Rama and Lakshmana were enchanted by a peaceful cottage in the middle of the forest. Curiously, they asked the sage who’s ashram it was. Vishwamitra began to narrate “That ashram is sacred to lord Shiva and is occupied by his disciples. Centuries ago Kamadeva, the god of desire resided there in his human form. He was sent to disturb Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati in their meditation. Enraged he burnt Kama’s Human body with his third eye. Since then Kama is known as “Ananga” or “Anga Desa” -The limbless one .” Vishwamitra led them on the the nearby lake to bathe and say their prayers. They spent the night in Shiva’s ashram and spent a comfortable and welcome time there before leaving the next morning.
They sailed over the Sarayu. At a certain point the spray from the waves of the sea got higher and a booming sound was heard. V
ishwamitra explained that it was the River Sarayu rushing to pay its tribute and meet the mighty ganga. Offer your prayers to these sacred rivers with utmost attention. On the southern bank of Ganga, The trudged through dreadful lands. The brothers asked the great sage why it seemed so difficult to them and why the creatures seemed so frightful.
“Long ago Indra became impure and contaminated after killing the demon Vritra. The gods and rishis submerged him in the waters of the holy Ganga and washed of his sins and impurity. Indra was happy and blessed the land of the majestic river. A Yakshini called Tataka appeared there. She was powerful and assumed any form at her will. Along with her son Maricha she ravaged those lands which was once holy and beautiful.”
Vishwamitra beseeched Rama to Kill her although she was very strong, he had the confidence Rama could do it.
