Lakshmana banished

Time or Kaala came to Rama in the guise of the sage. Rama was in court and Lakshmana was standing guard. The sage came to Lakshmana and asked for audience with Rama. Lakshmana went to Rama and said there was a visitor. Getting permission from Rama, Lakshmana brought the visitor inside.
The sage said to Rama, I have something personal and private to discuss with you. Promise that if anyone interrupts, that person will be banished for ever. One person is to stand guard at the door and not let anyone inside.

Rama asked Laksmana to stand guard. He said Please stand guard and do let anyone inside. If anyone enters, that person will be banished forever. Stand guard and be careful.

The sage and Rama went inside a room. The sage aid Rama, I am Time. I have come to remind you that your time on this earth is getting over. You need to return to your celestial kingdom.
Rama said he would do the same.

Brahma then sent the sage Durvasa there. The sage came and met Lakshmana. He said he wanted to meet Rama. Lakshmana said Rama was busy and would come meet him, when he was free.

Durvasa was angry and said He would burn the city of Ayodhya if he was not allowed to go inside.
Lakshmana thought If he was able to save the city from being destroyed, he was fine to take the banishment on his shoulder.

Lakshmana took Durvasa inside. Seeing Durvasa, Time left. Rama greeted Durvasa and asked what he wanted. Durvasa said he was hungry and had not eaten for a year and needed to be fed. Durvasa was fed.

Rama was in a dilemma. If he did not banish Lakshmana he would be known as a person who did not follow his word. If on the contrary he banished Lakshmana, he would be dead.

He asked the sages in the court what to do. They said It was proper for Rama to banish Lakshmana.

Lakshmana said It would be proper to listen to the sages.

Rama had tears in his eyes. All people in the city had wet eyes. Lakshmana took leave of all.  He stepped into the flowing waters of the river Sarayu.

Rama was heartbroken. He said there was no point in leading this life anymore. Bharata said If Rama went, he would leave also.

Rama asked Bharata to send for Shatrughna. Shatrughna crowned his Subahu the king of Mathura and left for Ayodhya.

Messages were sent everywhere that Rama had decided to end his life. Vibhishana with his rakshsas and Sugriva with the vanaras came there.

To Vibhishana Rama said Rule Lanka wisely.

To Hanumana, Rama said As long as people remember me, your name will also be taken.

Hanumana said Wherever your name is taken, I will make myself present there.
Rama said By the boon of Brahma You will be immortal. Till Sun and Moon are shining, you will remain here.
To Jambuvana, Rama said Be young again. If I am on this earth again, I will meet you once more,

Rama divided his kingdom among Lava and Kusha and decided to leave. 

Kingdom divided among sons

Rama ruled the kingdom for eleven thousand years. Slowly Kaushalya, Kaikeyi and Sumitra passed away.

One day the king of Kaikeya came to Rama and asked for his help. His land was being attacked the Gandharva Lomesha.
Rama called Bharata. He said Go to the land of your mother. Defeat the Gandharva and then make your sons the kings there.

Bharata went there and defeated the gandharvas. The sons of Bharata - Pushkara and Taksha were made kings there.

Sons of Lakshmana, Angada and Chadraketu were also made kings. The kingdom of Malya was given to Angada and Chandraketu got the land of Ahshwa.

Shatrughati and Subahu, sons of Shatrughna took over the kingdom of Mathura.

Ayodhya and Nandigrama was divided between Lava and Kusha. 

Lakshmana falls

The people said to Rama Two boys Lava and Kusha had captured the horse. When Shatrughna had tried to get the horse back, a battle had happened and Shatrughna had fallen.
Rama was shocked. How could this happen.
Bharata and Lakshmana said a warrior went to battle to fight and was not sure if he would return back alive or not.
Lakshmana said I knew something like this would happen when Sita was asked to leave, without any fault of hers. If you permit now, we two will go and get the two boys for you.

Rama agreed. Bharata and Lakshmana left with their armies. They came Valmiki's ashrama was. They saw the ground and realized it would be fierce battle. Seeing Shatrughna lying, they could not control their grief. They said Valiant One, who killed Lavana on the banks of Yamuna, lies on the ground.
The lieutenants came and said this was not the time for sorrow. They got and got ready.

Sita heard the noise of the army. She asked Lava and Kusha what was the noise about.
The boys said Mother Do not worry. It must be a king who has coming hunting. We will go and see what they want.

Pacifying Sita, the boys went to see who had come. Seeing the two boys, the people said it seemed that twin Rama was standing there. If only Rama himself was there, it would have seemed like tree Ramas there.

Lakshmana and Bharata were amazed. They wanted to know who these boys were.

