Kaikasi was one of the daughters of Sumali and Ketumati, the Rakshasas. She was married to Muni Visravas and the mother of Ravana.
Sumali with his family lived for a long time in Patala, the Naraka. He once visited the earth and wanted his daughter Kaikasi to entice Visravas. Visravas was mesmerized by her beauty and married her. She gave birth to Ravana, the huge Kambhakarna who grew up in the forest.
Showing posts with label Characters in Ramayana. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Characters in Ramayana. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Sumantra
In the Hindu mythology it is mentioned that Sumantra was the chief counselor Of Maharaja Dasaratha.
Sumatra once made a prophecy that Aswamedha was to be performed by the Rishi Sringa. He pacified the infant Rama with a mirror. Sumantra was sent by Vasishtha to summon the Maharaja to the ceremony of the crowning of Rama as the King. Kaikeyi, Dasarath`s wife intervened and desired Sumatra to bring Lord Rama into their presence, and on his arrival she informed him of a previous promise of Maharaja and stated that he should go into exile. Sumantra reproached Kaikeyi but all in vain. Sumantra then drove Rama and Sita out of Ayodhya in the royal chariot, and on his return to the palace delivered Rama`s parting message to Dasaratha
Sumatra once made a prophecy that Aswamedha was to be performed by the Rishi Sringa. He pacified the infant Rama with a mirror. Sumantra was sent by Vasishtha to summon the Maharaja to the ceremony of the crowning of Rama as the King. Kaikeyi, Dasarath`s wife intervened and desired Sumatra to bring Lord Rama into their presence, and on his arrival she informed him of a previous promise of Maharaja and stated that he should go into exile. Sumantra reproached Kaikeyi but all in vain. Sumantra then drove Rama and Sita out of Ayodhya in the royal chariot, and on his return to the palace delivered Rama`s parting message to Dasaratha
Sarama
In the epic Ramayana it is said that Sarama is one of the female guardians placed over Sita when she was a captive in Lanka. Sarama is an elderly Rakshasi differed from the others, and was of a kind disposition. The beauty and misfortune of the gentle princess sita touched her with pity. In the extremity of Sita`s distress, when an attempt had been made to convince her that Rama was dead then Sarama took the fainting Sita in her arms. Sarama then bending tenderly over her whispered comforting words in her ears and said that Rama was not dead and that it was cruel trick of magic meant for her. Then Sarama told how she had heard, Ravana planning this scheme for persuading Sita to believe that her husband is dead. Sarama then kindly narrated to Sita the landing of a vast army of Rama that seemed to have sprung from the bosom of the sea.
Sita
In Hindu mythology, Sita is the spouse of Rama the esteemed as an exemplarily of womanly and wifely virtue. She sprang from a furrow when king Janaka was plowing his field and Rama won her as his bride by bending Shiva`s bow.Sita`s abduction by the demon king Ravana and subsequent rescue are described in the Ramayana. She kept herself chaste during her long imprisonment, and on her return she proved her purity by undergoing an ordeal by fire. A symbol of the sufferings and strengths of women, she is one of the most revered figures in the Hindu pantheon.
Thataka
Thataka was a beautiful Yaksha princess who turned into demoness in the epic Ramayana. Thataka was the daughter and only child of the Yaksha king Suketu. Thataka had a romance with Asura king Sumali. She had two sons with Sumali, Subahu and Mareecha and a daughter Kaikesi. Thataka and Sumali decided to marry their daughter to the sage Vishrava so that she could have the progeny that would be omnipotent and ruler of the three worlds. They organized a meeting between Kaikesi and Vishrava , in a way that it seemed to be a `chance encounter` and the Rishi, who was already married could fell in love with Kaikesi. Kaikesi and Vishrava had three sons namely Ravana, Vibhishana and Kumbhakarna and a daughter named Soorpanakha.
Rishi Agastya cursed both Suketu and Sumali to death. Thataka took the curse on herself through her son Subahu to take revenge on the sage. As a result sage Agastya was enraged and cursed Thataka that she will lose her beautiful physique and both Thataka and her son Subahu would be transformed to horrific demonic creatures with cruel, cannibalistic nature.
Tathaka and Subahu became revengeful on sages and they attempted to harass as many rishis as they could by destroying their Yagnas (sacrifice) with rains of flesh and blood. Brahmarishi Vishwamitra was especially the goal of Thataka. Vishwamitra could bear no more Thataka`s harassment. He finally approached King Dasaratha and sought his help.The King send two of his four sons, sixteen years old Rama and Lakshman to the forest to protect both sage Vishwamitra and his Yajna.
When Thataka and Subahu attempted again to destroy the Yajna of Vishwamitra, rama first warned them not to do so. They did not listened to him and laughed at Rama by calling him a `mere boy`. Rama then killed both the mother and son. This act helped Thataka to gain the blessings of Vishwamitra and all other assembled sages.
Rishi Agastya cursed both Suketu and Sumali to death. Thataka took the curse on herself through her son Subahu to take revenge on the sage. As a result sage Agastya was enraged and cursed Thataka that she will lose her beautiful physique and both Thataka and her son Subahu would be transformed to horrific demonic creatures with cruel, cannibalistic nature.
Tathaka and Subahu became revengeful on sages and they attempted to harass as many rishis as they could by destroying their Yagnas (sacrifice) with rains of flesh and blood. Brahmarishi Vishwamitra was especially the goal of Thataka. Vishwamitra could bear no more Thataka`s harassment. He finally approached King Dasaratha and sought his help.The King send two of his four sons, sixteen years old Rama and Lakshman to the forest to protect both sage Vishwamitra and his Yajna.
When Thataka and Subahu attempted again to destroy the Yajna of Vishwamitra, rama first warned them not to do so. They did not listened to him and laughed at Rama by calling him a `mere boy`. Rama then killed both the mother and son. This act helped Thataka to gain the blessings of Vishwamitra and all other assembled sages.
Sugreeva
In Hindu mythology Sugreeva was the younger brother of Vali, and the ruler of the kingdom Kishkindha. In some legends Sugreeva is depicted as son of Surya, the sun God. As the leader of monkeys Sugriva helped Rama to search and liberate his wife, Sita from the captivity of Rakshasa king Ravana.
Another legend says that Sugreeva is the son of Ahalya and Indra. Ahalya was the beautiful wife of Sage Gautama. Lord Indra and Surya came in the guise of sage Gautama and they had union with Ahalya. Ahalya had two sons, Sugreeva and Vali, who came from Indra and Surya respectively. At first they both were human beings but as soon as sage Gautama came to know that they were not his sons he threw Vali and Sugreeva in oceans and cursed them to turn into monkeys.
Vali ruled the kingdom of Kishkindha to the subjects of Vanara or monkeys. Tara was his wife and Sugreeva was his brother. At first the two brothers were very closed to each other. One day, a raging demon came to the gate of the capital and challenged Vali in a fight. Vali accepted the challenge but as soon as he proceeded towards the demon it was afraid and flew away in a deep cave. Vali entered the cave chasing the demon and asked his younger brother Sugreeva to guard the entrance of the cave. Sugreeva waited there for a long time but nobody came out.
Instead Sugreeva could hear great roar of the demon and the blood oozed out from the mouth of the cave. Sugreeva with a heavy heart concluded that his bother Vali had died in the battle and sealed the mouth of the cave by rolling a boulder. He returned to the Kishkindha and gave the news to other monkeys. He then took the charge of the kingdom as the ruler. But Vali was alive and conquered the battle. When ultimately he could return home he found that Sugreeva had become the king of Kishkindha. Vali decided that his brother Sugreeva had betrayed him. Though Sugreeva humbly tried to explain everything but Vali was not ready to listen anything. As a result he banished Sugreeva from Kishkindha and the two brothers, who were once good friends, became enemies.
In exile, Sugriva met Shri Rama, who was the avatar of Vishnu. Rama was searching for his wife Sita who was kidnapped and captivated by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Sugreeva joined Rama in quest of Sita. Rama promised in return that he would kill Vali and would re-enthrone Sugreeva as the king of Kishkindha.
Rama and Sugreeva went for Vali. Rama stood back while Sugreeva accused Vali for taking over his wife and kingdom and challenged him in a fight. The two monkey brothers, Vali and Sugreeva rushed to each other, fighting with trees and stones and with fist, teeth and nails. They both look alike and indistinguishable in the eyes of the observer. So Sugreeva`s counceller Hanuman stepped forward and put a garland of flowers around Sugreeva`s neck. Rama then could easily distinguish Vali and killed him by driving an arrow through Vali`s heart. When Vali had expired Sugreeva married his widow Tara and anointed in the throne of Kishkindha.
Sugreeva sent his most trusted companion Hanuman to find Sita. Hanuman returned with the news that Ravana, the demon king had captivated Sita in his island fortress of Lanka. When Rama decided to set for Lanka, Sugreeva also joined him along with his monkey-army to help him. When the army reached the seashore they built a special bridge across the sea to reach Lanka. The army also protected Rama in his citadel. After the great battle, Rama killed Ravana and Sita was liberated.
During the battle Sugreeva almost died when he decided to face a Rakshasa Kumbhakarna, the brother of Ravana. Sugreeva attacked the demon with the trunk of the Sala tree. The tree merely broke over Kumbhakarna`s head. The demon then caught hold of Sugreeva and dragged him off. He was sure to kill him but Rama`s brother Lakshman interfered and saved Sugreeva`s life.
Another legend says that Sugreeva is the son of Ahalya and Indra. Ahalya was the beautiful wife of Sage Gautama. Lord Indra and Surya came in the guise of sage Gautama and they had union with Ahalya. Ahalya had two sons, Sugreeva and Vali, who came from Indra and Surya respectively. At first they both were human beings but as soon as sage Gautama came to know that they were not his sons he threw Vali and Sugreeva in oceans and cursed them to turn into monkeys.
Vali ruled the kingdom of Kishkindha to the subjects of Vanara or monkeys. Tara was his wife and Sugreeva was his brother. At first the two brothers were very closed to each other. One day, a raging demon came to the gate of the capital and challenged Vali in a fight. Vali accepted the challenge but as soon as he proceeded towards the demon it was afraid and flew away in a deep cave. Vali entered the cave chasing the demon and asked his younger brother Sugreeva to guard the entrance of the cave. Sugreeva waited there for a long time but nobody came out.
