Tales in the Custody of Viswamitra - Part 4, River Ganga

 In the last post, we learnt about the ancestry and family of Viswamitra. This post will continue on the tales narrated by him enroute to Mithila, the kingdom of Janaka. From the banks of River Sona, the ascetics travelled further and reached the sacred river Ganga. Let us learn what the epic has to offer about this place from the words of Viswamitra.

They walked on and on, feasting their eyes on beautiful woods and forests through which they traversed. Many miles later, they came upon that great river Ganga, revered, and loved by the sages. The beauty of breathtaking bubbling flow was breath- taking, and enhanced by majestic swans and soaring cranes. The august assembly halted on the banks surveying the sylvan splendor with great delight. Bathing in the holy waters they lighted their sacrificial fires, offered oblations to the gods and the ancestors and later partook in the remains of the offerings.

At Rama's request Viswamitra told them as to how the river Ganga flows through the three worlds before merging with the ocean. " The lord of the Himalayas, a treasure trove of all precious metals, was blessed with two daughters of unsurpassed loveliness, named Ganga and Uma. Their mother Manorama was the daughter of mount Meru. For achieving the divine, the devas once wanted Ganga to accompany them with the consent of Himavat. The lord of the mountains yielded to the request for the benefit and welfare of the worlds. He knew that his daughter would travel only on the right path and purify the world. The devatas ever in the service of the world returned to their abode with Ganga following them. The other daughter of Himavat, a great ascetic, named Uma revered and worshiped by the worlds was given in marriage to Mahadeva, lord of Kailas.

Having heard the brief glorious history of Ganga, through Viswamitra, Rama and Lakshmana wished to know as to what had taken place in her hoary past, both in heaven as well as on the earth. Purifier of the world that she was, they wondered as to what made her flow in three different ways and by what merits she came to be known as Mother Ganga. "Many years ago," said Viswamitra, "the greatest of ascetics, Siva married Parvathi and they spent one hundred years blissfully reveling in each other. At the end of that period, Parvathi was yet to conceive a child. In the meanwhile Brahma and the gods were perplexed and worried as to who could bear the child born of this divine union. They then invoked lord Siva and pleaded with him to retain his energies of creation within his most magnificent self. Siva declared that he could have done so, but since the energy was already dislodged, he asked them "who would be capable of bearing it", and the devatas said that the earth would.

Thus counseled, Siva let his energies flow to the earth, which spread over forests and mountains, making them light up brilliantly. Fearing this great brilliance, the devatas implored the lord of fire, Agni along with Vayu, God of wind to pervade into the divine energy. The two gods heeding their pleas did so, turning the divine vital energy into the Sveta Mountain. On this grew a forest of white reeds, whose fiery brilliance was like that of the Sun. From this radiance was born the most glorious Karthikeya, whom the devas worshiped with great reverence, as they did also, lord Shiva and his consort Uma.

The daughter of the mountain king, Uma was furious at these happenings. Eyes red with anger she cursed them all, for preventing her from begetting a son. "Just as I am deprived, may you also be unable to father children. From now on your wives shall remain childless". She thundered. Nor did she spare, the earth, which she bitterly blamed and cursed "Evil one, my anger shall defile you. May you be manifold in form and wife to many masters. May you never experience a mother's love for her son". Beholding the shamed devatas, Siva started traveling towards the Himalayas. Reaching the northern slope and reaching a peak on that slope, he entered into a great penance along with Parvathi". Viswamitra concluding his narration asked Rama and Lakshmana to now listen to the origin of Ganga.

While lord Siva was immersed in his rigorous penance, the devatas led by Indra and Agni approached Brahma. Paying homage to the great one they said "At the beginning of creation you granted us the chief of armies, who is now engaged otherwise in deep penance along with Uma his consort". Brahma putting their fears to rest said, "The curse of Uma that you will not father any children is an inviolable truth, let there be no doubt about it. But there is Ganga flowing in the celestial regions. She will beget a son, fathered by the god of fire, Agni, and that son will lead your armies and destroy enemies. He will also become very dear to Uma". Relieved and grateful, the devatas bidding a reverential farewell to Brahma went on to mount Kailas to request Agni to grant a son to Ganga fathered by him. Agni met Ganga, who transformed herself into a divine human form. Where upon Agni pervaded her, releasing in her the creative energy. Ganga then spoke, saying that this great vitality in her was burning her, that it was unbearable and that she could no longer hold it. Agni told her to deposit it on the slopes of the Himalayas and Ganga expelled the tremendously radiant embryo from her body.

As the embryo was falling to earth, its luster was that of molten gold, from which derived gold and silver, along with metals like, copper, iron, tin and steel. The embryo placed on the mountain slopes emitted a wonderful light, engulfing the surroundings in a golden glow and in that brilliance materialized Kumara. The devatas led by Indra brought six nymphs to nurse the divine baby. As these Krittikas mothered and nursed the baby the gods declared the divine effulgence as Karthikeya who became famous in all the three worlds.

The Krittikas produced milk copiously to feed the child who was a manifestation of unsurpassed power and energy. He grew six heads and suckled milk with all his six mouths at once. A day's nourishment produced in him such indomitable power and energy, that he was able to vanquish hordes of demons. Though his body was still tender like that of a child, his vast in-born talents were awe-inspiring and the devatas appointed Karthikeya as chief of their armies.

This story of Ganga is auspicious and brings merit to those who worship Karthikeya. They will also enjoy a long life, blessed with sons and grandsons, and will live in the same world as that of Skanda in the life hereafter.

Viswamitra continued, saying, "Rama I will now narrate the story of an Ikshvaku ancestor. In the times past lived a virtuous king by name Sagara who was childless and whose yearning for them was intense. Kesini, the princess of Vidarbha known for righteousness was his first wife. Sagara's second wife was Arishtanemi's daughter Sumathi, whose beauty had no rival upon this earth.

One day Sagara accompanied by his two wives reached the Himalayan slopes and entered into a great penance. A hundred years passed thus. Bhrugu, pleased, came to Sagara and said, "my son, one of your wives shall give birth to one son, who will carry on your dynasty. The other will have sixty thousand sons of great valour and perseverance". Kesini and Sumati reverently asked the sage, "Brahmin which one will have the one son, and which one will give birth to many?" To that question, Bhrugu's answer was that they had the freedom to choose. Kesini then chose to have the one son, who would be the heir. Sumathi, sister of Garuda, chose to be mother to the sixty thousand sons of valor and fame. Content and joyous the king along with his wives paid grateful obeisance to the noble sage and went back to Ayodhya.

