Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita in the Chitrakuta forest, folio from a Ramayana

Amidst a series of colorful land fantastically imagined trees, the three protagonists wander along the banks of a lotus-strewn river. A pair of cranes and two deer, along with many ducks swimming in the river, adds to the natural element of the scene. Birds and bees abound within the trees.

Rama addresses Sita: “...see the blossoming trees on every side, like unto flaming torches! Look at the Kimshuka Trees with their diadem of flowers; winter is at an end! Here are the Bhallatakas and Bilvas little valued by men; they are bowed under the weight of flowers and fruit, which one cannot eat. O Lakshmana, see the honey the bees have left hanging on each tree, which is gathered in jars. The Natyuha is calling and the Shikhin replies in this ravishing wood , that is carpeted with flowers.…This wonderful and level place that is covered with innumerable trees and is pure, this Chitrakuta Wood would be a pleasant dwelling place for us, O Friend.”