Sundara Kandam

Chapter: 56
Hanuman’s Return from Lanka

[Hanuman took leave of Janaki and climbed to the top of Lamba Mountain, preparing himself to cross the ocean. He assumed his very big form and rose from the mountain to the north.]

Hanuman saluted Janaki who was sitting below the Simshuba tree unperturbed and told her, "I am happy to see that you are safe. And I am able to see you again by the grace of God." 1

Then Sita seeing him, who has come again near her, told again some words which exhibited her love towards her husband. 2

"Hey destroyer of enemies, you are the only suitable one, to get good results for this job as per your desire. Your strength is bound to be praised." 3

"For that Kakustha prince Rama, who can destroy all enemies, the only thing proper is for him to turn the city of Lanka upside down by his arrows and take me with him." 4

"So you have to tell such words to him so that that great warrior wins his enemies in war and also such that the words are suited to a great soul like him." 5

Hanuman after hearing her words, which were meaningful, which were logical and which were full of love, replied her in one sentence. 6

"That Kakustha, who is going to win over his enemies and who is going to wipe away your sorrow is soon going to come here surrounded by armies of monkeys and bears." 7

After consoling Vaidehi thus, Hanuman prepared for the return and bid farewell to Vaidehi. 8

Afterwards, that monkey chief, who is the killer of his enemies, with great enthusiasm to see his lord climbed the great Arishta Mountain. 9

Hanuman, the son of Wind God, climbed with happiness on that mountain, which had dense forests having tall Padmaka trees, which had clouds engulfed in between its peaks, which appeared as if has just woken up by the rays of Sun and appeared as if it was wearing the Dhothi and Uthariya (shoulder cloth), which appeared as if it was staring because of the several protruding minerals because they appeared as their eyes, which appeared as if it was a mountain chanting Vedas because of the sweet sounds resembling the shruthi of music made by the several spring waters of the mountain, which appeared as if, it was a sage blessing the viewer because of the tall dense Devadaru trees, which was echoing the great sounds of waterfalls, which appeared as if it was shaking because of the black autumn clouds, which appeared as if it was whistling because of the shaking flute like bamboos, which appeared as if it was hissing due to jealousy because of the great snakes in it, which appeared as if it had many sages in trance because of the snow filled caves (all their organs are closed), which had several small hills surrounding resembling pieces of clouds because of which it appeared as if steps are taken to conquer, which had series of peaks which made it look like yawning and staring at the sky, which was shining because of its several caves and several peaks arranged differently, which was surrounded by trees like coconut, Palmyra, Maruth and bamboo, which was decorated by several flowering ornamental climbers spread everywhere, which was filled with various types of animals, which was decorated by the springs of several minerals, which had large number of springs, which was populated by sages, Gandarwas, Yakshas, Kinnaras and Nagas, which had many uprooted climbers and trees, which had many caves in which lions lived, which was populated by tigers and which had many trees with tasty fruits and tubers. 10-21

In the pretty mountain valleys those rocks on which Hanuman stepped with firmness broke in to pieces and fell making lot of sound. 22

That great monkey after climbing the great mountain deciding to go from the south to north started growing up in size. 23

The valorous son of wind, after climbing to the top of the mountain, saw the ocean filled with fishes and snakes. 24

That monkey warrior, who was the son of Wind god, started from the south to north like the wind travelling in the sky. 25

Then that great mountain trampled heavily by the monkey, made huge sounds because of its Bhoothas, shaking peaks and breaking trees and also suddenly was pushed down inside the earth. 26

The trees with flowers broken by the speed of the thighs of Hanuman broke in to pieces and fell on to the earth like they were cut by the holy wheel (Chakra). 27

(Lord Vishnu used the holy wheel as a weapon.)

The roar of those greatly strong lions, which were suffering and came out of the caves, was heard breaking the sky. 28

The Vidhyadara ladies with loosened dresses and shuffled ornaments suddenly came out of the mountain. 29

Those very thick and strong great snakes with their heads and necks were crushed and fell trampled spiting poison. 30

Then the Kinnaras, Nagas, Gandarwas, Yakshas and Vidhyadaras left the great mountain and went and stood in the sky. 31

That very pretty mountain being attacked by the monkey sunk to the world below along with its tall trees and peaks. 32

That mountain which was ten yojanas broad and thirty yojanas tall became equal to the ground level. 33

Making up his mind to cross the horrible salt sea along with shores being touched by waves that monkey effortlessly rose on to the sky. 34

Thus ends the fifty- sixth chapter of Sundara Kanda which is in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 57
Hanuman’s Arrival at Mahendra Mountain

[Hanuman crossed the ocean and was received by the monkeys with happiness. He informed them that he has seen Sita. He also told them about the pitiable but virtuous condition she was in.]

Hanuman like a great ship crossing though the shore less ocean of the sky, which was having the moon as its flower, the worshipful sun as its water fowl, the stars Poosam (pushyam) and Thiruvonam (sravanam) as its swimming water birds, the clouds as its floating plants, the star Punarpoosam (Punarvasu) as its sharks, the planet mars as its crocodile, the rainbow as its great island, the star Swathi as the swan playing here and there, the movement of the cyclone as its waves, the rays of the moon as its cold water, the Nagas, Gandarwas and Yakshas as its fully opened lotus and lily flowers, swam effortlessly with the speed of the wind. 1-4

That great monkey who was the son of wind god and who had the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi moving in the sky appeared as if he was the moon, who was going to swallow the sky, as if he was rubbing the sky, as if he was robbing the sky of its solar system and stars and as if he was dragging the crowd of clouds. 5-6

Those great clouds were seen as white, red, blue, yellow mixed with red and green mixed with red. 7

Hanuman appeared similar to the moon by becoming invisible while entering the sky and shining when he came out of it. 8

Then the warrior Hanuman clothed in white, hiding and coming out of various types of clouds and thus being visible and invisible at times appeared as if he was the moon. 9

Breaking out of the crowds of clouds, that son of wind god appeared as if he was an eagle in the sky. 10

That greatly resplendent Hanuman, after killing several great Rakshasas, after exterminating a horrible army, after spoiling the great city, after creating fear in Ravana, after talking with Vaidehi and after spreading his name everywhere flew above the sky for a second time making booming reverberating sound. 11-12

That valorous Hanuman after patting the great mountain Mainaka travelled with great speed like the arrow shot out of a bow. 13

That great monkey when he neared and saw the Mahendra Mountain, which resembled a cloud roared. 14

That monkey roared like the thunder and all the ten directions reverberated by his sound 15

Anxious to see his close friends, that Hanuman when he neared the other shore, roared loudly and also shook his tail. 16

Because of the roar of Hanuman, who was travelling in path of the sky, which is usually frequented by birds, that entire sky with its solar system appeared as if it was breaking. 17

When it was like this, the very strong monkey heroes anxious to see Hanuman were waiting in the northern shore of the ocean with great anxiety. They at that time listened to the great Hanuman's roar, which was like the cloud's thunder and also the vibration made by his thighs. 18-19

All those monkeys, who normally live in forests, heard the thunderous great roar of that monkey with a mind filled with anxiety 20