Seasons passed and the time came when Kesini gave birth to a son, who was named Asamanjasa. Sumathi gave birth to a gourd like fetus, which then split and out of it emerged the sixty thousand sons. The nurses kept them in jars of clarified butter who in the course of time grew into young adolescence and then reached resplendent, handsome manhood. Asamanjasa also grew but brought little joy to Sagara for the son of Kesini took to torturing children. He would seize them and hurl them into the waters of the Sarayu and watch gleefully as they struggled and drowned. Sagara banished him from Ayodhya. Asamanjasa's son Anshuman was valiant, courteous and loved by all. One day Sagara resolved to perform a yagna and gathering his priests and preceptors together, embarked on the rituals.

Rama was pleased with the story of his ancestor narrated by Viswamitra. The latter elaborated upon it, saying that the sacrifice took place between the two mighty mountain ranges of the Himalayas and the Vindyas, almost facing each other. This region was known to be the most sacred and appropriate for such religious rites. Anshuman mounted on a magnificent chariot, stood guard over the sacrificial horse with bow in hand. Even as Sagara the patron of the yaga was conducting the rituals, Indra in the form of a rakshasa swooped down and stole the horse. Alarmed, the preceptors pronounced that such an act would be a taint on the sacrifice. They urged Sagara to kill the thief and retrieve the horse, or it would bring disaster to all. Calling his sixty thousand sons together Sagara spoke to them. "I cannot see how the horse could be stolen from our midst. The yagna is being performed by the most venerable of priests, so I must remain here along with Anshuman. Do go, my sons and search league by league, the land girt by the oceans. Dig up the very earth, if need be, until such a time the horse is found". The army of Sagara's sons roamed the earth in earnest enthusiasm. They tore at the crust of the earth with nails, sharp and hard as jagged diamonds. They dug with fearsome spears, which went in and out like bolts of lightning, and they plowed deep inside, on every side, until the earth cried out in anguish.

There arose terrible cries from creatures tormented. The outcry of the nagas, asuras and rakshasa being killed was sheer agony. The sixty thousand separate individuals of tremendous valor and energy dug into the very core of the earth, excavating sixty thousand yojanas into the underworld of Rasatala. With the sound of spears, plows and the wailing of living beings tortured, the noise reached a crescendo. They even scooped out parts of Jambu Island filled with majestic mountains. Petrified and crestfallen, the devatas along with the uragas, asuras and gandharvas, invoked Brahma. They implored him to save them from the wrath of the sons of Sagara, saying that even great sages living in the lower world were being killed.

To those agitated and frightened devatas, Brahma said, "The entire earth belongs to Vasudeva who bears the earth in the form of a great sage by name Kapila. The sons of Sagara will burn in the fire of his anger. It is destined that the earth will be dug up and it is also destined that the sixty thousand sons of Sagara will perish". Their fears abated, the celestials reached their abodes, relieved and happy. Meanwhile as if boding ill a thunderous sound emanated from the earth which being systematically slit open by the princes. Having searched in vain, they approached Sagara saying that they had found neither the horse nor the horse thief. But outraged at their failure Sagara ordered them to resume the search and not come back until the horse was found.

Making haste the princes rushed back. Reaching Rasatala they bore deeper into the earth, where they came upon the Diggajas - Virupaksha, Bhadra, Mahapada and Saumanasa, the four elephants bearing the earth. Worshipping each one of them, they burrowed further down into the nether region, where they saw the eternal Vasudeva in the form of Kapila and not far away grazed the horse. Happy at having found the horse and angry with Vasudeva for having stolen it, they called him a thief. Kapila hearing them flew into a towering rage and emitted the single sound'Hmm'; and the sixty thousand mighty sons of Sagara were reduced to ashes. Such was the power of Kapila, beyond conception and comprehension.

This concludes the chapters 35, 36, 37, 38, 39 and 40 where we learn about the river Ganga, tales around it, king Sagara of Ikshvaku dynasty who is going to be related to the Ganga reaching Earth. It has to be noted that Viswamitra started narrated about origin of Ganga, tales around it once they reached the river and performed holy rituals in sacred river along with Rama. The narration about the holy river will continue in next post where we learn how the river was brought to Earth by Ikshvaku king Bhageeratha to purify the land, people it touches and bring them to heaven.

Tales in the Custody of Viswamitra - Part 3, Dynasty of Viswamitra

 In the last post, we learned the story behind Siddhashrama, Viswamitra performing his yagna in Siddhashrama, Rama and Lakshmana protecting the yagna and slaying Mareecha, Subahu and onset of the journey to Mithila. By now, the main reason for Rama accompanying Viswamitra has been met by standing to protect his yagna. Viswamitra takes an important role in the journey of Rama by giving out mantras, astras and narrating historic tales behind persons, places. In addition, he is also the originator in accompanying Rama to Mithila and marrying Sita, which we will see subsequently. As of now, they are enroute to that place and let us delve into what holds in between.

Visvamitra embarked on this journey followed by a hundred carts filled with vedic masters. Even birds and beasts of the sanctuary followed the sage until after a while they were asked to return. With the setting of the Sun the travelers camped on the banks of the river Sona. Once the Sun had set, they bathed in the river and made offerings into the fire. Rama and Lakshmana paying their obeisance to the sages, sat in front of Visvamithra and Rama eagerly asked "what region is this, so graced with lush groves?" and the noblest ascetic related the history of the land.

Visvamitra said "Kusa, born to Brahma was a great ascetic. Righteous and reverent towards men of virtue, bound by the rules of the Kshatriya race, this eminent person was married to the princess of Vidarbha, a noble and beautiful lady of whom were born four sons. They were Kusumba, Kusanabha, Adhurtrajasa and Vasu. Kusa was proud of his sons who were truthful, righteous and dynamic. They were men of honor, eager to rule in accordance with the Kshatriya dharma. One day Kusa told them, "you too must rule kingdoms as that is the only way to discharge and fulfill your dharmic duties" and so it came to pass that the three princes esteemed and venerated by the people of the land brought into being three capital cities. Kusumba founded the city of Kausambi, Kusanabha the city of Mahodaya, King Adhurtarajasa created Dharmaranya and Vasu built the city of Girivraja. Rama, this land belongs to that great king Vasu and is known as Vasumathi. Five majestic mountains surround in which flows the river Sona born in Maghada. This beautiful river meanders in the mountains like a garland. It flows east to west through rich farmland turning the land into golden rows of green fields.

To Kusanabha, the royal seer and his queen Ghritachi, were born, one hundred worthy daughters who were like streaks of lightening in a thunderstorm and like stars among the clouds. They sparkled, danced and sang with great joy and greater abandon. One day Vayu, the wind god chanced upon them. Charmed by their beauty he said "I desire all of you to be my wives. Forget the world of mortals and attain immortality. Youth is momentary and more so is humans, marry me and be ever youthful and become devatas".

