The Return of the Princes and Vishwamitra's Request

Accompanied by the three queens, Emperor Dasharatha stood waiting for the princes at the main door of the palace. After getting off the chariot, Rama first touched Kaikeyi's feet, who lovingly hugged him. Then, Rama touched Sumitra and Kaushalya's feet. The queens were filled with motherly love. Following this, Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna also touched the queens' feet. Emperor Dasharatha had eagerly awaited his sons' arrival. When he saw his sons, his heart filled with affection. Ram and his brothers also touched their father's feet. Dasharatha's happiness knew no bounds, and the excitement echoed in the palace. Dasharatha ordered the generous giving of alms to the poor to mark the occasion of the princes' return. As the eldest among the princes, Rama was the heir apparent to the throne. He guided his younger brothers in governance and taught them to be sincere and virtuous.

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," said the emperor as he touched Vishwamitra’s feet. "It is the fruit of my ancestors' virtues and my good deeds that a great sage like you has come to my house. I give you my word that I will 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. You can send Ram and Lakshman with me to slay these monsters." Emperor Dasharath was taken aback by Sage Vishwamitra's request. Vishwamitra divined Dasharath's state of mind and promised him that no harm would befall Rama or Lakshmana. Vishwamitra himself was a great warrior who was brave and knowledgeable. The emperor was reassured and sent the two boys with Vishwamitra to destroy the monsters.