Kumbhakarna awakened

Ravana felt very insulated, having had to return back from the battlefield, defeated. He realized Nandi's words were coming true.
After having defeated Kubera, when Ravana was returning home, he had stopped at Mount Kailasha. There he had met Nandi, who was guarding the door of Shiva. Ravana had said he wanted to meet Shiva and Durga but Nandi had not allowed him. Ravana had then insulted the monkey faced Nandi. Nandi had cursed him saying the monkey that he had taunted would result in his end. Ravana had a boon to return victorious in battle in all except man and monkey, and that was coming true now. Ravana realized it was time to wake up Kumbhakarna. Kumbhakarna, who slept for six months.Five months were over, one more month was left. But there was no time, he had to be woken up.

Ravana asked people to gather food for Kumbhakarna. Various types of meat and drink were arranged.

It was huge long room where Kumbhakarna was sleeping. So big was it, that it was impossible to see the complete room standing in one place. On a big gem studded cot lay the sleeping demon.

The rakshashas who had come to wake up Kumbhakarna were flying around in the room, being dragged around by Kumbhakarna's inhaling and exhaling.

The clever ones carefully stepped int the room with barrels of drink. Countless musical instruments were played. Cold sandalwood paste on Kumbhakarna's body to wake him. Goats and sheep were brought in, who went inside his nose but never came out. When smell of food and drink did not wake him, the rakshashas started hitting Kumbhakarna with rocks and trees. The huge demon was injured but did not wake.

What to do? A demon suggested getting women to lie next to Kumbhakarna. All the demon did was turn on his side, and the women fled in fear. Now that Kumbhakarna had turned, food was brought closer to his nose. With a big yawn he sat. 'Why was I woken up, untime;y' He asked.

Ravana was informed that Kumbhakarna was awake. Ravana wanted to meet him. This was conveyed to Kumbhakarna. The demon washed his face and finished all the food in front of him.

Ravana's first day of war

Vibhishana said to Rama he would help identify who was coming. Holding a gem studded bow was Ravana. On his right was Indrajit, whose skin was the color or clouds and who had copper colored eyes. He was was the one who had bound Rama and Lakshmana. Nagendra and Devedra were with Ravana, who had helped Ravana on his victory over the Gods.

Sugriva was angry seeing Ravana. Lifting a huge boulder, he hurled that at Ravana. Shooting ten arrows, Ravana cut off the boulder. Ravana then shot arrows at Sugriva, who fell on the ground, but was alive.

Rama lifted his bow but Lakshmana stopped him saying, he would go and fight Ravana. Rama said Ravana was no ordinary warrior. He had won over the three worlds and one would have to bve very skilled to fight Ravana. Lakshmana said he would go anyways.

Hanumana told Lakshmana to stay back while he dealt with Ravana. After him, Lakshmana could fight Ravana. Taking Lakshmana's blessings, Hanumana went to face Ravana.

He jumped onto Ravana's chariot and flung the charioteer from the chariot. He then said - So far, your battles have been won because of Brahma's blessings. Face a Vanara today.

Ravana said - You should be the one to worry. You have fallen in my hands, where will you go.

Hanumana said You seem to have forgotten how easily I killed Akshyakumar and others.
Saying this Hanumana slapped Ravana. Ravana fell senseless on the chariot, living only because of Brahma's boon.

Regaining consciousness and getting up, Ravana said to Hanumana - You are brave and strong.
Hanumana said Fie on my strength. You are living.

Ravana then slapped Hanumana, who fell off the chariot onto the ground.

Seeing Hanumana fall, Ravana attacked Nila. Hanumana got up and said - Is this your war? While fighting one, you attack another?

Not caring, Ravan akept fighting Nila. Nila was in pain. He made his size like that of a mongoose and jumped on Ravana's chariot and climbed on the flag post. When Ravana looked up, Nila jumped down on his bow. From there Nila jumped on Ravana's head. When Ravana tried to catch him, Nila jumped on his crown. Nila kept avoiding Ravana. Nila kicked off the crown from Ravana's head. He then urinated on Ravana's head. Finally Ravana shot an arrow catching a glimpse of Nila.The arrow struck Nila, but he did not die.

After Nila and Hanumana, Lakshmana came to face Ravana. Ravana shot arrows at Lakshmana, who cut them off. Seeing his arrows go waste, Ravana released more powerful weapons on Lakshmana which struck him, and soon his body was red from the blood flowing.

Lakshmana somehow managed to control himself and cut off Ravana's bow and chariot. Ravana changed his bow and chariot and shot arrows at Lakshmana which were countered.

Ravana then remembered a spear that he had got from Brahma. He flung that at Lakshmana. Lakshmana tried to cut it off, but the spear hit him. Lakshmana fell on the ground.

Seeing LAkshmana fall, Ravana tried to lift him up to take him to Lanka, but was unable to move Lakshmana's body.Hanumana saw this. He came and hit Ravana. Reeling, Ravana fell on the ground. Ravana fled from there.

Hanumana then carefully lifted Lakshmana and took him away from there. Rama saw this. He caressed Lakshmana with his hands and Lakshmana came to his senses.

Rama then went to face Ravana.

Hanumana said to Rama - Ravana is riding a chariot and you need a chariot too, Climb on me and I will take you there.

Rama went to Ravana, on Hanumana's back.

Ravana saw this and decided to attack Hanumana as he would not be able to fight back, with Rama in his shoulder.

Hanumana was being showered with arrows. He was in a dilemma. He started growing in size. His body became huge and his tail became fifty yojanas long. Seeing the huge tail of Hanumana, Ravana remembered Vali and was scared.

Rama showered arrows at Ravana, and he, struck by them, fainted. When he came to his senses, Rama said - Go back. I spare your life.

Rama cut off the ten crowns on the ten heads heads of Ravana, and Ravana ordered his charioteer to take the chariot back to Lanka. 

Taking a break

Will be taking a few days break - Work pressures. Hopefully I will restart again, next week.

Ravana decides to go to battle

Ravana made an announcement  - Any one who knows how to hold a bow, come with me. I will enter the battlefield.

Getting his army and generals, Ravana set forth for the battle. He climbed on his gem studded chariot, stacked with various weapons. A massive noise was created when the musicians played instruments, celebrating Ravana's journey. The wind lowered its intensity and became a gentle breeze and the sun also mellowed down its rays. This happened as they were scared of Ravana.

Rama saw Ravana's crown shining in the sunlight. He asked Vibhishana who was this who was approaching. Vibhishana said it was Ravana coming, riding on a chariot designed by Brahma. He had got this by defeating Kubera. 

Prahastha

When Ravana got the news of the fall of Bajradanstra, he was worried. He called for his maternal uncle, Prahastha. He asked his uncle to go and save Lanka.
Prahastha said it was a simple task and he would easily get Rama and Lakshmana, dead or alive.

With a great fanfare, Prahastha entered the battlefield. The sky was covered with weapons, rocks and trees. Four generals of Prahastha's army came forward. They attacked the eastern gate. Nila was not able to fight these warriors, and seeing this Angada, Mahendra and Devendra joined Nila. The generals fled. The vanara warriors then saw Prahastha and rushed towards him. Angada killed a rakshasa called Mahanad. Hanumana started fighting a rakshasa called Mahahanu. Hanumana, in jest, said - You are MahaHanu and I am Hanumana. As our names are similar, let us become friends.
MahaHanu said - If you are my friend, why should I fight you.
Hanumana then said - Let me then make an end of you.
With a tight slap, Hanumana felled MahaHanu.
The other vanaras killed the other generals.
Prahastha saw this. He shot arrows at Nila, who was standing at the eastern gate. Angered, Nila hurled a huge rock. The rock smashed Prahastha's head.

