In the depths of the sacred Dandakarnaya forest, the noble and indomitable Prince Rama ventured alongside Sita and Lakshmana. Their journey brought them to a cluster of hermitages, a network of sanctuaries enveloped by serene nature. Around each ashram, white linen garments hung on tree branches to dry in the sunlight, appearing like clouds veiling the celestial Sun, Moon, and stars.
Majestic peepal trees towered over the area, with brick platforms beneath them where sages gathered to discuss the profound intricacies of Vedic rituals. The tools of these Vedic practices -wooden ladles, caskets, and bowls scented with the purity of ghee-hung delicately on flowering bushes, blending seamlessly with vibrant blossoms. stacks of holy darbha grass lay before the hermitages, sanctifying the grounds, while sacrificial fires burned steadily, emitting fragrant blue rays.
The forest teemed with life. Hares and deer frolicked joyously, enhancing the sanctity of the atmosphere. Harmless animals roamed freely, while birds flitted above, occasionally parching playfully on the backs of beasts. The lush trees bent under the weight of their fruits, offering an abundance that spoke of nature’s boundless generosity. A gentle breeze wove through bamboo grooves and tree tops, carrying a soothing melody that resonated with the soul.
Amid this harmony, the Vedic hymns chanted by sages echoed like celestial music, infusing the air with divine purpose. Nearby, streams glided softly, adorned with lotuses and lilies, their pollen forming golden carpets upon the waters. Ascetic and disciplined sages followed varied rituals -some subsisting on fallen fruits, others on roots and barks-each immersed in the chosen path, yet united in their commitment to truth, Non-violence, and compassion.
When Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana entered this divine sanctuary, they were enraptured by its sanctity. They approached the Kulapathi, the revered head of hermitages, who radiated wisdom like the morning sun. Rama set his bow on a brick Dias, followed by Lakshmana, while Sita respectfully moved toward the sacred fire. The sages in awe of the trio’s luminous presence extended a warm welcome to the virtuous prince, his loyal brother, and the graceful Sita.
The Kulapathi addressed Rama with reverence, declaring, O” Prince, you embody the virtues of Kingship. A king is the protector of all beings, whether in town, village, or forest. we, being ascetics, conquer anger and embrace peace. Thus, you must safeguard us,as a mother protects her unborn child”
That night, the trio rested in the hermitage, enjoying the hospitality of the sages. At, dawn, they completed their rituals and ventured deeper in to the forest. The scenery grew ominous and the trees shed their leaves, bushes bristled with thorns and parched earth stretched endlessly. wild animals roamed freely, their cries blending with the buzzing of the flies, creating a foreboding symphony.
Amid this desolation, they encountered a fearsome Demon, Viradha. His grotesque form loomed large belly round like jagged weapons dripping with blood. Draped in tiger skin, with a metal spike slung over his shoulder bearing the remains of his prey, he advanced towards them with a thunderous roar. The demon snatched Sita, holding her in his massive palm like a delicate flower. His voice boomed, “You ascetics, defying the code of your path, wander with a woman in this forest! I am Viradha, move in this wilderness, and I shall consume you both.!”
Sita trembled in terror, her distress piercing Rama’s heart. Overwhelmed with anguish, Rama lamented the unfolding calamity, blaming Kaikeyi’s schemes for their exile. Lakshmana, seething with rage, retorted, “you are the lord of the universe, equal to Indra. Do not grieve like a mere mortal. Let me end this wretch’s life with my arrows, and he shall soon crumble to the ground.”
The confrontation marked the beginning of Rama’s journey into the trials that would shape his destiny. Each step forward unveiled the purpose of his divine birth, setting in motion events that would resonate through the ages. Thus began the unfolding of a saga destined to illuminate the path of righteousness for the world.