The Forest Cleansed: Ram Vanquishes Tataka and Subahu

The forest, once home to rishis, saints, and hermits, had now become an abandoned woodland due to the terror caused by the demoness Tataka and her sons, Subahu and Mareech. Possessing the strength of one hundred elephants, they instilled fear in all who ventured near. Vishwamitra cautioned the princes that the demons gained tremendous power at night and could attack without warning at any moment. He advised them to destroy the demons as soon as possible. Ram plucked his bowstring, causing a twang that reverberated throughout the forest. Angered by the sound, Tataka emerged from the trees and attacked Ram and Lakshman. A dreadful battle ensued. Finally, an arrow shot by Ram pierced her body, killing her instantly. Mareech and Subahu quickly advanced to avenge their mother's demise. With two arrows, Ram killed Subahu and hurled Mareech miles away.