CharacterRakshasa
Vibhishana: FAQ & Sources
विभीषणRakshasa prince; brother of Ravana; later king of Lanka.
Vibhishana is the righteous younger brother of Ravana who urged him to return Sita. Driven out of Lanka, he took refuge with Rama, revealed Lanka's secrets in the war, and was crowned its king. He is one of the seven chiranjivis, and legend links him with the Srirangam temple.
RoleRakshasa prince; brother of Ravana; later king of Lanka
SiblingsRavana, Kumbhakarna
AllegianceLanka; ally of Rama
Appears inRamayana
Frequently asked questions
Who was Vibhishana?
The younger brother of Ravana who joined Rama and became king of Lanka after the war.
Why did Vibhishana leave Ravana?
He urged Ravana to return Sita; Ravana insulted him and drove him out.
Is Vibhishana a chiranjivi?
Yes, he is counted among the seven chiranjivis, the long-lived ones.
Who was Vibhishana's wife?
Sarama, who comforted Sita in Lanka.
Sources
- Valmiki Ramayana, Sundara and Yuddha Kandas (esp. Yuddha 17-19)
- Uttara Kanda (birth and boons)
- Srirangam temple tradition
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