AFTER the destruction of Ravana at Rama’s hands, Nikasha, Ravana’s mother, began to runaway for fear of her life. Lakshmana’ said to Rama:”Revered brother, please explain this strange thing to me. This Nikasha is an old woman who has suffered a great deal from the loss of her many sons, and yet she is so afraid of losing her own life that she is taking to her heels!” Rama bade her come near, gave her assurance of safety, and asked her why she was running away. Nikasha answered “O Rama, I am able to witness all this lila of Yours because I am still alive. I want to live longer so that I may see the many more things You will do on this earth.” (142)