📖 Lanka Kand Shree Ramcharitmanas by Goswami Tulsidas — Vibhishan's Surrender, Bridge Building, Kumbhakarna, Meghnad & Ravana's Fall, Reunion with Sita

Glory to Shree Rama, the treasury of incomparable beauty, invincible and of immeasurable greatness! He is the ocean of mercy, the abode of bliss, and the wish-fulfilling tree (Kalpataru) for all who take refuge in Him.

Then the entire army became favorably disposed. The monkeys began climbing mountains and forests. On the seashore stood a beautiful mountain, upon which they playfully leapt and ascended.

O brother, listen to the narrative of Lanka Kand! One who hears it by Shree Hari's grace is truly most fortunate. Vibhishan, Ravana's brother, came as an emissary, and the Lord was pleased to hear his younger brother's words.

Those who hear this beautiful narrative — the defeat of Lanka's lord Ravana — attain boundless joy. The story of Shree Rama is the deliverer in this age of Kali.

Shree Rama's grace, His own compassion, and His contentment in His servants' welfare — this is Shree Rama's divine nature. Worship His sacred grace and abandon your own faults.

O Lord, now bestow Your mercy and commence this sacred creation. Deliberate with grace for the happiness of Your servants. The narrative of Lanka Kand is supremely holy — listen to it with an attentive and delighted mind.

Worship the compassionate Shree Ramachandra, who destroys the terrible fear of worldly existence. His eyes are like fresh lotuses, His face is lotus-like, His hands are lotus-like, and His feet glow with the rosy tint of lotuses.

I salute Shree Rama, Lakshmana, and Vaidehi (Sita), who are dearest to Tulsidas. O Shree Rama, there is great love for Your divine form — through love alone, all things are manifested.

All the news reached Ravana — that the monkeys had come to rescue Sita. He summoned all his ministers to the assembly, and the ten-headed one (Dashakandhar) began deliberations.

Vibhishan spoke words of firm righteousness — O Lord, worship the compassionate Lord Shree Rama! Abandon enmity and take refuge at the feet of Lord Rama, our true master.

Again and again Vibhishan pleaded, but the foolish Ravana would not listen. The Lord Shree Rama is ever compassionate toward those who seek refuge — He mercifully protects all.

Then Ravana summoned Vibhishan and said — You simpleton devoid of intellect and strength! Listen to my teaching, O fool — defeat never comes without battle, know this well!

Having spoken thus with harsh words, Ravana insulted Vibhishan, who was devoted to dharma. Vibhishan then left Lanka and went to the Lord's refuge, his mind completely detached from worldly ties.

When Vibhishan took refuge, the Lord immediately accepted him and showed His eternal grace to all. Then Shree Rama smiled and said — I am the refuge-giver for all who seek shelter.

Shree Rama said — Listen, friend, I tell you My nature: I always hold affection for My devotees. One who harbors no fault toward anyone, even in dreams — when such a soul comes to My shelter, he adorns Me.

The entire story was told to Sugriva. Vibhishan met Shree Rama just as Bharata would meet his brother. The Lord worshipped him, offered him a seat, and right then and there crowned Vibhishan as the king of Lanka.

The Lord, who is ever compassionate toward the surrendered, the ocean of mercy, the Supreme Being — accepted Vibhishan and bestowed upon him the kingdom of Lanka.

Then Vibhishan, the Lord of Lanka, composed himself with patience and became deeply content and serene. Having received the Lord's immeasurable gift of fearlessness, he began speaking words of wisdom and welfare.

Falling at the Lord's feet and clasping them, Vibhishan told his name. Shree Raghunayak, the treasure of compassion, then gave rest and solace to all.

Vibhishan narrated the entire account — Lanka's mighty fortress and Ravana's powerful army. The Lord, considering strength and strategy, declared — I shall destroy Ravana decisively in battle.

Vibhishan, Ravana's own brother, demonstrated holy and righteous character. Abandoning unrighteousness and devoting himself to the Lord's feet, he attained the position that the sinful lord of Lanka (Ravana) had held.

In this manner, Shree Rama counseled everyone and graciously summoned all the monkeys. Now devise a strategy for war — how shall we cross this ocean to Lanka?

On the shore of the ocean, the Lord made repeated supplications. Shree Rama, the treasure of mercy, said — O Ocean, listen and grant us safe passage for the welfare of all.

O Lord, Neel and Nal are two brothers who received a sage's blessing in childhood. By their touch, even heavy mountains will float upon the sea — such is the power of Your divine glory.

