Kishkindha Kanda (The Empire of Holy Monkeys)

Kiṣkindhā Kāṇḍa focuses on Rāma’s alliance with the vānaras, marking the beginning of the great search for Sītā. After meeting Hanumān—one of the most revered bhaktas in Hindu tradition—Rāma is introduced to Sugrīva, the exiled monkey king. Rāma helps Sugrīva reclaim his throne from Vāli, establishing a powerful friendship and pact. Sugrīva, in return, mobilizes vast vānarā armies across the world to search for Sītā. The narrative highlights Hanumān’s devotion, the formation of search parties, and various omens and encounters as the vānaras begin their mission. This kāṇḍa lays the foundation for the events that lead directly to Sītā’s discovery.