Part 5 - Sundara Kanda (English translation)

HANUMAN LEAPS ACROSS THE SEA Hanuman, desirous of locating Sita, who was abducted by Ravana, into the high skies, decided to travel southwards. He assumed a gigantic form that made the mighty ocean roaring with waves, look like the hoof of a cow. Hanuman kept growing in size just as the river flows in full spate during the winter season'. The Mahendra Hill which once extended into heaven, unable to bear the weight of Hanuman, sank low as if reaching the subterranean, but unable to do so, it got crushed under the weight of the mighty Hanuman, who desired to leap across the ocean². The lions from within the caves of Mahendra mountain let out feeble roars. The poisonous snakes in the mountain started stinging sharply, shattering it into various fragments. Hanuman seeking the blessings of the Devas in the eastern direction, leapt high into the sky, the with the intention of helping Rama and vanaras³. The Lord of ocean offered his hospitality to Hanuman, summoning the Mainaka mountain which had remained under the ocean for a long time. When Hanuman flew into the sky, the Sun did not scorch him. The wind blew gently and soothingly. The gods and Gandharvas in the celestial regions praised Hanumanª. Hanuman praised by divine gods, rushed swiftly, as if he 198

would swallow the entire ocean in the course of his swift offlight. Finding the Mainaka hill an obstacle in his path, he made it tumble down, accepted its offer of worship and delivered it from its fear for Indra, by speaking words of comfort and courage. He then crossed the oceans. The Devas, wishing to test Hanuman's skill, sent a demoness Surasa who confronted Hanuman with her mouth wide open, claiming him her food. Hanuman quickly assumed a tiny form, crept into and darted out of her mouth instantly. He was praised for his cleverness. Then like a cloud, he sailed further into the sky. As he was flying in the sky, Hanuman felt that his speed was suddenly being arrested by some unknown force. He looked around and saw "Simhika" the mother of Rahu lying on the waters of the sea. She had the power to grab any object, if the shadow of the object fell upon her. Hanuman having heard of her from Sugriva, entered her mouth assuming a tiny form. When he reached her abdomen he began to swell in size and tore Simhita to pieces with his nails. He then reached the southern banks of the ocean?. LANKA'S BEAUTY Hanuman reached Lanka. He noticed atop the Trikuta mountain, the huge walls and the beautiful gardens abounding with trees³. Hanuman saw that Lanka was very heavily guarded by thousands of demons and therefore invincible even to the gods. While entering the 199

gate, he was spotted by Lankini, the presiding deity of the city. She prevented Hanuman from entering the city. She gave him a blow with her palm. Hanuman retaliated the blow with his fist. But Lankini could of not withstand the blow. She was reminded Brahma's words, predicting ren sorrow to her city. She permitted Hanuman to enter the city and carry out his wishes 10. RAVANA'S PALACE Fearlessly, at night Hanuman entered the abode of Ravana, and saw the gem-studded palaces guarded by various demons and reciting Vedic mantras. Hanuman then reached the fragrant harem of Ravana's queens". Hanuman assumed the form of a cat. While the moon bedecked the sky, he entered the palace and saw hundreds of ladies in deep sleep. He wanted to find out whether Sita was among them. He was immersed in sorrow as he did not see Sita anywhere¹³. THE PUSPAKA VIMANA In the palace of Ravana, Hanuman saw the Puspaka Vimana which was filled with splendid gems and gold. It was a remarkable car, full of valuable gems and pictures and was crowded with distinguished women of great charm¹4. This vimana had been created by Visvakarma's. This Pushpaka Vimana was first built for Brahma and 200

