Restraining the ogres, who were boasting each of his own strength, Vibhīsana begins to talk wisdom, on which Rāvana retires to his own palace.

Prahasta and others reassure Rāvana by vauntingly vowing the death of Śrī Rāma and others.

Indulging in praise of their own might on hearing the command of Rāvana, all the ogres present stimulate him with confidence, asking him not to give way to despondency.

At Lankā Rāvana holds consultation with the ogres on the means of victory in the contingency of a conflict with the monkeys.

While talking with Laksmana, Śrī Rāma is reminded of Sītā and, smitten with pangs of love, gives way to grief and lamentation.

Hearing the report of Hanumān, Śrī Rāma fixes a propitious hour for the departure of his forces for Lankā, and perceives good omens.

Enquired about Lankā by Śrī Rāma on his hearing the appeal

of Sugrīva, Hanumān gives a detailed description of Lankā a

he saw it.

Sugrīva heartens Śrī Rāma, who is tormented with grief, by asking him to take courage.

Hearing the report of Hanumān, and highly rejoiced at his having done something worthy of a noble servant, which could not be accomplished by anyone else, Śrī Rāma applauds him and clasps him to his bosom.

Hanumān tells Śrī Rāma, how Sītā expressed her doubt in the first instance about a monkey being able to leap across a vast sea and how her doubt was resolved by him.

END OF SUNDARAKĀNDA

Once again thank you for joining us for Book 5. We hope you can continue to join and listen to Book 6 (Season 6) The Yuddhakānda!!

Rāma, Rāma.