Character
Mandodari: FAQ & Sources
मंदोदरीQueen of Lanka; wife of Ravana. Also called Chief queen of Lanka | One of the panchakanya | Mother of Indrajit.
Mandodari was the wise and virtuous queen of Lanka and wife of Ravana, who repeatedly counselled him to return Sita and avoid war. Counted among the panchakanya, the five ideal women.
Frequently asked questions
Who was Mandodari?
The chief queen of Lanka, wife of Ravana and mother of Indrajit, renowned for her beauty, wisdom and virtue.
What did Mandodari advise Ravana?
She repeatedly urged him to return Sita to Rama and avoid the war that would destroy Lanka, but he would not listen.
Why is Mandodari one of the panchakanya?
For her unwavering virtue; the five ideal women (Ahalya, Draupadi, Sita/Tara, Mandodari, Kunti) are invoked to dispel sin.
Whose daughter was Mandodari?
The daughter of Maya, the celestial architect of the asuras.
Who was Mandodari's son?
Indrajit (Meghnad), Ravana's mighty warrior son.
Sources
- Valmiki Ramayana, Yuddha Kanda
- Tulsidas, Ramcharitmanas
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