Summary



Having gifted the most powerful weapons of Visnu to Rama, Agastya said, "Rama! You are being here brings me great joy. The long journey must have wearied you. Sita, that sublime embodiment of virtue, who cannot withstand the harsh jungles, follows you out of her great love for you. Let her be happy at this hermitage. From the beginning of time women have made their men happy in prosperity but ababdoned them in adversity, such is their nature. They are also blamed for being as fickle as lightening, pitiless as a sword and as swift as the winds. But your consort is free of all taint and her fine qualities match those of Arundhati. Your presence here will sanctify this region and bring it renown." Then in all humility Rama asked of Agastya to tell them of a place where water and green groves abounded and where they could live in peace and tranquility. Agastya said "A few miles from here lies Panchavati, close to the river Godavari. Live there in the midst of those lush woodlands, fulfilling your vow and biding time, until the period of exile is over. Living at Panchavati, your valor will stand you in good stead in protecting the ascetic inhabitants of the forest". Taking worshipful leave of Agastya Rama started to Panchavati.