19. The Path to Sita’s Rescue and the Fall of Ravana
Vibhishana silenced the boasting demons with a gesture, dismissing their proclamations of invincibility. He then addressed Ravana, saying, “Sages have counseled that one should resort to force only when all other means have failed. You are flaunting your strength without considering the recent encounter with Hanuman. How did he create such chaos alone? Clearly, he possesses the blessings of Providence. Moreover, we are hardly justified in our treatment of Rama. It is argued that Sita Devi was kidnapped because Rama killed some of our demon heroes like Khara and Dushana. However, we must remember that Rama acted in self-defense. By seizing Sita Devi, we have committed a grave injustice. I propose we surrender her to Rama before he launches an attack on Lanka. Although this may be distasteful, it is the only way to avert further calamity. Let pride and obstinacy not lead to our destruction.”
Ravana’s Defiance
Rather than heed Vibhishana’s counsel, Ravana became enraged. “I fear no one! Even with the support of Indra, Rama will not withstand my might!” he proclaimed. The following day, Ravana summoned a council of his most trusted ministers and military leaders, including Vibhishana, Shuka, and Prahastha. Armed demon soldiers guarded the conference hall, where an ominous silence prevailed as everyone awaited their king’s decision.
Plans of Defense
Taking his place on a bejeweled podium, Ravana addressed his generals. “General, ensure that we fortify the city. Employ our finest soldiers for this task.” Prahastha promptly replied, “It’s done, my lord. What more is needed?” Ravana, eyeing his advisers, continued, “I have always valued your wisdom in times of crisis. We all know the gravity of our current predicament, though Kumbhakarna can be brought up to speed as he has just awakened after six months.”
The Dilemma of Sita
Ravana then turned to Kumbhakarna. “I have kidnapped Sita, the wife of Rama. I am infatuated with her but anxious that she will not agree to marry me. She may hope for Rama’s rescue before the year is up. I doubt Rama possesses the means to cross the sea, but if he does, what should we do? His envoy, Hanuman, has already caused us considerable distress. They are strategizing how to reach Lanka. Can you defeat them when they come?”
Kumbhakarna’s Assurance
Kumbhakarna spoke harshly, “You should have considered the consequences before your ill-advised act of kidnapping Sita. It is too late for regrets now, but rest assured, I will vanquish your enemy. The Vanaras will flee at the sight of me with my mace. Even the gods fear me; I will eliminate Rama, Lakshmana, and their lot.” Ravana appeared pleased but hesitant.
The Curse of Force
Mahaparshwa remarked, “If you desire to marry Sita, why wait? If she refuses, force her! With champions like Kumbhakarna and Indrajit at your side, who can oppose you?” Ravana responded, “The reason I cannot force Sita is that years ago, I wronged a celestial nymph. The god cursed me, warning that if I violated the modesty of another woman, I would meet my demise. Rama is unaware of our strength and is racing towards his doom.”
The Warning Ignored
Vibhishana interjected, “O King, I must reiterate that Sita Devi brings only death. Surrender her to Ramachandra immediately. Your warriors are no match for him.” Prahastha dismissed Vibhishana’s warnings, asserting Ravana’s superiority over Ramachandra. Indrajit sneered, “You shame our lineage with your fear! I’ve defeated Indra; how can two humans and a band of Vanaras outmatch me?”
Vibhishana’s Defiance
“You’re too young to weigh in on such matters,” warned Vibhishana. “Your arrogance will spell doom for our race. You may conquer the gods, but Ramachandra is another story. The only sensible action is to return Sita to Ramachandra without delay.” Infuriated, Ravana retorted, “You are fortunate I spare you as my brother. Otherwise, your head would roll!”
The Departure
Vibhishana, unable to endure more, responded, “I will not remain silent while you destroy us with your pride. I leave Lanka and her fate in your hands.” Seizing his mace, he departed instantly, followed by four loyal companions. Together, they flew across the sea to Ramachandra’s camp.
A Suspicious Welcome
Some Vanaras noticed them and reported to Sugriva, who took them for spies and expressed his concerns. They readied themselves for an attack. When Vibhishana and his companions hovered above Rama’s camp, he declared, “I am Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana, who has wronged Sita Devi. I appeal for refuge in Ramachandra’s camp.”
A Cautious Approach
Sugriva hurried to inform Rama, stating, “Vibhishana has sought refuge, but he is still a demon and Ravana’s brother. We cannot trust him.” Rama listened earnestly and turned to his allies. Angada and others expressed doubts, asserting the need for caution. Hanuman, however, proposed a different approach, suggesting they welcome Vibhishana rather than condemn him without understanding his motivations. “He may desire to ally with us against Ravana,” Hanuman said.
