~ 72. Jatayu Appears ~


In the forest, Rama and Lakshmana saw an enormous eagle.
"Careful, brother!" said Lakshmana. "It might be a rakshasa."
"I am no rakshasa," said the eagle. "My name is Jatayu, a friend of your royal father. I was grieved to hear of his death and of your exile, Rama. Know me as your father's friend, and allow me to watch over you here in the forest."
Rama accepted Jatayu's offer gratefully and took him to their camp to meet Sita.
"Dear Sita," said Jatayu, "this forest is full of dangers. I offer you my help should you ever need it."



Inspired by: Valmiki's Ramayana
Notes: This is the Aranya Kanda (Book 3), sarga 14. Jatayu provides an account of the genealogy of all creation in this sarga which makes for fascinating reading!





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