Ravana heard this. He was devastated. He decided to enter the battle field himself. 

Bajradanstra

Ravana was worried hearing the news of Akampana. He sent for Bajradanstra and asked him to get ready for war. He got ready and came to Ravana for his blessings. Getting the best of the weapons with him, Bajradanstra left for the battle. Following him was a large army of elephants. On the way, he saw many ill omens. He saw blazing comets in the sky and tears in the eyes of the horses drawing his chariot.
He spoke to his army - Ignore the omens. Lookout for my strength and valor in the battle today. You will forget about the omens. I am not known as Bajradanstra for nothing. I have teeth like thunder bolts. I will eat Sugriva, Rama and Lakshmana.

The battle began. Trees, rocks and arrows covered the sky. Sugriva seeing chaos in the army went to face the demon. Throwing a huge rock, Sugriva broke the chariot of the demon. Uprooting a tree, he then smashed the demon's head.

Seeing the demon fall, his army started fleeing.

Ravana got the news of the fall of Bajradanstra.

Akampana

Hearing the news of Dhumraksha's fall, Ravana called for Akampana.
He asked the brave rakshasha to go and capture Rama and Lakshmana and bring them to him.
Akampana was about to leave when a vulture came and sat on his chariot. His hands were also shaking. These were ill omens.
Akampana went ahead and attacked the western gate. Dust flew everywhere from the fight that was happening between the two armies. Three vanaras, Mahendra, Devendra and Kumud came to see who had come to fight.
They started showering trees on the rakshasa. The rakshasha cut off the trees and the vanaras fled. Nila and Nala came next and they were defeated too.
Hanumana came next. The rakshasa showered arrows on Hanumana, Hanumana lost his balance and fell down. Getting up, he uprooted a tree and flung it at Akampana, who cut it off with his arrows.
Not sure what else to do, Hanumana jumped on top of the chariot of Akampana. Catching him by hair, Hanumana dashed him on the ground, killing him.

Ravana was sent the news of Akampana's death.

Dhumraksha

The two armies met and the sky was overcast with arrows, trees and rocks. Dhumraksha called out - Where are the hermits hiding? Come and face your death. You have come so far to die. Forget any hopes of getting back Sita.
A vanara said - You have eyes but are still blind. Else how can a mere mortal bridge the ocean. Vishnu has been born to put an end to the rakshashas.
Angry, Dhuraksha picked up a mace and started killing vanaras.
Hanumana saw the vanaras fleeing. He went and said to the rakshasa - Fight me, if you can.
Grabbing a huge boulder , Hanumana dashed it on the chariot of the demon, killing the charioteer and the horses.
Dhumraksha attacked Hanumana with his mace. The mace hit Hanumana and broke into pieces.
Hanuman slapped him, and the demon fell down.
Hanumana then started kicking him, and that killed the demon.

Seeing Dhumraksha fall, his army started fleeing. Some went to Ravana and told him about the fall of Dhumraksha. 

Rama and Lakshmana saved

The vanaras were grieving for Rama and Lakshmana. All heroes sat there wondering what to do. Sugriva said they would take Rama and Lakshmana somehow to Kishkindha andsee if there were medicines available to treat them.
Vibhishana heard the crying noises. He was not sure what had happened. He came out to see. Seeing Vibhishana, the vanaras thought Indrajit was coming again and they started fleeing. Angada stopped them while both Indrajit and Vibhishana looked similar, this was Vibhishana who was coming there.

Vibhishana started grieving saying Rama and Lakshmana.

Rama slowly said - Vibhishana do not grieve. Sugriva, you return to Kishkindya with your army. Take care of Angada, whose father was killed by me. Hanumana - you go to Ayodhya and inform Bharata about my condition. Go to Kaushalya and Kaikeyi and give them my news. Sita will remain captive. Please also tell mother Sumitra about my position. Lakshmana, my dear brother, is senseless, bound by the snakes.

In the heavens, Indra was worried. He said to Vayu, Ravana's son had defeated me and that is how he got the name Indrajit. He has bound Rama and Lakshmana. They both are losing their breath slowly. Go to them. Tell Rama to think of Garuda. Garuda will be able to free them.

Vayu went there as a gentle breeze and asked Rama to think of Garuda, the vehicle of Vishnu. Rama thought of Garuda.

In the island, Kushdwipa, Garuda was having a meal of pythons when he felt someone was calling him. He got ready leaving the meal aside. He rose to the sky and started flapping his wings. So great was the force, that trees started falling down. The creatures, large and small, started hiding afraid of Garuda.

Garuda went where Rama and Lakshmana were. Feeling Garuda's breath, the snakes binding Rama and Lakshmana fled. Garuda then gently rubbed Rama and Lakshmana's bodies. Rama and Lakshmana regained consciousness.

Rama said you have done a great favor to me, by granting me my life.

Garuda said I am your servant. I have done my duty. You are none other than Vishnu and I am here to serve you.

Rama said Ask for something.

Garuda said I want to see you in the form of Krishna. The form playing a flute, adorned with flowers on the body. The body bent to one side. Wearing yellow garments and having earring shaped like a makara (half elephant, half fish).

Rama said In middle of a battle field how will I take the form of Krishna. What will the vanaras think?

Garuda said, No one will see a thing. I will form a hut with my wings and in that you will show yourself to me as Krishna.

Garuda created a shelter with his wings, and there Rama changed to Krishna.

Hanumana was wondering what was happening. He then saw Rama change into Krishna.
He did not like that and said he would take revenge on Garuda for this, for getting Rama to change into Krishna. When Krishna is born, I will then get my revenge.

Hearing this Garuda smiled and flew off. Rama was back in his original shape. Lakshmana then got up. The wind coming from his wings, revived all the fallen vanaras.

Vanaras started shouting cries of Victory.

Ravana was sleeping when he heard this. He got up and went to see what was happening. He was surprised to see Lakshmana standing guard. How could someone escape from the snake weapon? Now Lanka was doomed.

He called a warrior called Dhumraksha and asked him to get ready and go to the battlefield. A pious person, he saw many ill omens while going for the battle. Ignoring those, he proceeded further and entered the  field.

Indrajit binds Rama and Lakshmana with snakes

Ravana was furious having been insulted by Angada. He called his army commanders and asked for a solution. He said to Indrajit, Go kill Rama and Lakshmana. First deal with Angada. Meghnad or Indrajit, got himself ready for the war. He set forth on a silver chariot drawn by eight swift horses. With an army of many soldiers and elephants, he started. The ground shook with the trampling of the animals  the soldiers and the musical instruments being played by the army.

He attacked the eastern gate, showering arrows on the vanaras there. The vanaras retaliated by showering rocks and trees. The vanaras killed many rakshasa soldiers.
From the eastern gate, Indrajit went to the southern gate where he saw Angada. He said - You abused my father and ran away like a coward. You have no shame, you that one who killed your father.
Angada said - My father dies because your father abducted Sita. You are a dynasty of thieves.
Indrajit started showering arrows and Angada, angry broke his chariot.
Indrajit jumped and went into the sky and hid behind the clouds, from where he could see the armies fighting. He saw the vanara Sampati attacked by rakshasas. Sampati, wounded lifted a huge tree and hurled that and killed many rakshasas. Then using his tail, he strangled a few. A rakshasa called Tapan, riding on an elephant attacked Nila. Angry Nila jumped on the elephant and killed Tapan. Vidyutmali, another rakshasha came there. Hanumana saw this and attacked him. The rakshasha shot a few arrows at Hanumana. Brushing the arrows aside, Hanumana jumped onto the chariot of the demon and pulling him by his hair, tore his head off and flung it to the ground.
Subarna, a rakshasha entered the battle field, with a chariot full of liquor pots. He would have a drink and shoot arrows. Soon the sky was dark with his arrows. Nila seeing this grabbed a wheel from the chariot of Vidyutmali and flung that at Subarna. Subarna avoided the wheel, and wheel like a boomerang, went and came back with great force, and the force of the wheel cut off the head of Subarna.