Hearing this, the monkeys and bears became elated. All joined their palms, and the gods bowed their heads. By the Lord's divine power, the water became like solid ground, and the entire monkey army crossed over.

Then with heart and soul they began building the bridge. Mountains and trees were uprooted and carried. Neel and Nal, the supremely skilled monkey engineers, effortlessly constructed the bridge over the water.

The ingenious Neel and Nal, meditating upon Shree Rama's glory in their hearts, constructed the bridge. It stretched ten yojanas wide — a boundless bridge was built across the middle of the ocean.

After the bridge was built, the monkeys crossed over and touched the lotus feet of Lord Raghupati. The Lord crossed to the other shore of the ocean — O Uma, nothing is impossible for the Lord!

By Shree Rama's grace and the army's strength, a bridge was built over the boundless ocean. Having crossed over, all became joyful and clapped their hands in celebration.

When the bridge was completed, moonlight-like radiance spread everywhere. The mighty monkeys continued working ceaselessly. Seeing the bridge, the gods showered flowers from heaven — how can one describe that priceless splendor!

The glory of Shree Rama is immeasurable! A bridge was constructed over the ocean. The entire monkey army crossed over to the other side, while thunderous roars resounded through the skies.

All the great monkeys and bears crossed over. The Lord protected them in every way. Seeing auspicious omens, they rushed toward Lanka — the hearts of the entire army swelled with joy and delight.

Camp was established on Mount Subela, and the entire army was provided with comfort and provisions. The Lord summoned Angad and sent him as an envoy — go and try to reason with Ravana.

Angad said — Ravana, be warned! There is no protector equal to Lord Shree Raghupati. O lord, think wisely and return Mother Sita — otherwise your Lanka shall be devastated by force and wit.

Hearing Angad's words, the ten-headed Ravana grew furious and agitated. He rushed to strike the monkey, but Angad remained fearless and addressed everyone boldly.

Angad declared — Listen, O King Ravana! You are the greatest among sinners. Shree Rama's servants — these monkeys and bears — can vanquish even Death himself, for the compassionate Lord empowers them so.

The wise ambassador Angad displayed his mighty strength to all. Ravana's entire court was stunned — beholding this incomparably powerful monkey warrior.

Angad said — Listen, O ten-headed one! The Lord does not bestow His grace upon you. O witless fool, hear of Shree Rama's arrows — they shall render you and all your forces to ruin.

Ravana could not even lift Angad's foot — so tremendously powerful was that monkey prince. The envoy returned without success — now only Shree Rama's arrows would be the final proof.

Angad returned and came to the Lord, narrating the entire account. The Lord, the divine Archer, smiled and said — Now war shall come; hold this firmly in your hearts.

Ravana heeded no one's counsel. Angad reported the full story. Shree Rama's army immediately marched to the foot of Lanka's fortress, sounding triumphant drums.

The demon army was summoned in full four divisions. Ravana rose with a thundering roar that covered the sky. Drums, war-horns, trumpets, and conch-shells blared — the Lord declared, now there is no turning back.

The terrible war-drums sounded. The monkey forces roared — bears and monkeys alike. Beneath Lanka's fortress stood the vast army, and a tremendous war-cry shook the battlefield.

The monkeys and bears, invoking Shree Rama's name, roared and challenged the enemy, shedding blood in torrents. Seeing the demon army, the monkeys charged; fierce bears with terrifying forms rose in fury.

Warriors fall and die on every side — the battlefield is immensely terrible and vast. Monkeys, bears, and demons rise and fall again and again in relentless combat.

Lord Raghuraja spoke to Lakshmana — Lead the army alongside Sugriva! Neel, Nal, and Angad have bodies hard as thunderbolts — these war-steadfast heroes can conquer even Death in battle.

The monkey army, empowered by Shree Rama's glory, crushes the demons as they come. Warriors fall, cry out, and perish — the monkeys have become like Death incarnate.

Shree Rama's valiant warriors slay the demons in a rage on the battlefield; the demons are utterly distressed by their transgressions. The monkey king Sugriva, supremely powerful, is slaying demons and advancing forward.

Countless demons are being slain on the battlefield; the monkey forces are dealing blow after blow. Hearing all this, Ravana then rose up like an incarnation of Death himself.

Ravana's wrath grew exceedingly fierce — the eyes of all ten heads turned blood-red. With a mighty roar he gathered his entire force and led the terrible army forward single-handedly.

