Mainak

The ocean thought he needed to do something. It was an ancestor of Rama, who had got Ganga down and formed the great Sagara. It would be a shame if a messenger of Rama was not served. He thought he would help Hanumana, who would be tired. He thought he would have to do something  to take  Hanumana  forward, in the rest of his journey. The Ocean called the mountain Mainak, son of Himalaya, to come to him. He asked him to go on surface of the ocean and help Hanumana.

Hanumana saw the mountain rising out of the ocean. He wondered what obstacle was coming his way. Taking a human form, the mountain said he had come to help Hanumana and was requesting him to rest for a while. He said on him, he had trees with fruits and water in lakes to drink and Hanumana could refresh himself and then the mountain would take him to the shores of Lanka.

Hanumana asked the mountain why he was in the waters. Mainak said, long back the mountains had wings and they could fly where ever they wanted to. They developed a destructive attitude and would purposefully fall down, thus destroying many houses which were on the mountains.

Indra seeing this, destroyed the wings of the mountains. All wings were destroyed except that of Mainak. When Indra came to cut off Mainak's wings, Vayu taking pity on Mainak, threw him in the ocean and hid him there.

As Hanumana was a son of Vayu, the mountain, grateful to Vayu, wanted to help Hanumana.

Hanumana said while he would have wanted to rest, he was bound by a promise and also did not much time. To show his gratitude, Hanumana just touched the mountain with his finger, and thanking the mountain, proceeded on his way to Lanka.

Seeing Mainak coming forth to help Hanumana, Indra blessed Mainak and said from that day onwards he did not have to hide in the waters.

Surasa

Hanumana began increasing his size. He became ten yojanas tall. Wanting to grow further, he doubled his size. The mountain on which they were standing started swaying .Hanumana took his position. Chaos prevailed on the mountain. Trees started falling down. Many evil beings died. The birds started flying off into the skies.
Hanumana took the name of Rama and jumped. The force that was created uprooted trees and animals from the mountain.

Hanuman was in the sky, going towards Lanka.
The Gods approached Surasa, the mother of the snakes. They told her Hanumana, son of Pavan was flying towards Lanka to achieve a task of Rama. She task was to find out how strong he was.

Surasa took the form of a huge rakshashi. She came in front of Hanumana and started obstructing his way.
She said she was hungry and wanted to eat him. She thanked the Gods for sending him as her food.

Hanumana said he wanted to be excused. He was going on a mission and when he returned with the news of Sita, he would then after the giving the news to Rama, enter her mouth.

Surasa said she did not care. He was food for her, and she would not let her go.

Saying this she opened her mouth wide. She made her mouth become twenty yojanas. Hanumana grew upto thirty yojanas and Surasa's mouth became fourty yojanas. Hanumana became larger and Surasa also became increased her mouth size.

Hanumana realized this was not an ordinary rakshashi. He entered her mouth. Surasa closed her mouth and Hanumana becoming as small as a thumb, came out of Surasa's ear. Hanumana said I realize now, having meditated, that you are Surasa, the mother of the Nagas. Please permit me to proceed further.

Surasa assumed her own self and blessed him. She said she had been sent by the Gods to test him and she said she knew he would succeed. 

Hanumana climbs the mountain

Hanumana took the name of Rama and got ready to jump. He hugged Angada and took leave of the others. He then said if he took off from the beach, it was possible that the ground would crack with the force. It was better they climbed on top of the mountain Mahendra. Hanumana and the others then got on top of the mountain. Hanumana stood on top of the mountain and it looked as if a mountain was on top of another. The Gods and other celestial beings came to see this. The vanaras collected flowers quickly made a garland which they gave Hanumana.
Hanumana sat down on the mountain and closed his eyes, facing East. He took the names of Ganesha, all Gods, Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Sugriva and his parents.
When he took the name of Rama, he felt Rama in his heart, blessing him. Happy, he got ready. 

Hanumana's birth

Jambuvana said Hanumana was the only one who was capable of performing this task. He said he would talk about Hanumana's greatness.

There was an apsara once who was cursed by Vushwamitra once to become a vanari. She was married the vanara Kesari. One day when the vanari, Anjana was on a mountain, a gentle breeze blew. It was spring and Anjana was aroused with the breeze touching her body. This aroused Vayu himself, and he caught Anjana and forcibly had intercourse  with her. Anjana was aghast and started cursing her luck.
Vayu said he was not able to control himself seeing her. He said a son would be born will be born with great strength. He would have speeds faster than Vayu.
The boy was born soon on the day of the new moon. The day he was born, he saw the sun in the sky. Thinking it to be a fruit, the baby jumped off and went to eat the fruit.
With a single jump, he reached the Sun. Rahu was going to swallow the sun. Seeing the boy, Rahu got scared and fled. He went to Indra and said a second Rahu had come to swallow the sun.

Indra wanted to see what was happening. Getting on his mount, Airavata, he went to this boy. Indra thought if he went closer the boy may leave the Sun and try and eat him. Indra picked his weapon, Vajra, and hurled that at the innocent boy. The boy fell on the Malaya mountains and in the process, his cheek (Hanu) broke, which was why he called Hanumana.

Jamuvana then said Hanumana, you alone can solve the issue. Please go and get news of Sita for us.

Hanumana said he would narrate another incident about his life. In the pilgrimage of Prabhasa, the sages used to come for their bath. An elephant used to come and kill the sages with its tusks. The sages went to my father for help. My father killed the elephant with its bare hands. My father then went and told the rishis that the elephant was dead. Pleased the sages asked my father to ask for a boon. My father asked for a son. The sages said he would have a son who would be famous in all three worlds, Thus I was born. My mother was in the Malaya mountain when the wind came and blew her clothes away, thus I was called Pawan Nandan. We are all sons of Gods and none of our mothers had us through their husbands, so please do not point at me alone.

He said he would jump across and cross the ocean as if it was a child's play. It was a task of Rama and he would achieve that. I will make Angada proud of me.
The Vanaras said there was no one whose strength could be compared with that of Hanumana.