from Brahma it passed on to Kubera. Ravana vanquished Kubera and the took away Puspaka Vimana"?. RAVANA'S SLEEP Hanuman saw Ravana lying there in deep sleep, and all around him, maidens were lying on their beds. Many of them had different kinds of musical instruments in their hands. Hanuman saw a most lovely lady who surpassed all other women in beauty and grace. Hanuman thought that this must be Sita and he became exultant 18. Hanuman began to reason out and understood that the lovely lady Sita, having lost Rama, would not adorn herself. This must be some other woman. VAIN SEARCH Hanuman searched all over Lanka but could not find Sita. He Visiting places renewed his search in Lanka like art galleries, sleeping rooms, flower galleries, the recreation rooms, but no:__ where did he find her. Remembering how the strenuous efforts of his flight across the sea had been futile, and he was plunged in despondency 20. She might have been that to dropped in the ocean or it was most likely the demonesses would have L 'K devoured her. Some kind of calamity must have occurred to Sita, for, 201

inspite of his thorough search he could not find out Sita²¹. So Hanuman to did not think it proper to go back Kiskinda as it would lead to the death l of all great heroes. All the people at Ayodhya and all the monkeys in Kiskinda would be so desperate that they would not care to continue living. So Hanuman thought that it would be better for him to put an end to his life by burning himself or by jumping into the ocean 22. HANUMAN RESOLVES TO SEARCH THE ASOKA GARDEN Till I discover Sita, I shall search for her in this city of Lanka again and again. Thus praying to all gods he started his search once again. He wanted their blessings so that he could discover Sita 23. Then he saw Asokavana, the place he had not ventured into, until then. He saw a Simsupa tree that was golden in colour. There were hundreds of small bells that were twinkling in the wind. As he entered the Asokavana, he spotted Sita²5. SEEING SITA IN ASOKAGARDEN Hanuman saw Sita sitting lonely and weeping bitterly. She was surrounded by cruel demonesses. Sita was wearing a silken cloth that was covered with dirt and dust. She was thin and depressed. Her beauty was like the tiny streaks of moon at its initial waxing phase 26. He saw many ornaments hanging from the tree and concluded that the woman 202

whom he saw before him was Sita. PRAISING. SITA'S VIRTUES As he looked at Sita, he thought that she was the most fitting spouse of Rama. Hanuman thought that fate was too powerful for anybody. Rama who slew Vali and made Sugriva & king, was capable of dispelling the sorrow of everybody who took refuge in him, had to undergo such sufferings and Sita, who was the noblest lady, the most faithful wife, had also to face such misery. This was nothing but the work of the almighty fate 29. "Only by the power of Rama, I could reach Lanka which was governed by demon armies, without any fear". Hanuman thought that there was no woman equal to Sita in chastity and faith. Sita was sitting under a Simsupa tree. She was surrounded by many demonesses whose shape and form were most detestable. Hanuman shed tears of joy. He then made salutations to Rama³¹. As Hanuman was sitting on the tree he heard Vedic chanting. Ravana had woken up and was coming towards Asokavana. Hanuman hid himself behind the leaves and closely observed Ravana's actions³2. RAVANA SPEAKS ENTICINGLY Even as Ravana was advancing towards her, Sita tried to cover her whole body with her hands. She turned her back to Ravana praying 203

for the destruction of Ravana and other demons 33. Ravana began to speak. He said, "Why do you want to cover your limbs from me? You need not be afraid of me. I want you to be dressed in the finest silk. And further Rama will never be able to take you back from me. So it would be better on your part to decorate yourself decently and enjoy the luxuries of my royal palace. Forget Rama once for all". Ravana added, "Your husband has no kingdom, no wealth. He has been banished from e the kingdom. You need not be doting on him. Further I tell you that I am L observing my dharma. To Raksasas carrying away another manas wife is not a sin. It is a demonas dharma". Sita did not remain silent. She placed a straw between him and herself and started speaking³5. SITA REBUFFS HIM Sita spoke, "Is there not a single good soul in Lanka who could point out dharma-righteous conduct?". Sita says, "I am not a woman to be carried away by costly ornaments or luxurious palaces. To me Rama alone is the most valuable treasure. If you want to live some more time, it would be best for you to fall at the feet of Rama and take me back to him. You can save yourself and also this huge city"³. "Rama is sure to come here and destroy you and your allies. He will be able to rescue me just as Narayana rescued the world from the demons by becoming 204

