Yuddha Kand of Ramayana in Simple Language
The Yuddha Kand, or the War Section, is the sixth and most dramatic part of the Ramayana. It describes the great battle between Lord Rama and Ravana, the rescue of Sita, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Here is the story in simple language:
1. Rama’s Army Marches to Lanka
After learning about Sita’s situation in Lanka, Rama decided to rescue her. With the help of Sugriva and Hanuman, he gathered a massive army of monkeys and bears. They marched to the southern coast, where the ocean separated them from Lanka.
To cross the ocean, the monkey engineer Nal and others built a massive bridge (Ram Setu) across the sea. With divine blessings, Rama’s army crossed the bridge and reached Lanka.
2. Ravana Prepares for War
When Ravana learned of Rama’s arrival, he was enraged. He called a meeting of his ministers and advisors. While some encouraged him to return Sita, others, like his brother Kumbhakarna, advised him to fight. Ravana ignored the advice of his righteous brother Vibhishana, who urged him to make peace with Rama.
When Ravana refused, Vibhishana left Lanka and joined Rama’s side. Rama welcomed him warmly and made him the king of Lanka after Ravana’s defeat.
3. The Great War Begins
Rama’s army attacked the gates of Lanka. A fierce battle broke out between the monkey warriors and Ravana’s demon army. The battlefield was filled with the sounds of weapons, war cries, and the bravery of soldiers on both sides.
4. Valiant Warriors on Both Sides
- Indrajit, Ravana’s son, used magical powers and weapons to defeat many monkeys, including Hanuman. He even captured Rama and Lakshmana with a serpent weapon, but Garuda, the king of birds, saved them.
- Kumbhakarna, Ravana’s giant brother, fought fiercely, causing havoc in Rama’s army. However, Rama killed Kumbhakarna with his arrows.
- Hanuman, Angada, Sugriva, and other monkey warriors displayed incredible bravery.
5. The Death of Indrajit
Indrajit, who was skilled in illusions and magic, performed a special ritual to make himself invincible. However, Lakshmana, with the help of Vibhishana, interrupted the ritual and killed Indrajit in a fierce battle.
6. Rama and Ravana’s Final Battle
The final battle between Rama and Ravana was intense and lasted for days. Ravana used his might and magical powers, while Rama countered them with divine weapons and his unwavering determination.
In the end, Rama invoked the powerful Brahmastra (a divine weapon) and aimed it at Ravana’s heart. The weapon struck Ravana, killing him instantly. The demon king’s tyranny came to an end, and the world rejoiced.
7. Sita’s Trial by Fire
After the war, Rama and Sita were reunited. However, Rama asked Sita to prove her purity to the world. Sita willingly entered a fire to show her devotion and faithfulness. The fire god Agni protected her and declared her pure. Rama then accepted her with great love and respect.
8. Vibhishana Becomes King
As promised, Rama crowned Vibhishana as the king of Lanka. Vibhishana vowed to rule with justice and righteousness. Rama’s army celebrated their victory, and preparations were made for their return to Ayodhya.
9. Rama Returns to Ayodhya
Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana returned to Ayodhya in the Pushpaka Vimana, Ravana’s magical flying chariot. Their arrival marked the end of their 14-year exile. The people of Ayodhya welcomed them with joy, lighting lamps to celebrate their return. This day is celebrated as Diwali.
Conclusion
The Yuddha Kand is a powerful reminder of the victory of good over evil, courage, and righteousness. It emphasizes values like loyalty, justice, and the importance of dharma.