All those monkeys hearing the sound of Hanuman, which was echoing in all the four directions, waited to see their friend in person. 21

Jambhavan, who was liked by all the monkey chiefs, with a very happy frame of mind due to love, asked the monkeys to come near him and told them as follows. 22

"This Hanuman has completed his task completely and there is no doubt about it because if he had not completed the job, his roar will not be like this." 23-24

Hearing the roar of the great soul and the sound of vibrations of his hand and thighs, those monkeys jumped with joy, here and there. 25

They with extreme desire to see Hanuman, with great enthusiasm jumped from the tip of one tree to another and from top of one tree to another and joined together to form a crowd. 26

Then those enthusiastic monkeys broke the small flowering branches of the trees and holding them in their hand waved them as if they were waving costly cloth banners. 27

The son of wind God and the very strong Hanuman roared making sounds like the wind entering the mountain cave. 28

Those monkeys stood with folded hands to welcome that great monkey who was rushing towards them like a huge black cloud. 29

Then that monkey, who was as strong as a mountain, got down in one of the thickly wooded peaks of Mahendra Mountain. 30

That Hanuman fully overjoyed jumped on to the mountain spring, from the sky like a featherless hill. 31

Pleased because of that, all those monkey chiefs surrounded Hanuman and came near him. 32

All of them surrounded Hanuman with great love. On seeing him safe they came near him with fully pleased faces, because of that. 33

Those monkeys brought fruits and tubers and offered them to the monkey chief. 34

Then that Hanuman saluted Jambhavan, other teachers and elderly ones as well as Angadha, who was their crown prince. 35

That Hanuman who was a great warrior and who was honourable was praised by those two (Jambhavan and Angadha) and worshipped by other monkeys and shortly informed them that "Sita was seen by me". 36
(Hanuman uses short message to inform all of them that the mission was accomplished).

Hanuman who was very happy, then interlinked arms with Angadha who was the son of Bali and went and sat in a very pretty spot in the forest and addressing all monkeys told them as follows. 37

"That daughter of Janaka who is young, who was occupying the Asoka forest, who was being guarded by cruel Rakshasis, who had one single dropping plait, whose hair was tufted, who was dirty, who does not have reason not to be famous, who is anxious to see Rama and who was tired and famished because of starvation was seen by me. 38-39

All those monkeys hearing the nectar like word, "I have seen" which was also very meaningful, became extremely happy. 40

Some very strong ones started jumping, some others made sounds, some others roared and some others made sounds like" Kil Kila" and others echoed it. 41

Some other monkey warriors because of extreme happiness lifted up their tails and rotated their pretty thick tails over their head. 42

Some incomparably strong monkeys came jumping from the top of the mountain and with great pleasure embraced Hanuman, who was similar to an elephant. 43

Addressing Hanuman, who had comprehensively told the information to all monkey warriors, Angada, told the following good words: 44

"Because you have jumped and crossed the very broad sea and returned back, Hey monkey, there is none equal to you in strength and valour." 45

"What a great devotion you have to our lord, what valour, what courage, that famous holy lady, who is the wife of Rama, has been seen by you because of God's blessings." 46

"It is very good, that Kakustha will forsake the sorrow due to parting of Sita. 47

Those monkeys surrounded the big rocks on which Hanuman, Angadha and Jambhavan were sitting with great happiness in their mind. 48

All those monkey warriors stood still with folded hands interested in hearing about the crossing of the sea, about Lanka, about Sita and about Ravana and were seeing the face of Hanuman. 49-50

At that time the lucky Angadha, who was looked up by several monkeys, appeared similar to Devendra who was looked up by all devas. 51

That very high and great mountain top which was being occupied by Hanuman who was famous and the famous Angadha who wore armlets was resplendent because of its luck. 52

Thus ends the fifty seventh chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 58
Hanuman’s Narration of Lanka

[In this chapter Hanuman informs his monkey friends all that happened after he took off and till he returned. This chapter is the summary of all the previous 57 chapters of Sundara Kanda.]

Hanuman and other very strong monkeys sitting in the top of Mahendra Mountain attained incomparable mental peace at that time. 1

After taking their seat, Jambhavan and other dear, very happy and great monkeys enquired about the events that happened till then from Hanuman, who was the son of wind god, and who was extremely peaceful. 2

"How did you happen to see the holy lady? How is she? How does the ten headed one who does cruel deeds behave with her? We would like to know." 3

"Hey great monkey, please tell all this in detail to us, as it happened. After understanding the happenings we would all decide our future course of action." 4

"What news should we, who have gone there and returned back tell? What aspect of the events should not be told? You who are very intelligent should tell about this to us in detail. 5

(Our Smrithis tell that the truth which hurts should not be told. In fact, later Hanuman does not tell anything about his exploits and anything about the burning of Lanka to Rama feeling that he may think that he is boasting.)

Thus ordered by Jambhavan, that Hanuman became pleased with extreme happiness and saluted Sita by bowing his head and replied. 6

"Did I not rise from the top of Mahendra Mountain, which was standing before you, fixing my mind firmly with a wish to reach the southern shore of the ocean." 7

"Then a golden, divine, pretty and horror filling peaks of one mountain lay in front of me as if it is intended to prohibit my journey. Then I thought as follows." 8

"Since it was in lying in my way. I thought that the mountain was trying to stop me." 9

I neared the divine and golden mountain and decided in my mind that, "This mountain is fit to be broken, " 10

"The peak of that very big mountain which was almost touching the sun, was hit by my swinging tail and was broken in to thousand pieces." 11

"What a surprise, that great mountain understanding well my intentions, called me with great love, "dear son" and making that word sound as if to melt my mind." 12

"Please understand that I am well known as Mainaka and I live in the great ocean. Please also understand that I am a close relation of Wind God and thus your close relative from the father's side." 13

"Child, once upon a time, the great mountains used to have wings and were travelling all over the world giving trouble to people." 14

"The God Indra, who had killed the Asura called Paka, seeing this bad aspect of the mountain, started cutting in to pieces these wings of these mountains." 15

"Hey dear, I only was saved from Indra by your father by being swept away and lodged deeply in to the sea." 16

"Hey, killer of the enemies, I should behave in a way which is of help to Lord Rama, as he is similar to Indra in his valour and is the greatest among those who are charitable" 17

"After I heard the words of the great Mainaka, I made him understand what needs to be done and my mind got prepared for completing my job." 18

"Though Mainaka is a great mountain, it took the shape of a human being and permitted me to go and that great mountain stayed in the middle of the ocean in the form of a mountain itself." 19

(The word ‘Andharhita' used in this sloka does not mean that he disappeared as in the 57th chapter, Hanuman has been seen as patting the mountain on his way back and in Yuddha Kanda, Rama shows Mainaka Mountain on his way back from Lanka.)