The boys said Our family tree should be of no interest to anyone. There are twelve hundred boys who learn from Valmiki and we are two of those. The sage has gone somewhere leaving us to guard this place. See Shatrughna, son of Dashratha, lying there. He came to fight us and met his end with his army. Who are you?

Lakshmana said We are four borthers and of that the youngest is Shatrughna. Do you think you will escape after killing Shatrughna?

A battle started. While Kusha and Bharata fought, Lava fought with Lakshmana. Bharata was riding on an elephant while Lakshmana was on a chariot. Lakshmana was amazed to see the skills of archery of the brothers and wanted to know who had taught them this. He said I was able to kill Indrajit, the valiant son of Ravana. I did not fear that but today I feel scared of my life. I will not think more and will fight away.
Seeing Lava's battle, Lakshmana's army started fleeing.
Lakshaman tried all the weapons that he knew and all were combated by Lava. Soon Lakshmana's quiver was empty. Lakshaman surrendered. Lava said I will not let you escape back. You will meet your end today. if you can dodge my arrow, I will not kill you.
Lava then invoked a weapon of Shiva. Lakshama fell, struck by that arrow.

With Lakshmana falling, Lava went to assist Kusha.

Sita's exile

Taking leave of the subjects, Rama was quiet. He had tears in his eyes. He decided to go for a bath in the river. Going along, he went and stepped into the water, unnoticed. As fate would ahve it, Rama heard two people talking and decided to quietly listen to them. This was a conversation between a man and his son in law. The man was saying - Seeing that you are a good family, I had married my daughter in your house. Why have you driven her out of your house? She has come to me alone, in the night, and is at my house now.
The son in law said - Let your daughter stay in your house. I have no need for her, in my house. She had stepped out of the house and I had no idea where she was. I am not Rama that I will take back my wife, after she has spent ten months in the house of the King of Lanka.
Hearing this, the father in law went away.
Rama heard this and realized that what Bhadra had said was not a lie. Rama went back into this quarters.
He saw a five month pregnant Sita lying on her cot, being served by her maids. They were asking her what Ravana looked like. Sita said she had no idea and only seen his shadow. When the maids asked what the shadow looked like, Sita drew a picture of the floor. Feeling sleepy, Sita lay down on the floor. When Rama came close to Sita, he saw her lying next to the picture of Ravana.
He decided to send Sita away. He came out. He thought - Why father had sent me away because of truth. I need to do the same. The Gods had said Sita was pure. I am know Sita has not sinned but what do I tell the people.
Rama sent for his brothers and told them what was going on in his mind.
He asked Lakshmana to leave Sita in the ashrama of a sage. Valmiki's ashrama was the place where she should be. Sita herself had expressed her wish to live in the ashrama of a sage. He asked him to tell Sita to leave with him and go to the ashrama of Valmiki. You and Sita will go in the chariot and you will leave Sita in the ashrama of Valmiki. Do not take anyone else with you.
The brothers tried to talk to Rama. If Sita is angry and curses the kingdom, everything will be lost. if you want to leave Sita, build a palace for her, and let her stay there.
Rama said that will not stop people from talking.

Lakshmana finally took a chariot and arriving at Sita's quarters, went inside and stood with head bent.
Sita said Are you angry with me? Maybe because I had something bad that may have hurt you, when we were in the forest. Sit and talk to me. Why are you quiet?

Lakshmana said You are the queen and I can come and talk to you when I get orders from the king.
Saying so, he bent down and touched her feet.

Sita asked him, why he had come.

Lakshmana said - You had said to Rama that you wanted to visit the sages. Rama has asked me to take you there. Take whatever you want with you and let us leave.
Sita went to gather gifts for the sages and their wives.

Lakshmana said As per the orders of Rama, we will be going silently. No one should know that we are leaving for an ashrama. Sita's maids wanted to go with her, but Sita asked them to wait. I will be back soon, after meeting the sages.

The whole world was grieving when Sita left. The animals and birds had tears and the trees also stood drooping.  Sita said - Something is not right. Is this because I did not meet Rama and my mother in law before I left.
Sita saw a snake on her left and fox on her right side.
She said to Lakshmana - I see too many ill omens. Let us return back. We will go some other day.

Lakshmana was quiet. He had tears in his eyes. He could not go against Rama's wishes and did not want to hurt Sita.

Lakshmana said Do not worry. We are on the banks of Yamuna.

Sita saw the tears in the eyes of Lakshmana. She said I am scared. What pains you Lakshmana. Please tell me.
Lakshama said It in the orders of the Rama, that I have come to leave you in the forest.
Saying, he told her what Rama has asked him to do, and the reason for the same.

