Commanded by Ravana, Prahasta inquires of Hanuman as to who he was as also his motive in devastating the royal pleasance and killing the ogres. In reply Hanuman says that he destroyed the grove in order that he might be taken captive and dragged to the presence of Ravana, whom he was eager to see, and was compelled in self-defence to kill those who stood in his way. In the end he declares himself to be a messenger of Sri Rama and adds that, though protected against the missile presided over by Brahma, he submitted to its influence only in order to be able to see Ravana.Recitation: 00:00 - 03:18Translation: 03:21 - 09:07

Sundarakanda Sarga 51, "Hanuman narrates the story ", Book 5 Canto 51

This podcast includes an authentic Sanskrit recitation and the reading of a genuine translation in English by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, India. This is not a western translation of the Valmiki Ramayana, nor a re-telling in any form. It is translated by Hindus from within the tradition, and it is thereby recommended as the most authentic recitation and English reading available.

The Ramayana recitation by Sriram-ghanapaathi HariSitaramamurti-ghanapathi is taken from archive.org. The reading is from the English version of Srimad Valmiki Ramayan translation by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, India.