One day, King Dasharatha had a very special visitor at his court. The famous sage, Vishwamitra came asking for the king's help. The sage lived in a hermitage in the forest and performed sacrifices for the good of the world.
But in the same forest lived a demoness called Tataka who disturbed the sages in the hermitage and spoilt their sacrifices.
Sometimes other demons Subahu and Maricha, came along with her during her raids. Unable to chase the demons away so that they could perform the sacrifices in peace, the sages decided to ask for King Dasharatha's help.
Vishwamitra said, "O mighty king of the Raghu dynasty, your son, Prince Rama, is famous for His bravery and strength. Please send Him to rescue our hermitage from the demons."
King Dasharatha could not think of sending Rama to fight such mighty demons. He pleaded with the sage, "Rama is but a young boy! He will be no match against such powerful demons who know all kinds of tricks to defeat their enemies. I will come myself, to help you."
But Vishwamitra was very sure it was enough that Rama went to fight the demons. He said, "O Dasharatha, your sons are all very strong and brave. No harm will come to Rama."
King Dasharatha was very eager to help, but he was too afraid to send Rama. Finally, he agreed. But he told the sage that he would also send Lakshmana along, as the two brothers were never apart.
The two princes thus set out with Vishwamitra for the forest.
While they walked through the forest, Rama twanged the string of His bow. It made a sound that echoed through the trees.