Lakshmana entered the battle field and started showering arrows, killing many demons. Indrajit saw his army being destroyed by Lakshmana. He decided that it would be difficult to fight Lakshmana face to face. Hiding behind the clouds, he called Rama and asked him to come forth and fight.

Hiding, he showered arrows on Rama and Lakshmana. Seeing this the entire vanara army rushed to the rescue of Rama and Lakshmana. All went except Vibhishana, who was not aware of the situation.
Indrajit kept showering arrows, and Rama and Lakshmana were not sure how to fight someone they could not see. Seeing this, Indrajit released an arrow that released countless snakes.

The snakes went and coiled themselves around Rama and Lakshmana. Soon it was difficult to make out Rama and Lakshmana, as they were fully covered head to toe with the writhing snakes. Unable to breathe and also because of the venom of the snakes, Rama and Lakshmana fainted.

Indrajit started back for Lanka to tell Ravana about the victory. He said to Ravana - Hear the cry of the vanaras, grieving for the dying Rama and Lakshmana. Of all the battles I have fought, this has been the toughest. The vanaras destroyed my chariot and army and I had to hide behind the clouds to fight them.

Praising Indrajit, Ravana went to Trijata and asked her to take Sita in the Pushpaka chariot and show her the dead Rama and Lakshmana.

Trijata and Sita went where Rama and Lakshmana were lying. Sita, seeing this, started crying. Trijata then told her that Rama and Lakshmana had not lost their lives and would live. Saying this, Trijata took Sita back to the Ashoka garden.

Angada in the court of Ravana

Angada saw all the great warriors of Ravana coming in and taking their places in the court. He saw all except Kumbhakarna there, who was in his sleep, oblivious of the trouble looming over Lanka.
Ravana was saying - A bunch of vanaras and Rama have come to attack Lanka. They do not know my power.
The others assembled said they were not afraid. If Kumbhakarna woke up, all the vanaras would get eaten up by him. Indrajit would kill the vanaras using his arrows, so the vanaras were not be feared. They were a bit wary of the vanara who had come night and burned the city dow, and had seen Sita in the Ashoka garden.
Angada then landed in the middle of all and increased his size, till his head touched the ceiling. The guards fled seeing Angada. Angada saw Ravana sitting on a tall throne on a high pedestal. He coiled his tail to form a tall tower and sat on that. All were in awe, seeing Angada and his size.
Seeing Angada, Ravana, an expert in illusion, formed multiple Ravanas in the court. Every where he looked, he could see Ravana. He looked closely and saw Indrajit sitting quietly. Angada asked him - Tell me truly, who is your father? Who is that for whom you bound Indra? Your mother I heard is a pious woman, then how can she have so many husbands. Who is that Ravana who was defeated by Kartavirya Arjuna? Who is that Ravana who suffered defeat in the hands of Mandhata? Who is that Ravana whose sister was captured by the rakshasa Madhu? Who is that Ravana who was bound by my father?

Hearing all this, Ravana unable to control himself, lifted the illusion. Ravana said - You have invited your death by coming here.  Who are you, and who has sent you?

Angada said - You may remember Vali and Sugriva from Kishkindhya. There Vali had bound you by his tail. I am the son of that Vali, and my name is Angada. You do not know Rama, but you brought Sita over.
Rama has come over, and you sit inside and do not come out. No one will left in your dynasty once Rama has finished with you.

Ravana said - What does Rama think me to be, that he comes with a army of monkeys. I understand the capability of Rama and that is why he was sent out from his home. He roamed in the forest with his woman. Rama is not capable of defeating Ravana. Tell Rama to break the bridge he built. Bring Vibhishana to me. Let him beg for forgiveness. Bring me the vanara who burnt my Lanka. I will punish him well and then release him. Let Rama also beg for forgiveness.

Angada said - It is our wish also to leave and break the bridge. And Hanumana has been driven away from the army.

Ravana laughed hearing this. He wanted to know why Hanumana had been driven away. Angada said - My Uncle, Sugriva, had told Hanumana to get the head of Kumbhakarna and a captive Ravana, when he returned. Sugriva wanted to kill him for failing, but Rama said he should be spared. Thus, he was driven away.

The rakshashas looked at Angada. Angada said - Know for sure Ravana, that your death is in the hands of Rama. Enjoy all your luxuries while you can. Find out from your wives, who will come along with you when you die. You are a learned person and spoiled your own life by your misconduct and misdeeds. Rama is Vishnu and Sita is Lakshmi and you did not realize that . You had forcibly brought over women of Devas, that did not satisfy you and you got Sita over, thus inviting your death. You have no alternative other than to take refuge of Rama.

Ravana said - Shame on you, who born in a royal home, has to serve a human. You serve him, who killed your father.
Angada said - Forget me . Your mother was a rakshashi, your father a brahman. Why are you a rakshasha if you were born of a brahman. Rambha treated you like a father in law, and you raped her. Throw away your pride. You have faced defeat in the hands of many. Be ready to die now.

Ravana said - Rules say a messenger should not be killed and that is why I suffer you.

Angada said You have gone mad, so die. Vibhishana left you in the right time. Look at Surpanakha's face and know what Rama can do. Rama killed that Vali who easily defeated you. I can easily take care of you, but is Rama's job.

Ravana asked - Tell me how many warriors do you have in the army, who are as cunning and strong as the one who burnt my city?

Angada said - There are many brave warriors in our army. If you think Hanumana was bravest and the strongest , try me. Listen to me - Rama willll kill you and Lakshmana will kill Atikaya and Indrajit.

The rakshashas tried to catch hold of Angada then. Angada jumped up along with rakshashas holding him, and jumping down, dashed their heads on the ground, killing them. Angada started thinking what should he take back for Rama. Hanumana gave to Rama the jewel from Sita. What should I give?

He saw the gem studded crown of Ravana. He jumped on Ravana. The two started fighting. Throwing Ravana aside, Angada snatched his crown,. Ravana fell flat on his face, on the ground. Rakshasas tried to catch him, but Angada was quick. He took a big jump, and landed back in the middle of the vanara army.

Angada told Rama what had happened and gave the crown to Rama. Rama was pleased and hugged Angada.

Shiva and Parvati quarrel

Rama and his army of the vanaras climbed up on the huge mountain and went to the top to have a look at Lanka. Lanka was full of houses made of gold and silver. Flags were flying on the houses. It was a beautiful city and Rama wondered how a king like Ravana became a king of a city like this.

Taking orders from Rama, Sugriva arranged for vanaras to stay guard and surround the city of Lanka. Nala was given charge of the Eastern gate of Lanka. Angada was given charge of the Southern gate. Hanumana got charge of the Western gate where Rama and Lakshmana were also stationed, and Nila was given charge of the Northern gate. Not satisfied fully, Sugriva asked the sons of Sushena, Mahendra and Devendra to support Angada in the Southern gate. All vanaras had their armies along with them, guarding the gates. Sugriva then asked Sushena to guard the Western gate along with Hanumana. Sugriva himself went and joined the Northern gate.

