In the verdant depths of Dandakarnaya, Rama beheld the demoness Surphanaka, her demeanour fiery and untamed. Though born of noble lineage, she was consumed by desire and infatuation, her steps guided by the shadowy
path of demonic impulses. Yet Rama, serene and composed, his natural dignity unshaken, addressed her with a tranquil smile, his words pure and unwavering:
“O venerable lady, know this: I am bound by sacred vows to Sita, my devoted wife. No righteous woman shares her husband with another, for such an act defies virtue. My principles forbid the union
more than one wife. My truth lies with Sita, and so your solemn regret, I must reject your proposal.
Rama’s words were not merely an assertion of fidelity but a test of his Brother Lakshman’s steadfastness and celibacy, as well as a subtle lesson to Sita.
Strategically, he sought to deflect Suruhanjaya’s infatuation, directing her towards Lakshmana. “My brother is young, strong, and equally noble. Seek him, for he might be companion your desire.”
Obsessed and blinded by her desires, Surphanaka approached Lakshmana with honeyed words’ son of Sumitra, with your fairness and dominant features, I am your match. Take my hand, and together let us explore the mysteries of this vast wilderness.”
Lakshmana, adept in the art of speech responded with a playful smile veiling disdain lady of formidable strength and freedom, your independence and Power render you unsuitable for subservience. I am but a humble servant of Rama. Any who join me must share this servitude. Such bondage is unworthy of one as sovereign as you. Seek a worthier path.”
Yet her persistence
Within his presence. With a hint of humour, Lakshmana advised, “Only Rama can grant solace. Approach him again, for his decision is final. Perhaps he might reconsider”.
Surphanaka harbouring a cruel resolve, returned to Rama. Her envy ignited as she beheld Sita’s ethereal beauty. “You rejected me for this mortal woman.? Her beauty faded, while mine endured. I am beyond her in power
Lineage, and might. Choose me, and abandon her. “Raging, her fury unrestrained, she lunged at Sita with murderous intent…But, Rama, swift and resolute, intervened. With a commanding voice, he ordered Lakshmana to drive her away. When she attacked Lakshmana in a frenzied scuffle, he mutilated her and forced her to retreat. Enraged and humiliated, she fled to the court of her cousin demon Khara, painting a vivid and fabricated tale of her ordeal.
Khara half-brother of Ravana listened, his fury kindled, “Who dares humiliate you? Speak, and they shall not see the sunset. No force in heaven or earth can withstand my wrath. Point me towards the audacious mortals who dared defy our might”.
With tears feigned and vengeance seething, Surphanaka named Rama and Lakshmana describing their royal
bearing and ascetic guise. “They guard a mortal woman, their beauty and valour mocking the might of demons. Their arrogance must be punished.”
Khara, incensed, summoned fourteen fierce warriors. “Go with Surphanaka.slay the intruders and avenge this insult.”
Guided by Surphanaka, the demons descended upon the forest asrama where Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana resided. Rama, perceiving their approach, instructed Lakshmana, “Guard Sita. I shall face these fiends.”
Armed with his bow, he addressed the demons:
“We are Rama and Lakshmana, sons of Dasaratha, living a life of ascetic simplicity. Why do you disturb our peace? Leave, or face your doom.”
The demons, Undeterred, launched their attack. But Rama’s arrows, swift and sure, felled each one like mighty trees in storm. Their bodies lay shattered, their ferocity silenced. Surphanaka, aghast at the scene, fled to Khara, wailing of their defeat.
“The sons of Dasaratha are no mere mortals. Their might has vanquished your warriors. The prophecy of sage Agastya begins to unfold. The cosmic balance shifts, and the stage is set for the great conflict between humans and demons.”
Thus, the wheel of destiny turned, heralding the grand design of the universe, where divine order would prevail over chaos.
