Ravana is often remembered as a villain who kidnapped Sita and was eventually killed by Lord Rama, the demon king of Lanka and the main opponent in the Ramayana. But this familiar story is a complex personality with attractive qualities beyond the story. Ravan was not just a powerful king but a scholar, musician and a devotee of Lord Shiva.
Here are 10 less than Ravana’s 10 lesser and interesting facts that reveal his multidimensional character:-
1. Ravana was a great scholar
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Ravana was a master of the Vedas and Upanishads. He was well aware of pure scripture, astrology and medicine, making him one of the most learned men of his time.
2. Author of Shiva Tandav Stotram
A low-term fact is that Ravana was a great devotee of Lord Shiva and is credited with the creation of a powerful Shiva Tandava Stotram, which is still chanting by the devotees.
3. His 10 heads were a symbol of knowledge
The 10 heads of Ravana were not only physical, but symbolized their vast knowledge of six scriptures and four Vedas. They also represent their multidimensional personality.
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4. Ravana was a skilled veena player
Ravan was not only a scholar, but also a talented musician. He was an expert in playing Veena and contributed significantly to Indian classical music.
5. He was the ruler of a Golden Kingdom
Lanka, the kingdom of Ravana, was known as Son Kilanka (Goldenna). According to legends, this divine architect was built by Lord Vishwakarma, and was one of the most rich empires of his time.
6. Ravana had a divine dynasty
Ravana was born to the sage Vishwava and KaiCC, making him half-Brahmin and half-donation. This unique dynasty contributed to his extraordinary abilities and knowledge.
7. Ravana demonstrated intensive penance (meditation)
To gain boon and powers, Ravana did serious penance to Lord Shiva. His deep devotion impressed Shiva, who gave him immense power and invitation.
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8. Ravana was a skilled Ayurvedic healer
Ravana was considered the master of Ayurveda. Ancient texts have described their medical texts, including knowledge of herbs and remedies that made him a great physician.
9. Ravana’s daughter was Mandodari
While Mandodari is often remembered as Ravana’s wife, some regional stories describe her as their daughter in a symbolic sense. He is considered one of the Panchkanya (five revered women) in the Hindu tradition.
10. Ravana is worshiped in some parts of India
Surprisingly, Ravana is worshiped in some places in some places in Mandsaur (Madhya Pradesh), Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where he is revered as a scholar ruler and devotee of Shiva.
Ravana was much more than the villain of Ramayana. He was a scholar, musician, ruler and devotee who has many lessons in his life. While his ego and desires caused his decline, his intellect, devotion and skills continue to fascinate people even today. These lesser-known facts remind us that history and mythology are full of multi-dimensional characters, each with qualities and flaws.
(This article means only for your general information. Zee News does not pledge for its accuracy or credibility.)