‘Do not play me false, brothers; there is a great issue before me today.’ At this the gallant warriors spiritedly exclaimed, ‘Have no fear, our brave chieftain!

By the majesty of Rama and your might, my lord, we shall leave no fighting man or horse in the enemy’s ranks; we shall never retrace our steps while yet we live, but shall strew the earth with trunks and heads!’

Observing the gallant band of warriors before him, the Nishada chief exclaimed, ‘Beat the martial drum.’ Even as he said so, someone sneezed on the left. The soothsayers said, ‘The sneeze has come from an auspicious quarter;’

An old man, reflecting on the omen, exclaimed, ‘Let us go and meet Bharata; there will be no battle. Bharata is out to persuade Rama to return; the omen tells us that there will be no fighting’.

On hearing this, Guha said, ‘The old man has spoken well; fools act in haste and repent thereafter; if we fight without first knowing Bharata’s intentions and ascertaining his temper and disposition, we shall be doing much harm to our cause.

Close up, all my warriors, and make a blockade around the river bank while I go to meet Bharata and find out his intention. When I have ascertained his friendly, hostile or neutral attitude, I shall return and plan accordingly.

If he is devoted to Rama, I shall discover it from his charming disposition; for hatred and love cannot be hid even if one tries to do so.’ So saying, he began to prepare a present and sent for bulbs, roots and fruit as well as birds and deer.