Hanumana then got ready to jump.

Vanaras think of crossing the ocean

The vanaras started at the vast ocean. They could watre everywhere and the giant waves of the ocean. They were afraid to get into the water, fearing crocodiles. The waves were huge, some the sizes of mountains. Angada asked the vanaras to rest on the banks of the ocean saying they would think what to do, in the morning.
Early morning, Angada asked them who was strong enough to cross the ocean with one jump.
Gaya, a vanara said he could cross ten yojanas. (A Yojana is approximately a mile). His brother, Gabaksha, said he could jump twenty yojanas. Sarabha, a vanara said he could jump fourty yojanas. A vanara called Gandhamadan said he could jump fifty yojanas. Mahendra said he could jump sixty yojanas and his brother Devendra said he could jump seventy yojanas.
The bear Jambuvana said he was old now. He said he would talk about his younger days. When Bali was the king of the world, Vishnu as Vamana had subdued him by placing his feet on the three worlds. Jambuvana and Jatayu had travelled thrice around the foot of Vishnu, which was as big as the universe. Now with age, he would not be able to do much. Angada said he could probably cross the ocean but he was not sure if he would be able to return back.
Jambuvana said as the commander of the vanaras he needed to stay back and control all, so he should not go.
Angada said there was no other option as no one was in a position to cross the ocean.
Jambuvana said he would show the one who would be able to cross the ocean, and he pointed to Hanumana who was standing in one corner. 

Sampati gets his wings

Sampati, the son of Garuda, was sitting on the peak of a mountain. He heard the vanaras talking. Listening closely, he heard Angada say - Listen to Hanumana. We came here to look for Sita and we find our death. To help Rama, Jatayu went and he too met his death in the hands of Ravana. It now because of Sita, that we will perish in this foreign land.

Sampati called out - Who talks about the death of Jatayu. He was my brother. My wings are burnt which is why I cannot move, else I would have come to you.

The vanaras thought this was a clever ruse for the bird to get them closer and then eat them.

Hanumana said he would go and talk to the bird. He along with the other vanaras lifted Sampati and brought him where the other vanaras were. Angada then told Sampati about Rama, Lakshmana, Vali and Sugriva. After that he told Sampati how Jatayu fought with Ravana and died.

They then asked Sampati how he knew Jatayu. Sampati then said - We were two sons of Garuda - me and Jatayu. One day we decided to have a race and see who could touch the sun first. The heat of the sun became unbearable as we grew closer to the sun. Jatayu was feeling the heat. I covered Jatayu with my wings, and in that process, my wings got burnt. I then fell on this mountain, where you saw me first.
I was lying on the mountain without any food. One day a brahmana came here. He had a bath in the lake, and I saw him hiding behind a banyan tree. The brahamana saw me and greeted me. I was in pain and could not say anything. He then said you will get your wings back. Son of Dashratha, Rama will come to the forest with wife and brother. Seeing the house empty, Ravana will carry away his wife. Vanaras will come to look for Sita, and seeing them you will get back your wings.

Angada said Seeing your size and form we are scared of you. Do tell us about Ravana.

Hanumana then said before you tell us, let me tell you the story of Ramayana. Starting from Valmiki, Hanumana narrated the entire story of Ramayana. He spoke of the seven kandas of Ramayana and said in Sundarkanda a bridge would be built, in LankaKanda Ravana would die and in Uttarkanda the Ramayana would be sung. While Hanumana was saying this, Sampati's wings started appearing. By the time he was done, Sampati had a new pair of wings.

Sampati then said, if I raise my neck, I can see Sita in Lanka, in the Ashoka grove. Many Rakshashis are guarding her. One among you who is the strongest , should try to cross the ocean with one jump. He then spoke about his son Suparshwa. he stayed in the Himalayas and got food for his father. One day he was delayed. When Sampati asked him the cause of delay, He said he had seen Ravana carrying away a fair lady. Afraid that he would accidentally kill the woman, he let Ravana go. He can carry you on his back and take you to Lanka.

While they were talking, Suparshwa appeared there. He was about to eat the vanaras and seeing this, the vanaras hid behind Sampati. Sampati asked him to carry the vanaras over to Lanka on his back. Angada declined the offer saying they were sons of the Gods and would find out a way to cross the ocean.

Thanking the vanaras, Sampati then flew off with his son, towards the Himalayas.

Angada and Hanumana talk

The vanaras asked Angada what to do next. In the tunnel and in the land they had looked for Sita and had not found her.
Angada said a month was over and that would mean death for them. If they went back, they would die. And after killing Vali, Angada said, he was the next target. He said he was the made crown prince by Rama and not by Sugriva. If Sugriva saw Angada as a thorn, he would look for an excuse to kill him.
Among the vanaras was one called Tarak. He said to Angada - Let us go back to nether world which we just came from. There are wonderful fruit trees. We will live there in peace.
Listening to all this saddened Hanumana. He then said - We all came with an objective and now there is talk going on about deviating from that.  Angada, you should not talk to the vanaras in that manner and deviate them from their path. You will not escape death, if you plan to run away now. The vanaras here have their families at home. Will they all leave their families and go with you? You are single, nit yet married. If you run away, you will always be looked down upon as a traitor. What I suggest is that we continue our search. If we are totally unsuccessful, then we will report the same to Sugriva. Sugriva will not unjustly punish us.
Angada said I do not support this. My father was killed unjustly. Vali could have achieved this easily. Why did Rama not talk to Vali? Vali had defeated Ravana once before. This was the Ravana that stole Sita, and because of that I see my death.
Hanumana said - I will tell you what I know. Taking the name of Rama absolves all sins.
Angada said - Rama and Sugriva are not good. If you go back, tell my mother what I said.

The other vanaras decided to follow Angada. They sat down with him, to fast unto death.

