On the Way to Chitrakoota (Ramayana Series 38)

As Sri Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana proceeded along the path of exile, they reached the sacred confluence of the rivers Ganga River and Yamuna River. There, they visited the hermitage of the venerable sage Bharadvaja. The sage warmly welcomed the royal princes and Sita with great affection and offered them generous hospitality.

Sri Rama requested the sage to suggest a suitable place where they could reside peacefully during their period of exile. Bharadvaja replied, “Not far from here lies the beautiful Chitrakuta mountain, which is ideal for the residence of sages.”

The next morning, they continued their journey and reached the banks of the Yamuna River. Rama and Lakshmana prepared a sturdy raft using dry logs and creepers. All three sat upon the raft and began crossing the river. When they reached the middle of the river, Sita folded her hands and prayed to the goddess Yamuna: “O Mother, bless us so that my husband may successfully complete his vow and we may all return safely to Ayodhya.” After crossing the river, they continued towards Chitrakuta, enjoying the beauty of nature.

After reaching the opposite bank, they came upon a vast banyan tree called “Shyama,” lush with green leaves. Enchanted by its beauty, Sita circumambulated the great tree and prayed sincerely: “O noble tree, may my husband’s vow be fulfilled without obstacles, and may we return safely to Ayodhya.” Rama and Lakshmana smiled gently at her devotion, and thus their journey continued with Sita’s prayers and the courage of the brothers.

Lakshmana moved ahead vigilantly, holding his bow and arrows, protecting his brother and sister-in-law. By evening, they rested in the lush forests along the Yamuna’s banks and resumed their journey towards Chitrakuta.

One beautiful morning, Lakshmana rose early, refreshed from the previous day’s long journey. Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana bathed in the sacred Yamuna and continued towards Chitrakuta along the path indicated by Bharadvaja.

While traveling, Rama described the beauty of the forest to Sita: “Vaidehi, look! These trees appear as if aflame, covered with red blossoms. With the arrival of spring, they seem adorned with garlands of flowers. The branches bend under the weight of fruits, yet there are no humans here to enjoy them.”

Continuing further, Rama pointed out the richness of the forest to Lakshmana: “Look at these large honeycombs hanging from the trees. The melodious songs of birds and the dance of peacocks lend special charm to Chitrakuta. Many great sages reside here, making this sacred mountain most suitable for our dwelling.”

Eventually, they reached the nearby hermitage of the sage Valmiki. The three offered their respectful salutations. Thus Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana began a beautiful chapter of their forest life in the lap of nature.

Captivated by the serenity and natural beauty of the place, Sri Rama decided to reside there and asked Lakshmana to build a suitable hermitage. Lakshmana obeyed and gathered strong wooden poles, bamboo, and clay from the forest. With great care and skill, he constructed a secure and beautiful leaf-thatched cottage, decorating the roof with grass and leaves.

Rama and Sita were delighted on seeing the hermitage. Impressed by Lakshmana’s workmanship, Rama praised him: “Lakshmana, this beautiful dwelling reflects your intelligence and skill.” Lakshmana felt blessed hearing Rama’s affectionate words. They then began spending their days happily in the cottage.

The forest was filled with diverse birds and animals. Trees adorned with colorful blossoms enhanced the beauty of the region, and the deep trumpeting of elephants echoed through the woods. In such a delightful environment, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana lived freely and joyfully without fear.

Near Chitrakuta flowed the sacred river known as Mandakini River (also called Malyavati). Animals and birds drank its pure waters. The presence of the mountain and river brought great peace to Sri Rama. The sorrow he felt upon leaving Ayodhya gradually faded amidst nature’s embrace, and Chitrakuta became a serene and beautiful abode for them.