Maharshi Valmiki Brings Sita to His Ashram

The students at Maharshi Valmiki's ashram found Sita crying and informed their guru. "Respected guru," they said, "there is a woman outside the ashram whom we've never seen before. She is as beautiful as a goddess and appears to be married. But she is crying inconsolably. We ought to help her."

Maharshi Valmiki was clairvoyant and immediately recognized the woman as Sita. He hurried to her, finding her alone and helpless. "I know you are Sita, the daughter-in-law of King Dasharatha, the wife of Lord Rama, and the daughter of King Janaka," he said. "As the greatest among women, you are welcome here. Through my meditation, I have seen everything and know why you have come to the forest. I also know that you are innocent. You may stay at my ashram; I have no objection. This ashram will be your home." Sita bowed and touched Maharshi Valmiki's feet. 

When the female ascetics saw Valmiki approaching with a woman and stepped forward to welcome him. "Maharshi, you have come here after several days. What do you want us to do?" they asked.

"This woman is Rama's wife, Sita," said Valmiki. "She is chaste and innocent, yet her husband has renounced her. From this moment, she is under my protection. Be gentle with her." Satisfied that Sita would be cared for, he left her with the female ascetics and returned to his hut.