“151 Stories from the Vedas, the Puranas, and the Upanishads

As Rama grew older, he became an excellent student and learned the skills expected of a prince. He was trained in the use of weapons and learned important lessons about duty, truth, discipline, and compassion. His younger brother Lakshmana was especially close to him and always accompanied him.

One day, Sage Vishwamitra came to King Dasharatha and asked that Rama accompany him to protect his sacred rituals from demons. Although Dasharatha was worried about sending his young son, Rama accepted his responsibility. Lakshmana also went with him.