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THE WAY OF LIFE
heroes but also known for their extreme kindness. If they came there, they could release him from that calamity. At once, Sugriva sent for his commander and he sent a message to Shri Ram and Lakshman by his commander.
After the abduction of Sita, Shri Ram and Lakshman were staying in Pathala Lanka along with Viradha. Viradha had sent men to search for Sita but they had not been able to find out her whereabouts.
Sugriva's commander went to Pathala Lanka. He conveyed Sugriva's message to Viradha and Viradha explained to Shri Ram, Sugriva's painful predicament. Shri Ram agreed to go to Kishkinda. This is one special virtue of great men. They are always ready to help those who are in distress. When they see others in distress, they forget their own distress. The melody of benevolence is present in the very breath of great men. Shri Ram did not know Sugriva at all. Viradha told him everything about Sugriva and his adversity; and Shri Ram got ready to go to Vanaradweep.
The commander returned to Kishkinda and informed Sugriva of all that had taken place. Sugriva was greatly overwhelmed with joyful emotions. At once, he flew to Pathala Lanka in his magical airship, approached Shri Ram and prostrated at his feet. Without a moment's delay, Shri Ram and Lakshman came to Kishkinda by Sugriva's magical airship. Viradha also accompanied him. On the way, he told Sugriva about the abduction of Sita and mentioned the need for tracing Sita's whereabouts. Shri Ram sent Viradha back to Pathala Lanka.
The magical airship landed on a ground outside Kishkinda. Shri Ram personally saw both the Sugrivas. Each claimed that he was the genuine Sugriva. Shri Ram thought for a few moments and then took up his mighty bow Vajravartha. He strung the bow and pulled the string of the bow. The sound of the string reverberated throughout Kishkinda. Sahasagati's power of Pratharini could not remain intact. He lost that power. Sahasagati's disguise disappeared. The genuine Sugriva was identified. Shri Ram grew indignant and by shooting one arrow, he slew Sahasagati.
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