Introduction

This is a story of divine love full of twists and turns. A story of God Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi in human form. This is not a perfect love, but it is a love story people will remember and commemorate forever. It is a story of King Dasharatha's son Rama and King Janaka's daughter Sita.

Dasharatha was a sad king because he had no sons from his three queens. Dasharatha decided to do a Ashwamedha, or horse sacrifice, in order to have sons. The queens were incredibly happy about this sacrifice and were full of hope. They let the horse free and it came back after wandering for one year with a servant. The kingdom held a ritual ceremony for the sacrifice upon its return. Kaushayla, the chief queen, began by slaying the horse. The kingdom was filled with celebration and chanting. Portions of the horse were thrown into the fire as the chanting occurred. The Gods promised Dasharatha four sons. This is because all of the Gods were oppressed by Ravana- a rakshasa (demon), and Vishnu divided himself into four parts. The king then had four sons of which Rama was the most beautiful, and was perceived to have all the marks of Vishnu. Rama was the most connected to Vishnu because he had the most resemblance to him and was also divinely chosen.

A few years later the young boys grew up to be fine young men. Vishvamitra was a sage who wanted Rama and his brother's protection from rakhshasas who disturb their practices and put out their fires. Dasharatha was devastated to know that Rama's life would be in danger performing the task of having to go with the sage but Rama's victory was assured by Vishvamitra. So he let his son go. Rama walked ahead to face a dark and fearfully haunted jungle. This is where the story of Rama and Sita begins. A story that people remember and celebrate to this day.

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