As Bharata was desolately recollecting his dream, the messengers from Ayodhya arrived. Presenting themselves to Bharata, they conveyed Vasishta's message. "Vasishta offers you his salutations and those of the ministers. He wishes your immediate return to Ayodhya, as an urgent matter requires your attention." Bharata enquired of the welfare of Dastaratha, Rama and Lakshmana. "How fares noble mother Kausalya?" Bharata wanted to know, "and what of Sumitra an equally virtuous mother and that irascible, forceful and selfish lady, my mother, in awe of her own intelligence and virtue, which sets her apart".

The messengers assured Bharata that all was well and that they should think of journeying back to Ayodhya. The king of Kekaya tenderly kissed Bharata on his brow blessed him and bade him an affectionate farewell. He also bestowed on his grandson a part of all that he possessed. He gave well-bred elephants, thoroughbred dogs, raised with care in the palace which were as ferocious as tigers. Gold nuggets, woolens, fine clothes, antelope skins along with sixteen thousand horses were added to Bharata's entourage, as also the elephants Airavata and Indrasra, which were presented by Yudhajit. Distinguished counselors were to accompany Bharata, as a mark of respect and honor. Nothing of this pomp or the generous display of his grand father's love for him cheered Bharata nor impressed him, as he was impatient to be on his way. An inexplicable gloom that had settled on him refused to be dispelled.