37 Vamana. You can never escape from him just as a tree cannot survive after being hit by thunder. You will not remain alive after incurring the displeasure of Rama. Where is your power? Where is the might of Rama who destroyed the Raksasas in Janasthana? The love that you rose in me restrains my anger. That is why I do not punish you³7. Ravana heard the derisive reply of Sita and he turned rude. He said, "Look here, Oh Sita, I will wait for just two months. And if by that time you do not comply with my request, you will be killed and cooked for my breakfast" 38. The chaste woman Sita said, "It is evident that there is no person interested in your welfare in this Lanka. It is clear. You are casting me sinful glances. How is it that your eyes have not been pulled out? It is certain that your end is nearing. Only otherwise you would not have been attempted to carry me away from Rama³9. Ravana heard the 39 words of Sita and said to her angrily, "It is better that I kill you now itself". He gave orders to Raksasas to make efforts to see that Sita submitted to his wish. Then consoled and embraced by his wife he entered his harem obsessed by his passion 40. THE RAKSASIS FRIGHTEN SITA ea The demoness who were keeping guard over Sita, spoke harshly A to Sita and began to praise Ravana. They said, "You do not appreciate 205

what an honour it is to be the wife of the mighty Ravana, the first of the descendants of Pulastya who was directly descended from Brahma". They spoke about the boundless valour of Ravana,who had even conquered the mighty Indra. Erase Rama from your mind. Give yourself to Ravana, who commands the wealth of the three worlds. If you do not obey our words, we will be constrained to kill you and eat " you up. Sita heard such cruel words. She was profusely shedding tears 42. SITA GRIEVES THAT EVEN SUICIDE IS IMPOSSIBLE Thus threatened on all sides by the frightful Raksasis, Sita lost courage and wept. She was thinking of putting an end to her life. The only way was to hang herself from the low branch of the Asoka tree, which had bunches of flowers. She was thinking sadly of her husband 14 and other relatives - Fie on this human helplessness. It is impossible to die even if one wants to". Thus she lamented her fate 43. SITA CONTEMPLATES SUICIDE Sita said there was no warrior in the world equal to Rama. "Rama has fought with Khara, Dusana and others and had killed all of them. Why is it that Rama has not killed Ravana? Why does not Rama rescue me? He does not know that I am here. The king of the eagles 206

was killed by Ravana"45. Now that I am not able to see him, it would be life myself. better if I take my self''46 A TRJATA'S DREAM It was then that Trjata had a wonderful dream and she called aside all the demonesses and told them about her dream. She had seen many auspicious things happening to Rama, Laksmana and others and saw Ravana fallen on the ground. She also saw in her dreams that Vibhisana was the only one to be saved. Trjata told the demonesses that they should all fall at the feet of Sita and beg her forgiveness. That was the only way they could save themselves 47. SITA SEEKS TO HANG HERSELF Sita heard them and told them that she would certainly save them from danger. But still she could not think of continuing to live. She wept aloud 48. Sita said, "It is very likely that Ravana would kill me very soon. How foolish I was to develop a desire for a deer! It is all because of my foolishness! This great calamity has been brought upon me by my U self. Thus cursing herself she decided to commit suicide by tying her tresses of hair to the branch of the Simsupa tree. 207