"Then I thought of the remaining long distance which remained to be covered and became very fast and sped with vigour for a lot of time." 20

"Then I saw the divine lady Surasa who was the mother of Nagas. That holy lady stood in the middle of the ocean and told me, "Hey monkey chief, devas have decided that you are going to be my food and I have got you after a very long long time. So I am going to eat you." 21-22

"I felt dejected after what Surasa told me and with humble salutation, I told her as follows." 23

"Rama who was the son of Dasaratha along with his brother Lakshmana and wife Sita entered the Dandaka forest and was living there." 24

"His wife Sita was abducted by the bad hearted Ravana. I am going because of the order of Rama as his emissary. You who are living in the Kingdom of Rama should render necessary help to me." 25

"Otherwise after rendering necessary help to Mythili and seeing Rama, I myself will enter your mouth. I am telling this as an oath to you." 26

"That Surasa, who could assume any form that she chose, after being told by me like that said, "Nobody should cross and go beyond me, this is my boon."" 27

"After being told like this by Surasa, within a second I assumed a form of ten Yojanas long and 5 yojanas thick." 28

"At that time she was also able to open her mouth suitable to my size. Seeing her wide open mouth I made my body small." 29

(It is told that he assumed a form of hundred yojanas wide step by step in Chapter 1, Slokas 171-181.)
"Within a very short time, I became as small as a thumb and I went inside her mouth and within a minute came out." 30

"That deva lady Surasa assumed her normal form and addressing me told, "Hey great one, I have become pleased with you. Hey calm one, go as you wish so that you can complete your job. Hey monkey chief, bring Vaidehi with the great Raghava together. Hey Monkey, go further, I am pleased with yourself."" 31-32

"Then I was appreciated by all beings as "Good, very good." And I effortlessly went in to the broad sky like an eagle." 33

"When it was like this, I found that only my shadow was being stopped and I could not see anything anywhere." 34

"Because my speed was taken away, I searched in all the ten directions and I could not find that which was preventing my speed." 35

"I could not see an shape any where. In spite of that a problem has arisen like this in the clear sky. A thought as to 'why is this?" arose in my mind. 36

"Thoughtful as I was, my sight did not spread down. After that I saw a horrible Rakshasi, who was lying inside the water." 37

"She with terrible form told me the following words with enthusiasm which reflected truly her mind, which never gave any room for doubt, which were not causing good and which were like a roar." 38

"Hey, fat one, where are you going? You appear to be proper food for me, who is very hungry. Satisfy my body, which has been starving for a long time." 39

"I agreed to her words and increased the size of my body to a size bigger than her face." 40

"Her mouth also grew big and terrible for eating me. She did not know either my strength or my trick." 41

"So I reduced my very big size in to very small one within a second and removed her heart and jumped back in to the sky." 42

"She who lived in the saline sea, who was as fat as a mountain, fell dead with outstretched hands having lost her hands." 43

"I also heard the words of holy people who were travelling in the sky along with Charanas saying that, "the terrible Rakshasi called Simhika has been killed with in a second by Hanuman."" 44

"After killing her, thinking about that dangerous deed, I covered a long distance and reached the place where the city of Lanka existed and saw the southern ocean shore of that town decorated by mountains, I entered in to the city which was the residence of Rakshasas after the Sun has set in a manner in which even the valorous Rakshasas could not see me." 45-46

"At the time of my entering, a lady with an action similar to the clouds of deluge roared and came before me." 47

"Then at that time, I hit and defeated her, who came to kill me, who was horrible looking and who had hairs like a raging fire, with a folded left fist and she with great fear told me "Hey, valorous one, I am the city of Lanka and I have been defeated by your valour and because of that you have become capable of defeating the entire Rakshasas." And then I entered in side the city during Pradosha (after setting of the sun and before night fell)." 48-49

"After searching for the daughter of Janaka that entire night, I entered the harem of Ravana, but I was not able to see that pretty lady." 50

"I was not able to see her in the palace of Ravana also and because of that, being drowned in the sea of sorrow whose shores were not visible to me." 51

"I who was very sad, then saw a very great garden which was very peculiar and surrounded by golden walls." 52

"I jumped and crossed the wall and saw a garden with many trees. In the middle of that Asoka forest I saw a huge Simshuba tree. I climbed and sat on that tree and saw a golden forest of Banana plants." 53-54

"I saw sitting on that Simshuba tree at a slight distance attractive coloured and lotus petal eyed Sita who was dark, who had a faded face due to starvation, who had dust coated hair, who was looking famished due to sorrow, who was wearing the same cloth that we saw earlier, and who was only concentrating her mind in the good of her husband, surrounded by Rakshasis, who have horrible form, who eat flesh and blood and who are cruel by nature and this sight was similar to a deer being looked after by a group of tigers." 55-57

"With lot of difficulty I reached the place where I could properly see Sita, who was bullied by the Rakshasis frequently, who was in a miserable state, who was doing the only work of concentrating her mind on her husband, who had made up her hair in a single lock, who was lying down on the floor, who was like a lotus flower in winter, who was dejected because she saw no way to escape from Ravana, who had decided to die immediately and who was doe eyed." 58-59

"Seeing the lady who was wife of Rama in that state of not being subject to notoriety, I sat on the Simshuba tree and observed her carefully." 60

"Then I heard the very loud sound of "Hala Hala" of the anklets and waist belts emanating from the palace of Ravana." 61

"At that time being very sad, I made my form in to a very tiny one and sat without moving in between the leaves of the Simshuba tree like a bird." 62

"Afterwards, the wives of Ravana and the very strong Ravana came towards the place where Sita has been kept. Sita with the pretty thighs seeing the chief of Rakshasas coming towards her, folded and drew her thighs towards her and hid her chest by both her hands." 63-64

(This stanza gives an indication of the dress which she was wearing. It appears to be the two piece dress worn by women of the olden times.)

"That base ten headed one, addressing that Sita, who was in great difficulty, who was trembling, who was seeing here and there, who was very sad because she saw no way out of her difficulties, who was depressed and who was praying to God, told, "Hey Sita, respect me. Hey proud one, you are not recognizing me because of your pride. So if you continue in this state for another two months, I will drink all your blood."" 65-67

"Hearing these words of Ravana who was a bad soul, Sita became very angry and told the following great words." 68

"Hey base Rakshasa, Why is it that your tongue does not get detached because of saying these bad words addressing the daughter in law of Dasaratha who belonged to the clan of Ikshu Vaku and the wife of the very powerful Rama." 69

"Hey sinner. who is un-gentlemanly, your valour which consisted of stealing me in the absence of my husband and when he was not able to see me is definitely meager." 70

"You are not at all equal to Rama and you would not be appointed as a servant of him for that Raghava is truthful, worshipful and great admirer of war." 71

(The idea expressed in the last sloka that he was a deceit and poor in war is expressed in different words.)

"Hearing these words from Janaki, which were demeaning that ten headed one, glittered in anger like the fire of the funeral pyre." 72

"He rolled his two blood red eyes and with his right fist started killing Sita and his ladies shouted "Ha, Ha" " 73

"Mandodari, the wife of the ten headed one and who was a great lady, stood up from the middle of the ladies and was stopped from carrying out his intention." 74

(In the 40th sloka of 22nd chapter it is mentioned that he was prevented by Dhanya Mala. Scholars are of the opinion that Dhanya Mala was a different name of Mandodari. She is the daughter of Maya the Asura architect and given as a gift to him by Goddess Parvathy.)