Hanuman, Angad, Neel, Nal, Sugriva, and the other monkeys and bears — all have become like Death-incarnate, destroying demons with every weapon and battle formation at their command.

The battle was fierce and exceedingly intense — the monkey forces triumphed and the demons were defeated. Shree Rama's glory bestowed immeasurable strength. Thus, O brother, the first day's battle was concluded.

Hearing that his warriors had fallen, Ravana had the mighty Kumbhakarna awakened from his deep slumber. That immensely powerful demon arose, ready to turn the tide of battle.

Kumbhakarna called out to his brother Dashakantha — Brother, take heed and save yourself! Hearing this, Kumbhakarna said — Brother, driven by the force of fate, you have committed a grave folly.

Though you were lord of the three worlds, you committed the terrible sin of abducting Sita. Now I shall not flee without fighting — I am mighty and hold enmity against none.

Death comes to all eventually — it is everyone's turn. When one turns away from Shree Rama, even Fate and Destiny become adverse. Kumbhakarna strode forth in rage, and seeing him, all the monkey chiefs were seized with terror.

Kumbhakarna arrayed himself on the battlefield and slew countless monkeys. Then Shree Rama took aim with His divine arrows and severed his arms — executing the slaying with perfect discernment.

The Lord drew His bow again and again, cutting off heads and arms with His sacred arrows. Kumbhakarna, deeply attached to his own might, kept rising and staggering despite his wounds in the terrible melee.

Shree Rama's arrows, blazing like fire, burned Kumbhakarna's body and tore it to pieces. He crashed to the earth with a tremendous tremor, and the celestial victory drums resounded with joyous acclaim.

Lord Raghunath slew Kumbhakarna. The gods and sages all bowed with folded hands. The women of Lanka cried out in anguish, and Ravana's heart was overwhelmed with grief.

Kumbhakarna was a being of great strength and noble character, devoted in fraternal love. Yet because he sided against Shree Rama, he met his end — as one sows, so does one reap.

The mighty warrior Kumbhakarna was slain, and cries echoed throughout Lanka. When Ravana heard the news of his brother's death, he was stricken with fear and his heart trembled with anguish.

Upon hearing of Kumbhakarna's death, Meghnath (Indrajit) became distraught. Seething with rage, the powerful son of Ravana made a solemn vow of vengeance.

Meghnath, the great sorcerer, waged war with such fury that he could devastate all three worlds. Then the Lord spoke solemnly to Lakshmana — Go forth to the battlefield and fight with steadfast courage.

Lakshmana proceeded to the battlefield with the valiant Hanuman at his side. He engaged Meghnath in combat, and an exceedingly fierce battle ensued.

Meghnath then resorted to sorcery — becoming invisible, he fought from concealment. He struck Lakshmana with a devastating Shakti weapon, and the invincible Lakshmana fell unconscious on the battlefield.

Shree Rama was overcome with grief, seeing Lakshmana's lifeless body. He wept bitterly in deepest sorrow. Then the Lord summoned Hanuman and commanded — Go swiftly and bring the special Sanjeevani herb.

The Son of the Wind God (Hanuman) flew through the sky and returned bearing the entire Dronagiri mountain. Lakshmana was restored to life and sat up — the joy of the entire army knew no bounds.

Lakshmana rose with renewed strength and determination, and marched out to face Meghnath once more. Placing the Lord's command upon his head, he prepared himself for the decisive encounter in the forest of battle.

Lakshmana then delivered tremendous blows. Meghnath's strength was utterly exhausted. Lakshmana drew one arrow — charged with complete power, radiance, and divine virtue.

By Lakshmana's arrow, Meghnath was slain. The gods and sages sang praises. The entire monkey army rejoiced, while in Lanka the demon dynasty wept in lamentation.

Mandodari wept profusely upon hearing the news — Meghnath's death could not be hidden from anyone. Ravana's rage blazed exceedingly fierce, yet tears filled his eyes upon learning of his son's death.

Indrajit was invincible and mighty, yet he fell to Lakshmana's arrow. Without the Lord's grace, victory is impossible — Lakshmana is the warrior-hero of the battlefield.

The monkey army raised cries of 'Victory! Victory!' All rejoiced upon meeting the heroic Lakshmana. Shree Rama embraced His younger brother to His heart, and the auspicious account of the battle-victory was told and celebrated.

Hearing of his son's death, the ten-headed Ravana now rose — tremendous and terrifying. Donning his armor and mounting his chariot, he advanced like Death personified in the age of Kali.