AUSPICIOUS OMENS that But it was at this time many auspicious omens occurred. Her left ^ eye began to throb, so did her left thigh and the left side of her body. These auspicious signs indicated that all her sorrows were coming to an end. Hanuman heard Trjata's account of her dream and thought that he was most blessed having discovered Sita. Hanuman then thought that he should wait for sometime. He should talk to Sita and make her feel hopeful of recovery". HANUMAN'S DILEMMA Hanuman thought, "If I go back to Rama without telling Sita about my arrival, it is most likely that Sita may end her life. But what language am I to adopt? Suppose I use a refined language of the Brahmins, Sita would conclude that I was Ravana in disguise and she would not believe me" 52. "If my presence is known to the demons, there would be a sudden attack upon me by the demons. Thus pondering Hanuman concluded, "May Sita attain happiness by uniting with her husband''53. HANUMAN PRAISING RAMA Then Hanuman narrated the sequence of events from the birth of Rama up to the time of Sita's abduction by Ravana. By the command of 208

his old father, in his devotion to truth, Rama went into exile in the forest. He narrated how Rama had reached Kiskinda and made Sugriva the king of monkeys, and how the monkeys had been in all directions to search for Sita. He also said that he had at last succeeded in finding out Sita in Lanka³4. Sita heard the words of Hanuman. She looked up at the tree, saw him, but could not believe that somebody had come for her. She thought that it was all a dream. But again she thought over this for sometime and then decided that it was a real happening and not an imaginary. Hanuman then asked her question after question. "Who are you? Why are you in such a sad condition? From whom have you been separated? It is certain that you are Sita, the wife of Rama. I see that you should be the great wife of Rama because of your power of penance ³. Then Sita replied, "I am Sita, the daughter-in-law of the great king Dasaratha and daughter of King Janaka. We were living years happily for twelve yrs after my marriage. But all of a sudden, Kaikeyi demanded the banishment of my husband Rama. King Dasaratha had no other choice but to grant Kaikeyi the boons he had endowed upon her long ago. When Rama and myself came to the forest with Laksmana, and started living at Pancavati, Ravana abducted me. I will relinquish my life after two months. are over 57. 209

DOUBTING HANUMAN'S WORDS Hanuman told Sita that he was sent by Rama and began to describe all the happenings. Even as he went on telling her, he slowly came nearer and nearer. That was enough to rouse suspicion in the mind of Sita and immediately she cursed him. HANUMAN'S REPLY Sita enquired about the manner in which Sugriva had become the friend of R‍ama. "O, Vaidehi, by the command of the gods, Keasari went to the mountain Gokarna from there and killed the Asura Sambasadana. I was born to the wife of Kesari by the grace of the wind god and I am known as Hanuman. I have won world wide fame by my exploits. I am the chief minister of Sugriva. Know me as the messenger of Rama GIVES RAMA'S SIGNET RING Having told Sita all the details about Rama's efforts to rescue Sita, Hanuman handed over the ring which bore the name of Rama. Sita received the ring and was overjoyed at the turn of fortune. She as affectionately praised Hanuman a valiant and wise 61. Hanuman gave Sita all the details about Rama's sincere efforts and also about Sugriva's exertion. He said, "Rama does not know you are here". The moment 210

he heard of Sita's whereabouts from Hanuman, Rama would very soon be coming to Lanka and would be putting an end to all the demons. Sita again told Hanuman that Rama should not be slow, as the wicked demon Ravana had made a determined bid to kill her at the end of two months. Therefore Rama should act very fast 63. Suddenly a thought occurred in his mind and he said, "Oh! Devi, I shall carry you now itself on my back to Kiskinda, so that you will not keep suffering here until when that great hero is on his way to rescue you". Sita considered that such a sneaky escape from Lanka would blemish the high level of heroism that Rama maintained. Hanuman assumed Visvarupa and in order to dispel the doubts of Sita. But Sita simply said, "Oh Hanuman, My purpose and Rama's purpose should in no way be defeated". It would not be becoming of her to go with Hanuman. "Oh Hanuman ! Bring as quikly as possible my lord Rama and make me happy"64. "Your reply is in every way worthy of you, the wife of that great soul. You give me, some token which Rama will recognize"65. m THE EPISODE OF THE CROW At his request Sita narrated the episode of Kakasura at "' C Chitrakutam. "When I lived in chitrakuta, I came and sat on your lap. O Lord! At that time, a crow came and pecked at me. The crow, son of Devendra, pecked at my breast with his beak. When you woke up from 211

