Now, Lord, do me this favour that I may renounce all to worship you day and night.’ On hearing Sugriva’s speech replete with dispassion, Rama with bow in hand smiled and said,

Whatever you have said is all true; yet my words, friend, can never fail.’ Rama (says Kakabhushundi) O Garuda, make all men dance even as a juggler would make his monkey dance – so declare the Vedas.

Then taking Sugriva with him, Raghunatha set off carrying his bow and arrows in his hand. Then Raghupati sent Sugriva on ahead. Who strengthened by Rama, roared with all his might under the very nose of Bali.

On hearing his roar, Bali sallied forth frantic with fury, but his wife clasped his feet and warned him; ‘Listen, my lord! The two brothers with whom Sugriva has made alliance are of unapproachable majesty and might.

They are no other than Rama and Lakshaman the sons of king Dasharath (the lord of Kosala), who can conquer Death himself in battle.’

Said Bali, ‘Listen, my timid darling, Raghunatha is equally disposed toward all. Even if he slay me, I shall have found my Lord (and attain liberation from the bondage of fruitive activities).

So saying, he sailed forth in his great arrogance, caring not a straw for Sugriva. The two brothers closed with each other; Bali browbeat Sugriva and striking him with his first, roared like a clap of thunder.