The Magician’s Trick

The Magician’s Trick

There was a magician in Lanka named Vidyujjihva who had extraordinary abilities in creating illusions. Thanks to his powers, he created a head exactly like Rama’s and they took it to Sita. When they arrived, they threw it at her feet.

“Here he is, your dear consort!” cried Ravana. “I killed him and beheaded him. Now, accept me as your husband and enjoy life.”

But it had the opposite effect. Believing Rama killed and beheaded, Sita burst into convulsive tears and thought only of dying. But the discussion did not last long; it was abruptly interrupted. An urgency required Ravana’s presence elsewhere. Ravana left Sita weeping and desperate.

Hidden behind a hedge was Sarama, Vibhisana’s wife. She knew how cruel Ravana was and knew very well the wizard he had addressed.

“Chaste lady, don’t cry,” she said in a whisper. “Don’t despair. Rama cannot be defeated by anyone. There is no one who can kill him. I know that at this moment his army has laid siege to Lanka and will soon be here with you. Don’t lose faith. I know who produced that illusion. There is an evil wizard who can do those things. I know Vidyujjihva well. Don’t worry, your suffering will soon be over.”

Sarama’s words made Sita felt encouraged and grateful. Soon came the first news of the impending battle.