Vanaras find the ocean

Let us now see what was happening in the south. The group took a month travelling the Vindhya mountains. They entered a part of the forest which was very dense. Once there was a handsome ten year old brahmana in the forest, who had been killed by wild animals. The boy's father had then put a curse in that forest. Due to that, no one ventured into that area.
The vanaras entered this forest but could see any sign of Sita there. They another forest and started looking there. A rakshasha was there. Seeing the vanaras, it came to eat them up. Thinking this was Ravana, Angada attacked. The two started struggling. Angada finally finally pushed his crown into the chest of the rakshasha. The rakshasha started vomitting blood and died.
Looking for Sita, they saw no sign.
Angada said to the vanaras - We came in search of Sita and month is over. There is no pint returning now. We either die there or die here.
All agreed. They started moving around in the forest, not knowing where to go next.They decided to continue with the search and then go back and inform, even if it was very late.
They saw a small pond. There was no water in the pond, but they could hear the sound of many birds.
They wanted to explore - as they were not sure, without a trace of water around, where the sound was coming from.
Seeing a tall tree, they all climbed that to see if they could see anything. All could see was a very dark tunnel. Not sure where the tunnel would lead, the vanaras first were hesitant but then they all decided to enter the tunnel.
It was a very dark tunnel. and they had to grope around to know where to go.
They were going on and on and the tunnel was not ending. They were now thirsty.
The vanaras asked Hanumana how far was it? Hanumana asked them not to worry.
They kept moving.

Soon they found themselves in a lovely house. It was made of gold, had golden fences and golden trees with golden fruits in it. In a pond, golden lotuses were blooming and golden fishes were swimming in the pond.

They all wondered where they had come. Hungry and thirsty, they were tempted to eat from the trees and drink from the pond, but they did not know who was the keeper of these.
Soon they saw a woman there. She seemed to be the only living being there.

The woman was extremely beautiful, she was more beautiful than any other goddesses they knew. Her beauty was comparable only with Lakshmi. She was simply dressed in white, with sandal marks on her face and body. She was wearing jewelry made out if shell. A beautiful smell was coming from body.

Hanumana went to her said - We are creatures of the forest. Our thirst and hunger has brought us here. We do not know where we are. Please tell us who you are. Who was the owner of this magnificent place.

She said her name was Sambhava and she was the daughter of mount Sumeru. Hema was her friend who owned this place. She was acting as a keeper for Hema. Hema was the consort of the asura, Maya. Maya and Hema roamed around the worlds and would spend a few days in this place. She also asked the vanaras to escape before Maya came and caught them.

Hanumana then told her who they were and why had come there. They asked her for help.

The woman first allowed the vanaras to eat the fruits in the trees which they gladly did. After food, they drank water from the pond.

After they were were satisfied, she said she would show them the way out. She took them through another tunnel and told them to go straight. Thanking her, the vanaras went and found themselves in front of the mighty ocean.

Vanaras return from North, East and West

Hearing Sugriva take the names of the places, Rama asked him how he knew about all these places. Sugriva said it was the fear of Vali that made him travel in all the three worlds. It was difficult to match Vali's speed, so Sugriva needed a place where he could be safe, Not residing for more than a night, from the fear of Vali, Sugriva thus traveled all over. Remembering that Vali could not come to Rishyamukha, they finally decided to live there.

With nearly a month over, the vanaras from North, West and East started returning with no news of Sita. Rama was disheartened to hear this. Sugriva said, Ravana resided in the south and the best of the vanaras had gone there. Hanumana who was strong and wise had travelled south, along with Angada. 

Vanaras are asked to travel north

Calling the brave Shatabali, Sugriva asked him to go with his army to the north. Travel north till you come to the Himalayas, where the sun rays play with the mountain peaks, There Bhagiratha got Ganga, Go further north, if you do not see Sita. go further North. It is a terrible land there - no water, no trees. Further, you will see the Kailasha mountain. There you will also see the place called Aloka, where Kubera, the God of wealth, stays. There you will see a river called Vimala, whose waters are red in color. There you will see sandal wood trees. Look for Sita there, in case Ravana has kept her there. if you do not see Sita there, north wards you will see the Trisingha mountain, with three great peaks. Further north you see Jambul trees, some having golden fruits. The land there is called Jambudvipa. There you will see a magnificent Jambul tree where the Gods come and play. Look for Sita there. Travel further if you do not see Sita. You will come to the Mandar mountain. There you will see the river Kaushiki. North of that you will see the Mahesh sagara. Look carefully for Sita in that mountain. There you will see a giant Shiva Linga. Ravana is great devotee of Shiva and worships Shiva everyday.
If you do not see Sita there, further north you will see the Krauncha mountain. A dangerous place to be in, look there and travel towards the Dronagiri mountains. You will see the Balakhilya rishis there. You will see the Punyada river there, where you see the Mlechha tribes. They  are ferocious people, who cross the river with the help of bamboo poles.
Northwards you will see a land of happy people. You will get what you want there. The women you will see decked in many ornaments. Indra had cursed the women who were very proud. While they would be cheerful in the day, they would be dead like when evening came, and would revive when dawn came.
Further you will see Anantasagara where you will see the mountain, Himgiri. The mountain was no high that even the Sun could not touch its peak,

There is nothing north of that. Come back in a month with the news of Sita. 

Vanaras are told to travel west

For the vanaras going to the west, Sugriva said -
Explore everything carefully. Do think twice before exploring. From the land of Sindhu, Malaya and Kaveri cross the land of Krimi and then come to garden of Ketaki. You will find the place full of screw pine plants. While the flowers have a wonderful smell, beware of the leaves which are sharp like swords. Swiftly cross this place. After that you will come to a garden of palms, Enjoy the fruits of the trees.
Further west, you will find mountains with large peaks. If you do not see Sita there, travel further till you come to the Chnadrabhana mountain. Look for Sita there. Then you will see the Chakravana mountain, where you see the bones of an asura from which the Sudarshana chakra was formed. This was the place where Vishnu had killed the asura Hayagriva. From the bones, the chakra was made and Vishnu became known as Chakradhari (holder of the chakra).
if you do not see Sita there, look further in the Varaha mountains. Here lived Varuna. Travel further west if you do not see Sita there. Tread carefully as, there was a asura there called Naraka. If Sita is found, travel further till you come to the Sumeru mountain. On this mountain, at times, Shiva and Parvati lived. This was a wonderful place to visit. This was where the Sun set . There was nothing west of the Sumeru and the Sun did not travel there. Travel there and report back in a month. 