The Gods in the heaven came to see this. Parvati was sitting in a corner. She asked Shiva - Are you not sad that a devotee of yours is nearing his death?

Shiva said, If you are so concerned, then you go and take care of Lanka. Ravana tried to become immortal but he could not achieve that. Now, Rama is on earth who is none other than Vishnu. How do you suppose Ravana will be saved? I do not have the strength to save Ravana.

Gods smiled seeing Shiva and Parvati fight, knowing that soon Ravana would be dead.

Rama waited for five days but Ravana's army did not attack. Not a single move was made. Rama asked Vibhishana if he knew the reason for this. Vibhishana said he was not sure and it would be good if a messenger was sent to Lanka to get the reason.

Rama decided to send Hanumana. Jambuvana said Hanumana had been there once, and seeing him again will anger Ravana. It was best to send someone else. Angada is a very brave warrior, and he will be the right choice for the task.

Sushena went told Angada that he was being called by Rama. Angada asked if he should come alone or come with his army. Sushena asked him to come alone.

Angada came and bowed down to Rama. Rama said Go to Ravana. Taunt him. Provoke him by saying something.

Angada said he would kill Ravana.

Sugriva said that was not necessary. If Angada could tell Ravana to come and surrender to Rama, that was enough.

Vibhishana said Tell my brother to think of my words. When I had told something to him, he had rewarded my advise with a kick.

Angada took a large leap and landed inside the city of Lanka.

Ravana shows to Sita, Rama's head

Ravana said he was sparing the lives of the spies as they had done him great favors earlier, and told them to get out of his sight. Mahodar, a rakshasa said a person who was capable of performing this job had to be selected and then sent, not just anyone. He suggested the name of Shardul. Shardul with four of his friends went where Rama was camping. There, they were captured by Vibhishana. The vanaras caught the rakshasas and started pulling their hair and hitting them. Only because a spy was not be killed, their lives were spared. They were bound and taken to Rama.
Rama said he would not kill a spy. He said Tell Ravana instead of sending spies, let him come himself.
Shardul went back and told Ravana what had happened. He too praised Rama and asked him to return Sita and make peace with Rama.
Ravana was disturbed. He sent for a rakshasa called Vidyutjivha. He said he had abducted Sita to make her his wife. Now Sita was not willing to accept him. Ravana then said - You are a master in the arts of illusion. Create a head of Rama. Also create a bow this is like Rama's bow. I will take that to Sita and she thinking her husband is no more, will accept me.

Vidyutjivha sat and started meditating. Intense was his meditation that by the power of that, Rama's head and bow were created. With the basic head and bow ready, the rakshasha then created the hair and ornaments. He then presented that to Ravana. With that head and bow, Ravana left for the garden where Sita was.

Going to her, he said - For long I have been telling you about Rama, and you never listened to me. You tell me about about the qualities of Rama. I went to where Rama was and cut off his head with my sword. Seeing Rama fall, Lakshmana left for his land. All vanaras have been gravely injured and lie with legs and hands cut off. To show you the proof, I bring to you, the head of Rama.

Saying so, the head was shown to Sita by Vidyutjivha.

Sita started crying - She said O Lord, you lost your life in a foreign land and Lakshmana left you and left for Ayodhya, fearing his life. Where have you gone, leaving me. Ravana, give me the sword that you used to cut my lord, and I will cut off my head, myself.

Ravana kept smiling while Sita kept crying over Rama's head.

Suddenly loud cries of Joy To Rama, were heard.  Ravana fled with the head.

Ravana went to his court and called his ministers for an urgent meeting.

Sita was crying when Sarama went there. Seeing Sarama, Sita said she had been waiting for her and wanted poison so she could kill her herself. Go and let me know why Ravana suddenly left along with the head of my Lord.

Sarama taking the form of a bird, flew where Ravana was having a meeting. The ministers were saying it was too late to return Sita, all that was needed was Ravana to go and fight Rama and put an end to him and his army.

Ravana's mother came there and told him to make peace with Rama and return Sita.
This angered Ravana and he said if this was said by someone else, he would have put an end to that person. Ravana's grandfather, Malyavan, also asked Ravana to return Sita, which Ravana rejected.
Ravana then said he wanted the great warriors to guard the gates of Lanka and make sure the enemy was not able to come in.

Sarama heard all this. She flew back to Sita. Taking her own form, she told Sita all that she had heard and seen.

Taking the name of Rama, Sita dried her tears.

Sukha and Sarana see Rama's army

In Adi kanda Rama got married.
In Ayodhya kanda Rama got exiled.
In Aranya kanda Sita was abducted
In Kiskindhya Kanda Rama met Sugriva.
In Sundar Kanda the ocean was crossed.
In Lanka kanaa a fight with Ravana and in Uttar kanda Sita will enter the nether world.

Ravana called Sukha and Sarana. He said You are intelligent. Go to Rama's army and observe them. Try to find out their strengths and weaknesses and report back to me. How was it possible to build a bridge over the ocean, something which had not been heard of.

Sukha and Sarana took the form of vanaras and entered the army and started mingling around.
Vibhishana saw the two and he immediately recognized them. He immediately caight hold of them. They pushed Vibhishana aside and tried to flee. Sugriva seeing this uprooted a large tree and flung that at the two rakshashas. The two cut off the tree. Taking their maces in their hands, Sukha and Sarana started attacking the army. Sugriva seeing this, asked the rakshasas to try hitting him on his chest, if they had the courage. Surgiva stood in front and the moment the maces struck his chest, they broke into pieces. The rakshasas were then tied up and taken to Rama.

Afraid of their lives, the two said they were spies sent by Ravana to observe the army and report back the same in Lanka.

Vibhishana wanted to kill them, but Rama said it was not good to kill a spy. He asked the spies to report back to Ravana what they saw. Rama said - Ravana abducted Sita when there was no one in the hut, and fled to Lanka. Tell Ravana that I will kill him and his sons.

The spies went back to Lanka and reported back to Ravana. They told him that they had been spotted by Vibhishana and had been freed by Rama.

They praised Rama and his army, which angered Ravana, who said he would put an end to the whole thing. 

Bhasmalochana dies

Ravana was disturbed when he heard this. He called Bhasmalochana, who had the power to burn anything that he looked at. Ravana asked him to go and burn the vanaras.
Covering his eyes and riding a leather chariot, the demon approached the place where Rama was.

Vibhishana saw this from a distance. He said to Rama - There comes Bhasmalochana, who, if removes the leather covering on his eyes, will burn anything he looks at.

Rama asked what was the way to kill him.

Vibhishana asked Rama to create mirrors using arrows. The demon seeing his own reflection would burn himself.

Rama created millions of mirrors. The demon, when he removed the covering, saw himself and got burnt.

This was the first victory of Rama against Ravana. Ravana got the news. 