In tones of disdain the young girls answered "O! Vayu, supreme among gods, you pervade all life and we are aware of your powers. Why do you disgrace us, so? We are the daughters of Kusanabha and he is our master. A god you may be, but we can topple you from your lofty heights. Do not dishonor our father, he may prove to be your death. It is our duty and dharma to marry those chosen by him". Vayu's rage knew no bounds upon hearing these words. He pervaded into their bodies twisting, disfiguring their limbs, and turning them into ugly hunchbacks. Eyes streaming with tears, and shamed, the damsels in distress, reached the palace, where weeping they fell to the ground. Kusanabha, heartbroken at the sight of his wailing daughters cried out, "Who did this to you? It is a blemish on the very dharma".

Continuing with the narration Visvamitra said "The one hundred maidens paid homage to their father, by touching his feet with their heads and said, "The one that travels the world over, Vayu, god of wind, unmindful of dharma, resorting to evil and sinful ways, tried to threaten us. We said that duty bound to you, we were not free to honor his wish of marrying us and that he should ask, for your consent. Heedless of our words, he subjected us to this appalling persecution".

Kusanabha having listened to his daughters said, "My daughters! The restraint shown by people of tremendous patience is of great importance. It makes me proud that you displayed such virtue. Your unanimous opinion and decision have saved the honor of our dynasty. Forbearance whether in man or woman is a jewel and an adornment. Possessing the quality of forgiveness is in itself a rarity, but trying to bestow it on the devatas, with their immense wealth, beauty and prosperity is not an easy task. Your tolerance, in the face of such an intimidating situation is truly laudable. Patience is charity, patience is virtue, patience is truth, patience is fame, and patience is dharma. The world is founded on patience."

Consoling his daughters thus, king Kusanabha sought the advice of his ministers about the marriage of his daughters. They told him of a Maharshi by name Chuli who was at one time immersed in great penance. Serving and looking after his needs was a gandharva lady, by name Somada, daughter of Urmila. Pleased with her ministrations, he said, "Bless you! What wish of yours, may I grant?" speaking with utmost grace, in a melodiously soft voice, she said, "You are endowed with the splendor of Brahma and are capable of great penance. I want to beget a son by you who will be, full of ascetic power and glory". Invoking the power of his penance, through the will of his mind, Chuli, gifted Somada, a son known as Brahmadatta who now lives in the city of Kampilya.

King Kusanabha made up his mind to give his daughters in marriage to Brahmadatta. During the wedding rituals Brahmadatta ceremoniously received each one of the princesses, by taking their hand. The very touch of his hand transformed the maidens; their disfigurement and anguish vanished as they regained their radiance and beauty once again. Delighted Kusanabha, with all due honors sent Brahmadatta on his journey back to his kingdom with his wives. Somada proud of her son and his beautiful wives commended her son on his choice.

Visvamitra said that after Brahmadatta returned to his kingdom Kusanabha performed Putreshti to beget a son. While doing so, Kusa the son of Brahma told him that he would beget a son named Gadhi through whom you would gain everlasting fame on earth". Time passed on and a few seasons later, as predicted by Kusa, the birth of Gadhi took place. "That most righteous of persons Gadhi, was my father and born of the Kusa dynasty I am also known as Kausika" said Visvamithra. Satyavati, my sister true to her name, was an upholder of dharma and ever diligent in performing austerities was given in marriage to Ruchika. A devout wife who constantly and reverently served her husband, she reached heaven along with Ruchika, with her mortal body. For the benefit of mankind, for their pleasure and prosperity, making the Himalayas her abode, she descends as the divine and beautiful river Kausiki".

Visvamitra further told Rama that he lived in the vicinity of those mighty mountain ranges for the love of his sister alone and if it were not for the yagna he would not have parted with her to go to Siddhashrama, where with Rama's indomitable courage and power he had fulfilled his desire. The sage ending his narration urged everyone to rest, so that the journey ahead should not be hindered for lack of sleep.

The sages heard Visvamitra and lauded the Kausika dynasty. Commending all those born of that race as men of great honor they said that the most glorious of them all was Visvamitra, whom they compared to Brahma, the god of creation. There after Visvamitra retired for the night as did Rama, Lakshmana and the others.

As the night gave way to a bright dawn, Visvamitra who had spent the night, on the banks of the river Sona, said, "Rama! Arise, the day has dawned, perform the morning rituals and we shall set out". The entourage of sages and princes led by Visvamitra forded the river path. They walked on and on, feasting their eyes on beautiful woods and forests through which they traversed.

This concludes the chapters 32, 33, 34 and a part of 35 where we learned about the ancestry, sister of Viswamitra. The journey continues further and reaches the sacred river Ganga, the tales on which we will learn in next post.

Tales in Custody of Viswamitra - Part 2, Siddhasrama, Slaying of Maricha & Subahu

 This historic epic is full of details, developments, and surrounding stories. While I am covering quite a few chapters in a single post, even this will be a lengthy exercise to complete the epic in true sense. To continue the flow in short regular intervals, it would be good to post every week and hopefully I can replicate the entire epic from existing sources that way. The good work which has been started, needs to be progressed and completed. I hope this exercise will also be progressed without impediments and continues to shed light on the delightful story of the journey of Rama.

While the initial intention was to pick the important gist and educate one and all, it has taken the turn of writing summaries of each chapter. There are around 500 chapters and it would take at least 200 posts from me to summarize it all. This is my 10th post and I would like to increase the frequency to give a fair chance of succeeding in this attempt. Even a weekly post will take more than 3 years. Let us reduce from bi-weekly to weekly and see if it further needs to be posted more frequently. This is my humble projection of this divine exercise and hopefully, the historic epic is conveyed in its entirety.

As I said, everyone knows the simple story of Rama, but this detailed presentation of mere summary is a learning experience for me. I would read, learn, and present it here which is an enlightening, enriching and enchanting experience in itself. Rama is a noble and ideal among men whose personality is a delight to think about, read about and learn about. This weekly remembrance will bring along the mesmerizing tales around his journey. With that, let us get along from where it is left in last post.

The tales under the guardianship of Viswamitra continues for a while and let us look at them. Sage Viswamitra had given Sri Rama all the weapons or ‘astras’ he had acquired through his penance. He had taught him how to use them, control and recall them. Sri Rama in turn taught them to Lakshmana.

Continuing their journey, Rama saw a big hill with a huge forest in the valley where there were many animals and birds that made the place a visual sight. Inspired by the sight, Rama asked Viswamitra, “Is this, the place, where you do your ‘Yagas’? And where are the demons that I have to deal with to protect your sacred ventures?”