Rama gives ring to Hanumana

Sugriva had an intuition that Ravana lived in the south. He selected the best of his team - Hanumana, Angada, Jambuvana, Nala, Nila, Rishabha and Kumuda and asked them to go to the south their army. He asked them to explore all rivers, lakes and mountains.
Cross Godavari and Krishna rivers and then you will reach the Kaveri river. You will reach the Malaya and Mahendra mountains. South of that you will reach the forest of the Sandal trees. You will then reach the great ocean.
Cross the Ocean and you will reach the golden city of Lanka.
In the ocean lived Simhika who could kill by catching one's shadow. be careful of her.
The ocean had to crossed with one jump. Any stopping in the way could result in death.
In Lanka lived Ravana. Look for Sita in Lanka.

Calling Hanumana aside, Sugriva said - I feel you are the one who will successfully achieve the task. Sugriva then took Hanumana to Rama. He said to Rama, Give something to Hanumana, such that Sita can identify him.

Rama took off his ring and gave that to Hanumana. Hanumana took that ring from Rama. 

Sugriva shows the army to Rama

Sugriva then asked Hanumana to get the vanaras ready. In all mountains, in all forests, everywhere - all vanaras were commanded to come. They were asked to come in ten days. News went out, vanaras started appearing. Like swarms of locusts, the vanaras started coming. Hanumana , Angada and the other great heroes went to fetch the vanaras in all directions. In ten days all the vanaras had arrived.

Along with swarms of vanaras, Sugriva then went to meet Rama. Sugriva met Lakshmana at the foothills. He said he was sorry for his earlier behavior and wanted to ensure that Rama and Lakshmana did not have any ill will towards him. Along with Lakshmana, Sugriva started climbing the mountain, to meet Rama.

Rama heard the sound of the vanaras chattering in the plains below. He thought Sugriva was coming to attack.  When Rama was thinking thus, Sugriva came and bowed down before Rama. He said he was grateful to Rama, for what he had done to him. He then said he had got all the vanaras in the land and then said in whatever land Sita was, they would find her out. He said till Sita was found, he would not go back to his palace and would work day and night to find out where Sita was.Only when Sita was with Rama, would he return back to his kingdom.

Sugriva then took Rama to show the vanaras. Billions of vanaras were scattered all around and all around one looked, only vanaras were visible.

Sugriva then asked a vanara called Vinod, who was a chief in the army, to take a part of the vanaras and go east wards to get news of Sita. He said eastwards there would be many wonderful lands and many wonderful places. Look everywhere. Cross Ganga, Sarayu , Gomati and then cross Brahmaputra. The land of Kirata will come. Travel carefully there. Kiratas have a wonderful form - their body is golden in color, hair is of copper color, they have huge ears and they live in the water and eat fish. Other beings, who ventured close would also get eaten up. If Ravana had hidden Sita there, ask for Sita very politely and nicely. After the land of Kiratas, got to the mountain Rishabha. There the Gods and apsaras danced and sang. Even Indra went there to enjoy. After that there would see the island of Khiroda. A white mountain would be visible there. On the mountain was the great snake, Shesha. He had a million hoods, and each hood had many gems. The gems provided the light there. Take the name of Shiva, when you pass that land. Further eastwards would be the land of the Golden Palms.  If Sita was not there, further eastwards was Kaladar. This was a mountain with a lake full of black water. This was filled with snakes. If the snakes opened their mouths, it would mean death. If Sita is not found, travel to the mountain Lohita. Eastwards was the Lohita sea, where a great rakshasha lived. There was a golden Simula tree there which had golden fruits on it. Beyond that was the land where the Sun lived. Further eastwards was all dark.

Sugriva asked the vanaras to report back to him in a month. Any delay would mean death for them.

Lakshmana goes to Sugriva

Soon the monsoon was over, and cool autumn season started. Rama used to wonder how Sita was doing, whether she was alive or dead. Rama said Sugriva was enjoying his life as the king and forgotten his promise. I killed Vali for him, and he does not care about his part of the promise. Lakshmana please go to his palace and remind Sugriva about his task.

Lakshmana said he would go immediately and if Sugriva disagreed, he would put an end to the vanara.
Taking his bow in his left hand and arrows in his right, Lakshmana set forth for Sugriva's palace.

When he reached the gates, the guards were scared to see an angry Lakshmana. Lakshmana asked them to tell Sugriva that he had come.

Angada then asked Lakshmana to calm down. Sugriva would help Rama. He then went inside and told Sugriva and Tara that Lakshmana had come. He also said that Lakshmana was very angry. He was saying that Rama had helped Sugriva get his kingdom by killing Vali, and Sugriva was relaxing in his palace, having forgotten his duties.

Sugriva was enjoying the company of women when Angada told him about Lakshmana's arrival. Sugriva said Tell Lakshmana, that I became Rama's friend, that is true but should I give up my life for Rama? Even the Gods were scared of Ravana, so how could a few humans and vanaras defeat Ravana?

Hanumana was there. He said to Sugriva, Rama is none other than Vishnu himself. Do not say things like this. You got this kingdom because of Rama, so do not say thus to Rama. You are spending your days in luxury; you do not see Rama's sufferings. Lakshmana has come to you. Go and please him. I am saying for your good. You are enjoying with women while Rama is alone, suffering. You took a promise, going around the fire. Now, abide by that.

Realizing his mistake, Sugriva asked Hanumana to fetch Lakshmana.

Lakshmana went into the room weher Sugriva was. He started shouting at Sugriva for having swayed from his word. Seeing Lakshmana angry, Sugriva was scared. He did not know what to say. Tara then said : Your elder brother's friend deserves respect. Forgive Sugriva. The vanaras will help you in your task. Control your anger.

