Sumantra took the chariot to the southern bank of the Ganga, which marked the boundary of the kingdom of Kaushala. They decided to rest there that night. Guha was the chieftain of all the Nishada tribes, the forest dwellers. He was a great admirer of Rama, and devoted himself to his service. He came to receive Rama, Seeta and Lakshmana and provide them with whatever hospitality he could. Deeply touched, Rama embraced him. “Stay with us here for fourteen years, my lord,” begged Guha. But Rama had a vow to fulfil. He said, “You must move on.” Guha happily provided the best he had and personally served Rama. The next morning, Rama asked Sumantra to return to Ayodhya and look after Dasharatha. With tears pouring from his eyes, Sumantra left, taking leave of Rama, Seeta and Lakshmana.
Guha’s Hospitality
