On hearing Bhushundi’s blessed discourse and perceiving love for Rama’s feet, Garuda, now rid of all doubts, replied in endearing terms.

‘Now that I have heard your discourse, imbued with the savour of faith in Raghubira, I have attained the object of my life. My love for Rama’s feet has been renewed and all my troubles created by illusion have disappeared.

You have been a boat to me, drifting as I was in the sea of delusion and have bestowed on me, my lord, manifold blessings. I can in no way requite you (and spill out my gratitude in thanks to you); but again and again I reverence your feet.

A devotee of Rama, you have no wish unfulfilled and are thus so blessed, father, that none can equal you. Saints, trees, rivers, mountains and the earth, all operate for the good of others.

Poets have said that the heart of a saint is as soft as butter, but they have missed the essential truth; for butter melts of its own heat, but the most holy saints melt at others’ trials.

My birth has borne fruit and my life has been rewarded, for by your favour my doubts have disappeared. Regard me ever as your servant.’ So, Uma, spoke the noblest of birds again and again

Lovingly bowing his head before Kakabhushundi’s feet, the resolute Garuda then flew away to Vaikuntha with Raghubira in his heart.