Viswamitra began to describe the place. “Yes, Rama, this is the place where I stay for doing my ‘Yagas’; this holy place is called ‘Siddhasrama’.

“Why is it so called?” asked Rama.

Viswamitra narrates the underlying stories of places and people to Rama, Lakshmana along the time. In this turn, the tale behind the Siddhasrama is put forth by kausika. In this place the great Lord Vishnu performed ‘tapas’ for hundreds of many revolutions of the four ‘yugas’. The Lord was born here as ‘Vamana’, the divine dwarf. This holy place fulfilled the purpose of the ‘Devas’ to regain their lost glory and the heaven. The story happened in the ‘Treta’ Yuga, and is referred to in the ‘Rik-Veda’ as “the three steps of Lord Vishnu, the un-conquerable preserver, who strode over this Universe, and in three places planted his steps”.

Mahabali, an Asura ruler, son of Virochana and grandson of Prahlada, by his good deeds defeated Indra and the Devas and ruled over the three worlds. The Devas appealed to Lord Vishnu, who was doing ‘Tapas’ in this Asrama, to recover their ‘Paradise lost’ along with their original glory. The Gods headed by Agni Deva spoke to Vishnu: “Bali, the son of Virochana has commenced a great sacrifice. Let our objective to recover our lost worlds, be fully accomplished, while he has not yet concluded his sacred observances. You can take the form of a dwarf, ‘Vamana’ and achieve the purpose of the Gods.”

Lord Vishnu incarnated as ‘Vamana’, a dwarf, as the son of Sage Kasyapa and Aditi on the twelfth day of ‘Suklapaksha’ of the month of Bhadrapada, with star ‘Sravana’ in the auspicious ‘Abhijit muhoorta’ at the place of Siddhasrama.

After the due performance of the ‘Upanayanam’ ceremony of the Brahmachari, consecrated by Kasyapa and others, and wearing ‘meghala’ (girdle of Kusa grass), holding a ‘danda’ (staff), an umbrella made of Palmyra leaves, Kamandalu and a rosary, the Lord as Vamana walked to the northern bank of River Narmada, where Emperor Mahabali was performing an Aswamedha sacrifice. The brilliance of Vamana attracted the respect and admiration of Sukracharya and the priests who gave him a grand welcome. Mahabali was overwhelmed with great devotion and the ‘tejas’ (luster) of the Brahmin boy and washed his feet with horripilations (a bristling of the hair on the skin due to ecstasy/ goose-bumps/goose-flesh) all over his body. He sprinkled that water that washed the Lord’s feet on his head and felt fulfilled.

Mahabali was determined to make this Brahmin boy happy and asked him, “What can I do for you? O the Holy One! Kindly mention any thing you like –wealth, food, house or earth –whatever you ask for, I promise you.”

Vamana after praising Mahabali, his dynasty and his generosity, demanded “three paces of earth as measured by his foot.” Mahabali laughed loudly and said, “You talk like a silly boy. I am the Lord of all the three worlds, and can give you anything. Ask something big that will match with my power and glory.” The humble Vamana replied, “If one is not satisfied with three feet of earth, he will never be satisfied even with the three worlds.”

The boastful King was humbled and agreed to give what he begged for. At this stage Sukracharya, the Asura-Guru got suspicious and intervened.

Sukracharya, the Preceptor of the Asuras, got suspicious of the demand of Vamana. He told Mahabali in private: “This Vamana is Lord Vishnu himself in disguise. Don’t get cheated by him”

Mahabali thought about it. “If Lord Vishnu Himself has come to me begging, I consider myself fortunate. There is a greater sense of fulfillment in my generosity. I will certainly fulfill my promise and his wishes.” Hearing this reply, Sukracharya became angry and cursed Mahabali for not heeding his advice. But Mahabali was firm in his resolve and gave the promise of three paces of earth as paced by him.

After the formal grant of the promise, Vamana slowly grew up in size and stature, as everyone was watching in amazement. He grew up to the size that touched the Brahmaloka. The Lord measured the Earth and the Heavens with two strides.

Mahabali could not fulfill his promise. Vamana had measured only two paces by his two strides. “Where is the place for me for my third pace, you had promised? Mahabali, however, without any fear, agitation or hesitation, bent down his head and said, “Place your foot on my head for the third pace I had promised.” The Lord placed his foot on the head of Mahabali, and said: “Whatever I have done is only to remove your ego, ‘Ahankara’, even in the matter of your generosity.” Vishnu then returned all the three worlds into Indra's care.

Concluding the unique story about ‘Siddhasrama’, Sage Viswamitra told Sri Rama: In this hermitage which removes the fatigue of worldly life which had once belonged to Vamana I now reside by virtue of my immense devotion and reverence to him. The wicked demons are even now advancing towards the hermitage to hinder and obstruct my yagna. You have to slay these mean rakshasas right here and now, let us go now to that sacred hermitage, which is as much yours, as it is mine.

Upon entering the hermitage, they were greeted by those dwelling in the hermitage. Rushing out to worship Visvamitra, Rama and Lakshmana, they said- with reverence "May glory be yours, Kausika. Begin your austerities this very day. May this Siddhashrama, prosper by the powers of your yagna and gain great fame".

Assured by Rama and Lakshmana, sage Visvamitra commenced preparations for the yagna, with a serene mind.

The valiant princes Rama and Lakshmana now stood ready to avert the marauding demons from disrupting the sacrifice. Pleased at their eagerness to repel the rakshasas, the sages commended the royal brothers and told them that Visvamitra would remain in silence until the conclusion of the yagna and that they were to stand guard for six nights.

Bowing to the ascetics, the famed Ikshvaku princes watched over the hermitage for six days and nights forgoing sleep to protect Visvamitra. On the sixth day Rama warned Lakshmana to be on guard and doubly vigilant and waited impatiently to combat the demons. Just then the sacrificial fires tended by Visvamitra and other sages suddenly leaped into a great blaze enhancing the radiance of the altar adorned by the greatest of sages Kausika. Ritual articles like the Kusa grass, ladles, vessels and flowers, showed up starkly in the brightness of those flames. Suddenly a loud noise, frightening and thunderous was heard. And out of the blue sky, came Maricha and Subahu. Threatening as rain clouds they came with their dreaded followers who poured down torrents of blood. Furious at the desecration of the holy altar, Rama rushed forward and seeing the demons hurling towards him called out to Lakshmana, "Watch, as I scatter these evil, flesh eating rakshasas, like windblown clouds, with the weapon, Manava". That weapon hurled Maricha into the ocean flood, a hundred yojanas away where he lay crushed and unconscious. Rama then told Lakshmana, that though stunned Maricha was not dead but he would kill all the other blood-thirsty rakshasas who destroyed holy yagnas."