Instead Sugreeva could hear great roar of the demon and the blood oozed out from the mouth of the cave. Sugreeva with a heavy heart concluded that his bother Vali had died in the battle and sealed the mouth of the cave by rolling a boulder. He returned to the Kishkindha and gave the news to other monkeys. He then took the charge of the kingdom as the ruler. But Vali was alive and conquered the battle. When ultimately he could return home he found that Sugreeva had become the king of Kishkindha. Vali decided that his brother Sugreeva had betrayed him. Though Sugreeva humbly tried to explain everything but Vali was not ready to listen anything. As a result he banished Sugreeva from Kishkindha and the two brothers, who were once good friends, became enemies.
In exile, Sugriva met Shri Rama, who was the avatar of Vishnu. Rama was searching for his wife Sita who was kidnapped and captivated by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. Sugreeva joined Rama in quest of Sita. Rama promised in return that he would kill Vali and would re-enthrone Sugreeva as the king of Kishkindha.Rama and Sugreeva went for Vali. Rama stood back while Sugreeva accused Vali for taking over his wife and kingdom and challenged him in a fight. The two monkey brothers, Vali and Sugreeva rushed to each other, fighting with trees and stones and with fist, teeth and nails. They both look alike and indistinguishable in the eyes of the observer. So Sugreeva`s counceller Hanuman stepped forward and put a garland of flowers around Sugreeva`s neck. Rama then could easily distinguish Vali and killed him by driving an arrow through Vali`s heart. When Vali had expired Sugreeva married his widow Tara and anointed in the throne of Kishkindha.
Sugreeva sent his most trusted companion Hanuman to find Sita. Hanuman returned with the news that Ravana, the demon king had captivated Sita in his island fortress of Lanka. When Rama decided to set for Lanka, Sugreeva also joined him along with his monkey-army to help him. When the army reached the seashore they built a special bridge across the sea to reach Lanka. The army also protected Rama in his citadel. After the great battle, Rama killed Ravana and Sita was liberated.During the battle Sugreeva almost died when he decided to face a Rakshasa Kumbhakarna, the brother of Ravana. Sugreeva attacked the demon with the trunk of the Sala tree. The tree merely broke over Kumbhakarna`s head. The demon then caught hold of Sugreeva and dragged him off. He was sure to kill him but Rama`s brother Lakshman interfered and saved Sugreeva`s life.
Satrughna
In the epic Ramayana, Satrughna was Rama`s half brother and Lakshman`s twin brother. He was son of Dasaratha, the king of Ayodhya and Sumitra. Satrughna was married to Sita`s sister Shrutakirthi. Satrughna literally means one who conquers his `Shatru` or enemies.
Like Lakshman, Satrughna was also easily perturbed. When Rama had to go to exile due to conspiracy of Kaikeyi and Manthara, satrughna`s anger fall upon old maid Manthara. He caught hold of her hair and pulled her to Bharatha. Satrughna even prepared to kill Manthara but Bharatha prevented him by saying Rama would not going to accept this.
When Rama became the king of Ayodhya and Bharatha was the prince, all people were happy under his rule. But suddenly Lavanasura, the son of Ravana,who was still alive became very powerful by acquiring the deadly weapon Trishula from lord Shiva and started giving a lot of trouble to the Rishis (sages) and other good people.
The Rishis could no longer bear the barbarities and prayed to King Rama to protect them by killing the demon. Rama put the responsibility of killing Lavanasura on Satrughna, who willingly accepted to go there and kill the terrible demon. Satrughna was a strong person and he had many good qualities including devotion and faith for Shri Rama.When Rama appointed Satrughna with the task of killing the demon, Satrughna touched Rama`s feet and asked Rama to put his grace on him so that he could destroy the enemy. Rama knew that Satrughna was a powerful person. So he smilingly blessed Satrughna and explained him the secrets of the weapon Trishula.
Rama told Satrughna that the Trishul was kept in the house of Lavanasura. The Rakshasa was away from his home every morning to gather his food, which primarily consisted of meat. Rama ordered that the Lavanasura should be killed before he returns home and takes his meal. Satrughna listened carefully Rama`s instruction and started, after taking his blessings. At night, satrughna rested in Valmiki`s ashram, where Sita had just given birth to Lava and Kusha.
Satrughna met Sita Devi and her twin sons. But he decided to suppress the news from Rama as he felt it would be not proper to meet Sita. As soon as Satrughna left the Ashram, he visualized Sita and Rama in his own mind and went to face Lavanasura, the frightful demon.Satrughna fought with Lavanasura and killed him. After this, Satrughna returned to Rama, touched his feet and prayed to spend the rest of his life in the feet of Rama. But Rama did not agree. He ordered Satrughna to be the king of the area where Lavanasura ruled earlier.
Satrughna obeyed Rama`s instruction and ruled the area for twelve years. He gave immense satisfaction to his subjects and protected the Sages as he ruled in an expert manner. After twelve years Satrughna could bear no more the separation from Rama and decided to return to Ayodhya. On his way back, Satrughna again spent the night in Valmiki`s ashrama. That time the two boys Lava and Kush were twelve years old and they sang beautifully the songs of Ramayana before Satrughna. Satrughna lost himself in joy and ecstasy. But he behaved in such a manner that they could not think that he was connected with them. Finally Satrughna returned to Ayodhya.
After returning to Ayodhya Satrughna described Rama his wonderful experience in Valmiki`s Ashrama. Rama being an incarnation of Vishnu, knew everything from before. But still he enjoyed the narration of Satrughna. Rama instructed Satrughna not to speak about his experience in Ayodhya at that moment.
Later, when Rama performed the Aswamedh Yajna (the horse sacrifice), Satrughna was the leader of the army following the horse.
Like Lakshman, Satrughna was also easily perturbed. When Rama had to go to exile due to conspiracy of Kaikeyi and Manthara, satrughna`s anger fall upon old maid Manthara. He caught hold of her hair and pulled her to Bharatha. Satrughna even prepared to kill Manthara but Bharatha prevented him by saying Rama would not going to accept this.
When Rama became the king of Ayodhya and Bharatha was the prince, all people were happy under his rule. But suddenly Lavanasura, the son of Ravana,who was still alive became very powerful by acquiring the deadly weapon Trishula from lord Shiva and started giving a lot of trouble to the Rishis (sages) and other good people.
The Rishis could no longer bear the barbarities and prayed to King Rama to protect them by killing the demon. Rama put the responsibility of killing Lavanasura on Satrughna, who willingly accepted to go there and kill the terrible demon. Satrughna was a strong person and he had many good qualities including devotion and faith for Shri Rama.When Rama appointed Satrughna with the task of killing the demon, Satrughna touched Rama`s feet and asked Rama to put his grace on him so that he could destroy the enemy. Rama knew that Satrughna was a powerful person. So he smilingly blessed Satrughna and explained him the secrets of the weapon Trishula.Rama told Satrughna that the Trishul was kept in the house of Lavanasura. The Rakshasa was away from his home every morning to gather his food, which primarily consisted of meat. Rama ordered that the Lavanasura should be killed before he returns home and takes his meal. Satrughna listened carefully Rama`s instruction and started, after taking his blessings. At night, satrughna rested in Valmiki`s ashram, where Sita had just given birth to Lava and Kusha.
Satrughna met Sita Devi and her twin sons. But he decided to suppress the news from Rama as he felt it would be not proper to meet Sita. As soon as Satrughna left the Ashram, he visualized Sita and Rama in his own mind and went to face Lavanasura, the frightful demon.Satrughna fought with Lavanasura and killed him. After this, Satrughna returned to Rama, touched his feet and prayed to spend the rest of his life in the feet of Rama. But Rama did not agree. He ordered Satrughna to be the king of the area where Lavanasura ruled earlier.
Satrughna obeyed Rama`s instruction and ruled the area for twelve years. He gave immense satisfaction to his subjects and protected the Sages as he ruled in an expert manner. After twelve years Satrughna could bear no more the separation from Rama and decided to return to Ayodhya. On his way back, Satrughna again spent the night in Valmiki`s ashrama. That time the two boys Lava and Kush were twelve years old and they sang beautifully the songs of Ramayana before Satrughna. Satrughna lost himself in joy and ecstasy. But he behaved in such a manner that they could not think that he was connected with them. Finally Satrughna returned to Ayodhya.After returning to Ayodhya Satrughna described Rama his wonderful experience in Valmiki`s Ashrama. Rama being an incarnation of Vishnu, knew everything from before. But still he enjoyed the narration of Satrughna. Rama instructed Satrughna not to speak about his experience in Ayodhya at that moment.
Later, when Rama performed the Aswamedh Yajna (the horse sacrifice), Satrughna was the leader of the army following the horse.
Vibhishana
Vibhishana is a significant character in the epic Ramayana, who served Rama during the fight of Rama and Ravana though he was the brother of Ravana, the king of Lanka. Although Vibhishana was born in Rakshasa dynasty he was a noble character. Vibhishana was against the kidnapping and abduction of Sita. He advised his elder brother Ravana to return Sita to her husband Rama. He was exiled by Ravana and joined Rama`s army.Later, when Rama defeated Ravana, he coroneted Vibhishana as the king of Lanka.
Vibhishana was a `Sattvic` person with pure heart and soul. From his early childhood he was a pious man and spent all his time in meditation on the name of Lord. Brahma was propitiated by his devotion. He appeared eventually and offered Vibhishan any boon he wanted. Vibhishana said that only thing he wanted was to fix his mind on the lotus feet of the Lord. He also prayed to have strength so that he could always remain in association with Lord Vishnu and also wanted a `Darshan` (holy sight) of the Lord. Vibhishana`s prayer was granted. He gave up his wealth and family and joined Rama, who was the incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Vibhishana was the youngest son of sage Vishrava, the son of sage Pulastya, who was one of the heavenly Guardians. The two elder brothers of Vibhishana were Ravana, the king of Lanka and Kumbhakarna. Although Vibhishana was a descendent of demon race, he was alert and pious and always considered him as a Brahmin, as his father was one.