Sita said Why did Rama not say this to me himself? If he did not want to keep me, why did have me go through the test in Lanka, to prove my purity? I am going to kill myself in waters of Yamuna.

Lakshama controlled her and keeping her near the ashrama of Valmiki, he left.

Fruits from fourteen years and birth of Rakshasas

Starting his tale, he asked Rama - Before I tell you about the rakshasas, please tell me how you fought the rakshasas. Who killed whom?

Rama said Of the principal rakshasas, I killed Kumbhakarna and Ravana, and Atikaya and Indrajit were killed by Lakshmana.

The sage said Indrajit was a great warrior. He had bound Indra and taken him captive. Brahma had to come and beg for his release. He had knowledge of nearly all weapons. As Lakshmana was able to defeat him, he must be the greatest of warriors.

Rama said Kumbhakarna andRavana were great warriors. The Gods were not able to defeat them. Why then do you talk about Indrajit leaving them?

The sage said No ordinary person could have killed Indrajit. Only that person who had not slept for fourteen years, not seen the face of a woman for fourteen years or eaten for fourteen years could have killed Indrajit.

Rama said I myself gave food to Lakshmana. We lived in the forest with Sita. How then did Lakshmana not see her face. Lakshmana would retire for the night in his hut. How then did he not sleep?

The sage said, Call Lakshmana and ask him these questions.

Rama asked Sumantra to get Lakshmana.

Lakshmana was sitting with Sumitra when Sumantra went there. Lakshmana wondering what Rama wanted to know, went with Sumantra.

Rama said to Lakshmana - I will ask you a few questions. Please answer them in front of all. For fourteen years we lived together. How then did you not see the face of Sita? You used to collect fruits for all and that was then divided among us, then how did you live without food. Also, you used to live in a separate hut, so when you used to go there in the night, did you not sleep?

Lakshmana said - Listen O lotus eyed one. When Ravana captured Sita, we roamed the forests looking for her. On the mountain we met Sugriva who gave us some ornaments of Sita. When you asked me to identify her jewels, I was not able to identify her necklace or earrings but I recognized her anklet. I had seen only Sita's feet.
Listen about my sleep. When you and Sita used to stay in your hut, I used to stay outside and guard with my weapons. When the goddess of sleep had come to me I had asked her to excuse me for fourteen years. I had told her to come to me when Rama had become king. When I held the umbrella over your head, sleep caught up with me then.
When I got fruits from the forest, you used to divide them into three and give me a portion of that. You used to tell me to take the fruit but never asked me to eat them. Without your word, how could I do so. The fruits are kept in our huts.

Rama asked Hanumana to go and fetch the fruits. Hanumana went to the place where the fruits were kept. He looked at them and said this quantity of fruit could have been brought by anyone. Why did Rama choose me?
As soon as he became proud, the weight of the fruits became heavy. Hanumana was unable to lift the fruits. He came back tired and frustrated and told that he was unable to get them. Rama then asked Lakshmana to fetch them. Lakshmana then went and got them easily.
Rama asked Lakshmana to count the fruits. There were fruits of seven days missing. Rama wanted to know what happened on those seven days.

Lakshmana said On day one, we had got the news of the demise of our father and we did not get any fruit. The day Sita was captured, we did not eat. The day we were bound by the snakes, we did not eat. The day Indrajit cut off the magical Sita, we did not eat. The when we were bound by Mahiravana, we did not eat. The day I fell hurt from the weapon of Ravana, I could not get any fruit. For the seventh day, that was the day when Ravana was killed. We were so happy, we forgot about food.
If you remember, when we were with Vishwamitra, we had the boon of controlling hunger. You may have forgotten the mantra, but I remember that.

Rama hugged Lakshmana.
To Agastya, Rama said You are great, You know what is in the minds of people. Please tell me about the rakshasas. I have heard that Ravana was a son of a brahmin. How then did he become a rakshasa.

Agastya said he would gladly tell.

When Brahma started his creation, the creatures created asked their creator their purpose.
Brahma said I would be creating more living beings on this earth. You would be their guardians. A few of them wanted to control all and were cursed by Brahma to become rakshasa.
A rakshasa named Heti wed a daughter of Brahma. They had a son. They left that child on a mountain and kept enjoying the company of each other.
The child began crying, and the cries were heard by Shiva. Taking pity on the child, Shiva asked the child to grow up as a handsome lad learned in all scriptures. The child transformed into a young handsome man. Parvati blessed this person and he became known as the father of rakshasas.
He got married and had three sons - Mali, Sumali and Malyavan.

Praying to Brahma they asked for control over there worlds. Brahma said they would have control till they would get defeated by Vishnu.
They got married and soon children were born to them. One of them was the rakshashi Kaikesi, who later became the mother of Ravana.

