अरण्यकाण्ड
Aranya Kanda — Ramayana
Book of the Forest · 75 Sargas · Chapters 197–271
Summary
During their exile in the Dandaka forest, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana encounter sages, demons, and divine beings. Rama protects the forest-dwelling sages from Rakshasas. The demoness Surpanakha becomes infatuated with Rama and, after being rejected and humiliated, reports to her brother Ravana. Ravana devises a plan to abduct Sita by sending the demon Maricha disguised as a golden deer. While Rama pursues the deer, Ravana arrives disguised as a mendicant and kidnaps Sita, carrying her away to Lanka. The mighty vulture Jatayu fights Ravana to save Sita but is mortally wounded. This kanda marks the turning point of the epic, as the search for Sita becomes the central quest.
All 75 Sargas in Aranya Kanda
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aranya Kanda about?
During their exile in the Dandaka forest, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana encounter sages, demons, and divine beings. Rama protects the forest-dwelling sages from Rakshasas. The demoness Surpanakha becomes infatuated with Rama and, after being rejected and humiliated, reports to her brother Ravana. Ravana
How many sargas does Aranya Kanda have?
Aranya Kanda has 75 sargas (chapters) in the Valmiki Ramayana, spanning chapters 197 to 271.
What is the meaning of Aranya Kanda?
Aranya Kanda means "Book of the Forest" in Sanskrit (अरण्यकाण्ड).