Lakshman Rao
Rama and his brothers, along with the gathered guests, were astonished at the remarkable tale of Vali and Sugreeva. In this moment of wonder, the revered sage Narada arrived, and Rama greeted him with the utmost respect. “O Brahma Rishi,” Rama began, “we understand that Surya and Indra were destined to play key roles in the destruction of Ravana and his demonic forces.”
The sage, with a serene countenance, replied, “O great king Rama, I shall recount to you an ancient story. Listen closely and with attention.
Once, Ravana beheld Sanathkumara, the all-powerful son of Brahma, seated in quiet meditation at a serene spot on Mount Meru. The sage, brilliant like the sun, sat in deep contemplation. With hands folded in humility, Ravana approached him and prayed, ‘O revered sage, enlighten me. Under whose influence do the gods always emerge victorious in battles? Who is the mightiest of all gods? And who, O venerable one, do the Brahmins forever worship? On which god do yogis meditate?’
The sage, sensing Ravana’s concealed motives, paused in thought and then spoke. ‘Know this, O Ravana: Lord Vishnu is the supreme God, unknowable in origin. Every day, gods, demons, sages, and even men worship Him. All-powerful, He dwells in the ocean and lies upon the serpent’s bed. Merely uttering His name washes away all sins. From His navel springs the lotus that gives birth to Brahma, the creator of the universe. Scholars and sages aspire to reach His abode, blessed with His mercy. Every living being knows Hari as the all-powerful God. The ways prescribed in the Shruti and Smriti are meant to please Him. Demons, giants, yakshas, kinnara, nagas, and all creatures seek His grace through sincere devotion.’
Ravana, humbled and attentive, inquired further, ‘O Maharishi, what becomes of kings, demons, and giants slain by Vishnu? Where do they go after their defeat?’
The sage replied, ‘Those slain by the gods ascend to heaven without doubt. After serving their time there, driven by the force of their deeds, they are reborn upon the earth. Even when Vishnu lays His hand in anger, it is a boon, securing a place in heaven. Yet, none can escape the cycle of birth and rebirth, especially those who oppose Vishnu.’
The wrong-minded Ravana, intent on challenging Hari, was interrupted by the sage, who said, ‘Your desire will be fulfilled in time. Wait patiently, O Ravana, best of demons. You wish to confront Hari? I shall tell you of His whereabouts. He is everywhere—on earth, in the sky, in water, fire, and heaven. In forests, rivers, and mountains, His presence pervades all. He is the embodiment of Om, the truth itself. He is the sun, the reptiles, the power of lions and elephants. He is day and night, twilight and darkness. Yama, the moon, time, fire, Brahma, Rudra, and Indra—all are His manifestations. He is the ancient, indestructible One, who creates and dismantles, protects and destroys. Why speak more? In a single word, He is omnipresent and omnipotent.’
‘He is the beauty in the clouds and thunder, blue in complexion, with eyes like lotus petals. He bears the mark of Srivatsa upon His chest and holds Lakshmi in Her victorious form by His side. Every moment, she shines upon Him like lightning with a cloud. Gods, demons, giants, and serpents cannot see Him unless He chooses to reveal Himself. Yajnas, penance, and charity cannot make Him easily accessible. Only those who surrender fully to Him, who fill their thoughts, words, and deeds with His presence, can reach Him with ease. Simplicity is the path to Him.’
The sage then paused before continuing, ‘O king of demons, if you are still eager to learn, heed my words carefully. After the passage of Krita Yuga, during the advent of Treta Yuga, Hari will be born upon the earth in the illustrious line of the Ikshvakus. To uplift humanity, assist the gods, and vanquish demons, He will assume human form as the son of King Dasaratha, known as Rama. His brilliance will rival Indra’s, His wisdom will be like that of Brihaspati, His valour will equal that of Shiva, His precision will match Yama’s, and His patience will be as vast as the earth itself.’
‘In battle, Narayana will stand as Rama, with invincible strength and righteousness. Lakshmi, in the form of Sita, will be His consort, born of the earth and raised by the sage-king Janaka. Her beauty surpasses that of the divine, and she embodies all virtues. She is meant solely for Rama, as light is for the sun.’
‘O Ravana, I have revealed to you, as promised, the nature of the eternal and indestructible God of gods, Hari. Ravana, knowing this, deliberately chose to stir enmity with you, O Rama. Having heard every word of Sanathkumara, Ravana provoked all toward war.’
Rama, marvelling at this ancient tale, requested Narada to continue the story on the following day. With that, all retired to their quarters, their minds deep in thought.”
