Episode 29 - Vanaras' flight back to Kishkindha; destruction of the Madhu Garden

The Vanaras led by Angada and Anjaneya accepted the wise Jambavan's word. They left the Mahendra Mountain for Kishkindha, Sugriva's kingdom. They were all enthusiastic and determined to accomplish the remaining task of taking revenge against the Rakshasa King and freeing Sita. Soon they landed in the beautiful Madhu Garden belonging to the Vanara King and guarded by his uncle called Dadhimukha.

The Vanaras, entering the garden, were eager to drink the wine available there and took the permission of Angada, the Prince, and the other elders. They were in a festive mood, walking and talking, singing and dancing and playing together, climbing trees and hills and jumping up and down. All the time, they were drinking wine to their hearts' fill. They were gradually losing control of their minds and doing all kinds of things out of intoxication.

Dadhimukha, the Chief Security Guard, soon realised that the monkeys were destroying the garden, stripping the trees of their fruits, flowers and leaves and completely exceeding their limits. Even as he tried to check them, the monkeys began to threaten him. Dadhimukha pleaded with some of the monkeys to restrain themselves, warned some others and imposed physical punishment on a few others. However, the intoxicated monkeys were not to be subdued. They beat up Dadhimukha and were eating up everything available in the garden besides disfiguring it.

Hanuman soon assured the Vanaras: “O Vanaras! Drink wine without any hesitation. If anyone obstructs you, I will take care of him.” The Prince Angada added: “I have to do even a prohibited act when a triumphant Anjaneya wants it; not to speak of ordinary things like this.” The Vanaras were pleased and admired Angada for his indulgence. They continued to eat and drink and assaulted the security guard who attempted to obstruct them. Finally, most of the security guards who were outnumbered, were completely humiliated by the invading monkeys and took to their heels. The Prince Angada himself engaged Dadhimukha in a fight and broke his limbs.

Dadhimukha realised that the situation had gone out of hand and decided to complain to the King Sugriva, holding the Prince solely responsible for the misbehaviour of the group. Accordingly, he withdrew the security guards and accompanied by them, repaired to the King.

Note: Angada, the Vanara Prince, is as much the owner of the garden as the King and yet he allows the garden to be used up and even mutilated by his triumphant followers as a reward for their toil and success in a noble mission.