The days at Panchavati were enjoyable for both the princes and for Seeta. They sat and talked of the seasons, the beauty of nature, their family, Ayodhya and of philosophy. Lakshmana served his brother and sister-in-law with deep devotion. One winter morning, they all went as usual to bathe in the river and offer their prayers. They returned to bask in the sun outside their hut. A rakshasi, Shurpanakha, who was Ravana’s sister, was roaming in the forest. She saw Rama and was infatuated deeply with the handsome young prince. She decided to entice Rama. She had the magical capacity of demons to change her form at will. So, she transformed herself into a beautiful young woman and approached Rama. “Who are you?” she asked, “You do not seem to be an ascetic though you are dressed like one. You have this woman here and are carrying arms.”
Shurpanakha at Panchavati