"She told him, who was in great passion, using sweet words, "Hey Ravana, who is equal to Indra, what is the use of Sita to you?" 75

"Hey Lord, be happy by taking pleasure from the Deva, Gandharwa and Yaksha maidens who are here. What are you going to do with Sita?" 76

"Then that very strong Rakshasa was pacified by the ladies, who were with him and was taken back to his palace." 77

"After the departure of the ten headed one, those horrible faced Rakshasis without mercy and using cruel words, terrorized Sita." 78

"Sita considered their words as cheap and as mere grass and the tumult created by them became in vain before Sita." 79

"Calmed down after their useless shouting those flesh eating Rakshasis informed Ravana that "The decision of Sita is indeed firm."" 80

"Then all of them after being dejected and depressed joined together surrounded her on all four sides and started sleeping." 81

"After all of them were asleep, Sita who was always only thinking of her husband's interest, becoming extremely sad because of her dangerous state, wept." 82

"Then Trijata rose from their midst and spoke the following words." 83

"You can eat me just now. This lady who is the daughter in law of Dasaratha and the daughter of Janaka will not be destroyed." 84

(This is again contradictory of earlier narration. Trijata told about her dream to the Rakshasis while they were terrorizing Sita.)

"Just now I truly, saw a dream which is terrible, making my hairs all over my body stand out. It was about the destruction of all Rakshasas and the victory of her Lord." 85

"Let us all beg this Vaidehi, for being protected without any condition from Raghava. I think this is the only proper thing to do." 86

"Such a sad person about whom this dream was seen is going to be devoid of all sorrows soon and is going to attain incomparable happiness in several ways." 87

"Mythili, who is the daughter of Janaka, would become pleased the moment you salute her." 88

"Then that lady became shy and became happy thinking of the victory of her husband and told, "If this is true, I would definitely be a support to all of you." 89

(These words of Sita are not there in the earlier narration.)

"Seeing her in that miserable state, I patiently thought of her in my mind but my mind did not rest in peace." 90

"I thought of a method by which conversation can be initiated between me and Janaki. So I sang the praise of the Ikshuvaku dynasty itself." 91

"That holy lady hearing the praise of the Kings of her dynasty, with tear stained eyes saw me and questioned me as follows." 92

"Hey monkey chief, who are you? For what reason and how did you come here? How did attachment develop between you and Rama ? Please tell all this in detail to me." "Hearing her words I answered her thus." 93-94

"Hey holy lady, your husband Rama has gained the help from some one called Sugreeva. He is the King of monkeys, very strong, very valorous and a great warrior." 95

"Please know that I who have come here is his minister Hanuman. Your husband Rama, who does any job fully, has send me here as his emissary." 96

"Hey famous lady, that son of Dasaratha, who is a lion among men and also a great gentleman, has sent his signet ring to you as a memento." 97

"So lady, I am waiting for your orders. What should I do? I can take you to Rama and Lakshmana, What do you think about it?" 98

"Sita, who is the daughter of Janaka, after hearing this and understanding perfectly my words, replied "Let Raghava himself take me back after killing Ravana,"" 99

"I bowed to the lady, who was beyond any blemish, with my head and after saluting her begged her to give a memento which would make Rama happy." 100

"Then Sita addressing me told "Be pleased to take that great gem seeing which Rama the valorous would appreciate you a lot." 101

"After saying thus that great lady gave me a wonderful gem. Alas! she became very sad and requested me to tell the news by only words." 102

"After that having finished my allotted job, I saluted the princess and went round her with an intention of returning back." 103

"She then thought every thing over within her mind and told, "Hey Hanuman, please inform my story to Raghava."" 104

"Please take that action which would result in the immediate arrival of those valorous Rama and Lakshmana along with Sugreeva." 105

"My allotted time to be alive is only two more months. If this does not happen, I would die like an orphan and Kakustha (Rama) would not be able to see me." 106

"Hearing those pitiable words, I became very angry and I also decided my future course of action." 107

"Because of that my body grew like a mountain. At that time desiring for war I started destroying that forest (Asoka Vana)." 108

"Those scary faced Rakshasis woke up at that time and saw that forest, which was full of scared animals and birds, being destroyed." 109

"They assembled in groups here and there in the forest neared and saw me and informed Ravana." 110

"Hey very powerful King, one bad monkey, without the knowledge of your valour has destroyed your forest which cannot be entered by anybody." 111

"Hey King of Kings, that monkey should certainly be destroyed. So please sentence that ignorant one which has done undesirable acts against you to death." 112

"Rakshasas called Kinkaras who are difficult to win over and who obey the mind of Ravana were sent by him on hearing this and reached there." 113

"In the corner of the forest, I killed eighty thousand of them armed with spear and Thorne sticks with a steel pestle." 114

"Some among them, who escaped death went fast and informed Ravana about the destruction of the large army." 115

"I got renewed vigour and wisdom and left the place where I was and neared the victory stage. I killed several Rakshasas who were there with a pillar removed from the stage and thus that stage which was an ornament to the city of Lanka was destroyed." 116

"After that Jambumali, the son of Prahastha, along with horrible rakshasas of terrible form were ordered to fight with me." 117

"I killed that Rakshasa, who was an expert in war, along with his big army and those who accompanied them with the same terrible iron pestle itself." 118

"Hearing this the great King Ravana sent the very powerful sons of ministers along with a big army which consisted of also foot soldiers, I sent all of them to the city of Yama using the same iron pestle." 119-120

"Having heard that the valorous sons of ministers were killed in war, Ravana sent five valorous army commanders and I killed all of them along with their army. 121-122

"After that the ten headed Ravana send Aksha, who was his son, as well as a great hero along with several Rakshasas." 123

"I caught hold of the prince, who was an expert in war, who was the son of Mandodari, who rose to the sky and who was wearing steel armour by his two legs, rotated him in the sky and killed him." 124

"Having heard the death of Aksha that ten headed Ravana, became very angry and send secondly Indrajit who was very angry, who was very strong, and an expert in war." 125

"I became greatly pleased by making him, who was a hero among Rakshasas, and other Rakshasas very weak and dejected." 126

"Having been sent with great hope by Ravana and having been accompanied by very many valorous Rakshasas, that hero seeing that his army though valorous was being destroyed and unable to correctly estimate my strength, became jittery at that time and made me a prisoner by Brahmasthra itself." 127-128

"Then those Rakshasas, who were there, tied me with ordinary rope and dragged and took me to the presence of Ravana." 129

"I being there within his sight, was conversed to by that bad soul Ravana and was asked about my coming to Lanka and about the killing of Rakshasas." 130

""I told that, all that were done for the sake of Sita." 131

"I am the adopted son of the wind God and am a monkey called Hanuman. Wanting to see you in person I was waiting to be brought near you from the place in front of Sita." 132

"Please know that I am an emissary of Rama and a minister of Sugreeva and I have come to you along with the message of Rama." 133

"That greatly resplendent King Sugreeva sent the news of his well being. He also told these words which are essence of Dharma (justice), Kama (desire) and Moksha (salvation), which are very suitable to this occasion, and which are good for you." 134