Sugriva was standing close by, with garlands of flowers around his neck. He got up and tore the garlands and threw them down. He bowed down before Lakshmana and said he had forgotten about his responsibilities. From now, he would not rest till he had he helped Rama. He said he would be just accompanying Rama. It would be by Rama's grace that the enemy would be defeated.

Lakshmana pleased, left.

Sugriva crowned

After the last rites, the vanaras went to Rama. Hanumana said to Rama, Sugriva has gained the kingdom due to you, and he wants to worship you. Please come into the palace such that Sugriva can serve you.

Rama said he was under promise and would not enter any palace for now. He would be able to do so, when his fourteen years of exile were over. To Sugriva, Rama said - Go to your kingdom and rule in peace. Make Angada the crown prince. Tara is very wise. Please make her your chief adviser and listen to her. This is the month of Shravana, the season of rains. Rule in peace for sometime. Come back to me immediately once the rains are over.

Sugriva was then crowned the king of Kishkindhya. He was bathed with the waters of the oceans. Angada was made the crown prince. All started shouting the glory of Rama.

Rama and Lakshmana went to the nearby Malyavan mountain. They stayed there, on the peak of the mountain. There were wonderful lakes and fruit trees on the mountain. Rama was sad to this beauty. He was missing Sita.

While Sugriva in his palace, slept on golden cots, Rama on the mountain slept on leaves and twigs.

When the rains started, the surrounding areas became green. Rama was grieving for Sita. 

Last rites of Vali

A chariot came down the heaven and the soul of Vali left for heaven, on that chariot. Tara broke down and started beating her head with hands and cried away. She said she wanted to go along with her husband. With great difficulty, her maids held her back. Hanumana tried consoling Tara. He said With the blessings of Rama, Vali has gone to his own land. Do not get angry on Sugriva. It was Vali's destiny. Bring up Angada as the ideal prince. All is yours. Do as you please.
Tara said the husband was the ultimate for a pious wife, and she was nothing without her husband.
Sugriva was also crying. Rama tried consoling Sugriva. He said Do not grieve. What has happened, was to happen. Get the best of sandalwood and agarwood. Light up the pyre and burn the body of Vali.
Lakshmana asked Hanumana to get the necessary items needed for the last rites.
Hanumana got many precious gems and clothes. The body of Vali was clad in the clothes and was laid on the pyre, on the banks of river Pampa. The pyre was lit. Slowly Vali's body burnt. Tara kept crying.  

Vali dies

In her palace, Tara heard that Vali had fallen in battle. Taking Vali, Tara rushed out, not bothering to dress properly. On the way, she saw Vali's ministers walking away. She asked them where they were going. They said : O Queen. You begged Vali not to go and fight. He did not listen to your wise words. Vali was killed, shot by Rama. Go back, and make Angada the king.

Tara said, If Angada wants to be king, I will let him go. All I want now, is to go and join my husband.

Tara reached the spot where Vali was lying. She saw Rama and Lakshmana sitting on the ground, near Vali, their bows and arrows lying on the ground. All were quiet, sitting with their heads bent down.You defeated great kings and today you lie defeated by Rama. I tried stopping you but you did not listen. You are the light of my life. With you leaving, what does Tara have to live for? Sugriva did this for the kingdom.

Turning to Rama, Tara said, You are from the dynasty of Raghu. Why did you kill my husband, while hiding behind trees. If you had killed him in face to face, I would not have been so hurt. All say you are kind. You have shown your kindness in a weird way. You the grief of losing a spouse, so why did you give me the same grief? My husband did not curse you, but I will curse you, and my curse will come true. Know for sure, that you will rescue Sita and bring her back to Ayodhya. Sita will not stay for ever with you, and she will leave you and go to the heavens. The way you made my cry, so will Sita make you cry when she leaves. You will loose your own life, after Sita goes. My curse will come true. The way you killed my husband; in another life the same person will kill you, hiding behind bushes.

Vali the said slowly, Tara, I have said may harsh words to Rama. I die because of the sin committed by Ravana, when he abducted Sita.
Turning to Sugriva, Vali said, I have had been cruel to you. Take over the kingdom. Take care of Angada, who grew up in luxuries. Be a father to Angada in my absence. I hand over Angada to you. Rama's arrow burns me. My life will soon leave. I had a garland from Indra. I give that to you, Sugriva.
Vali then said to Angada, Take care of Sugriva. Be heroic and let Sugriva be proud of your achievements like I was. Do not do anything that will bring shame.

Saying this, Vali died.

Rama speaks to Vali

Rama said to Vali :
Listen quietly to what I will now say. You are a great, brave and fierce warrior. You have cursed me enough. If there is something else, please do say that too. The animals that graze on grass are killed by kings, but harm did those animals do to the kings? The kings also hunt fishes in the water, but did the fishes ever harm them? If in front me, I hear someone having coveted another's wife, that is grave sin. Your sins are gone, now that are shot by me. Stop lamenting and go peacefully to heaven. I have given my word to Sugriva, his enemy is my enemy too. You are born of Indra. Leave this body and go to heaven taking your true form .

Vali said I have said many harsh words to you. Forgive me for that. Take care of Angada and Sugriva. If you give the kingdom to Sugriva, please make sure that Angada gets what he deserves. Be like a father to both Sugriva and Angada. My wife, Tara, daughter of Sushena is at home. Please ensure that Sugriva does not disrespect her. 