They then began attacking the heavens and captured Vishwakarma. They asked him to build a city for them. Vishwakarma was worried.
He then remembered the fight between Garuda and Pawana. A chunk of the Chitrakoota mountain had broken off and fallen into the ocean. It was huge and even the wind and Gods did not dare go there. This was Lanka. Vishwakarma converted this into a brilliant city surrounded by the ocean on all sides,

This city was handed over to the rakshasas who happily setup their kingdom there. This was later ruled by Ravana.

Ravana falls

Rama picked up the weapon and fitted it on his bow. Reciting the mantra, Rama released the arrow. The arrow struck Ravana and he fell down.

The Gods saw that and were not sure. There had been many instances when Ravana had fallen and gotten up again.

When the Gods were wondering, Rama thought for a while. This was devotee of mine who had been cursed to become a demon.

Rama said to Lakshmana - We have been in the forests for years now. We do not know the art of ruling a kingdom. Ravana is a great learned person. Go to him and learn all you can.

Ravana saw Lakshmana and said let me touch your feet.

Lakshmana said he had been sent by Rama to learn how to govern a kingdom.

Ravana said I am not sure why Rama wants to learn from me, when he knows all. Even then, if Rama wants to hear from me, I request you to please tell him to show himself. I am unable to get up and go to him.

Lakshmana went back to Rama and said Ravana would not say anything but was requesting to see Rama.

Rama went to Ravana.

Ravana looked at him. He said You are the Lord of the World. Please place your feet on my head. Forgive all my sins. You are the only One who exists.

Rama said I want to know from you. You had won over the worlds with your own force.

Ravana said I do not have much energy left and will say what I can.

Do not be a slave of laziness. Let me tell you of an incident.
One day I was passing the abode of Yama. In a corner in the south, I saw hell. I heard the plights of the people suffering there and thought of helping them. I then thought of coming back again. If I had fulfilled that task, hell would have vanished.

I am thinking of another incident. One day I wondered why the ocean was salty. It should made of cream and milk. I kept thinking of taking the salt out of the waters but I never was able to do it, as I kept postponing the task.

If you think you want to do something good, Rama, please do that then.

I once thought of creating a path to the heaven for all. I had thought of talking to Vishwakarma about this but never got down to do this. If I had, the path would have been there for all.

Let me tell you more. Laskshmana cut off Surpanakha's ears and nose. She gave me bad advise and I listened to her. If I had just listened to her and not paid heed to her words, we would not be seeing this day.

Soon Ravana became quiet. His soul left the body.

Ravana was no more,

Mahiravana captures Rama and Lakshmana

The night was half over. Vibhishana came to Hanumana. He said Do not let anyone enter the enclosure. Even if your father, the Wind God comes, he should not be allowed in either.

Mahiravana decided to go and capture Rama and Lakshmana. He went single handed. He saw Vibhishana outside the fort and was not sure how to go inside and capture Rama and Lakshmana.

He took the form of Dashratha and appeared before Hanumana. He said My sons are inside your enclosre. Please let me see them.
Hanumana said Please wait. Vibhishana will be coming soon. Let us do what he says.
Vibhishana came there and Mahiravana fled.
Hanumana said Dashratha had come to see his sons.
Vibhishana said No one should be allowed inside.

Mahiravana then took the form of Bharata and came to Hanumana. He said he wanted to see his brothers. Hanumana asked him to wait till Vibhishana came there.
Mahiravana left that place.

Hanumana told Vibhishana. Vibhishana said Do not allow any one. Saying he went on his rounds.

Mahiravana then took the form of Kaushlaya and said she wanted to see her sons. Hanumana told her to wait and Mahiravana vanished.

Mahiravana then took the form of Janaka and said he wanted to see his son in law. When Hanumana told him to wait, he too vanished.

Mahiravana then took the form of Vibhishana and came there. Hanumana said You just left a moment ago. Why did you come back so soon. Mahiravana, as Vibhishana, said I have come to warn you of the magic of Mahiravana. I have two talismans with me. Let me tie that on Rama and Lakshmana. They will be safe then.
Thinking it to be Vibhishana, Hanumana let him in.

Mahiravana first put all to sleep. Mahiravana picked up Rama and Lakshmana. Digging a tunnel, he took into his city. There, he put them in a room. Rama and Lakshmana were still asleep.
Mahiravana stayed back in his city.

Soon Vibhishana came on his rounds. Hanumana said You went inside to tie talismans on Rama and Lakshmana. When did you come out?

Vibhishana argues and convinced Hanumana that he was Vibhishana and no one else. Vibhishana said Then let us see if Rama and Lakshmana were safe.

