Summary:
Bharata performs funeral rites for his father before entering the forest in hopes of retrieving Rama. Bharata finds Rama, who refuses to return to Ayodhya, Bharata then decides to wait in Nandigram until Rama returns. Later, Sita tells Rama and Lakshmana of her birth - wherein her father, King Janaka, finds her lying in a field. Rama and Lakshmana battle the demon Viradha (who can't be injured by sharp weapons) - we find the demon is named Tumburu. Later Rama meets the sage Agastya, who gives him more weapons. We then see Ravana's sister, Shurpanakha, fall in love with Rama, who responds with mockery. Shurpanakha tells her brother Khara, who is one again beaten by Rama, while Shurpanakha is fought off by Lakshmana. Shurpanakha then goes to tell Ravana what has transpired. Ravana then enlists Maricha's help to abduct Sita- ultimately Maricha disguises himself as a golden deer to lure Sita away. Once Sita is on her own, Ravana, disguised as a sage, abducts her - the mighty bird Jatayu watches this happen and sees Sita drop her jewelry to mark her path. Rava has been cursed and can't take advantage of Sita. Rama and Lakshmana hear from Jatayu vaguely of Sita's fate, and set off to search for Sita, they then meet another "Rakshasa" who aids them on their way. They pass through another Hermitage and meet Shabari, who has been waiting in arrested development for Rama's arrival. With her waiting complete, she asks for Rama to perform her rites.
Analysis:
Again there seems to be an emphasis in these entries on cosmic paths; everything is interconnected and foretold. Time seems to be known in these stories, we see consistent examples of characters knowing all they must do and all that will be done.
Bibliography:
Public Domain Edition | Valmiki | Ramayana
Photo Credit:
Rama and Lakshmana seated on Kabandha's arms | Painting on ceiling of temple near Salem
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