Vali asks Rama for a reason

Vali was writhing with pain on the bare ground. Rama went near Vali. Like a hunter goes near the deer, once he has shot it, so did Rama go near Vali. Looking at Rama, Vali, in great pain, said;

Tara told me many times not to go and fight. I did not listen to her. You are born in a royal family. Is this what you learnt there? You are aware of the category of animals that are hunted, and you would be aware that a vanara does not fall in that category. When then, O Rama, did you do this? My meat is not edible. My skin will not help you. My head will not make a trophy in your room. So Rama, did you hurt me, when I never ever hurt you. You belong to the dynasty of Raghu and are known to be correct and righteous. All say, Rama is compassion himself. Is this how you show compassion? Are you roaming in the forests in the guise of mendicant, thinking whom to kill next? I was fighting with my brother. Why did you intervene? I have never heard of two parties fighting and a third party benefiting from that. If you had come in a face to face combat with me, I would have killed you with one slap. You would have thought it would be tough to defeat me, which is why you attacked me from behind. I had problems with Sugriva and it was our fight. Why did you come in the middle? How will you show your face in the society? If it was for getting Sita, you should have told me. One jump, and I would have fetched Sita for you. Ravana had come to fight me and he went back defeated and ashamed.

Thus Vali kept addressing Rama.

Vali falls

Rama asked Sugriva to challenge Vali again. He asked Lakshmana to give Sugriva something that would set him apart from Vali. Lakshmana made a garland out of flowers and put that around Sugriva's neck.

They started again, Rama and Lakshmana following with their bows in their hands.
On their way, they saw a forest full of banana trees. Rama asked whose banana grove was it. Sugriva said this grove belonged to seven sages who used to meditate there.

On their way, Sugriva said Please do not fail this time. My promise is there. I will help you get back Sita.

Rama said you are decked with a garland that will distinguish you from Vali. Do not worry. Vali will die today.

Going to the gates, Sugriva called out to Vali again. Vali heard the call and got ready to go out.

Tara, wife of Vali, was a wise woman. She asked Vali not go for the duel. She said Do not go. Who has heard of a person who got beaten up and has come back again, so soon. I see ill omens, so I request you not to go. Sugriva must have some help from someone which is why he is back so soon. Let Sugriva call you. Do not go. Dashrastha was the king of Ayodhya. His sons are in this forest. Sugriva must have taken their help to kill you. Sugriva is your brother after all. Forgive him and rule along with him, as in the earlier days.

Vali asked Tara not to say such things. He said When I went to kill Mayavi, Sugriva locked me inside the tunnel and fled. As you are appealing, I will not kill Sugriva. I will make sure he learns a lesson and never returns again.

Tara said Rama is a great warrior and it would not be possible to escape his arrow, if he is there to help Sugriva.

Vali said What have I done to Rama, that Rama will kill me. Rama is righteous and upholds truth. He will not attack me, without any reason. If Rama does come to help Sugriva, I will make sure I teach Rama also a lesson he will not forget.

With tears in her eyes,Tara let Vali go. When Vali stepped out he saw Sugriva alone.
They began fighting. Vali being stronger, took control. One slap from Vali, and Sugriva fell on the ground. Seeing Sugriva fall, Rama took out his arrow and fitted it on his bow. He released the arrow. Travelling like lightning, the arrow went and pierced Vali in his chest.

Vali fell down. He was in pain and he knew he was dying. He shouted out 'Who did this'.

Sugriva challenges Vali

Rama then asked Sugriva to call Vali. He would kill Vali and make Sugriva then king. Sugriva along with Hanumana, Jambuvana, Nala, Nila, Rama and Lakshmana went near the main gates of Kishkindhya. Rama and Lakshmana hid themselves behind trees. Rama asked Sugriva to call out to Vali. When Vali came, Rama would kill him.

As decided, Sugriva called out to Vali. Vali came and a wrestling match started among the two. Rama was ready with an arrow in his hand. He wanted to use the arrow but he was confused. The two brothers looked so alike, that he was not sure if he would be able to kill the right vanara.

In the wrestling match, Vali easily took control and Sugriva, not able to withstand the blows of Vali, fled from there. He went to Rishyamukha mountain and started nursing his wounds.

Rama went there. Sugriva was sitting there with his head bent down. He said to Rama, if you had decided to not kill Vali, why did you make me go through this pain. I had said earlier, Vali was stromg and killing him would not be an easy task.

Rama said that was not the case. Both the brothers were alike in shape and clothes and he was afraid, if he shot an arrow, he would kill the wrong brother. If there was something that would distinguish Sugriva from Vali, then he would not have any difficulty.

Sugriva is convinced that Rama can kill Vali

Vali started throwing rocks and uprooting trees, threw that at the buffalo. Not affected, the buffalo rushed towards Vali. Vali held the buffalo by its horns and lifted it up. As if he was rotating a potter's wheel, Vali swung the buffalo by its horns in the air and then released it. The buffalo dashed its head against the ground and died. Vali then kicked the carcass of the buffalo.
The carcass, spilling blood all over, landed in the ashrama of the rishi Matanga, which was on the Rishyamukha mountain. The sage was angry and he quickly went and cleaned himself. He then put a curse saying - Whoever flung the carcass, if that person ever comes to Rishyamukha mountain, he will be calling his death.
When Vali heard this, he bowed down to the sage from a distance and decided never to go there.

Ending his tale, Sugriva said to Rama, as Vali knew of the curse he did not come to the mountain, which is why Sugriva and his friends had taken refuge there.

Rama said he would help Sugriva, by killing Vali.

Sugriva then said Vali was very strong and wise. He could travel at lightning speed. His strength was immense. He could throw a peak of mountain in mid air and catch it back.

Rama said he would be able to kill Vali.

Sugriva said Vali had kicked the carcass of Dudunbhi and it was lying there. Vali had made it fly a mile. Rama gently kicked the skeleton of the buffalo, and it went flying a hundred miles.

Sugriva said when Vali had kicked the carcass, it had flesh and blood. Now it was just a light skeleton.

Sugriva said he would tell more of Vali's strength. Ravana had once come to fight and defeat Vali. Vali was meditating then on the banks of the ocean. Ravana attacked Vali from behind. Without opening his eyes, Vali bound Ravana by his tail. He kept dunking Ravana in the ocean, using his tail.
When Vali finished his prayers, Ravana who was still tied to the tail, asked for forgiveness.

Rama said he had promised to help Sugriva, and he would do so.

Sugriva then pointed out to seven palm trees standing in a row. He said if Rama could pierce all seven with a single arrow, then he would be convinced that Vali would die in Rama's hand.

