Now, all the people were seated, eagerly awaiting the announcement of Emperor Bindusar regarding the succession of Susima as the next emperor of the Maurya dynasty, a powerful dynasty that ruled over Bharat.
As Bindusar looked at his son, memories flooded his mind, from Susima's childhood to the policies he had proposed and the changes he had brought to the business world, empowering the poor and marginalized to find ways to earn money. This had not only increased the empire's wealth but also allowed them to dominate the economies of other countries solely through their output.
Bindusar couldn't fathom how his son had achieved all this, but he was immensely proud and confident that Susima would take the empire to unimaginable heights.
After pondering over these thoughts, Bindusar finally addressed his son, asking, "Crown Prince, what are your thoughts on Bharat?"
Upon hearing this question, everyone understood that this was the ultimate test for Susima.
After hearing these questions, he closed his eyes, preparing to give a thoughtful and ordinary response. However, he couldn't contain himself any longer. He felt an overwhelming urge to express all the emotions he had towards Bharat.
Once he comprehended everything he wanted to convey, he slowly opened his eyes and gazed into his father's eyes. With a surge of confidence, he began to speak loudly, proclaiming his deep love and compassion for Bharat.
"Bharat is a living, breathing entity, pulsating with the heartbeat of its people. It is a nation that thrives on diversity and unity, where languages, traditions, and faiths intermingle harmoniously. It is a tapestry woven with the threads of countless civilizations, each contributing to the rich fabric of Bharat's heritage.
Bharat is a land of compassion and service, where the concept of "seva" or selfless service is deeply ingrained in its culture. It is a land where the welfare of others is considered a sacred duty, and where individuals strive to alleviate the suffering of their fellow beings.
In the realm of knowledge, Bharat shines as a guiding light for seekers and scholars alike. Its ancient texts, such as the Vedas and Upanishads, hold timeless wisdom and philosophical insights that continue to inspire and enlighten. From the great universities of Takshashila to the new institutions of learning, Bharat has always fostered a deep reverence for education and the pursuit of truth.
But Bharat's significance extends far beyond intellectual pursuits. It is a land that nurtures and sustains, feeding not only the bodies but also the souls of its inhabitants. From the fertile plains of Punjab to the bountiful forests of Kerala, Bharat's agricultural prowess is unmatched. It is a provider of nourishment, not only for its own people, but also for the world, as it exports its abundance to distant shores.
Yet, Bharat is more than just a physical landscape. It is a sacred pilgrimage site for countless spiritual seekers. The banks of the Ganges, the temples of Varanasi, and the sacred mountains of the Himalayas beckon those in search of divine enlightenment. Here, the mortal and the divine coexist, blurring the lines between the material and the spiritual. Bharat is a sanctuary where the ethereal and the tangible intertwine, offering solace and transcendence to all who enter its sacred spaces.
Like a magnificent golden bird, Bharat is adorned with numerous titles and honors. It is the land of the Vedas, the birthplace of great sages and saints. Its contributions to the world in the fields of mathematics, astronomy, and medicine have been celebrated for centuries. Bharat is a beacon of inspiration, an example to the world of what can be achieved when the human spirit is nourished by knowledge and guided by righteousness.
But even with all its grandeur and majesty, the true essence of Bharat remains elusive. It is a mystery that even the deities themselves struggle to comprehend. Its vastness and profundity defy ordinary understanding. Yet, it is the people of Bharat who embody the essence of their motherland. They carry within them the light of seekers and the light of knowledge, illuminate the world."
After a few minutes, Bindusar returned to his senses and glanced at his son before uttering his words.
"My son, your words have opened my eyes to a truth I had long overlooked," Bindusar began, his voice filled with a newfound clarity. "I have been so consumed with the power and expansion of the Maurya dynasty that I failed to see the true essence of Bharat. It is not the dynasty that defines our nation, but rather the nation that defines the dynasty."
The hall remained silent, the air heavy with anticipation as Bindusar continued to address his son. "You have shown me that Bharat is not just a land to be conquered and ruled, but a living, breathing entity that deserves our utmost respect and care. It is our duty as rulers to nurture and protect Bharat, to ensure its prosperity and well-being for generations to come."
Chanakya, who had been observing the exchange with a knowing smile, nodded in approval. He had always believed in the potential of this young prince, and now, his faith was being rewarded.
Bindusar's voice grew stronger as he spoke, his words resonating with the hearts of all those present. "From this day forward, I vow to prioritize the welfare of Bharat above all else. I will work tirelessly to unite our people, to foster peace and harmony, and to create a nation that shines as a beacon of light for the world to see."
The silence in the hall was broken by a thunderous applause, as the people recognized the sincerity and determination in their emperor's words. They had witnessed a transformative moment, a turning point in the history of Bharat.
Bindusar turned to his son, his eyes filled with pride and love. "You have shown me the true meaning of leadership, my son. I am grateful for your wisdom and courage. Together, we shall build a Bharat that will be remembered for centuries to come."
After uttering those words, Bindusara proceeded to walk towards his son, Susima.
With those words, father and son embraced, their bond strengthened by a shared purpose and a shared vision for the future of Bharat.
And following that, he returned to his abode and announced in a resounding voice, "Now, after me, the next ruler of the Maurya dynasty, no, the next ruler of Bharat will be my son, Susima. He will guide the people of Bharat towards a better and prosperous life."
Now, Susima will assume control of this Empire. Once we find an auspicious day, we will crown him as the emperor, and I will also support him in making Bharat a blessing for the world.