Bridge is built

Rama sent for Nala. Nala came and bowed down at Rama's feet. Rama said I having problems crossing the ocean and you did not let me know you had the power to help me.
Nala said I am an ordinary vanara. There are bigger heroic vanaras in the group. How can I say something in front of them. Let me tell about my childhood days. I used to live near the lake Mansarovara. Brahma used to come to meditate at the banks of lake. I used to throw Brahma's kushi (a copper spoon used for worship) in the waters of the lake. Everyday Brahma would get a new kushi, and everyday I would throw it in the water. Brahma then said whatever you throw in the water anywhere, will float. If touched rocks and trees together, they would stick to each other. Brahma's boon will help me build a bridge for you. Let the vanaras get boulders, rocks and trees. I will use that to build a bridge in a month.
Sand, trees and rocks were thrown in the ocean and they stuck together and floated. Thus in a day, one yojana was finished. Taking the name of Rama, the vanaras began getting hills which were broken into pieces and placed in the ocean.
In places, on the bridge, small huts were built for Rama to stay in. The work proceeded smoothly.
Hanumana got a hill for Nala, and Nala took it using his left hand. This angered Hanumana. He got a huge mountain, broke it into two - and taking one part in his tail and the other in his hand, he moved swiftly towards Nala. Nala sensed Hanumana was angry, so he went to Rama and asked for help. Hanumana did not dare cross over Rama, so he came down and placed the mountain pieces there. Rama asked Hanumana the cause of his anger. Hanumana said when he got the rocks for Nala, he took them using his left hand, which was not a good sign.
Rama said do not loose your temper. A worker uses his left hand more and that should not anger you. Please concentrate on the actual objective. Rama had Nala and Hanumana hug each other and forget their differences. The mountain pieces that Hanumana had got were put on the bridge. Ten yojanas of the bridge became ready.
A bunch of squirrels seeing this decided to help. They rolled in the sand and went to the bridge and went and threw that sand there, filling the gaps.
Hanumana seeing this removed the squirrels from there. The squirrels went to Rama and told him that Hanumana was not letting them help.
Rama called Hanumana and told him what he had done was not good. Everyone was helping as much as they could and their efforts should be appreciated.
Hanumana realized his mistake.
Rama then placed his hand over the squirrel.
Hanumana went and told the other vanaras not to say anything to the squirrels.
Seventy yojanas were bridged in twenty days. Hanumana then jumped over to Lanka, broke pieces of the fencing and got that for the bridge building.
In a month, the bridge was built.

With the bridge completed, Nala went to Rama and reported the same. Rama pleased said I do not have anything to give you now except my blessing. When I am in Ayodhya, I will give you rare precious gems.
Nala said I do not need that. I need something else, which is priceless. I want you to place your foot my head- the foot that Lakshmi worships.

Ramam placed his right foot on Nala's head.

Ramam then said Let us all go to the bridge which Hanumana was guarding. Rama with Sugriva and Vibhishana went to the bridge.

Rama then said to Nala - Please erect a small place where I plan to worship Shiva. A small enclosure was made on the bridge and a white Shiva Linga was constructed there. Rama asked Hanumana to get him white lotuses. Hanumana set forth for Kailasha where the lotuses bloomed. Plucking a thousand lotus flowers, Hanumana got them for Rama.

Rama began his worship. Shiva came there and held his hands saying Why do you worship me Rama, when I worship you.
Rama said You are my Lord and I am a devotee of yours. Please accept my worship so that I can kill Ravana.

Shiva said - Ravana is my devotee. He brought forth his doom by abducting Sita. He will die in the battle. Go to Lanka and finish your task.

Rama started his journey with Lakshmana, who were followed by Sugriva and Vibhishana.

The air was ripe with the sounds of Victory to Rama.

The demons hearing this went to Ravana. 

Vibhishana meets Rama

Vibhishana bowed down and took the blessings of Shiva, Kubera and Parvati. Along with his four friends, they started for the place where Rama was.

On the banks of the ocean, the vanaras saw Vibhishana approaching along with his friends. Thinking this was Ravana coming, they armed themselves with rocks.
Vibhishana shouted saying he was Vibhishana and he was coming to serve Rama. The vanaras went and told this to Sugriva. Sugriva and Jambuvan started discussing what they needed to do. Afterall the rakshasas were known for assuming various shapes. Hanumana said Vibhishana had appealed to Ravana to spare his life, when he was in Lanka. If Vibhishana becomes a friend of Rama, that will be of great help.

Rama hearing this said he would welcome anyone who came to him, with open heart. Rama said he would tell Sugriva about Shibi.
Shibi was great king. There was a kite once chasing a dove. The dove fell in the lap of the king and asked for shelter, which the king granted. The kite came demanded the dove, as it was his meal. The king said the dove had taken his shelter, and it was it his duty to protect the bird.
The kite said If you want to protect the bird, give me part of your flesh, equal to the weight of the dove. The king agreed.
With a sharp knife, the king cut off parts of flesh from his body which the kite ate. The king was covered with blood. The king thus attained heaven for this deed of his.

Rama said, Forget Vibhishana. Even if Ravana comes and asks for shelter, I will not turn him back.

Hearing this, Sugriva jumped up and greeted Vibhishana and then took him where Rama was. Vibhishana fell at Rama's feet and introduced himself. Rama asked Vibhishana if he had been sent by Ravana. Vibhishana said if that was the case then let him become of brahman of Kali Yuga with a thousand sons.

Lakshmana laughed and said a rakshasha was asking to become a brahman and asking for a boon of thousand sons. Rama said a brahman of Kali was different. This brahman is a sinner. He has greed, passion and anger inside him and is always sinning. His sons would be greater sinners and he would never attain peace.

Rama said he would declare Vibhishana the king of lanka, after Ravana.

Sugriva then wanted to know if Vibhishana knew of a way in which the vanara army could cross over to Lanka.

Vibhishana said to Rama, the ocean was formed by your ancestors. Pray to the ocean and undergo fasting. The ocean will appear before you and tell you the way.

Rama fasted for three days but the ocean did not appear. Rama then said to Lakshmana The ocean was very proud and was not appearing before him. He would soak up the entire ocean with the fire arrow,

Ramam took the arrow and fitted it on his bow and released it. Such was the effect that the ocean started gradually drying and the fishes started dying. The arrow went inside the ocean. Sagara was scared to see the arrow.

Sagara came and fell at Rama's feet. He said Why do you perform a task like this? Your ancestors created the ocean and you are bent on destroying it. What have I done to deserve this?

Rama said For three days I was fasting, and you did not appear before me. I need to cross the ocean and rescue Sita. I need a way to cross.

Sagara said he would not be able to part ways for Rama. He knew an alternate way. The vanara Nala had the power to float stones and rocks. If he flung anything in water, that thing would float.

Saying this Sagara went back.

Vibhishana goes to Kailasha

Vibhishana told his friends I want to go and serve Rama but I am not sure if Rama will accept me. If Rama does not accept me, I will live in a forest and meditate on the name of Rama. My mind is restless. I am planning to visit my eldest brother, Kubera, who stays in Kailsaha and who is friend of Shiva.
The friends agreed, and using the path of the sky, Vibhishana and his friends reached Kailasha.

Shiva saw this and said to Parvati. See there, Vibhishana is coming to meet his brother. He had tried to talk sense to Ravana but was insulted. If Kubera is not able to convince him to go to Rama, then I will need to do that. I am planning to go to Kubera. It was necessary that Vibhishana goes to Rama. Then Ravana would die.
Shiva said to Nandi to get his bullock ready. With Parvati in front, Shiva climbed up on the bullock and started for Kubera's abode.

Kubera saw Shiva approaching. He came to greet Shiva and Parvati. Shiva and Kubera greeted each other. Shiva was made to sit in Kubera's palace and Parvati and the followers of Shiva were also given places to sit.  Shiva and Kubera started talking when Vibhishana came there with his four friends.

Shiva, seeing Vibhishana coming, said to Kubera - Vibhishana, the younger brother of Ravana, is coming to you. He had asked Ravana to return Sita, which Ravana refused. Ravana also insulted him, which is why he has left Lanka. He wants to serve Rama but has a few doubts. Send him to Rama. His going to Rama will help Rama win over Ravana.

Vibhishana saw Shiva along with Kubera. He was delighted. Shiva was someone whom the Gods wanted to see but were unable to, and here he was, in front of Vibhishana. Vibhishana came and fell at the feet of Shiva and Kubera. Shiva blessed him and Kubera hugged him. Vibhishana then told them about his conversation with Ravana and his leaving Lanka.

