5. The Fall of Vali and the Path to Redemption
With a garland around his neck, Sugriva advanced towards Kiskindhya, accompanied by Lakshmana. He was followed by Rama, armed with his bow, along with Hanuman and others. They had to pass through a dense forest, and Rama became curious to know the history of that place.
The Legend of the Ashram
Sugriva shared, “Once upon a time, an Ashram existed here, surrounded by trees that yielded a variety of sweet fruits and fragrant flowers. It was founded by a sage named Saptajana. After he departed to heaven, nobody could enter this area for a long time—not even birds or beasts. Those who ventured in never returned. The sounds of nymphs’ songs and their rhythmic dances echoed from the area, which gradually turned into a thick forest. The air was filled with delightful fragrances, and smoke could be seen curling up from the treetops, indicating that invisible beings were performing some rites within the forest.”
Facing Vali
Upon arriving at Kiskindhya, all but Sugriva hid behind some trees. Sugriva stepped forward and called out to Vali. He then reminded Rama of his promise to act decisively.
“Now that you have donned a garland, I will have no difficulty distinguishing you from Vali. Have no doubt about my motives. I will kill Vali without fail; I have never made a false promise, and I won’t start now. Go and challenge Vali to a fight,” Rama assured him. Thus encouraged, Sugriva let out a powerful shout that echoed in Vali’s palace and reverberated across the mountains. Birds scattered, and animals fled from the nearby forests.
Vali, lying in his bed, was furious at Sugriva’s audacity. He prepared to confront him but was stopped by his wife, Tara.
Tara’s Caution
“Tara said, ‘You must not respond to Sugriva’s challenge at this hour. Wait until morning; it is a question of prudence. Sugriva, who was once defeated, is now back with the help of someone stronger. I heard from Angada that Rama and Lakshmana, the sons of King Dasharatha, are camping at Mount Rushyamuk. I fear Sugriva has befriended them. Rama is a great warrior; it was he who killed Viradha, Khara, Dushana, and Kayandha.’”
After a pause, Tara continued, “It would be wiser to compromise with Sugriva rather than incur Rama’s wrath. Sugriva is your own brother; you wouldn’t lose anything by offering him his position as crown prince.”
However, Vali dismissed Tara’s advice. “You speak nonsense. How can I talk of compromise when Sugriva is challenging me? It is better to die than bow to such audacity. You are afraid of Rama, but he has no business in our matters. I’ll defeat Sugriva easily; I won’t kill him but will teach him a lesson.”
With no other option, Tara reluctantly allowed Vali to proceed, reciting hymns for his safety before he left.
The Battle
Soon, Vali confronted Sugriva, and the two were locked in a fierce wrestle. Sugriva uprooted a tree and attacked Vali, putting him on the defensive for a time. However, Vali regained his strength and fought back with greater determination. As the fight progressed, Sugriva began to weaken.
Seeing Sugriva’s plight, Rama didn’t hesitate and aimed at Vali, shooting an arrow that pierced Vali’s chest. Stunned, Vali staggered but did not instantly die due to a protective necklace given to him by Indra. He looked towards Rama and said:
The Encounter with Vali
“Rama! You are the son of a revered king and known for your character and courage. Yet, you shot me while I was engaged in battle. Is this proof of your greatness? I thought you embodied virtues like restraint and truthfulness. Despite Tara’s warnings, I accepted Sugriva’s challenge, not knowing you would resort to such treachery.”
Vali continued, “I have never wronged you or your kingdom. I would have helped you in your quest; yet here you are, hiding and attacking a brother.”
Rama responded, “You accuse me without understanding my purpose. I come from the noble Ikshaku dynasty, where the well-being of the just is of utmost importance. You broke the fundamental code of dharma by taking your brother’s wife; thus, you deserve this fate. My relationship with Sugriva mirrors that with Lakshmana. I acted to relieve his suffering. Killing you from a hiding may seem low, but hunters often do not kill for sport; they do what they must.”
Vali’s Final Wishes
As Vali felt his strength waning, he voiced his concerns. “I’m not sorry to die, nor am I worried about Tara or my kingdom. However, I am deeply concerned for Angada. He cherished me and will be devastated. Please take care of him and ensure Tara is not mistreated by Sugriva.”
Rama assured Vali that his requests would be honored, and soon Vali fainted.
Tara’s Grief
When Tara learned of the tragedy, she was overwhelmed with sorrow and rushed to Vali’s side along with Angada. Some well-wishers advised her to protect herself and her son, suggesting she perform the necessary rites for Angada to succeed to the throne.
However, Tara replied, “I care not for my son, myself, or the kingdom. What value do these have if my husband is dead? I must go to him.”
Upon reaching Vali, surrounded by Rama, Lakshmana, and Sugriva, she broke down in grief. Hanuman consoled her, saying, “We all must face death eventually; mourning serves no purpose either for the dead or for the mourner. Focus on raising Angada as a worthy successor for Vali.”
Tara shook her head, “I can think of nothing but joining Vali in death,” she lamented.
