Sage Agastya, with a voice imbued with wisdom, addressed Rama, saying, “O noble scion of the Raghu dynasty! I am deeply pleased by the humility and virtuous conduct exhibited by you and your companions. You have undertaken a long and arduous journey to seek my blessings, a testament to your dedication. However, I perceive that Janaka’s daughter, Sita, is weary from the journey. She is delicate, unaccustomed to the hardships of the wilderness, yet she has chosen to accompany you out of her steadfast love and devotion. This act of renunciation, where she has forsaken wealth and comfort to traverse the desolate forest, is unparalleled. None but her could exhibit such devotion.
Rama, it is your duty to care for her with utmost attentiveness. In the earliest days of creation, women partook in both joy and wealth, yet faltered during adversity. Their nature has been compared to the transient flashes of thunderbolts, the sharpness of fine blades, and the swiftness of the wind. Yet Sita, your noble consort, is an exception, free from such inconsistencies. Her virtues are akin to those of the revered Arundhati Devi. O Rama, terror to wrongdoers! Wherever you dwell with Sita and Lakshmana, the sanctity and worth of that place are immeasurably enhanced.”
Hearing this, Rama, with hands folded in reverence, responded to the sage, “O luminous one, your words of satisfaction regarding Sita and my brother fill my heart with gratitude. I am blessed to bask in the glow of your kindness. Pray, guide us to a suitable place where we may build a hermitage, rich in natural resources and conducive to meditation and ascetic practices.”
After a moment of contemplation, Sage Agastya said, “About fifteen miles from here lies a serene and beautiful region known as Panchavati. It is abundant with fruits, roots, flowers, and pure water. You can fulfill your vows and complete the remainder of your forest exile there. This place is free from human interference, and its natural beauty will provide comfort to Sita. The flowing waters of the Godavari will refresh her spirit, while the herds of deer and vibrant birdlife will bring her joy. O Rama, the latter part of your forest sojourn can be completed in this divine spot, after which you may return to Ayodhya to rule as per the noble traditions of your ancestors.
However, know this—I would have wished for you to remain with me, but destiny dictates otherwise. Hence, I direct you towards Panchavati. Proceed northward, through the Madhuka forest, past the grand Peepal tree, and towards the mountain. There, you shall find the enchanting Panchavati forest.”
Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana offered their respects and sought the sage’s permission to depart. Their spirits were emboldened by his guidance and the divine weapons he bestowed upon them. As they journeyed towards their destination, their demeanor reflected the resolve and readiness befitting warriors.
On the way, they encountered a majestic eagle perched on a towering Peepal tree. Mistaking it for a demon, Rama questioned, “Who are you, O bird of imposing stature?” The bird, in a gentle tone, replied, “Rama, I am Jatayu, a loyal friend of King Dasaratha. Allow me to narrate the ancient lineage of creation and my own origins.”
Jatayu recounted the tale of the Prajapatis, the celestial progenitors, and the vast lineage of beings birthed by them. He spoke of gods, giants, birds, animals, and serpents, weaving a tapestry of creation’s intricate design. Finally, he revealed, “O Rama, I am the son of Aruna, and my brother is Sampati. If you permit, I shall serve as your guardian in this forest, protecting Sita while you and Lakshmana are away.”
Deeply moved by Jatayu’s noble offer, Rama expressed his gratitude and continued his journey to Panchavati, accompanied by Sita, Lakshmana, and their newfound ally, Jatayu. Thus, the course of destiny unfolded, guided by the cosmic design, as the trio prepared for the trials ahead in the sacred and resplendent forest of Panchavati.