Hanumana let Vibhishana inside and he himself peeped in. Rama and Lakshmana were missing. Everyone else was asleep. There was a tunnel in the ground.

All were shocked and did not know what to do.

Jambuvana then said Let Hanumana go and look for Rama and Lakshmana. he alone can perform this task.

Hanumana meets Bharata and Lakshmana is revived

Hanumana went back to the mountain. He started looking for the medicines. He then saw the gandharvas singing and dancing there. He went to them asked them to tell him where he could find the medicines.
The gandharvas said they obeyed only HaHa and HuHu who were their kings. Saying this they started attacking Hanumana. Hanumana also started fighting back.
HaHa and HuHu came to fight but were defeated by Hanumana. Hanumana then started moving from peak to peak but could not find the medicine.
Not seeing any other alternative, Hanumana tugged at the mountain and uprooted it. Many animals started running around. Trees fell. Hanumana jumped in the sky with the mountain in his hand.

Hanumana then flew over Kailasha and passed over Ayodhaya, while travelling southwards. Having heard a lot about Bharata,  He flew  Nandigram, where Bharata was living. Bharata saw something in the sky. It was huge and its shadow was covering the land. The moonlight falling on Rama's sandals was being covered. Who dared do this?  Now knowing who was this, Bharata gave a catapult to Shatrughna. Shatrughna aimed towards the sky. Taking the name of Rama, the catapult was released. The iron ball that had been propelled, hit Hanumana. Hanumana lost his consciousness. Still holding onto the mountain and the Sun, Hanumana landed in Nandigram. He started taking the name of Rama.

Hearing the name of Rama, Bharata came running. Bharata asked him who he was and how he knew Rama who had gone to the forests with Lakshmana and Sita.
Hanumana was in intense pain and was unable to speak.
Vashishtha then came there. The great sage knew what was happening in Lanka and had not said anything. He then said to Bharata, Why have you stopped this great person?
Vashistha, with some mantras, relieved the pain of Hanumana.
Hanumana then said all that had happened so far.

Bharata and Shatrughna broke into tears hearing the tale from Hanumana. Bharat then said I will come with you to Lanka. Shatrughna will handle Ayodhya.

Hanumana said Rama would not allow this. Bharata said Then go fast , Hanumana.
Hanumana said he had no strength left, after having been hit by the catapult.

Bharata then got an arrow. He asked Hanumana to climb up on the arrow along with the mountain and Sun. Hanumana was amazed to see Bharata's strength. He, who was able to lift Hanumana, the sun and the mountain on the arrow.

Bharata released the arrow. Withe speed of the wind, Hanumana landed in Lanka. All were stunned to see Hanumana come there with the mountain. Hanumana said he had been unable to recognize the medicine, thus he had got the whole mountain.
Rama said Hanumana , You are Great. There is nothing you cannot do.

Rama then asked Sushena to get the medicine. Sushena climbed on the mountain and started searching its peaks for the medicine. He got the herbs and made a paste from them. He then held the paste under Lakshmana's nose.

Blood started flowing in the veins. The broken ribs became like before. Slowly Lakshmana came to life. Lakshmana got up, and with tears in his eyes, Rama embraced Lakshmana.

Ravana fells Lakshmana

Ravana started a terrible battle. Whoever faced him, was being subdued easily. Vanaras were falling. Nala, Nila and mant others fell from Ravana's arrows.
Ravana told his charioteer to take him where Rama was.
Ravana saw Rama and was stunned. Instead of Rama, he was seeing the entire universe.
Ravana realized this was Vishnu. He was now happy. If he died, he would go to heaven. He decided to fight it out.

A fierce battle started between Ravana and Rama. Ravana's arrows pierced Rama and he took a break. Lakshmana seeing this, started the fight with Ravana. Lakshmana cut off the charioteer and the horses. Vibhishana, with his mace, smashed the chariot. Ravana looked at Vibhishana.

He said to Vibhishana - It is because of you that our dynasty is destroyed. He picked up a spear and aimed that at Vibhishana. It was a ferocious weapon. Vibhishana appealed to Lakshmana for help. Lakshmana cut off the spear with three arrows.

Ravana then picked a spear that was Yama's weapon. If it struck anyone, it would surely result in the death of that person. Ravana had got that to kill Rama. He aimed that at Vibhishana. Lakshmana cut that off.

Ravana then remembered a spear that he had got from Maya, his father in law. He picked that up and aimed it at Lakshmana. He said You saved Vibhishana, now let me see if you can save yourself. Think of your dear ones, as you will die now.

Gods in heaven were terrified to this terrible weapon speed towards Lakshmana. This spear, called Shakti, would kill who ever it was aimed at.