you sleep, drew a darba grass with the power of the missile presided over L by Brahma and blinded the crow in the eye. You remind him of this " incident 66. GIVING CHOODAMANI "O Lord, al shall remain alive just for a month more. I shall not live for a minute longer. Save me from enemies. Annihilate the ru 4 "1 enemies. Thus you tell my Lord again and again. Then Sita gave him her choodamani-the crest jewel as a mark of identification. Anjaneya M received it happily"67. "mighty ape! Convey my greetings to Rama and Laksmana, to Sugriva and to all the elderly monkeys. You should ask Rama to rescue me from this sea of sorrowsa. Sita asked Hanuman how the thousands of monkeys could cross the ocean and come to Lanka 68. Hanuman had ready answers for Sita's questions. He said, "There is no need for you to worry about the way the monkeys could cross the ocean. The powerful Sugriva is determined to bring you back". Hanuman said that he was the weakest and the youngest among the millions of monkeys that were at the beck and call of Sugriva. When he himself could reach Lanka through a leap there was no doubt about great monkeys leaping over the ocean. Rama and Laksmana will definitely bring destruction to Raksasa. Sita derived some comfort on hearing Hanuman's encouraging words. She told him about a secret 212

incident where Rama had adorned Sita's cheeks with the powder of mountains. Thus giving various evidences, Sita bid farewell to Hanuman after having blessed him 70. SPOILING ASOKAVANA tasks Hanuman had finished almost all the important parts of his assignment. But Hanuman wanted to know a little more about the strength and attitude of Ravana. He destroyed the Asokavana filled with variety of trees and creepers, it is pleasing to the mind and the eyes"¹. SLAIN KINKARAS i Ravana who came to know the destruction of Nandavana by a monkey, through Raksasis, immediately called 80,000 Kinkaras to attack Hanuman and capture him. They offered to fight severely with Hanuman. But Hanuman took off a huge iron bolt and by using it he smashed all the demons. He flew in the sky and roared aloud, AI have come here as a messenger of Rama. I am strong enough to kill Ravana and others. Victory to Rama"72. All the 80,000 soldiers were beaten to death. In the meanwhile Hanuman destroyed some more buildings in the Asokavanam and also killed the guards there¹³. 73 213

SLAIN JAMBUMALI Then Jambumali, the son of Prahasta came to fight with Hanuman. Hanuman fought with him for a short while and striking him with the same pariga, killed him and the demons who accompanied Jambumali 74. SLAIN MINISTER'S SONS Then Ravana sent seven soldiers who were the sons of his ministers. They attacked Hanuman, fought with him, but he killed all of them. He was wreaking havoc on the demons when he tore many of them with his sharp claws and crushed the horses of their chariots. The battlefield was covered with the blood of the demons 75. SLAIN FIVE ARMY CHIEFS Again Ravana called his five captains and asked them to go forth. spoke But this time he talked to the Senapathis about the strength of the monkey which was not like Vali. Ravana had clear ideas about the capabilities of the great monkeys like Vali. But he thought, "This monkey may be the creation of Devas who were defeated by me. He should be punished". So he cautioned the Senapathis and asked them i to be very vigilant and deligent. Hanuman leaping high into the air in a trice, plummeted down on Durdhara'ss chariot striking it violently. 214