Rama took up the immensely powerful Agneya astra and shot at Subahu who pierced to the heart fell to earth, dead. The remaining demons fell prey to the power of Vayavya astra. Having slain those evil doers thwarting yagnas and yagas, Rama received worshipful tribute from the seers, like Indra on the occasion of his victory over rakshasas. Visvamitra lauded Rama beholding the four directions cleared and cleansed of all evil. He said "I have achieved my purpose and you have honored your father's word. With victory over the rakshasas the name of this sanctuary, as Siddhashrama has been justified". This place once was cleansed of Bali by Vamana and now by Rama.

Having achieved Visvamitra's mission, Rama and Lakshmana were happy and content. At dawn the next day they made their way into the august presence of the sage, bowed to him saying that they were at his command. Visvamitra said "Rama. The lord of Mithila, Janaka, is about to perform a noble yagna, the highest expression of dharma. We are leaving for Mithila and want you to accompany us. There you will see that wonderful bow of Siva whose brilliance is dazzling and whose power is immeasurable. The gods, gandharvas, asuras and rakshasas have failed to string it as have great kings and mighty warriors born in the Kshatriya race.As the fruit of the yagna performed by him Devaratha an ancestor of Janaka had received it from the Devatas. In the palace of Janaka, during the worship of the weapons, this bow festooned with flowers and smeared with the fragrant pastes of sandal and Agaru takes precedence". Consenting to their wish Visvamitra said that he too would journey with them. "Fulfilled and enlightened, I am journeying north from Siddhashrama towards the Himalayas which stand on the northern banks of the river Ganga". Bidding farewell and went round the hermitage reverently, Visvamitra embarked on this journey followed by a hundred carts filled with vedic masters. Even birds and beasts of the sanctuary followed the sage until after a while they were asked to return.With the setting of the Sun the travelers camped on the banks of the river Sona.

This concludes the chapters 28, 29, 30 and 31 of Balakanda. Here we learned the story behind Siddhashrama – the place where Viswamitra performed his yagna, the protection of it by Rama, Lakshmana and slaying of Maricha and Subahu, onset of journey to the land Mithila. The mission behind Viswamitra bringing along Rama, Lakshmana is accomplished, and another larger event is about to commence. There are many tales in between and let us learn of them in successive posts.

Tales In the Custody of Visvamitra - Part 1 - Journey, Slaying of Tataka, Gift of Weapons

           We had seen the introduction of Sage Visvamitra into the journey of Rama - his arrival into Ayodhya, deliberations with King Dasaratha, accompanying Rama and Lakshmana to ward off evil forces obstructing his oblations. The brothers Rama and Lakshmana who are in the comforts of the home till the time, gets along with Visvamitra into the outer world for the first time. The Sage is more than the required master to teach the princess about everything to prepare for what is plying out in their future. Having initially armed them with the mantras to protect them in this journey and after, he already had the impression of a Guru upon them. Let us continue to look at the patronage of the Sage and further story.

               With Visvamitra's caring ministrations, Rama and Lakshamana spent a comfortable night sleeping in the open on a bed of grass, on the banks of Sarayu. It was the most glorious of time, at dawn before the Sun rose in the sky. There was a gentle breeze, and the air was cool and comfortable for the late-risers to cover themselves more tightly in their happy slumber, especially at the fag-end of their sleep. Sage Viswamitra and the two princes, Sri Rama and Lakshmana, who were never used to sleep on river banks in the open, were still sleeping after keeping awake for quite a long time in the night, hearing many stories from the glorious Sage. On getting up from the bed of ‘Darbha Grass’, Sage Visvamitra looked at Rama and Lakshmana affectionately, and woke up Rama with these endearing words:

“Kousalya supraja Rama, Poorva sandhya pravartate.

Uthishta Narasardoola, karthavyam Deivamahnikam.”

            "O the worthy son of Kousalya, the Dawn ‘sandhya’ (twilight) time is on. Therefore, get up, O tiger among men! You have to do your morning worship.” This particular verse has now become famous among the devotees, as it has been incorporated as the very first verse of ‘Sree Venkatesa Suprabhatam’ and chanted in many households and temples in the early hours of the mornings. Hearing the exceedingly mild admonition of the renowned Sage, Rama and Lakshmana performed their ablutions at the confluence of River Sarayu and the Ganga. After giving oblations of water to the Sun-God, they chanted mentally the most sacred text, the ‘Gayatri,’ that being the highest of all ‘Japas.’

                They continued the journey and soon arrived at the confluence of the holy rivers Sarayu and Ganga, which then divided into three paths. Here they came upon the sacred hermitage of Anchorites, who had after observing the most awesome of austerities for many thousands of years had become the supreme possessors of vital powers. They were curious to know about the holy site of hermitages of ‘Rishis’ of purified mind, that had been practicing the highest form of asceticism for the past many thousands of years. Rama addressed Viswamitra, “Whose holy hermitage is this? Who lives there now?” Sage Viswamitra replied: “This is the famous ‘Kaamasrama’. This is the place where Lord Siva was doing long austerities. The Devas were very worried about it because they wanted Siva to marry Parvati, the daughter of Himavan; Parvaty was also doing penance separately for getting Siva as her husband. The Devas wanted Siva to marry soon, because an Asura (demon) named Tharaka was harassing them, and he could be killed only by a son born to Siva. Due to his anxiety to get Siva marry and beget a son, Lord Indra sent Kaama Deva, the God of Love (equal to Eros, Cupid, Manmatha) to disturb the penance of Siva to facilitate his marriage with Parvati and get a son to kill Tharakasura. The God of Love, armed with a bow of sugarcane, with a bowstring of bees in line, and with arrows tipped with distinct flowers, created a spring season in this hermitage. Disturbed by Kaamadeva, Lord Siva became angry and opened his third eye, and burnt the body of Kaamadeva and made him ‘Ananga’ (without body).This is the place where Kaamadeva was burnt, and so it is known as Kaamasrama. [This place that burnt the body (‘Anga’) of Kaamadeva later on, came to be known as ‘Anga’desa.]

              While Visvamitra was conversing with Rama and Lakshmana the holy men of that hallowed sanctuary sensed their presence. With their all-pervading spiritual vision reaching beyond the veil of time, they recognized their noble guests. Immensely pleased, they respectfully offered them water to wash their feet. Hospitality was extended first to Visvamitra and thereafter to Rama and Lakshamana whose grace and reverence pleased the noble souls. At dusk, the hermitage reverberated with Vedic chants. In that famed hermitage, where Kama was destroyed, the three travelers spent the night while Visvamitra regaled the princes with enchanting tales.

