It was at that time when the great Visvamitra, the sage of immortal fame who had reached the highest peaks of ascetic perfection, arrived in Ayodhya. His austerities were so severe that the Devas were frightened several times, thinking that he wanted to destroy them with the fire of his power. He entered the royal palace and announced himself, asking to be received by the king. As soon as Dasaratha learned of the lucky arrival, he leapt from the throne and rushed to welcome him, taking with him everything necessary to honor the saint. When the puja was over, everyone sat down, and it was Dasaratha who broke the silence.
“Oh, great Rishi, saints like you purify every place they visit. I am delighted with your arrival, and I want to promise to meet your every need, even though I know that ascetics of your caliber have no needs. However, I hope you came here with some requests. I would be happy, so I could commit myself to your service.”
The sage had a grave expression, but a vivid light of holiness and mercy emanated from his dark eyes. He was visibly pleased with the king’s complete availability. Without any haste, he spoke:
“Actually, I’ve come here with a specific request,” Visvamitra said, “which arises from problems that hinder my peace of mind and that of the other hermits with whom I live. I came to ask for your assistance.”
Dasaratha felt glad that he could do something for such a famous sage.
“Whatever the obstacle, assume that it no longer exists,” replied Dasaratha enthusiastically. “Nothing in this world must hinder the life of those who work in their own spirit for the benefit of all. Tell me, what’s your problem?”
“In this period,” said the ascetic, “we are carrying out sacrificial ceremonies of great importance, but two Raksasas prevent us from carrying them out, disturbing the planned procedures. They throw dirty and contaminated things into the arena which must always be kept clean. I would like the two evil ones, Maricha and Subahu, to be killed so that the peace return to our lives.”
“Oh, Visvamitra,” said Dasaratha, “I myself will leave today to put an end to the life of the two evildoers. Do not fear. Soon your yajnas will be able to calmly resume as before.”
But the Rishi did not seem happy.
“No, virtuous king. I don’t want you to come. I ask you to entrust me with your children Rama and Laksmana. They will be the ones to destroy the Raksasas.”
“Rama and Laksmana?” Dasaratha exclaimed. “But they are little more than two boys.”
Visvamitra looked at him slightly irritated.
“I know. But I have valid reasons to ask them, and not you in person or others.”
Dasaratha began to feel agitated. The mission was dangerous, he did not want to expose his young children, whom he loved dearly, to those dangers.
“Oh, wise one, I have never been defeated in battle. You cannot doubt that I am capable of obtaining the result. Don’t worry: My army and I will destroy the two Raksasas.”
Seeing Dasaratha agitated, Visvamitra frowned, annoyed by the king’s lack of faith. His voice became even darker and deeper.
“Don’t you think I can protect your children? I asked for Rama and Laksmana. If you don’t want to give them to me, just tell me and I’ll leave instantly.”
Seeing the wise man determined in his intent and thinking of the grave danger facing his children, Dasaratha felt faint. His ministers rushed to support him. He recovered in time to hear Visvamitra’s grave voice thundering.
“When I walked in you promised me you would give me anything. But I see you don’t want to keep your promise!”
He got up and made the act of leaving with his face visibly angry, when the wise Vasistha called him, stopping him.
“Great Visvamitra, do not be angry with our king. He sincerely wants to serve you, but he is afraid for the boys. Wait one more minute; I’ll talk to him. I’ll convince him to have faith in the protection you can provide for them.”
The Rishi stopped and Vasistha turned to the king. He told him:
“Rama and Laksmana will not be in danger. Remember that Rama was born for the destruction of all the Raksasas and that he is also protected by Visvamitra, who could kill Maricha and Subahu himself if he was not engaged in that sacrifice. Do not worry. Send your children with him with a serene heart, and soon you will see them return victorious and radiant with glory.”
After a thousand uncertainties, Dasaratha agreed.
This is a section of the book “The Ramayana”, in English.
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