Durdhara fell down dead from the chariot, and his horses were battered. By uprooting a sal tree, Hanuman struck slew the two Raksasa warriors. Then he plucked a mountain in his rage and hurled it at the foe a Bhaskarna". GREAT FIGHT WITH AKSAKUMARA Then Ravana sent his son Aksakumara who was a very great warrior to fight with Hanuman. He fell on the great chariot and crushed it to pieces. He flew in the sky. Hanuman also flew very quickly into the sky and caught hold of both the feet of Akshakumara. He began to swing Akshakumara round and round in the sky and after some time he dashed him on to the ground. Aksakumara was torn to pieces. Thus Hanuman killed Aksakumara. This was a great feat 78. INDRAJIT SENT AGAINST HANUMAN Ravana had nobody else except Indrajit. Indrajit immediately, came to the warfront carrying his huge bow. He discharged some arrows at Hanuman. But all those arrows were of no use. Indrajit m discharged Brahmastra at Hanujan. They brought strings and chords and tied Hanuman with all the ropes. Hanuaman became free of the terrific power of Brahmastram. The demons dragged Hanuman to the presence of Ravana 80. Ravana saw Hanuman being brought to his presence. He 215

was furious. He asked his minister Prahasta to talk to Hanuman and find fixed out the purpose for which Hanuman had come to Lanka. Hanuman gave a reply in which he glorified Sugriva ans Rama. Hanuman said that he had come there as a messenger of Rama. JA HANUMAN IMPRESSED BY RAVANA'S PERSONALITY Hanuman was surprised at the majestic presentation and surroundings of Ravana. He thought, "If his unrighteousness had not overwhelmed him, he might have been the protector of the world of gods"82. HANUMAN IS QUESTIONED L Ravana on seeing Hanuman had some strange thought. He thought that this monkey might be the lord Nandikesvara or he might be Banasura. Hanuman said, "O king, I wanted to meet you. And it was for this purpose that I had to fight with some demons"83. "It is by Sugriva's orders that I have come to your place. You are so wise. You should not keep by force another man's wife. There is no one in the three worlds, O king, who can offend Rama and be happy. Therefore give back Sita to Rama 84. Hanuman continued, "You only consider Sita a lovely lady. But actually she is like a serpent with five heads. You must think now of saving yourself. You have enjoyed all the fruits of your meritorious "1 216

deeds. You shall quickly reap the results of this unrighteous act of yours. Having obtained the boon from Lord Brahma you have ridiculed 11 mortals and animals 85. Having heard those unpleasant words of Hanuman Ravana became furious. He ordered death sentence for the , daring insults that Hanuman had heaped upon him. Vibhisana who was there in the Assembly did not approve Ravana's order to put to death one who had been sent as an envoy. He voiced his protest. He wanted Ravana to cancel capital punishment but at the same time Vibhisana said that some everlasting punishment could be given to Hanuman like disfiguring his limbs etc.,8. Ravana considered Vibhisana's political wisdom and altered his command. He ordered that Hanuman's tail be burnt. Immediately all the demons bound Hanuman's tail with a lot of cloth, poured plenty of oil over it and set fire to it. Ravana ordered that the monkey with the burning tail should be taken round the city, so that all the demons would see the sort of punishment given to the monkey. This news of setting fire to the tail of the monkey was conveyed to Sita. She grew very much worried. She became very sad and immediately prayed to all fire gods³. Hanuman now grew comforted and bold. He now felt that this fire could be utilized for burning all the buildings of Lanka itself. He turned it to a good purpose. He reduced his body and all the ropes that bound him became loose. Now he was free. He took 217

up a great Parigha and began to wield it to kill all the demons that came there. Hanuman began to burn each and every house of the great demons but he avoided causing any damage to the house of Vibhisana. The whole city of Lanka was burning. All the gold and silver and valuable gems melted and kept flowing like a river 89. The demons were now weeping aloud as their houses and relatives were all burning by the fire from Hanuman's tail. Some of the demons said, "This monkey has come as result of all the curses of Brahma and other gods. The ladies and children were crying aloud even as they were falling down from the terraces of the great buildings⁹. FEARING OF SITA'S SAFETY The gods praised Hanuman's heroic act. Having set the entire Lanka ablaze, Hanuman, of immense strength dipped his tail in the sea and extinguished the fire that engulfed his tail. But with in a short time, a sudden fear crept into his mind. He thought that if the fire had burnt Asokavana, it would have certainly caused havoc to Sita too. The fire did not burn me because of Rama's greatness and the fruits of Sita's I 11 good deeds. Fire cannot burn Sita. Through the words of charanas who are in the sky, and some good auspicious omens, Hanuman understood Sita's safety and wished to see her again 92. 218

