Though the forest looked dark and gloomy from the outside, as they went into it, they were amazed to find that it was filled with ashrams in which many sages lived. The pleasant aroma of sandalwood and incense coming from the sacrificial fires assailed their nostrils. They noticed that even the wild animals walked about freely without fear. Rama and Lakshmana unstrung their bows for they realized that they had nothing to fear in this place.

-D. Vanamali