Rama, with a smile took out a arrow and with his right hand, released it. The arrow pierced the trees and then went down into the ground. Then taking the form of a swan, the arrow came back to Rama and taking back its own form, it entered Rama's quiver.

Sugriva was convinced, Rama would be able to kill Vali.

Dudunbhi challenges Vali

Rama asked Sugriva how was he staying so close to the kingdom, knowing that Vali could anytime and catch him. Surgiva then said he would tell about Rishyamukha mountain.

Dudunbhi, when he heard that his brother had been killed, became wild with anger. In his buffalo form, he attacked the kingdom. He first went to the ocean and challenged it to a duel. The ocean told him to go fight with the Himalayas. The Himalayas asked him to go and fight with Vali.

Dudubhi went to Vali and called out to him for a duel. He went to the gardens of Vali and started destroying it. The buffalo saw Vali come there accompanied by women. He said I do not wish to fight you. I pardon you. Go away. Come again in the evening.

Vali  sent the women away and told the demon he had invited his death by coming there. He said he would pardon the buffalo, if he left in peace.

Dudubhi then began attacking Vali.

Sugriva narrates his story

Sugriva said he had no idea who that was that was carrying away Sita, nor did he know in which direction that chariot had gone. He said whatever be the place, he would help Rama get back Sita. He asked Rama to leave aside the grief. He said he had promised around the fire that he would help Rama get back his wife, and he would stick to his promise.

He said he would do what Rama said.

Rama said he was sure Sugriva would be able to help him rescue Sita. He said if there was some help Sugriva wanted from him, he would also get that.

Sugriva then said he would tell his story. He asked the vanaras to gather fruits and log of wood. The wood was spread around and Rama and Sugriva sat on that. Sugriva offered the fruits to Rama. Sugriva then said he was hiding from his brother Vali, who had taken over his kingdom and wife. Rama said he would help Sugriva by killing Vali. Rama then asked why had Vali behaved in that manner.

Sugriva said - There was a Vanara king called Akshaya. When he died, Vali, being the elder was crowned the king. Vali shared the throne with Sugriva. Things were very fine and the two brothers were happily sharing the duties of the king. This went on till one day, when two demons arrived there.

Mayavi and Dudunbhi were two demon brothers. Taking the form of buffaloes, they attacked the kingdom. Mayavi came first and attacked in the night,  and the two brothers, Vali and Sugriva chased the buffalo. In the light of the moon, they saw the demon enter a tunnel. Vali asked Sugriva to guard the mouth of the tunnel while he went inside to follow and kill the demon. Sugriva asked Vali not to go, but Vali did not listen and went inside the tunnel.

For months Vali travelled inside, chasing the demon. When he finally caught the demon, there was a lot of noise coming. Sugriva thought Vali was in pain. Thinking Vali had been killed, Sugriva closed the mouth of the tunnel with a big boulder.

When Sugriva went back to the court and told all, what had happened, the ministers crowned Sugriva the king. Sugriva, grieving for Vali, performed his last rites and sat on the throne.

A few days later, after killing the demon, Vali returned. He thought Sugriva had tricked him and he started abusing him.
Sugriva said what had happened was due to his ignorance, but Vali refused to listen to him. Vali threatened to kill Sugriva, and fearing for his life, Sugriva fled.

Rama becomes friends with Sugriva

Taking the form of a saint, Hanumana went to the places where Rama and Lakshmana were. He said looking at you , it seems you are princes. If so, why are you in this dense forest? Tell me who are you and where are you from? I am Hanumana, adviser of Sugriva, the Vanara. Sugriva would like to be friends with you, if you come in peace.

Rama said to Lakshmana, we came looking for Sugriva and Sugriva now wants to meet us. Tell Hanumana, who we are.

Lakshmana told Hanumana who they were and why they were in the forest. He also said they had been advised to meet Sugriva and take his help in fetching Sita, and for that they were in search of Sugriva.

Hanumana said Sugriva would be very pleased to meet you. He is without kingdom, without wife. His brother Vali has usurped everything. You help Sugriva get his kingdom back, and Sugriva would help you get Sita back.

Rama said he was eagerly waiting to meet Sugriva.

Hanuman went to Sugriva and told him about Rama and Lakshmana. He asked Sugriva to take the form of a human which would make his appearance more appealing. Rama, son of Dashratha, was here and they could mutually help each other. Rama is none other than Vishnu and welcoming and pleasing him would be great achievement. Along with Rama, was his brother Lakshmana, whose appearance seemed to be glowing like the sun. Welcome them.

Sugriva went where Rama and Lakshmana were. He welcomed them with flowers and fruits. He said he would serve Rama and help him get back Sita. He also said he had heard that Rama was willing to be his friend, and he was grateful that Rama had agreed to become friends with an animal.
He said You are one who gave life to a stone. You became friends with a Chandala. You are the Lord himself. I am grateful to be of your service.

Rama offered his hand, and Sugriva offered his hand. Hanumana fetched firewood, He struck the firewood, created a fire and added more wood to it. Rama and Sugriva then went around the fire, pledging friendship to each other.

Sugriva then said that they were sitting on the mountain, when they saw a woman being carried away by Ravana. They was throwing her jewels on the ground. Some of it fell near us, and we kept it. If you permit, I will bring them.

Rama said he was eagerly waiting to see them. Sugriva brought them, and seeing those jewels Rama could not control his tears. He said his world had become dark without Sita.  He asked Sugriva if he knew where Ravana had taken her.

Sugriva disturbed to see Rama and Lakshmana

Rama and Lakshmana roamed around till they approached the Rishyamukha mountain. Seeing the mountain, they started climbing up.

Sugriva was on the mountain with his friends. When they saw Rama and Lakshmana climbing up, they felt disturbed. He thought Vali had sent these to get him. This disturbed the vanaras who were around the mountain,. Excited, they started swinging on branches, breaking leaves and fruits, in an attempt to scare the humans away.

