- with the river itself for its string and control of the mind (shama) and outer senses (dama) and charity (dana) for its arrows, and all the sins of the Kali age for its prey. Armed with this bow, Chitrakuta looks like a steadfast huntsman who face his quarry and strikes with unerring aim.’

So saying, Lakshmana showed the spot and Rama was delighted when he saw it. When the gods learnt that the site had captivated Rama’s mind, they came to Chitrakuta with Vishvakarma, their chief architect.

They all came disguised as Kols and Kiratas and fashioned beautiful dwellings of leaves and grass; they made a pair of huts, both prettier than words can tell, the one a fine little cottage and the other larger in size.

In that lovely abode the Lord, attended by Lakshmana and Janaki, shone glorious, like Love in the garb of a hermit with his consort, Rati, and the lord of seasons, Spring.

At that time there flocked to Chitrakuta the immortal gods and serpents, Kinnaras and the guardians of the eight quarters. Rama made obeisance to the mall, and the gods gazed with joy on that most longed-for vision.

Showering down flowers, the heavenly host exclaimed, ‘This day, O Lord, we have found a protector!’ With humble supplication they described their unutterable woes, and then joyfully started for their several homes.

Hermits streamed in as they heard the news that Rama had come to say at Chitrakuta. When he saw the exultant throng of holy sages approaching, the moon of the Solar race prostrated himself before them.