"The great Hero Rama promised his friendship to me who was living in the dense forests of Rishya Mooka." 135

"He told me as follows, "King, my wife has been abducted by a Rakshasa and you have to help me to the best of your capacity willingly."" 136

"Then these words were told by me, "Please also undertake to help in killing Bali for my sake."" 137

"That great Lord Raghava, who was accompanied by Lakshmana signed a treaty, with fire as a witness, with Sugreeva whose Kingdom was stolen by Bali." 138

"After killing Bali by one arrow in war by Rama, I who was the lord among monkeys was appointed as their King." 139

"It is our duty to help him as much as possible in this case. It is by him according to laws of justice that an emissary has been sent to you." 140

"Let Sita be returned forthwith and be presented to Raghava. If this is done monkey warriors will not destroy your valour." 141

"Who does not know the prowess of the monkeys, who are being invited in to the presence of even the devas." 142

"I told him that, "the monkey King told me to tell all these." And he stared at me with ire filled eyes as if to burn me." 143

"Without realizing my strength that sinful cruel Rakshasa named Ravana ordered that I should be killed." 144

"There, his brother Vibishana, who was a wise one, begged him as follows for my sake." 145

"Hey, Chief of Rakshasas, do not do like this. This opinion has to be rejected because you should take action according to the laws of Kings." 146

"Hey, King of Rakshasas, in the laws of Kings no where the killing of an emissary is prescribed. It is necessary to understate the real state of affairs from an emissary who tells the good of his side." 147

"Hey, greatly valorous one, even though a very great crime is committed, killing of an emissary is never done but he can be disfigured." 148

"Thus requested by Vibishana, Ravana ordered the Rakshasas, "This only has to be done. Let its tail be burnt.”" 149

"According to his orders my entire tail was covered with torn cotton cloths and ropes made of jute." 150

"Then those very valorous Rakshasas beat me with whatever firewood they got as well as their fists and set fire to my tail." 151

"Though I was caught by the Rakshasas and tied by several ropes, I had the intention of the seeing the town in broad day light, I never even felt slightly tired." 152

"Because it was like that, those Rakshasa warriors brought me to the entrance of the city and in the main avenue shouted at me who was imprisoned and whose tail burning by fire." 153

"From there I made my very big body to a very small one, got loosened from the ties and again assumed the original big form." 154

"I killed all those Rakshasas with a steel pestle and with a jump climbed on the top of the door of their town." 155

"Similar to the fire of deluge burning all people, I without hesitation burnt the entire town along with its houses and towers using my burning tail." 156

"Then I started thinking with sadness as follows, "The entire city has been made in to ash. There is no place in Lanka, which is not burnt. And so definitely Janaki would not be alive. There is no doubt about it that, I who was trying to burn Lanka also burnt Sita also. Thus the great job of Rama was made useless by me."" 157-158

"Then I heard the sweet news from the Charanas, who were talking of strange news told that "Janaki alone has not been burnt and did not suffer any sorrow."" 159

"Hearing the wonderful news that Sita did not suffer any sorrow and from the reasons told hereafter I felt consoled." 160

"Even when my tail was burning, I did not feel any heat and the wind was blowing cold and also my mind was happy." 161

"I became happy because of the thought in my mind of those real happenings, various acts, which resulted in good and the predictions, made as well as the words of the sages. Even when it was like that, I met Vaidehi once again and bid her farewell." 162

"From there I reached the top of mountain called Arishta and with a deep desire to see all of you started my return jump." 163

"After that travelling in the path of the sky frequented by Wind, Moon, Sun, Sidhas, Gandarwas and others I have just seen you all." 164

"By the power of Raghava and your shining mien, I was able to complete the job of Sugreeva." 165

"I have told all that has happened in this case in a summary manner. Let it be decided as to what is to be done in future based on this." 166

Thus ends the fifty eighth chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 59
Hanuman’s Narration of Sita

[Hanuman then narrates the problems of Sita in Lanka in a graphical manner. He tells the other monkeys that as a virtuous woman she herself could kill Ravana but is not doing so, because it would bring bad fame to her husband, ]

After telling all these in detail, Hanuman told the important matter that needed to be told and ended his speech. 1

"My mind has been set at calm after seeing the virtuousness of Sita personally. The work of Rama has born fruits. Similarly the zest of Sugreeva also has borne fruits." 2

(Work of Rama is searching for Sita.)

"Ravana, who is the chief of Rakshasas and one who is great for doing penances, is certainly capable of protecting the entire world. If he becomes angry he can also destroy the world. His body has not been destroyed after touching her because of the power of his penance." 3

[Translators like Kamban and Thulasidas could not bear, Sita to be touched by Ravana and so they have changed this aspect in their translation. While Kamban says that Ravana uprooted her house along with her, Thulasidas assumes that she whom he had taken to Lanka is only of Maya (illusory) Sita.]

"Whatever action taken, when blackened by anger, by that virtuous lady, who is the daughter of Janaka, cannot even be done by the flames of fire that are touched by hand." 4

"That lady who is the epitome of justice is steeped in the ocean of sorrow below a Simshuba tree in the middle of Asoka forest owned by that bad soul, Ravana." 5

"Like the crescent of moon hidden by series of clouds, she is surrounded by Rakshasis and has wilted due to sorrow and lives a life without luster." 6

"That daughter of Janaka has been imprisoned, but that virtuous pretty lady does not bother about the very strong Ravana." 7

"That Vaidehi, who is virtuous considered from any aspect, without any other thought, always thinks with love of Rama like the Indrani does about Indra." 8

"Sita is still dressed in the cloth she was dressed when abducted, she is coated with dust, faded because of sorrow, is very lean and always thinks about the good of her husband." 9

"I saw her in the garden of the harem surrounded by ugly looking Rakshasis, who were terrorizing her often." 10

"I wish that she, who is doe eyed, who always thinks of her husband, who had made up her hair in a single bundle, who is sleeping on the floor, who is like the lotus flower in winter, who had decided to commit suicide because she was not able to see any way to escape from Ravana and who is in a miserable situation, gained confidence with lot of effort." 11-12

"After that I conversed with her. She was informed of everything. She became happy on hearing the treaty between Rama and Sugreeva." 13

"That Rama, who is of firm conviction, who follows all good principles and who is great would become only an instrument in case of killing Ravana. It is only because of her devotion to her husband that she is not killing Ravana." 14

(Hanuman clears the doubt of other monkeys, who feel, that as a virtuous woman she herself could have killed Ravana. He tells them that she is not doing so because of her devotion to her husband.)

"By nature she is lean, because of her being taken away from her husband's company. She has further become lean similar to the one who learns without understanding." 15

"That Sita who is great is thus drowned in sorrow. Let us now do what all should be done in this case." 16-17

Thus ends the fifty ninth chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 60
Angadha’s Opinion

[Angadha who is the crown prince and leader of the team tells his opinion as to what needs to be done. He feels that they should wage a war, destroy the Rakshasas and take Sita along with them. The wise Jambhavan diplomatically points out that they should do according to the wish of Rama.]

