Through the Vision of Ram, the Sages are Gratified

Sarabhanga and Sutikshana were great sages. On hearing the prophecy of Sri Ram’s exile and presence in the forest, they waited for him until he graced them with his presence.Sri Ram first meets Sarabhanga in order to seek his counsel on getting accustomed to the harsh and unfamiliar part of the forest that they were in. Upon seeing Ram, Sarabhanga is elated. The sage takes his time in feeding his eyes upon Sri Ram, telling the prince of how he had delayed casting away his body only for a glimpse of him. Before he does so, Sri Ram asks the sage where he could make a safe abode in the forest. The sage directs him to go and meet another sage, Sutikshana, for a better answer to the question. At this point, Sarabhanga consigns himself to fire, kindled for that purpose alone, shedding his mortal frame and attains liberation.When Sutikshana sees Lord Ram approaching, he is overwhelmed with love and joy. After the sage cascades him with his respects, the lord asks the sage where he could find a sufficient abode, where they would be free of the inconveniences and dangers of the forest. Sutikshana offers Sri Ram his home, but the strong prince declines because he does not wish to risk injuring the animals living in the area during his regular warrior training. Therefore, the sage suggests leading Lord Ram to see his guru Agastya, in order to get the required guidance. He smiles knowing that Sutikshana was, in doing so, fulfilling the guru dakshina promised to Agastya—that he would bring the lord to him.Thus, the presence of Sri Ram is something most valued and cherished. Sarabhanga and Sutikshana both waited patiently in the forest for the lord to grace them with his presence, whilst Sutikshana led him to Agastya as the highest form of guru dakshina.