Rama politely introduced himself, his wife Seeta and his brother Lakshmana, explaining that they were the sons of Dasharatha, late King of Ayodhya. In turn, Shurpanakha introduced herself as the sister of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Vibheeshana. She said two more of her brothers, Khara and Dooshana, were roaming the forest. They were all warriors. “I am better suited as your mate than this little woman,” said Shurpanakha, looking scornfully at Seeta. Rama told her that he was a married man and did not wish for a second wife. She should try to persuade his brother Lakshmana. Shurpanakha was a demoness and wished to possess a handsome young man. So, she went up to Lakshmana who promptly told her he was only serving his brother. “You don’t want to marry a servant, do you?” he said, sending her back to Rama.
The Wily Shurpanakha