Ravana entered the battlefield alone, roaring like a maddened elephant. Seeing him, all the monkey chiefs trembled violently. Shree Rama stood up and readied His bow and arrows.

Shree Rama, the treasure of compassion, took His bow and arrow in hand upon the battlefield. He then advanced toward Ravana — as if the Lord of Death Himself had manifested in divine form.

Ravana and Shree Rama then clashed in battle — both mighty warriors refused to yield in the fierce combat. Arrows flew with tremendous speed and power, unceasing across earth, sky, and every direction.

A terrible and immeasurable battle raged between Ravana and Shree Rama. Arrows, shafts, javelins, and maces flew in countless numbers — yet Ravana's mind remained base and wicked.

Shree Rama's sacred arrows would cut off Ravana's heads, yet Ravana kept raising them again. As soon as one head was severed, ten more would sprout — as if countless reflections appeared of the lord of the earth.

The gods then sent a divine chariot, and Shree Rama mounted it with great joy. Seeing this, the ten-faced Ravana became fearful — his mind grew restless and agitated.

Shree Rama's arrows rained down like a blazing fire, annihilating the demon army. Ravana hurled numerous divine weapons, but Shree Rama deflected and destroyed every single one.

The gods, sages, and perfected beings all watched — the battle-play between Shree Rama and Ravana. The wondrous and immeasurable combat raged on, as if Fate itself were creating an extraordinary spectacle.

Ravana then invoked his most powerful sorcery — darkness enveloped all directions. The Lord smiled, knowing all illusions for what they were, and through His battle-play inflicted suffering upon the wicked foe.

Then Vibhishan said to Shree Rama — Strike at his navel! There lies a vessel of amrit (nectar of immortality) within his navel — only by piercing it will Ravana meet his end.

The Lord graciously set His arrow to the bow and pierced Ravana's navel, sending the shaft deep into his heart. Vibhishan's truthful words bore fruit — Shree Rama's arrow accomplished the slaying of Ravana.

By Shree Rama's arrow, Ravana was slain — he crashed to the earth with a thunderous roar. The gods, sages, perfected beings, and celestial musicians all showered flowers in celebration.

Ten heads, twenty arms — a colossal body in which an extraordinary radiance had blazed. That body, struck by Shree Raghupati's arrow, fell to the earth as if a great mountain had crumbled.

Mandodari wept and lamented, clinging to Ravana's fallen form. Hanuman, the Son of the Wind God, took her hand gently and led her, bowing his head at the Lord's sacred feet.

Mandodari wept and wailed, speaking words to the departed Ravana — O my lord, by the force of fate and karma, this has been your destiny. Sita is the beloved of Lord Raghupati alone.

Ravana's radiance merged into the Lord's divine countenance — this became known throughout all the worlds. By Shree Rama's arrow the slaying was accomplished, and all were freed from sorrow.

Blessed, blessed is the heroic Lord of the Raghus! He accomplished the divine purpose of Shree Rama's incarnation with steadfast resolve. Dharma has triumphed, adharma is destroyed — Victory, Victory, Victory to Lord Raghupati, the abode of all bliss!

Brahma, Shankara, Indra — all the gods are singing the praises of the Supreme Lord. Flowers rained from the heavens above — Victory, Victory, Victory to Hanuman!

Goddess Saraswati (Gira), Lord Shesha (Ananta), Lord Brahma, and Lord Shiva — all proclaim 'Victory, Victory to the Lord of the Universe!' Heavenly flowers were placed at His lotus feet, and hymns celebrating Shree Rama's glory resounded.

The demons were destroyed, the gods rejoiced — dharma was established in the world. Shree Rama slew Ravana and attained victory — all glory to the Supreme Lord!

The compassionate Lord then cast His gracious glance and bestowed the abode of happiness upon the guardians of the world. The gods, kinnaras, and gandharvas played celestial music — dancing and singing 'Victory! Victory!'

After Ravana's death, Vibhishan was given the kingdom of Lanka. Receiving Shree Rama's command, he became the Lord of Lanka on that very day.

Vibhishan's royal coronation was performed, and all the sages bestowed their blessings. Vibhishan was now the sovereign of Lanka, and the monkey army experienced great joy and contentment.

The Lord gave Vibhishan authority over Lanka and commanded — Rule with righteousness and justice, and protect the people with care and devotion.