Hearing these words, Angadha the son of Bali told as follows. 1

(Many available texts of Sundra Kandam ascribe these words also to Hanuman. But this version appears more natural and truthful.)

"Because of the information given to you all now, let us all convince the great nobles like Jambhavan, to see those two princes along with Vaidehi." 2

"I myself alone am sufficient to kill all the Rakshasas, the city of Lanka and the very strong Ravana by my strength." 3

"Should I add further when all of you monkeys, who are heroes, strong ones, courageous ones, and those ones, who know the science of archery are surrounding me?" 4

(The monkeys including Angadha and Sugreeva do not use archery in war but fight with trees and hills.)

"By myself fighting the war alone, I will be able to kill Ravana, his army, people who accompany him and his brothers." 5

"I can destroy Brahmasthra, Indrasthra, Rudrasthra, Vayvasthra, Varunasthra and also those which are not known to us in war but sent by Indrajit. I can kill all Rakshasas. Once I get your permission, my prowess would subdue him." 6-7

"The incomparable rain of stones which I am capable of sending without rest is capable of even killing devas. Is it necessary for me to mention Rakshasas?" 8

"Even the ocean can cover all its shore and even the Mandhara Mountain can be shaken, but the army of our enemies cannot shake Jambhavan." 9

"The destruction of all those people standing in front of Rakshasa armies can singly be done by the son of Wind God himself." 10

"By the speed of the thighs of Panasa and Neela even the Mandhara Mountain could be destroyed and so what of the Rakshasa soldiers?" 11

"Please tell one single individual among Devas, Asuras, Yakshas, Gandharwas, Nagas and birds who are capable of facing Mainda and Dwividha in war." 12

"They both are very lucky monkey chiefs who are the sons of Aswini Devas. I do not know any one who can fight with them in the battle field." 13

"Both of them have got their strength from the boon of Brahma and have great prowess. They have drunk nectar and are the best among all the monkeys." 14

"Don't you know that in the ancient times Lord Brahma, who is the grand father of the entire world, for the sake of respecting Aswini Devas, has given those incomparable stature to them and also non destruction by others as a boon." 15

"Those two great monkey warriors because of the power conferred to them by the boon, beat the great army of Devas and escaping from them and also drank nectar." 16

"There is no need for other monkeys but these two powerful ones alone are capable of destroying the city of Lanka with its army consisting of horses and chariots." 17

"Hey monkeys, it is not proper at this time for us, who know everything, to go in front of Raghava without Sita." 18

"I think that it is not proper for you, who are famous and endowed with valour, to go there and say that, we saw the holy lady but we did not bring her." 19

"Hey monkey chiefs, in this world, which consists of Devas and Asuras, there is no one who can be compared with us in the matter of jumping and valour." 20

"What else is there in this matter but to take Sita along with us from that place where large numbers of Rakshasas have been killed by Hanuman? " 21

The very able Jambhavan who was the chief among monkeys being pleased told the following very meaningful words to Angadha after hearing his opinion. 22

"Hey, prince, what you intend to do is not something impossible for us now. But please see that what should be done should be based on the intelligent thought of Rama. 23

Thus ends the sixtieth chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 61
Honey Forest Destruction

[The monkeys start their return journey and reached the honey forest of Sugreeva. Being given permission to drink the honey, they destroy the forest, insult and hurt Dadhimuka who was the uncle of Sugreeva and in charge of the security of the forest.]

The great monkey Hanuman and other monkey warriors including Angadha agreed to the suggestion of Jambhavan. All those monkeys who were as big as Meru and Mandhara mountains, who were like elephants, who were aroused, who were very strong, who were having huge sized bodies, who had thought properly of methods to complete the work of Raghava, which would bring them great fame and had achieved their objectives and who were enthusiastic because of that, who were in a hurry to tell the good news and who were anxious to fight the war became determined to show their gratitude to Rama and followed Hanuman, who was praised by all beings, who was very strong, who was very clever and who was very wise, as if they were carrying him with their eyes and left Mahendra mountains and rushed together as if to hide the sky. 2-6

Those monkeys who had jumped towards the sky and who were rushing fast within a short time reached a forest which was full of plants and climbers and which was similar to a garden. 7

That forest, which could not be entered by any animal, which was stealing the minds of all beings and which was being looked after properly was the "Honey Forest" of Sugreeva. 8

This forest was being protected by Dadhimuka, who was a monkey chief and also a great hero, uncle of Sugreeva and a great soul. 9

Those monkeys reaching that forest which was very dear to the Monkey King became very much enthusiastic. 10

Then those monkeys, who were brown like honey, seeing that honey forest, became very happy and requested for honey. 11

That crown prince after making the elderly monkeys agree for the proposal gave them permission to drink the honey. 12

Those monkeys who were even earlier happy after getting the permission became even happier and some of them started dancing. 13

Some of them were singing, some falling down, some dancing, some laughing, some jumping and falling down, some running here and there, some jumping and running and some prattling. 14

Some of them embraced each other, some started pushing each other, some shouting at each other and some playing with each other. 15

Some of them jumped from one tree to another, some jumping to the ground from the edge of the tree and some caught hold of the edges of trees crown by jumping and running. 16

One laughing monkey approached a singing one, one with a weeping face approached a laughing one, another approached the crying one dancing all the way and another approached the dancing one, shouting all the way. 17
That monkey army because of drinking of honey lost their senses and became disorderly. There was none among them who was not delirious and there was none among them who was not satisfied. 18

The monkey called Dadhivakthra seeing that the trees were bereft of leaves and flowers and also seeing that the forest was being destroyed fully became very angry and prevented them. 19

(Please note that this monkey is different from Dadhimukha who was the uncle of Sugreeva.)

He who was the security in chief of the forest, who was the oldest among the monkey chiefs, who was very heroic, after being insulted in several ways by those, who have lost their senses, thought of the methods by which he can save the forest. 20

He shouted very bad words addressing some monkeys, kicked several times with his feet some, quarrelled with some entering their midst and requesting with good words some of them. 21

They who were prevented by those commanding words and they who were not realizing that they were doing mistake joined together and surrounded him, fell on him and dragged him round. 22

All those monkeys being out of their senses scarred him with their nails, bit him by their teeth and destroyed the forest fully with their hands and legs. 23

Thus ends the sixty first chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 62
Dadhimuka's Resistance

[The guard of the garden, Dadhimuka who was the uncle of Sugreeva tried his best to stop the destruction of the honey forest. Angadha became very angry and hit him. Then Dadhimukha reached the presence of Sugreeva along with his followers.]

