In the hermitage built so lovingly by Lakshmana, Rama lived with his consort in great contentment. One day, into this bliss wandered Surpanakha, sister of Ravana, lord of the rakshasas. She saw Rama who was effulgent and god like. She beheld his gloriously radiant countenance, his mighty chest like that of a lion. Long- armed and limpid eyed, he was a veritable feast to the eyes. With the majestic gait of an elephant, he was youthful, valiant and royal. With his soft skin that glowed like a blue lotus, he was as captivating as the god of love himself. The sight of that magnificent figure, which rivaled the likes of Indra, bewitched Surpanakha. She fell for the magnetic charm of Rama! The contrast between the divine and the evil was immense and striking. Rama was young, and handsome, Surpanakha was old and hideous. He was slender of waist and she coarse and thick. Rama's melodious voice was in sharp contrast to the raucous tones of the demon, just as his righteousness put her wily and sinister ways to shame. Rama's beautiful black hair was so opposed to her coppery tangles. Yet the abhorrent rakshasa woman was possessed by an unbridled desire for Rama, who was an epitome of virtue. To him she said, "Accompanied by your wife, wearing matted locks, you masquerade as an ascetic but bear arms like a Kshatriya. What brings you here, to this territory of the Rakshasas?" and Rama said, "There lived a king, Dasaratha, whose fame rivaled that of the gods. I am Rama, the first born of his sons and this is Lakshmana my brother, who follows me at all times and under all circumstances. This is my consort Sita, daughter of the king of Videha. I am here at the behest of my father and mother Kaikeyi. Bound by the commands of my parents, I live the life of an ascetic. Now tell me who you are and who your kinsmen are?"

Surpanakha said, "I am Surpanakha, a demoness who can take any form at will. All creatures live in terror of me and alone I roam these forests. Ravana, king of all the rakshasas and son of Visravas, is my brother. Kumbhakarna my other brother is strong and powerful and ever in a deep sleep. Vibhishana is also a brother of mine, but his ways are not the ways of the rakshasas. My other two brothers Khara and Dooshana are renowned for their valor. Abandoning them all for you, I have come to take you as my husband. Why do you want Sita? She is ugly and misshapen and does not befit you. Make me your wife. I will devour your brother and this woman to rid you of them. We will then roam this enchanting Dandaka with its forests and mountain peaks"