Vibhishan clasped the Lord's feet and bowed again and again. Shree Rama, the treasure of compassion, counseled Vibhishan with deepest affection.

The story of Shree Rama is supremely meritorious and bliss-bestowing — Vibhishan obtained the kingdom of Lanka. Righteous conduct proceeds with honor — blessed indeed is he whom the Lord bestows the throne of Lanka.

By His grace, the Lord made Vibhishan king and filled Lanka's society with happiness. Lanka overflowed with every prosperity and joy — such was the fruit of Vibhishan's dharma and devoted service.

When refuge was given, the downtrodden found happiness, and Vibhishan became king. Without Shree Rama's grace, nothing in this world can ever bear fruit — this is a truth beyond compare.

Vibhishan, with utmost humility, clung to the Lord's sacred feet. Shree Rama spoke gentle and sweet words, bringing happiness to the entire world.

Janaki heard the news of Ravana's death and was filled with joy. Hanuman went to Mother Sita and narrated the entire story with gentle reassurance.

Sita was overwhelmed with happiness upon hearing the account. Tears streamed from her eyes as she heard the Lord's story. Clasping the lotus feet, she offered her prayers and spoke to Hanuman with deep love.

Sita was then brought to the Lord's presence. A smile graced Shree Rama's countenance. Sita touched His sacred feet, and the Lord raised her up with honor and reverence.

The Lord spoke to Sita, knowing the conventions of society and the scriptures — O Janaki, undergo the trial by fire, so the world shall acknowledge your purity beyond all doubt.

Sita then entered the sacred fire and emerged completely unscathed and purified. Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh all declared — She is the embodiment of truth; there is not a single blemish upon her.

Agni Deva appeared at that very moment and presented Sita as perfectly pure and auspicious. All the gods sang praises of the Lord — Victory, Victory to the all-pervading Lord Sita-Rama!

Sita and Shree Rama were then reunited — the entire world was filled with happiness. The gods, sages, monkeys, and bears all rejoiced; tears of bliss flowed from every eye as all attained supreme joy.

Sita is the pure and virtuous divine consort, a treasury of all noble qualities — the entire world recognized her as a sacred being. With Shree Rama's grace and the testimony of the sacred fire, Sita's virtue ensured eternal happiness.

The reunion of Shree Rama and Sita is supremely beautiful — beholding it, every heart overflows with joy. Their sacred, unbroken, and world-renowned love is the greatest treasure of bliss and prosperity.

The gods showered flowers from heaven, and all the celestials offered multifold praises. Everyone chanted 'Victory to Sita! Victory to Rama!' — worshiping with love in their hearts, now and forevermore.

Boarding the Pushpak Viman with Sita, Shree Rama departed with great joy. The entire army — monkeys and bears alike — sat aboard, filled with happiness and contentment.

In the Pushpak chariot sat Lord Raghuraja alongside Sita and Sugriva. Vibhishan, Angad, and Hanuman — the Lord, accompanied by all, set forth on the path of victory and welfare.

Seeing them arrive in Ayodhya, Bharata rushed forward and embraced them to his heart with overwhelming joy. The entire city resounded with cries of 'Victory! Victory!' as all bowed their heads at Shree Rama's lotus feet.

Bharata clasped the Lord's feet in joyous reunion. Lakshmana and Sita were honored with great reverence. Then Mother Kausalya came and met them all — universal welfare and blessing was bestowed upon everyone.

The coronation of Shree Rama took place, and the entire world raised a triumphant cheer. The city of Ayodhya was magnificently adorned — auspicious songs echoed from the break of dawn.

Sage Vasishtha performed the sacred tilak ceremony and bestowed the throne of Rama Rajya. The entire populace was filled with boundless happiness — the cry of 'Victory, Victory, Victory to Raghuveer!' resounded everywhere.

Sita, Shree Rama, and all were united — Bharata, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. Then the gracious Lord bid farewell to the monkey forces, bestowing His divine blessings upon all.

In Rama Rajya, bliss and prosperity pervaded everywhere. The three forms of suffering — physical, divine, and natural — were all destroyed. Everyone was happy, everyone's body was free of disease — by Shree Rama's glory, every mind was at peace.

Thus concludes the narrative of Lanka Kand — hearing it bestows joy and divine welfare. Those who listen with faith shall attain the supreme treasure of liberation.

The story of Shree Rama is the abode of all auspiciousness, the destroyer of Kali Yuga's impurities, and the remover of all sorrow. Those who sing and listen to it with reverence are forever under the Lord's gracious protection.