Rama saw this and appealed to the weapon to spare Lakshmana. If you cannot, then kill me.

The spirit of the weapon said I am compelled to kill Lakshmana. I am slave of the one who keeps me.

The spear hit Lakshmana. Piercing Lakshmana , the sharp end of the spear came out of the other end of his body.

All was quiet. Lakshmana was gasping.

Rama was not sure what to do. The vanaras came and tried to pull out the spear. No one was able to. Finally Rama went and pulled the spear out. Ravana seeing this, started showering arrows.

While the vanaras took care of Lakshmana, Rama started fighting Ravana. So fierce were Rama's arrows, that Ravana fled from the battlefield. 

Rama's joy

In the fight Lakshmana had been wounded. Hanumana and Vibhishana both carried Lakshmana out.

On the side, Rama was worried. He had sent Lakshmana to fight Indrajit. He was thus thinking when Lakshmana arrived, blood flowing from his body. Vibhishana said Lakshmana had come victorious. Indrajit was no more.

All were very happy and celebrations started in Rama;s camp. Rama was happy. He could see the end of Ravana close by. 

Indrajit dies

Vibhishana said killing Indrajit would not be a simple task. Indrajit performed a sacrifice befofre starting for his battle. The day he completed the sacrifice, he would return victorious. Indrajit had been cursed by Brahma that whoever was able to stop his sacrifice before its completion, would be the one who would kill Indrajit. Send Lakshmana with me. Indrajit would be preparing for his sacrifice now. We will got and stop that.

Rama asked Vibhishana about Indrajit's curse.

Vibhishana said Indrajit had asked Brahma to make him immortal. When Brahma had refused, Indrajit asked that when he completed his sacrifice and went to war, he would return victorious. Brahma said he would give him that boon. Indrajit would also be able to fight, hiding behind clouds. If someone was able to stop the sacrifice before it was completed, Indrajit would die in the hands of that person.

Rama said he was worried for Lakshmana. Vibhishana said he aware of Lakshmana's strength. When Ravana had tried to lift Lakshmana, he had been unable to do so. Also Lakshmana had the strength of a hundred Indrajit.

With a few selected vanaras, Vibhishana and Lakshmana set forth for Lanka.

Crashing the gates, the group entered into the city. Fighting their way through, they entered the hall where Indrajit was performing his sacrifice. Hanumana, getting a tree, flung that at the sacrificial fire, extinguishing it. He then started urinating on all the offerings.

Angry, Indrajit started shooting arrows at Hanumana, which the vanara skillfully avoided.

Lakshmana then picked up his bow and started showering arrows at Indrajit. Indrajit avoiding the arrows, said to Vibhishana - Fie on you. You are a traitor. You disclosed the secret of my death.

Vibhishana said Though I was born a rakshasa, I did not envy others. I did not try to get what others had. I did not abduct anyone's wife.

Indrajit tried to climb on his chariot, but the vanaras broke that.

Vibhishana said to Lakshmana to stop him from going behind the clouds. If he went there, he would be invisible. He thus captured Indra and Brahma had to come and beg for Indra's freedom.

Indrajit created a chariot from his magic and climbed on that. Vibhishana asked Hanumana to stop Indrajit from going upwards.

Lakshmana started showering arrows. Trying to avoid that, Indrajit went skywards, where Hanumana stopped his path. Hanumana broke the chariot. Indrajit tried to escape in the skies, but Hanumana holding his legs started pulling him down. Hanumana also asked the other vanaras to come and help him.

Indrajit tried to run out , but Vibhishana was guarding the gate. Vibhishana called out to Lakshmana and a battle;e started between Lakshmana and Indrajit.

Hearing of this, Brahma asked Indra to find out a way in which Lakshmana could kill Indrajit. Lakshmana had to be given the weapon which would kill the demon and he needed to use that. Indra silently came and gave that to Lakshmana.

Lakshmana invoked the weapon. Seeing that, Indrajit was scared. Lakshmana released the arrow. Indrajit tried to avoid that but was unable to. The arrow came and cut Indrajit's head off.

Atikaya falls

Vibhishana said this dark tall warrior is Atikaya, a son of Ravana and Malini. He is a very learned person and also a very strong and brave warrior. He can use all weapons and is skilled in them . Praying to Brahma he got many wonderful weapons and a chariot. he has an armor which is impenetrable. If he starts fighting all vanaras will be soon dead. To avoid that, you will need to do something fast.

Atikaya saw Vibhishana and bowed down to him. He said - Uncle, you are living and serving the great Vishnu. I want him to bless me.

Saying this, Atikaya took his chariot where Rama was. He said to Rama - Do not show pity on me. When all this is over, let me reside on your lotus feet.

