Seeing that it was now night, the four divisions of the monkey host returned to the camp of the lord of Kosala. As soon as Rama cast his gracious glance upon them, the monkeys were all relieved of their weariness.

There (in Lanka) Ravana sent for all his ministers and told them all what warriors had been killed in action. ‘The monkeys have destroyed half our forces,’ he said; ‘now tell me at once what strategy should be adopted.’

Thereupon Malyavan, a very old demon, who was Ravana’s maternal grandfather and a sagacious counsellor, spoke words of the soundest advice; ‘Listen, my son, to a few words of instruction from me.

Ever since you stole Sita and brought her here, there have been inauspicious omens more than one call tell. By opposing Rama, whose glory has been hymned by the Vedas and Puranas, no one has ever been at peace.

The same Blessed Lord of grace who slew Hiranyaksha and his brother, Hiranyakashipu, as well as the mighty Madhu and Kaitabha, has become incarnate on earth (in the person of Rama).

Who can show hostility to him who is Death himself, a fire to consume the forest of wickedness, a repository of all perfection and wisdom, and who is adored even by Shiva, and Brahma?

Abandon all feelings of hostility towards Rama, but restore Videha’s daughter to him and worship the Lord of infinite grace and love.’ His words stung Ravana like shafts. ‘Away, wretch, with your accused face,’ he cried.