Vibhishana had difference of opinion with his elder brother Ravana. He protested against the kidnapping of Sita. For this reason, Ravana exiled him from Lanka. Vibhishana`s mother Kaikesi advised him to seek the shelter of Rama and to serve him. Rama at that very moment was assembling an army to conquer Ravana and rescue Sita. Lord Rama accepted Vibhishana`s service and then on Vibhishana was his companion during the war.
In the Lanka war Vibhishana became a valuable asset to Rama and his army as he had many secret knowledge about Lanka. Vibhishana without any hesitation disclosed many secrets and thus became the key factor for Rama`s success in the war. Vibhishana revealed the secret path to the temple of Mata Nikumbala, the family deity of Pulastya clan, and Lakshman went there to destroy the Yajna of Indrajit before his fight with Indrajit. However, Vibhishana is also known as a great traitor for this act.
Vibhishana is a symbol of devotion to Shri Rama. He established the fact that a person from any birth and any clan can be the devotee of supreme lord in any circumstances of life.
After Ravana`s death in the war Rama anointed Vibhishana as the King of Lanka. Vibhishana transformed his subjects from the path of evil to the path of Darma (righteousness). His wife Queen Sharama was also a pious lady and helped Vibhishana in his effort.
When Shri Rama left Ayodhya at the end of his reign, he revealed his original form as Vishnu and asked Vibhishana to stay on earth to show people the path of truth and righteousness. Hence Vibhishana is said to be one among the eight immortals or Chiranjeevins. Lord Vishnu also ordered Vibhishana to worship Lord Ranganatha ,the family deity of Sun Dynasty, to which Shri Rama belonged.
Vibhishana was a `Sattvic` person with pure heart and soul. From his early childhood he was a pious man and spent all his time in meditation on the name of Lord. Brahma was propitiated by his devotion. He appeared eventually and offered Vibhishan any boon he wanted. Vibhishana said that only thing he wanted was to fix his mind on the lotus feet of the Lord. He also prayed to have strength so that he could always remain in association with Lord Vishnu and also wanted a `Darshan` (holy sight) of the Lord. Vibhishana`s prayer was granted. He gave up his wealth and family and joined Rama, who was the incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Vibhishana was the youngest son of sage Vishrava, the son of sage Pulastya, who was one of the heavenly Guardians. The two elder brothers of Vibhishana were Ravana, the king of Lanka and Kumbhakarna. Although Vibhishana was a descendent of demon race, he was alert and pious and always considered him as a Brahmin, as his father was one.
Vibhishana had difference of opinion with his elder brother Ravana. He protested against the kidnapping of Sita. For this reason, Ravana exiled him from Lanka. Vibhishana`s mother Kaikesi advised him to seek the shelter of Rama and to serve him. Rama at that very moment was assembling an army to conquer Ravana and rescue Sita. Lord Rama accepted Vibhishana`s service and then on Vibhishana was his companion during the war.
In the Lanka war Vibhishana became a valuable asset to Rama and his army as he had many secret knowledge about Lanka. Vibhishana without any hesitation disclosed many secrets and thus became the key factor for Rama`s success in the war. Vibhishana revealed the secret path to the temple of Mata Nikumbala, the family deity of Pulastya clan, and Lakshman went there to destroy the Yajna of Indrajit before his fight with Indrajit. However, Vibhishana is also known as a great traitor for this act.
Vibhishana is a symbol of devotion to Shri Rama. He established the fact that a person from any birth and any clan can be the devotee of supreme lord in any circumstances of life.
After Ravana`s death in the war Rama anointed Vibhishana as the King of Lanka. Vibhishana transformed his subjects from the path of evil to the path of Darma (righteousness). His wife Queen Sharama was also a pious lady and helped Vibhishana in his effort.
When Shri Rama left Ayodhya at the end of his reign, he revealed his original form as Vishnu and asked Vibhishana to stay on earth to show people the path of truth and righteousness. Hence Vibhishana is said to be one among the eight immortals or Chiranjeevins. Lord Vishnu also ordered Vibhishana to worship Lord Ranganatha ,the family deity of Sun Dynasty, to which Shri Rama belonged.
Kumbhakarna
Kumbhakarna is also an important character in the Hindu epic Ramayana. He is a Rakshas (demon) as well as brother of Ravana, king of Lanka. Kumbhakarna literally means the person with ears like a pot (Kumbha means pot and Karna means ear). Kumbhakarna was a giant in size and depicted as large as mountain. Despite his monstrous size and great hunger, Kumbhakarna had an innocent mind and good character though he killed many sages and ate them to show only his power.
Kumbhakarna undertook a penance to get the blessings of Lord Brahma. Brahma was pleased with Kumbhakarna and offered him a boon. But that time Saraswati tied his tongue firmly. So instead of asking for Indraasan (sit of Indra) Kumbhakarna uttered Nindraasan (bed for sleep). Brahma granted his request. Ravana realized that the boon was a curse in reality and so he asked Brahma to undo his boon. In another version of the story Kumbhakarna did another austerity to ask Brahma to take his boon back and make him alert always. Thus Brahma decided that Kumbhakarna would sleep for six months at a stretch and remain awake for another six consecutive months. However when Kumbhakarna woke up from six months sleep he felt very hungry and ate whatever he got in the vicinity including humans.
When Ravana was humiliated in the war with Rama he decided to seek his brother Kumbhakarna`s help. When Kumbhakarna was informed he was preparing to go for sleep. In the other version of the story Kumbhakarna was made awakened from the sleep with a great difficulty. However Kumbhakarna had no mood to fight. He tried to pursue Ravana to stop the war as he thought Ravana was wrong and was inviting unnecessary trouble by his useless insistence to marry Sita. He also advised Ravana to release Sita and put an end to the conflict with Rama.
But Ravana insisted Kumbhakarna to join the war. Kumbhakarna was very loyal and patriotic. He was also boastful about glory of demon rule and prosperity of Lanka. Ravana knew this weakness of Kumbhakarna and hence he appealed Kumbhakarna in the name and honor of the Rakshasa clan and dynasty. Kumbhakarna was charged and agreed to terminate Rama forever. He was full of enthusiasm and energy and drank before leading the Rakshasa army in the battlefield.
A fierce fight started between the Rakshasa and Vanara army. Kumbhakarna killed and ate many monkeys. Even he injured Hanuman, knocked Sugreeva down to unconsciousness and imprisoned him. Therefore Rama took the charge of the battle by himself. Kumbhakarna had magical power and he was adept with many illusive forms to confuse the enemy. It was difficult to hit Kumbhakarna`s true body as many Kumbhakarna appeared in front and all the missiles and arrow missed him.
Kumbhakarna engulfed a large portion of the monkey army and created `Rain of fire`. This resulted in confusion and chaos amongst the monkey battalion. Rama in turn created `rain of fire` to extinguish the fire. Kumbhakarna created `rain of stones` and Rama countered the attack by creating an appropriate protective cover. The battle continued for quite a long time. Finally Rama attacked Kyumbhakarna with his most powerful arrow strengthened with deadly divine missile. When this missile hit Kumbhakarna he was heavily injured and his life came to an end.
On the deathbed Kumbhakarna uttered the name of Rama and thus he was liberated from the instincts and tendency of mortal world.
Kumbhakarna had two sons Kumbha and Nikumbha who also fought in the battle against Rama and were killed.
Kumbhakarna undertook a penance to get the blessings of Lord Brahma. Brahma was pleased with Kumbhakarna and offered him a boon. But that time Saraswati tied his tongue firmly. So instead of asking for Indraasan (sit of Indra) Kumbhakarna uttered Nindraasan (bed for sleep). Brahma granted his request. Ravana realized that the boon was a curse in reality and so he asked Brahma to undo his boon. In another version of the story Kumbhakarna did another austerity to ask Brahma to take his boon back and make him alert always. Thus Brahma decided that Kumbhakarna would sleep for six months at a stretch and remain awake for another six consecutive months. However when Kumbhakarna woke up from six months sleep he felt very hungry and ate whatever he got in the vicinity including humans.
When Ravana was humiliated in the war with Rama he decided to seek his brother Kumbhakarna`s help. When Kumbhakarna was informed he was preparing to go for sleep. In the other version of the story Kumbhakarna was made awakened from the sleep with a great difficulty. However Kumbhakarna had no mood to fight. He tried to pursue Ravana to stop the war as he thought Ravana was wrong and was inviting unnecessary trouble by his useless insistence to marry Sita. He also advised Ravana to release Sita and put an end to the conflict with Rama.But Ravana insisted Kumbhakarna to join the war. Kumbhakarna was very loyal and patriotic. He was also boastful about glory of demon rule and prosperity of Lanka. Ravana knew this weakness of Kumbhakarna and hence he appealed Kumbhakarna in the name and honor of the Rakshasa clan and dynasty. Kumbhakarna was charged and agreed to terminate Rama forever. He was full of enthusiasm and energy and drank before leading the Rakshasa army in the battlefield.
A fierce fight started between the Rakshasa and Vanara army. Kumbhakarna killed and ate many monkeys. Even he injured Hanuman, knocked Sugreeva down to unconsciousness and imprisoned him. Therefore Rama took the charge of the battle by himself. Kumbhakarna had magical power and he was adept with many illusive forms to confuse the enemy. It was difficult to hit Kumbhakarna`s true body as many Kumbhakarna appeared in front and all the missiles and arrow missed him.
Kumbhakarna engulfed a large portion of the monkey army and created `Rain of fire`. This resulted in confusion and chaos amongst the monkey battalion. Rama in turn created `rain of fire` to extinguish the fire. Kumbhakarna created `rain of stones` and Rama countered the attack by creating an appropriate protective cover. The battle continued for quite a long time. Finally Rama attacked Kyumbhakarna with his most powerful arrow strengthened with deadly divine missile. When this missile hit Kumbhakarna he was heavily injured and his life came to an end.
On the deathbed Kumbhakarna uttered the name of Rama and thus he was liberated from the instincts and tendency of mortal world.