Rama said You are a learned person. I will let you live along with Vibhishana, after killing Ravana.

Atikaya said There is no need of that. I want to die in the battlefield, after fighting you. I do not want to fight animals, and Lakshmana is young so I want to fight you.

Lakshmana said he wanted to fight.

Atikaya said You are too young. Lakshmana strung his bow and Atikaya was amazed to see his skill.

Atikaya agreed to fight Lakshmana on the condition that Rama and Vibhishana would judge who was a greater warrior.

Arrows started showering, with Lakshmana cutting off the arrows of Atikaya.

Pawana as a breeze whispered into Lakshmana's ears that he should aim for the armor of the demon.

Lakshmana then invoked a powerful weapon. Atikaya seeing that weapon come towards tried to cut it off, but he was unable to. Soon the arrow went and cut off his head.

As soon as the head fell on the ground, it started taking the name of Rama.

Vibhishana seeing this, said you were a great warrior and a great devotee. 

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.

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.  

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. 

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.

Sita rebukes Lakshmana

Sita heard the voice of Rama calling for help. She asked Lakshmana to go and help Rama. He is calling out and seems to be in pain. Go fast and help your brother.
Lakshmana said Rama would soon be back. Do not fear for Rama.This is not Rama but someone lese. Do not fear for Rama, Mother, as there is no one who can hurt or harm Rama. Even if Rama is hurt, he will not shout for help. Also it is not safe to leave you alone in the hut.

Sita refused to listen. She started hitting her head. She said : A step brother is never one's own. It seems you have intentions towards me. Bharata took the throne, now you are here to take the wife. You may have made a truce with Bharata. Liten then, if ever I feel my mind is swaying towards someone other than Rama, I will kill myself at that instant.

With no ill will, Lakshmana said Let all be witness. I have no evil intentions.

Sita would not listen and said I will kill myself and you will be responsible for that.

Lakshmana then went outside the hut and drew a circle around the hut. He then said : Do not say anything harsh anymore. Also, do not step outside this circle.

Sita was in tears. Lakshmana then left in search of Rama.

Ravana seeing this as an opportunity, He took the guise of a beggar and went towards Sita's hut.

Surpanakha gets her nose and ears cut off

One day, Surpanakha, sister of Ravana happened to be in that part of the forest. One look at Rama, and she was instantly attracted towards him.
Ugly in nature and form, she changed her looks to resemble a beautiful woman, to entice Rama.
She approached Rama and asked him who he was. She said You look royal, but are dressed like a hermit. Why are you in this forest which is infested by demons. They are not far from here, so it is not a safe place to be in. I see a beautiful woman, with you. Who is she? I see another man here, who looks like you? Who is he?
Rama nicely said he was Rama,  son of Dashratha, king of Ayodhya and the woman was his wife, Sita. The other man was Lakshmana, his brother. I am hear to fulfill a promise. Who are you? You are as beautiful as the apsaras. Are you an apsara?
Surpanakha said she was sister of Ravana, king of Lanka. She was alone having lost her husband, and roamed around the world. Seeing Rama, she had given her heart to him, and wanted him to be hers. She said her brother, Ravana, ruled in Lanka. She had a brother, Kumbhakarna, who slept for six months. There was a brother, Vibhishana, who was a religious person. They all stayed in Lanka. There were two other brothers, Khara and Dushana, who were with her in the forest. Being the youngest, I have been spoiled. I desire you, please become mine. We will roam around together, and I will take you to places which no human has visited before. Sita will not be able to do this for you. If your wife and brother try to stop us, I will eat them up. Look at me, I am much more beautiful than Sita. Leave her aside, and come with me.
Seeing Sita feeling insecure, Rama asked her not to worry and he said he will have fun at the expense of this woman. He said to Surpanakha, I am already married and if I take you, you will have to share me with Sita. You see my brother, Lakshmana. He is alone. Go to him. Lakshmana is like me in looks, and he is also fair.
Surpanakha went to Lakshmana and said she wanted him. Lakshmana said he was nothing but a servant of Rama. Why have fun with a servant. Go back to the master.
Not realizing that Rama and Lakshmana were having fun, Surpanakha went back to Rama.
She said she had come back to him. It seems Sita was cause for rejection. She would kill and eat Sita and Rama would be free.
Changing to her original shape, Surpanakha rushed to eat Sita. Sita started running and Surpanakha chased her.
Rama said to Lakshmana, the joke had gone too far.
Lakshmana released an arrow and Surpanakha lost her ears and nose.
The ugly rakshashi was looking uglier with a nose cut and blood all over her.
She rushed to where Khara and Dushana were.

