The Arrival of Shurpanakha

Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita took the sage's blessings and followed his directions toward Panchavati. When they reached the place, they were mesmerized by its beauty. Lakshmana quickly built a beautiful hut with bamboo pillars for the three of them to stay in.

"I am impressed with your handiwork," said Rama, hugging Lakshmana. "In return, I can only offer you my love."

One day, Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita sat outside the cottage, discussing the beauty of nature, their family, and Ayodhya. Just then, the demoness Shurpanakha, who happened to pass by, was spellbound by Rama's divine beauty. She transformed herself into an attractive damsel, approached him, and inquired who he was. After Rama introduced himself, she said, "I have fallen in love with you and wish to marry you. Please accept me as your wife."

Rama smiled. "I am already married to Sita here," he replied politely. "But my younger brother, Lakshmana, is without a woman in this forest. He is more suited to become your husband. Please ask him instead."

Shurpanakha left Rama and approached Lakshmana. "You look brave and strong and are worthy of being my man," she said. "Let us get married and stroll through the forest together."

Lakshmana listened to Shurpanakha and said sarcastically, "I am the servant of my older brother Rama. You don't want to marry a servant, do you? Become Rama's second wife instead. He has everything and will make all your wishes and dreams come true. He may even leave his current wife, who has grown old and is not that beautiful anymore."