TAKES LEAVE OF SITA he said Having spotted Sita at the bottom of Simsupa tree and told, "Fortunately I see you". Hanuman climbed the mountain Arista so that he could jump over the ocean. When he pressed his feet against the mountain, the mountain sank into the earth. HANUMAN'S RETURN Hanuman flew over the ocean. On the way he saw Mainaka. He touched him. Hanuman flew in the sky with great speed. His hands and tail made a loud noise. This was heard by all the monkeys who were the waiting at Mahendra mountain. Hanuman saw them and descended on to the top of Mahendra mountain 94. All the monkeys like Angada had gathered there. They brought Hanuman flowers and fruits as gifts. Angada was very happy. Jambavan praised Hanuman for his unique achievement. Hanuman saluted Jambavan. They were all eager to listen to Hanuman as he would give them an account of his great expedition. Hanuman shone amidst monkeys as Indra among gods⁹. HANUMAN DESCRIBES HIS ADVENTURE When Jambhavan questioned Hanuman of his adventure Hanuman gave a detailed account of his expedition and explained how he found Janaki in Lanka. He also narrated all the important incidents 1 219

that had occurred as he went in search of Sita. After he had given a full account of all that had happened in Lanka, Hanuman told Jambavan and others, "I have accomplished a little. It is likely that many more things are to be done. I wish that all of you tell me, what should be done". Both Rama's and Sugriva's enterprises have already borne fruit. Sita was virtuous". Hanuman told that Ravana certainly had the protection of his penance, for even after carrying away Sita, he was not burnt to ashes. So Ravana was a formidable enemy in the first place. I myself can destroy the enemy. How much more easy it should be to do that for heroes like you? There won't be any difficulty in achieving the task of bringing back Sita to Rama"97. JAMBAVAN'S OBJECTION ་ The chaste Sita has not punished the sinful Ravana, for, her intention was to punish him, through her devoted husband. Thus Hanuman told Angada, when Angada and Hanuman decided to meet Rama, after bringing back Sita from Lanka, Jambavan objected to their suggestion and said, "We should go to Kiskinda and give this information. We must know what Rama and Sugriva have in their th mind 98. 220

THE APES RAVAGE THE HONEY GROVE All the monkeys listened to Jambavanas valuable suggestion and immediately started on their journey to Kishkinda from Mahendra mountain. Even as they were flying in the sky, they happened to see Madhuvana. Then the monkeys entered Madhuvanam and began to drink honey and eat the fruits to their heart's content. That Madhuvanam was guarded by Dadhimukha. Dadhimukha objected to the sudden instrusion of the monkeys and tried to drive them out. The monkeys reported Dadhimukha's objection to Angada. And Angada b slaped Dadhimukha on his face. The monkeys beat Dadhimukha's servants also⁹. Dadhimukha saw that the monkeys had the full support of Angada. He thought that the best way would be to report the matter to Sugriva and bring about the necessary punishment on all the monkeys for destroying Madhuvana. So he flew straight to Prasravana mountain where Sugriva, Rama and others were staying and saluted them 100 r SUGRIVA'S ORDER TO DADHIMUKHA Sugriva heard the words of Dadhimukha and he immediately concluded that Sita had been found. The mission of Hanuman had culminated into a grand achievment. So he was not at all sorry about the destruction of Madhuvana, instead he was only happy. He ordered 221 a sufficient proof of his meeting with Sita 103. HANUMAN RELATES SITA'S NARRATION Dama -L as if