Kubera asked Vibhishana to proceed where Rama and Sugriva were and asked him to serve them.
Vibhishana was quiet. Shiva then said - What are you thinking? Do as your your elder brother tells you.

Vibhishana said he had also left Lanka, leaving his family behind to go to Rama but he had some doubts. He said - If I go to Rama now, people will say I have left Ravana as his bad days have come. If Rama later makes me the king of Lanka, people will say I wanted to become king which is why I went to Rama.

Shiva said Go to Rama as we tell you. Rama is none other than Narayana. Rama is born on earth to take care of his devotees. Go to Rama and serve him. There will be some people who will always talk. Those things should not be listened to. Once devotion arises in the heart, one needs to go to his God. People will remember you as one who served Rama. If you were going to get the kingdom of Lanka, things would have been different. Prahlada was the cause of the death of his father and was later made the king by Narasimha. Does anyone say anything bad about him?  Ravana has become evil and he needs to be destroyed. Go to Rama without any doubt in your mind.

Vibhishana then bowed down in front of Shiva and Kubera.

Vibhishana leaves Lanka

Rama said he not seen anyone as great as Hanumana. I am not sure what to give you now. Come to me and hug me.  Saying this, Rama extended his hands.

Hanumana guided Rama and others towards the ocean. The chattering of the vanaras could be heard everywhere. Soon they were in front of the ocean. They made small huts with leaves and branches of trees and started living there.

In Lanka, Ravana's mother, Nikasha, sensed that things were not right. She went to Vibhishana. She said You are the righteous one. Ravana is living a life he has earned from pleasing the Gods, Now, he will destroy everything by having forcibly captured Sita. He is not realizing what he has done. I do not wish to live here anymore. See if you can talk some sense to Ravana.

Vibhishana, accompanied with some of his friends went to Ravana. He said All was well till you got Sita here. I have been having nightmares. I see vultures flying around. I hear the howling of foxes. I see a old dark woman looking at Lanka.

Ravana refused to listen to this. What could Rama and a group of vanaras do. He called his ministers and asked them for advise. He asked them how would he able to kill Rama.

The ministers asked the king not to worry. They said they would think of a way to get rid of Rama and the vanaras. They were armed with great weapons and that would be put to good use. They said they were waiting for a signal from Ravana to start a war and kill Rama and Lakshmana.

Vibhishana asked them to be quiet. Send Sita back. All will be peaceful. Lanka will be saved.

Ravana became angry. You talk as if you are elder than me. You talk as if I am a sinner and you are the good one. I do not wish to have a person here, who is scared of humans.

Vibhishana tried again. You are not recognizing divinity and purposely have closed your eyes. You are acting like the blind who cannot distinguish between a stone and a gem. I still say, Do not waste your time. Return Sita. This beautiful land will be saved. I am speaking for your good. When a rogue elephant enters the forest he destroys everything in its path. He also takes with him the domesticated elephants.

Ravana could not stand all this. He stood up. I have captured the Gods and till date not one single person had the guts to speak to me thus.
Ravana jumped down from his throne and kicked Vibhishana on his chest.

Prahastha, a minister of Ravana, caught Ravana and made his sit. he made Vibhishana and his four ministers sit.

Vibhishana said He was not hurt because of Ravana's behavior. You are blinded by luxury. I am leaving Lanka. I am sad as the entire dynasty will be destroyed because of you.

Ravana said I know of people who cannot stand the prosperity of others. You are jealous as I have conquered the Gods. Leave Lanka and Go. Leave us in peace. Go and live with my enemy and be known as a traitor.

Vibhishana said Whatever I had said was for your good. I am leaving you. It is only because you are elder to me, I have tolerated you. I am going to Rama. If there is anyone who wants to join me, please come along with me.

Vibhishana took leave of Ravana, and taking the path in the sky went in the direction of his mother. Four of his friends, Anil, Anal, Bhim and Sampati, who were sons of Mali, decided to go along.

Vibhishana went to his mother. He told her what had happened and took leave off her. He then went to Sarama, his wife. He told her he was going to Rama to seek his refuge. Be with Sita. Take care of her.

Saying this, Vibhishana left Lanka. 

Hanumana goes to Rama

Hanumana carefully placed Sita's jewel in his body and went to the shores of the ocean. Climbing on a mountain, he jumped upwards towards the sky. He let out a loud roar which could be heard everywhere.
On the the other side of the ocean, hearing this, Jambuvana said Hanumana is on his way back, having achieved his objective.

In a blink of an eye, Hanumana reached the other end of the ocean. He came greeted the vanaras and bowed down to Angada. He then hugged Jambuvana and the other vanaras. He then had his fill of fruits, which the other vanaras got for him.

Hanumana then told them all about how he crossed the ocean, how he met Sita and how he finally burnt the city.

The vanaras then decided to go back and tell Sugriva and Rama what had happened. They went off and reached the garden of Sugriva. This was a garden full of honeycombs. None had permission to come there. Seeing the honeycombs, they wanted to have the honey but were afraid of Sugriva. They went to Angada and asked for his permission. Angada agreed.

The vanaras then started attacking the honeycombs and had their fill of honey. Intoxicated with honey, they started fighting among themselves.

A vanara who was guarding the garden tried to stop them but got beaten up. He went to Sugriva and told them what was happening.

Sugriva went to Lakshmana and told him what was happening. Rama wanted to know who were these vanaras. Sugriva said these were the great heroes who had gone towards the south. They had probably got news of Sita and which was they were celebrating their joy.

Rama said I am very pleased to hear this. Please send for Angada and Hanumana immediately.

From a distance Rama saw Hanumana approaching. He was wondering what kind of news Hanumana was bringing.

Hanumana bowed down in front to Rama and touch his feet. He then told him about what had happened. He then gave to Rama, the jewel that Sita had given.

Rama had tears in his eyes.

Hanumana goes back to Sita

Sita was worried about Hanumana. Sarama, who was there with her told her not to worry. She told Sita what had happened between Ravana and Hanumana and how Hanumana had set fire to Lanka but was not burnt himself.

Hanumana then came to Sita. He said he needed help from her. He had, after burning down the city, had tried to extinguish the fire of his tail, by immersing his tail in the ocean. That had not helped at all. He wanted to know how he could extinguish the fire.

Sita told Hanumana to put the tail inside his mouth. Hanumana put the burning tail in his mouth. The fire went off.
Hanumana went to the ocean and in the reflection,  saw his face had got burnt. He went back to Sita. He said I came in search of you and my face got burnt. When I go back, all will make fun of me.

Sita said do not worry. From today all vanaras will have a burnt face.

Hanumana then said he would take leave and go to Rama. Rama would then come and kill Ravana.

Sita blessed Hanumana.

Lanka burns

Ravana was in his court surrounded by his ministers and sons. On his ten heads, ten grand crowns glittered.

Ravana asked Hanumana who he was. Hanumana said I am a messenger of Rama. I am the one who destroyed your garden. I could have torn off the bindings, but I wanted to meet you, which is why I did not. That Vali who had defeated you, has been killed by Rama. Rama became friends with Surgiva to defeat you. You and Kumbhakarna will die in the hands of Rama. I will not kill you as that is something Rama needs to do.

Ravana ordered Hanumana to be killed. Vibhishana got up. he asked Ravana to stop. Killing a messenger was not correct. If that was done, no one would use messengers. Messengers will praise the one they serve. As a punishment you can shave off the head of a messenger.