Kumbhakarna had two sons Kumbha and Nikumbha who also fought in the battle against Rama and were killed.
mandodari
Mandodari was the beautiful and pious wife of demon king Ravana in Ramayana. She was the daughter of Maya, the king of giants and the celestial dancer, Apsara Hema. Mandodari is also the mother of Indrajit, the courageous warrior of Ramayana.
Mandodari is one of the `Panch Kanyas` (five ladies) in Hindu mythology, the others being Ahalya, Draupadi, Kunti and Tara. The Pancha Kanyas are `Pancha Bhoota` or five elements of nature. Legends say that all the sins of an individual wash off with the uttering of the name of these Pancha Kanyas.
When Mandodari was born, her mother Hema deserted her as well as her father Maya and went to heaven. In the absence of his wife Maya showered all his love to Mandodari and brought her up with great care.
Once, Maya was wondering on earth with his daughter Mandodari. Mandodari was about fifteen years old that time and her beauty radiated like a fresh-blossomed flower. They were in a dense forest and Ravana, the demon king of Lanka met Maya. They came to each other and Maya gave her daughter`s hand to Ravana. They two were married in an auspicious moment and Maya gifted Ravana lot of divine and deadly weapons.
Though Ravana had many wives he always loved Mandodari most of all. Mandodari always remained Ravana`s favorite and most beloved. She always wished well for her husband and as she was a pious lady, she tried to bring Ravana in the path of piety. When Ravana captured Sita, Mandodari tried to convince him in a very humble way. She knew that Rama was not an ordinary man but was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Sita also was the part of Jagadjanani( mother of all goddess) Yogamaya. Mandodari tried to pursue Ravana so that he returned Sita and asked for Rama`s friendship. Ravana neither listened to Mandodari`s word nor he scolded her, as he knew that she always wished him good.
But destiny had something else for Mandodari`s fate. When Ravana died at the end of the battle, Mandodari was mourning. Rama saw Mandodari and blessed her so that all her illusions disappears.
Mandodari is one of the `Panch Kanyas` (five ladies) in Hindu mythology, the others being Ahalya, Draupadi, Kunti and Tara. The Pancha Kanyas are `Pancha Bhoota` or five elements of nature. Legends say that all the sins of an individual wash off with the uttering of the name of these Pancha Kanyas.
When Mandodari was born, her mother Hema deserted her as well as her father Maya and went to heaven. In the absence of his wife Maya showered all his love to Mandodari and brought her up with great care.
Once, Maya was wondering on earth with his daughter Mandodari. Mandodari was about fifteen years old that time and her beauty radiated like a fresh-blossomed flower. They were in a dense forest and Ravana, the demon king of Lanka met Maya. They came to each other and Maya gave her daughter`s hand to Ravana. They two were married in an auspicious moment and Maya gifted Ravana lot of divine and deadly weapons.
Though Ravana had many wives he always loved Mandodari most of all. Mandodari always remained Ravana`s favorite and most beloved. She always wished well for her husband and as she was a pious lady, she tried to bring Ravana in the path of piety. When Ravana captured Sita, Mandodari tried to convince him in a very humble way. She knew that Rama was not an ordinary man but was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and Sita also was the part of Jagadjanani( mother of all goddess) Yogamaya. Mandodari tried to pursue Ravana so that he returned Sita and asked for Rama`s friendship. Ravana neither listened to Mandodari`s word nor he scolded her, as he knew that she always wished him good.But destiny had something else for Mandodari`s fate. When Ravana died at the end of the battle, Mandodari was mourning. Rama saw Mandodari and blessed her so that all her illusions disappears.
Kaikeyi
In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Kaikeyi was the youngest of King Dasratha`s three wives and was the queen of Ayodhya as well as mother of Bharata. The word `Kaikeyi` means `belonging to Kaikeya`, which is an ancient country.
Kaikeyi was a dear wife to King Dasaratha. Once, during a war Dasaratha`s chariot wheel broke. At that very moment of distress Kaikeyi was with Dasaratha. She helped Dasaratha by fixing the wheel of the chariot. Dasaratha aws so pleased by the service that he offered her two boons. Kaikeyi said that she will ask the boons when she will feel for.
Kaikeyi was perhaps a bit insecure in her heart as she was the youngest of the three queens and she feared that Dasaratha might not love her that much as he loved his two other queens. Kaikeyi`s maid Manthara suggested her to increase her status by making Bharata the King instead of Rama, which will make Kaikeyi the queen mother. She also convinced Kjaikeyi for the exile of the eldest prince Rama.
Just before the crowning ceremony Kaikeyi asked Dasaratha for the two boons he promised before. By one boon Kaikeyi asked to anoint her son Bharata in the throne of Ayodhya and for second boon she asked for Rama`s exile from Ayodhya for fourteen years. Dasaratha granted the boon to keep the truth of his promise but he died of a broken heart as he was separated from his dear son Rama.
Kaikeyi came to repent her actions at Dasaratha`s death and she blamed herself for the whole incident. Her own son Bharata blamed her and said that he would never call her `mother` again. Manthara, though forgiven by Rama, killed by Shatrughna.
Though the popular legend portrays Kaikeyi in a villainous manner but the actual Ramayana written by Sage Valmiki depicts Kaikeyi as a great lady, who helped Lord Rama.
Once Rama went to mother Kaikeyi and approached her for a discussion. He confessed to Kaikeyi that he was the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and had come to the earth to save the mankind. Rama also added that he needed to leave Lanka for fourteen years in order to kill the king of Asuras, ravana, who stayed in Lanka. Rama asked mother Kaikeyi to do something so that Rama, Sita and Lakshmana could go to exile for fourteen years of `Vanavasa`(forest abode). He said that it would be greatest of all sacrifice as everybody would misunderstand Kaikeyi and she would be responsible for the whole thing. Rama also mentioned that Kaikeyi would be depicted as villainous character for the future generation forever. Kaikeyi was a bold, strong and wise woman. She felt that Lord Vishnu himself was asking for a favor to her. In comparison with that all her sacrifice seemed to be very trivial. Kaikeyi realized that one does not get such an opportunity to serve the lord in his/ her lifetime. Kaikeyi`s name was pronounced as a wicked and evil woman and shameful motherhood. But she sacrificed for the welfare of mankind. Thus Kaikeyi became the most beloved of lord Vishnu. He not only granted Kaikeyi the `Moksha` but also gave her a place in his abode at `Vaikuntha`.
Kaikeyi was a dear wife to King Dasaratha. Once, during a war Dasaratha`s chariot wheel broke. At that very moment of distress Kaikeyi was with Dasaratha. She helped Dasaratha by fixing the wheel of the chariot. Dasaratha aws so pleased by the service that he offered her two boons. Kaikeyi said that she will ask the boons when she will feel for.
Kaikeyi was perhaps a bit insecure in her heart as she was the youngest of the three queens and she feared that Dasaratha might not love her that much as he loved his two other queens. Kaikeyi`s maid Manthara suggested her to increase her status by making Bharata the King instead of Rama, which will make Kaikeyi the queen mother. She also convinced Kjaikeyi for the exile of the eldest prince Rama.
Just before the crowning ceremony Kaikeyi asked Dasaratha for the two boons he promised before. By one boon Kaikeyi asked to anoint her son Bharata in the throne of Ayodhya and for second boon she asked for Rama`s exile from Ayodhya for fourteen years. Dasaratha granted the boon to keep the truth of his promise but he died of a broken heart as he was separated from his dear son Rama.Kaikeyi came to repent her actions at Dasaratha`s death and she blamed herself for the whole incident. Her own son Bharata blamed her and said that he would never call her `mother` again. Manthara, though forgiven by Rama, killed by Shatrughna.
Though the popular legend portrays Kaikeyi in a villainous manner but the actual Ramayana written by Sage Valmiki depicts Kaikeyi as a great lady, who helped Lord Rama.
Once Rama went to mother Kaikeyi and approached her for a discussion. He confessed to Kaikeyi that he was the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and had come to the earth to save the mankind. Rama also added that he needed to leave Lanka for fourteen years in order to kill the king of Asuras, ravana, who stayed in Lanka. Rama asked mother Kaikeyi to do something so that Rama, Sita and Lakshmana could go to exile for fourteen years of `Vanavasa`(forest abode). He said that it would be greatest of all sacrifice as everybody would misunderstand Kaikeyi and she would be responsible for the whole thing. Rama also mentioned that Kaikeyi would be depicted as villainous character for the future generation forever. Kaikeyi was a bold, strong and wise woman. She felt that Lord Vishnu himself was asking for a favor to her. In comparison with that all her sacrifice seemed to be very trivial. Kaikeyi realized that one does not get such an opportunity to serve the lord in his/ her lifetime. Kaikeyi`s name was pronounced as a wicked and evil woman and shameful motherhood. But she sacrificed for the welfare of mankind. Thus Kaikeyi became the most beloved of lord Vishnu. He not only granted Kaikeyi the `Moksha` but also gave her a place in his abode at `Vaikuntha`.
Jatayu
In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Jatayu is a demigod in the form of a bird who tried to save Sita from the grip of Ravana when Ravana kidnapped Sita and headed towards Lanka. Jatayu was son of Aruna and nephew of Garuda. Jatayu fought with Ravana gallantly but as he grew old Ravana could defeat him very easily. He cut Jatayu`s wings and injured him fatally. When Rama and Lakshman came there searching for Sita, they found wounded Jatayu. Jatayu was dying but still he informed Rama about his battle with Ravana and also told them the direction in which Ravana had taken Sita.
Jatayu and Sampaati were two brothers. When they were young, they used to compete as to who could fly higher. One day when Jatayu and Sampaati were competing similar way,Jatayu flew so high that he was about to get scorched by sun`s flames. Sampaati saved Jatayu by spreading his wings and saved him from burning in hot flames. In this process, Sampaati himself got injured and lost his wings. After that Sampaati lived wingless for the rest of his life. In some other version of the story their role is reversed and the stories depict it was Jatayu who saved Sampati from sun.
The place where Lord Rama found wounded Jatayu was named as Jatayu Mangalam, now Chadaya Mangalam, located in the Kollam district of Kerala. A huge rock in this place is attributed to Jatayu as Jatayu Para.
