Guha’s happiness knew no bounds. He along with his near and dear ones received Rama, Seeta and Lakshmana warmly and provided them with whatever hospitality he could. Rama, Seeta, Lakshmana and Sumantra spent the night as the guests of chieftain Guha. The next morning, Rama asked Sumantra to return to Ayodhya and look after king Dasharatha and their mothers. With tears streaming from his eyes, Sumantra left, taking leave of Rama, Seeta and Lakshmana.
After Sumantra had left, Guha said, “Stay with us here for fourteen years, my lord.” But Rama had a vow to fulfil. He said, “We must move on. We are now forest dwellers with the permission of our beloved father. Please take us across the river and return.” Guha happily provided the best he had and personally served Rama. Deeply touched, Rama embraced him to his bosom.
Chieftain Guha then summoned his skilled boatman and asked him to get Rama, Seeta and Lakshmana across river Ganga safely. The boatman bowed to them and brought the boat.