Ravana then ordered Hanumana's tail to be set on fire. Ravana said it would be fun for Hanumana to go back with a burnt tail. Hanumana then started increasing the size of his tail. Ravana remembered Vali's tail. He asked the rakshasas to grab the tail. All available cloth in Lanka was brought and the tail began getting wrapped in that. Oil and butter was then poured on that.

Ravana then ordered that Hanumana be paraded around Lanka and then his tail should be set on fire. People came in hordes to see Hanumana. Hanumana knew that fire would not harm him, as he had been blessed by Sita. He went along. People started throwing rocks and stones at him. His tail was set on fire.

Sita heard this and was scared. She started praying to Gods to prevent any harm to Hanumana. The Gods appeared and said as per her boon, Hanumana would not be hurt or harmed by fire. Hanumana would soon burn Lanka.

Hanumana suddenly made himself tiny. The ropes tying him fell down. Hanumana then came back to his normal size and started throwing rocks and trees at the people.

He then started jumping around, swinging his tail, burning whatever came his way. Assisted by his father, Vayu, Hanumana, set fire to the houses he saw. Soon the houses were blazing. Many rakshasas started dying, getting burnt in the fire. Many jumped into water to escape the fire and got their faces burnt.

Hanumana happily went about burning what came his way. Vibhishana, Kumbhakarna, Ravana and their families did not burn.

Hanumana suddenly realized that maybe he had burnt Sita also in this exercise of his. Wondering what to do, when the Gods appeared before him and told him Sita was safe.  Hanumana, with renewed vigor went around burning what he could. 

Hanumana captured by Indrajit

Hanumana approached the mango trees. They had fenced to prevent animals from stealing the fruits. Hanumana made himself tiny and climbed up one of the mango trees. He then started shaking the branches. This scared the birds resting on the trees, who started to fly around.
The rakshasas guarding the trees looked up and saw a monkey jumping around. They decided to deal with the monkey later. Rakshasas, who had been sleeping, went back to sleep.

Hanumana had his fill of the fruits. He then started tearing off the leaves from the trees. Not satisfied, he started breaking branches and then started uprooting the trees.

The rakshasas got up and saw the entire mango grove destroyed. They started shooting arrows and started throwing other weapons at Hanumana, who cleverly dodged the weapons. Hanumana, then started uprooting trees and started throwing them at the rakshasas. Like a mad elephant, Hanumana attacked and killed many of the rakshasas.

The rakshasis guarding Sita went to her and asked her who the monkey was. Sita said it would an illusion of the rakshasas and she had no idea who the monkey was.

The rakshasas rushed to Ravana and reported to him about the monkey. Ravana asked a rakshsa called Mura to go and kill the monkey. Mura went and saw Hanumana sitting on a fence. He started throwing weapons at Hanumana. Hanumana dodged the weapons, Breaking off a pillar, Hanumana smashed Mura.

leaving only the tree under which Sita was sitting, Hanumana started uprooting the trees in the grove. Many rakshasas died.

Jambumali, son of Prahastha, a minsiter of Ravana, decided to go and deal with Hanumana. The warrior shot many arrows at Hanumana, which pierced him. In pain, Hanumana, uproot a Sal tree and flung that at the Jambumali. Jambumali cut off the tree with his arrows. Hanumana uprooted rocks and hurled those, which were also cut off. Hanumana spotted a mace and hurled that. That killed Jambumali.

A brave rakshasa, Dhumralochana, decided to attack Hanumana. He went prepared with weapons. Hanumana saw Dhumralocahana coming. He reduced his size and hid in the fence. The rakshasas looking for him, could not find him. Thinking the monkey had fled, they went homewards. Seeing them leave, Hanumana hurled large boulders at them and killed them. Some rakshasas feld and reported to Ravana about the death of Dhumralochana.

Akshaya, a son of Ravana, decided to go and kill Hanumana. He left on his chariot, and approached Hanumana. He went to Hanumana and said he was Akshaya, son of Ravana and he had come to put an end to Hanumana. He then started shooting arrows, which Hanumana avoided. Some arrows pierced Hanumana. Hanumana then jumped on Akshaya's chariot and killed the horses and the charioteer. Akshaya feld sky wards. Hanumana, seeing this chased Akshaya. He caught Akshaya by his legs and dashed him on the ground, killing him. He then sat down on the fence.

News of Akshaya's death reached Ravana. Ravana then called Indrajit and asked him to go. He told him that great warriors had gone, and no one had been able to capture or kill the monkey. Indrajit said he would capture the monkey. Indrajit set forth. Ravana said he heard of Vali, Sugriva and Hanumana and if one of them had come, then it would be very tough fight.

Indrajit saw the monkey sitting on the fence. He started shouting at Hanumana. Hanumana also started shouting back at Indrajit talking about the evil deeds that Ravana had committed.

A war started and none was able to take control of the other. Indrajit knew of a weapon called Pasha which had the ability to capture its prey. Indrajit shot that arrow. Hanumana was captured and fell on the ground. Hanumana first thought of tearing off his binding, which he was capable of. Then he decided to use this as an excuse to meet Ravana.

The rakshasas came and started tying up Hanumana's hands and feet. They then started dragging him towards Ravana's court. Hanumana started increasing his weight, and the rakshasas could not move him a bit. Hanumana asked the rakshasas to announce his arrival by playing instruments and also asked them to carry him on their shoulders.

Trumpets were blown and Hanumana then went forth on the shoulders of many rakshasas. When they came towards the door of Ravana's court, Hanumana increased his weight and the rakshasas could not carry him anymore. When the rakshasas left him, Hanumana increased his size such that he was much larger than the door. The rakshasas reported this to Ravana.

Ravana ordered the door to be broken. Seven doors were broken to make way for Hanumana. Hanumana then got up and walked inside Ravana's court.

Trijata's dream and Hanumana meets Sita

Out of the rakshasis there was one called Trijata who had problems keeping awake at night. She had slept off and woke up having had a nightmare. She went to the rakshasis who were tormenting Sita and drove them away. She said Sita would bring upon their downfall. She said she would tell them about the dream that she had. Leaving Sita, they all went to listen to the wise Trijata. Trijata said - I saw an old dark woman dressed in red. She had a noose around Ravana's neck. She was rubbing dark ink on Kumbhakarna's face. She was setting fire to Lanka. Rama and Lakshmana were there to rescue Sita and were leaving on the Pushkpaka,  This dream seems to be something that will come true. Leave Sita alone.

Hanumana, sitting on the tree laughed hearing this. The rakshasis slowly went off to their homes and left Sita alone. This was the chance for Hanumana. He wondered how he would address Sita. If he said he was Rama's messenger, that would probably not be the right way. Wondering what to do, he started telling the story of Rama, sitting on the tree, loud enough for Sita to hear.

Hearing the name of Rama, Sita looked up and saw a small monkey on the tree. Hanumana folded his hands and Sita said I think you are a spy of Ravana, sent to tempt me. If you are truly a messenger of Rama, then from today you will become immortal. Weapons will not harm you. Fire will not destroy you.

Hanumana started praising Rama. He then told Sita what had happened from the time Rama had gone after Maricha. He spoke about Sugriva, about Sampati and about his crossing the ocean. He then said if she was still not convinced, he had proof from Rama and would share the same with her. Hanumana came down and gave Sita, Rama's ring, which Sita took with folded hands. She had tears in her eyes. She then told Hanumana what she knew. Vibhishana, Ravana's brother, was a religious person and he had asked Ravana many times to return her back. There was a rakshasa called Arvind who had also advised Ravana. Vibhishana's daughter, Sananda, sent her mother to come and take care of Sita. From her, Sita said, she had heard that Ravana would not return her without war.

