All the warriors gladly accepted Jambavantha’s wise advice — that their next action must follow the will of Rama. With that decision made, they immediately set off on their mission.
Led by the mighty son of Vayu, Hanuman, the great vanaras soared into the sky with excitement and purpose. Their enormous forms seemed to cover the heavens. Every eye was fixed on Hanuman, the noble one — intelligent, honest, virtuous, and fully devoted. His presence seemed to float before them like a guiding light.
Their hearts burned with one goal — to fulfill Rama’s task and win everlasting glory. Their minds were fixed on Kishkindha, counting the moments to bring back news of Sita.
Though ready for battle against Ravana’s forces, they restrained themselves, honoring Rama’s dignity and awaiting his command before returning. Their flight was swift, and soon they landed in Madhuvan — the lush royal grove of Sugreeva, guarded by the mighty warrior Dadhimukha, Sugreeva’s maternal uncle.
Madhuvan was a paradise, rich with fruits, juices, honey, wines, and liquors brewed from herbs and fruits. It was a place of rest for Sugreeva and his queen.
The vanaras, filled with joy, asked Angada for permission to feast. The prince agreed without hesitation. At once, they dove into celebration — eating, drinking, dancing, jumping, and playing wildly. They snapped branches, plucked pods, and hurled giant jackfruits through the air. Some splashed in ponds, swimming and soaking one another, creating a delightful chaos.
When guards tried to stop them, the vanaras paid no heed. They tossed their weapons into the water. Some climbed hills, some swung from tree to tree, some mock-fought, shouted, laughed, wobbled, spun — performing every possible monkey trick. A few just sat and watched, enjoying the spectacle. One sang a song while others joined in chorus. Some cried out in joy, and soon the whole grove echoed with their wild celebration.
Seeing things spiral out of control, Dadhimukha tried to step in. But the vanaras gently lifted him and placed him outside the garden. Realizing the presence of great warriors like Angada, Hanuman, and Jambavantha, Dadhimukha wisely decided not to summon his troops. He paused, thinking it best to wait.
Meanwhile, Hanuman reassured the vanaras, “Fear not. Eat, drink, and enjoy freely. I am here — none shall harm you.” Encouraged by his words, the vanaras dove back into celebration with even greater joy.
Angada, deeply grateful, expressed his thanks to Hanuman, whose excellence none could match. The younger vanaras played close to Angada, as if they would never get such a chance again. Some, drunk with wine and honey, tossed remaining pots over each other’s heads. Some anointed one another with honey, some bathed, some floated in the ponds with pots balanced on their heads. The elder warriors watched with smiles, amused by the joyful madness.
The guards withdrew to a distance, fearing more trouble if they interfered. Even the gods dared not touch Madhuvan, for Sugreeva held it dear.
But Dadhimukha knew this chaos must be reported. This grove was more precious to Sugreeva than anything else. With resolve, he made his way to the son of the Sun — Sugreeva — who was seated beside Rama and Lakshmana. Dadhimukha approached them with folded hands, ready to tell all.
