Even though the brothers were all right knit, Lakshmana was deeply attached to Rama from his infancy. He was like a second self to Rama, and he pleased him in every way. Unless Lakshmana was present, Rama would neither sleep or eat. Whenever Rama went to the forest to hunt, Lakshmana would follow at his heels, guarding him on all sides. Shatrughna was just as dear to Bharat, and were even more inseparable. Dasarath was just as pleased with his four sons as Brahma feels with the four gods presiding over the four quarters of the universe. His sons were tigers among men, yet they were modest, wise, far-sightedand glorious in every way. They studied hard and soon became well versed in all aspecgs of kingship. As the princes' studies neared completion, Dasarath started thinking about their marriages. One day sage Vishvamitra, the son of Gadhi arrived at Dasarath's door.
