Lakshmana, at Rama’s instruction, was asked to honor the revered sages Agastya and Kaushika, those foremost among Brahmanas, inviting them with precious jewels as one would nourish crops with water. “O mighty-armed Raghava,” Rama said, “satisfy them with a thousand cows, with gold, silver, gems, and abundant wealth.” Then Rama remembered the teacher of the Taittiriyas, learned in the Vedas and devoted, who had always attended upon Kausalya with blessings. “Give him, Saumitri, a fine vehicle, attendants, and silk garments—as much as that Brahmana may desire.” “And for our charioteer Citraratha, that honored counselor who has long served us, let him too be satisfied with costly jewels, garments, and wealth. Give from all the herds, a thousand cows, and honor the many reciters of the Kathaka tradition and the staff-bearing youths who dwell here. Though fond of comfort and not given to hard labor, these men are respected by the great for their devotion to daily recitation. For them, have eighty vehicles filled with jewels, two hundred fine oxen, and a thousand measures of rice delivered. And for their maintenance, provide a thousand cows.” Rama continued, “A great assembly of girdled women has come to my mother Kausalya; give each of them a thousand, Saumitri, so that my mother may rejoice in her offering. Honor all these twice-born ones completely, Lakshmana.” Lakshmana, best among men, carried out Rama’s instructions faithfully. Like the god of wealth himself, he distributed treasures to the foremost Brahmanas. Then, with his throat choked by emotion, he spoke to the dependents, having given them much and provided for their livelihoods: “Let neither my house nor Lakshmana’s be empty for any of you until my return.” He reassured all those who were distressed, then instructed the treasurer, “Bring my wealth.” The dependents brought forth all his wealth—a truly impressive heap. Then that tiger among men, Rama, together with Lakshmana, distributed the riches among Brahmanas, young and old, and to the needy. Among those present was a tawny-haired Brahmin of the Garga lineage, named Trijata, who lived by tilling the forest with his plough and spade. His young wife, gathering their children, said to him, “Set aside the plough and spade, and do as I say. Show yourself to righteous Rama—perhaps you will obtain something.” With a radiance like Bhrigu and Angiras, Trijata made his way, unhindered, through the assembly up to the fifth enclosure. Approaching Rama, Trijata spoke: “Prince, mighty one, I am poor and have many children. I always live by tilling the forest; please consider me.” Rama replied with a gentle smile, “Not even one of a thousand cows has yet been given by me. As much as you encircle with your staff, that much you shall receive.” Eagerly, Trijata wrapped his cloth about his waist, seized his staff, and hurled it with all his strength. The staff flew from his hand, crossing the Sarayu river, and landed amidst a great herd of cows near the oxen. Rama, embracing Trijata on the riverbank, then led those cows to the Brahmin’s hermitage. With gentle words, Rama consoled him: “You should not be angry; this was only a jest of mine. Indeed, your power is insurmountable. Wishing to know it, I urged you for this very reason. Now, choose any other boon you desire. I declare truthfully, you shall not be restrained by me. Whatever wealth of mine you wish, let it be properly given to you, so that I may gain both merit and fame.” Trijata, delighted, accepted the herd of cows with his wife, and in return, blessed Rama with prayers for his fame, strength, and happiness to increase. Rama, whose manliness was complete, then distributed the vast wealth he had righteously acquired among friends, prompted by words of proper honor. Whether a twice-born friend, a servant, or a poor beggar, none were left unsatisfied; each received gifts and honors as was fitting. Now, listen to the thirty-third sarga in the glorious Valmiki Ramayana, Ayodhya Kanda. Having given much wealth to the Brahmanas, Rama and Lakshmana, together with Vaidehi Sita, set out to see their father. Their weapons were carried by two attendants, and Sita, adorned with garlands and ornaments, shone brightly beside them. People climbed the palaces, mansions, and towers to catch sight of the illustrious Rama as he passed by. The streets were so crowded with sorrowful citizens that they could not be traversed; instead, the people watched from the rooftops. Seeing Rama walking on foot with his brother and Sita, the hearts of the people were overcome by grief, and they spoke many words among themselves. “He whom once a great fourfold army followed—now only Lakshmana and Sita walk beside him. He, who knew the taste of sovereignty and was a source of so much happiness, would never speak falsely, out of reverence for dharma.