              At daybreak having performed the morning rituals Rama and Lakshmana arrived on the banks of Ganga preceded by Visvamithra. The noble hermits of the Kama hermitage procured a boat for their honored guests, wished them a safe journey, and bade them farewell with their blessings. Paying respectful homage to the pious hosts Visvamitra along with the young Ikshvakus crossed the gushing Ganga. As the boat reached mid-stream, Rama and Lakshmana heard a deafening noise and when Rama asked Visvamitra about it, he said, "In the mind of Brahma was born a vision, which manifested itself on mount Kailas as a lake. It was conceived in the intellect of Brahma it came to be known as Manasa sarovar. The river Sarayu flows from Manasa and the great noise that you hear emanates from the turbulence of its waters. The roar of the bounding flow reaches a crescendo when its waters clash with those of the Ganga, at the confluence of the two mighty rivers. Do pay homage to these two holy rivers". Rama and Lakshmana did so and then reached the southern bank of the river. Marching forward at a brisk pace they soon came upon the most fearsome of forests. Trackless and dense it showed no signs of any human having ever ventured into it. Filled with beasts and birds of prey swarming with insects shrill with the incessant call of crickets and the shrieking of vultures, the forest was a cacophony of multitude sounds. The wooded canopy thick and dark was made up of Bilva, Asvakarna, Kabuka, Tinduka and Patella under which lions, tigers, boars and elephants roamed.

              "What forbidding forest is this?" Asked Rama and Visvamitra said, "Long ago this land flourished as Malada and Karasu. Abounding in wealth and grain it was built by divine beings. At that period of time Indra killed Vritrasura. Doomed and overpowered by the sin of slaying a Brahmin, Indra was cursed with impurity and endless hunger. Taking pity on his plight, the devas aided by the spiritual and ascetic powers of heavenly sages cleansed him of that transgression. The impurity and taint shed by Indra was deposited at this spot. Purified and freed of his monstrous hunger Indra bestowed a wonderful boon on the land for having absorbed his taint to absolve him of his sin. By the power of the boon Malada and Karusa became flourishing cities of great renown. As the years went, they became increasingly prosperous. Blessed with riches and plentiful grain, there was no dearth of anything in the land. Several years later a yakshni called Tataka arrived upon that affluence in the form of fear and destruction. With the strength of a thousand elephants and capable of taking any form at will the ignoble Tataka was the wife of an intelligent yaksha by name Sunda. Her son Maricha was gigantic, and his powers matched to those of Indra. The wicked mother and the son struck terror and wrought havoc on Malada and Karusa. It is here that the yakshini dwells, infesting the forest and obstructing free passage. None can traverse it as she hungers for human flesh. Repulsive, unconquerable, and revolting of form, she strikes fear in the hearts of all living beings and also reigns supreme rendering in this region devoid of all human life. O! Rama, slay Tataka with the might of your arms and rid the forest of her diabolic presence. Freed of evil, the land will once again become habitable".

               Rama having heard Visvamitra asked him another question,"The yakshas are said to be gracious and mild. How did this yaksha woman come to possess the might of a thousand elephants?" The sage said, "Tataka by virtue of a boon acquired phenomenal strength. In the days gone by, there lived a powerful and famed yaksha, by name Suketu who performed great austerities for begetting a son. Prajapati did not grant Sukethu a son but gave him a daughter upon whom he also bestowed the strength of a thousand elephants. Born by the boon of the Lord Creator, Tataka grew to be ravishingly beautiful and was given in marriage to Sunda, son of Jharjha.

                To this charming couple was born a son strong and invincible. Though born of yaksha parentage, he was cursed to become a rakshasa. Later when Agastya killed Sunda. Enraged, Tataka went on a rampage and she along with her son Maricha rushed forth with the intent ofon devouring the sage. Agastya the most powerful of ascetics cursed Maricha and denounced Tataka saying, "From now on you will take the hideous form of a rakshasa woman and losing all beauty, will live on human flesh". Provoked and fuming Tataka exploded into a violent senseless anger. Wrecking vengeance on the sacred land hitherto tread upon and sanctified by the holy feet of Agastya, she rendered it unfit and unworthy of all human habitation. "Rama, you alone can end Tataka's reign of terror. Diabolic of nature, maligned by the curse she is a threat to this very earth.Kill her for the welfare of the Brahmins and the cows. You need not show her either pity or compassion that is usually shown to a woman. It is the duty of a king, to do so in the interest and safety of his subjects. To this end you should not differentiate between man and woman. To protect his people the king should discharge his duty towards an act whether it is cruel or compassionate, sinful or honorable. It is an eternal law which binds those in power, appointed to bear the burden of the kingdom. Rama! Slay her for she does not abide by dharma. Destroy her like Indra destroyed Manthara, the daughter of Virochana, who wanted to annihilate the earth. Many divine persons and eminent men of great honor and valor have slain unrighteous women for the sake of dharma".

                Rama bowing to Visvamitra with great reverence said, "In Ayodhya, my father Dasaratha commanded me in the presence of the eminent to carry out every wish of yours, without hesitation. Out of respect for his father's words and your wishes I will execute that act of dharma, for the welfare of not only the cows and Brahmins, but also for the prosperity of the country. I stand ready to do as you bid and take upon myself the task of eliminating the menace of Tataka". Rama then held his bow and twanged at the string, sending out a fearful sound, which reverberated in all the four directions even as the dwellers of forest trembled with fear. Tataka unaware and confused at what could have caused the thunderous sound ran out in a great fury.

               Wrathful and ugly, Tataka came bounding striking terror into the hearts of the not so brave. Seeing her, Rama said to Lakshmana, "She looks invincible, and she possesses magical powers. I am going to disfigure her by cutting her nose and ears for I am averse to killing a woman. I will also deprive her of her strength and her power of motion by doing away with her limbs. The infuriated monster charged forward generating a fierce dust storm which dismayed Rama and Lakshmana for a moment. Tataka then rained on the Ikshvaku princes who in anger retaliated that rain of rocks with a rain of arrows and cut off the hands of the demon as she was advancing. Deprived of her limbs, worn out, roaring with anger and writhing in pain, Tataka then lost her ears and nose to the wrath of Lakshamana. Then using her magical powers, she vanished from sight but did not stop from sending another torrent of rocks as a parting shot. Seeing Rama and Lakshmana hit by the rocks Visvamitra spoke up, "She does not deserve any more mercy. This yakshini who is sinful and wicked deserves death. She will regain her strength soon, so slay her before dusk, for after the Sun sets the rakshasas become invincible". Rama marching forward detracted the raining rocks with his arrows, which were capable of detecting and traveling in the direction of sound.