Jatayu and Sampaati were two brothers. When they were young, they used to compete as to who could fly higher. One day when Jatayu and Sampaati were competing similar way,Jatayu flew so high that he was about to get scorched by sun`s flames. Sampaati saved Jatayu by spreading his wings and saved him from burning in hot flames. In this process, Sampaati himself got injured and lost his wings. After that Sampaati lived wingless for the rest of his life. In some other version of the story their role is reversed and the stories depict it was Jatayu who saved Sampati from sun.
The place where Lord Rama found wounded Jatayu was named as Jatayu Mangalam, now Chadaya Mangalam, located in the Kollam district of Kerala. A huge rock in this place is attributed to Jatayu as Jatayu Para.
Janaka
In ancient India, Janaka was king of Mithila and the father of Sita, the beautiful central character of Ramayana. Janaka was remarkable for his great knowledge, good works and sanctity. Janaka is also known as Siradhwaja(one, who is plough banner). When king Janaka was ploughing the ground and preparing for a sacrifice to have offspring, Sita sprang up from the furrow and thus he got a child.
When Sita grew up, Janaka arranged a Swayambhara, where he proposed a test of strength to string the great bow of Shiva called `Haradhanu`. He decided that one, who will be able to do it, would be able to have Sita`s hand. Lord Rama passed the test and was married to Sita. Janaka had three other daughters namely Mandavi, Urmila and Shrutakirthi who were married to three brothers of Rama, Bharat, Lakshman and Shatrughna respectively.
Janaka was a brave king as well and was versed in all the Shastras and Vedas like a sage or Rishi. Janaka was the dearest student of Yaajnavakya, who was also a wise person. In Bhagavad Gita Srikrishna cites Janaka as an example of Karma Yoga.
King Janaka was also known as `Rajarshi` as he was a Raja (king ) and Rishi (sage) at the same time. He administered the kingdom of Mithila (Videha) and at the same time he attained the spiritual advanced state of a Rishi. Sage Ashtavakra instructed Janaka about the nature of `Atman`(self).This instruction together are written in the famous treatise of `Astavakra Gita`.
When Sita grew up, Janaka arranged a Swayambhara, where he proposed a test of strength to string the great bow of Shiva called `Haradhanu`. He decided that one, who will be able to do it, would be able to have Sita`s hand. Lord Rama passed the test and was married to Sita. Janaka had three other daughters namely Mandavi, Urmila and Shrutakirthi who were married to three brothers of Rama, Bharat, Lakshman and Shatrughna respectively.
Janaka was a brave king as well and was versed in all the Shastras and Vedas like a sage or Rishi. Janaka was the dearest student of Yaajnavakya, who was also a wise person. In Bhagavad Gita Srikrishna cites Janaka as an example of Karma Yoga.
King Janaka was also known as `Rajarshi` as he was a Raja (king ) and Rishi (sage) at the same time. He administered the kingdom of Mithila (Videha) and at the same time he attained the spiritual advanced state of a Rishi. Sage Ashtavakra instructed Janaka about the nature of `Atman`(self).This instruction together are written in the famous treatise of `Astavakra Gita`.
Indrajit
Indrajit or Meghnaada is a great warrior of Ramayana, who was son of Ravana, the king of Lanka and Mandodari, daughter of Mayasura. Indrajit was such a courageous warrior that he could rival Rama with a great fighting skill. Indrajit was an ideal son and citizen.
Indrajit was named as Meghnaada at his birth because when the child cried for the first time, thunder and lightening resounded, signifying the birth of a great warrior. Lord Brahma conferred his cognomen Indrajit upon him when he defeated and imprisoned Indra, the king of gods. Indrajit was neither a deva (god), nor a bhakta (devotee) but still he was so renowned because of his courage and efficiency in battle. Though Indrajit was a rakshasa, still his respect for his father Ravana paralleled Rama`s devotion to his father Dasaratha. Indrajit realized that Lakshman was the incarnation of a divine being and it was not easy to defeat him, still he chose to fight him till the end according to his father`s wish rather than selecting a disgrace of leaving the battle.
Indrajit was married to Sulochana (also known as Prameela). Prameela came from the nagas and was daughter of Adishesha, who was the incarnation of Lakshmana according to some sects.
When Indrajit got his victory over Indra, he was granted with a Brahmastra. It is believed that Brahmastra was a great weapon having tremendous power and when it left the bow it could beat any arrow and kill any person at wish.
Indrajit took a significant role in the Great War between Rama and Ravana. He had access to all the divine weapons like Brahmastra, Pashupatastra etc. Indrajit even bound Rama and Lakshman under the `Nagpash` (serpent spell). The king of birds Garuda subsequently freed Rama and Lakshman from the Nagpash by killing the serpents.
Indrajit was unbeatable in any war as he carried out Yajna(sacrifice) before any battle, and could only be killed by enemy force who destroyed the Yajna. Lakshman attacked the Yajna with the help of Sugreeva and successfully destroyed it. Indrajit came out of the temple and had a terrible battle with Lakshman. He shot Brahmastrato kill Lakshman but the missile denied to kill him. He shot Pashupatastra, which Shiva bestowed him but it also denied to kill his enemy.
Finally Indrajit used the most powerful missile of the three worlds to slay Lakshman but it was also unsuccessful. After that Indrajit knew that it would be difficult to defeat Lakshman and used his magical power to transport himself to his father Ravana`s palace. He tried to pursue Ravana once again to bow before Rama and adapt the side of truth but Ravana was stubborn at his resolve and Indrajit`s efforts were all in vain. Indrajit then said goodbye to his mother Mandodari and his wife Sulochana for the last time.
Finally Indrajit returned to the battlefield. Frightful war started between Indrajit and Lakshman and Lakshman pierced Indrajit`s neck with his arrows, which caused his death. The army of Rama was overjoyed with the success and wanted to celebrate the victory by desecrating Indrajit`s body. But Rama was a virtuous man and adhered to his `Dharma`. Rama said that Indrajit was his enemy when he was alive but now that He is dead he is no more their enemy. Rama took off his shawl and covered the body of the slain warrior and asked Hanuman to carry the body to the main entrance of Lanka so that royal family could carry out the funeral process of Indrajit.
Indrajit was named as Meghnaada at his birth because when the child cried for the first time, thunder and lightening resounded, signifying the birth of a great warrior. Lord Brahma conferred his cognomen Indrajit upon him when he defeated and imprisoned Indra, the king of gods. Indrajit was neither a deva (god), nor a bhakta (devotee) but still he was so renowned because of his courage and efficiency in battle. Though Indrajit was a rakshasa, still his respect for his father Ravana paralleled Rama`s devotion to his father Dasaratha. Indrajit realized that Lakshman was the incarnation of a divine being and it was not easy to defeat him, still he chose to fight him till the end according to his father`s wish rather than selecting a disgrace of leaving the battle.
Indrajit was married to Sulochana (also known as Prameela). Prameela came from the nagas and was daughter of Adishesha, who was the incarnation of Lakshmana according to some sects.
When Indrajit got his victory over Indra, he was granted with a Brahmastra. It is believed that Brahmastra was a great weapon having tremendous power and when it left the bow it could beat any arrow and kill any person at wish.Indrajit took a significant role in the Great War between Rama and Ravana. He had access to all the divine weapons like Brahmastra, Pashupatastra etc. Indrajit even bound Rama and Lakshman under the `Nagpash` (serpent spell). The king of birds Garuda subsequently freed Rama and Lakshman from the Nagpash by killing the serpents.
Indrajit was unbeatable in any war as he carried out Yajna(sacrifice) before any battle, and could only be killed by enemy force who destroyed the Yajna. Lakshman attacked the Yajna with the help of Sugreeva and successfully destroyed it. Indrajit came out of the temple and had a terrible battle with Lakshman. He shot Brahmastrato kill Lakshman but the missile denied to kill him. He shot Pashupatastra, which Shiva bestowed him but it also denied to kill his enemy.
Finally Indrajit used the most powerful missile of the three worlds to slay Lakshman but it was also unsuccessful. After that Indrajit knew that it would be difficult to defeat Lakshman and used his magical power to transport himself to his father Ravana`s palace. He tried to pursue Ravana once again to bow before Rama and adapt the side of truth but Ravana was stubborn at his resolve and Indrajit`s efforts were all in vain. Indrajit then said goodbye to his mother Mandodari and his wife Sulochana for the last time.
Finally Indrajit returned to the battlefield. Frightful war started between Indrajit and Lakshman and Lakshman pierced Indrajit`s neck with his arrows, which caused his death. The army of Rama was overjoyed with the success and wanted to celebrate the victory by desecrating Indrajit`s body. But Rama was a virtuous man and adhered to his `Dharma`. Rama said that Indrajit was his enemy when he was alive but now that He is dead he is no more their enemy. Rama took off his shawl and covered the body of the slain warrior and asked Hanuman to carry the body to the main entrance of Lanka so that royal family could carry out the funeral process of Indrajit.
Angada
Angada was a great Vanara (monkey) in the Hindu epic Ramayana, who helped Rama to search his wife Sita along with Sugriva and other monkeys. Angada was the son of monkey king Vali and his wife Tara. He was the nephew as well as stepson of Sugriva.
Vali at the time of his death requested Sugriva to take care of his son Angada and to protect him everyway, as Sugriva would have done in case of his own son. Vali stated that Angada was dearer than life to him and asked Sugriva to be his refuge in dangers and father, donor and protector to him.
Sugriva consecrated Angada as the prince of Kiskindhya and groomed him in such a manner that he was able to successfully execute any duty of higher responsibility. When Vanara task was formed for the search of Sita, Angada was assigned the post of assistant to Nila, one of the senior most deputies of Sugriva. Sugriva ordered Angada to approach the senior monkeys with his command. Sugriva made Angada the assistant of Nila to accomplish his training under an able hand. Once the youngster Angada learnt the intricate details of his job he was assigned with a more important duty that was heavy for a Vanara of his age. He was given the task to find Sita in every possible places of South India, as it was known that Sita was hidden in some place of South, either in mainland or in the island. Angada scoured every city of South up to the seashore, Rameshwaram, to fulfill his duty. When the battalion was formed to proceed further south, Angada was made the head of the team.
