In their journey through the dense wilderness, Rama and his companions arrived at a place teeming with life. The earth seemed alive with serpents, their scales glinting like polished gems, slithering and hissing amidst the underbrush. Majestic elephants, intoxicated by the bounties of nature, roamed freely, their playful strides a testament to the abundance that surrounded them. Here, every tree and plant had grown to extraordinary proportions, nourished by the pure, untainted greenery and the crystalline waters of the land, which sparkled like liquid diamonds under the sun’s golden rays.
“O Lakshmana,” spoke Rama, his voice imbued with reverence, “we have reached the sacred Panchavati, as foretold by the venerable sage Agastya. Observe keenly, and with your discerning eye, select a place most suitable for our hermitage. Let it be a haven where the forest’s beauty unfolds before us, a space even and vibrant, suitable for our holy rituals. Ensure the presence of sacred grass, abundant flowers and fruits, and provisions of roots and tubers. Seek also a steady flow of water, be it a serene pond or a sacred lake, whose essence resonates with divine vibrations.”
Lakshmana, bowing with folded hands, replied with humility, “O noble brother and lord, I am but your devoted servant. Your will is my command. Kindly choose the place, and I shall ensure its transformation into a fitting abode for our ascetic life.”
Rama, with Sita by his side, surveyed the enchanting surroundings. His gaze fell upon a spot where nature seemed to conspire in divine harmony. Taking Lakshmana’s hand, he declared, “O noble brother, this place shall serve us well. The air is gentle, and the land is even. The flowers bloom with unmatched radiance, and the lush foliage spreads its emerald embrace. Build our hermitage here, a sanctuary in the heart of this pristine wilderness.”
The chosen site was graced by a tranquil lake, its surface adorned with lotuses that smiled at the sun and lilies that danced in the gentle ripples. The waters reflected hues of crimson and ivory, casting a spell of ethereal beauty. “This lake,” Rama continued, “will soothe Sita’s soul, lifting the weariness of our forest sojourn. See how the Godavari flows gracefully, its banks alive with joyous swans, playful waterfowl, and flocks of skybirds. The deer, unafraid, approach Sita, forming bonds as though they have known her forever.”
Majestic mountains loomed in the distance, their peaks veiled in mist. Herds of elephants, stags, and wild boars roamed in disciplined harmony, their movements a symphony of nature’s rhythm. Streams cascaded down the slopes, their sparkling waters scattering sunlit droplets in a rainbow-like display as if the heavens themselves had descended to adorn the earth. Rama marveled at the scenery, likening the mounds to stationary elephants, frozen by the hand of a celestial sculptor.
“Lakshmana,” Rama said, “this sacred land, filled with divine splendor, shall be our home until I fulfill my vows. The sage Agastya’s blessings have guided us to this haven. See how the fragrant breeze flows through these silver and golden gates of nature, carrying the bounties of this paradise. Begin the construction of our hermitage with care, ensuring it aligns with the Vedic principles.”
Lakshmana, driven by devotion, erected the hermitage with meticulous precision. A sturdy mud platform was raised, poles were secured with fibers of the sacred jammi tree, and the roof was covered with palmyra and banyan leaves. A sacred fireplace was built, and spaces for rest, worship, and hospitality were designated. After completing the dwelling, Lakshmana bathed in the Godavari, offering lotus flowers and lilies for worship, and brought fruits and roots for sustenance.
When all was ready, Rama entered with Sita, blessing the hermitage with his presence. “Lakshmana,” he said with deep affection, “your dedication and efficiency are unparalleled. Your loyalty and insight bring strength to my resolve. With your support, I shall fulfill the promise made to our father.”
As night fell, the trio rested in their new abode, the harmony of the forest serving as their lullaby. Thus, their journey, woven with divine grace and bound by cosmic destiny, continued its unfolding in the sacred realm of Panchavati.
