Mareecha

Mareecha, an old rakshasa, senses his life is ending and warns Ravana that his evil plans will bring doom to their kind. He describes Rama’s great strength, but Ravana, filled with rage, threatens him. Fearing for his life, Mareecha reluctantly agrees to help. Knowing he will die, he transforms into a magical golden deer to lure Sita away.

When Sita sees the dazzling deer, she begs Rama to catch it. Lakshmana suspects a trick, but Rama, wanting to please Sita, chases the deer deep into the forest. Too late, he realizes it’s a trap and shoots it. As Mareecha dies, he mimics Rama’s voice, crying for help.

Back at the cottage, Sita panics when she hears the cry and urges Lakshmana to go help. When he hesitates, she accuses him of disloyalty, hurting his feelings. Finally, Lakshmana leaves but warns Sita to stay safe with Jatayu, the eagle.

As soon as Lakshmana is gone, Ravana disguises himself as a holy man and approaches Sita. Though she is kind, she remains loyal to Rama. When Ravana reveals his true monstrous form, Sita bravely defies him. Unable to touch her due to a curse, Ravana lifts the very ground beneath her and carries her away in his flying chariot.

Sita’s courage shines even in danger, but Ravana’s wickedness has set a terrible fate in motion. Will Rama find her in time?