A Kingdom Divided
The Choice Between Pride and Dharma
After Hanuman's fierce assault on Lanka, Ravana experienced a rare moment of dread. He gathered his ministers and generals to plan the next move. While the court, consumed by pride, urged total war, one dissenting voice emerged—that of his younger brother, Vibhishana.
A Plea for Righteousness
Vibhishana, steadfast in righteousness, foresaw his brother's downfall and urged Ravana to prevent the looming disaster.
Vibhishana's Argument
"Brother, your actions are gravely unjust," Vibhishana warned. "Taking another's wife defies all principles of dharma. Rama is no ordinary man; one of his envoys reduced our city to ashes. Think of the might of his entire army! The righteous choice is evident—restore Sita respectfully, seek his pardon, and protect our kingdom and lineage from ruin."
Ravana's Court Responds
The other ministers, Indrajit among them, scoffed at Vibhishana’s warning. "Why fear two mortal ascetics and their monkey horde?" they jeered. "You’re spineless, Vibhishana! Ravana rules the three worlds. Let us strike them down!" Their arrogant boasts only fueled Ravana’s own overconfidence.
The Breaking Point
Disregarding his brother's advice, Ravana openly shamed Vibhishana. This ultimate affront shattered their familial ties, compelling Vibhishana to make a decision that altered the war's fate.
Step 1: The Final Plea
In a final plea, Vibhishana knelt before Ravana. "I speak not out of fear but out of love for you and our kin! I beg you, heed wisdom before it's too late!"
Refuge in Dharma
Vibhishana, with his four trusted ministers, soared through the skies and arrived at Rama's camp, seeking refuge. His presence sparked unease, as many Vanara chiefs doubted his intentions.
Sugriva's Suspicion
"Lord Rama, this is undoubtedly a trap," argued Sugriva, the Vanara king. "He is the enemy's brother, sent to deceive us and uncover our plans. We cannot afford to trust him. He must be captured or eliminated." Most of the other leaders supported this cautious and pragmatic stance.
Rama's Vow
But Rama, upholding Dharma, silenced their protests. "My duty is to protect anyone seeking refuge, even Ravana himself," he proclaimed. "Vibhishana has forsaken his unrighteous brother for the path of virtue. He is no spy but a true devotee. We shall embrace him." Thus, Rama accepted Vibhishana and ceremonially anointed him as Lanka’s future king, cementing their bond.