Angada led the Vanara team comprising of senior monkeys like Hanuman, Jambavan very efficiently. As a prince, Angada got loyalty and respect from other monkeys. But in some cases Vanaras gave in under stress and angada charged them up as the part of his duty.
When Sita was found in Lanka, Rama wanted to find out some peaceful solution of rescuing Sita and averting the war. The messengers sent to Ravana were again led by Angada. Angada explained Ravana what was Rama`s desire and said that if he released Sita the war could be avoided. Angada tried by every means to convince Ravana, but Ravana was firm at his resolution to face a battle instead of returning Sita peacefully.
At one point of the conversation Angada placed his foot firmly on the ground and threw a challenge that if anybody in the Ravana`s court was able to uproot his foot Rama would lose the battle and return without Sita. All the Rakshasa courtier of Ravana`s army and even his son Indrajit tried to lift Angada`s left foot but nobody succeeded. Ravana was angered as he felt humiliated and started insulting Rama with abusive words.
Angada was so furious that he hit the ground with enormous force with both his hands and it caused a minor tremor in earth. All the courtiers were frightened and flew away. Ravana fell down from his throne and his crowns rolled off from his heads. Before he could put them back on his heads Angada grabbed four of those and threw them towards the direction where rama was waiting with his brother Lakshmana. When Vanaras saw the flying crowns approaching them they got panicked. But Rama knew that those were crowns of Ravana. Hanuman caught the flying crowns and placed them in front of Rama.
Ravana ordered his men to catch and kill Angada but he laughed aloud and escaped. In the great war of Ramayana, Angada killed Ravana`s son Devantak.
Vali at the time of his death requested Sugriva to take care of his son Angada and to protect him everyway, as Sugriva would have done in case of his own son. Vali stated that Angada was dearer than life to him and asked Sugriva to be his refuge in dangers and father, donor and protector to him.
Sugriva consecrated Angada as the prince of Kiskindhya and groomed him in such a manner that he was able to successfully execute any duty of higher responsibility. When Vanara task was formed for the search of Sita, Angada was assigned the post of assistant to Nila, one of the senior most deputies of Sugriva. Sugriva ordered Angada to approach the senior monkeys with his command. Sugriva made Angada the assistant of Nila to accomplish his training under an able hand. Once the youngster Angada learnt the intricate details of his job he was assigned with a more important duty that was heavy for a Vanara of his age. He was given the task to find Sita in every possible places of South India, as it was known that Sita was hidden in some place of South, either in mainland or in the island. Angada scoured every city of South up to the seashore, Rameshwaram, to fulfill his duty. When the battalion was formed to proceed further south, Angada was made the head of the team.
Angada led the Vanara team comprising of senior monkeys like Hanuman, Jambavan very efficiently. As a prince, Angada got loyalty and respect from other monkeys. But in some cases Vanaras gave in under stress and angada charged them up as the part of his duty.When Sita was found in Lanka, Rama wanted to find out some peaceful solution of rescuing Sita and averting the war. The messengers sent to Ravana were again led by Angada. Angada explained Ravana what was Rama`s desire and said that if he released Sita the war could be avoided. Angada tried by every means to convince Ravana, but Ravana was firm at his resolution to face a battle instead of returning Sita peacefully.
At one point of the conversation Angada placed his foot firmly on the ground and threw a challenge that if anybody in the Ravana`s court was able to uproot his foot Rama would lose the battle and return without Sita. All the Rakshasa courtier of Ravana`s army and even his son Indrajit tried to lift Angada`s left foot but nobody succeeded. Ravana was angered as he felt humiliated and started insulting Rama with abusive words.
Angada was so furious that he hit the ground with enormous force with both his hands and it caused a minor tremor in earth. All the courtiers were frightened and flew away. Ravana fell down from his throne and his crowns rolled off from his heads. Before he could put them back on his heads Angada grabbed four of those and threw them towards the direction where rama was waiting with his brother Lakshmana. When Vanaras saw the flying crowns approaching them they got panicked. But Rama knew that those were crowns of Ravana. Hanuman caught the flying crowns and placed them in front of Rama.
Ravana ordered his men to catch and kill Angada but he laughed aloud and escaped. In the great war of Ramayana, Angada killed Ravana`s son Devantak.
Lakshmana
Lakshmana, the prince of Ayodhya was the half brother and closest friend and companion of Rama, the great hero of the famous Hindu epic, Ramayana. In some Hindu traditions, Lakshmana is considered to be an Avatara, a part as well as secondary form of Rama`s main appearance. According to some other Hindu beliefs Lakshmana is worshipped as an Avatar of Shesha. Lakshmana was the son of King Dasharatha and Queen Sumitra.
Lakshmana was the twin brother of Shatrughna. He was born in Ayodhya. Rama was the eldest son of Daharatha, Bharata was the second, Lakshmana was the third and Shatrughna was the youngest of all four brothers. Though Lakshmana was twin to Shatrughna, he was specially attached to Rama. The duo of Rama and Lakshmana are inseparable. When Rama was married to Sita, the daughter of King Janaka of Mithila, Lakshmana married Sita`s younger sister Urmila.
In the Puranic scriptures Lakshmana is ascribed as the incarnation of Ananta Sesha, the thousand-headed Naga. Lord Vishnu rests upon the Ananta Sesha in the primordial ocean of milk (Kshirasagara). Seshanaga was the Lord of Serpents, who was incarnated in the earth in the form of Lakshmana in `Treta` yuga. In `Dwapara` Yuga, Seshanaga incarnated as Balarama. Seshanaga is considered as eternal incarnation to give company to Lord Vishnu in all his Avatara.
Lakshmana was `the perfect man` or `Mariyada Purushottam` personified by Rama. He was the symbol of loyalty, love and commitment to his elder brother who shared all the moments of his joy and sorrow equally with him. Lakshmana was an unbeatable warrior committed to virtue and the service to his elder brother. He never thought twice while joining his brother Rama in exile though he was not asked by anybody to do so, nor he coveted the throne of Ayodhya.
In the earlier part of exile when Bharata enters the forest with a large entourage to persuade Rama to return to Ayodhya, Lakshmana made mistakes by jumping to the conclusion that Bharata had some malicious intention. However Rama knew Bharata`s original desire and he pacified Lakshmana by saying that Baharata never would harm them.
Lakshmana served Rama and Sita during their exile with great reverence and devotion. Lakshmana made home for Rama and Sita, guarded them at night, used to bring food for them and accompanied them in long tiring journeys and the lonely life of forest. All he did without complaining or cares for himself.
The king of demons, Ravana planned to kidnap Sita. He sent a magical golden deer for her, which was none but magician demon Maricha, who had the motto to distract Rama and Lakshmana away from the hut so that Ravana could kidnap Sita without any hindrances. Rama went after the golden deer but sensed bad omens, danger and evil. So he asked Lakshmana to guard Sita at their home.
When Rama killed the deer, the mysterious demon Maricha cries out imitating Rama`s voice and called Sita and Lakshmana for help. Although Lakshmana knew that Rama was unvanquishable and beyond any danger but he had to go as Sita was in panic and urged Lakshmana to go to help Rama immediately. Lakshmana was unable to overcome the order of frightened Sita and had to go to search Rama. Lakshmana however used his mystical power to draw the Lakshmana Rekha or Lakshman`s limit, a perimeter line across the hut and asked Sita not to cross it. Any unwanted invader who crossed it would be killed instantly and thus the Lakshmana Rekha would serve for Sita`s safety.
When Lakshmana was gone, Ravana came in the guise of a mendicant Brahmin and asked for alms. Sita crossed the Lakshmana Rekha out of compassion to give alms to the mendicant. Thus, Ravana was able to seize Sita safely.
Rama and Lakshmana came back to the empty hut. They went out in search of Sita. Rama and Lakshmana found Sita`s jewellery as she threw it from the aerial chariot of Ravana, the Pushpakaratha. Rama asked lakshmana for verification whether he could recognize Sita`s jewellery but Lakshmana could only recognize her feet-adornment, as he never looked at the face of Sita. However finally Rama and Lakshmana was able to know who he had stolen Sita. They made friendship with Sugriva and Hanuman and set towards Lanka. Sugriva`s monkey army assisted Rama.
Rama and Lakshmana had a great fight with Ravana and his demon battalion. Lakshmana was a powerful warrior and he slew thousands of Rakshas including Atikaya and Prahasta, ravana`s chief commanders and also his son Indrajit. Lakshmana aided Rama in killing the great giant Kumbhakarna.
During the great battle to rescue Sita, a mystical weapon fired by Ravana`s son Indrajit fatally injured Lakshmana. Lakshmana felt unconscious. The vanara (monkey) physician explained that only special herb called Sanjivani could save Lakshmana`s life. Hanuman set his journey to Dronagiri Mountain, where Sanjivani was found. But after reaching there he was unable to identify the herb and brought the entire mountain instead to the battlefield. The magical herb was finally retrieved and Lakshmana was revived.
Later in the battle Lakshmana fought and killed Indrajit. Lakshmana used an unorthodox means to kill Indrajit, which was considered as a turning point of the battle. Indrajit was considered unbeatable as the king of gods, Indra supported him.
Lakshmana disobeyed Rama only once during the lifetime. Rudra, the god of time came to meet Rama. Before they started their conversation, Rudra asked for uninterrupted privacy. Rama realized that it was a difficult task to prevent anybody from entering the room and so he asked Lakshmaan to guard the door of the room. In the meantime when Lakshmana was standing as a guard the angry sage Durvasa came and wanted to meet Rama. Lakshmana politely asked him to wait for a while until the conversation was complete. Durvasa felt humiliated and was about to curse that would destroy Rama, Lakshmana and the city of Ayodhya at once. Lakshmana thought it would be better to enter the room than to have the sage`s curse. Thus only once he disobeyed Rama`s order for the sake of other`s well-being.
Lakshmana is revered for his absolute devotion and surrender to Rama. As a yonger brother he always served his elder brother Rama with a great sacrifice in all adverse condition. The life of Lakshmana is an example of self-sacrifice, duties of man to his elders and superiors and teaches the value of selflessness.
