'King' of Ayodhya
After delivering the painful news of their father's death to Rama and Lakshmana, Bharata argued with Rama to return to Ayodhya as emperor, but the latter steadfastly refused on the grounds that such a deed would be unrighteous. Upon an explanation from King Janaka that since Bharata's love for Rama was unparalleled, it became his duty to enable Rama to live righteously. Bharata gave up his efforts to take Rama back to Ayodhya before the fourteen year exile elapsed. Though deeply disappointed, Bharata returned to Ayodhya after receiving a promise from Rama that he would return promptly at the end of the fourteen year exile and ascend the throne. He vowed to Rama that if Rama did not return immediately when the fourteen years elapsed, he would give his life up by immolation.
He agreed to govern Ayodhya, not as its ruler, but as Rama's representative. The people supported Bharata, as he became the 'king' of Kosala and Ayodhya, but Bharata himself placed Rama's sandals at the foot of the royal throne, and neither sat upon the throne nor crowned himself.
Bharata's reign was righteous and the kingdom was safe and prosperous, but Bharata continuously longed for Rama's return. During this time he did not forgive his mother Kaikeyi, and diligently served Kousalya, Rama's mother, and Sumitra, Lakshmana's mother.
The deep love and esteem that Rama had for Bharata is evident from Rama's declaration that his love for Hanuman was on par with that of his love for Bharata.
Read more about this topic: Bharata (Ramayana)