Summary



Hanuman saw that over Kishkinda the last wisps of white and gray had drifted away, leaving bare the brilliance of the blue skies. He also saw Sugriva, a king who had achieved his goal with Rama's help, who had promised to return the favor, but seemed oblivious of his obligations! Neglecting his country and his duties, obsessed with the pleasures of his senses, he was forever reveling with the woman of Kishkinda and with Tara whom he had always coveted. Deploring Sugriva's indifference in redeeming his pledge to Rama, Hanuman, decided to remind the Vanara king of his duty and said to him, "It is not only imperative to help a friend in need, but the time you had set to render that help is long over-due. Though none in the three worlds can oppose and escape his arrows, the noble prince waits patiently for your call. He is restless, he pines for Sita and thoughts of her plight torment him!Yet he will not remind you of your promises. Sugriva! You who render favors unasked for, should you not help Rama who has given you back your wealth and your kingdom, risking his own life? The indomitable Vanaras devoted to you are a legion, to them allot their role in the search for Sita". Sugriva made his decision that very moment. He sent for Nila and asked him to call in his men, from all the directions. "Gather the swiftest and the bravest among those who guard the bounds of the kingdom. Warn them that any monkey, who does not reach Kishkinda within fifteen days from now, will be punished with death! And my orders are irreversible. Inform Angada, Jambavan and all venerable Vanaras of my decision" commanded Sugriva.