Hanumana then said to Sugriva, This was the time to be calm. Vali was no where to be seen. Not everyone was to be suspected. Tell the vanaras swinging from the trees to keep calm. I will go and try and find out who these men are.

Sugriva said The two are dressed like hermits but they carry bows and arrows. They may be some princes in the guise of hermits. Go fast, Hanumana, and try and find out who these are.

Hanumana, taking the guise of a mendicant went down where Rama and Lakshmana were. 

Shabari

The brothers then left the jungle of grass and reached the river Pampa. They walked along the banks of the river. They saw animals and birds playing with their mates. Seeing this saddened Rama.
They had a bath in the waters of the river and continued their journey towards Rishyamukha. They approached the ashrama of the sage Matanga where they met Shabari. Seeing Rama, Shabari was delighted. She said Matanga Rishi was no more. Before he died, he had asked Shabari to be there in the ashrama and wait for Rama, who would come one day.
Shabari said her life's achievement was over now that she had seen Rama. She got a pile of firewood, lit a fire and entered the pyre taking the name of Rama.
Shabari was liberated.

With this ends Aranya Kanda.

PS. The story of Shabari offering fruits to Rama is not there in the Krritivasi Ramayana.

Kabandha

When the night fell, Rama and Lakshmana returned back to their empty hut. Rama said he did not want to reside there without Sita and would drown himself in the waters of Godavari. He hugged Lakshmana and the whole night, the two brothers kept crying, missing Sita.

When dawn broke, Rama and Lakshmana started their journey southwards. They entered a forest full of Kusha grass. They sat below a tree in the forest. Lakshmana said it was not safe to be in this place, as anything could be hiding in the grass. It was best to leave this place at the earliest.

When they got up and were about to leave when they came face to face with a rakshasha called Kabandha. This being had eyes nose and mouth in his stomach. He was huge in size.

Kabandha grabbed Rama and Lakshmana in his two hands. He said he would eat them up now but before making a meal out of them, he wanted to know who they were.

Lakshmana said instead of an introduction, it was time to teach him a lesson. Drawing out a sword, Lakshmana cut off the hand holding him. Rama similarly cut off the other hand.

Kabandha fell on the ground and then wanted to know they really were. Lakshmana then told him who they were. This reminded Kabandha of an earlier incident. He said he was a robber who was proud of his beauty. Vain, he had insulted the sages who had cursed him to become what he was now. He was also told when Vishnu, in his human form, cut off his hands; he would be liberated.

Knowing that he was going to die and go to the heaven he said he would help Rama. He asked Rama and Lakshmana to burn his body. Once free, he would tell them what to do next.

Lakshmana prepared a pyre and burned Kabandha. A handsome man came out of the pyre. He asked Rama and Lakshmana to go in search of Sugriva in Rishyamukha. He would be able to help them get Sita. Saying this, Kabandha vanished.

Jatayu dies

Rama could not recognize Jatayu. He said I think you are a demon who has eaten up my Sita. I will kill you at this instant.
Jatayu, vomiting blood, slowly spoke. He said - I know you are looking for Sita, but you will not find her here. I am dying because I tried to help Sita. When you two brothers were not at home, the king of Lanka carried away Sita. I have saved my breath so that I can meet you and tell you. Ravana cut off my wings. Think of way in which Ravana can be killed, O Rama.
Rama said O Jatayu, you are like a father to me. Tell why Ravana carried away Sita, when I have no problem with him. Who is this Ravana?
With great difficulty, Jatayu said - You killed Khara and Dushana and Lakshmana cut off the nose and ears of Surpanakha. To take revenge, Ravana has carried away your wife. Ravana is the son of Vishwashrava. He is pround because of boons that he received from Brahma.
Jatayu passed away in the company of Rama and Lakshmana. A chariot came from the heaven and carried the soul of Jatayu away.

Rama asked Lakshmana to light a fire. Lakshmana gathered wood and created a funeral pyre. They placed the body of the dead Jatayu on the wood pile. They lit the fire.

They then immersed the ashes of the bird in the river Godavari. 

Rama and Lakshmana start searching for Sita

With his bow and arrow in his hand, Rama was coming back. On the way he saw many ill omens. He saw a snake on his left and a fox on his right. He was not sure what this meant.
Maricha had imitated his voice, so probably Lakshmana had left an empty house and come to look for him. Then again, Lakshmana should not be fooled with this. He should not be leaving Sita alone. He appealed to the Gods to ensure that Sita was safe, when he saw Lakshmana coming towards him.
He asked Lakshmana why he had left Sita alone and come away. He said It seems today the Rakshasas will have carried away Sita. I told you to take care of Sita. Why did you leave her alone? Dandaka forest is full of rakshasas and other ferocious creatures. I do not blame you, it is my destiny. The magical deer took me to the forest. As you said earlier, it was Maricha. If you go deep, you will see him lying dead.

Thus talking the two brothers, walking swiftly, reached the hut. They started calling out to Sita. Rama said I will die if I do not see see Sita. Seeing the house empty, someone has carried her away.

They started looking everywhere. They looked around everywhere, searching the banks of river Godavari, looking on the mountains, looking inside caves. Sita was no where to be found. Rama had tears in his eyes. He asked all if anyone knew where Sita was. Rama said Maybe she has gone somewhere with a wife of one of the sages, or she is playing hide and seek. I may have lost my kingdom but I had my queen with me. Today that is also gone. It is like the sun sinks in the sea at the end of the day, my light has gone away from my life.O creatures of the forest, have you seen Sita?

Going a bit into the forest, Rama saw a broken chariot wheel and some jewels. Rama said Maybe Sita is somewhere close by. These jewels seem to be Sita's. Seeing a mountain close by, Rama said maybe the mountain had swallowed Sita. He said he would cut off the mountain.

Lakshmana said it was not correct to cut off the mountain. Why would the mountain take Sita away?

Rama said he would then destroy this world. Lakshmana said this was not correct.

They looked everywhere, near the lakes , trees to see if Sita was anywhere. Whoever they saw, they would ask if they had seen Sita.

Searching around, they saw Jatayu covered with blood.