THE APES RAVAGE THE HONEY GROVE All the monkeys listened to Jambavanas valuable suggestion and immediately started on their journey to Kishkinda from Mahendra mountain. Even as they were flying in the sky, they happened to see Madhuvana. Then the monkeys entered Madhuvanam and began to drink honey and eat the fruits to their heart's content. That Madhuvanam was guarded by Dadhimukha. Dadhimukha objected to the sudden instrusion of the monkeys and tried to drive them out. The monkeys reported Dadhimukha's objection to Angada. And Angada b slaped Dadhimukha on his face. The monkeys beat Dadhimukha's servants also⁹. Dadhimukha saw that the monkeys had the full support of Angada. He thought that the best way would be to report the matter to Sugtiva and bring about the necessary punishment on all the monkeys for destroying Madhuvana. So he flew straight to Prasravana mountain where Sugriva, Rama and others were staying and saluted them 100. r SUGRIVA'S ORDER TO DADHIMUKHA Sugriva heard the words of Dadhimukha and he immediately concluded that Sita had been found. The mission of Hanuman had culminated into a grand achievment. So he was not at all sorry about the destruction of Madhuvana, instead he was only happy. He ordered 221

Dadhimukha, "Go back to your place and tell them that I am pleased al with what they have done. I am not at all hurt. Kindly send them immediately as we are all eager to know about the success of their mission"'10¹. Dadhimukha returned to Angada and told him that Sugriva all was not at feeling offended at the damage caused to Madhuvana. A Sugriva wanted Hanuman and Angada to return to Kiskinda at the earliest. Just as the clouds hit by the wind, the roaring monkeys started from Madhuvana and saluted Rama and Laksmana 102. Hanuman told how he crossed the ocean, saw Sita in Lanka and Rakshasi's intimidation. Sita was firm in her love and devotion to Rama. He also said that Sita did not care for Ravana or his threats. Then Hanuman gave the choodamani which Sita had given to him as a token of his having seen her. Sita had told Hanuman that the choodamani would be a sufficient proof of his meeting with Sita¹ 103 HANUMAN RELATES SITA'S NARRATION asif Rama took the choodamani and felt Sita herself had been l restored to him. He praised Hanuman and his wisdom. Rama beagan to weep. He said, "Take me to the place where my dear Sita is staying. I 11 cannot live even for a moment without her 104. Hanuman gave the incident of Kakasura as another piece of evidence. Then Hanuman said I told Sita that the moment I meet Rama and tell him about your 222

position, he would immediately take steps to recover you. He would "7 put an end to all these wicked demons 105. SITA'S LAST WORDS Hanuman said that Sita had given her valuable suggestion that Rama should come to Lanka, fight with Ravana, kill all the wicked demons and only then should take her back. Sita also asked me how Rama could cross the ocean and come to Lanka, said Hanuman¹06 I • Hanuman added, "Oh Rama, when Sita was feeling depressed I answered her pleasingly_"Sugriva the lord of all the ape armies is steadfast in his devotion to you. His soldiers have "Trees" as their weapons. No ape in Sugriva army is inferior to me. I am the weakest among the millions of monkeys that are at the command of Sugriva. I will carry Rama and Laksmana on my shoulders and they will be here in Lanka within a very short time 107. Hanuman said to Sita, "Oh great lady, Rama, Laksmana and Sugriva will all be here very soon. You will be able to hear the great roar of the monkeys. This Lanka and Ravana will be destroyed very soon. You will be able to go to Ayodhya with " 44 Rama. And the greatest coronation will be celebrated. Thus I told Sita and she felt encouraged. She felt elated and that is how I consoled h Sita 108. The poet gives the palas, tuti, "On listening to this Sundara Kanda which elaborates the glories of Hanuman great learning would 223 1

be acquired. A lot of wealth would accrue. One could acquire eloquent 11 speech and many more gains 109. Thus ends Sundara Kanda written by Sundaresa, the son of Subrahmanya and Janaki¹¹º. 224