7. The Call to Duty and the Quest for Sita
As advised by Rama, Lakshmana advanced toward Kiskindhya, armed with his bow and arrows. The more he contemplated Sugriva’s ungratefulness, the more disgusted he became, feeling the urge to confront Sugriva about his behavior.
The Approach of Lakshmana
The Vanaras spotted Lakshmana from a distance and, suspecting he might be an enemy, braced themselves for confrontation. This response only fueled Lakshmana’s anger further. Some Vanaras rushed to inform Sugriva of the stranger’s approach, but Sugriva, engrossed in revelry, paid little heed. Angada, however, hurried to greet Lakshmana. In a stern voice, Lakshmana commanded, “Go and inform Sugriva about my arrival. Tell him that my brother is upset with him for his conduct.”
Sugriva’s Dismay
Angada quickly relayed Lakshmana’s message to Sugriva, who replied to his ministers, “I have done nothing wrong. Why should he be angry with me? My enemies must have instigated him against me. I do not fear Rama and Lakshmana; rather, I fear losing the chance to repay their kindness.”
Hanuman’s Counsel
Hanuman advised Sugriva, “O King, do not forget the debt of gratitude you owe to Rama. While you may not have committed any wrongdoing, remember that time is fleeting. We should be prepared to search for Sita Devi. Lakshmana has come to alert you. Rama, who is consumed by thoughts of Sita, might have sent a stern warning. Even if Lakshmana speaks harshly, we must show him all courtesy. You should go out and receive him warmly.”
Entry into the Palace
Meanwhile, Lakshmana, accompanied by Angada, entered the palace, intrigued by its magnificence. As he neared Sugriva’s apartment, he heard sweet melodies and saw beautiful damsels moving about playfully. Realizing that Sugriva had forgotten his promises after gaining the throne, Lakshmana twanged his bowstring, producing a chilling sound.
Sugriva’s Apprehension
Startled by the noise, Sugriva expressed his fear to Tara, “Go and pacify Lakshmana. He is usually calm, but now I hesitate to meet him.” Tara approached Lakshmana, asking gently, “Who has angered you? Who would dare?”
The Accusation
“As if you don’t know!” scoffed Lakshmana. “You are a well-wisher of Sugriva, aren’t you? Is his conduct proper? He promised to help us, yet now appears to have forgotten. What do you expect us to feel if not anger?”
Tara’s Mediation
Tara responded, “O Lakshmana, is it right to be so furious with a friend? Indeed, Sugriva has delayed, but I had kept him occupied with pleasures. Please pardon my folly and your friend’s errors. Great men like you should overlook the mistakes of lesser beings.”
Sugriva’s Acknowledgment
Tara led Lakshmana to Sugriva, who lay on a luxurious bed surrounded by dancing girls. The sight further enraged Lakshmana. Sugriva, realizing the gravity of the situation, humbly stood before Lakshmana with folded hands.
The Call for Action
“It is due to Rama that you are where you are today,” Lakshmana scolded Sugriva. “Yet, you have chosen to neglect his work. Is this not ingratitude? If Rama knew your true nature, he would not have gone to such lengths to relieve your suffering. Frankly, you deserve to be exiled.”
Restoring Harmony
Sugriva remained silent, but Tara interjected, “O Lakshmana, do not deem Sugriva ungrateful or wicked. After enduring much suffering, he momentarily immersed himself in enjoyment. Shouldn’t you treat him with sympathy? Sugriva can and will sacrifice for Rama’s cause. He is gathering all the Vanara soldiers, who will be here shortly. Please calm yourself.”
A United Front
Hearing this, Lakshmana began to relent. Sugriva expressed remorse for the delay, asking, “Is there anyone without mistakes? I beg for your forgiveness.” Impressed by Sugriva’s humility, Lakshmana replied, “We entirely depend on you for the rescue of Sita Devi. Let us go see Rama.”
Mobilizing the Vanaras
Sugriva instructed Hanuman to summon all the Vanaras immediately, declaring that any who failed to appear within ten days would face consequences. Hanuman quickly spread the word to gather the troops.
Meeting Rama
Afterward, Sugriva called for a golden palanquin in which he and Lakshmana traveled to meet Rama, accompanied by numerous Vanaras. Upon arrival, Sugriva prostrated himself before Rama, who lifted him up and embraced him. Everyone took their seats.
Preparation for the Search
Rama reminded Sugriva that it was time to search for Sita. Sugriva assured him, “Do not worry, countless Vanaras will soon be at your service, and with their help, we will succeed.”
The Vanaras Assemble
Sugriva outlined the steps he was taking to gather his soldiers. Rama felt pleased with this report and expressed confidence in Sugriva and his loyal aides. Soon, a vast cloud of dust signaled the arrival of the Vanaras, coming in thousands, each a unique hue and size. They were led by notable heroes such as Sushena, Shatavali, Kesari, and many others who brought their own armies.
Rallying the Forces
Welcoming their king, Sugriva introduced them to Rama, instructing their leaders to prepare food, shelter, and rest for the warriors amid the sprawling forest. Sugriva declared, “This immense force stands ready to follow your orders. Among these soldiers are individuals of remarkable strength and bravery. We await your command.”
Strategic Planning
Rama embraced Sugriva once more and said, “My dear friend, first, we must ascertain that Sita Devi is alive. We must also determine Ravana’s whereabouts. Once we know these details, we can devise our strategy.”
The Vanaras’ Mission
Sugriva climbed a hill to address his soldiers, informing them of their mission. He divided his chiefs into four groups and sent one in each direction, with Hanuman included in the team heading south.
