Rama had a steadfast and loyal friend in Guha, the chief of the hunters’ clan and ruler of a tribal principality. Upon learning that Rama had set foot on his land, Guha, accompanied by his scholars and relatives, hastened to meet him. From a distance, Rama noticed Guha approaching and, together with Lakshmana, went forward to welcome the tribal king.
Guha, deeply moved by Rama’s plight, expressed his displeasure at the injustice that had befallen him. He said, “O Rama, this land is like Ayodhya for you. Every soul here stands at your command. How could I fail to honor a guest of your exalted stature? Tell me, what service can I render? I have brought a variety of foods and fragrant offerings, all chosen to suit the finest tastes. This entire land is yours. We are but executors of your will. Rule over us as you deem fit. Food for you, your people, and even your horses has been arranged.”
Hearing these words, Rama replied, “O noble Guha, your heartfelt gestures of friendship have deeply pleased me. I am grateful for your unwavering loyalty. My joy at meeting you and your people is immeasurable. Your safety, health, and welfare gladden my heart. However, as per my vow, I am not in a position to accept anything. Dressed in ascetic attire, I abide by the strict code of fasting. I humbly request only provisions for my horses, beloved by my father, King Dasaratha. Caring for them is akin to honoring me.”
At Rama’s request, Guha immediately commanded his people to provide water and food for the horses. Thereafter, Rama performed his evening salutations to the setting sun and took water for the day. He and Sita lay down to rest on grass mats, while Lakshmana and Guha, armed with bows, kept vigil throughout the night.
Despite his valor and composure, Rama, unused to such austere arrangements, found the night long and uneasy. Observing this, Guha, with a plain heart, said to Lakshmana, who remained alert, “O Lakshmana, this comfortable cot has been prepared for you. Rest and sleep at ease. I will guard meticulously through the night. Unlike you, we are born to toil and are accustomed to hardship, we have grown in comfort. Do not refuse; I owe it to Rama to take on your duties tonight. Trust us, for nothing is more precious to us than Rama’s safety. By the grace of Rama, even if an army fourfold in strength confronts us, they are destined to fail.”
Lakshmana replied, “O Guha, noble king of the tribes, we are fearless under your watchful care. Yet how can I sleep when Sita and Rama lie on the bare ground? Behold the conqueror of Devas and Asuras, resting on grass with an unshaken mind. His resilience, grace, and adherence to his vows are unmatched. It is my great fortune to serve him. My comfort lies not in rest but in ensuring his safety.”
Lakshmana continued, his voice filled with sorrow and reflection. “Rama, the dearest son of King Dasaratha, embodies every virtue. He is incomparable in grace, balance, and courtesy. Yet how can Dasaratha endure Rama’s absence? Ayodhya, once replete with contentment, is now steeped in despair. The silence of my father for but a moment has plunged the kingdom into turmoil. The city, a treasure of virtues and a haven of peace, is now fraught with insecurity. Its people, loyal and noble, must feel as if their very lifeblood has been drained by Rama’s departure. My heart aches for their plight and for my mother Kausalya, whose strength and hope rest upon me. I wonder, when our exile ends, will Ayodhya remain the same? Will the king still endure?”
As Lakshmana shared his thoughts with Guha, the night passed unnoticed. Guha, struck by Lakshmana’s depth and sensitivity, grew ever more devoted to Rama’s service.
At the break of dawn, Rama rose and observed the sweet calls of the koel mingling with the shrill notes of peacocks carried by the morning breeze. He turned to Lakshmana, saying, “It is time to cross the Ganga.” Guha and Sumantra, standing ready, awaited Rama’s guidance for the next leg of their journey.
