrow of separation Dasaratha died. When Bharatha returned to Ayodhya immediately after the demise of Dasaratha, he felt sorry for his mother’s decision. Bharatha declined to become king and scolded his mother with very cruel words for doing the notorious act.

Bharatha then went to forest along with Kausalya, Sumitra, Vasistha and other noble persons to offer Rama the kingdom and bring him back. But Rama refused as it will be against Dharma and asked Bharatha to take the rein of the country. Bharatha was also not in the mood to accept this request. At last Bharata yielded to Rama's injunction and returned to Ayodhya with the latter's sandals to be placed on the throne. Bharata lead an ascetic life and stayed in a hut.

Baratha once lead army to the bank of Sindu, captured the entire area as advised by Rama and developed that part of territory.