THE SOORPANAKHA EPISODE

On such occasions it was the courtesy of those days for the person accosted to announce himself and recite his name, city and history and enquire of the newcomer concerning his or her family and the purpose of the visit.

Raama began, "I am the eldest son of the great King Dasaratha. My name is Raama. This is my brother Lakshmana. And this, my wife Seeta. Obeying the behests of my father and mother and in fulfilment of dharma, I am now in the forest. And now please announce who you are. What is your family? You look like a woman of the Raakshasa race. What is your purpose in coming here?"

She answered, "Have you heard of Raavana, the heroic son of Visravas and the king of the Raakshasas? I am his sister. My name is Soorpanakha. My brothers Kumbhakarna and Vibheeshana are also renowned warriors.

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]