              Frustrated that her being invisible proved futile, Tataka hurled herself at Rama, who swift as lightening shot her in the chest with an arrow and she fell lifeless. Seeing the mountainous heap of matter, as frightening in death as in life, the lord of the gods and the gods themselves honored Rama and commended his valor. Indra blessed Visvamitra with prosperity and fame for having gratified the devas by encouraging Rama to annihilate the fearful yakshini. He also wanted Visvamitra to reward Rama with the astras of Bhrisasvas the two weapons endowed with ascetic power and energy. "Rama alone is worthy of them. He alone can use them to ward off many such evils to come and protect the celestials", said Indra. Devatas and siddhas praised Rama for killing Tataka. Liberated from the curse of Tataka and her dreaded presence the forest regained its radiant charm and came to be as splendid as that of Kubera's Chitraratha. Visvamitra happy at the death of Tataka, fondly kissed Rama on the forehead saying that they should all rest for the night and journey on to his hermitage on the morrow. Rama retired for the night and woke up at dawn to the call of Visvamitra.

                At daybreak, smiling with affection Visvamitra said "Rama, I am pleased and proud of the good you have done to this earth by slaying Tataka. Fulfilled and happy, I bequeath the wealth of weapons to you with love. With these you will be victorious not only against devas and rakshasas, but also against the gandharvas, nagas, uragas and all others, of whom you will be the master." Starting with the celestial Danda, Dharma, Kala and, Visnu chakras the Vajra astras, the prestigious spear of Siva, Brahmashivaastra, the Aishikaastra and the mightiest of all, the Brahmastra; the two brilliant maces, Modaki and Shikari along with Dharmapasa and Kalapasa shall be yours. The sage gave away these and many mightier and more exalted astras. Visvamitra having purified himself stood facing east, while he conferred the astras on Rama. He taught Rama the complete acquisition and the incantations to evoke those weapons, difficult to attain even by the celestials. Evoked by Visvamitra, the presiding deities of the weapons manifested themselves into Rama's presence saying, "We are your servants ". Receiving the astras, Rama touched the astra devatas with his hand, as a token of acceptance and wished them to come, whenever he invoked them. Pleased and fulfilled he paid respectful homage to the noble sage Visvamitra.

                This concludes the chapters 23,24,25,26 and 27 of Balakanda. Here, we learnt about the famous verse which finds itself in Suprabhatam, Kamasrama, Story of Tataka, Rama slaying Tataka and an army of weapons given to Rama. We had seen for the first time how a young Rama slayed an evil woman and purified the place. This becomes the starting point for his many a future slayings with the aid of ascetic powers conferred upon him and the weapons in his possession gifted by many seers. Let us see the further tales under the custody of Sage Visvamitra in the future posts.

Rama in His Early Days and Arrival of Sage Visvamitra

              We came to know the tale behind the moment Rama was born as the eldest son of Dasaratha to continue his dynasty and rid the world of the evil Ravana. The birth of a supreme personality needs some reason and backdrop to herald their being in all glory in the world. Whenever evil spirits rise in the world, a Rama will be born to subdue them – this is one lesson to remember and strongly believe. The evil spirits are within all of us and they ruling the roost requires a good, virtuous force to nullify them. The birth of Rama is the beginning of a new dawn to herald a supreme reign and annihilation of evil in the world. While we continue to reminisce Rama through this delightful story, let us hope the evils within us are conquered. Let us spread the goodness and virtues laid out by the Lord in any little way possible and pledge to defeat evil – both outward and inward. That will herald His rule and presence in the world. There is little doubt that as we are studying Ramayana, the ‘ism’ of Rama has already started to spread amongst us. With that, let us continue to look at the detailed account and usher the aura of Rama.

            This follows the naming ceremony of the four princes after their birth. Like the Moon, Rama was the darling of all, including the King. The princes were trained in the Vedas, Vedangas, Dhanurveda, and art of using all weapons of warfare. The princes respected the elders and were very righteous and truthful. Lakshmana, who loved Rama more than his own life followed him like his own shadow. Rama too reciprocated his brother's love. He could neither eat nor sleep without Lakshmana, who followed his brother with a ready bow and arrow to ward off any danger that might ensue. Bharata and Satrughna also had a strong bond between them; Though Dasaratha took great pride in them, the princes never took advantage of his affection, but were ever humble. They were always ready to serve him with love and reverence.

            King Dasaratha was extremely delighted with his growing sons, when they got enriched with wisdom and adorned with virtues, as they grew up with all branches of knowledge. They were modest, glorious, knowledgeable and far-sighted. They were attached to Vedic studies, and devoted to the service of their parents, and were equally well-versed in the science of archery. As their studies were nearing completion, King Dasaratha discussed with his family priests and relations about the marriage of his sons.

             At the same time, Sage Viswamitra arrived at his palace and spoke to the gate-keepers: “Speak to the King about me, the sage Viswamitra, belonging to the Kusa line, the son of Gadhi, having arrived at the palace.”The King suddenly sprang up from his throne and went to receive the awe-inspiring Sage, noted for his terrible ‘tapas’ and great spiritual powers. The Sage was received with the customary rituals of ‘paadya’ and ‘arghya’. The Sage also talked to Vasishta and other ‘Rishis’. Thereafter he was invited to the royal durbar, with great humility and reverence. King Dasaratha considered himself very blessed to have Viswamitra with him at a time when he was at the peak of his measure of happiness.  He spoke: “I consider your advent like ‘Amruta’ (nectar) in one’s hands, like rainfall in a waterless area, as the actual birth of a son to one pining for a child, or the recovery of a treasury irretrievably lost, or joy preceding a festive occasion. O Sage! Your austerities have raised your status from a Rajarishi to a Brahmarishi. I am at your humble service. Kindly instruct me what I have to do for you. I shall fully accomplish the object of your visit, for you are very much a God for me.”

             Sage Viswamitra was pleased to know that the King had already granted his wish even before he had asked for it. He said, “What you have said is worthy of you alone and none else on earth. This speaks highly about the glory of your dynasty of kings, as well as the impact of a great sage like Vasishta as your family preceptor.” He then described the purpose of his visit. “Engaged in performing certain rituals I am facing great hindrances, from the rakshasas or devils Maricha and Subahu who have been raining flesh and blood on the sacrificial altar. These demons whose magical powers allow them to take any form at will, disrupt my efforts at all times and I have come away in despair. I cannot unleash my wrath upon them either, for the ritual is such that it forbids my uttering of curses while it is being conducted. So I ask you, give me Rama, your first born who knows no fear. He alone with his divine radiance is capable of slaying the rakshasas and I shall spread his fame in all the three worlds. Maricha and Subahu are of no match for Rama. They can never face him. Deem them dead already. I know of Rama's boundless courage and might which broods no retaliation .The most powerful Vasishta knows and so do the other sages. If your dharma and your fame are to remain forever on this earth, give me Rama! If Vasishta and your ministers allow it, send Rama with me, for ten nights. Let not the auspicious time set for my ritual slip away and do not sorrow." Visvamitra having said what he had to, fell silent and the doting father Dasaratha shattered and frightened sat on his throne, trembling with fear.

