The Jewels of Sita and the Promise of Friendship

Later, Sugriva remembered that a few days before, a woman crying, "O Rama! O Rama!" was probably Sita. She had thrown her jewelry toward the monkeys. When Sugriva showed these jewels to Rama, tears began to drip from the latter's eyes.

"Look, Lakshmana! When the wicked demon took Sita away, she threw these jewels down," said Rama to Lakshmana.

"Forgive me, brother, I don't recognize the jewels on Sita's head or her earrings, but I know that this anklet belongs to her because I used to touch her feet every morning," Lakshmana replied.

"Friend Sugriva, please tell me where that wicked demon has taken my dear wife," pleaded Rama. "When did you see her? Where does that demon live? Please tell me who that demon is. I will send him to Yamaraja, the god of death, today." 

"O Rama! I am not familiar with the location of that demon," replied Sugriva. "I have no knowledge of his family, bravery, or abilities. However, rest assured that I will do everything in my power to locate Sita. I will utilize all of my abilities to destroy that wicked demon. Please do not allow any weakness to linger in your mind. Such weakness is not befitting of great men like yourself."

"Friend Sugriva, you know everything about friendship. Hearing your words has given my heart solace. You have boosted my self-confidence. I'm glad to have found friends like you during this calamity. Now, we must decide how to inquire about Sita. We must help each other without any hesitation. Just as a seed sowed before the rainy season germinates, our efforts will become fruitful. Sugriva, you may believe my words; I have never made a false promise. I vow to always stand by my words."

"O Rama! I am a victim of my brother Vali's tyranny. I live here on Rishyamook Mountain out of fear of him. He has deprived me of my wife and kingdom. I spend my life in the shadow of fear. Brother Vali has become my mortal enemy. O Rama, have mercy upon me! I am frightened of Vali's terror. There is no one here to protect me. Rama, please save me!"