Angad’s attempt to establish peace with Ravan failed. He was sure that a war was imminent. He came back to the camp, and informed everyone about the outcome of the meeting. He himself was very angry with Ravan’s arrogance. Ram, Lakshman, Hanuman, Sugreev and Vibheeshan discussed the further plan of action. They divided the army into four, each under an able general. With Ram’s blessings, they marched towards the battlefield in high spirits. Hanuman led his battalion towards the western entrance of Lanka. Ravan’s army too was ready for the battle. His army consisted of demons with magical powers. To gain strength and courage, Ram’s army of monkeys and bears chanted Ram’s name loudly. On hearing the thunderous war cries of Angad and Hanuman, the demons started running away out of fright. But escape was not easy for them. The monkeys caught the fleeing demons and threw them into the ocean!
The War Begins
