Hanuman was flying over the ocean to reach Ashokavan. The gods saw Hanuman and sent Sursa, the mother of snakes to test him. She told Hanuman that she wanted to eat him but Hanuman told her that he would come back to him once he informed Rama about Sita’s well being. When Sursa did not agree, Hanuman started increasing the size of his body. Sursa also made her mouth bigger. Then Hanuman eventually became so small in size that he entered her open mouth and flew out immediately. Sursa was very pleased at his intelligence and blessed him that he would accomplish Lord Rama’s work. Hanuman then flew across to a mountain from which he could see the fortress of Lanka. The city was surrounded by water on all sides. There were houses of gold studded with precious gems. There were beautiful gardens, lakes, wells and mountains. There were markets, beautiful roads and well-maintained lanes. There were demons of different kinds who looked very powerful. Strong fighters and warriors were posted at various corners of the city to protect it from enemies. Hanuman thought that the residents of Lanka were destined to die with the sharp arrows of Rama.
JOURNEY TOWARDS LANKA
