The Return of the Princes and Vishwamitra's Request

Emperor Dasharatha and the three queens stood at the main entrance to the palace, eagerly awaiting their sons' arrival. When the chariot reached the palace, Rama got off first. He bowed to Kaikeyi, and then to Sumitra, Kaushalya, and Dasharatha. Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna followed suit. The emperor and the queens were very proud of their sons and warmly welcomed them home. Dasharatha's happiness knew no bounds, and he gave generous alms to the poor to mark this joyous occasion.

One day, a sentinel informed Emperor Dasharatha that Sage Vishwamitra had arrived at the palace. In those days, everyone feared Vishwamitra. Upon hearing the news of Vishwamitra's arrival, the emperor rushed to welcome him. "O Maharshi, I am blessed by your arrival," he said, touching the sage's feet. "It is the fruit of my ancestors' virtues and good deeds that a great sage like you has arrived at my palace. I promise to do anything you ask."

"Emperor Dasharatha, while I was performing my yagya, two powerful monsters, Maricha and Subahu, tried to cause a disturbance," replied Vishwamitra. "They demolished my yagya by pouring blood and bones into the sacrificial fire. I want you to send Rama and Lakshmana with me to slay these monsters."

Dasharatha was dumbstruck. How could he send his teenage sons to battle powerful demons? Recognizing the tumult in Dasharatha's mind, Sage Vashishtha stood up and said, "Emperor, send Rama and Lakshmana with Sage Vishwamitra. The princes are immensely strong and intelligent, and Vishwamitra himself is a great warrior. Rest assured that no harm will come to them."

Dasharatha had the utmost respect for Vashishtha and heeded his advice. He called his two sons and entrusted them to Vishwamitra's care.