Lakshmana was the twin brother of Shatrughna. He was born in Ayodhya. Rama was the eldest son of Daharatha, Bharata was the second, Lakshmana was the third and Shatrughna was the youngest of all four brothers. Though Lakshmana was twin to Shatrughna, he was specially attached to Rama. The duo of Rama and Lakshmana are inseparable. When Rama was married to Sita, the daughter of King Janaka of Mithila, Lakshmana married Sita`s younger sister Urmila.
In the Puranic scriptures Lakshmana is ascribed as the incarnation of Ananta Sesha, the thousand-headed Naga. Lord Vishnu rests upon the Ananta Sesha in the primordial ocean of milk (Kshirasagara). Seshanaga was the Lord of Serpents, who was incarnated in the earth in the form of Lakshmana in `Treta` yuga. In `Dwapara` Yuga, Seshanaga incarnated as Balarama. Seshanaga is considered as eternal incarnation to give company to Lord Vishnu in all his Avatara.
Lakshmana was `the perfect man` or `Mariyada Purushottam` personified by Rama. He was the symbol of loyalty, love and commitment to his elder brother who shared all the moments of his joy and sorrow equally with him. Lakshmana was an unbeatable warrior committed to virtue and the service to his elder brother. He never thought twice while joining his brother Rama in exile though he was not asked by anybody to do so, nor he coveted the throne of Ayodhya.In the earlier part of exile when Bharata enters the forest with a large entourage to persuade Rama to return to Ayodhya, Lakshmana made mistakes by jumping to the conclusion that Bharata had some malicious intention. However Rama knew Bharata`s original desire and he pacified Lakshmana by saying that Baharata never would harm them.
Lakshmana served Rama and Sita during their exile with great reverence and devotion. Lakshmana made home for Rama and Sita, guarded them at night, used to bring food for them and accompanied them in long tiring journeys and the lonely life of forest. All he did without complaining or cares for himself.
The king of demons, Ravana planned to kidnap Sita. He sent a magical golden deer for her, which was none but magician demon Maricha, who had the motto to distract Rama and Lakshmana away from the hut so that Ravana could kidnap Sita without any hindrances. Rama went after the golden deer but sensed bad omens, danger and evil. So he asked Lakshmana to guard Sita at their home.
When Rama killed the deer, the mysterious demon Maricha cries out imitating Rama`s voice and called Sita and Lakshmana for help. Although Lakshmana knew that Rama was unvanquishable and beyond any danger but he had to go as Sita was in panic and urged Lakshmana to go to help Rama immediately. Lakshmana was unable to overcome the order of frightened Sita and had to go to search Rama. Lakshmana however used his mystical power to draw the Lakshmana Rekha or Lakshman`s limit, a perimeter line across the hut and asked Sita not to cross it. Any unwanted invader who crossed it would be killed instantly and thus the Lakshmana Rekha would serve for Sita`s safety.
When Lakshmana was gone, Ravana came in the guise of a mendicant Brahmin and asked for alms. Sita crossed the Lakshmana Rekha out of compassion to give alms to the mendicant. Thus, Ravana was able to seize Sita safely.Rama and Lakshmana came back to the empty hut. They went out in search of Sita. Rama and Lakshmana found Sita`s jewellery as she threw it from the aerial chariot of Ravana, the Pushpakaratha. Rama asked lakshmana for verification whether he could recognize Sita`s jewellery but Lakshmana could only recognize her feet-adornment, as he never looked at the face of Sita. However finally Rama and Lakshmana was able to know who he had stolen Sita. They made friendship with Sugriva and Hanuman and set towards Lanka. Sugriva`s monkey army assisted Rama.
Rama and Lakshmana had a great fight with Ravana and his demon battalion. Lakshmana was a powerful warrior and he slew thousands of Rakshas including Atikaya and Prahasta, ravana`s chief commanders and also his son Indrajit. Lakshmana aided Rama in killing the great giant Kumbhakarna.
During the great battle to rescue Sita, a mystical weapon fired by Ravana`s son Indrajit fatally injured Lakshmana. Lakshmana felt unconscious. The vanara (monkey) physician explained that only special herb called Sanjivani could save Lakshmana`s life. Hanuman set his journey to Dronagiri Mountain, where Sanjivani was found. But after reaching there he was unable to identify the herb and brought the entire mountain instead to the battlefield. The magical herb was finally retrieved and Lakshmana was revived.
Later in the battle Lakshmana fought and killed Indrajit. Lakshmana used an unorthodox means to kill Indrajit, which was considered as a turning point of the battle. Indrajit was considered unbeatable as the king of gods, Indra supported him.Lakshmana disobeyed Rama only once during the lifetime. Rudra, the god of time came to meet Rama. Before they started their conversation, Rudra asked for uninterrupted privacy. Rama realized that it was a difficult task to prevent anybody from entering the room and so he asked Lakshmaan to guard the door of the room. In the meantime when Lakshmana was standing as a guard the angry sage Durvasa came and wanted to meet Rama. Lakshmana politely asked him to wait for a while until the conversation was complete. Durvasa felt humiliated and was about to curse that would destroy Rama, Lakshmana and the city of Ayodhya at once. Lakshmana thought it would be better to enter the room than to have the sage`s curse. Thus only once he disobeyed Rama`s order for the sake of other`s well-being.
Lakshmana is revered for his absolute devotion and surrender to Rama. As a yonger brother he always served his elder brother Rama with a great sacrifice in all adverse condition. The life of Lakshmana is an example of self-sacrifice, duties of man to his elders and superiors and teaches the value of selflessness.
Ravana
Ravana, the king of Lanka was the principal adversary of Rama in the great epic Ramayana. Ravana was also the king of Rakshasas or demons. He was depicted with ten heads and thus earned the names like Dashamukha (ten faced), Dashagriva (ten necked) and Dashakantha (ten throats). Ravana also had ten hands, which signified greed and never-ending last.
Ravana was the son of Brahaman sage Vishrava and Kaikesi, the Daitya princess. Kaikesi`s father Sumali, the king of Daityas wanted that Kaikesi should marry a man who is the most powerful in the mortal world so that she can produce an exceptional heir. Sumali rejected all the kings, as they were less powerful than him.Kaikesi then selected sage Vishrava. As Kaikesi approached Vishrava in an auspicious moment without paying attention to his warning, their children tend towards evil. Thus Ravana was partly Daitya and partly Brahmin.
Ravana was eldest among the Vishrava`s children. Vishrava presented him a crystal necklace at his birth. The myth of his ten heads probably came from reflection in this necklace. Some say that Ravana had the mental strength of ten people and so he was said to have ten heads. Ravana had two brothers Vibhishana and Kumbhakarna and one sister called Meenakshi, who was more famous as Shurpanakha (one with sharp fingernails). Ravana was also related to the Daityas Maricha and Subahu through his mother.
Though Ravana had an aggressive and arrogant nature, he was an exemplary scholar. Ravana mastered Vedas and other holy scripts under the care of his father Vishrava. He also learnt the art and techniques of Kshatriya life. Sumali, his maternal grandfather put a watch on him so that Ravana retained the ethics of Daityas.
After Ravana had completed his initial trainings he performed a severe austerity for several years to propitiate Brahma. Lord Brahma was pleased and offered Ravana a boon. Ravana first asked for immortality but Brahma refused and asked him to pray another boon. Ravana then asked for invulnerability and supremacy from gods, heavenly spirits, demons, other serpents and wild beasts. Ravana was disdainful about mortal men and so he did not ask for any protection from human being. Brahma granted him the boons and added more power on him by bestowing him the knowledge of divine weapons and necromancy. As Ravana could win the boons, he then took charge of the great army of his grandfather Sumali and set his kingdom in Lanka.
Lanka was a very nice city created by celestial architect for Ravana`s stepbrother Kubera. Kubera, the god of wealth was another son of Vishrava and had generously shared all his wealth with Kaikesi`s children who were his half brothers. But Ravana demanded whole Lanka from him. Vishrava advised Kubera to give Lanka to Ravana as he became unbeatable. When Ravana took over Lanka, he was not at all a philanthropist ruler. But gradually Lanka flourished under Ravana`s rule. It is believed that poorest of houses in Lanka had gold vessels to eat and drink off and hunger was unknown to the dwellers of Lanka.
Following his conquest of Lanka, Ravana went to appease Lord Shiva at his abode in Kailash. Unknowingly and whimsically Ravana attempted to uproot the mountain Kailash. Shiva was annoyed by Ravana`s adamant nature and pressed his little toe under the mountain and pinned him firmly. Ravana cried out in pain so loudly that whole world shook in earthquake. Shiva`s ganas informed Ravana about his misdeed and being repentant Ravana started praising Shiva by composing and singing songs. He continued to appease Shiva until Shiva was satisfied and made him free from the bondage. Shiva was so impressed by Ravana`s bravery and devotion that he gifted him a powerful sword known as Chandrahas (moon blade). Ravana became a life long devotee of Lord Shiva. Ravana was famous for his dance worship, which is called `Shiva Tandava Stotra`. Shiva was pleased by his dance and named him as Ravana, which means `one who roars terrifyingly`.
Ravana`s power was undoubtedly supreme and he continued through series of campaigns, conquering human, celestials and other demons. He conquered the netherworld completely and left his brother Ahiravana as a king. Ravana made alliance with Nivatakavachas and Kalakeyas, the two clans that could not be subdued and thus he dominated all the Asuras of the three worlds. He also won over several human kingdoms and performed suitable sacrifices and was crowned as emperor.
Once Kubera was annoyed with Ravana for his cruelty and greed and objurgated him. Ravana in turn proceeded to heavens fighting and defeating the gods and singled out his brother Kubera for a particular humiliation. Finally Ravana was able to gain command over the gods, celestials and the serpent races.
Ravana`s family was large and grand. He had many wives and seven sons namely Indrajit, Prahasta, Atikaya, Akshyakumara, Devantaka, Narantaka, Trishira. His paternal grandfather was Pulastya, son of Brahma. Malyavan was his maternal grandfather, Tataka his maternal grandmother and maricha was the maternal uncle of Ravana. Malyavan was against the war with Rama.