Hanuman, who was the greatest among all monkeys and who was their leader, told them, "Hey monkeys, without any worry, please drink the honey. I would drive away your enemies." 1-2

Hearing the words of Hanuman, Angadha, who was the leader of monkeys, told with a very clear mind, "Let the monkeys drink the honey. Even if Hanuman's words are not proper, I have to definitely obey them. But if they are like this, need it be questioned?" 3-4

Those monkeys who were chiefs among monkeys, hearing the words from Angadha's face, became very happy and worshipped him saying, "great, great." 5

All the monkeys praising the monkey chief Angadha went speedily like an overflowing river to the places where more honey was there. 6

Because they were able to see Mythili and knew about her and because they got permission to do as they please, in the matter of honey, also because of their power, they disregarded the security personnel and drank the honey and also ate lot of fruits. 7

The security staffs who were interested in the welfare of the garden and who came there quickly were beaten by the other monkeys by jumping and in several different ways by the other monkeys. 8

They all joined together plucked the big rock like beehives and started drinking from them. Some of them dropped and broke these hives. 9

Some of them, who were of the colour of honey, after drinking the honey, wasted the remaining honey by pouring them. 10

Some of them, who became tipsy, managed to stand erect holding the branches of the tree. Some of them spread the leaves of the tree below it and lay down on them. 11

Then some of those monkeys, affected by the honey, were not able to stand firmly and started rolling and some of them who were almost mad started pushing each other because of their enthusiasm. 12

Some of those monkeys, who became affected by the honey, slept on the earth itself. Some of them started jumping and some of them with enthusiasm made bird like sounds. 13

Some of them did some other things and some of them did something else and started laughing. Some did some thing and started shouting. Some others got up, after the effects were worn out. 14

Then those servants of Dadhimuka and the security personnel, who were still there being driven out by the very powerful monkeys, ran to different corners. 15

Being dragged by their knees and being shown their asshole by those monkeys they became terribly worried and approached Dadhimuka and told as follows. 16
(Showing their asshole towards those whom they are angry is a well-known habit of monkeys.)

"Because Hanuman gave permission, the forest of honey has been destroyed by force. We were also dragged by our knees and shown their assholes." 17

The forest protector and monkey Dadhimuka hearing that the honey forest has been destroyed became angry and consoled those monkeys thus. 18

"Come along. We would drive away those drunken monkeys who have lost their strength by our strength." 19

Those brave monkey chiefs hearing the orders of Dadhimuka returned along with him speedily to the honey forest. 20

Dadhimuka uprooted a tree on his way and ran fast. Those monkeys also ran along with him. 21

Those monkeys who were angry picked up rocks, trees and mountains in their hand and ran towards the place where those monkey chiefs were assembled. 22

Hence those heroic watchmen attacked those monkeys who have lost their strength and who were sitting on the tree and the floor. 23

Those courageous ones having in their hands Sala tree, palm trees and stones rushed to the place in order to obey their leader. 24

While things were like this, Monkey chiefs like Hanuman seeing that Dadhimuka was angry came running there speedily. 25

That time Angadha became angry and beat Dadhimukha, who was very intelligent, who was very strong, who was a gentleman, who was running there with a tree in his hand, by both his hands. 26

He who was blind with extreme happiness did not bother to think that "This man should be respected by me" and pushed him on the ground and kicked him suddenly. 27

That heroic monkey chief (Dadhimukha) with wounds in shoulder, thighs and hands and being covered all over with blood, lay on the floor unconscious for some time. 28

He, who was the uncle of King Sugreeva, gained consciousness speedily, became much angrier than before and prevented the honey drunk monkeys with a staff. 29

That monkey chief being disregarded by those monkeys reached a solitary place along with his servants. 30

"Let these people not be bothered about. Let us go to the place where our broad necked chief Sugreeva is there along with Rama." 31

"We will inform our King that all the faults are with Angadha and as soon as he hears this, he will become angry and kill all these monkeys." 32

"Because this pretty honey forest which cannot be even neared by devas, was inherited by him from his ancestor who is a great soul." 33

"That Sugreeva would kill all these monkeys with short life span and who are after honey along with their friends by beating them with a stick." 34

"These who have disregarded the order of the King deserve to be killed and our anger by which we are not able to control will definitely bear fruit." 35

That strong Dadhimuka thus telling to his gardeners, along with those gardeners, jumped and started on his journey. 36

That monkey reached the place where Sugreeva, the son of Sun God was staying within a second. 37

After seeing Rama, Lakshmana and Sugreeva he got down from the sky on the plain ground. 38

That monkey Dadhimuka, who was the chief of the security people, surrounded by the security staff, went near Sugreeva with a faded face and with folded hands kept over his head and saluted him by prostrating at his feet by his head. 39

Thus ends the sixty second chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 63
Dadhimuka's Information

[Dadhimuka along with his other security staff is not able to succeed and are ill treated by Angadha and other monkeys. So he reaches Sugreeva's presence and complaints to him about the behavior of the monkeys. Sugreeva becomes happy concluding that Sita has been found out and informs Rama and Lakshmana. He requests Dadhimuka to go back and request all the monkeys to come to his presence immediately.]

Seeing the monkey, who bowed and saluted by his head, the King of the Monkeys, holding his chest immediately spoke the following words. 1

"Hey hero, get up and get up immediately. Why did you fall at my feet? Please tell me everything without leaving any particulars. You would get safety." 2

The very intelligent Dadhimuka thus consoled by the great soul Sugreeva got up and told the following. 3

"Hey King, that honey forest has not been made a place, where others to enter by Riksha Yajas nor Bali and nor by your worshipful self. In spite of this, it has been destroyed by the monkeys." 4

"In spite of their being prevented by the security staff of the forest and without bothering about them, all the monkeys drank all the honey and are still drinking it." 5

"Some of them poured whatever was remaining there itself. All of them were destroying honey like that. Some of them who were prevented bent their eye brows and showed it to us." 6

"Not only that, these security people, who went to prevent them, were also driven away and beaten by those monkey chiefs." 7

"Hey, chief of monkeys, at that stage these monkeys were terrorized by the numerous monkey heroes with angry red eyes." 8

"Some of them were beaten by hand and some knocked by knees. Not only that some of them were dragged and shown their assholes." 9

"When you yourself is the Lord, these heroes are troubled like this and the entire honey forest is being destroyed as they pleased." 10

Killer of enemies and a very knowledgeable one Lakshmana asked Sugreeva, who was being requested like this, as follows regarding Dadhimuka. 11

"Hey King, why did this monkey, who is a forest guard, come here? About what is he telling you with so much sorrow?" 12

The master of the words Sugreeva, who was thus asked by the great soul Lakshmana, told the following to him. 13

"Gentleman Lakshmana, this monkey hero Dadhimuka is telling me about the destruction of honey forest by Angadha and other monkeys." 14
"They have come to the honey forest. So the work has been successfully completed by them." 15

"Hanuman himself has found the holy lady and there is no doubt about it. Nothing else seems to be possible. No others except Hanuman can be the causal agent for completing this job." 16

"Only, in that great monkey, the will to complete the job, the needed intelligence, determination, valour and wisdom are there." 17

"Not only that, in any mission, where Angadha is the head, Jambhavan is the leader and Hanuman is there to decide as to what aspect has to be done by whom and when it has to be done, the result cannot be other than expected." 18

"Angadha and other heroes, who have returned after searching the southern side, have destroyed the honey forest feeling that it will not be a crime." 19

"The honey forest has been destroyed by them, who have returned back and such criminal act would not have been attempted by them, if they have not succeeded. Not only that they have enjoyed and the entire forest has been destroyed." 20

