Aranya Kaanda
116 - The story of Surpanakha; her approaching Khara, Dusana and Trisira for redress and their subsequent death at Sri Rama's hands
Chaupais
Description
Even as they beheld the Lord the invading warriors could not discharge their arrows; the whole demon host became powerless. Khara and Dusana summoned their ministers and said, "This prince, whoever he may be, is an ornament of the human race. Of all the Nagas, demons, gods, human beings and sages that exist (in this universe) we have seen, vanquished or slain many. But during our whole life, listen to us, our brethren all, we have never beheld such beauty. Even though he has disfigured our sister, he does not deserve death, peerless as he is among men. 'Surrender to us at once the woman you have put in hiding somewhere and return home with your life, both you and your brother.' Deliver this message of mine to him and return immediately with his reply." The heralds went to Sri Rama and delivered the message to Him, in reply to which Sri Rama smilingly said, "We are Ksatriyas by birth and are given to hunting in the woods; wretches like you are the game that we are tracking. We are never dismayed at the sight of a mighty foe and would give battle to Death himself if he ever appeared before us. Though human beings, we are the exterminators of the race of demons and, though youthful in appearance, we are the protectors of the hermits and the torment of the wicked. If you have no strength to fight, you had better return home; I will never kill an enemy who has turned his back upon the field of battle. When you have come up to fight, it would be the height of weakness to play wily pranks or to show compassion to your enemy." The heralds returned forthwith and repeated all that they had been told. The heart of Khara and Dusana was on fire when they heard it.