Rama, Sita and Lakshmana leave for the forests

With the gifts given away, people who were poor became rich. This was the greatness of Rama.
Rama came out with Sita and Lakshmana. With Sita in the middle, the three were ready to leave.
The people of Ayodhya were sad to see their beloved prince leaving. The people said, Sita who was so delicate that sun rays hurt her, would now have to stay in the forest. The princes who lived in luxury and wealth would now be living like paupers.
They said the old King had lost his mind. With Rama away, how would he live?
They decided that they would also live with Rama for fourteen years in the forest. Let Kaikeyi and Bharata rule.
Dashratha heard Rama was leaving. He said to Kaikeyi, you are responsible for this. I will surely die after this. I have no problem with that. What I fear is, people will say there was a king who got swayed by his wife. I, who defeated ferocious demons got defeated by a cunning woman. Bharata will come and make amends.
Rama and Lakshmana were sad to see their father in a pitiable condition. They went to him, to take his leave.
Rama asked for permission to leave. The king said this was their meeting. He wanted to go along with Rama, but Rama stopped him.
The king asked Rama to take all the wealth he could from the treasury. When Kaikeyi heard this, she said Bharata would be king and this was his wealth. What would he have, if all was given to Rama?
Rama said one who was leaving for the forests had no need for wealth. The bark of the trees was enough to cover them, and the sticks were there with them for support. They were taking their bows for protection.
Dashratha said why were Lakshamana and Sita going along? Then he said, Sita could only one one condition, she would go, decked in all her finery.

Rama, Lakshmana and Sita climbed on a chariot. People of Ayodhya started following on foot. Rama said to Sumantra, who was the charioteer,  Please move faster, I will not be able to see father's pitiable condition.

Seeing Rama leave, Dashratha fainted. People rushed and took him to his quarters and lay him on his bed. When Kaikeyi came close to the king, the king told her not to come close to him. The king asked to be taken to Kaushalya's room. Both shared each other's 

Rama decides to leave

On hearing this Rama smiled. He said he would not delay and would leave for the forests that very day. He said would hand over Sita to his mother and then leave.
On the floor, the king was sobbing.
Rama touched his father's feet and left. He went out of the room where Lakshmana was waiting and both went to Kaushalya's room.
Kaushalya was worshiping her Gods. Sumitra was also present there.
Rama came and touched Kaushalya's feet and the queen blessed her son. She said he would make a great king.
Rama said it was not a time for joy, but a sad moment. He told Kaushalya what Kaikeyi had said.
On hearing this Kaushalya fainted.
Rama was afraid. Had he killed his mother by giving her this news.
Carefully Rama and Lakshmana lifted her and laid her on her bed. After some time she gained consciousness.
She started cursing Kaikeyi for sending Rama to the forests. She said none of the kings of the dynasty had been swayed away by the words of their queens.
Lakshmana said he would fight Bharata for Rama, and get the kingdom back. He would not agree to this condition.
Kaushalya said Give the kingdom to Bharata but do not go to the forests. Stay back here with me.

Rama said the words of the father had great value. Even Parashurama had cut off his mother's head at the word of his father. Dashratha was deeply hurt with this decision.
Kaushalya said if Rama went to the forests, she would kill herself.

Rama said this was destiny and not any one's fault. He said one should learn to forgive.
Lakshmana was fuming with anger and he said he would not listen to this reason. He said if Rama went to the forests the king would die and so would his mother and the sin of their deaths would come on his shoulder.

Rama said Bharata was not at fault and he had not done anything wrong.

Thus Rama explained to Kaushalya and Lakshmana why he needed to go.
Kaushalya had a mantra which she gave Rama. Using that, harm would not come to him, and he would be back safely from the forests.

Taking leave of his mother, Rama went to see Sita, along with Lakshmana. He told her what had happened and that he would leaving for the forests that very day.

Sita said for her, her husband was her God and she would not be able to live without Rama in the palace. She said the pains and hardships of the forests would be nothing if she was with Rama. On the contrary, the palace would be worse for her, if she stayed back.

Rama agreed to take her with him. Lakshmana said he would also be going with Rama to the forest.
Knowing that Lakshmana would not listen, he asked him to choose his bows and arrows and dress like a hermit.

Sita and Rama also changed their dresses and became ready to leave for the forests. They started distributing their jewels among the poor and gave away many gifts.

There was a very poor old brahman there called Trijata. He and his wife went to Rama for some gifts. The treasury was empty and all had been given away. Seeing this, Rama gave the brahman cows, which he and wife happily took away with them.
Being old in age, they were not able to control the cows. Seeing this Rama said the cows would remain in the royal cow shed and Trijata could come take care of them there.