Journey to the Ganga

At dawn, Lakshmana ordered Sumantra to prepare a chariot with a comfortable seat, drawn by two horses. Sumantra promptly obeyed. Lakshmana then went to Sita's chamber.

"The King has instructed me to take you to the sages' ashram on the Ganga riverbank," Lakshmana informed Sita.

Sita was thrilled and began to get ready. She packed her favorite clothes and jewelry, intending to donate them to the sages' wives. "Lakshmana," she said as they were about to leave, "I am noticing some inauspicious signs. My eye is twitching, my feet are trembling, and my heart feels uneasy. My enthusiasm and courage are weakening, and I feel a sense of impending doom. Is everything at the palace alright?"

"Y-yes," stammered Lakshmana.

They boarded the chariot and reached the Gomti riverbank that evening, where they spent the night. The next morning, Lakshmana instructed the charioteer to prepare the chariot quickly, as he wished to bathe in the Ganga. They hoped to reach the Ganga riverbank by noon. As the Ganga came into view, Lakshmana started to cry.

"O brave one, why are you dejected?" Sita asked Lakshmana. "I've been waiting to bathe in the Ganga for several days. This is a joyous occasion. Lakshmana, why are you crying and upsetting me as well?"

Upon reaching the Ganga riverbank, Lakshmana and Sita boarded a boat. As Lakshmana wiped his tears, he instructed the boatman to take them to the other shore. He then turned to his charioteer on the riverbank and told him to wait until he returned.