              Emerging from his daze Dasaratha said,"Rama is not even sixteen years of age. Is it possible for him to war with the rakshasas? I have an entire Akshauhini of which I am the lord and master. I shall go to war with those armies for they and not Rama can vanquish the enemy. With bow in hand so long as there is life in me I shall protect the yagna and fight Maricha and Subahu. Rama is but a mere boy of sixteen years inexperienced in war and in the wielding of weapons. He is no match for the rakshasas who are notorious for their treachery. Separated from Rama I cannot live! Born to me after sixty thousand years he is my greatest delight, so do spare him" Dasaratha then wanted to know more about the rakshasas,"What are their powers? Who are they and whose sons are they? What kind of bodies do they have and how does one counter their treachery? Neither Rama nor I can match their magical powers, nor ward off their evil because these creatures are justly proud of being invincible. Great Brahmin! How can Rama oppose these deceitful demons?" And Visvamitra said, "Born of the Paulastya dynasty, a rakshasa by name Ravana armed with a boon from Brahma, has been tormenting the three worlds. Strong and mighty he always has bands of his fellow beings with him. He is the brother of Kubera and son of Visravas. Though Ravana is not obstructing my sacrifices, Maricha and Subahu do so at his behest." Having heard Visvamitra, Dasaratha said, "I have not the strength to confront Ravana. Visvamitra. You are my guru and my god. Be gracious when even the devas, danavas, yakshas or Pannagas can not face Ravana, how can men bear him? And how can Rama, a little boy who has not even heard of wars do so. How can I send my son to fight those monsters that seem to be the very incarnations of death?" When Visvamitra heard Dasaratha's questions, he exploded into a terrible rage, blazing like the flames of a sacrificial fire fed by oblations.

             Infuriated with Dasaratha's words, Visvamitra said, "It is unworthy of you born of the race of Ikshvaku to go back on a promise. If you think that proper, I shall go away just as I had come and may you and your kin live happily." The earth shuddered at Visvamitra's anger and the devatas grew fearful. Vasishta, worshipful, wise, and courageous perceived trouble and reasoned with Dasaratha, "Lord, it does not befit you an Ikshvaku, reputed as the most righteous in the three worlds to abandon that very dharma to tread the path of adharma. Unjust and unworthy is this breach of promise which will augur nothing but ill will. Skilled or unskilled in weaponry Rama protected by Kausika will be inviolable to the rakshasas.

             If dharma took a form, it would be known as Visvamitra. This great sage whose might, valor and wisdom have no comparison has knowledge of every weapon that exists in the three worlds. Supreme source of ascetic power, he has the skill to wield every one of them, which other men have neither seen nor heard of or ever will. Not even the celestials know of them! While Visvamitra was still a king, Lord Siva gifted those weapons to him. Not only does Visvamitra possess them but has created newer ones. Never fear for Rama's safety so long as he is with the sage, who implores you to send Rama not because he cannot vanquish the demons but because he wants Rama's fame to pervade the earth." With all his fears allayed Dasaratha consented to let Rama accompany Visvamitra.

              Dasaratha, inspired by Vasishta's gentle persuasion, beamed with joy. Summoning Rama and Lakshmana he along with queen Kausalya bade farewell to Rama and Lakshmana amidst Vedic chants and auspicious mantras. Tranquil of mind and free of anguish Dasaratha fondly kissed Rama on his forehead and delivered him into the care and guidance of Visvamitra. As the great sage set out with Rama, Vayu, the god of wind blew caressingly, the drums of heaven sounded, the skies rained flowers and the palace reverberated with the sound of conches. Visvamitra journeyed back, followed by Rama and Lakshmana. With a pair of quivers strapped to their shoulders and armed with bows the princes were a power to reckon with. As they marched forth, their brilliance illuminated the entire world. They followed Visvamitra like the twin Aswini Devatas, born of the god of fire. With wrist and finger guards made of 'Godha' skin strapped on, bow in hand, lustrous, handsome, and beautifully attired the sons of Dasaratha followed the sage like Skanda and Visaka.

             When they reached the right bank of Sarayu, Visvamitra full of grace and love said, "Rama, dear boy, sip this water let not the auspicious moments slip by. Accept from me a conglomeration of mantras called Bala and AtiBala.Armed with these, you shall suffer neither fever nor fatigue, nor will your beauty fade. No rakshasa can harm you even if you are asleep or off guard. The might of your arms, in wielding the bow and arrow will be unrivaled. You shall have no equal in these three worlds either in skill, beauty, kindness, intellect, resolve or in flawless judgment after the mastery of these mantras. Bala and AtiBala are the mothers of wisdom and knowledge. They will set one free from thirst and hunger. These two mantras are the grand daughters of Lord Brahma. The repeated chanting of these will earn you unequaled fame. You alone are worthy of receiving them. Recited with ascetic discipline they will bestow rare and manifold benefits on you." After bathing in the shimmering waters of the Sarayu and performing 'achamana', Rama received the two mantras, Bala and AtiBala from Visvamitra, the power of which enhanced the glow to match the splendor of the Sun god. With Visvamitra's caring ministrations, Rama and Lakshamana spent a comfortable night sleeping in the open on a bed of grass, on the banks of Sarayu.

                This concludes the chapters 18,19,20,21 and 22 of Balakanda. Here we learnt about Rama's childhood till adolescence, the important event of Sage Visvamitra visiting Dasaratha and asking to send Rama along with him. It is the acquaintance of a great Sage Visvamitra who completes the education of Rama and prepares him for the future. We will learn more about Visvamitra, the rakshasas and the guardianship of Rama in subsequent posts. The custody of Visvamitra ends when Rama wins Sita and marries her. The marriage between Rama and Sita is an important event to look forward to and the foundation is laid now through Sage Visvamitra’s visit and accompanying Rama with him. It is Sage Visvamitra who directs Rama, plays an important role of a Guru in imparting education, and enables Rama to conquer evils and marry Sita. There is still quite a bit of time for the grandest and most celebrated marriage. Let us look at everything in between in the subsequent posts which prepares ground for the famed event.