Hanumana said Please climb on my back, I will take you across to Rama. Sita said you are so small, how will you take me? With a smile, Hanumana started increasing his size till his tail touched the skies. Sita said I am amazed to see you. Now I wonder if I will be able to hold on to you while you cross the ocean. What if I fall in the sea? Please return to your original form, as this is scaring me. Let Rama come and rescue me, and take me away.

Hanumana resumed his normal form. Sita said Please inform all at home about my plight. Please tell them I have only two months left, after which Ravana will kill me.

With tears in his eyes, Hanumana said Mother, do not grieve. I will go back and within a month Rama will come to Lanka.
Sita pulled a jewel out of her hair and gave that to Hanumana. She asked him to give that to Rama.
Hanumana decided to return back. He then thought it would be fun to meet Ravana and then go away.

Sita said to Hanumana that there were mango trees in the garden and he could have the fruits. She also asked him to be careful as the rakshasas would come and attack him. Hanumana said there was no cause to worry.  Sita pointed out to the trees.

Ravana comes to Sita

Second part of the night was over. The moon was in the sky and a gentle breeze was blowing. Ravana got up and wanted to see Sita. Followed by gurads and many women, Ravana came to the garden where Sita was. Hanumana decided to wait and see what Ravana said and did. He hid himself in the leaves of the tree. Sita tried to hide herself but was unable to.

Ravana said - Why do you try to escape from me. You are a beautiful woman and I have lost my heart to you. Even in dirty clothes your beauty lights up my garden. You have led your life so far, worshiping Rama and have only got grief. Come to me and you will be happy. Forget Rama who leads the life of a hermit. He may not even be alive, and probably has become the meal of a rakshasha. I have fought and defeats Gods, Yakshas, Danavas, Kinnaras and Gandharvas. Where does a mere human stand? I have wealth in my house, that is unthinkable. Say it, and all will be yours. I know of the arts of love making. I will play around with you. I beg off you to accept me. Ravana who has never bent his head before anyone bends his ten heads in front of you.

Angered, Sita said slowly - I am the daughter of Janaka and wife of Rama. Rama will kill you and end your dynasty. Even if you manage the nectar of immortality, Rama will find a way to slay you. You are proud of Lanka, saying it is impregnable. Rama will destroy it. Let me tell you something that is in your favor. Return me to Rama and become his friend. You are falling at my feet which means I deserve respect. Then how can you say such horrid things about me. Rama is my life. Rama is my God. Sita knows no one else other than Rama.

Ravana said - I had given you time of a year. Out of that, ten months are gone and you are left with two months only.

Sita said - Do not think of my death. It is you, who will die. Think of the differences between you and Rama. You are no where close to Rama. If Rama is a lion you are a dog.

Ravana was angered. He picked up a chopper and decided to put an end to Sita. Mandodari came and caught his hand. She said - Remember the curse of Nalkubera. If you touch a woman against her wish, you will die.

Ravana threw down the weapon and called for the rakshasis who were guarding Sita. He told them to talk to Sita and get some sense in her head. Saying this, Ravana left.

The rakshasis started telling Sita - Accept Ravana. You will not get a husband like him in the three worlds. Rama is not wealthy. Ravana is. Accept him.

Sita said - Even if Rama is poor, Rama is mine.

Hearing this, the rakshasis decided to kill Sita. They said they had to keep awake and guard the whole night, Their life had become miserable. Some pulled Sita by her hair. Sita with unkempt appearance starting crying - Where are you, O Rama. Help me. If there is someone listening to me, do go and tell Rama about my misery. Let my tears not stop. Let Lanka be destroyed.

Thus Sita cursed Lanka.

Hanumana finds Sita

Hanumana started moving around in Lanka. It was a wonderful city with houses studded with gems. He saw a fort and was about to enter that when he saw a ferocious female figure there, holding a chopper in one hand and a double edged sword in the other. Her eyes were glowing like burning embers and her breath was hot like fire. She had a huge tongue hanging from her mouth and she had matted hair on her head. Her body was the color of rain clouds. She was wearing tiger skin as clothing and had a garland of skulls around her neck.

Hanumana was scared seeing her. He quietly approached her and said - I have heard of you , O Chamunda, beloved of Shiva, I am scared of you. Why are you here?

The Goddess said she was there to guard Lanka and had asked to do so by Brahma, when he had created Lanka. She had asked Shiva how long she would have to stay in Lanka. Shiva had said when Rama would send Hanumana, a vanara to Lanka, would the time for to leave.

She asked Hanumana, who he was, why he was there and how he had crossed the mighty ocean.
Hanumana said he was a servant of Rama and a friend of Sugriva. His name was Hanumana and he had come there as Rama's messenger. Chamunda, hearing this, left for Kailasha.

Hanumana started exploring the area. He saw groves of coconut and beetle nut trees. He heard the rustling of birds in trees. He observed the fencing which was made with gold and iron. he went around simultaneously wondering what the vanaras could do, to defeat Ravana. Getting the vanaras across the ocean would be tough. Never having seen Ravana, he wondered how he would recognize him. How would he recognize Sita?

Hanumana decided to wait till the sun set and decided to then venture out. He hopped around, observing the houses which looked wonderful. He made himself as tiny as a mongoose and then moved around. Moving about he saw no sign of Sita. He then decided to look inside the houses. He entered the house of Ravana which was the biggest house. It was guarded by ferocious rakshasas. Inside he saw the Pushpaka chariot driven by Pawan himself. Father and son greeted each other, and Hanumana continued searching. In a room he saw Ravana sleeping surrounded by apsaras who were singing away. Near Ravana he saw an extremely beautiful woman. This was Mandodari, daughter of Maya and the wife of Ravana. Hanumana thought this was Sita, for a moment. Then he thought, Sita will not do such an act. This had to be someone else. Sita would kill herself rather than be with Ravana.
He moved around exploring different rooms, wondering whether he had come to the right place.

Sad, he went out of the palace. He saw a garden with Ashoka trees in it. Along with there were many other flowering plants. Climbing up on a fence, he looked around. This garden was the only place that he had not explored. He jumped from the fence into a large banyan tree and climbing on top of the tree, looked around. He saw trees of different shapes. Near a tree he saw rakshashis standing, with weapons in their hands. He saw a frail looking beautiful woman sitting below a tree, surrounded by the rakshashis. In intervals, the woman was taking the name of Rama. Hanumana was convinced that this was Sita. He was saddened to see her grief.

Simhika

Hanumana was spotted by Simhika, the rakshashi as he was on his way. Hanuman was huge in size, Simhika thought this would make a good meal for her. She had the power to capture her prey by grabbing its shadow,. She grabbed the shadow of Hanumana and started dragging it towards her mouth.

In the sky, Hanumana wondered why his speed had slowed down. He looked around and could not see anything. Lookimg downwards, he saw the rakshashi pulling him, using his shadow. He realized he needed to do something. Making himself tine, he quickly entered the mouth of Simhika. Going inside her body, Hanumana tore her heart out and then made a hole in the body and came out. Simhika died and the creatures of the ocean made a meal out of that.
The Gods blessed Hanumana. They said they had stopped travelling over the air as they were afraid of Simhika. Now, having gotten rid of Simhika, Hanumana had done everyone a big favor.

Going forward, Hanumana saw the shores of Lanka. He decided to make his size smaller and jumped onto the sands of the beach of Lanka.

The moment Hanumana landed in Lanka, Ravana's left eye started throbbing. Something bad was to happen. Sita's left eye also throbbed. Something good was to happen.

Hanumana, having traveled a great distance was not tired at all.