Ravana is also known for his virility, lust and aggressiveness for women. Ravana had several wives and he also maintained a big `Harem`, where he kept all the women captured from the conquest in the war. Many of the women accepted him for his masculine charisma, power and knowledge in all directions. Mandodari was his principal wife, who was the daughter of Mayasura and an apsara Hema. Mandodari was famous for her wisdom and grace as well as her beauty and chastity. Mandodari is often compared with Sita for her beauty.
Ravana used to force himself upon the women who prevented his advances. There are two stories regarding it. Vedavati was a beautiful lady who was performing penance with the intention of having Lord Vishnu as her husband. Her beauty enhanced Ravana. Vedavati resisted Ravana`s advance but Ravana did not stop. Vedavati foretold that she would return to the mortal world as the cause of death of Ravana. After that she sacrificed her life in a funeral pyre. She was then born as Ravana and Mandodari`s first child. Ravana was preached before his marriage that their first child would cause his death. So after his first child was born, he sent Subahu to kill the child. Subahu was unable to kill the beautiful baby girl and lied to Ravana that he has killed her. The baby was left and found by King Janaka, who raised her up. She was married to Rama, Vishnu`s incarnation and was the cause of Ravana`s defeat.
The second story is about Ravana`s encounter with apsara Rambha. He also tried to capture Rambha, who was engaged with Kubera`s son. She pleaded to Ravana that she was like his daughter but Ravana was not discouraged. Kubera`s son was so angered that he cursed him stating that if he forced himself upon any woman, his ten heads would fall off immediately. This curse helped to protect Sita`s chastity when she was in captivity of Ravana for about a year.
Ravana`s role in Ramayana was as an antagonist and villain but he had many humble qualities. He gathered knowledge about sacred scriptures, medicines and sorcery. Ravana was great devotee of Shiva who composed the Shiva Tandava Stotra. Legends also say that Ravana performed the puja for Kshatriya Rama before the war between Rama and himself as there was no other Brahmin in Lanka.
There were occasions when Ravana behaved humbly. Once Ravana got himself tied with the tail of mighty Vanara (monkey) king Vali. Vali flew in different directions while performing meditation being completely unaware of Ravana`s presence. When he went back to his palace, he could see Ravana and made him free. The other story is about Ravana`s encounter with Karthavirya Arjun or Sahastra Arjun (having thousand hands). Sahastra Arjuna was taking bath in the river Narmada with his wives, where Ravana also was bathing. Arjuna`s wives asked himself to stop the water of Narmada and he did so. Hence the flow of water stopped at the place where Ravana was bathing. This made him angry and he challenged Karthavirya Arjuna in a battle. Ravana lost the fight and Karthavirya Arjuna imprisoned him. Ravana was only released at his grandfather`s request.
In Bhagavata Purana, Ravana and his brother Kumbhakarna were mentioned as the incarnations of Jaya and Vijaya, the two gatekeepers of Vaikuntha, abode of Vishnu.
Ravana was the son of Brahaman sage Vishrava and Kaikesi, the Daitya princess. Kaikesi`s father Sumali, the king of Daityas wanted that Kaikesi should marry a man who is the most powerful in the mortal world so that she can produce an exceptional heir. Sumali rejected all the kings, as they were less powerful than him.Kaikesi then selected sage Vishrava. As Kaikesi approached Vishrava in an auspicious moment without paying attention to his warning, their children tend towards evil. Thus Ravana was partly Daitya and partly Brahmin.
Ravana was eldest among the Vishrava`s children. Vishrava presented him a crystal necklace at his birth. The myth of his ten heads probably came from reflection in this necklace. Some say that Ravana had the mental strength of ten people and so he was said to have ten heads. Ravana had two brothers Vibhishana and Kumbhakarna and one sister called Meenakshi, who was more famous as Shurpanakha (one with sharp fingernails). Ravana was also related to the Daityas Maricha and Subahu through his mother.
Though Ravana had an aggressive and arrogant nature, he was an exemplary scholar. Ravana mastered Vedas and other holy scripts under the care of his father Vishrava. He also learnt the art and techniques of Kshatriya life. Sumali, his maternal grandfather put a watch on him so that Ravana retained the ethics of Daityas.After Ravana had completed his initial trainings he performed a severe austerity for several years to propitiate Brahma. Lord Brahma was pleased and offered Ravana a boon. Ravana first asked for immortality but Brahma refused and asked him to pray another boon. Ravana then asked for invulnerability and supremacy from gods, heavenly spirits, demons, other serpents and wild beasts. Ravana was disdainful about mortal men and so he did not ask for any protection from human being. Brahma granted him the boons and added more power on him by bestowing him the knowledge of divine weapons and necromancy. As Ravana could win the boons, he then took charge of the great army of his grandfather Sumali and set his kingdom in Lanka.
Lanka was a very nice city created by celestial architect for Ravana`s stepbrother Kubera. Kubera, the god of wealth was another son of Vishrava and had generously shared all his wealth with Kaikesi`s children who were his half brothers. But Ravana demanded whole Lanka from him. Vishrava advised Kubera to give Lanka to Ravana as he became unbeatable. When Ravana took over Lanka, he was not at all a philanthropist ruler. But gradually Lanka flourished under Ravana`s rule. It is believed that poorest of houses in Lanka had gold vessels to eat and drink off and hunger was unknown to the dwellers of Lanka.
Following his conquest of Lanka, Ravana went to appease Lord Shiva at his abode in Kailash. Unknowingly and whimsically Ravana attempted to uproot the mountain Kailash. Shiva was annoyed by Ravana`s adamant nature and pressed his little toe under the mountain and pinned him firmly. Ravana cried out in pain so loudly that whole world shook in earthquake. Shiva`s ganas informed Ravana about his misdeed and being repentant Ravana started praising Shiva by composing and singing songs. He continued to appease Shiva until Shiva was satisfied and made him free from the bondage. Shiva was so impressed by Ravana`s bravery and devotion that he gifted him a powerful sword known as Chandrahas (moon blade). Ravana became a life long devotee of Lord Shiva. Ravana was famous for his dance worship, which is called `Shiva Tandava Stotra`. Shiva was pleased by his dance and named him as Ravana, which means `one who roars terrifyingly`.
Ravana`s power was undoubtedly supreme and he continued through series of campaigns, conquering human, celestials and other demons. He conquered the netherworld completely and left his brother Ahiravana as a king. Ravana made alliance with Nivatakavachas and Kalakeyas, the two clans that could not be subdued and thus he dominated all the Asuras of the three worlds. He also won over several human kingdoms and performed suitable sacrifices and was crowned as emperor.
Once Kubera was annoyed with Ravana for his cruelty and greed and objurgated him. Ravana in turn proceeded to heavens fighting and defeating the gods and singled out his brother Kubera for a particular humiliation. Finally Ravana was able to gain command over the gods, celestials and the serpent races.
Ravana`s family was large and grand. He had many wives and seven sons namely Indrajit, Prahasta, Atikaya, Akshyakumara, Devantaka, Narantaka, Trishira. His paternal grandfather was Pulastya, son of Brahma. Malyavan was his maternal grandfather, Tataka his maternal grandmother and maricha was the maternal uncle of Ravana. Malyavan was against the war with Rama.
Ravana is also known for his virility, lust and aggressiveness for women. Ravana had several wives and he also maintained a big `Harem`, where he kept all the women captured from the conquest in the war. Many of the women accepted him for his masculine charisma, power and knowledge in all directions. Mandodari was his principal wife, who was the daughter of Mayasura and an apsara Hema. Mandodari was famous for her wisdom and grace as well as her beauty and chastity. Mandodari is often compared with Sita for her beauty.
Ravana used to force himself upon the women who prevented his advances. There are two stories regarding it. Vedavati was a beautiful lady who was performing penance with the intention of having Lord Vishnu as her husband. Her beauty enhanced Ravana. Vedavati resisted Ravana`s advance but Ravana did not stop. Vedavati foretold that she would return to the mortal world as the cause of death of Ravana. After that she sacrificed her life in a funeral pyre. She was then born as Ravana and Mandodari`s first child. Ravana was preached before his marriage that their first child would cause his death. So after his first child was born, he sent Subahu to kill the child. Subahu was unable to kill the beautiful baby girl and lied to Ravana that he has killed her. The baby was left and found by King Janaka, who raised her up. She was married to Rama, Vishnu`s incarnation and was the cause of Ravana`s defeat.
The second story is about Ravana`s encounter with apsara Rambha. He also tried to capture Rambha, who was engaged with Kubera`s son. She pleaded to Ravana that she was like his daughter but Ravana was not discouraged. Kubera`s son was so angered that he cursed him stating that if he forced himself upon any woman, his ten heads would fall off immediately. This curse helped to protect Sita`s chastity when she was in captivity of Ravana for about a year.
Ravana`s role in Ramayana was as an antagonist and villain but he had many humble qualities. He gathered knowledge about sacred scriptures, medicines and sorcery. Ravana was great devotee of Shiva who composed the Shiva Tandava Stotra. Legends also say that Ravana performed the puja for Kshatriya Rama before the war between Rama and himself as there was no other Brahmin in Lanka.
There were occasions when Ravana behaved humbly. Once Ravana got himself tied with the tail of mighty Vanara (monkey) king Vali. Vali flew in different directions while performing meditation being completely unaware of Ravana`s presence. When he went back to his palace, he could see Ravana and made him free. The other story is about Ravana`s encounter with Karthavirya Arjun or Sahastra Arjun (having thousand hands). Sahastra Arjuna was taking bath in the river Narmada with his wives, where Ravana also was bathing. Arjuna`s wives asked himself to stop the water of Narmada and he did so. Hence the flow of water stopped at the place where Ravana was bathing. This made him angry and he challenged Karthavirya Arjuna in a battle. Ravana lost the fight and Karthavirya Arjuna imprisoned him. Ravana was only released at his grandfather`s request.
In Bhagavata Purana, Ravana and his brother Kumbhakarna were mentioned as the incarnations of Jaya and Vijaya, the two gatekeepers of Vaikuntha, abode of Vishnu.
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