The first chapter of Ramayana, "Balakanda" mentioned Valmiki narrating the Ramayana to his disciple's Lava and Kusha. But their birth and childhood story is mentioned in the last chapter "Uttara Kanda" which is not believed to be the original work of Valmiki. According to the legend, Sita banished herself from the kingdom due to the gossip of the kingdom folk about her sanctity. She chose self-exile and took refuge in the ashram of Sage Valmiki located on the banks of the Tamsa river. Lava and Kusha were born at the ashram and were educated and trained in military skills under the tutelage of Sage Valmiki. They also learned the story of Rama.