"Not only that, they have broken the knees of those who went united to prevent them." 21

This great and famous monkey hero who is known as Dadhimuka has come here to tell us this good news." 22

"Hey Valorous hero and the son of Sumithra, think about it. The monkeys have returned back and have started drinking honey and so Sita has been located." 23

"Hey great one, those monkeys, who are very knowledgeable, would not dare to destroy this forest which has been got as a boon without locating Vaidehi." 24

When the very famous Lakshmana was hearing this news which was giving pleasure to the ears, Rama became happier thinking that good period has arrived." 25

That Sugreeva hearing the words of Dadhimuka became very happy and instructed him as to what has to be done immediately. 26

"The products of the forest have been eaten by them, who have succeeded. Because of that I have become very happy. This act which has been done by them, who have succeeded, has my approval also." 27

"I, along with Rama and Lakshmana, am very anxious to see them, who are as valorous as lion and have as their leader Hanuman and hear from them all the news regarding and rescuing Sita." 28

He, who was the King of monkeys seeing that those two princes were happy at the completion of the job and also seeing them with eyes blooming because of happiness and also thinking that job taken up has positive result, became extremely happy with scintillating limbs. 29

Thus ends the sixty third chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.

Chapter: 64
Hanuman at Kishkinda

[Hanuman and other monkeys return back to Kishkinda and inform the good news of having found Sita and her being virtuous.]

Thus told by Sugreeva, at that time, the well pleased Dadhimuka saluted Raghava, Lakshmana and Sugreeva. 1

After saluting the very strong Raghava and Sugreeva, he rose up in the sky along with his valorous monkeys. 2

He returned by the path by which he came and went with the same speed, jumped from the sky and entered the forest. 3

After reaching the honey forest he saw that all the monkeys have got rid of the effect of honey and saw them urinating the honey and water drunk by them. 4

That hero went near them. He then addressed Angadha with folded hands and with clear mind and told the following willing words. 5

"Hey peaceful master, you were prevented by the watchmen due to their ignorance. Please do not get angry that they did not give you respect befitting your status." 6

"Hey very strong one, being the crown prince you are the owner of this forest. The crime in not recognizing this was committed because of ignorance. Please pardon this." 7

"Hey blameless one, I ran and have informed your father's brother about the arrival of you along with all these monkeys." 8

"He became extremely pleased to know about your safe arrival along with the monkeys. Even after hearing that the forest was destroyed, he did not become angry." 9

"Sugreeva, who is the King of all monkeys and also your father's brother, ordered me, "Send all of them immediately to this place."" 10

Angadha, the monkey chief, who was great among those. who has great control over words, hearing these sweet words of Dadhimuka told thus to the other monkey chiefs. 11

"Hey, Chiefs of monkeys, I understand that the above news has come from Rama. So hey, monkeys who always win over their enemies, we should not waste our time in unnecessary work here and cause delay." 12

"Hey monkeys, have you not drunk sufficient honey and taken rest. Let us all go to the place where my father Sugreeva is there. What else can be done now?" 13

(Can also be translated as "What else is remaining except going to Sugreeva's presence?")

"Hey monkey chiefs, since I am to obey your wishes, all of you please decide and tell me, what has to be done so that I will do accordingly." 14

"Since you have completed the job entrusted to you, it is not proper for me to command you. So even though I am the crown prince, I do not think that I posses the power to command you." 15

Hearing these blemish less words of Angadha, the monkeys became very happy and replied thus. 16

"Hey King of monkeys, which boss will tell us thus? Because people intoxicated with wealth would consider that they are everything."" 17

"These words are well suited to a great one like you. It cannot come from any one else. These herald the great positions which you are going to occupy." 18

"We, who are waiting for commands from you to go to the place where Sugreeva, who is the King of all monkeys and who is capable of right action, have all become ready." 19

"Unless you give leave none of the monkeys can take even a step to go anywhere. Hey, monkey chief, we are telling this truthfully." 20

When they told like this Angadha told, "Yes, let us go." Hearing this, those very strong monkeys jumped and rose in to the sky. 21

All those monkey warriors darkened the entire sky and went one after the other like the stones thrown in to the sky by catapults. 22

Those very fast monkeys, travelling swiftly in the sky, made sounds like the clouds hit by wind. 23

When Angadha was nearing the place, the monkey King Sugreeva told thus and consoled Rama, who was sad and had lotus like eyes. 24

"Good news to you. There is no doubt that the holy lady has been found out for they all dare not come back here after the stipulated date." 25

"Without completing the job, Angadha, who is greatest among monkeys, who is a great hero and who is the crown prince will definitely not return." 26

"Suppose they have not completed the job entrusted, they would be afraid and come with a faded face." 27

"Suppose the monkey chief Angadha is not enthusiastic, he will never dare to destroy the forest, founded by my Father and Grand Father and protected by my elders." 28

(Riksha Yajas was the son of Brahma and when he took a dip in the pond of Brahma Loka, he became a female monkey. Bali and Sugreeva were born to him as a result of love with Indra and Sun God. He later became male and brought up Bali and Sugreeva. The honey forest was given to him by his father Brahma. So the above can be translated as "the forest given by my Grand Father to my Father.")

"So Rama, who is the darling son of Kausalya (who was born to Kausalya because of her luck) and who has observed all suitable penances, console yourself. There is no doubt that Hanuman and nobody else has found out the holy lady". 29

(There is an interpretation that Kausalya is indeed lucky that Sita has been found out for otherwise Rama would not live. Please also note that this phrase has been borrowed and put in the Venkatesa Suprabhatham.)

"Hey very knowledgeable one, there is none except Hanuman who can complete this job, for only in Hanuman the necessary efficiency, wisdom, determination and valour permanently exist similar to the brilliance which exists with the Sun God." 30

"Not only that, in any mission where Angadha is the head, Jambhavan is the leader and Hanuman is there to decide what aspect has to be done by whom and when it is to be done, the result cannot be other than expected. So, Hey great hero, do not be immersed in sorrow." 31-32

(Please note that stanza 31 occurs in many places without much change.)

Then talking to each other as if they were proud of Hanuman's success and are coming to inform the success of their mission, the monkeys neared Kishkinda and the sound of their prattling (Kilu kila sound) was heard in the sky. 33

Hearing the sound of the monkeys that great monkey chieftain straightened his curved tail and became very happy. 34

Those monkeys who were desirous of seeing Rama arrived pushing Hanuman to their front. 35

Angadha and other warriors who were full of joy and had a smiling face got down near the monkey King and Raghava. 36

Then the great hero Hanuman saluted Raghava with a bent head and informed in short the news of the virtue of Sita being pure without even an iota of blemish. 37

Rama along with Lakshmana hearing the nectar like words, that "Sita has been found" from the mouth of Hanuman became very happy. 38

Because of that Sugreeva became very happy at the determined efficiency of Hanuman and Lakshmana examined him with love mingled with respect. 39

Then Raghava who was the killer of his enemies became happy and also saw him with respectful affection. 40

Thus ends the sixty fourth chapter of Sundara Kanda in the Ramayana which is the first epic written by Valmiki.