Sundara Kanda (Book of Beauty)

Summary

Sundara Kanda is the only book of the Ramayana where the protagonist is not Rama, but Hanuman. It describes Hanuman's magnificent leap across the ocean to Lanka to find Sita. On his way, he overcomes obstacles like the mountain Mainaka, the serpent mother Surasa, and the demoness Simhika.

Upon reaching Lanka, Hanuman searches for Sita and finally finds her in the Ashoka Vatika, surrounded by demonesses. He witnesses Ravana threatening her and later approaches her, presenting Rama's ring as a token of identification. He consoles her and assures her of Rama's arrival. Before leaving, Hanuman destroys the Ashoka Vatika, kills Ravana's son Aksha Kumara, and allows himself to be captured to meet Ravana. In the court, he warns Ravana to return Sita. When his tail is set on fire, he escapes and burns down the city of Lanka. He returns to Rama with the joyous news and Sita's jewel (Choodamani).

Key Events

• Hanuman's great leap across the ocean.
• Overcoming obstacles: Mainaka, Surasa, and Simhika.
• Entry into Lanka and defeating the guardian deity Lankini.
• Hanuman spots Sita in the Ashoka Vatika.
• Ravana's threat to Sita and Trijata's dream.
• Hanuman meets Sita and gives her Rama's ring.
• Destruction of Ashoka Vatika and slaying of Aksha Kumara.
• Hanuman's capture by Indrajit using the Brahmastra.
• Dialogue with Ravana and the burning of Lanka (Lanka Dahan).
• Return to Rama and delivering the Choodamani.